The More of Less - A Must Read
Every once in a while a book comes along that deeply impacts and inspires me. This month, a new book was released that did just that. It is The More of Less written by Joshua Becker of Becoming Minimalist.Even though my family completed the majority of our simplifying efforts nearly two years ago, I found myself wanting to let go of even more as I read this book. While I don’t typically refer to myself a “minimalist,” I agree 110% with the idea that a life with less stuff, less excess, is a life with more. More joy, more gratitude and more generosity (to name just a few!).I’ve experienced this reality with my family as a result of simplifying our home, our days and our careers. And I’m blessed to be able to walk alongside others who are doing the same. I have yet to meet someone who regrets following this “less is more” concept. The only regret I hear (and I experienced myself) is that “I wish I had realized sooner that a life with less is truly richer and more fulfilling.This book was rich with content, ideas and practical applications…you’ll have to read it to learn them all. But until then, I’m sharing a few of my favorites. But before highlighting these items, I’d like to that you not let the concept of “minimalism” scare you. I assure you that this book does not instruct you to get rid of nearly everything you own, move to a small, stark white apartment and travel the world with only a backpack. While you may choose to follow this specific path, or a variation of it, this is not the intent of this book.Minimalism, as Joshua Becker defines it is, “The intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of anything that distracts us from them.” Those who pursue minimalism as Joshua outlines it, desire colorful, generous, fulfilling lives with quality items and deep relationships. Put another way, they desire a life of more, not less.And now to some highlights…
- There are many benefits of minimalism
Early on in the book, Joshua describes several benefits of minimalism. You’ll find many in the book and I’m certain that at least one, if not most, of these benefits will interest you. Less stress may be one, or perhaps more money, or maybe it’s one of the 10 other benefits he shares.
- Minimalism is not something new
As a fellow Christian, I enjoyed reading the connections in the book that tie living simply to the stories of the bible. As Joshua experienced himself, hearing some of these stories again, but through the lens of living with a minimalistic mindset, will help you realize that minimalism is not something new. It’s not just a fad or trend. It’s been suggested for thousands of years and it’s not going away any time soon.
- Consumerism does NOT equal happiness
Joshua highlights that consumerism has become confused with happiness. He goes on to describe a variety of ways that we’re being persuaded, tricked and deceived into thinking we always need more and that we’ll never have enough. I found some of the “common marketing ploys” that he shares very disturbing. Whether or not you choose to pursue a life with less after reading this book, you’ll at least have gained awareness about the societal pressures to purchase that are placed on us every day.
- It is possible to simplify difficult items
You’ll find several ideas for how to assess the things you might struggle with minimizing (sentimental items, books and more). And I’m guessing that as you read on, you’ll be a little more open to donating many of your excess items as opposed to trying to sell them. So often people place too high of a dollar value on things they want to get rid of, then they become discouraged when they don’t sell for what they think they’re worth. As stated in the book, “You can’t reach for new experiences and relationships if you are too busy holding on to yesterday’s things,” so be open to the ideas suggested.
- You get to choose what minimalism looks like for you
Again, minimalism looks different for everyone. In order to discover what your version looks like, you’ll find helpful ideas for “experimenting with less.” These ideas will help you ease into the simplifying process in an impactful but comforting way. You’ll also find several suggestions for maintaining a life with less stuff after you’ve completed minimizing your possessions.
- Minimalism is for families too
If you’re thinking that minimalism is not possible for you because you have a family, this book will make you think again. This is probably my favorite key point from the book. Having simplified with my family, I know it is possible and I know you can do it, too!One important related point that Joshua mentions on this subject is that by living minimally, your kids will witness you applying boundaries in your life. Seeing healthy boundaries modeled is an invaluable skill for kids to learn growing up.
- Minimizing physical possessions is often only the beginning
Once you start shedding the unnecessary items in your home, you’ll start to uncover the real you. As you do this, you’ll find yourself wanting to take better care of you…and others, too… This book provides you with lots of ideas to explore after minimizing your physical items. As Joshua’ states in the book, “Those who experience the greatest joy are the ones who seek to implement wise and healthy habits in all aspects of their being.”If these highlights sound interesting to you, grab yourself a copy, dive in and let the ideas and concepts percolate. Whether you are well into your simplifying journey like me, or you just want to get started simplifying because you are feeling overwhelmed with too much stuff in your life, you’re sure to find value in the concepts and examples shared in this book. One last thought to keep in mind…simplifying is a journey. It takes time and energy and requires perseverance. Once you’re ready to commit to pursuing your dreams of living a simpler, more fulfilling life, this book will lead you in the right direction. So read it and follow your dreams!Wishing you Simplicity & Joy,Lisa