16 Lessons Minimalism Has Taught Me Over the Last 16 Years

Sixteen years ago today, on what seemed like a typical Saturday morning in Vermont, I was introduced to minimalism. It was 2008 over Memorial Day Weekend, and Kim and I had planned our usual spring cleaning. I volunteered to clean the garage, hoping to include my five-year-old son in the project. His enthusiasm lasted a mere 30 seconds, leaving me alone with the clutter.

As I sorted through the dusty mess in my garage by myself, frustration mounted. My son kept asking me to play with him in the backyard, but I was determined to finish the task at hand.

A conversation with my neighbor, who just happened to be tending to her own yard at the same time, changed everything. When I commented on the time-consuming garage project, she remarked, “That’s why my daughter is a minimalist. She keeps telling me I don’t need to own all this stuff.”

I glanced at the pile of items in my driveway and then at my son, swinging alone in the backyard. In that moment, I had a revelation: My possessions weren’t bringing me joy. Worse yet, they were stealing my time, energy, and attention from the very things that did.

This pivotal conversation changed my life forever. Over the following nine months, my wife and I eliminated 60-70% of our belongings. To this day, I can’t think of a single negative consequence from embracing minimalism. Instead, it has enriched our lives in countless ways.

Now, 16 years later, as I reflect on our journey, I’m especially emotional and thoughtful. This Memorial Day weekend holds special significance as my youngest daughter graduated high school this week and is preparing for college. Our minimalist journey began when my children were just 5 and 2, and now, as Kim and I embark on a new season of life, I find myself reflecting on the lessons minimalism has taught me.

16 Lessons Minimalism Has Taught Me Over the Last 16 Years

1. Happiness isn’t found in possessions.

Since the day we were born, advertisers have bombarded us with the message that happiness can be bought. This is the essence of every ad we encounter—that our lives will improve if we buy their products. Minimalism has taught me that true happiness doesn’t come from accumulating things. It stems from faith, relationships, selfless acts, and living according to our values.

2. Live differently if it brings you joy.

Society often pushes us toward bigger homes, nicer cars, and the latest fashions. The pressure to conform is immense. But minimalism has shown me that it’s okay to live differently. In fact, choosing a path less driven by consumerism has brought more joy, satisfaction, meaning, and fulfillment.

3. Live within your means.

Regardless of future income levels, minimalism has underscored the importance of not overspending in pursuit of happiness. Overspending leads to stress and unnecessary burdens. Contentment comes from appreciating what you have and enjoying simple pleasures.

4. Be deliberate in your purchases.

Minimalism has taught me to carefully consider each new purchase. Important questions arise: “What do I truly need? What do I already have that will suffice? Is this purchase necessary?” This intentionality is invaluable.

5. Generosity flows from minimalism.

Simplifying our lives has naturally led to generosity. We’ve decluttered and donated items, and used our resources to help others. Starting The Hope Effect to support orphaned children has shown me the power of using time and money to solve problems and make a difference. And minimalism allowed it to happen.

6. Time together is priceless.

With fewer possessions to manage, we’ve had more time as a family. The greatest gift we can offer is our time. The memories we’ve created together are irreplaceable, and I cherish them deeply—especially now as the leave the home.

7. Be in control of your stuff, not the other way around.

The more things you own, the more they own you. Minimalism has taught me that I don’t have to be burdened by my possessions. I control what I keep and what I let go.

8. Avoid trends and fads.

In a world obsessed with trends and fads, minimalism has helped me value timeless quality over temporary hype. This confidence in my choices has been liberating.

9. Offer more to the world than being a consumer.

Every day is full of opportunities to positively impact others. These opportunities far surpass making money and buying things. Minimalism has shown me that true worth isn’t defined by the possessions I buy and own, but by the unique talents and abilities we contribute.

10. Impress with character, not purchases.

Minimalism has taught me that character, kindness, and integrity impress more than any material possession. A positive lifestyle that brings good into the world is universally respected and admired!

11. Live for things greater than this world.

My Christian faith has significantly influenced how I live out minimalism. There are eternal pursuits and temporal pursuits. Given the choice, the eternal always holds more value.

12. Discover the beauty of simplicity.

Living with less has revealed the beauty of simplicity. There is calm in a focused life and immense opportunity for passion and fulfillment in the freedom and opportunity that comes from not being overwhelmed by stuff.

13. Be resourceful.

Minimalism has fostered creativity by teaching me there’s more than one way to solve a problem. This resourcefulness has been invaluable. Every time someone now asks me, “But what if I get rid of something I end up needing,” I respond by saying, “You’ll be surprised how many ways there are to solve a problem.”

14. Prioritize experiences over things.

Our family has chosen to spend money on experiences rather than things. Research supports that spending on experiences leads to more happiness. The memories we’ve created have been deeply enriching.

15. See beyond competition.

Minimalism has helped me appreciate the benefits of cooperation and encouragement over competition. It has paved the way for more selfless living—working hard to uplift others.

16. Live intentionally.

Above all, minimalism has taught me to live intentionally. Making choices based on values and priorities, rather than societal expectations, has been the greatest lesson. This intentionality has guided me through life, bringing purpose and meaning.

Reflecting on these past 16 years, I am profoundly grateful for the journey minimalism has taken me on. It has not only transformed my life but has also prepared me for the next chapter as my children embark on their own journeys. And the lessons learned will continue to shape my values and inspire me to live the best life possible.