Have you ever wondered what the difference is between simple living and minimalism? The concept behind each term isn’t too far apart from the other, which may cause confusion. On our blog we like to talk about minimalism but we do it with an undertone of simple living. You may wonder which is the better choice for your lifestyle.
Before we begin, it’s important to note that these “definitions” of Simple Living and Minimalism are personal opinions, and the “definitions” will vary from person to person.
First, if you practice minimalism then, in a way, you also practice simple living as the two tend to go hand in hand. While minimalism is the practice of reducing your desire and drive to possess “things”, simple living focuses on living a more simple life. To some, this may mean enjoying life in the country, and living off the land. But to others this may mean embracing frugality and being ecofriendly (which are two other forms of living that one could embrace). In the end though, minimalism and simple living both have one important trait in common: simplicity. Each embrace simplicity and living with only what you need.
While minimalism holds an emphasis on decluttering and focus on the more important things in life (family, friends, etc.), simple living offers a more “natural” way of life, giving you the freedom to live intentionally and meaningfully. You may even embrace “green living,” which fits just fine with minimalism and simple living.
I’ve heard minimalism once described as an “extreme” version of simple living. And, in a way, this is true. If you take my own personal journey over the past year, I’ve significantly downsized my home in a way I never thought possible. I’ve donated over 1,000 possessions. While I’m not able to fit everything I own in a small backpack, I can easily fit everything I own (furniture included) into a one car garage and still have room to walk around. And, yes, I did actually test this. The last time I moved I did it without a moving truck. I fit everything I owned into a Kia Soul and small trailer attached to a pickup truck. It took a full load and then half of a load (half load was for my washer, dryer, and small arm chair) to move everything. The next time I move, I’m aiming for only one load.
In a nutshell
A quick way to compare the two:
Minimalism – Downsize, simplicity, declutter, and keeping only the necessities.
Simple Living – Frugality, simplicity, back to basics, and living with only what you need.
When you think about, those two descriptions really aren’t that far apart.
What is best for me?
That largely depends on what you’re comfortable with and what you’re hoping to achieve. Are you looking to downsize and declutter, but are not quite ready to commit to “living off the land”? Then minimalism is probably for you. Or, are you looking to return to the basics and maybe enjoy life at a gentler pace, taking it day by day? Then simple living is probably the option for you.
It’s very important to note that there are MANY minimalists who also identify with simple living, and vice versa. And there is nothing wrong with wanting to enjoy the benefits from different “styles of living.” For example, I find myself trying to live minimally (minimalist), simply (simple living), eco conscious (green living), all while avoiding unnecessary expenses (frugal living).
What is the focus for MIS?
While our blog, Minimalism is Simple, puts an emphasis on minimalism we also try to tie in simple living, green living, and frugal living when appropriate. In fact, the name of our blog was kind of a play on the two things (minimalism and simple living). Of course, we welcome everyone though.
Blessings,
Aly
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The post What Is The Difference Between Minimalism and Simple Living? appeared first on Minimalism is Simple.