Recently, I watched the Netflix documentaries The Minimalists and Minimalism.
The films follow Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus as they move toward lives of minimalism.
Both documentaries are great and I would recommend watching.
Here, I want to focus on a quote in the film that really struck me:
“If we always want more, we will never have enough.” – Joshua Fields Millburn
This seems like a simple statement, but it’s difficult to address.
Many have grown up with a “more” mindset.
More promotions.
More money.
More things.
At some point, the more can be overwhelming.
Too much work.
Too much stuff.
Not enough enjoyment.
My Story
Each year I choose a “word of the year” to guide me.
The word this year is ALLOW.
I have several statements using the word that are guiding my behavior.
One is “Allow what I have to be enough”.
Of all my statements, this one has had the most significant impact.
Before making a purchase I now check to see if I already own something that will work.
I also think about is this something I want or something I need.
If it’s a want….why do I want it?
Applying this approach has worked.
My purchases are down significantly.
My appreciation for what I do choose to buy is higher.
What I bring into our home now brings me joy.
Less stuff = more space.
More space in my mind, my environment, and my life.
Your Turn
Have you applied a minimalist approach in your life?
How would your purchase decisions change if you allow what you have to be enough?
Is there a category where you over purchase that you could pull back on?