The Top 10 Reasons People Become Minimalists

Wondering why minimalism is so popular? I asked my readers, and the results are in. From mental health and environmental impact to lowering stress levels, here are the top 10 reasons people embrace minimalism—some may surprise you!

When I first discovered minimalism, it wasn’t because of perfectly curated capsule wardrobes or binge-worthy Netflix shows. It was stress—the kind of stress that comes from juggling too much: motherhood, grief, health challenges, and a career.

For a while, life felt so far out of my control, and letting go of unnecessary belongings became my way of taking it back. By simplifying the physical stuff, our home became a place of peace instead of a source of overwhelm. The time and energy I reclaimed from managing less clutter and fewer possessions allowed me to focus on what truly mattered, especially during our more challenging seasons.

But my minimalism why is only one of many—the reasons people simplify are as unique as their lives.

I reached out to our community to learn more about what sparks others to embrace minimalism. Hundreds of readers shared their personal journeys and reasons for pursuing a simpler life. While every story was unique, a few key themes emerged—some of which I hadn’t considered before.

Here are the 10 most common reasons people are drawn to minimalism:

1. Stress relief

Overwhelming schedules, demanding jobs, family obligations, and the chaos of clutter—it’s no surprise that stress is a major motivator for adopting a minimalist lifestyle. Simplifying your environment and commitments creates space to breathe and a sense of calm amidst life’s chaos. When life feels unmanageable, minimalism, especially the act of decluttering, offers a way to regain clarity and control.

“When I was single, I was minimalist without realizing it. A marriage and thee kids later, I found my life and surroundings to be chaotic. I decided to start a healing journey. I went back to minimalism, which was and still is a way to ease stress and give space and time for what really matters.”

“A cluttered home added to my anxiety. Letting go of things helped me reclaim peace.”

2. More intentionality and time for what matters

In a world where it’s easy to feel stretched thin, minimalism allows you to reclaim time for the things that truly matter. By reducing the physical and mental clutter, you have fewer distractions and can create room for what brings joy and fulfillment—whether it’s quality time with loved ones, hobbies, or simply slowing down to enjoy life.

“My mom is 86 and lives with me. I need to have time for her. I also have a daughter, married with four children. I’d much rather be watching the older grandkids at their sporting events and band concerts or watching the littles learn and grow than anything else. All the stuff gets in the way of those things sometimes.”

“I am much older than you, but I came to minimalism at the same stage of life that you did. My goal then was to strip away the unimportant hassles in life and make more time for the people I love and the things I enjoy. That is still my goal today. It’s a never-ending struggle, as there are always new challenges to face.”

3. Creating a lighter legacy

Many readers shared how sorting through a loved one’s belongings after their passing inspired them to simplify. They didn’t want to leave behind a burden of clutter for their own families. Minimalism is a way to ensure the legacy we leave is one of love and cherished memories, not boxes of unused belongings.

“After each of my elderly parents passed, it took me a lot of time and effort to clear their home. I know that I do not want my own adult children to face such a burden.”

“I don’t want to leave my clutter for my children or anyone else to deal with. I was a house cleaner for years, and even though I loved my customers—who became like family over the years—it was an eye-opener when someone got sick, passed away, or went to a nursing home. I saw the stress it put on the family, and I never want to do that to my loved ones.”

4. Managing health conditions

For some, minimalism is more than just a lifestyle—it’s a tool for improving health. Readers noted that simplifying their environments helped manage conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, and migraines. A calmer, more organized space has tangible mental and physical health benefits.

“I deal with chronic migraines, which are exacerbated by stress and overstimulation. Reducing the number of “things” in my life helps my brain function better, so I can finally enjoy my time with precious people in my life.”

“I developed post-natal depression and anxiety with my second baby. I found the stuff we owned completely overwhelming, and I never felt I could keep up with even the most basic household jobs. After spending about a year going through every part of our house, I finally felt it was all under control.”

5. Less cleaning and maintenance

Owning fewer material possessions means spending less time cleaning and maintaining them—a simple yet powerful motivator for many. Imagine a home where tidying up doesn’t feel like a never-ending chore, allowing you to enjoy your space instead of constantly managing it.

“Less time cleaning and less time trying to fit everything in the closet means more time with my family. More time actually enjoying living in my house rather than doing chores constantly!”

“I felt like my life was all about cleaning and fixing—it became my excuse not to live life.”

6. Prioritizing experiences

Minimalism frees up resources to focus on experiences instead of possessions. By owning less, you can invest more in family vacations, creative pursuits, or spontaneous adventures. Experiences create lasting memories that bring far more joy than material items ever could.

“Less stress, less cleaning, more memories.”

“I now focus on experiences. We just did spring break on the Gulf Coast. Seeing the kids experience New Orleans, alligators, dolphins, white sand beaches, boogie boarding, and so much more was the best use of our money.”

7. A dislike for clutter

For some, minimalism is rooted in a deep dislike for clutter. Whether it stems from growing up in a chaotic home or simply preferring open, airy spaces, a clutter-free environment brings peace and clarity. Visual simplicity can have a profound impact on mental well-being.

“I grew up in a cluttered old farmhouse, almost a hoarding situation. It was very difficult to keep clean or to maintain your possessions that way. I was always mortified if someone stayed over when I was a kid.”

“Stuff gives me anxiety!”

“So much stuff and visual clutter makes me anxious. When I tried to put it away, there was nowhere for it to go, making the problem worse. Having less keeps my home in order, which helps me to enjoy my home and things instead of stressing about them.”

8. Environmental concerns

Minimalism aligns with sustainable living by reducing waste, reducing consumerism and consumption habits, and promoting intentional purchasing decisions. Living with less isn’t just good for us—it’s better for the planet, too.

“I’m a grandmother who worries about my grandchildren’s future, especially where the environment is concerned. My generation was told that acquiring ‘stuff’ would make us happy. I grew up in a cluttered home and was an adult before I discovered that clutter affected me negatively. Now that I have discovered that, I’m actively trying to change. I resent the time necessary to care for some of that ‘stuff,’ so I’m trying to eliminate it. I’m trying to leave a lighter legacy and try to consider the environment when I purchase.”

9. Financial freedom

Minimalist living helps you save money by helping you prioritize needs over wants. When you buy less, you can reduce financial stress and invest in better-quality items you truly need or love. Minimalism isn’t about deprivation; it’s about making meaningful choices with your resources.

“We had a financial constraint and tried not to buy things we didn’t need. Not working has also forced me to budget. It is more of a blessing than I realized.”

10. Parenthood

Many parents shared how the demands of raising kids inspired them to simplify. Having less makes family life more manageable and enjoyable. Minimalism creates space for what matters most—our children and the moments we share with them.

“I’m finding life a real battle, struggling between motherhood and managing a home—so much to clean, tidy, and cook, but my children want me to play, which leaves me feeling torn and guilty regardless of my decision.”

“Overwhelm. Being a single mum of three kids and having to do everything.”

“Being a full-time working mom, I had to simplify my life, and I wanted to make fewer decisions.”


Other minimalism articles you might enjoy:


What’s your minimalism why?

These ten reasons highlight the variety of motivations and benefits of minimalism. What inspired you to embrace a simpler life? Was it stress, a desire for more time, or something entirely different?

Share your story in a comment below—I’d love to hear what’s inspired your own minimalism journey.

Author: Elle Penner M.P.H., R.D.

I'm Elle, Registered Dietitian and minimalism-obsessed mama with a thing for simplifying, particularly when it comes to clutter, calendars, and family meals. Favorite things include carbs, cooking, kid-free workouts, and high-waisted yoga pants.

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