I get asked questions about minimalism all the time. To make it
easier to understand, let's start with breaking a few of the common myths about minimalism:
1. You don't have to throw out everything you own. It is about not collecting excess. It's about getting rid of whatever does not bring you joy and is not needed. If you collect sports memorabilia because you enjoy it - keep it. If you collected VHS and DVDs of movies that you've seen so many times you'll never watch them again - donate them. If you wear 1/10 of your closet, throw 9/10 out by donating or giving it away.
2. Don't buy anything ever again. Well that's just ridiculous. There will come a time when you need things, or you see something that will bring you joy (not fleeting joy the moment you buy it then it sits unnoticed forever after). Buy it. Just be intentional and don't purchase things without thinking.
3. You have to count your things. Not true at all. Every person, every household, every family is different. Refer back to number 1.
4. You have to declutter your entire house in one day. Although it's been done by people like Ryan Nicodemus of The Minimalists, it's his personality to do that, but it may not be yours. Maybe you handle one room a month, maybe you slowly declutter over time. The truth is, only you can determine when the time is right and how quickly/late you will do it.
5. Minimalism is boring when it comes to decorating your home. Well, since minimalism is different for everyone, the only way it would be boring is if you chose boring things to keep or furnish your space. Many times it seems like minimalist homes are ultra modern, furnished with only black, white, and stainless steel, but others blend into a wooded or nature environment with greens and leaf or tree prints. Others take on a beach theme. It's totally up to you.
6. Minimalists want everyone else to be one too. It makes sense that if you found a good deal, saw a great movie, found a great restaurant, or found a way to reduce stress (like yoga or meditation) you would want to share that information for the benefit of others. People naturally share when something is good for or working for them. It's human nature. Many minimalists understand it's a philosophy, and it brings reduced stress and mental freedom. If it's not for you, no worries.
