Living with Less: What Minimalism is and 5 Things it isn’t
My minimalist living room, a few destroyed sofas ago.
My husband and I became minimalists about 15 years ago. We sold or gave away fifty percent of what we owned. Things creep back in from time to time, especially during seasons where we are in survival mode. But for the most part we enjoy the simplicity and calm of a less cluttered space.
Minimalism is often misunderstood. When we hear the word “minimalist,” we might picture sparse, pristine white walls, bare furniture, and a lifestyle void of warmth or personal touch. But minimalism, at its core, is not about strict rules or empty spaces. It’s about intentional living—removing the excess and distractions that prevent us from truly focusing on what matters most. It’s a mindset that encourages conscious choices, and ultimately, creating space for what brings us joy, peace, and purpose.
But minimalism isn’t always as it’s portrayed. It’s not a one-size-fits-all way of living. Here are 5 things minimalism isn’t:
1. Minimalism Isn’t Just White Walls and Furnishings
Minimalism isn’t about empty rooms and stark white spaces. It’s not about adhering to a single aesthetic. I have six kids in 1,600 square feet, so the most neutral I dare to go is grey. Minimalism is about embracing simplicity, but it’s also about functionality. It’s about finding a style that feels personal and purposeful in your own home. Your version of minimalism may look completely different from mine, and that’s perfectly fine. Minimalism isn’t about achieving a specific look—it’s about creating a space that supports your needs and lifestyle.
2. Minimalism Isn’t an Always-Clean House
Oh boy, do I kow this one. While minimalism certainly means having less clutter and fewer things to manage, it doesn’t guarantee a spotless, always-tidy home. Sure, with fewer possessions there’s less to dust or organize, but life still happens. I live with my family of eight, which means there will always be things to clean up, laundry to do, and paper clutter accumulating. Minimalism doesn’t require perfection or constant cleanliness. It’s about removing excess and focusing on creating an environment that feels peaceful and functional most of the time.
3. Minimalism Isn’t Lacking What You Need
One of the biggest misconceptions about minimalism is that it’s about depriving yourself. It’s not about denying your needs or removing everything that brings you joy. Minimalism is about curating what you own so that every item has a purpose and serves you in a meaningful way. It’s about getting rid of excess things that don’t add value to your life. This could mean keeping a few favorite books that inspire you, rather than dozens that you never read, or keeping only the kitchen tools that you actually use rather than having a collection of gadgets gathering dust. The goal is to have a home full of things that enhance your life, not things that are simply taking up space.
4. Minimalism Isn’t a Trend
Minimalism is not just another passing fad. It’s not about jumping on the latest lifestyle craze for the sake of looking trendy. True minimalism is about digging deep and reflecting on what really matters to you, what truly serves your life and makes you feel fulfilled. It's not about showing off how little you have but rather curating a life filled with meaning, intention, and purpose.
5. Minimalism Isn’t A Standard You Reach
You don’t achieve minimalism by creating a perfectly curated, flawless life or home. Instead, minimalism is a posture towards life and home, a lens through which we choose to see our belongings, our time, and our resources. It doesn’t mean that everything will always be in its place or that you will never struggle with clutter. Life isn’t perfect, and that’s okay. Minimalism is about finding balance, being mindful of the things you bring into your space, and letting go of what no longer serves you. It’s a continuous process of refining your life, not a destination of flawlessness. Minimalism allows room for imperfection, messiness, and growth. It’s about progress, not perfection.
Minimalism is a Lifestyle, Not a Formula
Ultimately, minimalism is just a tool for helping you focus on the things that bring peace and purpose into your life, creating room for more of what truly matters. It’s not a one-size-fits-all fix to the clutter and distractions of life. But minimalism is an opportunity to build a simpler life that focuses on experiences and connection over belongings.
