Confession: I Am A Minimalist

Minimalist: Definition

• A minimalist is a person whose lifestyle focuses on living intentionally with fewer possessions for a simple, uncluttered life.
• A minimalist reduces distractions by prioritizing experiences and values over material possessions.
• A minimalist leads a more fulfilling life with like-minded people rather than wasting valuable time with toxic people.
• Minimalism is not simply about owning less.

What a Minimalist Does

A minimalist typically does the following things:

• Removes distractions by decluttering physical spaces and mental clutter.
• Frees up time and energy for what truly matters.
• Practices mindful consumption and purchasing habits.
• Values experiences and relationships over worldly possessions.
• Reduces things and people that no longer serve a purpose or bring joy.
• Has less stress, more time and energy, and better relationships.
• Focuses on simple, essential items and experiences.
• Prioritizes quality over quantity.
• Chooses to live with less to focus on what truly matters.
• Enjoys a simple life.
• Has a greater sense of freedom and purpose.
• A minimalist lives intentionally with less.

What a Minimalist Doesn't Do

These are some things a minimalist doesn't do:

• A minimalist doesn't renounce all worldly things; only things that distract from living a satisfying life.
• A minimalist doesn't own things for the sake of owning them. Everything owned is necessary and has a purpose.
• A minimalist doesn't become so attached to a worldly lifestyle that it neglects spiritual things.
• A minimalist doesn't advocate complete rejection of all possessions. Instead, the main focus is on things that have real value and meaning.
• A minimalist doesn't choose things that don't bring peace and joy.

A minimalist's focus is on simple, essential items and experiences.

My Confession As a Minimalist

For most of my life, I thought I was just different. I did not identify my lifestyle as "minimalist" until a friend told me that I am one. After being introduced to the word, I realized I am a minimalist, and my lifestyle has confirmed minimalism.

I have the essentials in my life and have eliminated things that don't matter. That way, I have eliminated things that kept me bogged down. I enjoy free time to focus on what truly matters.

After being introduced to the word "minimalism," I realize why I am satisfied with owning less.

I live a "less is more" lifestyle.

I have noticed over the years that I don't spend time in shopping malls or online stores, taking advantage of sales, or just shopping unless I need and value something.

Even when I purchase some items, I end up with "buyer's remorse" because those “things” do not fill the voids in my life. I learned that it was just a waste of time and money.

I try to avoid wasting time and money.

I feel burdened by too many possessions, and have decided to give them away on many occasions. Some people never leave my house without taking something with them. I give away pictures off the wall, clothes from my closets, and food from my pantry. If visitors comment on something, I'll ask, "Do you want it?" If they say they want it, I give it to them without hesitating.

Time is precious to me. Therefore, I hate wasting time on the telephone listening to gossip when I could be doing something productive, creative, or enjoyable. I prefer engaging in something that will add to my life. Therefore, I don’t waste time on things that don’t matter and on people who zap my spirit.

The desires of my heart are not for worldly things. Instead, my desires are in harmony with God's plans for my life. I delight myself in the Lord and want only what He wants for me. I believe His word that He will always give me the desires of my heart as a minimalist.

• I confess I am a minimalist.
• I check all the boxes that prove I am a minimalist.
• I have all I need for a fulfilled life.
• I am content being a minimalist.
• I realize I am different from most people who want more and more.

Author's Notes

This article is my testimony and was not written to promote a minimalist lifestyle for others. It might not be suitable for you as it is for me.

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