Minimalism

Minimalism is one of the approaches that is extremely helpful in today's times.

First let's understand what is minimalism. Minimalism is a type of lifestyle or philosophy that deals with living intentionally with only what adds value and purpose. In simple words we can say that minimalism means keeping what is absolutely necessary. With minimalism or minimalistic approach we can improve the way of our living by various ways.

The first step towards minimalism can be getting something that is absolutely necessary. This way we will be able to cut down unnecessary or impulse purchases. As we are not doing unnecessary purchases we will automatically cut down the wastage that occurs because of such purchases. We reduce the overconsumption because of the minimalistic lifestyle. This is one way towards contributing to sustainability.

Another advantage of minimalism is that we make thoughtful purchases. We think about making the purchase every time we do it. We ask questions such as is this worth my money? Is this something that is absolutely essential? Am I going to use it for a long term? Is this this perishable? Is this beneficial? Will it add value to my lifestyle? Can I live my life without it? When we ask such thought provoking questions to ourselves then our vision starts to become clear. We see very clearly towards what we are spending on and what we are consuming. Again this approach not only helps us saving money but it also helps us to save the environment. By thinking in this way we not only reduce the consumption but we focus on thoughtful and careful consumption.

Let me a reminder some does not mean we should not buy something that we like. It is more about giving a thoughtful justification towards each purchase and this justification needs to be provided to ourselves.

Let me share an example of my shopping habits. When I go for shopping and I like something then I ask myself a lot of questions. I seek an answer from my inner self to understand if that purchase is an essential purchase or I am only influenced by the surroundings. By asking these questions I get straight answers. This approach definitely helps me to make thoughtful purchases, reduce over consumption, and save some money as well.

Of course minimalism is not a mandate, it is a type of lifestyle that is completely optional. It is a type of lifestyle that would be easier on the pockets and environment in the long run. I am aware that nobody becomes a minimalist overnight. I am trying to live a minimalistic lifestyle for several years and even today I would not consider myself to be a minimalist. I am a minimalist in process. The level of minimalism which I aspire to achieve is something that I haven't reached as yet. But during these years I have realised that as compared with my previous lifestyle the minimalistic lifestyle is something that I can easily carry on. I am able to save money which is good for myself and I have also observed that the minimalistic habits that have a positive impact on the environment. When we see the positive aspect of our actions we definitely intend to continue it further.

This is something from my experience of how reducing the consumption has improved not only the finances and environment but also it has improved my mood and my way of organising my life. I request everyone reading this to give at least a try towards minimalism and you will be impressed with the results. Give yourself one month towards adapting to the minimalistic lifestyle and probably you to wood become like me a "minimalist in process".