Introduction
There is a constant interplay of material appetite and fulfillment of the desire to derive happiness. Even though happiness is a state of being, not the state of doing, the perception of happiness could vary from one person to another, it could also have cultural connotations, and it could be a taste subject to age group.
The simplest definition of economic well-being is saving, the sophisticated notion of saving in crypto is staking. Saving is part of frugalism.
Responsible consumption and production(SDG 12) is one of the sustainable development goals that has garnered sufficient attention of late. This has become a hot topic since the 2008 recession, amplified after Covid-19.
Curated material possessions, simplest living, economic well-being, mindful consumption, production, etc are various dimensions of Minimalism.
I tried to find out the best definition of Minimalism over the internet in a minimalist way without making it complex for the readers. This also implies we need to be a minimalist in the literary sense as well.
So there should be literary simplicity in understanding minimalism which makes it straightforward.
Minimalism- The disciplined pursuit of the less and the more exists in the form of less.
The imperatives of minimalism are informed by the careful use of resources and advocate responsible/reduced consumption, but it's not about being poor. A minimalist could be rich in possession, such a possession could be simple and curated and who chose to live life in a simple way and on purpose.
Various faculties of Minimalism- Frugalism, Voluntary simplicity, sustainable consumption, etc.
Voluntary simplicity seeks to achieve self-sufficiency (e.g. ability to grow food for your consumption), doing away from impulsive purchases, work-life balance, self-development, reducing waste, etc.
Frugalism is something in which an individual derives happiness from saving.
Sustainable Consumption- Meeting the demands of the present generation without compromising the ability of the future.
Strands of Minimalism in Hive Blockchain/Leo community
Lifestyle is commonly discussed in any social media. So as Hive Blockchain/Leo community. Physical and emotional well-being are often discussed with different perspectives. It also includes economic well-being, at the least, being able to meet your own needs.
Learning via social media is increasingly becoming mainstream, particularly in this decade. And earning via social media is internalized by Blockchain-powered social media like Hive/Leo Community.
Attempts of transformation and self-sufficiency via DO-IT-YORSELF in the Hive Blockchain/Leo community is a minimalist process. Adaptation to a new lifestyle and informed consumption habits is a minimalist process.
Qualitative and Quantitive Benefits of Minimalism
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It removes the clutter of unnecessary complexities
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Change the perception of Happiness, or broaden the scope of happiness by changing the lifestyles
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Increasing awareness of consumption & Lifestyles
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Makes humans more ethical and eco-centric
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Saves money, greater awareness of sustainability
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Greater well-being and more quality time for family friends, etc.
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Less carbon footprint, and lower emissions because it changes the supply/demand paradigm.
Minimalism is restricted to an individual choice
The post-industrial world broadens the scope of individualism, as a result, society is highly moved by consumption habits, lavish lifestyles, etc in line with economic growth.
But the first quarter of the 21st century calls for a receding contour of productivity because consumerism is otherwise proving to be unsustainable. After all, it is highly anthropocentric.
Minimalism can correct consumerism but it is limited to a moral scale and limited as an individual choice, there is no mechanism available that can enforce minimalism as a collective effort of the society. So it's a kind of paradox in laissez-faire individualism.
My position on Minimalism
I am minimalist from the get-go. I was raised in a rural setup. My immediate environment created instincts and impulses right from childhood in a way that I always find myself close to Nature and Natural ecosystems.
I do not detest economic growth or modern civilization, rather I always try to smooth out the contour of growth and carbon footprint where natural processes are preserved and do not become a subject of Human exploitation way beyond the need.
And philosophically, I always tend to rest my contentment on-- Less is more.
Conclusion
Minimalism is desirable because it draws motivation in low-consumption lifestyles, however, it should not be construed as if it gives a call to the society to give up their aspirations.
Nonetheless, it is an individual choice and increasingly a moral obligation. So a top-down approach can not be adopted.
Minimalism should make an effort to arouse the masses to at least experiment with a minimalist lifestyle and see the corresponding change, if that is accepted by the society as a whole, it will eventually become a part of culture. In any case, it is a long-drawn process.
This is my participation for the Initiative: March Monthly Prompt
Check out the above post if you are keen to participate in a particular theme of the day.
Thank you.
Posted Using InLeo Alpha
