When it comes to minimalism, I’m definitely no pro. In fact, I’m by all means what you would call an amateur or even beginner. Of course, there are benefits to minimizing and simplifying your lifestyle. You might already know those. If not, I’ll get to those soon enough. But I wanted to talk about this subject, even being the novice that I am, to show others that it’s not only easier than one would think, but actually pretty fun too!
And everyone has things that are easier for them to let go of too. So I start with those! That makes it easier to keep going. Start small too! Unless you’re moving and are required to complete downsize your whole home, there’s no need to overwhelm ourselves. So let’s get into it, shall we?
And as always, if video form is more your style, make sure to click the photo to watch the vlog version!
Makeup/Skincare/Haircare Products
For someone who isn’t very good at doing airbrushed looking makeup, I sure gave it my best shot. But with that attempt comes quite a bit of extras that are not only unnecessary, but don’t get used. So I decided to start there. I went through my makeup bag(s) and pulled out anything that was barely used or didn’t get used at all. And what do you know? A full ziplock bag of items that are not only a waste of money looking back, but now just sit there and take up space! Some I have to throw away for contamination reasons, but others can be given to friends, family, and others. Plus, now I have one bag that fits all my makeup and is clutter free! Obviously, the same idea can be applied to skincare and haircare products as well, which I’m currently in the pursuit of doing too!
Related: 5 Ways Giving Is Beneficial
Kitchen Stuff
The reason I say ‘stuff’ is because there’s really too much to be narrowed down into one category. Whether it’s pots and pans, utensils, dishes, appliances, you name it! Like I said, it’s easier to start with things we don’t feel like we need to hang onto (whether we actually need to or not.) We personally got rid of all of the things I mentioned except appliances. And duplicates/multiples were definitely easy for me to let go of! After accumulating different sets over the years and combining rather than scavenging, we ended up having things like 3 spatulas, 2 of the same type of pan, and over 10 travel mugs when we really only need 3 or 4. And now not only is there more space in the kitchen, things are more accessible and less cluttered!
Clothes
I know I’ve talked about clothing a bit before. And minimizing clothing is not only a great way to save space, but also some money too! I have this technique where any new clothing I get or whenever I switch between seasonal clothing, I hang them up on a hanger with a piece of twine tied around it. Then whenever I wear something for the first time and go to hang it back up, I put it on a regular hanger with no twine. Then when it’s time to switch out for the season, anything that’s still on a twine hanger get donated! This helps save me space and money because I don’t add anything new to my closet that I don’t absolutely need. Plus, it helps others because instead of hanging on to things I don’t need I can donate!
Related: 3 Ways To Reduce Plastic Use
Benefits Included!
There are definitely a lot of perks when it comes to minimizing! I’ve touched on them a bit throughout this post too. For one, when downsizing and minimizing, there’s less clutter. Period. Less chaos on counters, in cupboards, taking up wall space, etc. And less clutter means less stress! There’s even hard scientific evidence to back the idea that organizing your physical space can help clear up mental blockage. Another great perk is it can save money! Maybe not thousands of dollars worth, (or maybe depending on how much you downsize your life.) For example, when I’m out shopping, the thought of all the hangers with twine wrapped around them already hanging in my closet prevents me from making unnecessary purchases!
And last but certainly not least is it helps others. When donating, we’re giving things that would’ve otherwise not been used to someone who might really need it! Whether clothing or kitchen items or anything else, it’s simplifying your life and improving theirs. As always, thank you so very much for being a part of ETM’s community! I encourage you to join discussions, interact with Mommas and others alike, and be unapologetically yourself! Until next time, I hope I’m able to help make your life as simple as could be. (:
With all my love, Brandolyn – Earth To Momma
