"My family is not into minimalism, what do I do?" or "I cannot practice minimalism at home because my family is not into it at all" are common questions I hear.
As a minimalist generalist, here's everything you need to know:
- You do not need your family, roommates or friends to be into minimalism to practice minimalism.
- You can practice minimalism without it being a family activity.
- Whether you like it or not you must respect your family members if they do not wish to indulge in a practice they cannot relate with.
Why does my family not like minimalism?
Irrespective of where you live on planet earth there arises the possibility that your family does not like minimalism and it can be for various reasons.
Looking at my experiences as well as that of others I have talked to, it boils down to a few certain things.
Items have sentimental or emotional value attached to them.
Family members do not want to let go of physical items that are of significant emotional or sentimental value to them.
And they are right to do so.
When "less is more" becomes "less is disheartening."
"Less is more" is a common saying among minimalists and designers but less can be disheartening for some family members.
- A family member might have tried hard to afford something; asking them to recycle or throw it away will only upset it.
- In some cases, the home feels empty if it is not 'decorated.' The idea of decorating interiors with items may seem like clutter to you but to them it means an empty house.
- Weak social signals - family members are afraid that neighbours will assume that items are being pawned off to compensate for a lack of money.
Your family members can be absolute hoarders.
Yes, this is the part you are relieved to read: it's certainly them, isn't it?
Those in your family might love to hoard onto items, collect them and store them for who knows when.
The common excuse is "you never know when you might need it."
This means that this habit of hoarding strays your family away from minimalism and it's also where you try to give wisdom around why it's great for them.
Why does my family not understand minimalism?
To sum it up: change is difficult.
You cannot expect someone to change their lifestyle overnight.
You might have a few wins with minimalist approaches and use it as a "I told you so" but that will further add friction to adoption.
I cannot have anything minimalist inside my house because my family is pro-hoarding and the concept of a healthy home to them comes from the idea of having every time needed even if it is not in usage for years.
How to convince my family to get into minimalism?
Do not convince your family to get into minimalism. A sudden lifestyle change like this will severely impact them.
Consistently asking them to get onboard will only frustrate them and create hesitancy in adopting it.
Lead by example when it comes to minimalism.
First, don't force them. Second, lead by example as a minimalist.
Here are some things I do:
- Take out unwanted items I own then recycle it.
- Reduce screen time on my devices.
- Maintain clean, minimalist spaces.
After that, it's down to your family to follow or forget.
Things not to do when trying to get your family into minimalism
- Don't force them to join your initiative.
- Don't exaggerate the benefits of a minimalist lifestyle.
- Do not ask them to watch videos, podcasts or content around minimalism.
- DO NOT sell, recycle or donate items that belong to them. It is their property. Do not damage their items either so that you can find reasons to give it away.
There are reasons why people do not like certain things and it is necessary that you do not do anything haphazard that feels like a pain for others to be a part of.
Minimalism starts with doing less to achieve more and you can do it independently without having to make it a fun task for everyone involved.
I understand that the need to teach others minimalism stems from wanting the best for them but on the contrary not everyone always wants to learn.
It is not a failure on your end if you cannot teach minimalism or help family members adopt it.
Over time, people who see benefits the same as you will also want to get into minimalism. It might just not be family or friends.
If you are looking for people who are into minimalism, it is best to join communities and groups who believe actively in the pursuit of a minimalist lifestyle.
I am Anthony and I am a minimalist generalist helping brands and people adopt minimalist lifestyles to stay productive.
If you want someone to talk to you can reach out to me on X or Instagram: @anthonysmendes
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