It was around mid-2022 that I realized I enjoyed the simplicity of things, thanks to the minimalist community. I was drawn to the idea of living with fewer, but more meaningful possessions. I remember joining most of the weekly #kiss challenges, which helped me gradually improve my minimalist skills. One particular prompt on protecting our ecosystem resonated with me, and I started making changes accordingly.
Even before embracing minimalism, I had tried to manage my electricity consumption to save costs, energy, and the environment. I would turn off lights and appliances when not in use, and I made sure to use energy-efficient light bulbs. Minimalism came naturally to me in many ways, but I struggled with some fixed habits that didn't align with my new lifestyle.
One of the habits I struggled with was saving things even when I knew I wouldn't use them. I would keep items like old clothes, books, and household items, thinking that I might need them someday. But I realized that was not a practice a minimalist can partake in, and I had to deal with it. It was hard for me to let go of these items at first, but I knew I had to be intentional about what I kept in my life.
With time, I learned to let go of items that no longer served me. Instead of saving them, I would give them away to someone who needed them or dispose of them properly. I realized that holding onto items I didn't need was not only cluttering my physical space but also my mental space. I felt lighter and freer when I let go of things that no longer served me.
Another habit I had to work on was prioritizing quality over quantity. Initially, I focused on quantity, thinking that having more was better. But I realized that quality is more beneficial in the long run. Being a minimalist doesn't mean being poor or a beggar; we opt for durable and high-quality items to avoid frequent replacements. I learned to invest in items that would last longer and bring more value to my life.
As a minimalist, I've also learned to cherish experiences and connections more than physical possessions. I used to think that happiness came from accumulating things, but I realized that true happiness comes from experiences and connections with others. I now appreciate simple things like taking a walk on a moody day, listening to music, or having a meaningful conversation with a friend. These experiences have helped me develop new ways to lift my mood and appreciate the beauty in life.
Minimalism has also taught me to be more intentional about my time and energy. I used to spread myself too thin, trying to do too many things at once. But I realized that focusing on a few things that truly matter is more important than trying to do everything. I've learned to prioritize my time and energy, and I've seen a significant improvement in my productivity and overall well-being.
Looking back, I'm proud of the progress I've made as a minimalist. It's not always easy, but it's worth it. I've learned to let go of things that no longer serve me, prioritize quality over quantity, cherish experiences and connections, and live more intentionally. I'm grateful for the minimalist lifestyle that has brought about positive changes in my life, and I look forward to continuing this journey.
This is my response to the #kiss for this week and I do hope you enjoy reading through it 🥰.
