For years, I was focused on numbers—revenue, earnings, and interest rates. As a financial analyst, I thought growth and accumulation were everything. But a three-week backpacking trip through Southeast Asia changed my perspective completely.
In Chiang Mai, I looked at my minimal belongings: a few shirts, one pair of shoes, and basic toiletries. I felt lighter, not just in body but also in mind. The contrast when I returned to my cluttered home was striking. It prompted me to ask: What if a richer life means owning less, not more?
The True Cost of Possessions
We seldom consider the real cost of our stuff. It’s not just about the money. Each item requires space, attention, and maintenance. It takes time to clean and organize. Even when we aren’t actively thinking about our belongings, they occupy mental space.
In my years as an analyst, I learned every asset incurs carrying costs. This same logic applies to our lives. For example, that treadmill in your basement? It’s not just an old purchase; it occupies space and carries guilt every time you see it. Multiply that by everything you own, and it’s easy to see why so many feel overwhelmed.
Why Do We Buy Unnecessarily?
I started noticing my shopping habits. Often, I bought things out of boredom, stress, or the desire to feel good. The marketing industry has perfected the art of triggering these impulses. They know we aren’t just after products; we crave feelings—status or convenience.
I had thought new gear was essential for being a real runner until I met a seasoned athlete who completed ultramarathons in her old shoes. It made me reflect on how much of what I owned was tied to the image I wanted to project.
Environmental Impact
Embracing a minimalist lifestyle also opened my eyes to environmental concerns. Every product contributes to pollution—from raw material extraction to landfill waste. The average American generates about 4.5 pounds of trash a day, much of it from packaging and products we don’t need. Reducing what we buy lessens our ecological footprint.
Being mindful about consumption has transformed my approach to shopping. I now consider if an item is genuinely necessary and if it comes from sustainable sources.
The Benefits of Letting Go
I started decluttering one drawer at a time. Surprisingly, I felt relief instead of regret. I purged 60% of my clothes and haven’t missed any. Now, getting dressed is quicker, and my laundry is lighter. I also streamlined my kitchen, keeping only what I frequently use.
Minimalism isn’t just about owning less; it’s about freeing up mental space. With less to manage, I have more time for activities I love, like running and writing.
Financial Freedom
Tracking my spending revealed an embarrassing truth: I was wasting thousands annually on unnecessary items. When you own less, you buy less, which means you need less money. This creates a unique freedom.
Instead of feeling deprived, it’s about prioritizing what matters most. For me, that meant building an emergency fund and ultimately quitting my corporate job to focus on writing.
Start Small
You don’t need a life-changing journey to benefit from owning less. Start by observing what you actually use. This week, take note of items you frequently use versus those you ignore. Choose one small space, like a drawer or a shelf, and clear out what doesn’t serve a purpose.
The goal is not to own as few items as possible but to be intentional about what you keep. Some possessions, like family photos or a cherished hobby item, are worth holding onto. Be conscious about what stays and what goes.
A Richer Life
Over the years, my definition of richness has evolved. I now measure it in experiences and freedom. My home feels more spacious, and my responsibilities have lightened. Minimalism isn’t a cure-all, but it offers a sustainable path to a different kind of wealth—one that emphasizes joy and experience over material possessions.
This shift in thinking shows that true richness can’t be bought. It’s about what we’re free to do, not just what we own.
