Do you ever feel like you are constantly juggling too many objects, thoughts, and obligations?

Not long after my husband and I decided to keep our household a duo—no children, just us—I realized we had more space than we actually needed, both physically and mentally. 

I remember standing in our living room one morning, mentally exhausted by the clutter, yet unsure how to begin simplifying.

That moment pushed me to explore what minimalism truly means, beyond donating old clothes or tidying up the kitchen counter. I learned that a minimalist lifestyle involves much more than neat shelves. It’s a practice of purpose, mindfulness, and letting go of what weighs us down.

Below are five rules I live by that keep my life tidy and my mind free from unnecessary stress. They might help you, too. 

1. The One In, One Out Rule

Let’s kick off with a pretty simple one. Every time you bring something new into your home—whether it’s a piece of clothing, a kitchen gadget, or even a book—something else has to go. This keeps clutter from creeping back in and forces you to be intentional about what you own.

For example, if you buy a new pair of shoes, donate or discard an old pair that no longer serves you. This habit not only keeps your space manageable but also helps you reconsider impulse purchases. Do you really need that new item, or is it just a momentary want?

By following the One In, One Out Rule, you ensure that your surroundings remain balanced, preventing the slow buildup of unnecessary stuff. It’s a small habit with a big impact on keeping your life tidy and stress-free.

2. The 20/20 Rule

This is one I learned from The Minimalists, and it makes so much sense. The idea is simple: If you’re holding onto something “just in case” but could replace it for less than $20 and in under 20 minutes, you probably don’t need to keep it.

We often hold onto things out of fear—fear that we might need them someday. But in reality, most of these items just take up space and add unnecessary mental clutter. That extra charger you never use, the pile of random cords, the duplicate kitchen utensils—how often do they really come in handy?

By applying the 20/20 Rule, you free yourself from the weight of unnecessary possessions while realizing that, in the rare event you do need something, replacing it is usually easier and cheaper than you thought. It’s a great way to cut down on the “just in case” clutter and keep your space streamlined.

3. The 6-Months Rule

So this one was pretty hard for me at first, but once I embraced it, it became a game-changer. The rule is simple: If you haven’t used something in the last six months—and don’t see yourself using it in the next six—you probably don’t need it.

We tend to hold onto things because of nostalgia, guilt, or the idea that maybe we’ll need them one day. But if an item has been sitting untouched for half a year, chances are it’s just taking up space. Clothes you might wear again, old gadgets collecting dust, kitchen tools you thought you’d use—they all add to the mental and physical clutter.

Of course, there are exceptions (seasonal items like winter coats or holiday decorations), but for most things, this rule helps cut through the hesitation. Letting go of what no longer serves you creates more room for what truly matters.

4. “If it isn’t a clear yes, then it’s a clear no.“

This is one I picked up from Greg McKeown’s book Essentialism, and it’s perhaps the most important rule on this list. 

It doesn’t just apply to the things we own—it applies to how we spend our time, energy, and attention.

The idea is simple: If something doesn’t excite you, add real value to your life, or align with your priorities, say no. Whether it’s a new purchase, a social event, or a work commitment, if your gut reaction isn’t a strong yes, it’s probably not worth your time or space.

We often overcommit out of guilt, obligation, or fear of missing out. But filling our days with half-hearted “yeses” leads to overwhelm and burnout. By only saying yes to what truly matters, we free up space for what brings us joy, fulfillment, and peace.

Minimalism isn’t just about decluttering things—it’s about decluttering our lives. And setting boundaries with this rule is one of the most powerful ways to do that.

05. Choose Less But Better

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned about minimalism is that having fewer things allows you to have better things. 

For instance, instead of filling your space with cheap, disposable items, invest in quality pieces that truly serve you.

This applies to everything—clothes, furniture, kitchen tools, even friendships and commitments. When you stop chasing quantity and start prioritizing quality, life becomes simpler and more intentional. 

A well-made jacket that lasts for years is far better than a closet full of fast fashion that barely survives a season. A few deep, meaningful relationships are far more fulfilling than a hundred surface-level connections.

By choosing better, we reduce decision fatigue, save money in the long run, and create a life filled with things (and people) that genuinely add value. 

Final thoughts

Minimalism isn’t a strict rulebook or a set of impossible expectations. 

At its core, it’s a commitment to choosing what enriches your life and gently releasing what doesn’t. I’ve seen how liberating it can be in my own experience, from a simpler home environment to a steadier emotional life.

I hope you find your own rhythm in minimalist living. If you decide to try any of these ideas, pay attention to how they shift your daily experiences. You might find that what you let go of is far less valuable than what you gain.