Even if you’re not a self-declared minimalist, taking some advice from their simple life playbook can help streamline your life in a multitude of ways. One example? Adopting the Minimalists’ 30/30 rule, which not only keeps your home clutter-free but also helps you stick to a budget even when the temptation to buy something is remarkably strong. Ahead, we’re detailing what the minimalists’ 30/30 rule is and explaining why it’s something everyone should weave into their life.  

What is the Minimalists’ 30/30 Rule?

The 30/30 rule, which was created by The Minimalists – requires you to wait a total of 30 hours before making a purchase on anything over $30. The rule also extends to items priced over $100, urging you to press pause for an entire 30 days before committing to buy.  

This includes online and in store shopping. In that sense, it’s sort of like a personal shopping time out – a deliberate decision to step back and make sure that shiny new item truly deserves a spot in your home.

“We’ve all been there: You see something fabulous, and suddenly you ‘need’ it, but the 30/30 rule is your little reminder to slow down and think before splurging” says professional organizer Lisa Adams. “Do you really need it? Will you wear it? Does it fit seamlessly with the pieces you already love? Following this rule helps avoid buyer’s remorse.”

The rule applies to decorations, clothing, toys, cosmetics, and really anything “extra” that’s not considered essential. Your basic groceries, cleaning supplies, and other must-have items aren’t part of the rule, but if we’re being honest some of those things might end up in a gray area.  

Benefits of Following the 30/30 Rule

The 30/30 rule has a ton of benefits. Here’s why adopting it can benefit your life, wallet, and home. (Might we challenge you to at least give it a trial run for a good 30 days!)

You’ll Have Less Clutter

We’re a very consumer-driven culture, with ads on TVs, billboards, and even in our scroll. The more we buy, the more cluttered our lives become.

Your Home Will Feel Intentionally Curated

Even maximalists will tell you that their aesthetic is not about acquiring stuff. It’s about making intentional choices about what you want to showcase in your home.  

You’ll Say Yes to Things That Matter

In that same line of thinking, the 30/30 rule is “less about saying no to things and more about saying yes to the right things,” Adams says. “More intentional choices mean a space that truly works for you.”

It Curbs Impulse Purchases  

How many times have you purchased an item only to get a case of buyers’ remorse? And how many times have you purchased something and never actually used or enjoyed it? Those are all impulse purchases. The 30/30 rules says “Whoa, Nelly! Do you really need this?” and gives you time to think about your purchase.

It Saves Money

The fewer impulse purchases, the less you’re spending. You might be surprised to see how much you save by adopting this rule. And fun fact: $10,000 is equal to spending just $27 a day for a year.  

It’s an Exercise in Self-control

It feels good to set goals and make decisions that serve us. The 30/30 rule asks us to challenge ourselves by saying no to immediate gratification and to savor the things that truly matter.

Other Factors to Consider About the 30/30 Rule

There are, of course, some exceptions to the rule. You’ve got to purchase essentials like groceries and cleaning supplies, and in some cases you may find yourself in a “now or never” predicament.

“There are always going to be those limited-edition pieces that may not hang around for long – so if it’s a ‘buy it now or never’ situation, sometimes it’s worth making the exception,” Adams says. “The key here is knowing when it’s an impulse and when it’s an investment.”

Generally, though, the bulk of purchases aren’t required spending, and we will probably fare just as well without the item – perhaps even better – than with the item in our possession. Practice, patience, give yourself time to think about your purchases, and see how it affects your home, budget, and pride in yourself.

“I would rather own a little and see the world, than own the world and see a little.” – Alexander Sattler

“Wanting less is a far better blessing than having more.” – Mary Ellen Edmunds

© Wendy Rose Gould . All Rights Reserved.