Transitioning Into A Minimalist Lifestyle

Growing up in Southern California has a certain lifestyle. The lifestyle of being a socialite, a shopaholic, and really trying to Keep Up with the Kardashians. I wish I knew back then what I know now.

Don’t get me wrong, life is fun and the people are great. I was very much into always stopping by the the mall to shop for clothes, accessories, home goods. However, that became a bad habit. I didn’t NEED to buy anything. I had clothes that I haven’t worn in months and some with price tags still on them. I had an array of styles that anyone would be able to find something they liked. I had home decor that I would be over having after a few months and always trying to find something to add or replace.

Here are some tips that I found while taking this journey.

Absorb Your Material Life: Sit in a space and take a look around. Take notice of any clutter, items that’s been unused, or even collected dust. Think to yourself and ask yourself, When I have I used/worn that? Do I still like it?

Let Go: Next is to start purging. I recommend getting a few medium sized moving boxes so you are more likely to get rid of it. Take the challenge of going room by room, day by day and putting items in the box that fit the negative responses to your questions. Donate to friends, family, coworkers or Good Will.

Change Your Buying Habits: This was and still kind of is, the most difficult task for me. Ask yourself do I need this? Do I LOVE this? Do I already have this? When I shop for clothes, my rule is if you don’t LOVE it, don’t buy it. I even ask myself, will this item change my life?

I believe this transition will ease my mind and simplify my life. I’ve come to realize I want to be able to travel more and essentially have more funds to do so. I decided that minimalism is the best option. I gave away 80% of my clothes and donated home decor that I didn’t care for. I’m left with a good amount of clothes, a sofa, dining table, bed and computer desk. Even with all that I have left, I still want to keep purging items I have.

What are your thoughts on this type of lifestyle?