A brave person's guide to minimalist living

Tue Sep 05, 2017 · 1 min read

How to start

Acquire neon sticky notes, plastic tabs, bright ribbon, or another such non-permanent marking tool.

Begin immediately. Over the next two weeks, apply a marker to each item you use. Tools, appliances, cutlery, furniture - everything. Pin markers to the clothing items you wear once you’ve worn them, or separate those items in a bin or basket.

After two weeks, box up everything that doesn’t have a marker on it. Set aside the boxes in an out-of-the-way, or better yet, out-of-sight location.

If your boxed up things include items used in a different season, let them remain boxed until that season. When that season arrives, remove items that you require from the boxes only as you require them.

After three months, donate or sell all the boxed items.

How to continue

Don’t purchase any goods unless they will be consumed in the next two weeks, or you’re replacing an item you currently have.