If You Think Minimalism Is Just a Euphemism for Frugality, Think Again

Landscape: Window Overlooking the Woods. Édouard Vuillard, 1899. Courtesy the Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago.

Minimalism seeks not the lowest cost, but the highest value.

There’s a persistent idea out there that I believe is one of the most damaging stereotypes surrounding minimalism: the notion that it’s simply another word for frugality. You know the picture. Not spending any money, being really cheap about things, maybe even recycling paper towels, or owning just one pair of shoes. While extreme examples might exist, equating the entire philosophy of minimalism with mere penny-pinching profoundly misses the point and, frankly, makes it far less appealing to many.

When minimalism gets reduced to a constant state of deprivation—a life lived on a perpetual shoestring budget, devoid of small joys, almost like existing in a monastery—it’s no wonder people feel it’s too restrictive or just not for them. This financial-centric view often gets amplified when we see stories of downsizing that focus almost exclusively on budget and cost of living, overshadowing the deeper principles at play.

But the truth is, minimalism, at its core, isn't inherently about money or how expensive something is. It is, quite simply, about what the word itself suggests, removing excess from your life. It's a deliberate choice to curate your surroundings and your schedule, clearing away the clutter that doesn't genuinely serve you or bring you joy. This includes physical possessions, commitments, or even mental burdens. 

Minimalism is about intentionality, not just cost-cutting. While financial benefits can certainly be a byproduct of living more minimally, the driving force is a desire for more clarity, more space, and more focus on what truly holds value in your individual life. It's a far richer and more personal pursuit than simply tightening the purse strings.

Curious about a minimalism that’s defined by freedom from excess, not just by perceived sacrifice? Download a free preview of Worthwhile & Worth Having to unpack these ideas further. And be sure to find me at @hellosukio on Instagram and Substack.