16 Minimalist Principles Worth Trying
Disclosure: Simple Is More and our authors do not receive a commission through recommended links in this content. We do not have any conflicts of interest to disclose. Please visit our editorial policy, disclaimer policy, and terms of use for more information.
Minimalism is not just about owning fewer possessions and having a cold white house…it’s about prioritizing value, reducing stress, and finding freedom from the relentless pursuit of material goods.
While adopting a minimalist lifestyle isn’t for everyone, a few minimalist principles can benefit everyone.
These principles are about simplifying life, reducing stress, and focusing on what truly matters to save time, money, and joy. Here are 16 minimalist rules designed to promote simplicity, intentionality, and mindfulness for anyone.
What Is Minimalism?
Minimalism is a lifestyle and philosophy that emphasizes simplicity and focuses on what is essential. It’s about living with less, but it’s more than just a decluttering practice or an aesthetic choice.
It challenges thinking about possessions, time, and priorities and encourages a shift from consumerism toward a more intentional way of living. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Individual differences, lifestyle, circumstances, and cultural differences need to be considered.
1. Declutter Regularly
Minimalisms limit their possessions to what they need and actually use. However, everyone can benefit from regularly decluttering. So, go ahead and look at what you have. Let go of anything that doesn’t serve a purpose or bring you joy.
2. Quality Over Quantity
Minimalists aren’t anti-consumers. They just buy less and only what they want. When they buy something, they focus on quality rather than quantity.
Try investing in fewer but better-quality items that last longer and provide more satisfaction.
3. Limit Digital Distractions
Minimalism is more concerned with focused quality time…rather than going through the motions. Everyone can set screen time and social media boundaries to reclaim their time and focus.
4. Practice Mindful Consumption
Minimalists are mindful of their purchases and make informed decisions before making purchases. So, before making a purchase, consider if it’s necessary and aligns with your values.
Try the one-in-one-out rule to prevent clutter. For every item you purchase and bring into the house, something has to leave.
5. Embrace White Space
In minimalism and design, “white space” refers to the unoccupied areas in a physical space, design composition, or schedule. The metaphorical concept represents any area free from clutter, noise, and unnecessary distractions. It emphasizes the power of simplicity and the intentional absence of excess.
Take the time to allow for empty space in your home and schedule for a clearer mind and environment.
6. Simplify Your Wardrobe
and Depositphotos
How often do you have a closet full of stuff with nothing to wear? This isn’t a problem for minimalists.
Minimalists have a simple wardrobe with a few staple items. Try designing a capsule wardrobe with versatile pieces you love and wear regularly.
7. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
IgorVetushko and Depositphotos
While minimalism isn’t necessarily about going green, its practices can significantly contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. By adopting minimalist principles, you’ll naturally make more environmentally friendly choices to minimize waste and energy consumption.
8. Cultivate Mindfulness
It’s easy to find that time passes too quickly. And who hasn’t driven to work and can’t remember the drive? To stay present and grounded, try incorporating minimalist practices such as mindfulness, meditation, or journaling into your daily routine.
9. Set Clear Goals
Minimalists want a life of purpose. So, take this rule, define what is most important to you, and set your goals around these priorities.
10. Limit Multi-Tasking
There’s really no such thing as multi-tasking, and minimalists know this. Be mindful of your actions and focus on one task at a time for greater efficiency and less stress.
11. Embrace Experiences Over Things
Minimalists aren’t concerned with buying more stuff, and neither should you be.
Prioritize spending on experiences that create lasting memories over accumulating material goods.
12. Create Efficient Systems
Organize your living and working spaces to streamline daily routines and reduce time wasted on decisions. This minimalist rule emphasizes the importance of streamlining daily tasks and organizing your environment for optimal functionality and ease. It advocates for establishing simple, repeatable processes in both personal and professional life, reducing wasted time and mental clutter.
13. Practice Gratitude
Minimalists shift the focus from what they lack to appreciating what they already have. This rule creates a mindset of abundance and satisfaction to counter the constant desire for more that drives consumerism and clutter.
Everyone can benefit from practicing gratitude as it encourages contentment, reduces the urge for unnecessary acquisitions, and enhances overall well-being. By recognizing and valuing the simplicity, beauty, and utility in our current possessions and life circumstances, you’ll pave the way for a more joyful, fulfilled, and minimalist lifestyle.
Regularly reflect on and appreciate what you have rather than focusing on what you lack.
14. Simplify Your Finances
Simplify your finances is a minimalist rule that focuses on creating a more manageable and stress-free financial life by reducing unnecessary expenses and complexities. This approach encourages you to declutter your financial obligations, such as recurring subscriptions or services that do not add significant value, and to streamline your spending habits to focus on what truly matters to your well-being and long-term goals.
Everyone can benefit from increased financial clarity, less anxiety around money matters, and the ability to allocate resources more effectively towards savings, investments, and meaningful experiences.
15. Invest in Relationships
Minimalists find value in relationships. This principle can benefit everyone.
Focus on nurturing deep, meaningful relationships rather than spreading yourself too thin across many acquaintances.
16. Live Intentionally
Minimalism focuses on intentionality and mindfulness. So, make choices that reflect your values and aspirations rather than living on autopilot or according to societal expectations.
Featured Image Credit: pink panda and Shutterstock.
Theresa is the founder and owner of Simple Is More from Beavercreek, Ohio. She is a nationally syndicated writer whose work has been featured on the Associated Press Wire, Blox Digital, and more. With a passion for words and a love for simplicity, Theresa has built a reputation as a trusted source on minimalism, home organization, budgeting, travel, and wellness. When she's not writing or tidying up, Theresa loves to explore new places, read a good book, and spend quality time with her family.