For those new to Simply+ Fiercely, welcome! Jennifer is my name. I have been living a minimal lifestyle for more than a decade. It’s been quite a big shift for me, a former workaholic and shopaholic.
Is minimalism the right choice for everyone? Are there any downsides to minimalism?
Although my experience was overwhelmingly positive, I believe in offering a balanced view. So, my honest answer to the question is…maybe. It all depends on how you approach things. Continue reading to find out more.
What are the Downsides of Minimalism?
Let’s first summarize the most common criticisms against minimalism.
- Minimalism in is an elitist — you have to spend a lot of money “live with less”.
- Minimalism harms the environment – Things that don’t “bring joy to the world” end up in landfills
- Minimalism hurts the economy – if people stop buying goods, the economy will suffer
- Minimalism means boring – minimalists don’t have any ambition and live in boring homes.
Do you think there is any truth in this statement? Possibly. Let’s take a look at each one separately.
Minimalism is it elitist?
Minimalists believe that minimalism means living with as little as possible. They believe that it is best to not keep things “just in case”, as you can always go down to the shops and buy them later.
Personallly, I believe that those who truly believe this are a small number of minimalists. However, this view of minimalism can be very exclusive. This level of financial security is not possible for everyone. Many people must balance their desire to have less and the practicalities of having to pay bills and a budget.
Here’s the truth: Minimalism doesn’t mean living with as much as possible.
My minimalist philosophy is all about alignment. It’s about finding the sweet spot between too much and not enough. This line of sand will be different for everyone.
Peter Walsh said that clutter isn’t just stuff on the ground. It’s everything that stops you from living the life you desire. Let’s look at how this applies to our lives.
It’s not clutter to buy laundry detergent bulk, even if it’s on sale. I love saving money and having clean clothes. A closet full of clothes I don’t wear is clutter, on the other hand. I feel guilty every time I see them (even though I may one day wear them).
This is what feels right to me. However, you can be sure that I will keep my favorite jeans even if I gain some weight. Jeans are very expensive so I’m going to keep them for a while.
This is to say that minimalism doesn’t make me feel elitist if you believe that “how much” should be personal. It’s not about judging others based on what they have. It’s more about looking within and asking “What feels right?”
Are minimalism and the environment harmful?
Minimalism can be harmful to the environment if it is not done with a heartfelt approach.
It’s simple to throw something in a bag and drop it at Goodwill. Then, you can clean your hands. Once your home is clutter-free, you can declutter another room the next time you need it. You’re fine as long as you stick to the “one in, two out” rule.
It’s not true. This kind of minimalism isn’t good for the earth, and it’s not good for you.
Why? You won’t see the true benefits of minimalism if your life is dominated by shopping and decluttering. While you might have less stuff, do you have more energy, time, and money? It’s probably not.
I use a new approach to minimalism, and decluttering. While getting rid of clutter is a part of minimalism, what you learn is more important.
- From where does your clutter come?
- What were your beliefs and thoughts that allowed these things to enter your home?
- Why is it so difficult to let go?
These questions can help you be a more mindful consumer by making decluttering a part. You’ll spend less in the future, which is good for the environment.
And, by the way: I don’t think buying things is bad, but you should be careful about what you buy.
What is the economic impact of minimalism?
What happens to the economy if we buy less stuff?
This is a common misconception. For some, the two lifestyles can go hand in hand. However, minimalism doesn’t always mean spending less.
Trust me, I am doing my part in keeping the economy healthy and alive. I am a big spender on travel, experiences, and food. These industries are important and have been hard hit in recent years.
Although I am not an economist, I do not know what the consequences would be if everyone decided that should be minimalist . However, it is safe to say we are not there yet. Target will be there if I am more responsible with my spending.
Individuals and families who are trapped in a sea filled with too many responsibilities and too much stuff, and struggling for air, are my main concern.
Is minimalism boring or not?
Minimalists are very popular right now. People are drawn to minimalism because it is simple and appealing. It is calm and soothing.
It is boring for some people. Probably. I am sure that everyone finds boring things.
Let’s not forget that minimalism is something I write about and live every day. There are no rules. You can love colors and be passionate. Whatever you desire out of life, there are no restrictions.
Minimalism doesn’t mean living a boring lifestyle. Minimalism is about getting rid of boring things (aka clutter), so you can have space for wonder, magic, and all the other wonderful things that make your life feel alive.
So nope. To me, minimalism isn’t boring. Minimalism is the key to a fulfilling and rich life.
