Rich in What Matters - Minimalism as a Tool

After adopting a minimalist lifestyle, I frequently read about the lives of other minimalists.

I devoured books and articles about minimalists who lived in the ancient world (think 400 BC), modern-day minimalists, and everyone in between.

Their lives were highly inspiring and left me with a greater resolve to let go of unneeded, unused possessions. But soon, I realized their lives shared a commonality that went deeper than simply living with less.

Minimalism—living with fewer possessions—wasn't their end goal. It was a tool to better carry out their life's purpose.

They had a mission. And excess possessions were distractions as they solved world problems and pursued a bigger purpose in life. A life of less stuff meant a life of more focus and meaning.

And it can for you too.

Here are four minimalists who used minimalism as a tool.

May reading a snippet about their lives inspire you to live an intentional, purpose-filled life with less.

1. Socrates

In 400 BC, the ancient Greek philosopher, Socrates, wandered barefoot along the streets of Athens. He wore a single, rough woolen garment in all seasons, and held no interest in money, fame, nor power.

His mission was to examine his fellow citizens through public questioning and persuade them that the most important good for a human being was the health of the soul.

“The unexamined life is not worth living,” he stated.

And, “The secret of happiness, you see, is not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less.”

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Julia Ubbenga is a freelance journalist whose teachings on minimalism, simplicity, and intentional living have reached over 1M 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 Facebook.