If you know someone who is a minimalist or perhaps you live with one, here are some ways to show them kindness on World Kindness Day and beyond.
Image courtesy of Pixabay
Don’t poke fun at their lifestyle: As with any lifestyle choice, it’s not fun or fair to mock someone’s beliefs and morals. This way of life may not work for you and you might not understand it, but they clearly get value from living with less so what’s the harm? You have also made choices about how to live that they might not agree with, but they love you for it all the same. Extend them the same courtesy.
Ask them questions: If you can’t get your head around why someone would want to live so simply, try to understand it from their point of view. It’s likely that something was the catalyst for paring down their possessions so instead of making assumptions- ask them what their motivations were for starting on this journey. You may be surprised at the answer.
When it comes to gift giving celebrations ask them what they want: As Christmas is around the corner this is the perfect time to create some dialogue around this holiday. They may need something specific, they may want an experience or they may simply say ‘nothing’. If this is the case, they won’t be offended if you don’t give them anything- they weren’t paying lip service when you asked- they meant it. In fact they will probably be more grateful to just enjoy the day.
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Show an interest: If you are intrigued by this way of life, ask them questions about it, find out what their inspiration was and how they keep on track now. They may be able to recommend a really good book or show that can give you the information you seek and to see how other people interpret the lifestyle as it’s not the same for everyone.
Ask them for their help: If you are looking to pare down some items in your home, they are probably the best person you could ask to walk you through the process. They may be flattered that you want them to be involved. If they are keen, set aside some time to talk about where it is you want to declutter and what you expect from the result so they have a clear picture of what it is you desire for your space.
Don’t make assumptions: There are so many images out there that supposedly encapsulate the minimalist aesthetic, however the truth is- no two minimalists are the same. If they define themselves as a minimalist, don’t automatically think that they want to live in a space made entirely of white walls and furnishings and wear only monochrome. Minimalism has many variations and it’s up to the individual how they define it. Some people live with a specific amount of items while others just try to live with the things they need and what makes their space look beautiful. To find out how the minimalist in your life defines it- just ask them.
Don’t call them unsentimental: This is one of the worst things you can call a minimalist because it encourages negativity around the lifestyle which is the last thing it’s trying to create. If this person doesn’t hang onto physical possessions they are not cold, heartless or a bad person. It just means they like to keep their memories in a different format. Perhaps digitally, or with one item as opposed to many or maybe they like to lock their memories away in their mind and think about them often. Everyone has a different way of being sentimental and it isn’t defined by having lots of stuff.
Be kind to the minimalist in your life and they will show kindness in return for how you choose to live your life. Being kind paves the way for new conversations, for learning new things about the people we share our lives with and for opening ourselves up to things we never thought we would.
Happy World Kindness Day to you all!
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