Make a list of the 10 most important objects in your life and then share it with a partner, explaining why they are so important. Finally, which one would you manage to get rid of more easily.
What is minimalism? If we had to sum it up in a single sentence, we would say,
Minimalism is a tool to rid yourself of life’s excess in favor of focusing on what’s important—so you can find happiness, fulfillment, and freedom. People who intentionally try to live with only the things they really need.”
I. Discuss with a partner. How do you think minimalism helps minimalists accomplish the following tasks. Make guesses if you don't know the answer.
Minimalism has helped us, minimalists…
- Eliminate our discontent
- Reclaim our time
- Live in the moment
- Pursue our passions
- Discover our missions
- Experience real freedom
- Create more, consume less
- Focus on our health
- Grow as individuals
- Contribute beyond ourselves
- Rid ourselves of excess stuff
- Discover purpose in our lives
- Inspired by these two awesome sites:
- http://www.theminimalists.com/minimalism/
II. Now read the details of minimalist behavior and check how they apply to the items in the previous exercise.
MINIMALISM IS INTENTIONALITY.
It is marked by clarity, purpose, and intentionality. At its core, minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of everything that distracts us from it.MINIMALISM IS FREEDOM FROM THE PASSION TO POSSESS.
Minimalism brings freedom from the all-consuming passion to possess. It steps off the tricks of consumerism and dares to seek happiness elsewhere. It values relationships, experiences, and soul-care.
MINIMALISM IS FREEDOM FROM MODERN MANIA.
Minimalism slows down life and frees us from this modern hysteria to live faster. It finds freedom to disengage. It seeks to keep only the essentials.
MINIMALISM IS COUNTER-CULTURAL.
While most people are chasing after success, glamour, and fame, minimalism calls out to us with a smaller, quieter, calmer voice. It invites us to slow down, consume less, but enjoy more.
III. Watch the segment ad talk about what you saw.
2. Why did he decide to change his life style?
3. How did he change it?
4. What does he usually say in his lectures?
5. Has he seen any changes in people regarding minimalism?
6. Would you like to be a minimalist? Why (not)?
7. Do you know anyone who lives by those principles, or at least most (some) of them?
MOVIE SEGMENT DOWNLOAD - MINIMALISM
