Modern American society is materialistic. People are frequently judged not only by the things they own, but by their ability to buy more things. Simply put, we as a society like stuff.

Unfortunately, that’s not always healthy. TV and other media are full of stories of homes that are so full of material possessions that they are practically uninhabitable. Most people aren’t this far gone but could certainly stand to live with less than what they think they need. A challenging economy has led people to compromise over what they should and shouldn’t own, and many younger Americans are now living minimalist lifestyles.

Maybe you don’t need to get rid of all of your possessions and live in a tiny studio apartment, but you would probably enjoy a little less clutter. Here are some tips to help you live with less.

Get Rid of Your Desktop Computer

Computers have developed from their roots as a tool for programmers, accountants, writers and gamers to all-purpose media centers. People watch their favorite TV shows, read the news and chat with family and friends from computers. Technology has advanced to the point that even the most powerful devices come in book-sized, portable laptops. If you have a decent laptop, you don’t need anything else. If you have a desktop PC, consider trading it in for a laptop. You’ll save space and you might even find that you can use the laptop to replace your TV as well.

Use Minimal Furniture

You would be surprised at how little furniture you need if you live alone in a small apartment. Many people who live in studio apartments get by with a special unit that doubles as a window seat and a bed. All it takes is a roll-up mattress and some bedding. Add some compartments for storage and it could be all the furniture you need. Floor cushions also make for great places to sit if you have company. When it comes to furniture, plan large purchases around practical, daily demands, and find cheap, easy-to-store solutions for special occasions, like when family visits or friends come over.

Keep Minimal Clothing and Linens

When it comes to clothes, all you really need are seven versatile outfits, a hooded coat and some gloves. Keep a pair of sneakers, a pair of dress shoes and a pair of boots to make sure you have appropriate footwear for any occasion.

Your bathroom linen should consist of a few towels, a couple of washcloths and two kitchen towels. Consider keeping just enough linen so that you store as few pieces as possible. Have one set of sheets for your bed and one towel for your use, plus one or two guest towels. This will not only save space, it will force you to develop good laundry habits as well: you’ll have to wash your towel and hang it back up the moment it’s dirty instead of letting it sit around in a hamper while you use a spare one.

These are just a few tips that can help you enjoy a more minimalist lifestyle. If you’re still not convinced that you should live with less, consider the benefits that this lifestyle provides. Living with fewer possessions is less stressful, makes a home easier to clean and makes packing for moves much easier. Above all else, it will teach you to appreciate the things that you have and help you understand that it is entirely possible to live without giving into society’s materialism.

This article was contributed by Mike Gordon, recent college grad, tech nerd, and minimalist in the making. If you’re looking to de-clutter your life but aren’t quite ready to part with your possessions for good, Mike suggests to go and find self storage near your place of residence.