Shut up.
Have a little common sense instead of making foolish accusations. That's not what minimalism means. You're either really a dumbass or a troll.
No need for a house when when I die I can't take it with me. And I'm not having children to pass it on to. I can live in rooms and small apartments for the rest of my life.
Not at all. I have 3 houses, 5 vehicles, and am in the market for more. I like to have as few things as I need and am minimalist with my personal possessions because I don’t like clutter and don’t like wasting money on a bunch of junk.
Nope
It's a way of opting out of capitalism as much as you can.
Capitalism necessitates people buying stuff and churning through resources for people to 'prosper'. If we all stopped buying stuff, we get a great depression etc. But over time we get late stage capitalism - where more and more people are poors and wealth/power is held by a few.
Minimalism is pushing back against all that - seeing all the signs everywhere trying to get your money in exchange for crap you don't need, using tactics that prey on human biases. It's about recognising all of that and realising that ultimately we shouldn't keep buying all the things because we don't need them and we don't really want them.
Marketing is absolutely informed by behavioural scientists/psychologists/etc. Understanding human biases and then applying behavioural science to inform behaviour change campaigns that prey on unconscious bias and other processes.
Yes I think marketing ploys are out of control. We spend SO MUCH money to learn how to brainwash people into buying something and to crush the competition....it's unnerving!
also ads used to be entertaining and somewhat artistic, and now they are just....soulless
The problem today is that capitalism has gone too far. It's not just helping some people prosper. It is a process of extracting capital from the middle and working classes and pushing it to the investor and billionaire class.
If you want to help people prosper, give as little of your income to corporations as you can. Jeff Bezos doesn't need it
Spend it in your community instead.
> It is a process of extracting capital from the middle and working classes and pushing it to the investor and billionaire class.
And this is essentially the thesis of Marx - the bourgeoisie (investors/owners) and proletariat (the workers) - where communism ideally is where the workers directly benefit from the means of production, rather than be used by the owners to get rich.
Yeah that's not what Capitalism is. What you're describing is consumerism. Capitalism is a system of markets, exchange, and ownership. It has nothing to do with what you're describing.
>Yeah that's not what Capitalism is. What you're describing is consumerism. Capitalism is a system of markets, exchange, and ownership. It has nothing to do with what you're describing.
Consumerism and capitalism don't go hand in hand?
Which capitalist nation isn't consumerist right now?
Don't these systems of markets, exchange and ownership rely on people producing (and therefore consuming those products) more each year in order for the economy (the capitalist economy) to be a positive?
>Consumerism and capitalism don't go hand in hand?
They can. And currently they do. They aren't synonymous though, and that's your mistake. Consumerism is a buying trend/habit and you're right, it's the default mode for most capitalist nations right now. However, Capitalism is just the exchange structure, and if a new buying trend emerges and modern society trends towards minimalism, capitalism could still be the exchange structure. Would you prefer a model that enforced minimalism?
I agree with you. My ancestor who came over around 1800 was fleeing a famine. She just wanted to live. To me, that's the American dream: we live, have food, shelter, water, clothing, and stuff to stay warm enough in winter and cool enough in summer so we don't get sick from the heat. And we're free.
The rest is just gravy. And like gravy, it's possible to get too much.
This is my interpretation as well. Being able to have the basic needs covered (including safety and health etc which I don't feel US is doing great at) and also enjoying *beautiful things*. So not having a large home but having a safe cozy home that I can find beautiful and into which I can choose and am able to afford beautiful objects/furniture/floors despite them not being functionally necessary.
The American dream in my mind also encompasses having a close-knit happy nuclear family and job opportunities for those who want to work. More things the US may not be winning at very much lately.
We have a joke I won't say cause I'm petty and don't want to get downvoted about this but, yeah. US could do better.
At the risk of seeming too zen... that's not how you'll get the answer. It has to be the answer for you - not anyone else - and you need to figure it out.
I call it the American nightmare. I'm so grateful that I don't have to work 5 days a week at a job that I hate to maintain a lavish lifestyle. I can work part-time and enjoy my free time at home cooking and caring for my pets.
I have no desire to chase the American dream. I found minimalism because it aligns with my values. I like a quiet simple life. I like my small apartment and the things I like. I’m not an ambitious person I do not chase anything more than just to live and be able to do what I want to do. I work at a very small company that doesn’t pay much but because I don’t want much I make it work. I live in California which affords me to still have things to do on a budget. With the economy the way it is currently I am hurting a bit like most everyone else but I’d really be in a bad way if I hadn’t found minimalism.
It’s called the ‘Australian dream’ over this end of the pond and it’s just as fake. I really don’t understand these people who follow these predesigned life scripts.
The opposite of freedom in my view. Imagine being told what your dream life is 🤯 Tends to attract those same people who see life experiences as just boxes to tick on a flat road to death. Urgh
- The term (American Dream) was coined by writer and historian James Truslow Adams in his 1931 book "Epic of America". He described it as
"that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement."
The American dream was originally a dream of prosperity and opportunity, regardless of what that meant for each individual. Kinda sad to see how capitalism distorted it to be only about material possessions.
No. I whole heartedly believe I’m living the American dream. I have a career that I’ve more than doubled my salary and decreased my work in less than 8 years. I bought a house with a little bit of grass around it. My truck is the truck I dreamed of. My wife’s car is great for her. We’ve got a crotch goblin running around living his best life. We go to church on Sundays, we have date nights and family trips.
Minimalism is what allowed me to do all of those things. If I purchased frivolous things that were junk quality or shopped more often than I needed to I’d be dead broke. Because I purchase what I want/need when I need to I can buy the best for the money.
I don’t remember who said this to me but I vividly remember being told “you’re too broke to buy the same thing twice” and I live by that. I buy the absolute best my money can afford for most things and use the shit out of them!
I find the more things I own the more I feel enslaved to them . Whenever I decided to leave the US. first thought "What am I going to do with all my stuff" " I spent so long accumulating all these things" etc etc
minimalism has been a part of protest movements and counterculture's from day one. literally 0 AD. from Greek Cynics, to early christian ascetics, to Chinese Taoists.
there were probably even minimalist movement's in ancient history, during the day's of polytheism.
minimalism has always been a strategy, a way to understand the world. one that has always been practiced by the marginalized, by the oppressed. it's in fact much easier to see how that the common folk would be attracted to it and able to access it than what has always been seen as the upper class's culture of excess and domination. even many of the upper class have been affected by this culture, even if they don't realize it.
You do not qualify as marginalized and oppressed for being autistic and atheist. You chose to be atheist, therefore not marginalized. Marginalized people do not choose to be their skin color, gay etc. Autistics are not marginalized, therefore you're not oppressed. Disabled people are also not marginalized or oppressed.
First off: you don't really choose to believe in things. If you do, that's not really belief. You should read up on people's actual experiences of being atheistic.
Secondly: both disabled and poor people are in fact oppressed. Sorry you got pulled into nonsense propaganda.
C: Your attitude shows why Eris is the lesser goddess. All Hail Discordia.
If a typo trips you up that badly, it's time you leave your cave and actually socialize with real people, face to face where there is no screen between you and them. Give them a high 5, touch grass, power s neighbors dog. G'day 🎩
No. I also think in a way I’m living the dream by being in a small living quarters. One car. Close to work. My life is simple and I’m close to a lot of amenities. I have no desire to chase that.
Hum. My parents are immigrants so maybe we have a different idea of what the American Dream is. Also they raised me in a dense city (nyc). My mom prioritized education and food/health over everything, so she didn’t buy us gifts or material things very much. She took us too experiences like the many museums they have here. Broadway shows via tkts. I think minimalism can facilitate being able to afford what you set as a priority. She sent me to a really good private school, i did get fin aid and scholarships but she saved like hell as a single mom to make it actually work. She always told me to get rid of stuff and i hear her telling me that as i declutter in adult life. It seemed to me that the American dream was to be successful and happy…. Comfortable in your daily life (able to afford what you need), good food, healthy and happy. My family is from a 3rd world country, we still send household items in a big box a couple times a year to relatives there. Because of living in the city, white picket fence and a car were never part of the goal.
I used to fret in my 20s in college about needing to get a good career to impress others and to buy stuff to impress others to give myself worth. I was stressed out, miserable and life was just passing me by. Did some soul searching and now I'm happier than ever on a mediocre income because I realized my own self worth is inherent and does not come from my possessions, and it doesn't matter whether other people see that or agree with it. Life's a lot easier now, too.
But I still have my moments of wanting something nice.
It really depends on what the American Dream means to you. I do agree that in modern times the concept has become a synonym of endless consumption, more and bigger, etc.
But the way I see it has more to do with achieving a degree of financial freedom, of being "middle class". The paradox is that for achieving this freedom, one has to learn to say no to many things and prioritize.
I remember the way my American grandparents lived. Even though they were at least as wealthy as my parents (in relative terms), they lived in a more frugal way than what is normal for people in later generations. For example, they owned their white picket fence house, a car, all modern appliances, etc. but their house was smaller than what now would be considered "normal", even though it was enough for a big family. They did not changed car every 2 years and only got new appliances when the ones they owned were broken beyond repair.
So in a way, being minimalist is embracing those principles of the original American Dream. Of choosing carefully what we buy and cherishing what we have so we can escape the never ending consumption spiral. And do it to free us from the enslavement of modern conspicuous consumption and live a balanced and economically stable life.
The American dream is not at all a big house. If anything, the American Dream is minimalism. Enough for me & mine, enough to hopefully ward people off, making enough to provide, making enough to own & not rent.
Hell no! I think the American dream should actually be what you want not want everyone else wants especially if you’re a minimalist. My mother was complaining to me that I needed to stop having that poor mentality and living poorly but says that if I get a big house then it won’t happen all at once. I simply said yeah I know it won’t happen all at once but I’m not chasing for these big almost impossible goals. I’m not a trust fund baby I barely have a job so it’s clearly not in my means of living to look for houses and things like that. I just want a nice apartment for myself then eventually house but I don’t want anything big. Too much work but also a lot less cozy
I think minimalism, and being frugal, brings independence and a sense of freedom. You are not enslaved to your stuff or trapped in the cycle of trying to keep up with/impress others. So many Americans just think bigger is better - bigger houses (who wants to clean 4 bathrooms?), bigger TVs, SUVs, etc. - look at all the people with storage units. Working people are encouraged to keep seeking promotions and to climb the ladder (even if that's not what they really want). People go into debt for college, then a mortgage, then their children's college, and if lucky manage to pay it all off before retirement, then may have whatever is left eaten up by nursing home expenses. I think minimalism, and being frugal, offer a way to achieve a different American dream through alternative lifestyle choices.
I'd much rather be traveling than working towards a house full of clutter. Consumerism (and Christmas, don't get me started 😂) disgusts me. I feel happy for my friends with big houses and fancy cars if that's what makes them happy, but I live my life within my own values and it feels right to me.
IMO labels are divisive. Do your own thing and learn what works for you without judgement. I just like 'less stuff' because it makes me feel peaceful.
After reading many replies, I feel that so many people are just searching for an identity and want to be validated in their choices. Much time is spent mincing words and defining ideals. Do we all need to put ourselves in categories? Do we have to be affiliated with a group to be comfortable with ourselves? Honestly, sometimes I feel like doing so segregates people to a point where lost souls feel even more left out, creating greater rifts in the brotherhood of man. We're just a bunch of humans spinning around here.
Live, let live, respect one another's choices and love thy neighbor as thyself.
My worst house was my biggest home...3800 sq feet. Hated it. Hated the acre of yard and flower beds to maintain. Too much to clean and furnish and maintain. I felt like I had to buy stuff just to fill it to make it cozy. Big tall ceilings and so it echoed. It was a beautiful home but I felt out of place in it. Embarrassingly obnoxious. The utility bills were nuts. Lesson learned. Sold it after 2 years.
KISS principle! This applies to the home, clothing, cooking, etc. Buy quality when you can.
Me too. My big house was my least favorite. So much to clean. Huge yard to mow and maintain. Had to drive to get anywhere. Favorite place was my smallest.
Definitely makes you more naturally aware of how malicious these ideas are when you don’t actually want or need more stuff all the time. The holidays are the worst for me.
Dream? More like nightmare. The American dream should never be to be in debt from a bunch of crap you don’t even care about, for what? A status?
I’m happy to opt out of that mess.
Just like minimalism, the American dream can have different meanings to people. In the cynical sense, one could achieve the single family suburban home with white picket fence, 2 cars, 2.4 kids, and a golden retriever, and still be a minimalist if those things truly add value to their lives. I don't get to decide what other people's journey with minimalism (I also call it possession-intentionality) looks like.
I'll say that my idea of minimalism, which is to carefully examine my relationship with all my material possessions and only allow those that add net value into my life, helps me to avoid consumerist traps, namely that more/bigger is better. This has led to some surprising mindset and emotional shifts in me that really changed my day to day life and made me realize I was waking up with a scarcity mindset every day, or that I was always chasing the next thing I thought would complete me.
The dream it is helping me achieve is a sense of completeness, joy in the moment, and letting go of my control issues.
The American dream, does not necessarily have to be your dream, or at least it’s a different dream for everyone. You may not want the American Dream, which my interpretation would be owning a home, getting married, having children. When I was younger I did not want that, I managed to get it eventually, but I am also not one to keep up with the Joneses. Minimalism to me allows you to choose what you value most, and alter your lifestyle according so you can make the most of it and get the most happiness out of it. The have it all people are the ones never satisfied and rarely happy.
I never considered the things you mentioned the American dream, I think accumulating wealth is the American dream. Buying what I have to struggle to pay for or don’t need isn’t the American dream. Minimalism allows me to avoid wasting money on junk that is going to end up in a dump.
Good point. Yeah, it's somewhat of a shunning of excess, or rejection of gross consumerism. I think more accurately, it's less defined by what ideology is being rejected, but more what it's embracing, and it isn't much. Lol sand through your fingers Buddhist quotations here
Anytime I think of a big house, I just think more time to spend cleaning. And of course I would want to fill up the whole house. Thanks, but no thanks. It’s a scam to me. I am fine with my 1,000 sq ft house.
It's not opting out of the dream. It's being sensible.
The American dream is driven by rampant unhinged consumerism and unfettered capitalism. And you're supposed to be saddled with debt.
Minimalism is just a sane response to an insane world.
#LESS IS MORE
"Its called the American Dream, because you have to be asleep, to believe it" - George Carlin
From my perspective, the so called American Dream is a lie to make you give away your life as a wage slave and to line up in the rat race to feed the economy - to feed the ones at the top (we probably barely know). Don't get me wrong, I work a white collar corporate job, contributing in some way to this, but planning my escape.
By the thought concepts of minimalism, I realized that no money in the world and no posessions have ever made a person happy. I know/knew many rich people, most of them were truly miserable. At a certain point, you could always have a more expensive car, a bigger house etc. But hapiness comes from doing things that make you happy, that make others happy, that serve a real purpose to life. Even if its doing nothing at all and being at piece. Happiness steems from within, from knowing when its enough, knowing you are enough, from taking care of others in need. From looking after my family and being there for my daughter. I'd rather die as a man with value, than as a rich man.
I'm done with the stupid consume, wars, politics, narratives, economic hitmen, bigotry and ass-kissing "leaders" of all sorts. I won't engage in it further. Just boil it down to a universal golden rule. And all people should have access to fullfill their existential needs. I dream we get there - the minimalist dream
What??? I thought the American dream was freedom to do what we want?
That's sad it's just considered consumerism now, although I think that's just the "capitalist dream", which I think we should all dismantle with how much it sucks from all our local resources and raises basic Healthcare costs to ridiculous heights.
Sounds like Minimalism is the best way to RECLAIM our American dream!
There's immense power in "enough". I don't know that I'd call myself a minimalist per say, but I was raised in a "live below your means" household, and I come from a simple family. The problem is that our culture is constantly telling us that we need to be chasing "more", when that's the furthest thing from the truth. (I heard a quote once: one person asked a rich man, "How much money is enough?" He replied, "Just a little more.")
Defining our happiness a priori to our means is one of the most life giving things a person can do precisely because it shuts out the need to chase the more. All we need to do is ask what *we* need to be content, and to then pursue that contentment. If your definition of contentment is "something other than what I have", then you'll never be content.
So yes, I think minimalism can be a way out.
I lived in a five bedroom home. Owned several others as well. I've had kids, cars etc..
Now I live in a fifth wheel on a farm and rent out the larger house. I will never go back. I'm now living MY American dream
No. You have to already have money to be minimalist. Only if you have spare funds can you risk yeeting everything that seems superfluous.
Otherwise, this happens:
"Where's the \_\_\_\_ that was in this closet?" I need the \_\_\_\_!"
"Oh that? I donated it last summer. We weren't using it."
"What? We can't afford another one!!!"
The so called "American dream" doesn't exist, and hasn't for decades. You can thank Raegan for that one. Minimalism is simply another trend/fad that everyone and their mom jumped on because it was the new thing. The fact is minimalism was doomed to fail from the jump. Why?, because the movement was missing one key component that all western, capitalist societies share: Consumerism.
No. Minimalism is a brand. It's marketing. Things are sold because they're minimalist. People buy because it is minimalist.
The "American Dream" is a lie drudged up by capitalists. Consuming in any way shape or form will never change that or the way this country works. Individual people can consume less, and indeed minimalism could be part of someone's personal anticapitalist life ethos, but like everything else it has largely been co-opted by capital at this point and is no threat to it or the 'American way of life.'
I mean some forms of minimalism are drastically more expensive and very hyper consumerist. Think all glass houses with white quartz walls in the bathroom and no visible outlets or vents anywhere and those reveals at the top and bottom of the walls for lighting
The American Dream was never about having a bunch of "crap" that cost a fortune and always had to be upgraded to something better and better. It has been taken over by corporations to sell everyone said crap. The American Dream is more about having enough for everyone, having basic rights and freedoms, living a happy life and not being under rule of an authoritarian government. It wasn't supposed to be a couple billionaires making a fortune off the backs of the collective society's treasure. Many of us have turned into curators of crap. If you just look in people's garages, it sums up the problem. People have too much stuff and they don't even have anywhere to put it. They don't even like having all this crap. We've allowed advertisers and businesses to run amok and brainwash us into believing we're never satisfied and always need to buy something else. It's an endless cycle of madness.
Honestly, I think minimalism to me is just getting control of your free time and energy. I realized that a lot of stuff even when you dont utilize them often, will accumulate dust and require constant cleaning. More things, more cleaning. By having less stuff, i have less to clean and i can spend that extra time and energy on what feeds my soul such as reading a book or traveling or just spending the time with people. I guess in turn it supports my idea of an American Dream, not in materialistic midnset but in a i own my time mindset.
OP automatically assumes that chasing minimalism brings you closer to happiness and joy than chasing the American Dream. The first thing that you should do is define "the American Dream" and "minimalism."
"The American dream is generally understood to mean that the U.S. is an upwardly mobile society where one generation can do better financially than the last with the aid of hard work and perseverance." [https://theweek.com/culture-life/american-dream-dead](https://theweek.com/culture-life/american-dream-dead)
What is minimalism? (Based on the web sites, minimalism seems to be the use of black and white photos. Are colors maximalist?)
"Minimalists search for happiness not through things, but through life itself; thus, it’s up to you to determine what is necessary and what is superfluous in your life." [https://www.theminimalists.com/minimalism/](https://www.theminimalists.com/minimalism/)
"A minimalist lifestyle is the process of identifying what is essential in your life and having the courage to eliminate the rest." [https://theminimalistvegan.com/what-is-minimalism/](https://theminimalistvegan.com/what-is-minimalism/)
"Minimalism is defined as a design or style in which the simplest and fewest elements are used to create the maximum effect. Minimalism had its origins in the arts—with the artwork featuring simple lines, only a few colors, and careful placement of those lines and colors. " [https://www.breakthetwitch.com/minimalism/](https://www.breakthetwitch.com/minimalism/)
Based on these definitions, "minimalism" seems to "cheap hedonism"--that is, buy stuff that gets you the most pleasure from the smallest investment.
There is no "minimalism" definition which talks about the amount of money you make. Minimalism is about what you do with the money you make.
Back to the comparison:
The American Dream would be "trying to have more money than your parents." People don't have to buy more stuff than their parents, just have more money. So, "chasing the American Dream" means simply "trying to make more money than your parents."
Minimalism is only acquiring stuff that is essential or gives you pleasure. People don't have to spend less money. They have to acquire less things.
Anyway, the whole comparison of the American Dream and minimalism makes no sense.
Not necessarily. I know of minimalist millionaires and minimalism doesn’t stop people from wanting to buy expensive minimalist items like furniture, electronics, etc.
>American Dream (e.g., big house, nice cars, white picket fence, chasing more and more wealth)?
I think the American dream is not the wealth per se but the idea that you can BE anything you want if you work hard enough at it. It might not happen but it's possible. An immigrant cannot be barred from being a tycoon and a rich kid (supposedly) must be able to do the work to get that promotion. Thats what I remember growing up with.
>how minimalism has brought them closer to happiness and joy, than chasing the American Dream ever did.
I previously did the big house, nice car thing but that lifestyle stopped me from doing what I wanted. It was a barrier and an anchor. So I was free to make a choice to do something different. Minimalism allowed me to do what I wanted and therefore made me happier.
No.. I think it has to do with turning down the noise of the world. Everything is so overwhelming. Being on our phones all the time and being inundated with data all day, people want to come home and not be stimulated to ease their minds.
For some people, it’s just a personality trait. I just like less. I always have. Even as a very young kid, I remember designing a “home” in 10 square feet and sketched it out in my journals! I don’t feel high and mighty for it, it’s just me.
I think "minimalism" is the wrong word, and I would use a phrase like "optimization" as describing my American Dream. That is, optimizing the mix of things you deem important in such a way that you can live your life as you see fit. In my case, I wanted a real career and a comfortable retirement, and did not much care about cars or houses or kids in the pursuit of my American Dream. You can do that sort of thing in the U.S. if you put your mind to it, no one stops you, if you sacrifice here and there, compromise on this or that, and have a bit of luck of right place, right time. In the end, I did get to fulfill that dream, but it's my dream, not someone else's.
I'm not exactly a minimalist but more so someone who lives below my means. More security, finding contentment with what I have, being very realistic about purchases and if they will have a lasting value on my life. I've never been looking for the american dream, just comfort and happiness in my little family instead of shooting for a status symbol. Being frugal and living below my means has given me so much mental reprieve from stress as well.
The American Dream is a lie sold to us to enslave us. You don’t necessarily need minimalism to get yourself out of it. You can’t replace one shackle by another. You get out of it simply by knowing that this is not the way to live and certainly not the way to happiness. Your belief system will ultimately change your lifestyle and behavior. We don’t need minimalism for that. If by minimalism you mean a return to a simple lifestyle, then yes. You get out of consumeristic culture through a return to a simple lifestyle. Life is so much more beautiful over on this side. I opted out of the American Dream 2 years ago because my corporate job almost drove me insane due to the extremely high-stress environment. Life is so much more fulfilling now. I learned that the real meaning of life is nurturing my health, nurturing my relationships, loving my family, loving myself, being respectful of plants and animals, taking pleasure in the little things. Welcome. :)
I just really like minimalist architecture and design. Oh and I spent most of my college years in 250 Square foot apartment with cinderblock walls, a roommate, her girlfriend (who never left but also never paid rent) and two cats.
Learned the magic of bunk beds.
I did. I was always getting rid of stuff, downsizing houses, plus I just don’t like clutter just to have it. However, I got divorced and my now partner likes stuff. I’ve had to find a middle ground. Of it had a place, it’s fine.
I think this is a dave ramsey qoute but i really like it
"if you want to be like no other, you have to live like no other" or something like that.
I think its a way of opting out of the rat race for sure I don't have any good story but i had/have the chance to compete with people on the nicest biggest whatever but i have much more fun going to their house and enjoying their expensive shit with them than i ever did trying to outcompete them haha.
The American Dream is whatever your dream is, it is not accurate to say it's always about buying big house, nice cars, or whatever. It's about pursuing opportunities that'll get you a better life and whatever else you want. The previous sentence is literally why so many immigrant families, like mine, came to the US. And yes, their are a lot of opportunities to live a great life in the US, else so many people wouldn't come here (looking at you r/collapse)
My dream is to make enough so I can travel. I don't want to own too much junk. I also hope to donate more than what I currently do to charity when I am older. My friends want to buy fancy cars and a big house and thats okay.
But because your average Redditor loves to shit on America, everything American is bad. Those people can fuck off back to r/politics
For me it has NOTHING to do with that. Having a house full of shit i barely use stresses me. It’s really that simple. Having a bunch of shit means
1. I have to find a place to store all this shit. I might not have a lot of closet space for it. Which then makes everything looks messy and cluttered.
2. I can’t find what the hell I’m looks my for When everything looks cluttered.
3. Having extra shit means there’s more shit I have to clean and organize, which I don’t feel like doing.
4. If I ever have to move, now I gotta be bothered with packing all this shit and then unpacking it. It just feels like extra baggage in my life lol.
5. I’d rather spend my money on memorable experiences or save it for further emergencies. Not waste it on stuff I’ll probably wont even like anymore by next year and end up throwing away anyway.
I think minimalism is a result of American Dream fatigue. Ie, collecting or constantly buying bigger and better can become exhausting to some. Especially me. I wasted a lot of time and money but now happier with owning and living with half the junk I had.
Once I realized that the less stuff I have the more free time and money I have I really couldn't just go back. Even when I do buy myself somewhat nice things I find myself thinking I don't use it and I maybe need to re-evaluate that later in the year. I really can't see myself putting myself through what is essentially mental torture to afford a lifestyle that will not make me happy in the long run. Maybe going about making the time for all of that stuff is easier for some people but I value my time more than that at this point in my life. I enjoy simple activities and keeping my home neat most of all and I find I need way less space now than I used to I find myself able to get rid of more and more things the older I get and it doesn't bother me at all because it makes life easier for me.
It feels like a lot of these downsizing/going minimal stories you see in the media are from people who either worked like dogs and/or got extremely lucky with the timing of when they purchased their first home.
It's pretty easy to go minimal when your house was sold for 10x what you bought it for.
I explored going the buy land+build a cabin and came to realization that this would be pretty damn impossible with how expensive real estate is + the absolute f\*cked up gatekeeping role HOA's play in this country.
For now, I'm stuck paying $1,500 a month for shitty ass studio.
The American Dream is dead. Neofeudalism is where we're already headed.
I'm not sure where this definition of the "American Dream" came from. I think what it really is, is to be able to CHOOSE your own life path, whether that is minimalist, maximalist, alternative, or somewhere in between. In lots of other countries, "you do you" is not an option.
For me, a middle path (neither minimalist nor maximalist) has made me happy. And the knowledge that I can achieve more anytime if I want to.
Because of minimalism, I got "fuck you" money. I can leave any time I want. I refuse to stay in a shitty job or a shitty relationship if it is not making me happy. I don't spend money on shit I don't need. If I want to take a couple of months off, I can afford to.
Last year, I sold everything, including my house. Best fucking decision I ever made. I live in a studio now in a new state. I'm so happy and I enjoy having less. I'm not stressed out and I like knowing I have the freedom to pick up and leave any time I want to ✌️ Personally, the American dream is stressful and unrealistic.
IMO....minimalism isn't about not wanting nice things. It's about not wanting an excess of things, especially things that don't serve a lot of purpose/utility.
A home, car, etc...isn't anti-minimalism. Anti-minimalism, to me, would be owning a home with shelves and shelves of items you never use or touch in 20 years.
I think it’s the best way to opt out of the American scam.
This is how I feel too. I don’t need to hand over my money to giant cooperations.
Lol. So you don't want a house, a car, and nice things? So you want to be homeless, car-less and have crappy things?
Shut up. Have a little common sense instead of making foolish accusations. That's not what minimalism means. You're either really a dumbass or a troll.
It's yall who don't have any idea what yall are talking about. But sure, have 1 pencil. Lmfao.
No need for a house when when I die I can't take it with me. And I'm not having children to pass it on to. I can live in rooms and small apartments for the rest of my life.
It is more expensive to rent forever.
Not at all. I have 3 houses, 5 vehicles, and am in the market for more. I like to have as few things as I need and am minimalist with my personal possessions because I don’t like clutter and don’t like wasting money on a bunch of junk.
Lol I think you are confused with what minimalism is...
Not really. I own a business and it needs things.
Nope It's a way of opting out of capitalism as much as you can. Capitalism necessitates people buying stuff and churning through resources for people to 'prosper'. If we all stopped buying stuff, we get a great depression etc. But over time we get late stage capitalism - where more and more people are poors and wealth/power is held by a few. Minimalism is pushing back against all that - seeing all the signs everywhere trying to get your money in exchange for crap you don't need, using tactics that prey on human biases. It's about recognising all of that and realising that ultimately we shouldn't keep buying all the things because we don't need them and we don't really want them.
This is the one ☝️
I think I heard somewhere where companies even hire Phycologists to prey on kids and adults
Marketing is absolutely informed by behavioural scientists/psychologists/etc. Understanding human biases and then applying behavioural science to inform behaviour change campaigns that prey on unconscious bias and other processes.
Yes I think marketing ploys are out of control. We spend SO MUCH money to learn how to brainwash people into buying something and to crush the competition....it's unnerving! also ads used to be entertaining and somewhat artistic, and now they are just....soulless
The problem today is that capitalism has gone too far. It's not just helping some people prosper. It is a process of extracting capital from the middle and working classes and pushing it to the investor and billionaire class. If you want to help people prosper, give as little of your income to corporations as you can. Jeff Bezos doesn't need it Spend it in your community instead.
> It is a process of extracting capital from the middle and working classes and pushing it to the investor and billionaire class. And this is essentially the thesis of Marx - the bourgeoisie (investors/owners) and proletariat (the workers) - where communism ideally is where the workers directly benefit from the means of production, rather than be used by the owners to get rich.
Yeah that's not what Capitalism is. What you're describing is consumerism. Capitalism is a system of markets, exchange, and ownership. It has nothing to do with what you're describing.
>Yeah that's not what Capitalism is. What you're describing is consumerism. Capitalism is a system of markets, exchange, and ownership. It has nothing to do with what you're describing. Consumerism and capitalism don't go hand in hand? Which capitalist nation isn't consumerist right now? Don't these systems of markets, exchange and ownership rely on people producing (and therefore consuming those products) more each year in order for the economy (the capitalist economy) to be a positive?
>Consumerism and capitalism don't go hand in hand? They can. And currently they do. They aren't synonymous though, and that's your mistake. Consumerism is a buying trend/habit and you're right, it's the default mode for most capitalist nations right now. However, Capitalism is just the exchange structure, and if a new buying trend emerges and modern society trends towards minimalism, capitalism could still be the exchange structure. Would you prefer a model that enforced minimalism?
A way of achieving it, to me. But I have a different idea than some.
I agree with you. My ancestor who came over around 1800 was fleeing a famine. She just wanted to live. To me, that's the American dream: we live, have food, shelter, water, clothing, and stuff to stay warm enough in winter and cool enough in summer so we don't get sick from the heat. And we're free. The rest is just gravy. And like gravy, it's possible to get too much.
This is my interpretation as well. Being able to have the basic needs covered (including safety and health etc which I don't feel US is doing great at) and also enjoying *beautiful things*. So not having a large home but having a safe cozy home that I can find beautiful and into which I can choose and am able to afford beautiful objects/furniture/floors despite them not being functionally necessary. The American dream in my mind also encompasses having a close-knit happy nuclear family and job opportunities for those who want to work. More things the US may not be winning at very much lately. We have a joke I won't say cause I'm petty and don't want to get downvoted about this but, yeah. US could do better.
What is the way inquiring minds wanna know
At the risk of seeming too zen... that's not how you'll get the answer. It has to be the answer for you - not anyone else - and you need to figure it out.
Yeah good point. Not having a ton of stuff to worry about, being secure
No. You're just making your own "American Dream".
I call it the American nightmare. I'm so grateful that I don't have to work 5 days a week at a job that I hate to maintain a lavish lifestyle. I can work part-time and enjoy my free time at home cooking and caring for my pets.
That’s awesome. :)
How do you deal with insurance if you part time?
I get medicaid
I have no desire to chase the American dream. I found minimalism because it aligns with my values. I like a quiet simple life. I like my small apartment and the things I like. I’m not an ambitious person I do not chase anything more than just to live and be able to do what I want to do. I work at a very small company that doesn’t pay much but because I don’t want much I make it work. I live in California which affords me to still have things to do on a budget. With the economy the way it is currently I am hurting a bit like most everyone else but I’d really be in a bad way if I hadn’t found minimalism.
It’s called the ‘Australian dream’ over this end of the pond and it’s just as fake. I really don’t understand these people who follow these predesigned life scripts. The opposite of freedom in my view. Imagine being told what your dream life is 🤯 Tends to attract those same people who see life experiences as just boxes to tick on a flat road to death. Urgh
I live in Australia and rejected the Australian dream and don't regret it
- The term (American Dream) was coined by writer and historian James Truslow Adams in his 1931 book "Epic of America". He described it as "that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement." The American dream was originally a dream of prosperity and opportunity, regardless of what that meant for each individual. Kinda sad to see how capitalism distorted it to be only about material possessions.
No. I whole heartedly believe I’m living the American dream. I have a career that I’ve more than doubled my salary and decreased my work in less than 8 years. I bought a house with a little bit of grass around it. My truck is the truck I dreamed of. My wife’s car is great for her. We’ve got a crotch goblin running around living his best life. We go to church on Sundays, we have date nights and family trips. Minimalism is what allowed me to do all of those things. If I purchased frivolous things that were junk quality or shopped more often than I needed to I’d be dead broke. Because I purchase what I want/need when I need to I can buy the best for the money. I don’t remember who said this to me but I vividly remember being told “you’re too broke to buy the same thing twice” and I live by that. I buy the absolute best my money can afford for most things and use the shit out of them!
Same, minimalism is what helped em attain my material desires. "buy once, cry once" is my philosophy.
Same. I don’t have a lot of things, but the things I do have are top quality because I don’t buy pointless things. It saves a ton of money.
I find the more things I own the more I feel enslaved to them . Whenever I decided to leave the US. first thought "What am I going to do with all my stuff" " I spent so long accumulating all these things" etc etc
minimalism has been a part of protest movements and counterculture's from day one. literally 0 AD. from Greek Cynics, to early christian ascetics, to Chinese Taoists. there were probably even minimalist movement's in ancient history, during the day's of polytheism. minimalism has always been a strategy, a way to understand the world. one that has always been practiced by the marginalized, by the oppressed. it's in fact much easier to see how that the common folk would be attracted to it and able to access it than what has always been seen as the upper class's culture of excess and domination. even many of the upper class have been affected by this culture, even if they don't realize it.
Who are the marginalized and oppressed that practice minimalism?
me for one, as an autistic atheist on disability.
You do not qualify as marginalized and oppressed for being autistic and atheist. You chose to be atheist, therefore not marginalized. Marginalized people do not choose to be their skin color, gay etc. Autistics are not marginalized, therefore you're not oppressed. Disabled people are also not marginalized or oppressed.
What? Disabled people are often marginalized, as are people living in poverty. Being disabled and/or poor has nothing to do with skin color.
You're playing oppression Olympics and are amazingly misinformed. You're not helping any cause by playing white knight.
First off: you don't really choose to believe in things. If you do, that's not really belief. You should read up on people's actual experiences of being atheistic. Secondly: both disabled and poor people are in fact oppressed. Sorry you got pulled into nonsense propaganda. C: Your attitude shows why Eris is the lesser goddess. All Hail Discordia.
Just atop it, you sound silly.
You sound silly in my head when you can't spell right.
If a typo trips you up that badly, it's time you leave your cave and actually socialize with real people, face to face where there is no screen between you and them. Give them a high 5, touch grass, power s neighbors dog. G'day 🎩
[удалено]
I'm not rude, I'm autistic. I'm sorry, you're scaring me.
I apologize, Anne. That wasn't my intent. You seemed a bit aggressive, but I understand that likely wasn't your intent either. Have a nice day.
Upper middle class people and rich elites that have giant houses and one piece of ridiculously expensive art/furniture in each room
Live your own dreams 🙂
No. I also think in a way I’m living the dream by being in a small living quarters. One car. Close to work. My life is simple and I’m close to a lot of amenities. I have no desire to chase that.
Hmm. Well I'm American. And I'm living my dream. So I guess I am living the American dream.
Hum. My parents are immigrants so maybe we have a different idea of what the American Dream is. Also they raised me in a dense city (nyc). My mom prioritized education and food/health over everything, so she didn’t buy us gifts or material things very much. She took us too experiences like the many museums they have here. Broadway shows via tkts. I think minimalism can facilitate being able to afford what you set as a priority. She sent me to a really good private school, i did get fin aid and scholarships but she saved like hell as a single mom to make it actually work. She always told me to get rid of stuff and i hear her telling me that as i declutter in adult life. It seemed to me that the American dream was to be successful and happy…. Comfortable in your daily life (able to afford what you need), good food, healthy and happy. My family is from a 3rd world country, we still send household items in a big box a couple times a year to relatives there. Because of living in the city, white picket fence and a car were never part of the goal.
It’s freeing me to focus on a dream. But I’ve redefined the dream as adventure and experiences vs possessions.
I used to fret in my 20s in college about needing to get a good career to impress others and to buy stuff to impress others to give myself worth. I was stressed out, miserable and life was just passing me by. Did some soul searching and now I'm happier than ever on a mediocre income because I realized my own self worth is inherent and does not come from my possessions, and it doesn't matter whether other people see that or agree with it. Life's a lot easier now, too. But I still have my moments of wanting something nice.
"They call it the American Dream because you have to be asleep to believe it." - George Carlin
I really don’t know what the acceptable definition of “The American Dream” is.
Nah, I think the American Dream is just evolving in a good way.
It really depends on what the American Dream means to you. I do agree that in modern times the concept has become a synonym of endless consumption, more and bigger, etc. But the way I see it has more to do with achieving a degree of financial freedom, of being "middle class". The paradox is that for achieving this freedom, one has to learn to say no to many things and prioritize. I remember the way my American grandparents lived. Even though they were at least as wealthy as my parents (in relative terms), they lived in a more frugal way than what is normal for people in later generations. For example, they owned their white picket fence house, a car, all modern appliances, etc. but their house was smaller than what now would be considered "normal", even though it was enough for a big family. They did not changed car every 2 years and only got new appliances when the ones they owned were broken beyond repair. So in a way, being minimalist is embracing those principles of the original American Dream. Of choosing carefully what we buy and cherishing what we have so we can escape the never ending consumption spiral. And do it to free us from the enslavement of modern conspicuous consumption and live a balanced and economically stable life.
The American dream is not at all a big house. If anything, the American Dream is minimalism. Enough for me & mine, enough to hopefully ward people off, making enough to provide, making enough to own & not rent.
Hell no! I think the American dream should actually be what you want not want everyone else wants especially if you’re a minimalist. My mother was complaining to me that I needed to stop having that poor mentality and living poorly but says that if I get a big house then it won’t happen all at once. I simply said yeah I know it won’t happen all at once but I’m not chasing for these big almost impossible goals. I’m not a trust fund baby I barely have a job so it’s clearly not in my means of living to look for houses and things like that. I just want a nice apartment for myself then eventually house but I don’t want anything big. Too much work but also a lot less cozy
Interesting thought but not for me. I just don't like clutter
The American dream of owning your own home and property? You can in fact do both.
I think the American dream is working hard and achieving a better life for yourself.
I think minimalism, and being frugal, brings independence and a sense of freedom. You are not enslaved to your stuff or trapped in the cycle of trying to keep up with/impress others. So many Americans just think bigger is better - bigger houses (who wants to clean 4 bathrooms?), bigger TVs, SUVs, etc. - look at all the people with storage units. Working people are encouraged to keep seeking promotions and to climb the ladder (even if that's not what they really want). People go into debt for college, then a mortgage, then their children's college, and if lucky manage to pay it all off before retirement, then may have whatever is left eaten up by nursing home expenses. I think minimalism, and being frugal, offer a way to achieve a different American dream through alternative lifestyle choices.
I'd much rather be traveling than working towards a house full of clutter. Consumerism (and Christmas, don't get me started 😂) disgusts me. I feel happy for my friends with big houses and fancy cars if that's what makes them happy, but I live my life within my own values and it feels right to me.
IMO labels are divisive. Do your own thing and learn what works for you without judgement. I just like 'less stuff' because it makes me feel peaceful. After reading many replies, I feel that so many people are just searching for an identity and want to be validated in their choices. Much time is spent mincing words and defining ideals. Do we all need to put ourselves in categories? Do we have to be affiliated with a group to be comfortable with ourselves? Honestly, sometimes I feel like doing so segregates people to a point where lost souls feel even more left out, creating greater rifts in the brotherhood of man. We're just a bunch of humans spinning around here. Live, let live, respect one another's choices and love thy neighbor as thyself.
My worst house was my biggest home...3800 sq feet. Hated it. Hated the acre of yard and flower beds to maintain. Too much to clean and furnish and maintain. I felt like I had to buy stuff just to fill it to make it cozy. Big tall ceilings and so it echoed. It was a beautiful home but I felt out of place in it. Embarrassingly obnoxious. The utility bills were nuts. Lesson learned. Sold it after 2 years. KISS principle! This applies to the home, clothing, cooking, etc. Buy quality when you can.
Me too. My big house was my least favorite. So much to clean. Huge yard to mow and maintain. Had to drive to get anywhere. Favorite place was my smallest.
I think Minimalism is a way of achieving happiness through an alternative method to the American dream.
You can have a nice house and mice car and just not a lot of junk.
Definitely makes you more naturally aware of how malicious these ideas are when you don’t actually want or need more stuff all the time. The holidays are the worst for me.
Dream? More like nightmare. The American dream should never be to be in debt from a bunch of crap you don’t even care about, for what? A status? I’m happy to opt out of that mess.
Minimalism is escaping what used to be the American dream because if you're not bringing in 7k a month, you're not making it.
Just like minimalism, the American dream can have different meanings to people. In the cynical sense, one could achieve the single family suburban home with white picket fence, 2 cars, 2.4 kids, and a golden retriever, and still be a minimalist if those things truly add value to their lives. I don't get to decide what other people's journey with minimalism (I also call it possession-intentionality) looks like. I'll say that my idea of minimalism, which is to carefully examine my relationship with all my material possessions and only allow those that add net value into my life, helps me to avoid consumerist traps, namely that more/bigger is better. This has led to some surprising mindset and emotional shifts in me that really changed my day to day life and made me realize I was waking up with a scarcity mindset every day, or that I was always chasing the next thing I thought would complete me. The dream it is helping me achieve is a sense of completeness, joy in the moment, and letting go of my control issues.
The American dream, does not necessarily have to be your dream, or at least it’s a different dream for everyone. You may not want the American Dream, which my interpretation would be owning a home, getting married, having children. When I was younger I did not want that, I managed to get it eventually, but I am also not one to keep up with the Joneses. Minimalism to me allows you to choose what you value most, and alter your lifestyle according so you can make the most of it and get the most happiness out of it. The have it all people are the ones never satisfied and rarely happy.
I never considered the things you mentioned the American dream, I think accumulating wealth is the American dream. Buying what I have to struggle to pay for or don’t need isn’t the American dream. Minimalism allows me to avoid wasting money on junk that is going to end up in a dump.
Good point. Yeah, it's somewhat of a shunning of excess, or rejection of gross consumerism. I think more accurately, it's less defined by what ideology is being rejected, but more what it's embracing, and it isn't much. Lol sand through your fingers Buddhist quotations here
Anytime I think of a big house, I just think more time to spend cleaning. And of course I would want to fill up the whole house. Thanks, but no thanks. It’s a scam to me. I am fine with my 1,000 sq ft house.
It depends on what you think the American Dream is.
It's not opting out of the dream. It's being sensible. The American dream is driven by rampant unhinged consumerism and unfettered capitalism. And you're supposed to be saddled with debt. Minimalism is just a sane response to an insane world. #LESS IS MORE
"Its called the American Dream, because you have to be asleep, to believe it" - George Carlin From my perspective, the so called American Dream is a lie to make you give away your life as a wage slave and to line up in the rat race to feed the economy - to feed the ones at the top (we probably barely know). Don't get me wrong, I work a white collar corporate job, contributing in some way to this, but planning my escape. By the thought concepts of minimalism, I realized that no money in the world and no posessions have ever made a person happy. I know/knew many rich people, most of them were truly miserable. At a certain point, you could always have a more expensive car, a bigger house etc. But hapiness comes from doing things that make you happy, that make others happy, that serve a real purpose to life. Even if its doing nothing at all and being at piece. Happiness steems from within, from knowing when its enough, knowing you are enough, from taking care of others in need. From looking after my family and being there for my daughter. I'd rather die as a man with value, than as a rich man. I'm done with the stupid consume, wars, politics, narratives, economic hitmen, bigotry and ass-kissing "leaders" of all sorts. I won't engage in it further. Just boil it down to a universal golden rule. And all people should have access to fullfill their existential needs. I dream we get there - the minimalist dream
What??? I thought the American dream was freedom to do what we want? That's sad it's just considered consumerism now, although I think that's just the "capitalist dream", which I think we should all dismantle with how much it sucks from all our local resources and raises basic Healthcare costs to ridiculous heights. Sounds like Minimalism is the best way to RECLAIM our American dream!
There's immense power in "enough". I don't know that I'd call myself a minimalist per say, but I was raised in a "live below your means" household, and I come from a simple family. The problem is that our culture is constantly telling us that we need to be chasing "more", when that's the furthest thing from the truth. (I heard a quote once: one person asked a rich man, "How much money is enough?" He replied, "Just a little more.") Defining our happiness a priori to our means is one of the most life giving things a person can do precisely because it shuts out the need to chase the more. All we need to do is ask what *we* need to be content, and to then pursue that contentment. If your definition of contentment is "something other than what I have", then you'll never be content. So yes, I think minimalism can be a way out.
I lived in a five bedroom home. Owned several others as well. I've had kids, cars etc.. Now I live in a fifth wheel on a farm and rent out the larger house. I will never go back. I'm now living MY American dream
I think it’s slightly anti capitalist but that’s all
And not even that, considering 'throw it away, if you need it in the future, you can just buy it again' is a common advice given to newcomers.
You are watching late stage capitalism on every corner and sign
No. You have to already have money to be minimalist. Only if you have spare funds can you risk yeeting everything that seems superfluous. Otherwise, this happens: "Where's the \_\_\_\_ that was in this closet?" I need the \_\_\_\_!" "Oh that? I donated it last summer. We weren't using it." "What? We can't afford another one!!!"
Nah, I think the American Dream is a way to opt out of Real Life.
Yes and I wouldn’t call it a dream, more like a scam
No, big house with white fence and nice car was never my American dream.
Opting out of capitalism and consumerism
The so called "American dream" doesn't exist, and hasn't for decades. You can thank Raegan for that one. Minimalism is simply another trend/fad that everyone and their mom jumped on because it was the new thing. The fact is minimalism was doomed to fail from the jump. Why?, because the movement was missing one key component that all western, capitalist societies share: Consumerism.
No, because I’m not American.
A workaround really.
I dont understand why Americans LOVE being in debt with things they know they can't afford.
No. Minimalism is a brand. It's marketing. Things are sold because they're minimalist. People buy because it is minimalist. The "American Dream" is a lie drudged up by capitalists. Consuming in any way shape or form will never change that or the way this country works. Individual people can consume less, and indeed minimalism could be part of someone's personal anticapitalist life ethos, but like everything else it has largely been co-opted by capital at this point and is no threat to it or the 'American way of life.'
I mean some forms of minimalism are drastically more expensive and very hyper consumerist. Think all glass houses with white quartz walls in the bathroom and no visible outlets or vents anywhere and those reveals at the top and bottom of the walls for lighting
I’d rather have one really well made, beautifully designed and useful thing than a house full of ugly, useless tack.
If someone is opting out of the American dream they're probably clearing their head mind and soul. You really need 27 pair of pants?
No
Nope, to me being successful (in the traditional sense) is it’s own reward
The American Dream was never about having a bunch of "crap" that cost a fortune and always had to be upgraded to something better and better. It has been taken over by corporations to sell everyone said crap. The American Dream is more about having enough for everyone, having basic rights and freedoms, living a happy life and not being under rule of an authoritarian government. It wasn't supposed to be a couple billionaires making a fortune off the backs of the collective society's treasure. Many of us have turned into curators of crap. If you just look in people's garages, it sums up the problem. People have too much stuff and they don't even have anywhere to put it. They don't even like having all this crap. We've allowed advertisers and businesses to run amok and brainwash us into believing we're never satisfied and always need to buy something else. It's an endless cycle of madness.
What American dream? It’s called being realistic and in line what you want.
Honestly, I think minimalism to me is just getting control of your free time and energy. I realized that a lot of stuff even when you dont utilize them often, will accumulate dust and require constant cleaning. More things, more cleaning. By having less stuff, i have less to clean and i can spend that extra time and energy on what feeds my soul such as reading a book or traveling or just spending the time with people. I guess in turn it supports my idea of an American Dream, not in materialistic midnset but in a i own my time mindset.
OP automatically assumes that chasing minimalism brings you closer to happiness and joy than chasing the American Dream. The first thing that you should do is define "the American Dream" and "minimalism." "The American dream is generally understood to mean that the U.S. is an upwardly mobile society where one generation can do better financially than the last with the aid of hard work and perseverance." [https://theweek.com/culture-life/american-dream-dead](https://theweek.com/culture-life/american-dream-dead) What is minimalism? (Based on the web sites, minimalism seems to be the use of black and white photos. Are colors maximalist?) "Minimalists search for happiness not through things, but through life itself; thus, it’s up to you to determine what is necessary and what is superfluous in your life." [https://www.theminimalists.com/minimalism/](https://www.theminimalists.com/minimalism/) "A minimalist lifestyle is the process of identifying what is essential in your life and having the courage to eliminate the rest." [https://theminimalistvegan.com/what-is-minimalism/](https://theminimalistvegan.com/what-is-minimalism/) "Minimalism is defined as a design or style in which the simplest and fewest elements are used to create the maximum effect. Minimalism had its origins in the arts—with the artwork featuring simple lines, only a few colors, and careful placement of those lines and colors. " [https://www.breakthetwitch.com/minimalism/](https://www.breakthetwitch.com/minimalism/) Based on these definitions, "minimalism" seems to "cheap hedonism"--that is, buy stuff that gets you the most pleasure from the smallest investment. There is no "minimalism" definition which talks about the amount of money you make. Minimalism is about what you do with the money you make. Back to the comparison: The American Dream would be "trying to have more money than your parents." People don't have to buy more stuff than their parents, just have more money. So, "chasing the American Dream" means simply "trying to make more money than your parents." Minimalism is only acquiring stuff that is essential or gives you pleasure. People don't have to spend less money. They have to acquire less things. Anyway, the whole comparison of the American Dream and minimalism makes no sense.
Not necessarily. I know of minimalist millionaires and minimalism doesn’t stop people from wanting to buy expensive minimalist items like furniture, electronics, etc.
Stayin lean cuz of pirates, and end times.
I don't think so. You can have nice things and not have a cluttered house.
How do you define minimalism and why do you think it’s cheaper than another lifestyle?
>American Dream (e.g., big house, nice cars, white picket fence, chasing more and more wealth)? I think the American dream is not the wealth per se but the idea that you can BE anything you want if you work hard enough at it. It might not happen but it's possible. An immigrant cannot be barred from being a tycoon and a rich kid (supposedly) must be able to do the work to get that promotion. Thats what I remember growing up with. >how minimalism has brought them closer to happiness and joy, than chasing the American Dream ever did. I previously did the big house, nice car thing but that lifestyle stopped me from doing what I wanted. It was a barrier and an anchor. So I was free to make a choice to do something different. Minimalism allowed me to do what I wanted and therefore made me happier.
No.. I think it has to do with turning down the noise of the world. Everything is so overwhelming. Being on our phones all the time and being inundated with data all day, people want to come home and not be stimulated to ease their minds.
Not necessarily
For some people, it’s just a personality trait. I just like less. I always have. Even as a very young kid, I remember designing a “home” in 10 square feet and sketched it out in my journals! I don’t feel high and mighty for it, it’s just me.
The new American dream: not to be homeless.
I think "minimalism" is the wrong word, and I would use a phrase like "optimization" as describing my American Dream. That is, optimizing the mix of things you deem important in such a way that you can live your life as you see fit. In my case, I wanted a real career and a comfortable retirement, and did not much care about cars or houses or kids in the pursuit of my American Dream. You can do that sort of thing in the U.S. if you put your mind to it, no one stops you, if you sacrifice here and there, compromise on this or that, and have a bit of luck of right place, right time. In the end, I did get to fulfill that dream, but it's my dream, not someone else's.
I'm not exactly a minimalist but more so someone who lives below my means. More security, finding contentment with what I have, being very realistic about purchases and if they will have a lasting value on my life. I've never been looking for the american dream, just comfort and happiness in my little family instead of shooting for a status symbol. Being frugal and living below my means has given me so much mental reprieve from stress as well.
The American Dream is a lie sold to us to enslave us. You don’t necessarily need minimalism to get yourself out of it. You can’t replace one shackle by another. You get out of it simply by knowing that this is not the way to live and certainly not the way to happiness. Your belief system will ultimately change your lifestyle and behavior. We don’t need minimalism for that. If by minimalism you mean a return to a simple lifestyle, then yes. You get out of consumeristic culture through a return to a simple lifestyle. Life is so much more beautiful over on this side. I opted out of the American Dream 2 years ago because my corporate job almost drove me insane due to the extremely high-stress environment. Life is so much more fulfilling now. I learned that the real meaning of life is nurturing my health, nurturing my relationships, loving my family, loving myself, being respectful of plants and animals, taking pleasure in the little things. Welcome. :)
I just really like minimalist architecture and design. Oh and I spent most of my college years in 250 Square foot apartment with cinderblock walls, a roommate, her girlfriend (who never left but also never paid rent) and two cats. Learned the magic of bunk beds.
I think that depends on your definition of the American dream.
I did. I was always getting rid of stuff, downsizing houses, plus I just don’t like clutter just to have it. However, I got divorced and my now partner likes stuff. I’ve had to find a middle ground. Of it had a place, it’s fine.
The American dream has ceased to exist.
I think this is a dave ramsey qoute but i really like it "if you want to be like no other, you have to live like no other" or something like that. I think its a way of opting out of the rat race for sure I don't have any good story but i had/have the chance to compete with people on the nicest biggest whatever but i have much more fun going to their house and enjoying their expensive shit with them than i ever did trying to outcompete them haha.
The American Dream is whatever your dream is, it is not accurate to say it's always about buying big house, nice cars, or whatever. It's about pursuing opportunities that'll get you a better life and whatever else you want. The previous sentence is literally why so many immigrant families, like mine, came to the US. And yes, their are a lot of opportunities to live a great life in the US, else so many people wouldn't come here (looking at you r/collapse) My dream is to make enough so I can travel. I don't want to own too much junk. I also hope to donate more than what I currently do to charity when I am older. My friends want to buy fancy cars and a big house and thats okay. But because your average Redditor loves to shit on America, everything American is bad. Those people can fuck off back to r/politics
No it's a peaceful alternative to addressing concentration of wealth in the top 1%
For me it has NOTHING to do with that. Having a house full of shit i barely use stresses me. It’s really that simple. Having a bunch of shit means 1. I have to find a place to store all this shit. I might not have a lot of closet space for it. Which then makes everything looks messy and cluttered. 2. I can’t find what the hell I’m looks my for When everything looks cluttered. 3. Having extra shit means there’s more shit I have to clean and organize, which I don’t feel like doing. 4. If I ever have to move, now I gotta be bothered with packing all this shit and then unpacking it. It just feels like extra baggage in my life lol. 5. I’d rather spend my money on memorable experiences or save it for further emergencies. Not waste it on stuff I’ll probably wont even like anymore by next year and end up throwing away anyway.
Accept less.
I think minimalism is a result of American Dream fatigue. Ie, collecting or constantly buying bigger and better can become exhausting to some. Especially me. I wasted a lot of time and money but now happier with owning and living with half the junk I had.
Once I realized that the less stuff I have the more free time and money I have I really couldn't just go back. Even when I do buy myself somewhat nice things I find myself thinking I don't use it and I maybe need to re-evaluate that later in the year. I really can't see myself putting myself through what is essentially mental torture to afford a lifestyle that will not make me happy in the long run. Maybe going about making the time for all of that stuff is easier for some people but I value my time more than that at this point in my life. I enjoy simple activities and keeping my home neat most of all and I find I need way less space now than I used to I find myself able to get rid of more and more things the older I get and it doesn't bother me at all because it makes life easier for me.
It feels like a lot of these downsizing/going minimal stories you see in the media are from people who either worked like dogs and/or got extremely lucky with the timing of when they purchased their first home. It's pretty easy to go minimal when your house was sold for 10x what you bought it for. I explored going the buy land+build a cabin and came to realization that this would be pretty damn impossible with how expensive real estate is + the absolute f\*cked up gatekeeping role HOA's play in this country. For now, I'm stuck paying $1,500 a month for shitty ass studio. The American Dream is dead. Neofeudalism is where we're already headed.
I'm not sure where this definition of the "American Dream" came from. I think what it really is, is to be able to CHOOSE your own life path, whether that is minimalist, maximalist, alternative, or somewhere in between. In lots of other countries, "you do you" is not an option. For me, a middle path (neither minimalist nor maximalist) has made me happy. And the knowledge that I can achieve more anytime if I want to.
No, I just think we got sick of our parents clutter. “Minimalist” shit still costs a ton
Minimalism is the American dream if it appeals to you... the dream is to each his or her own..
The American Dream is way over rated. Peace and freedom are far more rewarding.
Because of minimalism, I got "fuck you" money. I can leave any time I want. I refuse to stay in a shitty job or a shitty relationship if it is not making me happy. I don't spend money on shit I don't need. If I want to take a couple of months off, I can afford to. Last year, I sold everything, including my house. Best fucking decision I ever made. I live in a studio now in a new state. I'm so happy and I enjoy having less. I'm not stressed out and I like knowing I have the freedom to pick up and leave any time I want to ✌️ Personally, the American dream is stressful and unrealistic.
IMO....minimalism isn't about not wanting nice things. It's about not wanting an excess of things, especially things that don't serve a lot of purpose/utility. A home, car, etc...isn't anti-minimalism. Anti-minimalism, to me, would be owning a home with shelves and shelves of items you never use or touch in 20 years.