We’ve spent the last six weeks talking about how we can practice minimalism. It’s time to talk more about the payoffs. There are many payoffs: time, money, space. Today, we’ll discuss one big payoff of minimalism.
Minimalism and simple living help us save money, no doubt. Living with less also helps us save time. Time and money lead to the one big payoff of minimalism: developing better relationships with loved ones.
It’s A Simple Equation
Making a point to live with less leads to more financial freedom. When you have smaller payments, you can afford to work less. You can spend more time with your family and friends. Would you like to do the following activities with your family?
- Take longer vacations.
- Spend afternoons together.
- Be together for important events.
- Have special date nights.
- Walk and ride bikes together.
- Play more games.
- Go hiking and snowshoeing.
In today’s fast-paced, hard-driven world, this one big payoff is wonderfully welcome. I’m a single dad with an 11-year old daughter. I have a career in education. But by living more simply than many Americans, I’m able to have more time for Annie. I’m proud to say:
- I’ve always been able to get her to and from school (with occasional help).
- I’ve been there for all her extracurricular activities.
- I’ve practiced karate with her for 7 years.
- I make it to all of her school events and concerts.
- I’ve been to all of her cross country meets.
- I’ve taken two vacations with her every year.
- We’ve spent quality time with grandparents.
The list goes on, but I think you get the idea. Less really does equal more. Living more simply allows me to spend time where it counts: with my daughter. That’s one big payoff.
More Reading On Families And Minimalism
No matter your family status, ask yourself these questions:
- Do I want more time with my partner? When you work to support a higher status of living, you have little time for developing intimate relationships.
- Do I want more time with my kids? You may not have kids, but you might someday. If you set up your life to be simple today, you’ll be the best parent possible tomorrow.
- Do I want more time for friends? As we get older we get so busy we seem to leave behind friends. You can keep those relationships alive if you keep your life simple.
Are You Ready For The One Big Payoff?
If you’re ready for more time with family and friends, I encourage you to look at your schedule. Cancel any non-essentials. Consider downsizing your home or car to save money. Spend some time reading more about minimalism.
