Try This 30-Day Rule to Start Living a More Minimalist Life

Simplifying life doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. It’s about clearing the clutter—physical and mental—to create room for what truly matters. The 30-day rule offers a realistic starting point for anyone curious about a minimalist lifestyle.

This approach focuses on reducing distractions and unnecessary possessions while highlighting purpose and intentional living. It’s not about getting rid of everything, but rather, keeping only what adds value.

What Is the 30-Day Rule and How Does It Work?

The concept is simple but effective. Start with one item on day one. On day two, remove two items. Continue the pattern for 30 days. By the end, over 400 items are gone. The idea challenges not just the amount of stuff owned, but the mindset behind keeping it.

This method was brought into the spotlight by two individuals known for their minimalist efforts—Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus. While the method began as a personal challenge, its simplicity and structure have helped thousands rethink their relationship with material things.

Why the Minimalist Lifestyle Appeals to So Many

Freepik | teksomolika | Too much stuff at home breeds stress; decluttering brings peace and focus.

Living with less doesn’t only mean fewer items on a shelf. The core of minimalism is choosing quality, purpose, and peace of mind over quantity and chaos. According to psychologist Laura Palomares, the benefits go deeper than just having a tidy space. “Reducing visual and mental noise allows our minds to focus on the present and feel more at ease,” she explains.

A home packed with unused belongings can increase stress. Research shows that the average American home holds around 300,000 items. That number isn’t just high—it’s overwhelming. Reducing that load can improve mental clarity, save time, and help prioritize personal values.

What Happens When You Start Letting Go

The process can be eye-opening. One method involved boxing up every item in a home as if preparing for a move, and then only unpacking what was actually needed. Over time, it became clear that around 80% of those items weren’t essential.

Even digital clutter counts. Many people find that clearing out old photos, documents, and apps on their phones or computers is just as freeing as cleaning out a closet. The goal isn’t to strip everything away but to keep what genuinely supports your lifestyle.

Tips for Starting the Minimalist Approach

Getting started can feel overwhelming, especially if surrounded by a lot of stuff. These practical questions help in decision-making:

– Is this item truly useful or meaningful?
– Does it serve more than one purpose?
– Would I buy it again today?

Keeping these questions in mind makes it easier to filter what stays and what goes. Whether decluttering a kitchen drawer or organizing digital files, the approach stays the same—be intentional.

How Minimalism Can Improve Daily Life

Living with less can lead to noticeable benefits:

1. Reduced stress and anxiety

A clean, clutter-free space helps the mind feel more at ease and focused. When there’s less visual noise, it’s easier to relax, think clearly, and feel in control of your surroundings.

2. Improved productivity

Freepik | Reduced distractions in a minimalist setup lead to improved focus and efficiency.

With fewer distractions around, it becomes easier to concentrate on tasks and make better use of time. A minimalist setup can boost your ability to prioritize and get things done efficiently.

3. Better financial habits

Minimalists often focus on buying only what they truly need or love, which naturally reduces unnecessary spending. Over time, this approach builds smarter money habits and leads to long-term savings.

4. More meaningful connections

When you’re not preoccupied with stuff, your energy shifts to the people and moments that matter. This often results in deeper relationships and more intentional time spent with loved ones.

Monica Leed, a professional organizer, says, “Minimalism isn’t just about having fewer things—it’s about choosing the best version of what supports your life.” Whether it’s furniture, clothing, or tools, she suggests prioritizing items that serve a real purpose and are well made.

The Domino Effect of Decluttering

Minimalism can influence every part of life, from the wardrobe to the calendar. The ultimate goal is to create more time for health, creativity, and relationships. Removing distractions makes it easier to focus on goals and self-care.

For many, reducing physical clutter has a domino effect—less housework, fewer decisions, and more time to enjoy life. And it all begins with a simple challenge: remove one thing a day and see where it leads.

A Path to Greater Clarity and Control

Minimalism isn’t a trend—it’s a practical shift that helps build a life rooted in intention. The 30-day rule is just the start. Over time, habits form, and priorities change. Whether it’s clearing out a room or organizing your digital space, the changes often lead to a stronger sense of clarity and control.

By reducing the excess, what’s left becomes more valuable. And that might be the most rewarding part of living with less.