Minimalism isn’t about getting rid of the things that are precious to you. It’s about getting rid of everything else. In fact, it doesn’t even have to be about physical stuff. Minimalism is about focusing on the things that matter and removing the things that don’t.

Due to the supersonic evolution of technology and growth of minimalist communities, there’s never been a better time.

Here are 3 reasons why it’s the best year to cut the clutter.

Technology

For the first time ever, movie and game lovers can have collections without the endless disks, bookworms can consume infinite knowledge without dusty libraries, and even social media fanatics can consume without large computers.

The smartphone moves so many objects to your pocket. It replaces a GPS, large computer, camera, 50 pounds of encyclopedias, daily newspaper, ATM, notebook, flashlight, MP3 player, voice recorder, television (somewhat), and now even debit cards.

Smart TVs and video game consoles make it possible to have entire collections of discs available at the click of a button.

Technology allows us to store an unreal number of things in one place.

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There’s something that’s infinitely important, though. Technology can consume us even more than our old physical possessions. The “smartphone” epidemic is real.

Minimalism isn’t about removing physical things; it’s about removing all things that distract from what really matters. A destructive social media addiction should be cut just as quickly as those boxes of old magazines.

Removal

eBay, Facebook online “yard sales,” and Craigslist have made becoming a minimalist a financial opportunity. You have so much stuff people will buy if you just put it out there. Not everything has to go to the dump.

Past minimalist gurus didn’t have it so lucky. A house full of meaningless objects was much more difficult to empty than it is today. Start listing items online as you begin your journey to peace. You’d be surprised how much others will buy.

Community

Minimalism is picking up. Consumerism has reached such an all time high and people are seriously starting to reconsider their importances. Minimalists are appearing constantly and you’re certainly not the first of your circle.

Explore minimalist Facebook groups, forums, and actual friend circles. Minimalism isn’t easy for the untrained and having a group to support you as you let go of the clutter will make it not just easier, but fun.

Above all, remember that minimalism isn’t about throwing away everything you love. It’s not about being a perfectionist or a cold boring stone who has no wall decorations. It’s about focusing on what really matters.

As famous minimalist Ryan Nicodemus said, “Some people come to me and say ‘Oh, but my books, I love my books. I get to read them and share them with my friends. They’re such a delight.’ Um, listen. If your books are really that important, then keep your books. Minimalism isn’t about getting rid of what’s important to you. It’s about making room in your life so you can finally focus on what’s important to you.”