How to Live Happily With an Extreme Minimalist

1. Think twice about your gifts

We all enjoy making our loved ones happy by giving them gifts on occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, and other occasions.

We often choose mindlessly without thinking too carefully about how much that gift will be appreciated and used.

This is where minimalism and extreme minimalism can be extra challenging. An extreme minimalist would prefer not to get anything at all than to get something useless.

When gifting, an extreme minimalist considers things like functionality, durability, and personal meaning. For example, for my partner’s recent birthday, I gifted him a nice silver chain necklace.

He had told me several times that his old chain necklace had broken and he needed a new one to wear the pendant I had given him for another occasion. I knew a high-quality necklace would provide durability and functionality, and would have emotional value.

2. Consider sharing things

My partner and I share many clothing items like t-shirts. We also share almost all of the same skincare products.

Having more than one person in a household using products is always better. You spend less, choose more mindfully, and avoid wasting money experimenting and finding out what you like and don’t like.

It causes you to take more responsibility for your choices which is a huge benefit of living with an extreme minimalist.

3. Respect their choices

People tend to be less respectful of things they don’t understand. Many people do not see minimalism and extreme minimalism especially, as a realistic way of living. They might think it’s just a trend.

Consumerism is so much a part of our modern culture that the very idea of minimalism can sound almost threatening to some.

Even if you don’t understand minimalism, or choose it for yourself, remember to be respectful of choices that are meaningful to your loved ones.

4. Don’t force them to buy something you think they need

It can be tempting to impose our ideas of needs on our loved ones. I often catch myself recommending that my husband buy certain clothing items or self-care products. I think in terms of my own needs, but I have to remember that he is his own person with his own needs.

In relationships, we sometimes forget our individuality, but just because we’re in a relationship with someone it does not mean they are just like us. They might not like or need the same things as we do.

To avoid this mistake, ask questions. Ask for your loved ones' opinions instead of making assumptions. Respect their needs by listening to their answers. Surprises don’t usually work well for minimalists as they think very carefully about everything they own.

5. Make sure you can manage your own things

Getting your loved one to help you manage your possessions is nice but ultimately it is your responsibility. I make sure I can manage and organize my possessions including everything that I use and everything that he doesn’t use.

My husband has chosen to live an extremely minimalistic lifestyle so I make sure not to clutter his space or luggage with my things.

Extreme minimalist

What are your thoughts on extreme minimalism? Do you have anyone in your family or friend circle practicing this extreme lifestyle?

If you do, what insights do you have on extreme minimalist living, and how do you manage your relationship? Are you an extreme minimalist living with someone who does not practice minimalism?

Let’s discuss this in the comments.

Next, learn How to Hobby Without Clutter.