Is a minimalist life actually happier?

Owning less may reduce time spent organizing and choosing, or create inconvenience when something is needed again. Deciding what to keep around one's work, hobbies and household needs, rather than someone else's lifestyle, offers a starting point for assessing satisfaction. Relief right after clearing out and convenience that survives months later are not the same, so time is part of the measure. Sorting what is rarely used but hard to replace keeps reduction from becoming the goal.