As much as I speak about the benefits of living a minimalist lifestyle, I have to admit that I only started living this way due to a move abroad that forced me to take stock of all of my belongings and travel as lightly as possible. That was as recent as five years ago.

I realize for many others, this may not happen as naturally. We all come from various backgrounds and life stories, and some of those stories don’t always prioritize minimalism. Having a family, keeping things of sentimental value, or simply not having the time or the energy to begin decluttering your life are all valid reasons not to be a practicing minimalist.

However, maybe now you’re at a time and place when you are ready to take the first step to live a lighter lifestyle. It all comes down to timing in many areas in life, and deciding to move out the old to make room for the new, whatever that “new” may be, is a commitment of time and energy.

With that in mind, I’ve compiled a list of steps to help you pivot from a “non-minimalist” to a more minimal and uncomplicated manner of living.

8 TIPS TO GO FROM NON-MINIMALIST TO MINIMALIST

Start with all of your storage spaces.

These could range from the “other” side of the garage (if you know, you know), attics, crawl spaces, and junk drawers. Chances are there are items lurking that you have forgotten about or only think you need.

Pick a day and rally all the (willing) troops to help you with this initial horrifying but necessary task. Once you gain momentum and start seeing the pile of things you don’t need increase, I guarantee you won’t stop until you’re satisfied. Your kids’ old toys, old Halloween costumes, Tupperware containers with missing lids, etc. – These are examples of things that have far more perceived than actual value. I promise.

Most cities have a few disposal services that can help you with the final task of getting rid of the junk pile. You’ll have to research to find one that meets your budget and other needs.

Create a capsule wardrobe.

I’ve recently discussed how I simplified my clothes shopping experience HERE. Capsule wardrobes are easier to create than you might think and present you with far more outfit options than you might think. Once you figure out your style tendencies, invest in quality key pieces (preferably in neutral colours since they match with more things) that have uses for more than one occasion.

For example, pencil skirts can be used for work and paired with sneakers for a more casual look. Blazers can also be dressed up and down. Once you get the hang of it can even become an exercise in creativity by creating stylish looks with less (clothing and money).

 Don’t buy any new products until you finish the existing ones.

This can be a challenge if you happen to be something of a “collector” of products you enjoy. Whether it’s makeup, skincare, cooking ingredients, or hair products, try to avoid impulsively purchasing a new and exciting brand that catches your eye.

You can even take it one step further and research the brands that work for you and your needs. This way, you’ll spend money on suitable serums for your skin and hair type or purchase brands that align with your sustainability and ethics goals.

Stick to budgets.

If you have a hard figure in mind allocated to your various spending needs, you will have a much easier time with minimalism in every sense. Not only will you save your hard-earned money, but you will also spend money on items that you have put some thought into.

Go digital with as many services/tasks as you feel comfortable.

Whether it’s going paperless with your mail, reading e-books rather than actual books, or electronically filing all of your essential documents – technology (if you like it) can help you make strides in your minimalist journey.

Make lists.

I start making lists of things I need well before taking a trip to the store (online or real). I do this with new clothing items I have my eye on, grocery shopping, or even shopping for a new place to live.

If you have a written list outlining precisely what you want, chances are you won’t get distracted at the moment by shiny and expensive features that you might regret indulging in later.

Buy with the long term in mind. 

Shopping for quality rarely disappoints over the long term. Items last longer, so you won’t replace things every few months. You can use this tip for clothing, cookware, shoes, furniture, and other consumer items.

Become comfortable with repetition. 

Becoming comfortable with repetition is a personality trait that I developed over time and is now one that I hope never leaves me. It saved me ample time, money, storage, and mental space.

Whether it means being happy wearing the same outfits, eating the same meals (cooked from home), or feeling content with my daily routine without much need for excitement – repetition can be a great thing with long-term returns and benefits.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I hope that what you have read has somehow educated, informed, or inspired you. You can sign up for the mailing list below to receive special announcements directly to your inbox no more than once a month (We won’t spam you!).

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