Minimalism is on the rise as one of the biggest lifestyle trends for many reasons. One of which is an effect of another leading lifestyle trend, sustainability. Consumers are accepting eco-friendly ways to be conscious of what they buy, and investing more in products that will last instead of single-use plastics.

The majority of minimalist movement drivers are from the younger generations, Millennials and Gen Z. Not to say that Millennials and Gen Z don't like stuff because they do. If you have scrolled through reels on TikTok lately, young people are particularly crazy for fashion and putting together trendy looks. Although, they are looking for a more sustainable way to participate in fashion.

Older generations were accustomed to different social norms, both related to things as a sign of wealth and also a scarcity mindset around needing things and not wanting to waste.

These are valid norms that came from a different time, but the younger generation has different priorities around what fills them with joy and also their associations with basic needs. One of the main reasons that Millennials are taking on minimalism is surrounded by their relationship with consumerism.

To Be Smart Consumers

Because sustainability is trending in all aspects of fashion, lifestyle and consumerism, it is driving the shopper's habits.

More and more Millennials are investing in staple pieces and constructing capsule closets to combat fast fashion culture.  To be a smart shopper, it is important to think about the price per wear or use. Evaluate if it is a good value, not necessarily the total cost but the cost of use.

It isn't just fashion, beauty products, home appliances and gadgets that are being consumed for the purpose of using, and not for having. Also Millennials are the first generation born into the age of technology which is spreading the virtual universe and lifting possessions into the cloud.

Environmental reasons are pushing their opinion about consumerism and material objects. There is a push to consume less single-use plastics, and even production giants like Amazon and Target are beginning to comply with providing different shipping and packaging options. This is an effect of the market, and Millennials are the ones driving it away from overconsumption.

Aside from being conscious and intentional shoppers, it is a fact that the aesthetic is something that motivates and intrigues young people about minimalism.

Related: How To Shop More Sustainably

For The Aesthetic

When it comes to home aesthetics, Millennials are not the investors of minimalism but their preference leans hard into the trend compared to previous generations. Young people are less concerned with collecting than previous generations.

Especially considering that many young people work at home, they don't want to feel suffocated by their belongings. a study found that 88 percent of Millennials prefer to live in the city even if that means paying a higher rent, meaning smaller living spaces.

If you live in an apartment, it is harder to have stuff because you need to be strategic about organizing your home to optimize the space. Apartment dwellers are more likely to opt for a minimalist aesthetic to make use of their space and feel light moving through it.

Size of your home aside, the younger people who are choosing to live in the cities are choosing a way of life that is more connected and utilizes community resources which slows down consumption, supporting a minimalist economy.

From being smart consumers to the effects of their preferred lifestyle, Millennials and Gen Z are choosing minimalism for its convenience factor.

Related: 10 Ways To Make Your House More Minimalist

For The Convenience

For Millennials and Gen Z, mobility is the new stability. They like to be able to pack up and go when the moment comes, which is hard to do with a house full of stuff. For young people, having fewer things allows them to feel free to take opportunity, and be mobile from going to work in a coffee shop to buying a last-minute ticket to Bali.

Young people are also entering their careers and the workplace with more student debt, which is causing generational pushback such as settling down, turning down dream jobs and getting married. This causes them to evaluate their relationship with objects, in the face of debt culture.

In the same way that Millennials are evaluating their relationship with material objects and pushing for a minimalist economy, part of the reason behind it is the generational feeling of buying experience and not possessions. Millennials want time and experience to see the world, take job opportunities, try new things and they are more conscious of these desires than previous generations.

All points lead to minimalist lifestyle choices from the economic, lifestyle and consumer preferences of Millennials. The generation has spoken and they are taking on the minimalist economy.

Next: Change Your Mindset Around Material Items

How To Workout With Ankle Weights & What Not To Do
How To Workout With Ankle Weights & What Not To Do
About The Author