Minimalism

What comes to mind when you hear the word minimalism?

Minimalism is often thought of as the amount of stuff one does or doesn’t possess, but it goes beyond material possessions.

Minimalism is the outward expression to own less, but it’s much more than that.

The way I’ve come to define minimalism is by constantly asking myself the question, “Does this item, activity, relationship, or opportunity bring me value in my life right now?”

With that question in mind, as I write this post, I’ve listed a few things in my life that bring me value, focusing on what I already have rather than what I’m lacking.

Items
Books: I value reading a good book in a plush sofa chair in a quiet library or while swinging slowly in a hammock at the park. Some of my favorite books are The Hobbit, Alchemist, Harry Potter, Ready Player One, Calvin and Hobbs, and Into the Wild.
Black Betty: I value driving my car Black Betty, and yes she was named after the popular song of the same name by Ram Jam. I value my car not because of what color she is or how fast she goes, but because of the memories created with her. I’ve been all over the East Coast, across the Midwest, and up into Canada in my car. Currently, all I own is also sitting in my car, so it’s extra special!

Activities
Climbing: I absolutely value rock climbing, it is invigorating, challenging, and frightening all at the same time. Rock Climbing is often described by enthusiasts as ‘moving meditation’.
Chess: I value a good game of chess, or any board game for that matter, which help with critical thinking, problem-solving, and patience.
Meditation: I deeply value my daily morning meditation. It allows my mind, body, and emotions to reset. Meditation also allows me to see my thoughts and actions not as good or bad, right or wrong, but simply as they are, and in the process, let them go with much more ease.

Relationships
Family: I value my parents, brother, and extended family who have always supported me no matter what path I choose in life, and whom I am eternally grateful for.
Friends: I greatly value friendship, and seek out new friends everywhere I go. It is said there is no equal gift to a good friend. My closest friends constantly remind me how blessed I am to have them in my life.

Opportunities
Travel: I greatly value the incredible opportunity to travel this vast, dynamic planet, visiting friends, meeting strangers, and getting comfortably uncomfortable.
Writing: I visibly value this blog, the journaling I do each day, and the physical and mental ability to express my thoughts and ideas in a clear, concise manner.
Exercise: I value the opportunity to work out each day in good health and high spirits, whether it be a short walk around the neighborhood or a HIIT workout.

I encourage you to try this list yourself. I think that you’ll find it very helpful in defining your values while finding gratitude along the way.

As you might have guessed, yes I’m a minimalist, and the process of becoming a minimalist has not been an easy one, but not because it was hard to give stuff away.

Most of the difficulty took place in my mind, being honest with myself about what I think I need and what I actually need.

1st: Ask yourself (and be brutally honest), “Is there stuff getting in the way of what is important in my life right now, friends, family, work, health, etc.?”

2nd: If stuff is getting in the way, try doing the 30-Day Minimalist Game. Grab a few friends and a calendar, then go through each day together, get rid of 1 item on the first day, 2 items on the second day, and so on and so forth. Whoever makes it furthest gets a prize (something small), like a pack of ramen, a hammerhead shark, or a left diamond earring.

3rd: Keep a medium-sized box in your room and continually ask yourself, “Do I value this item and does it bring me joy.”
If the answer is yes, then keep it!
If the answer is no, then semi-aggressively throw it in the medium-sized box!

4th: By now you have a pretty good grasp on minimalism when it comes to your stuff. Now apply the same idea to activities, relationships, and opportunities.

And Wallah! You’re now a minimalist! Over time, the concept becomes a reality, and the reality becomes far too fantastic to give up.

Minimalism is about a life filled with less of what we don’t value. And over time, this lends way to a life of more space, time, energy, and, yes, value.

More reading on Minimalism

1. What is minimalism anyway?
2. Everything you own can fit inside a 40L backpack.
3. Famous minimalists?
4. A film about Minimalism in the modern age?

Thank you for your time and attention in reading this post. It is a rare gift. Feel free to leave a comment or share this post. You can also buy me a coffee if you feel so inclined!