Why I Embraced a Life of Minimalism as a British Bangladeshi
Heyyy everyone! Today, I want to talk about something that’s completely changed my life—minimalism. It’s a journey that’s deeply personal, a little unconventional (especially coming from a British-Bangladeshi background), and honestly, one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
If you’re wondering how I went from drowning in clutter to owning just what I need, keep reading—there’s a good chance my story will resonate with you.
Growing Up in a Bengali Household in London
So, a bit about me—I grew up in London in a traditional Bengali household. If you’ve ever been in a Bengali home, you’ll know that our homes are full of life, laughter, and stuff. Lots and lots of stuff.
In our culture, possessions often symbolize success. The more you have, the better you’re doing in life.
- A living room with multiple sofas and elaborate decorations? Successful.
- A cupboard stuffed with saris for every occasion? Wealthy.
- A freezer overflowing with samosas and frozen? You’re winning at life.
Our homes reflected abundance, and for good reason. My parents, like many immigrant families, worked incredibly hard to build a life here. Their possessions were a badge of honor, a way to show they’d made it despite the odds.
But as I got older, I began to feel like the physical clutter around me was mirrored in my mental and emotional state. It wasn’t just the stuff—it was the pressure to hold onto everything, whether it was useful or not.
The Turning Point
For years, I didn’t question it. I thought, This is just how things are. But as I approached my late 30s, I started to feel uneasy.
I’d go shopping for things I didn’t need, only to feel guilty afterward. I held onto sentimental items—like old birthday cards or clothes I never wore—because I thought letting them go was somehow disrespectful. And don’t even get me started on the infamous plastic bag drawer.
Then one day, I had a lightbulb moment—or maybe it was more like a slow burn realization.
I was on an international bridal booking, and I had to pack carefully for the trip. My makeup kit was already pretty minimal, but for this trip, I decided to go even lighter. I only brought what I absolutely needed. And guess what? It felt incredible.
On the plane ride, I remember thinking, I could live like this—owning only what I need. It was like a mental weight had lifted. And that’s when I decided to completely rethink my life.
Decluttering: The First Step
When I got back home, I started decluttering. At first, it was a little overwhelming—let’s be honest, no one wants to tackle the chaotic drawer full of random chargers and pens that don’t work. But with every item I let go of, I felt lighter.
I found old outfits I hadn’t worn since my 20s, takeaway containers I’d kept “just in case,” and enough random cables to start a tech museum. It was both hilarious and eye-opening.
The process wasn’t just about getting rid of things—it was about questioning why I’d held onto them in the first place. Did I really need five dupattas in the same shade of pink? Was I ever going to use that old, bulky blender at the back of the cupboard?
What Minimalism Taught Me
Minimalism isn’t a destination—it’s a journey. And for me, it’s not about deprivation; it’s about intention. It’s about keeping what truly adds value to your life and letting go of the rest.
Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:
- Memories Don’t Live in Things
Letting go of sentimental items doesn’t mean you’re letting go of the memories attached to them. I’ve learned that memories live in my heart and my mind, not in old birthday cards or clothes I’ll never wear. - Redefining Success
Growing up, success meant having more—more clothes, more furniture, more stuff. Now, success to me means having more time and energy for the things that truly matter: spending time with family, traveling, and enjoying life’s little moments. - Life Becomes Simpler and Happier
Cleaning and organizing is so much easier when you have less stuff. Everything in my home now has a designated place, and I no longer feel overwhelmed by clutter. It’s like my mind and my home are finally in sync.
Practical Tips to Get Started
If you’re sitting there thinking, I could never be a minimalist, trust me—I used to think the same. But you don’t have to go extreme to experience the benefits.
Here’s where you can start:
- Clear One Drawer: You know the one—the drawer full of random batteries, expired coupons, and chargers for devices you don’t even own anymore. Start there.
- Donate, Don’t Dump: If you’re letting go of clothes, furniture, or other items in good condition, donate them to a local charity. It feels good knowing your things can help someone else.
- Set a Rule: Before buying anything new, ask yourself: Do I really need this? Or will it just end up as clutter?
Why Minimalism is Worth It
Minimalism has taught me that less really is more. By owning fewer things, I’ve gained so much—more time, more mental clarity, and more freedom to focus on what truly matters.
As a British-Bangladeshi woman, this journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Letting go of cultural expectations and deeply ingrained habits wasn’t easy. But it’s been so worth it.
Minimalism isn’t about having less—it’s about making room for more of what you love.
Your Turn
So, that’s my story. If this resonates with you—or if you just want to laugh about how many takeaway containers you own—leave a comment below! And if you’re curious about minimalism, start small and see where it takes you.
Remember, it’s not about perfection. It’s about progress.
Thanks for reading, and until next time—keep it simple and keep it real. 😊