What Minimalism Means for My Wallet
There’s something quietly satisfying about holding a wallet that doesn’t bulge like a stuffed sausage. Mine is a slim Pokémon-themed number — a little nostalgic, a little cheeky, and honestly, just the right size for what I actually need. Over the last decade, minimalism has helped me cut down not just what’s in my wallet but also how I spend my money — and, more importantly, how I spend my time.
Minimalism didn’t just sneak into my life; it showed up when I was searching for something more — something easier. Over ten years ago, I devoured minimalist books (mostly audiobooks, because hey, multitasking), and started decluttering stuff I’d held onto for years. It felt like clearing space in my life and my wallet at the same time.
Shrinking the Wallet: How I Changed My Spending
One of the first big changes I made was ditching loyalty cards. Sounds small, but saying goodbye to those little reminders nudging me toward spending at Nero, Costa, Tesco, or Co-op made a difference. Without those cards staring back at me, my wallet literally shrunk by about 60%. Now, it’s just a handful of cards and my ID tucked inside that Pokémon wallet I mentioned. A simple change like this saved me from unnecessary spending — and that’s the heart of minimalism for my money.
How Minimalism Showed Up in My Life (And Why It Stayed)
Minimalism isn’t just about having fewer things — it’s about creating space to focus on what matters. I still have a PS1 and games I love — not because I’m failing at decluttering, but because they spark something meaningful. The difference now is I’m intentional. Every item I keep has a reason, and everything I let go of gives me more room — mentally, physically, and yes, financially.
Financial Wins: How My Bank Balance Improved
Since embracing minimalism, my bills have dropped by around 20%, and my everyday spending is down by 20–30%. That’s not because I’m pinching pennies constantly, but because I’m more intentional. For example, I needed new shorts — those with holes had to go! If I wasn’t happy with the shorts the first time around, I might’ve bought 3, 4, even 5 pairs. But the two I got have lasted three years and still suit me. This mindset also helps me avoid window shopping — no more hunting for the next “better” pair or impulse buying things I don’t need.
Spending with Intention: Choosing What Really Matters
Minimalism taught me to ask, “Do I actually need this?” Not just once, but every time. It’s about quality over quantity. And when I do treat myself, it’s on purpose — like the fancy ginger elderflower kombucha I picked up last weekend. Was it necessary? Absolutely not. Did I love every sip? You bet. Minimalism didn’t take away my treats — it just made them feel more like little celebrations.
Technology and Slowing Down in a Fast World
My favourite “make do” inspiration? My mum. She’s patched her favourite curtains at least three times over the last 20 years — fixing strings, swapping out pegs, whatever it takes. It’s not just frugality, it’s care. I try to carry that mindset. Take my phone: I was ready to replace it just because it was annoying me. But instead of buying new, I got a clear case and added a Growlithe sticker. Now it makes me smile every time I pick it up. That’s what minimalism means for my wallet — less reacting, more delight in the small fixes.
The Challenges of Letting Go
Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. Letting go of old tech, clothes with holes I’m sentimentally attached to, or beloved consoles is hard. Some things hold memories, identity, or comfort. But minimalism gently reminds me it’s okay to keep what matters and release what doesn’t.
Decluttering: The Ongoing Journey
Letting go is still hard. Old tech, holey T-shirts, things that hold memories — they’re not easy to part with. But I’ve found a rhythm. Listening to minimalist audiobooks (shoutout to Marie Kondo and The Minimalists) keeps me grounded. They remind me this isn’t about being ruthless — it’s about being real. And each time I release something, I get a little more space — in my home, in my head, and yes, in my wallet.
Gentle Questions for the Road: Reflecting on Minimalism and Money
Right now, I’m still working on letting go of some tech and nostalgic items. But overall, minimalism has helped me spend less, slow down, and focus on what truly matters.
Here are a few gentle questions to leave you with:
- What’s one thing in your wallet or spending habits that you could simplify to make life easier?
- How does your spending reflect what you truly value?
- Are there any possessions you’re holding on to that no longer serve you but feel hard to let go of?
Minimalism isn’t a checklist or a finish line — it’s a way to find space for what’s really important, both in your wallet and your life.