What if I told you that living a better life doesn’t mean accumulating more stuff? In fact, what if the secret to a richer, more fulfilling existence lay in owning less, but owning the right things?
For years, I lived by a minimalist mantra: own only what’s essential, get rid of the excess, and live simply. On the surface, it worked. My space was uncluttered, my finances were stable, and I thought I had everything figured out. But deep down, something wasn’t sitting right. It was as if I was missing out on life’s true pleasures, the kinds of experiences or possessions that could enhance my day-to-day life or shape my future in a more meaningful way.
Then, everything changed. A few months ago, I stumbled upon a concept that completely flipped my perspective: practical materialism.
What is Practical Materialism?
Practical materialism is not about hoarding things or showing off expensive brands. It’s not about the latest fashion trends or gadgets. Instead, it’s about being intentional with what you own. It’s about surrounding yourself with items that add value to your life—things that help you improve your health, increase your wealth, or free up your time. These aren’t just random possessions; they are tools that serve a purpose.
Prioritizing Health with Smart Purchases
Did you know that we spend about a third of our lives sleeping? When I realized this, I realized how essential it was to invest in quality sleep. I made a commitment to invest in a better mattress, bedding, and sleep essentials. After doing a lot of research, I found 100% Tencel sheets—an eco-friendly material that not only feels luxurious but also helps regulate my temperature while I sleep. The results? I wake up feeling refreshed, my skin looks better, and I feel more energized throughout the day.
Fitness is another area where I’ve embraced practical materialism. While I once thought a basic gym membership was enough, the pandemic changed everything. Now, I’ve invested in quality home fitness equipment, such as a durable yoga mat, a smart fitness tracker, and running shoes that provide exceptional support. These investments have allowed me to stay fit and injury-free, even during challenging times. The right gear makes all the difference in maintaining a consistent, sustainable fitness routine.
Wealth Benefits: Shifting From Saving to Investing
As a minimalist, I was focused on owning less and saving more, which helped me create a financially stable life. But I quickly realized that this mindset was limiting my potential for wealth creation.
When I embraced practical materialism, I started seeing money and assets as tools for growth. For example, my view on real estate shifted. I no longer saw property merely as a place to live but as an investment opportunity. By prioritizing quality and location, I made smart investments in renovations, which increased the property’s value over time.
The same applies to my work as a content creator. Initially, I relied on my smartphone to create videos, but the quality was lacking. I decided to invest in a professional camera, microphone, lighting, and editing software. Although these investments were significant, they elevated the quality of my content, which in turn led to better engagement and a potential increase in revenue.
Investing in Time: The Power of Automation
Time is one of the most valuable resources we have, and it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind. But what if you could automate certain aspects of your life, freeing up hours that could be better spent elsewhere? That’s where practical materialism comes in.
Take my robot vacuum cleaner, Henry, for example. As a minimalist, I avoided gadgets like this, seeing them as unnecessary. But once I realized how much time Henry saved me, I saw the value in investing in smart home technology. Now, instead of spending time cleaning, I can focus on hobbies, relaxation, or spending quality time with loved ones.
Another area where I’ve found value is my wardrobe. In my minimalist days, I only owned a handful of clothes, and it sometimes felt restrictive. Today, I’ve curated a collection of durable, timeless pieces. This mix of variety and simplicity reduces decision fatigue, which means I spend less time deciding what to wear and more time enjoying my day.
A Game-Changing Commute: The eBike Experience
Commuting used to be one of the most frustrating parts of my day. But then, I invested in an electric bike (eBike), and it changed everything. No longer stuck in traffic or dealing with rising gas prices, I now zip through bike paths and shortcuts, cutting my commute time significantly. More importantly, I arrive at work energized and ready to tackle the day.
Why Practical Materialism Works
At first, I thought that owning less was the key to a better life. But now I see that it’s not about how much you own—it’s about the quality of what you own and the intentions behind it. Practical materialism doesn’t mean mindlessly accumulating more stuff; it means making thoughtful, deliberate purchases that improve your well-being, productivity, and happiness.
When I buy something now, I ask myself, “Is this going to make a lasting difference in my life?” If the answer is no, I pass. It’s not about depriving myself of pleasure or comfort; it’s about making smarter choices that lead to a better life.
Conclusion: Embrace Practical Materialism for a Better Life
Practical materialism has allowed me to live a more meaningful life. It’s a streamlined approach that has helped me achieve a better balance between what I own and how I live. From investing in quality health products to smart home gadgets, I’ve learned that sometimes, owning fewer things can mean owning better things—things that make life simpler, more fulfilling, and more enjoyable.
So, the next time you think about buying something, ask yourself: Will this contribute to my health, wealth, or happiness in a meaningful way? If it will, then it might just be the right investment for your life.
