Minimalism is often seen as a simple “less is more” concept, but for me, it goes far beyond that. It’s not just about getting rid of things – it’s about freeing myself from overwhelming burdens, both physical and mental. Possessions come with responsibility, and the more you own, the more you have to take care of.
That’s a key realization for me: every item I own comes with a commitment.
I’m someone who takes care of his stuff, maintains it, keeps it in order.
But that in itself can become exhausting.
Possessions Can Be Suffocating – Too Much of Everything
I feel it especially in my video game collection.
There are so many games I’ve never played – and honestly, I’ll never have enough time in life to play them all.
And then it happens:
I want to start a new game – but which one?
I have so many choices that I can’t decide.
This “abundance problem” ends up with me not playing anything at all.
It’s just like Netflix or Prime Video: too many options make it hard to choose.
I spend ages browsing, trying to decide what to watch – and suddenly I realize I’ve spent an hour scrolling and still haven’t picked anything.
That’s the issue: possessions can paralyze.
How Minimalism Helps Me on the Path to Financial Freedom
This is where minimalism and financial independence come together for me.
All these things that weigh me down have value – and I can use that value to improve my future.
I’ve started selling my stuff.
Video games, movies, action figures, merchandise – everything that no longer serves a real purpose is going.
My old heavy metal battle jacket, covered in band patches – it’s going too.
Some of those patches now sell for 20–30 euros apiece because they’re rare.
That jacket was once worth over 500 euros – a small fortune, just sitting in my closet.
I’m 47 years old – do I really need a battle vest to go to concerts?
No. Those days are over.
And that’s the approach I take with everything now:
Does it serve a purpose in my present life?
If not – can it go?
If the answer is yes, it goes on eBay or into my “for sale” corner in the basement until someone else gives it new life.
Why I’d Rather Invest in Experiences Than Things
Minimalism doesn’t mean I deny myself everything – quite the opposite.
I just spend my money more intentionally.
Instead of wasting it on things that later weigh me down, I’d rather invest in:
Experiences like travel or quality time with friends
Investments that bring me long-term financial freedom
Everyday items that truly add value to my life
It’s not stingy to skip things that offer no real benefit – it’s smart.
Conclusion: Minimalism Is a Process, Not a Final Destination
I’m still at the beginning of my minimalist journey, but one thing is already clear:
Owning less means living more freely.
Freedom from clutter
Freedom from decision fatigue
Freedom to focus on what truly matters
Every item I let go of feels like one less weight on my shoulders.
And the money I make from it takes me one step closer to financial independence.
Minimalism isn’t about sacrifice –
It’s a conscious choice to focus on what truly matters.
And that feels damn good.
