Money and minimalism, where to start? Well, I’ve been thinking about it a lot lately. Mainly because I want to enjoy my money, but also stash away enough to take care of myself. I’m basically obsessed with money for all the right reasons. Are there right reasons when it comes to money? In my opinion, yes! Money is something you can use to get to where you want or need to be. Instead of seeing money as the great big evil, I like to see it as an amazing means to an end. And I love to use money and minimalism together to optimize my life. Let’s dive into that!
Money and minimalism
Most of us know that money is often a touchy subject. You either have enough, more than enough or none at all. People with a lot of money are often looked at as evil beings. The ones scrambling for cash are seen as poor. Minimalism is experienced different by everyone, but the bottom line is the same: Only buy and use things you really need and truly love. Keep what you actually use and value, toss or give away the rest. This helps you focus on the important things in life. Because the ‘happy’ feeling stuff gives you, only lasts a short while.
When it comes to minimalism, I see a lot of people cranking down on their spending. They seem to become anxious about spending a euro, or a dollar if you will. In my opinion that’s not the way money and minimalism should work together. I started minimalism about three years ago, because I caught myself filling up my life with stuff. Instead of filling it with experiences, people, animals and things that actually make me happy. I needed money to do all of this, and that’s why I see money and minimalism as the perfect combo.
Save money, spend money
I save money for later, but I also spend a healthy amount on creating a lifestyle that suits me. I think it’s good to find a healthy balance and (money) mindset that fits your life. Practicing minimalism has helped me save a lot of money. I’m able to buy everything I need on a monthly basis without breaking the bank. This helped me spend more money on my company, which is something I really want to invest in. After all, live is about living it the way you like it. And there’s nothing wrong with spending money to do so.
I’m not saying you should spend all the money you saved by cutting out unnecessary things immediately. I do think it’s wise to invest it in things that actually bring you joy and a better quality of life. For some people that’s a good bed to sleep in. For others it might be traveling, getting a pet or taking care of family. In other words, it’s a good idea not to let minimalism restrict you to the point where you feel like you can’t spend money. Minimalism isn’t about living an uncomfortable life, it’s about improving it by using less unnecessary items.
Healthy money mindset
I don’t where the negativity around money came from, but it’s here in this world. I personally never felt mad, bad or anxious about money. It actually always makes me happy, because I know it’s a means to an end. More money means more opportunities. I personally think it’s good to figure out why you have the money mindset you have. Do you have it because of fear, habit, societies grasp on you, or a certain experience? Figure it out and turn it into something positive.
Don’t let some pieces of paper and coins take over a positive outlook on your finances. A healthy bank account and a relaxed grip on your money is good. When it comes to money and minimalism, people sometimes seem to take it to extreme lengths. They start saving on everything, even the little things they really enjoy. Does saving €3 on a coffee to go really make you feel better? I personally don’t think you should sweat the small gifts you give yourself. It’s better to make long term changes that give you peace of mind for years to come.
Money and minimalism, what now?
My advice on money and minimalism is this: Use money to create a minimal life you truly love. Don’t start taking financial advice from everyone. Assess your own needs, wants, wishes and lifestyle first. Then dive into your finances and figure out what comes in, and what comes out. Figure out which services, subscriptions and products you’re paying for. Think about which ones you want to get rid of and do it! Set up an automatic saving system so you don’t even have to think about saving money.
Start saving money by eliminating things you don’t really like and love. Put the money that frees up in your savings account and enjoy the rest. Don’t feel bad about buying that delicious Matcha latte once in a while. Let’s be honest, that doesn’t really break the bank, does it? My point is that minimalism is never meant to make you feel uncomfortable about enjoying the (small) luxuries life has to offer. Minimalism is a mindset, which helps you to focus on what is important to you, whatever that is. And that’s what you spend your money on.
What is your (minimal) money mindset? Let me know in a comment below,
Kaya-Quintana
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