The one minimalism rule I live by

Whether it's from social media or advertisements on our devices, we're continually being told that we need the next best thing to be happy. New things always seem to be the key to one's happiness in today's day and age, even though we may have much more than we already need.

When it comes to tackling an issue we see in our lives, it's essential to understand the root causes and address them to bring real, sustainable change. So after years of living a minimalist and low waste lifestyle, whenever I get asked what someone should do if they're starting this lifestyle journey, I usually tell them this one simple, yet effective rule:

Refuse the things you don't need.

Our consumeristic tendencies can be better controlled if we learn to understand our actual needs versus our wants. This video will help you determine those differences, and find three practical tips summarized below to help you in your minimalism journey below as well.

Three ways to refuse things you don’t need

Adding more stuff to our lives often does us more harm than good, leaving us empty and unsatisfied. So what can we do to practically refuse the things we don't need to live more simple yet fulfilling lifestyles? Here are three tips to consider if you're trying to better determine your needs versus your wants.

Wait to purchase something new for 30 days

If you're planning on purchasing a new, non-essential good for your home, take a moment to pause

Take 30 days to hold off on a product to determine if you truly need a product - try not to think about it, and reflect on your past month without that new thing

If you still want to make that purchase, be sure to research that you’re buying a quality product that will last the test of time

Practice gratitude

When we're always looking for the next best thing, we may fail to see how much we already have

"Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings."

Find fulfillment in other areas of your life, not your stuff.

Less stuff to manage means more time for passion projects that bring fulfillment and extra time to be spent with loved ones

Consider scheduling more frequent meetups with friends and family, or pursue a hobby that scratches your creative itch to invest your energy in what’s meaningful