Longterm Minimalist Planning: Are You Ready?

You may not be ready to give up all your stuff and live like a monk. Each of us has our own life situation. I own a home. I’m raising a kid. I live simply, but I’m not quite as minimalist as I’d like to be. That’s okay. Consider longterm minimalist planning.

Before we go too far, I’d like to remind you of something. There are no guarantees in life. We could make longterm plans today, only to get hit by a semi truck while texting a friend, tomorrow. (Note: don’t text while you’re crossing the street.) That’s why it’s important that we always live for today. Be in the moment. Keep being productive.

Becoming A Minimalist Is Not Instantaneous

I started out with very little as a young adult. Essentially, I lived a minimalist lifestyle until I was in my mid 30s. But let’s face it. Life happens. I went to college and started my career. I bought a car, got married, had a kid, and bought a house. Now I find myself with more than I really want. But that’s okay. I still have a minimalist mindset.

If you’d like to simplify your life, it’s important to start with a minimalist mindset. This mindset will keep you thinking about longterm planning. Here are some things that come with a minimalist mindset:

Always be critical before making purchases.
Continually consider what you don’t need and give to charity.
Buy quality products made to last a lifetime.
Constantly work on eliminating debt.
Buy compact items when possible.
Limit the size of your wardrobe.
Drive an economical car.
Make a point to get regular exercise and eat healthy.
Consider ways you can downsize in the future.

Next, Have A Longterm Minimalist Plan

So, right now is not the perfect time for me to downsize. I have an 11-year-old girl to get through high school and into college. My mortgage still has 26 years remaining. Selling wouldn’t be a financially wise decision at this time. A home requires work. That requires more stuff: small truck, lawnmower, yard tools, painting supplies, etc. I can’t just give everything away. Still, I have a vision for my longterm minimalist future:

Sell my house in 5-10 years.
Find a location with easy access to my needs.
Buy a home or condo that’s half the size (500-700 square feet).
Let go of 50% of my stuff.
Eliminate all debt.
Use a bicycle and public transportation. (Have a car only for backup.)
Minimize my wardrobe by another 25-40%.
Limit musical equipment to two or three instruments.
Spend more time doing the things I want to do.
Keep promoting simple living.

Do You Have A Longterm Minimalist Plan?

I know that minimalism doesn’t work the same for everyone. I can’t live as minimalist as I’d like at this time in my life. But I have a longterm plan.

What about you?

Have you taken the time to start making a minimalist plan for your future? I encourage you to sit down and answer these questions: