Learning to Love Minimalism

In my quest to slow down and relax - I've started to learn more about minimalism. I signed up for Highbrow - an on-line learning web site that e-mails you once daily on a topic of your choice. This service is completely free and the 'lessons' only take about 5 minutes to read.
The lessons on Minimalism have re-enforced my goals of organization and has kept me from making the piles I used to make and the dishes I didn't put away.

Here's what I've learned so far and what I am focusing on to become more like a Minimalist!
Learn to love less. Instead of buying a lot of clothes why not learn to cull your wardrobe into a few quality, beautiful pieces that you can wear often and enjoy more. Those high quality pieces will last longer and in the end you might even save money. Instead of buying lots of low quality items that you can only wear a couple of times, you'll have amazing pieces that will last for years.

Minimalism should also be incorporated in your use of technology and television. Learn to need less television, social media, etc. When you watch TV or go on-line spend enough time to get the information or the entertainment you need, but then step away.
"When you focus on enjoying less, you focus on full enjoyment. You learn to be content with little, and when you do that, a life of happiness is at your disposal."

Here's a simplified process of becoming a minimalist.

1. Stop buying unnecessary things. (You'll save money and have less clutter!)
2. Get rid of the obvious things. Stuff that's getting in the way.
3. Get rid of more obvious things.
4. Clear the clutter on your floors.
5. Clear other flat surfaces. (Stop making piles!!!)
6. Start going into your closets and drawers. (Donate things you never use or wear) I've been using thredUp, a consignment web site, to sell some of my nicer clothing that I no longer wear. You'll get $20 when you sign up through this link!: http://www.thredup.com/r/NYDF2Z
7. Start letting go, emotionally. (Keep memories, ditch the stuff)
8. Get rid of more things.

The process will never end, continue to let go, minimize clutter and stop buying things you really don't need. The degree to which you become a minimalist is up to you. :)

"The secret of happiness, you see, is not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less." 
- Socrates

Thanks for reading,