In a world drowning in excess, minimalism offers a refreshing take on counterculture. By intentionally buying less, minimalists challenge the consumerist norm and prioritize intangible experiences over tangible possessions. A crucial step to minimalism? Decluttering. It’s a process that involves getting rid of items that no longer serve a purpose or spark joy.
As someone tests the waters of a minimalist lifestyle, individuals often discover a surprising number of things that can be parted with. This article talks about the top items minimalists tend to let go typically within the first year of their underconsumption journey. By understanding these common discards, we can gain valuable insights as to which unnecessary clutter often accumulates in our lives and how to begin our own path towards underconsumption.
Cheap accessories
You’d be surprised by the amount of surplus of cheap accessories cluttering your home. From promotional freebies to impulse purchases, these items might seem insignificant if you look at it individually, but collectively? It contributes to visual noise and mental clutter. By getting rid of cheap accessories, minimalists can free up physical space, reduce distractions, and cultivate a more intentional approach to acquiring possessions. After all, who needs a collection of cheap watches and other accessories, right? Might as well stick to one luxury analog watch that’ll probably last you years.
Wardrobe
Wardrobes are often the epicenter of clutter accumulation. Minimalists frequently find their closets overflowing with unworn clothing. To organize their wardrobe, many start by purging seasonal items that go out of style after a year or two. To be a true minimalist, you can always stick to classic fashion pieces that will last you years, some you can even mix and match and create more outfit combinations. Remember, it’s not about how many clothes you have, but rather how many times you can make do with it!
Unnecessary electronics and appliances
You’d be surprised by how kitchens and offices are also hotspots for electronic clutter. Minimalists usually discover a collection of unused or outdated gadgets, appliances, tangled cords, and miscellaneous plugs. To declutter these areas, a lot of minimalists tend to focus on getting rid of small appliances like juicers or bread machines that are barely even used — if not at all. Let’s face it: you don’t need “fun” kitchen appliances like a waffle maker or a 3-in-1 oven, frying pan, and coffee maker machine. If you have the basics, then you’re settled. By streamlining these things, minimalists create a cleaner, less cluttered environment while also reducing energy consumption.
Makeup and skincare
If there’s anything that has got to be overflowing in one part of your house, it’s makeup and skincare. You name it — unused makeup, expired skincare, forgotten brushes and tools! To simplify daily routines, minimalists focus on decluttering makeup and skincare items that no longer serve a purpose (or are just really waaay beyond expiration date!). By curating a smaller, more functional beauty collection, minimalists can ultimately save time, money, and reduce waste. Be a creature of habit and only purchase makeup and skincare when you’ve finally run out.
Souvenirs
Souvenirs, while they often hold sentimental value, can quickly contribute to physical and mental clutter. Minimalists frequently find themselves with a collection of trinkets from travels that no longer spark joy or serve a practical purpose. Sure, it’s a nice way to remember the things you’ve seen and the places you’ve been to, but in a year or two, you’re going to regret buying all these trinkets as they slowly take up space in your home. By consciously letting go of souvenirs that no longer resonate, individuals can create more space in their homes and minds, allowing them to focus on creating new experiences rather than clinging to the past.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, by shedding these common culprits of clutter, minimalists demonstrate that a simpler life is indeed attainable. From seemingly insignificant cheap accessories to the emotionally charged trinkets and souvenirs, this decluttering journey highlights the transformative power of letting go. So, are you ready to take your next big step towards underconsumption?
