Have you ever thought about owning less? Becoming a minimalist, perhaps? Maybe you’ve imagined how freeing it would be to have fewer things cluttering your space… your mind… and your life.
But just thinking about simple living, or minimalism, won’t change your life. You have to take action.
How do you go from just thinking about living with less to actually living it? Watch my video below, or keep reading and we’ll break down the process, step by step, and uncover the benefits of a simpler life.
Step #1: Shift Your Thinking
The first step in moving toward a minimalist type of lifestyle requires a mindset shift. It’s easy to admire simple living from afar, but embracing it requires a change in perspective.
Instead of asking yourself, “What should I get rid of?” ask, “What truly adds value to my life?” Identifying what is most important in your life is key to begin the shift to owning less.
Minimalism, or owning less, isn’t about depriving yourself of things —it’s about intentionality. It’s about removing all the “clutter” that stands between you and what you feel is most important: family, relationships, enjoying nature… whatever that may be for you.
Decluttering material possessions is not just about having a tidy home—it’s about making room for what truly matters. With fewer possessions, you gain more time, more clarity, and more peace.
But none of these benefits come from just wishing your life was simpler. The real change happens when you start letting go.
Step #2: Learn to Let Go
Once you’ve adjusted your mindset, it’s time to take action! You don’t need to start with the hardest stuff, like sentimental items or a storage room. Begin with the easy wins—the things you know you don’t need.
Grab a box or bag and fill it with things you don’t use anymore—items someone else might need. Start small—pick one category like clothing, books, or kitchenware.
Try using the “one-year rule”. If you haven’t used it in the past year, chances are you don’t need it.
Be honest with yourself. Ask, “Does this item serve a meaningful purpose in my current season of life, or is it just taking up space?’” Then, begin donating all of the items that fall into the latter category.
And then tomorrow… do it again. Or if tomorrow is not doable, at least make letting go a weekly habit. The more you do it, the easier it gets, I promise.
Step #3. Create a system to maintain your new lifestyle.
“Minimalism isn’t a one-time event—it’s an ongoing lifestyle, so you’ll need to create systems to keep clutter from creeping back in.
- You might choose to adopt the “one in, one out” rule—if you buy something new, let go of something old.
- Avoid mindless shopping by asking, “Do I really need this?” before making a purchase.
Step #4: Get Ready to enjoy the benefits!
As you clear out the unnecessary, something amazing happens. You create space—not just in your home, but in your mind and your life.
Owning less means less stress, less cleaning, and more freedom!
You’ll have more time, more mental clarity, and more financial freedom. Instead of being tied down by things, you’ll be free to focus on experiences, relationships, and personal growth.
As you can tell from what you’ve just read – Minimalism or Simple Living is a journey – not a destination. That is why I named my YouTube channel The Road To Simple. I’ll always be on this road. But ya know what? I love to travel… and I’ve got room for you in my car! The Road to Simple is a rewarding winding road, and I hope you’ll travel along this road with me. We’ll make progress together one mile at a time!
So are you ready to start owning less? It’s up to YOU to take that first step. Start with small changes, stay consistent, and enjoy the benefits of a simpler, more intentional life. I know you can do it!
Keep it Simple, Friends!
Angie
P.S. I invite you to subscribe to my blog and receive your free copy of Seven Simple Steps. Take advantage of this FREE 4-Week Challenge to create New Habits that will help you simplify your possessions and start experiencing the Benefits of Owning Less! You can also view my Decluttering Playlist here.
