“The things you own end up owning you” – Fight Club

Minimalism has been sort of a buzzword these days. Today we will be talking about the benefits of minimalism. In a world full of distractions and “stuff” there are a lot of things that can occupy our mind. You may not notice but owning too much “stuff” can increase stress. Here are some of the benefits of having less.

Increase happiness

Studies have shown that individuals who spend more money on experiences rather than materialistic things are happier. Purchasing a new car may feel rewarding in the short term, but after a while, it will just be another car until you satisfy your needs with a new car purchase.

When we buy things, we feel a sense of release, creating the feeling of satisfaction and happiness. We don’t crave the object itself but the release of purchasing the object. The new iPhone comes out, you stand in line waiting. The craving builds up stress inside your body. Once you buy that phone all your bottled-up stress gets released, leading to satisfaction and happiness.

However, experiences can last a lifetime. Humans are social creatures. Creating experience with friends and family will provide a sense of belonging and connection, leading to happiness and excitement.

Our mind remembers heightened experiences longer than less stimulating activities. When we travel to a new country the mind is exposed to new site, sounds, smells, and taste. This sends the brain into overdrive, stimulating multiple regions at once. Creating a stronger memory of your experience.

Saves Money

Minimalism can save you money! Less stuff equals more money. A minimalist will buy what he or she needs, not what they want. Have you ever bought a T-shirt only to wear it once and store it in your closet for the next 5 years? I know I have.

Helps the Environment

Less consumption means less waste. Buying only the things you need will result in less stuff ending up in the wasteland. Not only does this help your wallet, but it also helps the environment!

Less Clutter

We all have that one friend that stores all their old school assignments since kindergarten in a box hidden in the basement. We hold onto things with the mindset of “I might need this later.” The thought of not having something when you need it is scary, but if you haven’t used it for a year, chances are you don’t need it or forgot about it.

Get rid of unless clutter and free up some space! Not only will you feel more organized, but the space will relieve stress. My personal favorite is that I don’t have to clean as much, which saves me time for things I enjoy doing.

More Time

Minimalism doesn’t stop with the things you own. You can apply it to your schedule too! Take a few minutes to trim your schedule for more time to do the things you love! Cut back on television or social media to spend that time investing in a new hobby.