Following decades of a steadily growing cultural obsession with accumulating as much stuff as financially possible—there is a movement of individuals who are saying no. They see the harm that big corporations and marketing strategies are doing to people by playing into their every insecurity for a profit, and they see the way that the majority of modern life is spent using things to cover those insecurities up. Many of these people are seen as radicals for their decision to eschew consumption but, for the most part, they claim to be happier without it. They live in clean, airy houses, and they hold good boundaries. They use terms, such as “honoring my priorities,” or “healing my consumption habits,” unironically. They know what they want, and don’t waste time or money on what they don’t, and are almost always up for a mindful activity or meaningful experience. They are minimalists and, if you are reading this, you might soon be one too.

This book, like many others of its nature, aims to help you move on from a life of mixed up priorities and a home that feels more claustrophobic than cozy.

Though it doesn’t offer much in terms of black-and-white instructions, it does acknowledge that, at least for the decisions you will have to make in order to clean your house and clear your mind, you are the one who determines the rules and therefore the results.

With an overview of each room in your home and a reflection on the value attached to certain aspects of minimalism, Minimalism, Lead a Meaningful Life: A Beginners Guide to Decluttering your Home brings you the self-aware middle ground of books on minimalism, free of judgement and rich in action.

Listener beware: If you are not ready to change your life, evaluate your priorities, or are hoping to do a little light listening without making any real adjustments to your home or lifestyle, find another book.

With the help of journaling questions, room by room guides, and intermittent breaks to check in and consider your level of mindfulness as you go, this book is a book for working along to.

However, if you are determined, and if your aim is to carve out space in your home to think, work, enjoy, and live in peace, you may just have come to the right place.

Work along with this beginner’s guide for decluttering your home as we define your goals for a happier more peaceful life and apply that context as we take on your mess room by room, item by item.

Learn how to use your decluttering process as a sensible and societally aware way to benefit the environment and your community.

And, when all is said and done, learn how to enjoy your beautiful, intentional new space with a secure foundation in your own competence and autonomy. We look forward to joining you.