Let me first debunk the idea that minimalists are sterile, uninspired, cleaning robots. That their only goals are to have next to nothing and reach some perfect “zen”. And they disapprove of others that don’t live as they do. That is no life and that is not the type of lifestyle I’d ever want to lead.

My goal in minimalism is to have: creative space, beauty, life, and laughter. Not a white-walled, zero attachment, cliche existence. Let me assure you, it is not. Yet, the term “minimalism” is, for sure, overused in our society. Regardless of how the trends ebb and flow, all that is happening is a fight for more life with less distraction. Life more geared into going, doing, and living. Not life stuck, home broke and surrounded by all your stuff feeling discontent.

“Homes are made for people, people aren’t made for homes”

My goal in living a more minimal lifestyle is so that my home is a safe haven for whoever comes through our door. Creating a space that is fresh, purposeful, relaxed, and authentic.

Our family of five lives in an 1100 square foot home, a tiny house for all intensive purposes. We have two closets outside of the usual small clothing closets in our rooms. Our home is an open concept, we have no choice, but to live strategically, and we love it. Some days it makes me want to scream. But that tends to happen when I know it’s time to reevaluate our physical possessions and priorities. Once we do, we can breathe again. We have rearranged our home more in six months than most humans do in a lifetime. We will always strive for efficiency of our living space. We exchange less clutter for more warmth and togetherness. Through this, I have found that people enjoy coming to our house. They leave inspired and refreshed. They can bear their hearts, and rest in the atmosphere of less.

Minimalism is a constant battle. It looks different for everyone. There is no one formula to minimalism. For us, it’s to clear space in our home and in our hearts. We fall into a wonderful rhythm when we focus on what is most important in this life. For us, it is God and our relationships.

“Keep your life free from the love of money, and be contented with what you have, for He has said, I will never leave you, nor forsake you”

‍Hebrews 13:5

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What an incredible promise. We choose to use what we have for His glory and not have things dictate our full life in response to Christ. It’s a process. You’ll never reach that perfect “zen”. But that’s what makes being a “minimalist” such an inspiring challenge.