Key Tenets of Minimalism to Help You Live Sustainably
Minimalism has gotten a lot of press since Marie Kondo came onto the scene, and for good reason. It reduces stress, saves money, makes more time for what’s important and treads lightly on the planet. A minimalist lifestyle leads to greater sustainability by default, as buying fewer things means less waste. However, getting into the “less is more” groove isn't always easy in a consumer-driven culture, where ads for the latest and greatest doodad fill every airwave and billboard. You need guiding affirmations to serve as your light. Here are six key tenets of minimalism to help you live sustainably.
1. Trade Trendsetting for Timelessness
Are you still struggling to keep up with the Kardashians? If so, you might have a closet full of clothes that make you wonder, “What on earth was I thinking?”
Buying quality matters. For one, high quality items last longer, and things that take time to get to the landfill are more sustainable. Furthermore, some items appreciate with time, netting you a tidy profit. For example, some Rolex watches, once valued at $10,000, now sell for $70,000 or more.
2. Remember, What You Own, Owns You
Do you own a vacation home? Hopefully, you can pay for security and a second set of utilities. That boat you use one month out of the year costs slip fees year-round, and even having too many clothes in your closet makes getting ready for work a stressful exercise in decision-making.
What you own also owns you — it takes your time and money to maintain. It also takes an environmental toll, making your lifestyle less sustainable. Before you add anything new, consider what you give up in exchange and whether it’s worth it.
3. Treat Money Like a Tool
One of the key tenets of minimalism is to stop wasting time worshiping money. The green stuff comes and goes, but you can never reclaim the few precious minutes of life you have here on Earth. While we need money to buy life’s necessities, like food, shelter and clothing, more money doesn’t always mean more happiness. Focus your spending on the things you need and the things that actually bring you joy. Buyer’s remorse not only leads to wasted money, but also overconsumption and overcrowded landfills.
4. Consciously Prioritize Your Life
What matters the most to you in life? How much time do you spend on it? A key tenet of minimalism is consciously prioritizing your life — then dedicating your time, money and energy to what matters most. The 9-5 work schedule many people follow doesn’t always allow for pursuing your true passions in life. However, you can still take measures to find meaning in everyday life.
If you value environmentalism but feel like you don’t have time to make a bigger difference, find small ways to contribute. Walk or take public transportation to work. Use plastic-free supplies at the office. Donate money, when you can, to causes that matter to you.
5. Live Each Day With Intention
Do you form an intention each morning when you wake, or do you drift through each day doing what you’re told, letting the waves of life carry you from one hour to the next?
One of the driving forces behind the minimalist movement is the reality that life is only a short ride — so use it to do what matters. Live each day with intention and let it guide your actions. For example, if you dream of owning a sustainable farm someday, maybe spend this weekend learning to ferment seeds or studying no-till farming techniques.
6. Treasure Relationships and Experiences More Than Stuff
Material things can’t hold you when you cry. They won’t celebrate special milestones with you, take care of you when you get sick or give you anything positive to reflect on when you reach your deathbed.
Therefore, this last key tenet of minimalism is to treasure your relationships and experiences more than material stuff. The world will always be full of trinkets, but there is only one you. Your partner, child and best friend matter more than things. Best of all, spending time and sharing experiences with the people you love doesn’t harm the planet.
Making the Most of Minimalism
Minimalism is a sustainable way of life, as reducing consumption is the best way to decrease your footprint. However, sticking to your guns in a consumerist society can be hard. Meditate on the key tenets of minimalism to renew your commitment to a greener lifestyle.
