Discover The Minimalists: Less Is Now – A Refreshing Dive into Minimalism | Pratibha’s Review

Think about that one item we all have tucked away somewhere – maybe it’s a broken toy, an old souvenir, or a lonely sock. It’s something that never quite makes it to the trash. But for many of us, it’s not just one item; it’s a whole collection of things. “We love stuff,” says author Dave Ramsey in the delightful documentary The Minimalists: Less is Now, and how true those words ring!

Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, the charming duo behind the minimalist movement, are back with their second Netflix adventure after Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things from 2015. Directed by the talented Matt D’Avella, this 53-minute gem dives into why adopting a minimalist lifestyle is crucial – a choice we might want to embrace sooner rather than later.

In our modern world, you can purchase anything with just a few clicks – from a tiny hairpin to a large house. The Internet has cleverly turned into a vast marketplace disguised as a fun, harmless place to explore. For example, some big giants like Amazon, Google, they sell everything under the sun, convincing us that these items are essential for our daily lives. Clever ads make these products look like our saviors, making us feel incomplete without them. But in reality, many of these things cost a lot of money and end up being of no use after a while because a newer option comes along. These companies make us believe we need these things to be happy, but it’s a trap. We must not be fooled by misleading ads. Instead, we should get rid of everything that’s sucking the life out of our souls.

Interestingly, the minimalist way of life is catching on, especially in the West. Whether it’s to save money or help the environment, people who’ve made the switch report wonderful changes. The idea of getting rid of unused items sounds simple, but it’s not as easy as it seems. “We often confuse simplicity with easy; living a simple life takes a lot of work,” Nicodemus clarifies, shattering a common misconception.

The film beautifully weaves together interviews with experts in economics and the environment, along with stories from everyday minimalists. Millburn and Nicodemus, in their captivating monologues, share their personal journeys, adding a delightful docu-drama touch. Even with a bit of dramatization and scripted lines, the documentary offers plenty to enjoy and ponder.

The Minimalists: Less is Now cleverly unveils our consumer habits, explains why we cling to clutter, offers a handy 30-day declutter plan, and highlights the perks of intentional living in a friendly, non-judgmental way. Despite a few minor flaws, it’s an inspiring film that resonates deeply with viewers.

So, how can we make our lives simpler and happier, just like the minimalists suggest? Here are some easy steps:

1. Start Small: Begin with one drawer or one shelf. Take everything out and only put back what you truly need or love. You’ll be surprised at how much you can let go of!
2. The 30-Day Rule: If you haven’t used something in the last 30 days, and don’t plan to use it in the next 30 days, it might be time to say goodbye to it. This rule helps in making quick decisions about what to keep.
3. One In, One Out: For every new item you bring into your home, let go of an old one. This keeps the clutter from piling up again.
4. Digital Declutter: Our digital lives can be cluttered too! Take time to organize your emails, photos, and files. Delete what you don’t need and create folders for the rest.
5. Mindful Buying: Before making a purchase, ask yourself if it’s something you really need or if it’s just a temporary want. This can save money and reduce clutter.
6. Donate and Share: Give away items you no longer need. There are many people who could use what you’re not using. Sharing not only helps others but also brings joy to you.
7. Create a Capsule Wardrobe: Instead of having a closet full of clothes you never wear, choose a few versatile pieces that you love and can mix and match. This not only reduces clutter but also makes getting dressed in the morning easier.
8. Plan Your Meals: A simple meal plan can save you time and reduce food waste. Cook in batches and freeze portions for later. This way, you won’t have to worry about what to cook every day.
9. Use Multipurpose Items: Opt for items that serve more than one purpose. For example, a sofa bed can be used for seating during the day and as a bed at night. This helps in maximizing space and reducing the need for extra furniture.
10. Practice Gratitude: Take a moment each day to appreciate what you have. This can shift your focus from what you lack to what you already possess, fostering contentment and reducing the desire for more.
11. Simplify Your Schedule: Cut down on activities that don’t add value to your life. Focus on what truly matters to you and allocate your time accordingly. This can reduce stress and create more time for things you enjoy.
12. Embrace Experiences Over Things: Instead of buying more stuff, invest in experiences that create lasting memories. Whether it’s a family trip, a new hobby, or a simple picnic in the park, experiences can bring more joy and fulfillment than material possessions.

The film shows our consumer habits, explains why we cling to junk, and highlights the benefits of intentional living in an encouraging and non-judgmental way. Even with minor flaws, Less is Now is an inspiring film that many people can relate to.

So, if you fancy a bit of thought-provoking entertainment, The Minimalists: Less Is Now is now streaming on Netflix, ready to take you on a journey towards a simpler, happier life. It’s a charming reminder that sometimes, less truly is more.

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