/r/minimalism

Photograph via snooOG

For those who appreciate simplicity in any form.


For those who appreciate simplicity in any form.

Rules: (more details »)

  1. No memes
  2. Posts need to be related to minimalism
  3. Please keep things civil
  4. No self-promotion / advertising. This includes surveys of any kind (including academic).
  5. Assign a flair to your post after submitting it:
  • [lifestyle] - Decluttering of possessions & thoughts

  • [arts] - Minimal art, design and music

  • [meta] - About this community

Related multi-reddits:

/r/minimalism

1,928,575 Subscribers

1

Nightstand, dresser, shoes - what do you do?

Hi everyone! We recently moved and sold most of our furniture. For the past year, we’ve been living with family. It’s been a great time to reflect on what I actually need to repurchase.

My question is… do you own / what is your solution for

  1. Bed side tables - I have a CPAP and I am hesitant to put this on the floor, and it is kind of unsightly so I really want to hide it… but also don’t know if I want to buy a night stand.

  2. Dresser - I don’t have that many clothes but I do have underwear and socks! Where do you all store these smaller items?

  3. Shoes - I don’t have many shoes but my husband does (each shoe has a specific use). How to keep them all organized? Do you all have shoe racks?

5 Comments
2024/07/14
16:08 UTC

166

Social media has turned into everyone selling something

Anyone else notice this? Everyone is selling their program/course, ebooks, merch, or really anything they can profit off of. I just can't imagine that many people buying these courses but clearly they are profitable or these "influencers" wouldn't make them. I'm not against trying to earn extra income or money but the amount of people who aren't even qualified to be giving health/diet advice yet making a programs is very concerning.

35 Comments
2024/07/14
13:58 UTC

0

Philosophy

"How has learning about philosophy impacted your perspective on life? Share your insights and favorite philosophical concepts! 🤔💭 #Philosophy #LifeReflections"

3 Comments
2024/07/14
02:36 UTC

0

Why delete this post and say “reply to this message if you find this in error” when you can’t even reply?

https://www.reddit.com/r/minimalism/s/KFKUnusPjq

How is a post about a minimalist activity tracker without a screen NOT about minimalism and why is it being deleted a year after posted?

3 Comments
2024/07/14
00:52 UTC

13

Sustainable Fashion Survey

Survey on Sustainable Fashion

Hello, I am researching on Sustainable Fashion in online communities for my research project. Will take hardly 5 minutes to fill the survey. Would appreciate it a lot.

https://forms.gle/W9SeAMRo2aTnBxe76

5 Comments
2024/07/13
16:35 UTC

7

Floor sleeping options and set up

Hello everyone,

I'm considering getting rid of my bed and transitioning to sleeping on the floor. However, I'm struggling to find the perfect setup for my situation.

I currently live in Germany with my partner, and it's really hard to find futons or tatami mats locally. My house becomes quite humid in winter, so I'm concerned about mold if I put something directly on the floor. Additionally, we don't have a garden or balcony to air out potential bedding.

One option I've considered is using a duvet instead of a futon, but I'm not sure how well it would hold up. It also gets very cold in winter, and I'm worried about getting too cold sleeping directly on the floor. Our budget is limited, so we can't afford very expensive options or importing items from elsewhere.

I'd love to hear your experiences with floor sleeping and any suggestions for a setup that would work in our situation. Thanks in advance!

14 Comments
2024/07/13
12:50 UTC

17

Getting Started!

What aspect of life would you recommend getting started in simplicity/minimalism? I've never done anything intentional in this area, and looking for suggestions on where to get started. What are easy wins?

15 Comments
2024/07/12
23:50 UTC

108

Do most minimalists tend to be also organized and clean?

I'm just presuming here based on those that promote minimalism and my own self. I noticed minimalism is in a way aligned with my need to be organized and clean. I get joy out of having my things sorted and kept. I'm still not the best at it but I wonder if most minimalists tends to have these traits too?

112 Comments
2024/07/12
15:01 UTC

21

Digital Minimalism

My unorganised digital life really eats away at me but I don’t know where to start? I have files, photos, important docs, uni files etc. not to mention emails that sit on opened within my inbox - never archived. I also have multiple options for storage, iCloud, Google Photos, Dropbox or External Hard drive. Please help?

8 Comments
2024/07/12
09:37 UTC

55

Thoughts on a minimalist mindset at age 19?

I've been into minimalism for around 10 months now (this was around the time I finished high school and had time to think more deeply about my life) and ever since, I've genuinely felt such a good change in my life. Owning only what I truly cared about and decluttering everything else has given me such a peace of mind, considering how my parents are hoarders and I'm so used to seeing their stuff EVERYWHERE in the house. Minimalism has not only taught me to be intentional with what I own - I started getting into self-improvement, creating goals for myself, and finally taking action in my life.

So, this has all got me thinking. I've personally never seen many minimalists around my age. None of my friends have this mindset either.

Are there other 19 year olds here that are heavily into minimalism and live this way of life? And as for a general question, what are some thoughts on this mindset and approaching life in this manner at a young age?

44 Comments
2024/07/12
06:22 UTC

3

Shirt recommendations?

I want to find simple, plain solid color tees (black, grey, navy, white) that are affordable. I have seen sites like jiffy.com but the fabric weight still seems pretty light/thin. Anyone have recommendations where I can source such t-shirts?

29 Comments
2024/07/12
05:37 UTC

39

Women: recommendations on high quality clothes that are easily mixed and matched and affordable?

I’m wanting to simplify my wardrobe. I’ve been buying clothes at second hand stores for years and have ended up with things that don’t mix and match well and a lot of everything. I’d like to start over with new clothing that is well made, solid colors, and mix and match well so I only need a few things but can vary the combinations. Natural fibers and sustainably made would be a bonus. I’m also looking for clothes that work equally in an office and after hours. Thank you!

28 Comments
2024/07/12
05:05 UTC

27

Online clothes shopping

Removing more and more of my un used or ill fitting clothing. Ready to commit to buy a few "forever" pants. Seeking recommendations for sustainable, ethical, comfortable, pants for women's (often changing) bodies. Like.... You know we gain and loose 5-10 lbs monthly depending on hormones and water.

11 Comments
2024/07/11
17:27 UTC

5

What to keep in mind while shifting to new place?

For context, I will be starting a new job which presents me with an opportunity to declutter as I shift to a new place. However, over time, as I have witnessed, I tend to hoard things that might not fit the minimalist lifestyle that I desire.

I aim for utility when it comes to buying new things unless they are cheap mindless purchase of souvenirs, books or stationary. I don't mind books at the moment, but over time it accumulates.

My philosophy when I comes to minimalism is purchasing things that would save me time and meneal efforts. Comfort comes last.

I am looking for advice that I can implement in the shift.

Thank you :)

6 Comments
2024/07/11
10:18 UTC

53

How to be a clothing minimalist with a changing body?

I had my daughter a couple years ago and gained a bit of weight postpartum. I then lost some weight, and now regaining a bit. I also plan on having another baby in the near future so my body will change again. I keep a box of clothes that don’t fit in my closet (both too big and too small) to accommodate these changes. I want to get rid of some items, but if I do, I’ll just have to go shopping to buy more when I go up or down sizes.

In the past I have gotten rid of clothes that were too big as a motivational tool to not gain weight. However, this never worked and just made me sad when I needed to go up a size.

Is there a good system someone can recommend to keep these too big/too small clothing items at a minimum? This box is bursting at the seams!

33 Comments
2024/07/11
04:33 UTC

12

Suggestions?

I realized that the books I have read on minimalism were both Japanese. And while they did have some good things about them, they just don't resonate with me.

I've read: The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing Book by Marie Kondo And Goodbye, Things: The New Japanese Minimalism Book by Fumio Sasaki

My issues with these are 1.Marie Kondo is so extreme she gets rid of other people's belongings often without their permission. 2.She is so extreme she drys all her shampoo bottles and puts them away each time she showers.

My issues with Fumio's book is he has managed to get rid of all the joy in his life. 1.No television, no physical copies of books or movies. He's even decluttered all his digital media.

I'm looking I guess for a method that is more balanced.

I ordered some used copies of books on Swedish Death Cleaning and Lagom.

Does anyone have any suggestions on something that fits what I'm looking for?

I have children and I find lots of joy in books and movies and I refuse to part with anything I own that it out of print. I want thinks to be more minimalized without throwing away everything that makes me happy.

I don't have any hobbies other than reading that needs room.

63 Comments
2024/07/10
22:48 UTC

9

van life and winter clothing advice

Hello! What are your go to clothing items and tricks for winter temperatures that don't take up lots of space. Which material is best? I don't like synthetics cause they stink and I don't always get the chance to wash daily. Also I'm vegan so I don't buy wool (unless I find it second hand). I'm about to move back into my van and eventually in a small yacht. I have already a big bag of sailing gear, I'd like to keep everything else at the minimum. Suggestions? Thanks

7 Comments
2024/07/10
20:26 UTC

17

Black only

Hi! Cleaning out closet! Decided on a black denim wardrobe. I will accessorize with silver, gold or pink

Soooo…. I have about 10 random pieces that are blue purple green..

Should I just donate to start fresh? I really don’t feel great in them, but I don’t hate them.

I’m excited!!!!

38 Comments
2024/07/10
19:57 UTC

2

Navigating social media as a business owner

Hey everyone,

I hope people here are gonna understand me more than the blogging or entrepreneur sub. I'm trying to build a business. Initially, I focused on my blog and website to share my passion. I've started with Youtube and Tiktok but quickly realized it was emotionally draining for me due to their nature. Also because I'm an introvert and hypersensitive person I don't like spending too much time on social media in general. However, the comments from people led me to grow my business and create a LinkedIn and Instagram accounts.

To manage my online presence, I hired a community manager. Unfortunately, I still have to spend a lot of time on social media because she's not doing the job like I want her to. Overseeing our social media accounts has become more draining than I anticipated. Constantly checking metrics and feeling like I'm not gaining enough followers or engagement has taken a toll on my mental well-being. It's made me question my progress and sometimes feel ungrateful, despite having a lot to be thankful for in my personal life.

That said, my blog remains a sanctuary where I can focus on creating meaningful content without the pressures of likes and shares. These last 2 days I've spent a lot of time on social media and I can feel it's affecting me. Recently, I've been considering stepping back from social media altogether. Focusing solely on my blog and fostering genuine connections with my audience feels like the right move to align with my values and regain a sense of gratitude. The other solution would be to hire a good community manager who I can delegate to 100%.

I'd appreciate any insights on finding a healthier approach to online presence and business growth.

9 Comments
2024/07/10
18:34 UTC

0

J-Life Futon water damage/mold

J-Life 100% cotton Futon got water damage and possibly mold or mildew on it during a recent rainfall when my floor flooded.

Is there anything to do to save it? I’ve left it outside on my porch to dry in the sun for a few days. Is there a product I should use to get rid of mold? Is it salvageable?

2 Comments
2024/07/10
17:48 UTC

14

How can I be a Sustainable Reader? 

Do you think that the physical Book reading is not sustainable?

I have two piles that I make me question my reading..

  • TBR Pile - I have hoarded soo many books in my TBR pile.. waiting for right time, vibe, motivation, etc.
  • Didn't Like Pile - Books that I've read and I didn't like..

I have too many books that I have out grown. What do I do with the books that I don't like? Yeah I could keep everything just for the sake of it. but is that really sustainable?

And I don't really like the concept of Kindle / E-books. I like the feel of physical books, buying books, having them on my table,. Plus Physical books are far more sustainable than Kindle.

I am slowing shifting to Minimalism.. So, I only want to keep books that I absolutely LOVE!

How can I be more sustainable in my book reading journey.. and book reading practices. Does anyone have any tips, ideas, suggestions.. Anything..?

61 Comments
2024/07/10
12:34 UTC

10

Sustainability in Workplace - Why & How!

Sustainability in the workplace should not be a marketing strategy or promotional tactic; it should be the company's ethic and everyday practice.

Sustainability is not a complex or dull subject. It's a matter that concerns us all and should be a top priority for everyone.

Here are some practical tips for incorporating sustainability into our workplace routines.

  1. Go Virtual - Conduct online meetings, and when not necessary, encourage people to turn off their cameras.

  2. Go Paperless - Use recycled paper, double side printing, go paperless if you can, and recycle paper waste.

  3. Waste Segregation - Use different color dustbins for ease of identification for everyone

  4. Turn off the lights - Install Sensor lights if possible, promote

  5. Promote Reusable cutlery - Dishwasher safe cutlery > Single-use plastic cutlery

  6. Promote Public Transport - Encourage public transport by allowing flexible timings for coming and working; if you can- install E-Vehicle Charging stations and Bicycle Stands to promote E-Vehicles and Bicycles.

  7. Conduct Beach and street Cleanup initiatives and encourage the Community upliftment mindset.

Everything on the above list requires regular training and sessions to educate and motivate everyone! Something is better than nothing.

Your input on this is crucial. What are your thoughts, and how can we make our workplaces more sustainable?

2 Comments
2024/07/10
12:16 UTC

51

Did anyone become a minimalist on accident?

I read a lot about folks decluttering and trying to become a minimalist. But, did anyone just end up that way on accident? Like it's just your nature.

63 Comments
2024/07/10
08:21 UTC

11

How to organize/declutter cables?

i have a lot of cables lying around, mostly for charging my phone and laptops, etc... what should i do with them? What is the reasonable amount of cables one should own?

thanks!

15 Comments
2024/07/09
17:56 UTC

22

Tips for moving into a new apartment?

I'm gonna be moving out of my parents' house soon enough and I'm thinking of getting an apartment in Indianapolis. Any tips for furniture and things I'd need for the place?

14 Comments
2024/07/09
17:49 UTC

35

Help parting with my deceased father’s items.

My father passed in 2018. I have all his items in a large shed I bought which would be cheaper than storage. Most of the stuff is rubbish to the average person.

He was deeply religious and a lot of the items are religious. Prayer books, pamphlets etc.

I have tried several times to sort through it and end up closing the shed and forgetting about it. I need the shed more accessible for my hobbies and not be a storage area.

I was brought up in poverty and that to throw away things ‘is a sin’ or ‘that might become handy’ so when I try to declutter I hear my dad’s voice and feel terrible getting rid of his possessions. Please give me some tips to get this task done and not feel guilty.

He was into model railways and I’ve all his gear and his layout which is 6ft x 4ft. It’s obsolete tech by today’s standards and again I hear him telling me not to throw away his trains! I don’t mean literally hear him it’s more a feeling. All this stuff is in the shed since 2019 and stressing me out. Can anyone else relate to this?

I don’t have the time or energy to sell it and even giving away stuff for free is hassle with the time wasters!

Thanks for reading.

32 Comments
2024/07/09
09:35 UTC

18

big hobby's and letting go

Iv always wanted a classic car. For a few years I gave up on that dream but lately I went to some car shows and it sparked that dream again. I was at peace with never owning one and now I'm back to looking at them online for sale and stressing. big hobby's like this trouble me. I have a modern truck that serves me just fine for getting to work. its 14 years old and I work on it alot already to keep it running. Any tips for dealing with these big hobby's and coming to peace with letting these dreams go? im in Canada and life is so expensive i feel stupid looking at anything extra aside form housing. but ill never afford a home so i get the urge to "atlest have something to work towards" example building up a old car or truck. any thoughts on how you guys have let go of big dreams and stayed minimal?

34 Comments
2024/07/09
08:00 UTC

5

Minimal banking vs earning interest and cashback?

In the past, I had many bank accounts and credit cards, then simplified to one comprehensive account with a credit card.

Now I moved to UK and here for the sake of earning interest, cashback, and tax reporting, I am having many bank accounts.

Monzo The day to day current account is Monzo, very easy to use, thinking to move to Chase for cashback. I love Monzo app, very user friendly. The savings account is at 4.6% interest rate, thinking to move to Chase for 5.1% but it will ends 6 months later and down to 4.1%. Then will need to move again.

Nationwide Income is through Nationwide, I try to keep this account minimal and clear. I have a current and savings here, but the savings rate reduced after 1 year and now no money in the savings.

Santander Direct debit for bills are on Santander account, which I need to keep a current account for the linked child account. I also have a savings here but the rate is much lower now and I don’t use it.

Hsbc I also have HSBC accounts which are for international transfer without service fee and enjoy the free travel insurance.

I also have different cashback apps and giftcards which give a few % of cashback.

The savings rate usually ends within 12 months, some better rate requires a monthly deposit which requires planning and maintenance. Some require a monthly fee and need to carefully calculate if it worths.

To be honest, it is driving me crazy to manage so many accounts.

Any advice that balance the minimalistic and earning the benefits/ interest?

I guess I should close the savings which I don’t use anymore. Anything else?

19 Comments
2024/07/09
07:01 UTC

117

It takes time to get rid of your stuff respectfully....

I am moving abroad at the end of the year, and right now I have a house full of things, furniture, meaningful possessions...

I have about 23 weeks to de-clutter and I want to do it respectfully. By respectfully I mean ... selling the things that have enough value to make it worth selling. I have decided that this means if its worth more than £5 - I will try to sell it.

But I've realised in doing this over the last few weeks that this is going to take me a lot of time... and I've not got a lot of time. Listing items online takes considerable time.

I think I'm going to have to just purge an awful lot of the stuff when the clock finally runs out toward the end of November.

I feel good getting rid of things, if I am selling them them, but I also feel sad about saying goodbye to somethings... somethings I know I hardly use but its just sad to let them go. My electric guitar, my Linkin Park collection, my PS1 games...

I'm really just venting here a bit.

De-cluttering and going minimal is making me feel great on the whole.

59 Comments
2024/07/08
22:02 UTC

10

Exercise Equipment

What exercise equipment do you own?

Some months ago I bought a dumbbell set. I thought ''this will finally make me exercise more regularly''. Lo and behold, it didn't. A shocker. Those dumbbells have been sitting in my closet almost completely unused and I'm thinking of getting rid of them because clearly I'm not getting use out of them.

I've been wondering that a bodyweight training could be a useful practise, since you just use your bodyweight to train. I don't have a goal of getting ultra big muscles anyway. In addition to that I own a set of weights that you can wrap around your arms or legs, they're kinda useful. I also got a jumping rope that's good for a warm-up.

I know that a gym is a convenient option but I can't spend the money on that right now.

What's your experience with exercise equipment? Has something similar happened to you as with me regarding the dumbbells? Do you have any minimalism tips regarding this topic?

26 Comments
2024/07/08
13:31 UTC

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