Author: Kathy

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…

Most of us seek ways to become more mindful in everyday life. One solution is to look eastward, more specifically to Japan. Mindfulness is an integral part of Japanese culture – and present in a vast plethora of social and cultural norms. On this basis, here are three intriguing Japanese concepts to live more mindfully.  This article may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here. I’ve always been obsessed with Japan and its cultural specificities. Every time I visit, my fascination grows, and I always want to return.  The allure mostly resides in Japan’s uniqueness. The archipelago spent most…

Minimalism and hygge are two popular philosophies these days. Both require intentionality and mindfulness. Both have Scandinavian design pendants. And both ultimately rest on the desire to live a meaningful life. On this basis, here’s an overview of the similarities between the Danish art of hygge and modern minimalism. This article may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here. After visiting Denmark a couple of years ago, I became fascinated by the Danish way of incorporating coziness and conviviality into various aspects of life.  Although the word “hygge” has no English equivalent, it could be defined as a simple,…

Calmness is a superpower. Not many people possess it, and not many retain it over long periods. In our fast-paced, ever-changing world, calmness is the exception, not the norm. A calm temper is, however, indispensable to productivity, apt decision-making, and social tactfulness. On this basis, here are seven effective habits that make you a calmer person.  I’ve always been fascinated by calm, composed people who don’t let external negativity or personal setbacks destroy their peace.  In this context, one question generally arises: what superpowers do these people possess?  On my minimalist journey, I realized that you learn these superpowers over…