Minimalist Resolutions

Any opportunity to evaluate where we are and where we’d like to be in the future is valuable. In 2022, I’m excited to apply minimalism to my resolutions to foster more happiness and contentment in my life.

Resolution 1: I will begin the year with a “no buy.”

I have found that I have been quite “spendy” lately. I am not accumulating so many items, but I am purchasing things and returning/discarding them quickly after realizing that the purchase was a mistake. I’m tired of this burden on my wallet, time, and mind. For the first six months of 2022, I’m resolving to have a “no buy,” where my spending is significantly limited to mostly essentials and replacements. Stay tuned for a blog post on this year’s no-buy rules.

Resolution 2: I will honor my boundaries even if others do not like them.

Minimalism is about creating and enforcing boundaries. Rather than indiscriminately allowing things into our lives, like purchases, relationships, or commitments, minimalists are intentional. We may say “no” to friends, family, peers, others, and even ourselves more often than most. Some may dislike the boundaries we set. That doesn’t mean they’re wrong to have. In fact, if everyone liked our boundaries, there would be no need to create them.

This year, I will more intentionally respect my boundaries. I will also celebrate when others set theirs, even when they inconvenience or disappoint me.

Resolution 3: I will show myself compassion.

As always, I’ll remind myself that minimalists are united in their practice of self compassion, and I am no exception. I will prioritize caring and supporting myself when things get hard. With more compassion towards my flaws, I won’t feel the need to resolve my imperfections with purchases, extraneous relationships, or commitments. I believe self compassion is the way to a better 2022.