Those who live in the United States have a very high standard of living, but rank relatively low when it comes to satisfaction. Compared to most other countries, we have larger homes, higher rates of vehicle ownership, and possess more television sets. But obviously, there’s more to life than owning things.
More individuals are turning to a minimalist lifestyle. They find it to be a more satisfying way to live. Minimalism doesn’t require that you live in a cave and sleep on the ground. You simply purge your life of items and commitments until you’ve reduced your distractions to an optimal level.
There are numerous benefits to a minimalist lifestyle:
1. Fewer possessions equal more freedom. Our society creates an unhealthy desire to accumulate as much “stuff” as possible. It’s almost like a competition. But limiting our appointments and commitments has many advantages.
· You’ll experience a greater sense of freedom when you free your life of debt and clutter.
2. Time available for hobbies and other meaningful activities. You’ll have a lot more free time. There’s less time spent running around shopping, watching TV, and maintaining all of your possessions. You can finally write that book, enjoy nature, or spend time with your family.
3. More meaningful work. Instead of salary being a primary concern, you’ll find far more employment opportunities that you’d enjoy.
· Fewer bills and expenses will make it much easier to find a job that you love. Waking up each day and looking forward to work is priceless!
4. Opportunities to be creative. You’ll have the space and the time to indulge your creative capabilities. And you’ll need them from time to time. When you don’t own every appliance and tool under the sun, you’ll find new ways to make use of what’s available to you.
5. Less to clean and maintain. Few of us enjoy cleaning and maintaining homes and cars. With less furniture, fewer cars, and a smaller home, you can spend less time cleaning and maintaining your possessions. What would you do with all that free time?
6. Requiring less money to live. A smaller home, less expensive car, and fewer items equals lower living expenses.
· Your household budget can drop significantly by adopting a minimalist lifestyle. You can have more money to spend on trips and activities that result in lifelong memories.
7. Having more space. It’s not just more physical space you’ll enjoy in your home. There’s greater mental and emotional space, too. Room to breathe creates room to live fully.
8. A less stressful lifestyle. Lower living expenses, more free time, and a more meaningful life all result in less stress. You can get more sleep and spend more time on enjoyable activities. You won’t need to compare yourself to the Joneses. That’s certainly a less stressful way to live.
9. Minimalism is better for the environment. The amount of trash the average person accumulates each year is incredible. Less consumption results in utilizing fewer resources. You’re leaving more for others and generating less waste.
10. Gain more confidence. Being able to extract yourself from the rat race and becoming more self-reliant will boost your confidence.
Are you working too hard to enjoy your life or do you feel frustrated by all the clutter underfoot? A minimalist lifestyle might be the solution. Think about what it would be like to eliminate a few possessions and commitments that are more grief than they’re worth.