Minimalism in the Netherlands: A Step-by-Step Guide for 31-40 Year Olds to Simplify Your Life

Feeling overwhelmed by clutter, endless choices, and social pressure? Minimalism isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifestyle shift that can help you gain clarity, reduce stress, and find greater satisfaction in daily life. In the Netherlands, where urban living and busy lifestyles often add to the stress, people aged 31-40 are increasingly embracing minimalism to focus on what truly matters.

This comprehensive, actionable guide will show you exactly how to start and sustain a minimalist lifestyle tailored for the Dutch context. Whether you want to declutter your home, simplify your schedule, or align your spending with your values, this step-by-step strategy is for you.

What is Minimalism? (And Why Does It Matter in the Netherlands?)

Minimalism is about intentionally living with less—both physically and mentally—and focusing energy on things that add true value. In the Netherlands, with its love of gezelligheid (coziness) and efficient, design-focused culture, minimalism can help adults in their thirties re-center their lives.

Reduces stress from clutter and decision fatigue
Frees up time for friends, family, and hobbies
Improves financial health by cutting unnecessary expenses
Supports a sustainable lifestyle (less waste, more conscious consumption)

Step 1: Develop a Minimalist Mindset

The first step is shifting your approach from “more is better” to “enough is plenty.” Ask yourself: What truly matters to me at this stage of my life?

Define your why: Do you want less stress? More freedom? Improved wellbeing?
Identify triggers: What causes clutter or overwhelm in your daily routines?
Visualize your ideal lifestyle: Imagine your home, calendar, and finances simplified.

Revisit these motivators regularly, especially when you face resistance or doubt.

Helpful Resources

Step 2: Declutter Your Physical Space

Clutter is the most visible burden. The Dutch “clean lines” home aesthetic is easy to maintain with less stuff. Start one area at a time:

Kitchen: Remove duplicate utensils, expired foods, gadgets you rarely use.
Wardrobe: Keep only clothes you wear regularly. Donate or sell the rest.
Living Room: Clear surfaces, minimize décor to favorites, store items out of sight.
Office: File or scan papers, purge unused tech and cables.

Pro tip: Try the Minimalism Game—remove one item on day one, two items on day two, and so on for a month.

Where to Donate or Sell in the Netherlands

Kringloopwinkels (thrift shops) for furniture, clothes, books
Marktplaats.nl for second-hand sales
Local charities and recycling centers

Step 3: Simplify Your Digital Life

Digital clutter is just as exhausting as physical clutter.

Unsubscribe: Remove yourself from old newsletters and marketing lists.
Organize files: Create simple, clear folder structures on your devices.
Delete unused apps: Only keep those you use weekly.
Limit screen time: Try app timers or digital wellbeing features.
Digital declutter tips (adapted for the Dutch lifestyle)

Step 4: Streamline Your Schedule

Being “busy” isn’t always productive. Pare down your commitments to create time for what recharges you.

Audit your week: List all work, family, social, and leisure activities.
Identify non-essentials: Politely say no to obligations that drain you.
Prioritize rest and hobbies (cycling, reading, cooking—the Dutch way!)
Consider a “slow morning” routine to lower stress.
See our morning routine productivity guide

Step 5: Mindful Consumption & Financial Minimalism

Minimalism in spending builds financial resilience, helps the environment, and supports your goals.

Pause before purchases: Wait 48 hours before buying non-essentials.
Spend on experiences (not things)—like a walk in a Dutch park or city café.
Automate savings: Reduce mental clutter around money.
Simple budgeting tips for young adults
Nibud (Dutch National Institute for Family Finance Information)

Step 6: Build Sustainable Minimalist Habits

Minimalism isn’t a one-off—it’s a lifestyle. Create rituals and gently adjust habits for the long term:

Weekly “reset” time to tidy and reflect.
Set phone-free hours or rooms at home.
Choose one-in, one-out: Donate or recycle when you buy something new.
Schedule monthly reviews of spending, commitments, and goals.
Try positive habit formation tips

Common Mistakes to Avoid on Your Minimalism Journey

Going too fast: Pace yourself to avoid burnout or regretful decisions.
Comparing to others: Your minimalism is unique—avoid Instagram-perfect standards.
Decluttering without purpose: Declutter for you, not just to create empty spaces.
Throwing away responsibly: Always recycle, donate, or sell instead of dumping items.

Real-Life Examples from the Netherlands

Many adults in their 30s are blending Dutch pragmatism with modern minimalism. For instance:

Rutger, 35, Rotterdam: Swapped two wardrobes for a capsule closet—now rotates 30 timeless pieces.
Sanne, 32, Utrecht: Transformed her small apartment by donating 70% of kitchen gadgets and became happier with less cleaning.
Marcel, 38, Amsterdam: Cut down on digital subscriptions, freeing both time and money for family outings.

Summary and Actionable Takeaways

Define your version of minimalism—adapt it to your Dutch lifestyle and needs.
Declutter gradually: Start small—every step counts.
Cut digital and schedule overload: Prioritize what matters.
Be mindful of your finances and consumption habits.
Create sustainable habits—addition by subtraction brings more joy and more time.

Conclusion

Embracing minimalism in the Netherlands as a 31-40-year-old is more than tidying up your home; it’s about designing a life that lines up with your values, health, and sense of freedom. Take your first step today—your future self will thank you for it!