Hello Lykkers! Ever felt stuck between two versions of minimalism? We've all been there! You want a clean, clutter-free home, but after getting rid of so many things, your space still doesn't look like those picture-perfect Instagram rooms.

That's when the confusion kicks in—are we chasing minimalism as a style or a lifestyle? Let's dig into the differences and figure out which one suits you better!

Minimalist Style

Minimalist style is all about clean, visually appealing aesthetics. If you love strolling through Muji, admire Scandinavian home decor, or find yourself drawn to simple, neutral-colored interiors, you're likely leaning toward minimalist style.

Here's what defines this approach:

1) Surface Perfection

A minimalist style focuses heavily on keeping visible surfaces tidy and spotless. Hidden storage solutions are key. Think of sleek cabinets where everything is out of sight. If open shelves are unavoidable, try the “7-5-1 Rule” from The Art of Discarding:

Open shelves should be only 50% full. Decorative surfaces like countertops should have just 10% of their space occupied. This approach makes your space look effortlessly organized and polished.

2) Space, Not Stuff

Love empty spaces? Minimalist style thrives on the feeling of openness. If there's an empty corner at home, resist the urge to fill it. Enjoy the freedom that open space brings. Ask yourself: “Will this new item add value or disrupt the overall balance?”

3) Neutral Color Palette

Neutral tones like beige, gray, and white dominate minimalist style because they create a calm, timeless atmosphere. If you've experimented with a capsule wardrobe, you know that neutral colors allow endless mix-and-match possibilities. The same goes for home decor—neutral tones make spaces feel serene and cohesive.

Minimalist Lifestyle

Unlike the visually-driven minimalist style, a minimalist lifestyle focuses on reducing material desires and living with intention. It's not about how many things you own but about prioritizing what truly matters.

Here's what defines a minimalist lifestyle:

1) Know Your “Why”

Why do you want a minimalist lifestyle? Are you seeking simplicity to free up time, save money, or focus on meaningful goals? For me, minimalism helps me stay focused. Too much clutter distracts me and lowers my productivity. As a busy homemaker, I prefer having fewer things to clean, maintain, and worry about.

2) Declutter with Purpose

Once you identify your “why,” it's time to start decluttering. But there's no one-size-fits-all method. Some prefer the slow and steady “one item a day” approach, while others dive into intense challenges like The Minimalist Challenge to see quicker results.

If decluttering feels overwhelming, start with easy areas first to build momentum. Gaining small wins boosts your confidence and prepares you for tackling tougher zones later.

3) Smart Shopping Habits

Decluttering isn't enough if we keep bringing unnecessary items back home. Analyzing past shopping habits helps prevent future clutter. Ask yourself:

Did I buy this because it was on sale?

Was it an impulse purchase?

Does it really add value to my life?

Learning from past mistakes helps you avoid accumulating “future clutter.”

Can You Combine Both?

Absolutely! Minimalist style and lifestyle can go hand in hand. You can enjoy a beautiful, clutter-free home while embracing a low-material, intentional lifestyle. The key is balance—keep the elements that matter most to you while letting go of what doesn't.

Final Thoughts: What's Your Pick?

So, Lykkers, which path appeals to you more? Do you lean toward a minimalist style where everything looks clean and curated? Or do you prefer a minimalist lifestyle where you focus on reducing material desires and living intentionally? Maybe you want a mix of both!

Let's chat! Share your thoughts and tell us which version of minimalism speaks to your heart.