How to live like a minimalist as a family: Tips for family minimalism
Is it possible to live a minimalist lifestyle when you have a family? Young children? A partner who finds the concept of minimalism difficult to grasp? With Panda7's great tips, it is!
What is minimalism? Minimalism is about intentionally living with only the essentials—the items and possessions that support your ideal lifestyle. Excessive possessions in minimalism serve only as distractions, so we remove them to focus on what matters most. Minimalism can exist on any scale, but true minimalists are defined by intentionality: eliminating distractions and promoting what we value.
But how does this work with a larger family? With children, we need more possessions, so minimalism can seem like a distant dream. Panda7 is here to clarify: family minimalism is possible, it just takes work! Here are some family minimalism tips.
Show your children the concept and the "why" of minimalism
To get your family on board, you'll need to show them why minimalism is important. Young children, in particular, will struggle to grasp the concept, but they can learn. If you've taken the plunge into adopting a more minimalist lifestyle while your children are young, they're guaranteed to ask you questions about your change in habits. Let them be involved, answer their questions, and if they show an interest in your new minimalist habits, let them embrace it!
Minimalism seems simple at first, but it's actually quite a big concept. Introduce it slowly. For very young children, try picture books about decluttering and cleaning. Try to focus on the fun and excitement rather than making minimalism seem like just another chore.
Set an example for your family
Children don't practice what they don't know, so it's time you took the initiative and embraced your inner minimalist. Start with your own things. If something is more of a distraction than a service, it's gone!
You can begin your own minimalist journey by creating a list of things that aren't important to you—aka the "non-sentimental" list. By starting small, you can show your children (and even your partner!) that minimalism isn't difficult to practice. It can also help you teach your children how to manage the emotions that can accompany saying goodbye to your possessions, especially since you've experienced them yourself.
Remember: minimalism is a shared endeavor, not one that should be tackled alone.
Decluttering your entire home on your own can be difficult, which is why you should involve your partner and children! They all live in this space just like you, so they should be part of the journey. They should definitely go through all their belongings, but there are many shared items. A partner, especially one who struggles with the concept of minimalism, may need encouragement to get rid of items with more sentimental value.
Each family member should take the lead on their own assets, while shared assets and belongings should be divided among the bodies.
It is highly recommended that children begin to value their favorite items before their less precious possessions. This allows them to compare their feelings toward their most cherished belongings with those that may not spark as much joy. This connection helps children understand much more easily why we make such statements. For your family members, decluttering should not be seen as a chore or a negative experience. Nor is it a punishment. Decluttering should be about creating a space that fosters productivity, happiness, and clarity.
Reduce your habits at the root
It can be harder to get rid of your non-valuable possessions and constantly declutter if your shopping habits don't align with your minimalist ideals. Try shopping mindfully, which can help you curb your "retail therapy" habits and save you time, money, and energy. Why waste time decluttering when you can simply avoid buying unwanted items in the first place?
Ask yourself: Do you really need the item you're considering buying? Make a list before you go shopping and make sure you stick to it! Stores are often designed in such a way that our impulse control is reduced the moment we approach the registers. Stay strong and stick to your plan! If you see something you really like, try waiting 24 hours before deciding to buy it. If it's a much bigger purchase, wait up to 30 days. This can help you distinguish between an impulse buy and a genuine desire. Figure out where this item will fit in your home. If it feels unnatural, or doesn't seem like the right fit, it's not for you!
Draw up an inventory list of the houses
One of the most beneficial aspects of minimalist living, especially minimalist living with a family, is how easy it is to create a home inventory and compile documents, photos, receipts, and warranties for everything you own. Why is this important?
Well, if something has happened to your house, apartment, or condo, having a home inventory list can speed up the time it takes to receive your settlement after filing a claim. Let's say a fire breaks out and damages your home, destroying a good portion of your kitchen and living room. You can provide proof of your losses to your insurer by giving them your home inventory list (which, ideally, will be accompanied by photographic evidence and proof of purchase). This will help you receive those items, have them repaired, or receive a similar-quality replacement to compensate for your loss.
Discuss the benefits of a home inventory list with the friendly home insurance brokers at Panda7 today.