Choosing What Stays as a Minimalist

Living with less stuff has given me both physical and mental freedom.

That said, when I accidentally broke my favourite cup that had been with me since day one of this “One Minimal Life” journey, it felt overwhelming.

But that moment let me reflect on what I own and how these things actually serve my life.

So here I ‘d love to share my minimalist essentials that have stayed for years without being decluttered.

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1: Pocket Bluetooth Speaker

This tiny speaker has been with me for over five years. I’m pleased with its sound quality, which works well from soundscapes to audiobooks.

It also keeps me away from my phone for a moment. I can have music playing whilst I read a physical book without my phone beside me. And I can carry it around in my pocket!

2: Non-Camper’s Camping Stool

Although camping isn’t my cup of tea, I love sitting in nature for hours. Since it’s so light, I can easily put it in my tote bag and take it to the park.

It means I can sit anywhere without worrying about wet grass, hunting around for benches, or paying for seating.

*Below is not exactly the same as the one above, but closest.

3: Simple Containers

Simple travel containers from MUJI, in sizes from standard to super tiny ones like the size of a thumb, work well for tiny bags.

I can even decant toothpaste and concealer when I only need small amounts. They solve all the fuss of airport security for those of us who travel without checked luggage.

The waterproof PP zip cases were sold as stationery pouches in the MUJI store. I use them for travel packing, keeping bags organised, and making it easy to see what’s inside.

4: Fitness Belt as EDC

When I pop out for local walks, I prefer to be bag-free. Since most of my clothes are fitted with small pockets or none at all, this simple belt comes in handy.

It’s designed for fitness, but I’ve repurposed it for minimal living. It lets me stay active and hands-free whilst carrying just the essentials: phone, keys and card case. It keeps things secure so nothing falls off.

5: Aesthetic One-Touch Earrings

I want simple, unique accessories that are easy to put on and take off and that are comfortable enough for me to forget I’m wearing them.

These have become my default earrings since I found them. I can easily put them on with a single click, and even on a tricky place like the Tragus.

Their minimal aesthetic design suits any occasion. So, I stopped browsing various options a while ago and I’ve now been on a five-year no-buy streak!

6: All-Season T-Shirts

Although it says ‘Heat’ on the label, I wear these throughout the year in the UK.

I can choose them without a second thought since they go with anything, saving me so much time. No more “nothing to wear”

I have the same style with short sleeves, thin long sleeves and thick long sleeves.

They’re snug-fit, so they can be dressed up or down for any occasion, from casual to smart. And they can be fold into the same shapes that sit neatly in the drawer.

7: Simplified Nail Routine with Buffer Block

I’ve switched from traditional manicures to this simple buffer block. It saves money, time, and effort whilst actually improving nail health.

This buffer has a unique long shape, which makes it easier to hold with less back-and-forth motion compared to standard half-sized versions.

8: Don’t Declutter Copic Markers

I’ve kept these Copic Markers since my school days. Unlike generic art pens that can fade, dry out, or start leaking after decades, they still work well.

They’re not cheap, but since I haven’t needed to buy or hunt for other art pens in decades, they’ve been worthwhile.

Even after a decade away from drawing, if you have Copic Markers, keep them even if you’re not using them now – you’ll be amazed they’re still in good condition.

Lasting Relationships with What You Already Have

Sometimes, though, I have to say goodbye to beloved items sooner than expected.

Everything has its moment; nothing lasts forever. So when the time comes, I cherish the relationship I’ve had completely.

That’s why I want to appreciate what I already have and recognise the strength and value they bring, rather than constantly thinking about what to declutter or replace.

How to Choose What Stays

When you’re deciding whether to keep something or let it go, try asking one simple question:

“How do I live with this item?”

• Things that will help your daily life for months rather than days
• Items that can do several jobs
• Choices that align with what matters to you

Taking time before buying helps. Leave them for a week, then come back to see if you still want them.

You might forget about them or find something better suited to your needs.

It means not settling for something that isn’t quite right.

For more visual storytelling and real-life demos, please visit One Minimal Life YouTube Channel.

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