As humans, we have an innate tendency to add things to our lives. Whether it’s acquiring material possessions or taking on more responsibilities at work or in our personal lives, we often equate more with better. However, this mentality can often lead to unnecessary complexity and stress in our lives. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of thinking in terms of subtraction, and how it can help us simplify and improve our lives.
The problem with adding more
We often equate more with better, and this mentality is reinforced by our culture of consumerism. We’re bombarded with messages that tell us we need to have the latest and greatest gadgets, the newest fashion trends, and the most impressive job titles. We’re told that having more will make us happier and more successful.
The problem with this mentality is that it often leads to unnecessary complexity and stress in our lives. When we constantly add more, we have to spend more time and energy managing and maintaining those things. We may find ourselves working longer hours to pay for our material possessions or struggling to keep up with our ever-expanding to-do lists. And, in the end, we may find that we’re no happier or more fulfilled than we were before.
Why subtraction is important
Subtraction, on the other hand, involves taking away things that are not essential or important to our lives. It involves simplifying our lives and focusing on what truly matters. By removing the non-essential, we create more space and time for the things that are most important to us.
Subtraction can be applied in many areas of our lives. For example, we can simplify our wardrobes by getting rid of clothes we no longer wear or don’t fit properly. We can simplify our diets by cutting out processed foods or eliminating foods that make us feel sluggish or unwell. We can simplify our work lives by delegating tasks or saying no to projects that don’t align with our goals or values.
Subtraction can also help us improve our mental and emotional well-being. By removing negative influences or relationships from our lives, we can create more space for positivity and joy. We can also simplify our thought patterns by letting go of negative self-talk or limiting beliefs.
How to apply subtraction in your life
If you’re ready to simplify your life and experience the benefits of subtraction, there are a few things you can do. Start by taking an inventory of your life and identifying areas where you can remove the non-essential. Consider what’s most important to you and focus your time and energy on those things. Learn to say no to things that don’t align with your goals or values, and delegate tasks when possible.
Remember that subtraction doesn’t always mean taking away something physical. It can also involve simplifying your thought patterns or letting go of negative emotions. Learn to identify thoughts or beliefs that don’t serve you and replace them with more positive ones.
Finally, be patient with yourself. It can be difficult to let go of things that we’ve become attached to or that we believe are important. But, by learning to think in terms of subtraction, we can simplify our lives and create more space for the things that truly matter.
In conclusion, while our innate nature may be to add more to our lives, it’s important to remember that subtraction can be just as powerful. By simplifying our lives and focusing on what’s most important, we can experience greater happiness, fulfillment, and peace of mind. So, the next time you’re tempted to add something to your life, take a moment to consider whether subtraction might be a better solution.
Dive Deeper
Book Recommendation
“Goodbye, Things: The New Japanese Minimalism” by Fumio Sasaki is a great book to read on minimalism. This book provides a compelling perspective on the benefits of simplifying one’s life and living with less.
The author, Fumio Sasaki, shares his own personal journey toward minimalism and describes how it has helped him to live a more fulfilling and peaceful life. He provides practical tips and advice for decluttering your home and your mind and also explores the philosophical and cultural roots of minimalism in Japan.
“Goodbye, Things” is a well-written and inspiring book that offers a refreshing perspective on the value of living with less. Whether you’re already a minimalist or just starting to explore the idea, this book is definitely worth a read.
I hope you find this recommendation helpful!
Documentary/ video
“Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things” is a highly recommended documentary on minimalism. The film, directed by Matt D’Avella, explores the lives of people who have chosen to live with less and the benefits they have found in doing so.
The documentary features interviews with prominent minimalists like Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, as well as experts in the fields of psychology and sociology. It also includes real-life examples of people who have embraced minimalism and how it has improved their lives.
Here’s a link to the documentary trailer on Youtube: https://youtu.be/0Co1Iptd4p4
“Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things” is an insightful and thought-provoking film that challenges viewers to reevaluate their relationship with material possessions and consumer culture. Whether you’re already a minimalist or just curious about the lifestyle, this documentary is definitely worth a watch.