5 Things I've Learned in 5 Years of Living as a Minimalist

Five years ago this week, I made a choice to embrace minimalist living; a choice that changed my life.

I was at home with my kids, drowning in stuff, and not the present, happy mom I wanted to be. Then, I asked myself a question…

What would my life be like with less stuff?

I decided to find out.

I let go of 75% of my possessions and stopped buying more because I realized I didn't need more. The lightness I felt was immediate.

I started smiling more at home, really engaging with my family, found time for a hobby I loved, and felt like myself again.

I share my journey here, because the choice to live with less stuff and more peace is one you can absolutely make too.

Writing about minimalism holds me accountable to this lifestyle. Researching and reflecting on a life with less stuff ensures I won't go back to my compulsive-consumption-driven ways (listen to my story here). And also reminds me the things that make life rich aren't actually things at all.

I've gleaned many lessons over the past five years of living as a minimalist, but wanted to share five of my favorites here today.

Here are 5 things I've learned from 5 years of minimalist living:

Read the full article here!

Julia Ubbenga is a freelance journalist whose teachings on minimalism, simplicity, and intentional living have reached thousands of people worldwide through her blog. Julia also practices what she preaches in her Kansas City home. She resides with her husband, two extremely lively young daughters, three-year-old son, and baby girl. You can also find her on Instagram.