What started as a simple closet clear-out transformed into more than I expected. The idea of paring down my wardrobe to better align with my values was so simple, it hit me right between the eyes. These were rules for living.
Over the last six months I’ve been a quest to adopt a more minimalist lifestyle and perspective, including my wardrobe. One of the tools I’ve been using is a neat little online workbook titled, The Minimalist Wardrobe. Its stated mission: “To help you be more with less by aligning your values with your wardrobe.”
At first glance, that statement made me chuckle. It’s a very lofty aspiration for what I thought was essentially an honest, thorough closet clean out. Boy, was I wrong.
Here is what I’ve discovered. The guideposts for achieving a minimalist wardrobe are also very applicable, relevant, straightforward guideposts for life. At the heart of both is the desire to live a high quality, carefully curated life that aligns with the core of who you are as a person.
The Minimalist Guideposts (as expanded by me):
Quality over quantity
This applies to all influences in our lives. Food, friends, memberships, social activities, etc. Choose what is the right fit for your value system. Ensure that your choices are in synch with each other, and you aren’t compromising to please others, or to make others happy.
Own your style
Step into who you are and own your potential. Align to what holds true to your core, not the latest trend or fad in terms of job, education, mindset. Know what you believe in and stand for it without compromise while respecting the thoughts, beliefs, and opinions of others.
Your closet reflects your life
Translated into real world living: Walk the talk. Remember your actions speak to your character. As my father advised me when I was a 10-year-old kid, “If you don’t want it published on the front page of the newspaper tomorrow, you probably shouldn’t be doing it.”
So, you’re armed with the guideposts. Now what? Perform a life audit, clean out what doesn’t resonate, and surrounded yourself only with what aligns to your vision and values. Remember, with less “stuff” your life to distract, your perspective will naturally broaden to incorporate more appreciation, gratitude, and purpose.
