Minimalism Didn't Just Happen—Here's What Led Me to It

A lot of us have reasons for our actions — our choices don't just happen randomly. There's always something that shapes the way we live, guiding us toward certain decisions. For me, adopting minimalism didn't just happen or come out of the blue. It was a result of my experiences growing up and the lessons I learned along the way.

I didn't wake up one day and decide to live with less. It was a gradual shift, influenced by the things I saw, the pressures I avoided, and the values I chose to hold onto. Over time, I realized that minimalism wasn't just about owning fewer things — it was about freedom, intentionality, and focusing on what truly mattered. Here's why I embraced this lifestyle and how it has shaped my life for the better.

To avoid the comparison trap but to be grateful:

When I was in school, it was easier to get pressured into living above my means. I watched lots of people in my department comparing themselves to others, buying trending outfits, and keeping up with social media and others' lifestyles — this was way too much for younger girls and they are always wanting more, never satisfied. Seeing how life turned out for most of them, I zipped up and ensured I was content with what I had. I tried not to compare myself with anyone but to be grateful for what I have even to the little things most people take for granted.

This mindset led me to adopt a simple yet graceful lifestyle, helping me break free from the chaos and pressures of society giving me more opportunities to appreciate what I have, and sincerely, I couldn't have asked for much more than just living my life most simply.

To save money while spending less:

A lot of people have told me how stingy I am because I choose to save rather than spend lavishly like some of my friends do. I knew the value of saving, even though it took me until the last three years to become truly intentional about it. My minimalist lifestyle has helped me save more by buying only what I need, which means spending less and cutting unnecessary expenses while staying focused on my financial goals.

While some would always remain broke, lamenting about not having money to satisfy themselves, one thing minimalism taught me was to take every opportunity to make sure I enjoy life in my own way. I'm someone who prefers to spend my money to stock food in the house and my mantra has been even if I am broke, there should be food for me to eat every day. I have watched some of my friends go hungry, but when you check their wardrobe, the clothes lined up are enough to feed them for a long time. A decision made just to oppress but mine was to ensure I don't suffer.

Easier cleaning:

Many people who visit my home always talk about how neat I am. This made me reflect on how my minimalist lifestyle has influenced this aspect of my life — having fewer items, organizing my space, and maintaining cleanliness, making cleaning quicker and easier.

_{My neighbour's kids who came to visit}

When I was young, I was much lazier and reluctant when it came to cleaning because our home felt overwhelming. My parents, especially my dad, never threw things away. He would keep items that should have been discarded, hoping they might be useful later, but they never were. It made the whole room feel suffocating making the whole cleaning process take longer, and with little space for ventilation.

Growing up, I made a decision to keep only what truly mattered. Fewer items meant more space, better airflow, and a sense of freedom and most importantly, for my peace of mind. This is why I embrace minimalism, not just as a way of living, but as a choice that keeps my life free from unnecessary burdens, helping me focus on what truly matters.

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_{All photos in the post are minr}