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Two concepts which are frequently brought up in conjunction with each other are minimalism and decluttering. Maybe you are in search of minimalist decluttering tips or a minimalist decluttering checklist. Or maybe you want to know how to declutter and live minimally.

But how connected are these concepts really? Are they interchangeable? Is a decluttered life a minimalist life? Is a minimalist life one which is free of clutter?

The main difference between minimalism and decluttering is that one is a mindset and a lifestyle, while the other is an action. Decluttering can be part of a minimalist lifestyle, but embracing minimalism goes beyond simply removing clutter from your home.

Likewise, I would argue that you can still be a minimalist and have some clutter. To a large degree, keeping your home and life clutter-free is a matter of dedication and commitment, but it is also a matter of time, energy, and resources.

Definitions of minimalism can vary quite a bit, but perhaps the simplest is this one from dictionary.com:

“Being or offering no more than what is required or essential.”

This definition is broad enough that it can be applied to everything from artwork to architecture to home décor and organization.

I also like this definition because it is extremely subjective, and puts an emphasis on function. What is required or essential for one person may be very different from what is required or essential for another.

That means that one person’s minimalism may actually look significantly different from another person’s. There are no one-size-fits-all rules; minimalism is actually a lifestyle which can be adapted to fit your needs.

Decluttering is a part of minimalism because it is the act of removing that which is not essential or required from your life. Whether you can call yourself a “minimalist” while decluttering however largely comes down to your motives.

Are you clearing away clutter because you feel like your home is “messy?” Because you are trying to turn a corner? Because you are overwhelmed by how much stuff is around you?

All of these motives may lead you to minimalism, but they are not minimalist on their own. A minimalist declutters because he or she finds beauty and comfort is that which is essential, freed of the dross of that which is not.

There is really no “right” or “wrong” approach when it comes to minimalism, decluttering, and organization. Minimalism is a major trend right now, but minimalism after decluttering isn’t something you should feel compelled toward. It is perfectly okay to clear up some clutter and just move on with your life.

Likewise, you can be a minimalist and still have more “stuff” than someone else who calls himself or herself a minimalist. The difference is that you really value that “stuff,” and it plays an essential, functional role in your life. You might have some real clutter too—busy professionals cannot always drop everything to declutter every day, even if they wish they could!

Now you know a little bit more about the difference between minimalism and decluttering. While these are related concepts, you can have one without the other. There is no single “best” way to organize your home and life. Just choose what works for you.