Minimalism for introverts, written by an introvert
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Characteristics of Introverts
Are you an introvert? Do you constantly find yourself needing to recharge from social situations? If so, then you are not alone. Introverts actually make up 25-40% of the population, but you may feel like you are the only one a lot of the time.
As explained by many psychologists, an introvert is a person who gains energy by being alone and an extrovert is someone who gains it when they are surrounded by others. I found this explanation to be really helpful, being an introvert myself, because it made me understand myself more. Introverts aren’t anti-social, they just need more time to recharge after social situations and enjoy spending time alone or one-on-one with people.
Introverts already have so much going on inside of their minds that external stimuli can be overwhelming sometimes. This is why introverts don’t like large crowds and loud noises. Many introverts, myself included, also don’t like a lot of clutter or messes. This is also for the same reason that there is already so much going on in my mind that visual clutter can feel so overwhelming!
Benefits Minimalism for Introverts
Did you know that introverts are more naturally drawn to minimalism than extroverts? One reason for this might be because introverts spend a lot more time in their homes than extroverts. If you are an introvert and have never considered minimalism, here are some of the main benefits of minimalism for introverts:
1. Minimalism Makes You Feel Less Stressed
It shouldn’t be a surprise that having less stuff to worry about reduces stress. When you don’t have more than you can reasonably handle, you will feel more at ease and intentional about they way you live your life! This goes for anyone but is especially true for introverts! Introverts pay attention to the details, so having less to worry about gives them time to focus on the things that actually matter to them. It also reduces stress because you aren’t wasting energy on things that might not even matter that much to you.
2. Minimalism Provides a Neat Home for Recharging
You might feel exhausted after a long day of work, school, or social event and coming home to a messy, cluttered home can be overwhelming. This is true for everyone, but is especially stressful for an introvert. Introverts need more time to recharge and do the things they love at home.
Having too much clutter can cause our minds to feel chaotic rather than calming. When you have a messy house to tidy up, this takes up some of that recharging time. It also doesn’t give your mind a chance to relax because of the visual clutter. There is just something about clear surfaces with minimal objects on them that makes me feel so much at peace! Can you relate? Introverts spend a lot of their free time at home, so ensuring it is a safe, enjoyable space is extremely beneficial for your well-being.
3. Minimalism Helps Introverts be More Productive
Introverts are typically very creative, thoughtful, and driven. Having a space that allows you to focus is key to being successful in whatever it is you are doing. A minimalist lifestyle provides a clutter free home which gives the mind more space to create and think. It doesn’t cause any distractions because introverts are very detail oriented and are more likely to focus on clutter surrounding them than on their work.
I work from home and I know that it is very distracting to me when the dishes aren’t done or the laundry isn’t put away. I always find myself doing those tasks first because I can do anything else! A minimalist approach to life will allow you more freedom and time to do what you love. Time that you otherwise might have spent cleaning and organizing all the clutter day after day!
If you are an introvert considering a minimalist lifestyle but know where to start, I have some minimalist tips to help you on your journey! Let me know what you think in the comments down below 🙂
