Uploaded February 2019 | Updated September 2026, 2 hours ago
Minimalism is not about a Spartan existence. It is about making sure you can afford the things that add the greatest value and enjoyment to your life. Nor is it about pursuing a lifelong extreme frugality. There is no point in making a lot of money if all you do is chase bills and pay debts. But there is also no point in living on $25,000/year if you have a nest egg earning 5% that will allow you to spend $35,000/year, if you want to, and not spend more than 2% of your retirement account. Compulsive minimalism is just as much a form of self torture as compulsive consumption. Getting the balance right is the key.
Minimalism is not about a Spartan existence. It is about making sure you can afford the things that add the greatest value and enjoyment to your life. Nor is it about pursuing a lifelong extreme frugality. There is no point in making a lot of money if all you do is chase bills and pay debts. But there is also no point in living on $25,000/year if you have a nest egg earning 5% that will allow you to spend $35,000/year, if you want to, and not spend more than 2% of your retirement account. Compulsive minimalism is just as much a form of self torture as compulsive consumption. Getting the balance right is the key.
