★ Upping the Ante on My Yearlong Shopping Ban

"When I made the decision to embrace a minimalist lifestyle, my goal was simply to pare down my belongings, until every item in my home had a purpose. After completing my final declutter this past weekend, I can now say that I’ve accomplished that – and I’m left with just 40% of what I once owned. This + the shopping ban have proved that life is better with less. By removing all the external conflicts from my home and my mind, I have more time to give to family, friends and myself, and to do the things I love. I also have a lot more money in the bank, which is just an incredible bonus."