When people hear the word minimalist, many people imagine someone who lives in an almost empty space, no color, no personality, just "less of everything." I used to think that way too. But my understanding of minimalism changed the moment I realized it wasn't about removing joy from my life, but about removing noise.
A minimalist is someone who intentionally chooses, over having excess. It's a person who keeps what adds value, whether that's possessions, relationships, routines, or thoughts, and gently lets go of what no longer serves them. Minimalism is not deprivation; it's “clarity.”
For me, minimalism came at a season in my life when I was feeling utterly overwhelmed. To the world, I was accomplishing much, school responsibilities, writing, leading, serving in church, but inside, I was scattered. I filled my days up with stuff yet was always exhausted. Somewhere along the line, I realized I was carrying too many things that demanded my attention but gave me nothing in return.
Minimalism impacted my life in that I learned how to pause.
I started to simplify my life in small ways. I cut back on distractions in regards to my phone. I was more mindful with how I spent my time. I stopped committing to too much and learned to recognize that “no” was not a symptom of laziness or pride, but rather an expression of self-respect. As I eliminated these things, I was surprised to find that I was able to be present in those things I was passionate about.
But the most fundamental change occurred within myself. My mind became quieter. Now I made decisions based on purpose rather than pressure. Now I didn’t feel guilty about resting or gauging my worth in comparison to my activities.
A simplified lifestyle led me back to a place of peace, and that peace led me to growth.
If I had any nuggets of wisdom for someone who is just setting out on a minimalist path in life, it would be: start where you are, and start gently.
You don’t have to start over completely or change your whole life at once. Start with a drawer, a habit, a boundary. Ask yourself tough questions like: Does it have value in my life? Is it where I am going? If it is not, it is time for it to go away.
In addition, always remember this fact, your minimalist lifestyle does not have to resemble anyone else's. This is a fact that proves that minimalism is a personal lifestyle choice.
“Minimalism didn’t give me less life; it gave me space to live better. And that, to me, is the true beauty of choosing less over excess.”