Minimalism and Wellbeing: Finding Happiness in Having Less

Boats at Rest. Arthur Wesley Dow, 1895. Courtesy the Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago.

Wellbeing is not measured in what we gather, but in what we gracefully let go.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the amount of stuff in your home? Or perhaps felt a sense of freedom after decluttering a closet? A recent study in the International Journal of Applied Positive Psychology aimed to understand the connection between minimalism and overall well-being. Researchers interviewed ten people who identify as minimalists to explore their experiences. The study found that living with less can actually lead to several benefits for your happiness and mental health.

Feeling in Control (Autonomy)

Minimalists in the study reported feeling more freedom and in control of their lives. They felt less "trapped" or "burdened" by their possessions and the constant cycle of wanting more. By consciously choosing what they own, they felt their lives were more aligned with their values, like spending time with loved ones or engaging in activities they truly enjoyed.

Being Effective (Competence)

Living with less stuff made people feel more organized and effective in their daily lives. They experienced less stress and anxiety because their environment felt more manageable. Imagine easily finding what you need without the chaos of clutter – that's the sense of competence minimalism can bring.

Clearing Your Mind (Mental Space)

Minimalism isn't just about physical space; it's about mental space too. Participants felt a sense of clear-headedness and clarity. They believed that a tidy physical space contributed to a calmer mental state. Think of it like this: less clutter around you can mean less clutter in your mind, freeing up mental energy for things that truly matter.

Becoming More Aware (Awareness)

With less focus on acquiring and managing possessions, minimalists found themselves more aware of their thoughts, feelings, and the world around them. They had more time for reflection, mindfulness (being present in the moment), and savoring positive experiences. It's about appreciating what you have and the simple joys of life.

Experiencing More Positive Emotions

Beyond just reducing negative feelings like stress, minimalism was linked to increased positive emotions like joy and peacefulness. These positive feelings seemed to stem from the other benefits of minimalism, such as feeling in control and having more mental space.

What does this mean for you?

This research suggests that the claims of minimalism advocates might actually hold some weight. By intentionally choosing to live with less, you might experience a greater sense of control, effectiveness, mental clarity, awareness, and ultimately, more positive emotions in your life. It's not about deprivation, but about making space for what truly brings you value and happiness.