The Smantry Guide to Minimalism: Why Minimalism?

Why is it worth living minimally? Does minimalism truly bring happiness? Do I have to give up everything I enjoy? These questions often arise in this context. The core idea of minimalism is that less is more. This is true, but it doesn't mean you have to give up everything, especially things that bring you joy and happiness.

More of the Right Things

Minimalism doesn't mean you must live in a sparsely furnished apartment with only a chair, a bed, and perhaps a table. It's about consciously choosing to do without certain things. Clothing is a good example. Fast fashion companies release up to 24 collections a year, produced under sometimes inhumane conditions and causing significant environmental damage.

The average consumer buys around 60 pieces of clothing annually, but these are worn only half as long as before due to the poor quality of fast fashion. Many have items in their closets that have never been worn.

Fashion is a double-edged sword

While wanting to look trendy, I prefer buying secondhand clothes or wearing what I have until it falls apart. When purchasing new items, I aim for high quality and sustainability, though this is challenging.

Saving Money Through Minimalism

Minimalism involves consciously foregoing certain items, which alters our approach to consumption. We often buy things we don't need. For example, I'm easily swayed by attractive packaging, leading to purchases that soon end up as waste due to poor quality or lack of necessity. The pandemic illustrated this: many people decluttered extensively during lockdowns, overwhelming secondhand stores and donation centers, while online shopping surged, making delivery trucks as full as they are during Christmas.

Minimalism doesn't mean you have to give up everything that brings you joy. It's about consciously questioning your consumption: "Do I really need this, or do I just want it because it's trendy?"

For 2024, I've decided to limit my clothing consumption. I'll wear what I already have (and my closet is really full) and buy secondhand if I need something new. Keeping a budget book might help you track expenses and see how much you save by consuming less and more mindfully.

How can the Smantry App help with minimalism?

Food waste is a global issue, with countless items discarded annually due to spoilage or nearing expiration dates. The Smantry App aims to combat this by making it simple to track your food inventory and expiration dates. By assigning storage locations and monitoring expiration dates, you can use items before they go bad, avoid duplicate purchases, and save money. This helps prevent "cupboard clutter" and ensures you use ingredients efficiently.