Author: Kathy

Chris Guillebeau is an American author, blogger, speaker, and part of a select group of people who have been to all 193 UN countries. His writing inspires millions of people worldwide to channel their inner adventurer and get more out of life. On this basis, here are 5 powerful lessons from Chris Guillebeau about lifestyle design. This article may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here. I first came across Chris’s work way back in 2012.  Somewhere in rural Mexico, a 20-something guy in my hostel was reading The Art of Non-Conformity, Guillebeau’s first book.  I wasn’t familiar with…

Our lives are full of distractions. An email here, a Youtube video there, and our focus goes out of the window. Distractions are powerful, but they are not invincible. With the right system in place, eliminating everyday distractions can become self-evident. On this basis, here are 7 ways to cut out distractions in everyday life.  Ask yourself: how often did you lose concentration as a result of mundane distractions?  How often did you stop reading a terrific book because your phone vibrated? How often did you take your eyes off work by opening a sensationalist news story?  And finally, how…

There is no doubt that minimalism changed my life. Rigorous prioritization helped me become more productive, mindful, and determined. Nevertheless, minimalism also has its downsides, and these can ultimately undermine its benefits. That’s why it’s essential to know when your minimalism becomes excessive.   We all know someone who fell into the trap of over-executing a good idea.  There is the gym rat who wants to become Arnie in two weeks and breaks his knees.  Then there is the Wall Street junior who works 16 hours a day for two years and ends up with a burnout.  And finally, some seek…

When it comes to books about minimalism as a mindset, not many come close to Greg McKeown’s Essentialism. Well-written and full of practical lessons, The Disciplined Pursuit of Less outlines the “less but better” approach. Focus your energy on the essentials, and you’ll become more productive, more serene, and more successful. This article may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here. The term “essentialism” has various meanings. The word dates back to ancient Greek philosophy when Plato characterized the “essence” as an ideal form with essential properties.  As an example, we cannot draw a perfect circle by hand, but…

Decluttering is the first step toward more organization, mindfulness, and freedom. Many people, however, don’t know where to start. They look at their homes and stare at a mountain of useless items, emotional attachment, and guilt. That’s where the following six rules of home decluttering come into play. This article may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here.  Lots of aspiring minimalists struggle with the idea of home decluttering.  What if I need this avocado slicer next year? I cannot donate that dress, I paid a fortune for it. And I certainly cannot get rid of that coffee table…

Minimalists live in empty white rooms with one couch and two chairs. Minimalism is about making every dollar last. And finally, minimalism is a counter-movement to 21st-century consumerism. These are some of the most common misconceptions about minimalism.  In our modern world, two main ideas characterize the popular perception of minimalism.  First, some see minimalism as an anti-consumerist niche movement.  Buy less, get rid of all your stuff, and your life will be fulfilled. Spend your money on experiences, not things. And don’t forget to vehemently oppose consumerism.   Others see it as a trendy design school with functional furniture, high-quality…

Have you ever gotten the impression that your life just flies by in front of your eyes? Your projects, ambitions, and activities consume your entire days without pauses? Your goals devour your energy and you forget simple things like your friend’s birthday? That’s when it’s time to slow your life down.  In the 21st century, many high performers suffer from a lack of balance.  Traders work 80 hours a week. Scientists dedicate their entire existence to that one world-changing project. And entrepreneurs eat, drink, and breathe business ventures.  Some people live fast – without relishing the moment – but not…

Decluttering can be a magical process. In essence, the principles of home decluttering apply to every other aspect of life. On this basis, here are five steps to declutter your home and your life in the process.  Many people ask themselves what the main benefits of minimalism are.  I want to declutter my home. I will get organized. But in a few months, my mess will be back and I will start all over again.  To avoid this cycle, you need to see decluttering as a holistic process that transcends the confines of your home.  In short, you have to…

Few ancient philosophies stood the test of time quite like Stoicism. Many even see the 21st century as Stoicism’s finest hour. In this context, more people read the works of Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius than ever before. Stoicism’s modern success resides mostly in its timelessness and practicability. By using a few Stoic guidelines, you can achieve tangible improvements in all aspects of life. On this basis, here are six powerful Stoic habits that changed my life. This article may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here. In our uber-connected, ever-accelerating world, teachings of stillness, mindfulness, and temperance become…

In our current era, more and more people question their consumption habits, their endless connectivity, and their general priorities. The idea sounds tempting, but many first-timers struggle to create their version of minimalism. Newbies are happy to hop on the prioritization train, but often fail to understand its stations. On this basis, here are 6 common struggles for first-time minimalists.  Minimalism is not a fixed set of norms. It is a journey toward freedom, productivity, and mindfulness.  This journey is personal. While most minimalists share common principles, everybody has to find their best route.  The most common struggles for first-time…