Have you ever looked around your home and felt overwhelmed by the sheer amount of stuff? Or found yourself buried under commitments, wondering where your time and energy have gone? For us, those feelings were the starting point of a journey that would profoundly change our lives. We’re D & J, and we’re excited to share our story of embracing minimalism and intentional living—and how it can transform your life too.
What Is Minimalism?
Minimalism isn’t just about owning fewer things. It’s about creating space—in your home, schedule, and mind—for the things that truly matter. It’s a mindset that focuses on intentionality, helping you identify what adds value to your life and let go of the rest. As D beautifully put it, minimalism is “living a simple life with fewer, but carefully selected things, fewer commitments, and less noise.”
At its core, minimalism helps you align your possessions, routines, and relationships with your values. It’s about living deliberately and shedding the distractions that keep you from focusing on what really matters.
Our Journey to Minimalism
Our minimalist journey began when we sold our home in 2022 and moved into an RV. Downsizing from a house to a 42-foot trailer was no small feat. We had to evaluate every single item we owned and decide what was worth keeping. Letting go of sentimental items, beloved collections, and even the backyard oasis we had painstakingly built was challenging, but the rewards were undeniable.
One of the biggest lessons we learned was how excess clutter can impact mental health. It wasn’t just about tidying up; it was about freeing ourselves from the stress and anxiety caused by too much stuff. Studies have shown that cluttered environments can elevate cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and hinder focus. By simplifying our surroundings, we found more clarity and peace of mind.
The Emotional Weight of Stuff
Letting go of sentimental items was one of the hardest parts of our journey. J struggled with a collection of sports cards, and D had to part with cherished Disney memorabilia. These items held memories and emotions, but they were often stored away, not actively enriching our lives. We realized that meaningful possessions deserve to be part of our daily lives—displayed, used, or enjoyed—not hidden in boxes.
The passing of J’s mother and great-aunt also brought clarity. Sorting through their belongings made us question the legacy of stuff we leave behind. It was a stark reminder that we can’t take our possessions with us, and the burden often falls on loved ones to decide what to do with it all. We wanted to spare our family that emotional labor.
Minimalism Beyond Possessions
Minimalism isn’t just about physical clutter. It’s also about simplifying your digital and emotional spaces. Here’s how we’ve incorporated minimalism into other areas of our lives:
- Digital Minimalism: Organize your emails, delete unused apps, and create systems to keep your digital life streamlined. For example, J practices “inbox zero” by organizing emails into folders and deleting unnecessary messages daily.
- Emotional Minimalism: Prioritize relationships that bring joy and balance to your life. It’s okay to say no to commitments that drain your energy and focus on nurturing connections that truly matter.
- Social Media: Use platforms intentionally. Avoid endless scrolling and engage meaningfully with content that adds value to your day.
Getting Started with Minimalism
Starting your minimalist journey can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some practical steps:
- Start Small: Begin with one drawer, closet, or room. Sort through your belongings and ask yourself if each item truly serves a purpose or brings you joy.
- One In, One Out: For every new item you bring into your life, commit to letting go of an old one. This rule helps maintain balance and keeps clutter at bay.
- Mindset Matters: Think of minimalism as a tool for intentional living. Ask yourself if your possessions, routines, and commitments align with your values.
- Set Realistic Goals: Minimalism isn’t about perfection. Decide what areas of your life you want to simplify and work on them at your own pace.
- Celebrate Progress: Every step you take toward minimalism—whether it’s decluttering a room or streamlining your schedule—is a step toward greater clarity and freedom.
The Joy of Less
Minimalism has brought us more than just clean spaces; it has given us the freedom to focus on what truly matters—our passions, relationships, and personal growth. It’s a journey, not a destination, and it’s one we’re still on. By living intentionally, we’ve found that less really is more.
Join the Conversation
What does minimalism mean to you? Have you taken steps to simplify your life, and how has it worked for you? We’d love to hear your stories and tips. Share your thoughts in the comments or join the discussion in our Facebook group.
If you’re inspired by this post, check out our podcast, Current Thoughts, for deeper dives into intentional living and more. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to support our journey and help others discover the power of minimalism.