I took a leap of faith when I popped on this eery titled documentary. The negative connotation that comes with the world ‘minimalism’ didn’t make me think that the message this film carried could completely change my way of thinking. Minimalism reminds me of being stingy, not ever ordering the appetizer, and not having more than two pairs of shoes and the documentary does demonstrate some extreme cases that will make most run and hide. But if we step back and look at the big picture and ideas the film conveys, minimalism can be much, much more, if you let it be.
The idea that our physical stuff- things, and possessions have power over us is a controversial idea and is important. We think we NEED the new iPhone, Uggs, or seven bedroom apartment because our minds are addicted to the feeling that we get when buying something new. All of our purchases don’t usually bring us long term happiness, but a more complex predicament.
Minimalism suggests that we should think about what we really must have, what brings us long term joy, and not just buy or do things because society says that it is what everyone else is buying or doing. Happiness can mean many things for many people, and minimalists say that this concept is just realizing what we really need to reach that true happiness. I know I don’t need two eyelash curlers, fifteen eyeshadow palettes, and twenty tubes of lipstick but it makes me happy, and that’s what matters. I also know that the money I could have saved on clothes and shoes could take me to Hawaii for spring break, and the thought of that brings me the blues. If we all take a minute to reflect on all the pointless purchases we have made without thinking, then I’m sure many- if not all- could also have a better place for money to be spent; That is the true meaning of minimalism.
I think this time in our lives as college students is the perfect time for the message of this documentary. What is happiness to YOU? Not society's idea of what happiness should be. If that is saving the money you would spend going out to dinner every week on a trip, then do it! Or if you really don’t think college is for you and you would rather live a simple life on the beach, then so be it! But we should be making sure what we have our mind set on is what we truly want for ourselves.
Minimalism can also be taken in a non-literal or material sense; Not with objects or possessions but with time or people. We should spend our time wisely, and not have any regrets. We are in our prime years! Should we be hopping right from high school, to college, to work without pausing to enjoy the sunset? Maybe that is happiness to some, but is it for you? Did you skip out on going to Mexico with your friends because you had to study? Or keep to the system, school then work, school then work, and not think about if that makes you happy? I know I did.
The elderly’s most common regret is not taking time to do the thing they always wanted to do, see what they wanted to see, and not spending enough time with the people they love most. They say that they were so brainwashed by work, money and the idea of success, that they missed out on what was most important to them.
Society can screw off with their ideas of success and happiness. We need to make the most out of our lives.
Buy that car, that plane ticket, or that house if that makes you warm and giddy. Get on that plane, train, or subway and don’t look back. Go see gramps, nana, and memaw on the weekends instead of going to that work meeting. But most importantly, take time to reflect on yourself. Is this really what I want? Is this going to make me happy? Is this my idea of happiness? If not then turn your head, take a breath and start building your own path.
