But it's about more than just de-cluttering -- it's about getting rid of all clutter¹, permanently². "Minimalism isn't about empty white rooms with hardly any furniture," said Chris Wray, who writes a UK blog about minimalism, TwoLessThings.co.uk. "It's about removing all the things that distract us from what's important in our lives."

 

For extreme minimalists, such as Andrew Hyde, who lives in Colorado in the US, it means owning only about 15 items. For others, it means getting rid of the excess until you are left with essentials -- and your definition of essential might evolve.

 

"A minimalist lifestyle entails³ being mindful about the things we own, the things we buy, and how we spend our time," said Francine Jay, author of The Joy of Less. "It is a lifestyle that values experiences more than possessions."

 

Naturally, minimalism tends to flourish in countries that have embraced consumer culture, such as the US, UK and parts of Europe. It's difficult to revolt against the get-more-stuff mentality⁴ if that isn't your country's way of life. But you can live a minimalist life anywhere and capture more money for savings⁵ and great experiences, and have less stuff to maintain and clean.

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