In 2022, I stumbled upon a Netflix documentary that stopped me in my tracks: “The Minimalists: Less Is Now.” Directed by Matt D’Avella, the film follows Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus (better known as The Minimalists) as they showcase how simplifying life by letting go of excess can lead to greater happiness and freedom. Their message? “Love people, use things. The opposite never works.”
It was a revelation! Inspired, I fell into a rabbit hole – reading their book, binge-watching related YouTube videos, and dreaming of my own clutter-free, minimalist haven. I thought, “This is it! A simple, beautiful life is within reach!”
Reality, of course, had other plans.
Growing up in a poor family, I often longed for the beautiful things we couldn’t afford. When I moved to Germany in 2019, my son and I arrived with just two large suitcases and two medium boxes. Looking back, that was the perfect minimalist starting point. But settling into our new home, I discovered the sheer joy of buying – something I could finally afford. Clothes, shoes, jewelry, plants, home décor – you name it, I bought it. Because why not?
It wasn’t long before I realised I was accumulating way too much stuff. My desire for minimalism collided head-on with my love for “pretty things,” leaving me wondering if I’d ever achieve that serene, minimalist lifestyle I’d seen online.
I decided to start where many minimalists do: my wardrobe. Enter the KonMari Method™, a decluttering system created by Marie Kondo that asks you to sort items by category (not location) and keep only what “sparks joy.” Easy enough, right? Wrong.
At first, everything sparked joy! That dress I never wore? Joy. That outdated jacket? Joy. But as I began thinking critically, I slimmed down my wardrobe to just a few key colours: black, white, and green, my personal favourite. Now, my closet feels lighter, and decision-making in the morning is a breeze.
No capsule wardrobe yet (still working on it!), but I’ve learned to appreciate the simplicity of owning fewer clothes (do not ask how many?!). It’s a small step, but an important one.
My next battleground was the kitchen. I embraced the FIFO method (First In, First Out) for groceries, ensuring older items get used before I buy new ones. My pantry is now organised, and food waste has significantly reduced. The same rule applies to toiletries, skincare, and other household essentials: finish what I have before buying more.
Still, I’m far from perfect. I’ve developed a new fascination with health-oriented lifestyles, like using doTERRA essential oils. I just can’t get enough of them! Every time I buy something extra – be it another doTERRA oil, a health gadget, or something “just for that special occasion” – my husband or son chimes in, “Thought you were a minimalist?” Cue the guilty laughter (and maybe a little eye-rolling). These moments remind me that minimalism isn’t about rigid perfection but finding balance and learning to make mindful choices. Whether it’s sticking to the essentials or allowing space for things that genuinely spark joy (or help my health), the journey is ongoing.
Why Minimalism Works for Me (Despite the Setbacks)
Even with these challenges, I’ve noticed profound benefits from my minimalist journey:
1. Simpler decisions. With fewer choices, my mornings feel less stressful. I grab a black, white, or green outfit and go – no second-guessing.
2. Less clutter, more clarity. A tidy home brings peace of mind and allows us to focus on what truly matters, like family and self-care. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, I’ve created a system where each Saturday is dedicated to cleaning a specific area: kitchen, bathroom, living room and hallway, bedroom, and plant care on the fifth Saturday, if there is one.
The best part? My husband and son are involved too, with designated chores for everyone. This keeps our home organised and prevents big cleaning sessions, helping us stay on top of things and maintain a tidy home all month long.
3. More intentionality. Minimalism isn’t about deprivation; it’s about choosing items and experiences that truly bring value to your life.
Here’s where I still struggle: How do I balance minimalism with the occasional indulgence? I know minimalism isn’t about owning nothing – it’s about owning the right things. But sometimes I feel like a fraud when I bring home that beautiful new vase or an extra plant. What’s the line between treating yourself and slipping back into clutter?
And let’s be real – does anyone else feel judged by family members when you don’t perfectly “live your values”?
My Minimalist Tips for Beginners
If you’re thinking about embracing minimalism, here’s what I’ve learned so far:
1. Start small. Don’t try to overhaul your entire life overnight. Begin with one category, like clothes or your pantry.
2. Define your version of minimalism. There’s no one-size-fits-all. If something genuinely brings you joy and serves a purpose, keep it.
3. Adopt the FIFO method. Use what you have before buying more. It’s a game-changer for food, toiletries, and beyond.
4. Let go of perfection. Minimalism is a journey, not a destination. It’s okay to have setbacks or treat yourself once in a while.
What do you think about minimalism? For the last two years, I’ve been exploring this lifestyle, and while it’s been transformative, it hasn’t been without its challenges. Have you tried it, or are you curious to start? What tips or advice would you give to someone who’s still learning to let go? And, be honest – do you also get side-eyes from family members when you splurge on something new? Share your thoughts below. Let’s figure this out together, one decluttered drawer at a time.