What is Minimalism?
Minimalism is a lifestyle that focuses on living with less, prioritizing quality over quantity, and being intentional about what we own and consume. It helps reduce stress, improve financial stability, and bring contentment by focusing on what truly matters.
In India, where consumerism is on the rise, adopting a minimalist mindset can help one save money while embracing a more fulfilling and sustainable way of life.
20 Ways to Save Money & Live a Happy Minimalist Life
1. Follow the 30-Day Rule for Purchases
Before buying anything non-essential, wait 30 days. This prevents impulse purchases and ensures you truly need the item.
2. Cook Simple, Home-Cooked Meals
Eating out frequently is expensive. Stick to wholesome, home-cooked meals that are nutritious and cost-effective. South Indian meals like sambar-rice or khichdi are simple yet fulfilling.
3. Declutter & Sell Unused Items
Sell unused clothes, furniture, books, and gadgets on platforms like Swap groups, Facebook Marketplace, or at local second-hand stores.
4. Adopt a Capsule Wardrobe
Own fewer but versatile, high-quality clothing pieces instead of following fast fashion trends. Stick to timeless Indian wear like cotton kurtas, handloom sarees, or comfortable linen outfits.
5. Use Public Transport or Carpool
Save on fuel and maintenance costs by using metros, buses, shared autos, or carpooling. Walking or cycling for short distances also promotes health and sustainability. Ofcourse use your own vehicle when you have to and dont think twice about it.
6. Cut Down on Digital Subscriptions
Unsubscribe from unused OTT platforms, apps, and memberships. Stick to essentials like one or two OTT platforms instead of subscribing to everything.
7. Buy Second-Hand or Swap Items
For books, furniture, or electronics, explore second-hand options through local markets, Bookchor, Amazon Used, or community groups. Swap clothes or gadgets with friends or family.
8. DIY Household Products
Make your own cleaning solutions using natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon instead of expensive branded cleaners.
9. Focus on Experiences Over Possessions
Instead of spending on material things, invest in experiences like travel, hiking, or learning a new skill that enriches your life.
10. Choose Quality Over Quantity
Whether it’s home decor, clothes, or utensils, invest in durable, multi-purpose items that last longer instead of hoarding unnecessary things. Whenever you find you have a lot more of one item, even if just food in the fridge, make sure to use that up before ordering in and cooking a fresh batch.
11. Embrace Local & Sustainable Shopping
Support local artisans, khadi stores, or street vendors instead of buying overpriced branded goods. This also helps the economy. Also, try not to do any online shopping and mainly impulse shopping.
12. Follow a No-Spend Challenge
Pick a month and commit to spending only on essentials like groceries, rent, and utilities while avoiding unnecessary purchases. Also when it comes to money, priority order needs to be
1. Pay off bills
2. Repay any debts or outstandings
3. Spend on self/partner
4. Savings
13. Reduce Electricity & Water Wastage
Simple habits like switching off lights, using energy-efficient bulbs, and reusing water (e.g., using AC water for mopping) save money and the environment.
14. Cook in Batches & Reduce Food Waste
Prepare meals in bulk, store leftovers properly, and repurpose food creatively (e.g., making cutlets from leftover dal).
15. Practice Gifting Thoughtfully
Instead of expensive gifts, give handmade items, baked goods, plants, or heartfelt handwritten notes. These are meaningful and budget friendly.
16. Find Joy in Simple Pleasures
Happiness comes from small things—spending time with family, enjoying home-cooked food, reading, or meditating. Minimalism is about appreciating what you already have.
