Embracing Minimalism

Curating My Space with Purpose

10/8/20244 min read

Embracing Minimalism: Curating My Space with Purpose

In my 20s, I was all about “more” - more clothes, more gadgets, more stuff. I believed that accumulating things would somehow make life better or make me feel more accomplished. But as I entered my 30s, I began to realize that all this “stuff” wasn’t adding value - it was cluttering both my space and my mind.

This realization stemmed from how I grew up. I lived in a house that was always full of stuff - clutter, collections, and essentially, hoarding. The environment constantly made me feel stressed and overwhelmed. There was no sense of calm or clarity, and I longed for space - both physically and mentally - to breathe. As a child, I didn’t fully understand how much this environment affected my well-being, but as I grew older, I knew I wanted to live differently.

What Minimalism Means to Me Now

In my 30s, I started to shift toward minimalism, and it became one of the most rewarding changes I’ve ever made. Minimalism, for me, is not about having a stark or bare home; it’s about curating an environment with intention. Everything I keep in my home now has a purpose, whether functional or emotional. The goal is to create a space that feels warm, inviting, and peaceful, without the overwhelming sense of clutter that I experienced growing up.

Instead of just filling space with things, I focus on high-quality pieces that serve a role while contributing to the calm, intentional atmosphere I want to create. Minimalism has brought a sense of mental and physical freedom - each item I choose to keep supports the life I want to live, rather than weighing me down.

Creating a Warm and Balanced Space

Minimalism doesn’t have to mean cold or bare spaces. I’ve learned to balance simplicity with warmth by incorporating textures, soft pops of color, and mindful decor that bring life to my home. It’s about creating a space that feels alive, but not overwhelming - calm, but not empty. This approach has not only transformed my living space but also the way I approach life. By letting go of excess, I’ve made more space for what truly matters.

If you’re considering adopting minimalism, remember it’s not just about eliminating things - it’s about creating both physical and mental space for the moments that really matter. A clutter-free home brings clarity, focus, and peace, allowing you to enjoy life’s more important experiences.

My Favorite Minimalist Essentials

1. Books on Sustainable Living

One of the most impactful resources on my minimalist journey has been Simply Living Well: A Guide to Creating a Natural, Low-Waste Home by Julia Watkins. This book offers practical advice on reducing waste and living with intention, helping me remain mindful of what I bring into my home and how it affects the environment. Watkins’ tips have been invaluable in simplifying my life without sacrificing comfort or joy.

2. Multi-Functional Furniture

Multi-functional pieces are a must in any minimalist home. My SONGMICS Storage Ottoman serves as both seating and hidden storage, which helps keep my space clean and organized. I use it in my foyer to store blankets and baby wipes, keeping everything neatly tucked away while still easily accessible. It’s the perfect blend of functionality and style.

3. Mindful Decor

Although I prioritize simplicity, I still enjoy decor that enhances the atmosphere. The SIBRILLE Black Standing Lamps bring a touch of modern elegance to my living space without overwhelming it, while the FUNSOBA Crystal Clear Glass Flower Vase adds a subtle, natural element that keeps the room feeling warm and inviting. I also have two of the HZDHCLH Wall Clocks, one in my common space and one in my bedroom. These sleek clocks serve both style and function, helping me maintain a minimalist aesthetic without sacrificing character.

4. Sustainable Living Essentials

Sustainability is a key part of my minimalist lifestyle. The VENO Reusable Moving Bags have been a game-changer—not just for moving but also for everyday storage. They are durable, practical, and eco-friendly, helping me stay organized without relying on disposable options.

I’ve also switched to Utopia Kitchen Reusable Napkins and bags similar to Creative Green Life Reusable Grocery Bags, which have significantly reduced my household paper and plastic waste. These reusable items are stylish, functional, and a simple way to make my daily routine more sustainable while staying true to minimalist principles.

5. Minimizing Book Clutter with Kindle (and a Select Bookshelf)

As an avid reader, I’ve found that books can quickly contribute to clutter in my home. Switching to the Amazon Kindle has been a great way to enjoy endless reading without taking up physical space. It’s especially convenient for travel, and it helps me keep my living space tidy and organized.

That said, I still love the feel of a physical book, so I’ve curated a small bookshelf where I keep select titles that I truly want in hard copy. While I plan to slowly expand this collection, I’m mindful about what I add, focusing on books that hold special meaning or that I know I’ll revisit. This balance allows me to indulge my love for reading without overwhelming my space with unnecessary clutter.

The Peace That Comes with Letting Go

Living with clutter as a child gave me firsthand experience of how much our environment can affect our mental state. When I let go of the idea that more stuff equates to more happiness, I found a sense of peace and freedom that I had never experienced before. Now, my home is a sanctuary—a place where I can relax, focus, and truly enjoy the things that matter most.

Minimalism is not about deprivation; it’s about being mindful of what you bring into your life and making space for the things that truly bring you joy. If you’re looking to simplify your space and your life, I hope these tips and products will help guide you on your journey toward a more intentional, clutter-free lifestyle.