Our twenties are the time for adventure, growth, and self-discovery. It is also the time when we start putting habits in place that we hope will have a positive impact on the future. In a world that often bombards us with consumerism and the latest trends, choosing a more minimalistic lifestyle can be a breath of fresh air. It’s about simplifying your life, focusing on what truly matters, and finding happiness in less. This blog post is not about being a minimalist. This is about creating small changes that will be impactful. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to start embracing a more minimalistic lifestyle in your 20s, making small and impactful changes.
Opt Out of Trends
Think of how often you might buy a product only to never wear it again just a few months later. In a society that constantly pushes us to chase the latest trends and thrives off of consumerism, saying no to this pressure is a huge change you can make towards a more minimalistic lifestyle.
Instead of following the crowd, define your own style. Develop a wardrobe that reflects your personal taste and makes you feel comfortable and confident. Just because a celebrity dresses a certain way, does not mean you need to as well. Invest in high-quality, durable items that you are excited to wear. They may cost a bit more upfront but will last longer, saving you money in the long run. Keep your wardrobe simple and versatile, using colors and designs that mix and match well and complement your personality. By prioritizing quality over quantity, you can avoid the cycle of constantly buying new, trendy items. Plus, you’ll find it easier to pick outfits in the morning because you know your closet is one cohesive wardrobe.
Minimalism means making conscious choices and not being swayed by the constant stream of new products and fads. Marketing campaigns are created to make us want to buy into things almost instantaneously. This applies to new technology, skincare and beauty products, and so much more. A more minimalistic lifestyle is about focusing on what truly adds value to your life and letting go of the rest. So, whether it’s fashion, technology, or lifestyle, take a step back and ask yourself if that trendy item is genuinely necessary or if it’s just a passing phase.
Try to Find Multipurpose Items
In a world where you can buy literally anything you might want, multipurpose items can be your best allies in embracing minimalism. These versatile possessions save you money, reduce clutter, and promote sustainability. When it comes to furniture, opt for pieces that serve multiple functions. A sofa that transforms into a bed or a coffee table with storage can help maximize your living space. This not only simplifies your surroundings but also enhances your overall living experience. This can be as simple as buying a pair of all weather shoes or a lip and cheek makeup product.
The kitchen is another area where you can benefit from multipurpose items. Consider investing in gadgets with multiple uses, such as a blender that can make smoothies and soups but also work as a food processor. You don’t need a product for everything, so take the time to see what you can use again. For instance, my air fryer doubles up as a toaster.
This reduces the need for various appliances and minimizes the clutter in your kitchen. The same goes for travel gear; if you’re an avid traveler, choose versatile and durable equipment. For instance, a backpack that suits both day hikes and international trips can simplify your packing and reduce the number of bags you need to lug around. Minimalism is not just about decluttering your physical space; it’s also about simplifying your life by choosing items that serve multiple purposes.
Declutter your Life
Decluttering is probably one of the most relieving tasks you can do because you will feel so much better about your space and environment.
Start by unsubscribing from unnecessary email lists. We all know how our inboxes can get cluttered with promotional emails and newsletters we never read. Streamlining your email subscriptions can help you regain control over your digital life. Organize your files and photos, and delete unused apps and unnecessary screenshots on your devices. Instead of taking a hundred pictures of the same scene, try to take the time to set up your phone for the perfect shot. A cluttered digital space can lead to feelings of overwhelm and distraction. By tidying up your digital files and applications, you can enjoy a more streamlined and efficient experience on your devices. Plus, they will probably run faster with all the extra storage space available.
Then take one space at a time, and tackle your physical environment. Donate or resell items that you want to throw out and use up those half-full products to reduce waste. Organize your closet and kitchen so everything has a place, and you no longer feel overwhelmed.
Moreover, it’s essential to practice mindful consumption in your shopping habits. Before making an online purchase, ask yourself if it’s truly necessary and whether it will add value to your life. You do not need the same shirt or sweater in five different colors. Be mindful of your shopping habits. I personally adopt a 24-48 hour rule for online shopping. If I am still thinking about an item I want to purchase after a few days have passed, I will think about buying it. Otherwise, it is forgotten and my money is saved.
A minimalistic lifestyle encourages you to be intentional about your online habits, just as you are with your physical possessions. By adopting these practices, you can declutter your digital life, reduce distractions, and enhance your overall sense of well-being.
Experiences Over Things
In a world that often emphasizes material possessions, minimalism encourages us to prioritize experiences over things. Instead of accumulating more stuff, like souvenirs, invest in travel a journal to write out your adventures. Exploring new places, immersing yourself in different cultures, and making memories can be far more fulfilling than owning more things. This can be taken a step further: every time you refrain from making an unnecessary purchase, set the money aside to save up for something you have been really, truly wanting. Maybe that is a niche designer bag or a trip to Bali.
Hobbies are another area where minimalism can make a significant impact. Invest in activities that enrich your life, whether it’s taking up a musical instrument, learning a new language, or practicing a sport. The joy of learning and growing definitely overshadows the quick jolt of happiness of getting a new product. A minimalistic lifestyle means creating experiences and memories.
Spend time with loved ones, create traditions, and cherish the moments that truly matter. These are the experiences that will enrich your life and bring lasting happiness. Minimalism is not about depriving yourself of enjoyable things; it’s about shifting your focus from material possessions to the moments and activities that truly matter.
Budgeting and Financial Wellness
Minimalism goes hand in hand with financial wellness. By simplifying your lifestyle, you can better allocate your resources. Start by creating a budget so you know where you stand in terms of money. This is an easy way to start adopting a minimalistic mindset because you will start to be more intentional about purchases.
By setting money aside for savings and investments, you will already have less money on hand to spend. You will start to make more informed decisions about your purchases, and this goes hand-in-hand with all the previous points. The impulse buys will happen less often, the money regrets will be less frequent, and you will no longer keep buying things before you actually need them.
Making informed financial decisions and adopting a minimalist approach to your finances will help your future self feel and enjoy a sense of financial well-being.
Mindfulness and Gratitude
A more minimalistic lifestyle means being grateful for what you already have and being mindful about it as well. Be present in the moment and savor the now. Mindfulness helps you be happy with what you have now and reduces the urge to go out and buy more things.
Being grateful for what you already have shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have, fostering contentment and happiness. Journaling or meditating is a great way to practice this, but the idea is to see the positive in your surroundings.
Community and Relationships
Lastly, minimalism is not just about simplifying your material possessions; it’s also about fostering meaningful connections and building a sense of community. Prioritize your relationships with friends and family. Quality relationships are essential for happiness and well-being.
Surround yourself with like-minded people who share your values and appreciate a simpler way of life. Building a supportive community can help you stay committed to minimalism and provide a network of encouragement and understanding.
Conclusion
This blog post is not about being a minimalist. It is about creating a more minimalistic lifestyle. By doing so, it allows you to focus on what truly matters, break free from consumerism, and find happiness in simplicity. Remember, minimalism is a personal journey, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Start small, make conscious choices, and enjoy the benefits of a clutter-free, intentional lifestyle. Your 20s are an ideal time to simplify, thrive, and repeat this cycle of growth and self-discovery.
With love,
Aditi <3
Aditi Rani – Figuring Out Life in Your Twenties
*Disclaimer: This is not professional advice. Some links are affiliate. By clicking and/or purchasing, I may receive a commission. It does not alter the price or change your buyer experience.