There is a freedom that comes from having less that isn’t believed until it’s experienced. There is momentum growing around the minimalism movement and it’s exciting to be a part of it. It used to be that if you wanted to live the simple lifestyle, you’d buy a plot of land to live remotely and enjoy a slower pace of life. A simpler life certainly is very appealing, but moving out of the city isn’t for everyone.
Is it possible to work a corporate job, have a modern day family and yet still embrace minimalism? There certainly are a lot of advantages to tempt you …
But first, what is minimalism?
I love the definition given by Joshua Field Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus – I met them last year and they speak with clarity around the story of minimalism.
“Minimalism is a tool that can assist you in finding freedom. Freedom from fear. Freedom from worry. Freedom from overwhelm. Freedom from guilt. Freedom from depression. Freedom from the trappings of the consumer culture that we’ve built our lives around. Real freedom.
Minimalism is a lifestyle that helps people question what things add value to their lives. By clearing the clutter from life’s path, we can all make room for the most important aspects of life: health, relationships, passion, growth and contribution.”
The media send us mixed messages around minimalism. You’ll see an advert where a couple relax on the beach with no one around them – they look so peaceful. But the ad will be for something that a company wants you to buy. They tempt us with one lifestyle then try to sell us something completely different. We’re sold the story that road trips, weekends away and beach getaways are all within our reach, then we’re bombarded with advertising for more and better. More stuff, better stuff, upgrades – all of which lead in the opposite direction to a simple life.
Living with less is like giving yourself permission to be grateful for what you have. I find that when I have less clutter around me, I have an increased sense of gratitude. Mindfulness and gratitude are two of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves and our families. Minimalism at its core is a move towards these two values.
Enjoy the Freedom!
Amy x
If you need some help clearing the clutter and moving toward minimalism in your life, a declutter session is your first step in the right direction. To book, click here