Today, I want to share four habits I’ve let go of as part of my minimalist journey. These small but impactful changes have simplified my space and brought a profound sense of peace and clarity to my life.
Before we dive in, let me say this: minimalism doesn’t have to mean stark aesthetics or owning almost nothing. It’s about finding what works for you and eliminating what doesn’t. Whether or not you embrace a minimalist lifestyle, decluttering can benefit everyone.
1. No More Under-Bed Storage
I used to stash everything under the bed—blankets, extra bedding, magazines, books, even random household items like batteries and old cell phones. It was a convenient hiding spot but also a clutter magnet.
A home leak forced me to clear it all out, and that’s when I realized how much unnecessary stuff had accumulated. Dusty and forgotten, it served no purpose. Now, I keep the space under my bed empty, except for essential power strips and charging cables. This simple change transformed our bedroom into a sanctuary for rest. The empty space beneath the bed feels like a breath of fresh air—calm and serene, just as a bedroom should be.
2. Cutting Back on Bulk Buying
For years, I thought buying in bulk was the ultimate money-saving hack. Stocking up on essentials like toilet paper, trash bags, toiletries, and pantry staples seemed smart. But I soon found myself overwhelmed by the sheer volume and frustrated by the constant need for extra storage.
Worse, I often forgot what I had and ended up overbuying. By stepping away from bulk buying, I’ve learned to use items more intentionally and appreciate what we have. This shift has not only decluttered our home but also saved us money by reducing waste and overuse.
3. Clearing the Kitchen Counter
My kitchen counter used to overflow with appliances, utensils, and gadgets. I thought having everything out made cooking easier and gave the space a “lived-in” feel. In reality, it added to the visual clutter and made cleaning a chore.
Now, I keep only the essentials visible—like a kettle during winter and a water pitcher. Everything else stays tucked away until it’s needed. This approach has made cooking more enjoyable, opened up counter space, and simplified cleanup. A clear counter feels like a fresh start every day.
4. Saying Goodbye to Rugs
I loved the cozy feel of rugs in our living spaces, especially in living rooms, but they came with a price—constant vacuuming and cleaning. Over time, the upkeep started to feel more like a burden than a benefit.
For now, we’ve removed our rugs in our living room, opting for a simpler, easier-to-maintain setup. While rugs can add warmth and texture, skipping them has streamlined our cleaning routine and struck a balance between comfort and convenience.
Less Stuff, More Freedom
Minimalism may not be for everyone, but the benefits of decluttering and owning less are undeniable. As someone who once felt overwhelmed by the endless cycle of cleaning and organizing, I can attest to the transformative power of letting go. The less you have, the less you need to clean—and the more time and energy you gain for what matters most.
I’m excited to continue sharing my minimalist journey with you. Each change brings me closer to a more intentional and fulfilling way of life. Let’s explore this journey together—one step at a time.
What About You?
Have you made any small changes to simplify your life? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas.
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for more reflections and tips on living with less!
[Originally written in March 2024]
