As America undergoes political and social changes in 2025, a new cultural shift has emerged– one that embraces minimalism and rejects the overconsumption that has congested previous years. In light of increased environmental instability, political uncertainty, and a growing dissatisfaction with social media’s priorities, there has been a wave of people seeking a more natural, simplistic lifestyle. Influencers who embody this lifestyle, such as Hannah Neelman of Ballerina Farm and Nara Smith, have gained popularity recently, which is reflective of a mass desire for quality over quantity. This shift signals a broad evaluation of modern lifestyles, particularly in response to crises and concerns about the future.

So far, in 2025, environmental instability has been at the forefront of people’s minds, prompting reflection on humanity’s impact on the planet. Issues of pollution and climate change have heightened awareness of the effects, particularly in light of natural disasters (Nature.com). The California Wildfires, for instance, are an extreme example of warning signs. In response to the LA fires, there were many initiatives to provide people with the basics: clean water, food, and shelter (Nature.com). In light of the scarcity of the essentials, many have reevaluated their level of consumption in everyday life, recognizing what is often taken for granted.

Beyond environmental concerns, many people’s inspiration to consume minimally comes from looking ahead at the future state of America under a new political administration. Under Donald Trump, environmental issues have not been prioritized to the extent of recent presidents, leaving many citizens wary of the long-term impacts of human-induced climate change (NC State). This unease has led to an increased sense of individual responsibility, inspiring many people to take up sustainable habits and limit their consumption to mitigate potential damage.

On a cultural level, social media has played a role in this movement. Many feel overwhelmed by the constant influx of content, particularly from creators known for excess and extravagance, such as MrBeast and Jake and Logan Paul. In contrast, figures like Hannah Neeleman of Ballerina Farm and Nara Smith have gained significant attention for emphasizing slow, intentional living (The Oracle). Neeleman, a mother of eight, showcases a wholesome farm lifestyle centered on natural cooking, simple routines, and traditional homemaking. Similarly, Smith captivates audiences with her intricate yet peaceful approach to cooking and baking (Ensemble Magazine). These women represent a growing appeal for content that prioritizes simplicity and mindfulness over spectacle and consumption.

The cultural landscape of 2025 reflects a shift, while slow and broad, toward minimalism. Environmental crises, political uncertainty, and social media saturation have all contributed to reevaluating habits, pushing people toward a lifestyle that prioritizes quality over quantity. Women like Hannah Neeleman and Nara Smith’s popularity exemplifies recent attraction towards a peaceful alternative to the chaotic, high-consumption culture that once dominated the internet. As people continue to seek meaning and stability, this shift toward simplicity may not just be a trend but a lasting transformation in the way society approaches consumption and daily life.