Transform Your Life with 8 Minimalist Concepts by Ben Meer
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Minimalism
This morning, I found myself exclaiming, "I truly appreciate the internet!" after coming across a post on LinkedIn by Ben Meer. His insights are straightforward and practical, devoid of unnecessary fluff, yet they offer real value!
Among his tips, the idea of maintaining an "inbox zero" stood out to me. Although it may seem simple, my email inbox can often resemble a chaotic mess. I am easily distracted by notifications, rushing to check each new email. I admire those, like my husband, who manage to achieve a zero inbox by the end of their workday. clap, clap
Let’s explore eight minimalist principles that have the potential to reshape your life, whether you're an entrepreneur aiming for streamlined success or someone wanting to declutter your daily routine.
Section 1.1: Simplifying Finances
- Streamline Your Financial Commitments
- Cancel subscriptions you no longer use.
- Automate payments for bills, savings, and investments.
- Use the Avalanche Method for debt repayment (look it up).
- Follow the 50/30/20 budgeting rule (50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings).
Section 1.2: Embrace Practical Materialism
Invest in Meaningful Purchases
- Opt for items that enhance your health, wealth, or free time.
This is known as practical materialism: acquiring products that materially improve your life.
Subsection 1.2.1: Organizing Your Space
Designate a Place for Everything
"The only way to keep a neat and orderly home is to ensure that each of your possessions has a designated spot." — Marie Kondo
Ben suggests:
- Identify your most commonly misplaced items (like keys and wallets).
- Create a consistent location for these items today.
Section 1.3: Creating a Capsule Wardrobe
Develop a Capsule Wardrobe
A capsule wardrobe consists of a select few clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched.
The advantage?
You’ll minimize physical and mental clutter, especially the decision-making process when choosing outfits.
Section 1.4: Following the One In, One Out Rule
Implement the 1 In, 1 Out Principle
For every new item you acquire, consider donating, selling, or discarding another.
Minimalism requires balancing both incoming and outgoing possessions for true harmony.
Section 1.5: Controlling Impulse Purchases
Apply the 1% Rule to Manage Impulse Spending
If a purchase exceeds 1% of your annual income, wait three days.
If you still desire it afterward, go ahead and buy it.
This often reveals that you may not truly need or want that item.
Section 1.6: Eliminating Triggers for Bad Habits
Remove Items That Encourage Negative Behaviors
Examine each item in your environment and ask:
"Does this encourage a good or bad habit?"
It’s time to hide, donate, or sell anything that fosters negative behavior.
Be decisive.
Section 1.7: Achieving Inbox Zero
Maintain an Inbox Zero Using the 3–21–0 Method
Your digital space can either clarify or complicate your life.
Opt for clarity by adhering to the 3–21–0 approach:
- Three email processing sessions daily
- Each session lasting 21 minutes
- Aim to have zero emails remaining in your inbox.
Why adopt the 3–21–0 method?
Batching your tasks allows for greater focus, minimizing distractions, and reserving time for essential "deep work" activities.
To implement this, schedule three 21-minute blocks in your calendar:
- 9:30 AM to 9:51 AM
- 1:00 PM to 1:21 PM
- 4:30 PM to 4:51 PM
Try to avoid checking emails outside these designated times, if possible. Disable notifications to maintain focus.
Ben Meer's clear and uncomplicated advice serves as a powerful reminder that enhancing our daily lives doesn't have to involve complex solutions. The simple act of striving for an empty inbox can be transformative! This aligns with the philosophy of concentrating on what truly matters, as highlighted in "Deep Work" by Cal Newport.
Let me know your thoughts!
If you appreciate this content, feel free to buy me a coffee — I enjoy an oat latte! For glimpses of my life beyond work, connect with me on Instagram.
Michelle