MINIMALISM: A FAMILY GUIDE

This relevant and timely book takes as its theme: “Doing more with less with those that matter” – which should be the guiding principle for all of us at a time when the pandemic has triggered increasing awareness that our highly consumerist lifestyle is posing an existential threat to our planet. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented health and economic crisis across the world.  Millions have been afflicted by death, serious disease, mental illness as well as loss of business and livelihood.  As with all crises, the current pandemic is also generating opportunities.  It is bringing forward and accelerating technological change.  Fresh impetus is being given to addressing global challenges such as climate change and rising inequality.

Dr. Amila de Alwis – Author

There is a global preoccupation not just about building back but also about the ways and means of building back better. At this historic time, Amila de Alwis’ book “Minimalism – a Family Guide” is both extremely relevant and timely.  The overarching theme of “doing more with less with those that matter” should be the guiding principle for all of us at a time when the pandemic has triggered increasing awareness that our highly consumerist lifestyle is posing an existential threat to our planet. 

Amila makes his case in a clear, concise, and reader-friendly manner.  He begins by defining the concept of minimalism: both physical and mental.  He then goes on to set parameters for planning and starting, for the individual, his family, and their immediate circle.  This is followed by the introduction of very practical templates for pursuing both physical (materialistic) and mental minimalism.  The author ends by setting out the benefits of minimalism.  The pandemic has served to reinforce his key messages.

This is a book written with sincerity of purpose and deserves the careful consideration of all of us.  

Dr. Indrajit Coomaraswamy

Economist

Former Governor – Central Bank of Sri Lanka

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