Hidden Benefits of MinimALLism
Some benefits of minimalism are obvious. If you buy less stuff, you can save more money. If you declutter junk, you can keep things organized. However, there are some unexpected benefits of minimalism that have perhaps more greatly impacted me.
Minimalism has increased my gratitude
I wrote in last week’s post on my path to minimalism that before minimalism, I spent too much of my time, energy, and money on clothes. Still, I felt I didn’t have enough. And how could I? There’s literally a new trend every three months. I very clearly remember feeling sorry for myself that I couldn’t afford to keep up with every new style, even if that style didn’t suit me. I found that when I was constantly wanting to shop it was hard to appreciate what I already had.
Those thoughts feel like a world away. Now that I am shopping less and limiting how many clothes I keep, I feel so extremely grateful for what I’m able to own so far. I keep only what I feel my best in, which has boosted my confidence, so it’s even easier to feel grateful. I’m very fortunate and privileged that I have all I need.
Minimalism has made space for creative pursuits
Obviously, I wouldn’t have started this blog without minimalism. But creativity needs time and energy. Without the prioritizing that comes from minimalism (as I shared in my Keys to My Minimalism post) I wouldn’t have learned to prioritize either of these things. I may have continued accepting commitments that didn’t fulfill me or that tired me. Also, clutter is exhausting! Without the constant need to organize, or just the frustration of looking at mess, I feel FREE. Not only do I have the inspiration to blog, but also the time and energy required.
Minimalism has improved my relationships
Gratitude is contagious. When you are grateful for one thing, it’s easier to feel grateful for other things. The same is true for my friends and partner. My gratitude for the things I use spreads to gratitude for the people I love. It also feels amazing to commit to creative pursuits that are supported by those I value and admire most. This isn’t to say that without minimalism, I wouldn’t have appreciation for and support from my relationships. But I do think that minimalism has helped me deepen these relationships.
In conclusion
As I continue to practice minimalism in my daily life, I look forward to experiencing new benefits and seeing how these benefits intensify. Please share with me the benefits you’ve experienced from choosing to let go or own less. I’d love to hear!