Less Is More: Adjusting To The Minimalist Tiny Home Lifestyle
The idea of getting rid of belongings can be a stressful thing to many. This phenomenon can be so overwhelming, there are TV shows about hoarders and helping people minimize and organize. Once it’s all said and done, most people feel a weight off their shoulders. Minimizing your lifestyle to things you need and cherish most makes you often realize you don’t really have that many necessities.
The desire for bigger and bigger homes has been a trend since the 1980s, which caused a counterculture trend of minimalist living. Fast forward to today, and minimalism has continued to rise as the housing crash proved many to have overbought.
There are many who desire the simplistic living style of a tiny home because taking care of a large home requires a lot of upkeep. Home ownership can be an on-going chore of remodeling and fixing things that break. Owning a smaller home means less maintenance, less cleaning, and more time for work, hobbies, and travel.
Making The Minimalist Transition Can Be Hard - At First
As you move into a tiny home, the challenges that arise will probably be new to you and to your relatives and friends. Not having someone to turn to who understands what it’s like to go tiny can be stressful, but luckily there is a booming tiny living community out there as a resource. There are shows on HGTV that give advice and show the challenges you can face, and a plethora of videos on YouTube.
As you transition into a minimalist lifestyle, you must first ask yourself what is important for your everyday use and brings you the most joy. This could be an espresso machine, a painting from a friend, or a lamp passed down generations. Then you must evaluate what is taking up space and declutter.
If there are things you absolutely can’t part with, pack it up for storage. Eventually you will find yourself disassociating with material things. Doing this will lead to the realization that experiences, hobbies, and relationships bring you more joy.
But How Can I Survive Without A Walk-In Closet?
Clothing is something that can be especially hard to decide what to keep and what to get rid of. We fluctuate sizes, styles change, and we all have those special occasion outfits. Something to keep in mind is if you donate your old clothing to the American Red Cross or another organization, you could be helping those in need get a new wardrobe.
A simple practice to minimize clothing is to flip all your hangers backwards, and as you wear something and rehang, flip it the correct way. In a month, you can see clearly which clothing items haven’t been touched and review those. Another practice is to get rid of an item every time you purchase something new. No more saving those skinny jeans from high school that you haven’t fit in years.
If you do require a large closet space, keep that in mind as you search or build out your tiny home. There are tiny homes with walk-in closets, but that space will be taking away from your other areas. It is very possible to get creative with storage and fit your wardrobe essentials. We also suggest rotating sweaters and tank tops as new seasons roll in.
In The End, You Will Experience Gratitude
Once you move into your tiny space, you will start to think before you buy things. Ultimately this lifestyle change could help you save money and become more conscious overall.
Minimal living focuses on contentment and gratitude with what you have. You will find yourself cherishing moments, friendships, experiences, and hobbies more than ever.
Read Why Tiny Homes Are A Permanent Housing Category Here To Stay.
