Opinions of Tuesday, 5 September 2017

Columnist: Mimi Vanderpuye

Less clutter, more space…..

In the end, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. In the end, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

We’ve all probably heard the word “minimalism” or seen pictures that depict the concept. Lately, there has been a lot of fuss about minimalism and it seems as though the masses are starting to appreciate this seemingly trending lifestyle.

The real question is, do we all know what being a minimalist entails or we’ve all just jumped onto the bandwagon? 
This article’s main focus is on minimal interior design; but before we delve into that, we need to understand what minimalism really is. 

What is minimalism?

Minimalism is the deliberate fostering of the things which we need and value most and the elimination of all others that distract us from it. Simply put, we need to own and possess things that actually just matter and be rid of excesses. Less is more.
Today’s modern culture has forced the majority into believing that possessing a lot makes one’s life better and puts you on a certain high ranking on the social ladder.

Unfortunately, most people have become slaves to entitlements, approval and material possessions. This is exactly what minimalism is the opposite of. It promotes the most important aspects of our lives and concurrently reducing the noise surrounding it.
To be a true minimalist, one must be free from the desire to possess.

A minimalist’s room

Okay! On to the fun part. By now, I’m certain most people are judging from what they’ve read that, minimalists are boring and upon entering into one’s room, all you’ll see is a plain colored wall and a tiny table in the corner. Well, most pictures on the internet show us that so… Yah! Our homes are places where we spend most of our time and they’re sometimes indicators of the kind of life we really live.

Minimalists own pretty things too, just in moderation. Beautiful paintings, a monochrome color scheme (my eyes are actually tearing from imagining this), and neatly arranged spaces *inserts emoji with hearts as eyes*…. You really wouldn’t want more once you decide to go minimal.

I am super obsessed with the idea of having stuff neatly arranged to create more space. Like….how do you even sleep at night with all the junk? 

There are so many benefits of being a minimalist and the proper organization of items is the least of it. The rooms are classy, things are easy to find and let’s not even talk about the inner peace you get. Having a junk free room with everything in right proportions and in their right places is therapeutic.
Yes, it’s very deep and I’m speaking from the deepest part of my heart.
 
Minimalism is a process and shouldn’t be rushed. Try the less clutter approach. You can start by donating clothes you don’t use anymore or ones that you own but you know deep down that you’ll never wear.

Arrange your stuff neatly. And as much as possible, avoid extras. In the end, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

I wish you a happy, healthy clutter-free life!