NAVIGATION
There is no set path that defines a minimalist work life. Having a simple job is more about the mindset that you put into your work life. So, what jobs do minimalists have? Flexible ones with a workplace that is respectful of their boundaries.
The important part of working like a minimalist is learning how to separate your work from your identity. Instead of thinking of myself as a blogger, I prefer to think of myself as someone who is passionate about writing.

Hi, I’m Ryan
The perfect job doesn’t just happen, it is built. There are some jobs that lend themselves to lower stress, greater flexibility, and a healthier balance of work and life. It can be difficult to find the right place, but realize you’re going to have to mold the position into something you want and that is a challenge.
Work should not be an all-consuming part of your life, but rather, a means to pursuing a larger goal. Many minimalists choose to work part-time or freelance so they have the freedom to enjoy their personal time however they want.
What Jobs Do Minimalists Have?
A minimalist will carefully craft these roles into something that lets them do meaningful work, on their own schedule, from a location of their choosing, and in a manner that works for them. Doing so is difficult, but with enough time and attention, you can shape almost any job into a minimalist job!

Minimalist Jobs List
I’ve compiled a few lists of jobs that, if developed, can have a high level of autonomy on a more flexible schedule, and some may even be done remotely. But like with any job, you can build a career that is full of stress and long hours if you’re not mindful.
People Who Like Art
- Graphic Designer
- Freelance Photographer
- Video Editor
- Tattoo Artist
- Freelance Illustrator
- Video Game Animator
People Who Like To Help
- Online Counselor/Therapist
- Telemedicine RN
- Hospice Care Aide
- Behavioral Tech
- Mental Health Tech
- Clinical Support Aide
People Who Like Nature
- Adventure Guide
- Park Ranger
- Arborist
- Farmer
- Lifeguard
- Landscaper
People Who Like To Teach
- ESL Teacher
- Tutor
- Speech-Language Pathologist
- Parenting Consultant
- Occupational Therapist
- Driving Instructor
People Who Like Animals
- Dog Walker
- Pet Sitter
- Zookeeper
- Wildlife Biologist
- Animal Breeder
- Conservation Officer
People Who Like Connecting
- YouTuber
- Freelance Translator
- Podcaster
- Voice-over Artist
- Interpreter
- Reporter
People Who Like People
- Customer Service
- Personal Stylist
- HR Manager
- Ride Share Driver
- Sales Consultant
- Social Media Manager
People Who Like To Critique
- Music Reviewer
- Movie Critic
- Website/App Tester
- Food Critic
- Book Reviewer
- Image Consultant
People Who Like Tech
- App Developer
- Software Engineer
- Tech Support
- IT Manager
- Database Admin
- Computer Programmer
People Who Like To Write
- Blogger
- Transcriptionist
- Freelance Journalist
- Travel Writer
- Novelist
- Medical Writer
The Minimalist Mindset At Work
Minimalists approach work in a unique and mindful way. I’ve found that approaching your logistical work tasks purposefully and maintaining a clutter-free workspace are both excellent steps towards having a simple work life.
At the end of the day, there are a lot of variations in how minimalism can be a part of your job. We are all different, but adopting a few key habits can help you create the life you want.
- Know Your Goals: work should be a way of pursuing your greater purpose
- Change Your Behavior: build habits around the kind of life you want to lead
- Always Be Intentional: make purposeful life choices at your job and at home
Getting started is the hardest part of any lifestyle change. Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks for making your job one that is compatible with a minimalist lifestyle.
Question Everything
Before I was a blogger, I worked in HR. Once after starting a new position, I noticed that there were several outdated habits that were taking up a lot of time. After cutting out unnecessary busywork, I found the job to be much less stressful.
Stay Mindful
Routine can be stagnating, but if you use it properly, it can serve as a mindfulness tool. I know that I want my morning experience to be peaceful, so my routine includes a good night’s sleep and waking up early for exercise and meditation.
Include Variety
Having a colorful and interesting work life is important to me, so I have several different jobs I focus on. I write for The Tiny Life, but I also consult on the side. This way, I am never bored working on just one project.
Minimalist Career Advice
The first step in achieving your goals is identifying them. I follow a planning strategy called Level 10 Life. This helps me to identify what areas of my life are fulfilling and what areas need my attention.
Simplify Yourself
It is important to redefine your idea of success. Money is not a metric that minimalists typically use to measure their achievements, so take an introspective minute to find a goal that resonates with you on a deeper level.
Simplify Your Work Life
Leave work at work. Work/life balance is key, and it is important to have an employer who respects your time. When interviewing for a new job, I like to set up a brief conversation with the people I’ll be working with to get an honest feel for how a company treats their employees.
Simplify Your Finances
Minimalist jobs are often part-time or freelance, so setting up your own retirement plan and healthcare is a must. Luckily, the minimalist lifestyle can afford you financial freedom by reducing consumerist habits. My step one was to budget my expenses and eliminate debt, which allowed me more wiggle room when it came to financial planning.
Your Turn!
- In what areas of your life are you not feeling fulfilled?
- How do you want to incorporate minimalism into your work life?
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