Minimalism I Minimalists are rich
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- Опубликовано: 15 сен 2024
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Minimalism - minimalists are rich. I get a surprising amount of comments suggesting that I'm rich and that you need to be rich to be a minimalist. In this video I share my two cents on this statement.
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#minimalism #scandinavian #lifestyle
I still have a Coach bag I bought in the '80's. I've had it longer than my husband (met in the '90's) both are still quality pieces...lol.
Great combo, your husband and the bag!🙌🏻
I love vintage coach. Nothing compares.
Your comment is so freaking cute, made me smile!
🤣
How have u been maintaining it.. any secret.
I heard this saying the other day, "buy items your heirs will be fighting for when you're gone." This stuck in my head and now I choose quality & vintage pieces that will stand the test of time.
The sense of space and actual free, or uncluttered, space is . . . priceless.
I cold not agree more!
I have the best, i do my best, i deserve the best and that make me look rich as the idea of been rich is live well!
Thank you so much!
Yessss! Love your mindset
Qué sorpresa verte aquí 💚
I appreciate the points you're making in this, however, I do think there is something worth considering on both sides of this.
Your main point about spending more to get quality makes sense, but it's actually a major issue that low-income/poor people face; being poor can be MORE expensive. A person with less money is going to have to buy for "now", as often they don't even have enough to plan and save (especially when it comes to necessities like food). Conversely, someone with more means can plan and save, as they already earn enough to meet their basic needs and have some leftover for the future.
I do see where this idea of "Minimalists are rich" comes from. As a person that follows many minimalism channels (yours included), I find many that live in upscale apartments in some big cities. LA, NYC, London, etc. These are definitely not affordable places to live for most people, but I feel like often this issue is not really acknowledged.
Having said all of that, I do think even low-income people can learn and benefit from minimalism. Minimalism is the antidote to a capitalist world that so often makes people feel like they have to spend to be valid, to feel fulfilled, or to live a happy life. Minimalism teaches thoughtful spending and consumption, and I think people that fall into this trap of chasing the next thing (as I did) can benefit from curbing the spending habits that have been coaxed into them.
A good video though, I appreciate you opening up to us like this and showing so much of your personal life and story! I just wanted to give you some feedback that I think may have been missed.
Thank you for this comment!
Agreed. It takes a certain base-level income to be able to save up and afford the quality stuff. There's a lot to learn from Minimalist ideals, but there's also a huge question of wealth and opportunity.
@@chrismforsyth7080 but do you have to buy nice things to be a minimalist? Owning and buying less (to be more minimal) does not require more money...
@@danielle4033 Certainly not, no. But it sure helps to invest in quality items so you don't have to replace them. I love the ideals of Minimalism, but it has an image issue when it's seen as a style associated with sparsely furnished homes and hundred-dollar chairs, rather than an anti-Capitalist/sustainability movement. If there wasn't an image issue, Benita wouldn't be making a video about whether or not she's rich.
@@chrismforsyth7080 I dont disagree with the image that is displayed by many people online. That can be said about alot of things on social media. They are usually unrealistic for the average person. The message should not be in appearance but more in function/purpose. Which is again not stressed as much when people are trying to portray a certain image online.
I would summerise this video in: "Don't spend. Invest." Great interesting point of view!
Greetings from Argentina!
When you are minimalist and broke, the attitude changes from “having just one high quality object that you love for every purpose” to “keeping the object you have even if you hate it because you already have it and it gets the job done.” Broke minimalism still has the effect of making life more enjoyable. It forces you to appreciate things that you don’t find ideal. If you only have one corkscrew and it’s terrible (but functional) you certainly appreciate that corkscrew when you bring home a bottle of wine. Plus the carbon footprint is so much smaller! So keep that ikea rug and maybe you will grow to love it! I have the same one in sage and have always enjoyed it. It was the first rug in my first apartment so it will always be special to me, even if it’s not the highest quality. It’s much more enjoyable with one of those mats that goes underneath for some extra cushion
"broke minimalism still has the effect of making life more enjoyable" yes to this!!
Agree 100% to be deliberate, save, and buy quality pieces. One will have fewer things, so one consumes less and what one has is more beautiful, more useful, and usually made from more sustainable materials, eg, a wool rug vs. a synthetic rug. Minimalism has nothing to do with being rich or poor; it has everything to do with reducing consumption while creating a peaceful space. Thank you, again, Benita, for sharing your life with us.
Thank you so much!
which peaces are quality ones in our days?
It's kinda hard to buy better quality stuff when you are poor, like third world country poor. Spending 5 dollars more is sometimes the difference between having a roof on their head or living in the streets.
I live in a third world nation btw.
@@NuryPPanaligan It's very hard. Having grown up poor myself, with only one meal a day provided by the public school, I know how it is to not be able to afford anything, let alone have the means to save up for higher quality objects. You need shoes or socks or whatever it is and there is nothing extra for saving. Sadly, too many people live that way and too many people take for granted having the basic necessities. In America, most people I know just consume and consume to take part in the latest trend and they buy low quality sweaters, etc, because they buy cheap stuff just to have something 'cool.' My daughter was bullied for not taking part in that and I have been ostracized by women for dressing too simply and for having higher quality clothes. I hope that more people in America will embrace, "reduce, reuse, recycle," as Benita does.
Good evening Benita. You can have lots of money but have "cheap taste". Your apartment looks expensive because of your choices and because you have good taste.
Thank you! So sweet of you to say!
Eh, I don’t really like conflating expensive with good taste. I think a better world would be “classy”
Grandma always said your get what you pay for. She was so wise
Great video, you're on point. One additional reason why many would consider minimalists as rich is the fact that we have the luxury of not needing to hoard supplies/resources and thus clutter up our spaces. Those impoverished will tend to buy in bulk to save money and thus require storage which eats up space and make it look cluttered. If there's something that you as a minimalist need but don't have(like a tool for example), you can simply purchase it at market rate or borrow. Impoverished don't have that luxury and tend to have to plan much further ahead.
Thank you, great point!
This was soooo good! Strange that you'd get criticism about your lifestyle being expensive (you've stated many times that you work full time), but whenever you are doing something great, a certain portion of the population will somehow find fault. The only fault I find is that you don't do enough videos! But, with a full-time job, I'm super impressed at what you DO do in your bits of free time.
Thank you! I’m so glad you liked it!
People who are poor who need something can't afford to wait until they have the money to buy high quality. Let's use organic, healthy food as an example. Unhealthy food is, generally speaking, much less expensive. So, you buy the cheap stuff, knowing that you're putting your health and the health of your family at risk...but you have to eat. Your health suffers, you get big medical bills and it becomes increasingly difficult to be a productive worker. We need to drastically change the systems and structures that dominate our lives. Here in the US, we have an anti-democratic plutocracy that some mistakenly think is a functional democracy. We need bold, transformative change...and we need it now.
Sure beats socialism. My dad moved here from Sweden. Change comes from within the individual, and those individuals make the policies, which in the US, we can.
We have an oligarchy, where the super rich and the big corporations (example: pharmaceutical companies) control the politicians with lobbying and big donations, therefore controlling policy.
It’s all about effort vs excuses. In the time it would take someone who isn’t rich to get a salary to afford high end healthy food they could grow healthy food or even go to farms that throw out oddly shaped vegetables. The problem with today’s society is, we see we want and then drown in our failure while blaming others instead of working. During slavery in the US black slaves are Sweet Potatoes/Yams & Collard greens...at the time these vegetables were seen as trash compared to cabbage and other ordinary foods but today they are delicacies. If people spent more time being strategic with what they have rather than blaming their misfortune on the rich they’d be sustainable.
@@TokyoBlue587 Unfortunately, yes. We are seeing that now.
You have a lovely home Benita. I feel the "Minimalists are rich" things really goes back to the idea of things being classy when you do have wealth but trashy if you don't. The ideas of Minimalism are great, but it does have a certain image of luxury online.
But it shouldn’t have, there are plenty of minimalists who are just average people and I include myself in them.
I only see simplicity and elegance.it must just be the eye of the beholder.😀
Exactly!
I find the words rich and poor are challenging. They are such a matter of perspective! For one person you can be rich if you buy a new set of sheets for $10 at the discount store even if you have sheets at home, or if you buy the cat food that costs three euros instead of 1.50... and for someone else you are rich if you have a new car, or a car under 10 years old, or a certain kind of car…
For some people it’s Rich if you get your hair done or your nails done, for another rich if you can afford to fly to the moon 🌝 😉
I think he is, and the true message of the essence of “minimalism“ is to be truly where you are and appreciate life in all its variety, allowing love to be the guiding light and releasing fear of lack while stepping forward in(to) trust and clarity. 🥰
@@BenitaLarsson Selling a home for 300 thousand dollars before tax is not average.
It amazes me when people think Ikea is poor quality. I have pieces that I bought for my first apartment in 1990 and my brother is still using pieces that my parents bought in the late ‘70s. They are still in great shape and haven’t gone out of style, in my opinion. 😊
This is such a forward-thinking approach. When I finally get my degree, I'm planning to start saving and slowly building my own small collection of carefully selected and quality pieces for a future living space.
I've been a minimalist since I was 15. Yes, quality is important but I think the most important is discerning needs from wants. I only shop at this time of year- excellent sales and rebates but I do not shop the rest of the year, I keep a running list of what I might want and I usually break that down to just a few things. I have always done it this way and after 30 years, even not earning much, I am financially sound. People associate being rich with material wealth and I find, that most of the time, people are maxes out on credit and loans. My current vehicle is almost 8 years old, my furniture is mostly second hand, minus couches and beds. I don't need much, so I save up and get just the right piece. I do photography and travel a bit, all saved up for. I can even have a separate account now for such things.
Poor people actually discern needs from wants for every purchase, especially when they dont qualify for any credit cards. Do I need to buy an extra package of chicken this week? Or do i just want to eat more than beans fore dinner, more than once this week? Will my fod stamps even cover a 2nd package oof chicken??? do i NEED to pay the light bill this month as in i got a cut off notice.. or do i just WANT them to stop calling me and asking where is the payment? ? That is how that works.
@@meadowwalk I was that poor person. I worked 2 jobs, and a side job petsitting/housesitting, for almost 14 years. I was 15 when I started working and it's been 30 years of slow savings and doing what I could with what I had and still have. I delayed college until I was in my mid 30's and found grants/scholarships and paid my own way through school. Being a minimalist helped, because my needs were few. Now, in my 40's, I need even less, which is opposite of the typical American lifestyle we see. I sold my first house I ever bought, last year, after living in it for almost 11 years, and move to the city. Like Benita, it actually lowered my costs, via maintenance on the house, yard and driving to work. I never got myself into credit card debt and it was hard at times, but I refuse to owe anyone. I hardly make a lot of money, even today, just years of simple, minimal living and making the best choices I could. Here is an example: I just upgraded my bedding. I have wanted a nice down comforter for years but I saved up and bought the one I truly wanted. I take excellent care of it and it may seem expensive to some but it took me 4 years to save for it. Before that, I was sleeping under my wool blanket I found at a thrift store and my sleeping bag.
@@txspacemom765deep respect ❤
You have a clean and well curated home Benita. If a person has style and an aesthetic eye, you will make your home look a lot more expensive than it actually is. You inspire me!
The reason I love your channel is because you are learning and sharing the art of living simply, and the joy that comes from that. It is relaxing and honest. It is more of a mindset than an upgraded lamp (Although I LOVE those!). The term minimalist means so many things to different people. Cheers!
Thank you so much! 😊
I aspire to buy less and buy quality. I started with my most recent move. I am slowly buying quality items and it’s a practice. I’m not a minimalist but I definitely am not a maximalist. I love your channel and it brings me so much peace.
I’m so glad you enjoy my videos!
I love seeing the pieces you've kept over the past decade all over your home! Reading your blog back in the day inspired me to become a minimalist.
I continue to be amazed by how you so gracefully address comments (sometimes criticism) that is thrown at you. Your calm and level-headed approach is something I’m definitely working towards as I mature. Since starting my minimalism journey, I’ve noticed many people having the perception that one needs to spend more to have less. They don’t realise that it’s having less that allows one to spend more. I also appreciated how you highlighted your rug as a learning point, because minimalism is really a continuous learning process of defining the worth of things in one’s life (I recently learned that expensive bed sheets are not very worth it for me because our lifestyle just tends to ruin them very fast). Would love to visit Stockholm one day and meet you!
Thank you! So sweet!
I like how clean the apartment is
I love my world of fresh cut flowers, colorful oil paintings, silk pillows, tapestries, etc...
Never has the saying “buy cheap buy twice been so relevant!” It’s something I live by, and has worked well so far X
I love that saying!
Back in the mid 1980's, I bought a bedroom set. It wasn't cheap but I could see that it was well built and sturdy. Thirty six years later I still own and use that bedroom set. A friend of mine bought a very cheap dresser and it fell apart in less than a year.
Sunlight changing throughout my rooms gives me happiness like no other thing I dragged home from a Winners/marshals/ikea ….you name it.
Perhaps the difference between the two minds sets is: Minimalists think short term pain for long term gain; maximalists look for immediate gratification which amounts to short term gain for long term pain. Minimalists are typically thoughtful and strategic - good qualities for financial control measures....great thoughts and great video..
Great comment, thank you!
I’m not sure if you described maximalists or just someone who make poor choices because of a lack of deliberate approach :)
@@oxana543 Good point....I think Minimalism is so much a mind set of intentionality with the outcome being one ends up owning less in every way from physical, digital, mental and emotional...I like the word 'Deliberate'...well said...:-)
I think what also plays huge role is how good looking your apartment build is. I mean, those windows, floors, baseboards and do on. And all it being white and light dood definitely elevates it all even more!
I love your videos so much. Something about them makes me feel so calm & at ease. I think it’s a combo of your voice, personality & simplicity. Thank you for the words of wisdom! I really needed this today 💙
I’m so happy you enjoy them!
When you are poor you don't choose the quality item. You always go for the more affordable you can pay at the moment. Note, that many people confuse the meaning of poor with the meaning of destitute, the latter not having the option to buy at all.
I totally understand that.
When I was young and “poor” or just starting out I gladly accepted hand-me-down furniture and home goods from relatives and friends. I saved my pennies and then chose pieces carefully for a more curated look. I appreciate your videos Benita. Your style is timeless, elegant, and so classy. ❤️
@@staceypalumbo1499 I am happy that you had the opportunity to have had people who helped you. Hopefully though you realise that this is not a given for everyone, and that being poor is not always a situation that improves when someone grows older.
Exactly. Benita has beautiful items and a great eye for design. IKEA is a step up for me, bc it is all new stuff that I chose, not thrift store or hand me downs. Now I am like, what is wrong with my IKEA rug and desk and chair??
Its always a treat watching your videos, very calm approach, tasteful, low key with soft music . And informative! I look forward to them! Thank you Benita !
Thank you so much for watching them!
I agree, "Less is More" ❤
Very true.
There are so many poor people around the world, even just in the western world, that some people think that those in your position are rich. In France, it's turned quite toxic, because those who really struggle (not being able to pay for heating in the winter for example, or to eat enough and well) see people like you and end up resenting them, thinking "they're rich, it's all their fault" when in reality the inequalities favour mainly the very to ultra-rich, but we don't see them every day, we don't see Jeff Bezos' apartment on RUclips every week (or I guess, his mansions probably).
Another thing to note is that some people think that because you have savings, you're rich and can afford more than them, so they don't understand if you don't want to go to the restaurant, or if you don't move somewhere more expensive, in a better neighbourhood perhaps, so on and so forth. But priorities and values are different. My partner and I saved every cent for many years (I've had a savings account since I was a baby, it's been ingrained in me), which means that during some periods of our lives, we didn't eat very well or we barely did anything outside the house and refused some invitations for what for us was a lack of money. These savings were there for hopefully buying our own place someday, with nice appliances that will last (I dream of a Miele washing machine!), for having a child but also for emergencies, health-related or otherwise, as we don't currently live in a country with truly universal health care, and if something happens, we're very likely to owe quite a few thousands to the hospital (thankfully, not as bas as in the US). Now, we're very happy we lived the way we did, and still do, for a long time, because we lost about 65% of our savings during the pandemic; we had nothing else to live off. Had we not had that, we would've been in a lot of trouble and would've been separated, perhaps indefinitely as we are from 2 different countries that require us to have visas if we want to be together, but also a ton of money for plane tickets and other expenses. So, to some of my friends when I was still studying, I was more well-off than them and shouldn't have refused to go to concerts or to buy such and such, but in the end, this year, it has allowed me to live, eat and not be apart from my fiancé.
I love this.... “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 16:19-21
Lovely video. It took me some time to realise that less is more. In my 30s I much more prefer quality rather than quantity. I've learnt to save for pieces that I truly love and keep a list of my favourite things saved on Milanote.
Having a list to shop by is 👌🏻
i love how your home decoration is not only gray, white n black like some usual minimalist style!
Great video. You are right high end and less stuff does make a lot of difference. Thanks for all your hard work.
Thank you! I'm so glad you enjoy my videos!
Your channel motivated me to finally go through and declutter my storage space after two years of just dumping things in there, it's now nice and tidy. Thank you, Benita! :)
True! I do the high / low mix and keep things simple and minimal. In the long run l spend so much less money. I only bring in pieces and object I really like.
Great minds think alike 😊
Thanks for sharing Benita. I agree with you on all points. Unbelievably I am still using my IKEA dining table that was gifted to me 38 years ago. It has been refinished twice and is still going strong. Stay well
That's so great to hear!
Thanks for sharing and I always enjoy your videos. Love your kitty we had a cat very much like yours and was a sweet kitty, I think she brings the richness into your apt 🌹
Both my cats add do much to the cozy vibe here!🐈🐈⬛
You have echoed what my mother always told me .When you buy good pieces, they will last. Spend more, and you will really get your money's worth from them.Your home always looks spotless well organized. I find myself removing pieces, instead of adding them. I really enjoyed your video.
Your mother and I clearly are two peas in a pod!🙌🏻
I have the same big basket that your cat sleeps on in my living room, I put my blankets that I use on the couch, I've had it for many years and absolutely love it, still looks new.☺️
Mine had firewood in it in an apartment we lived in that the previous tenants left for us over 20 years ago 😊
I can never hear the word "IKEA" without thinking about Edward Norton's character in the film Fight Club and how he was always buying IKEA. 😊 You have a lovely home btw. ☺️
This took me by surprise since when minimalism became a thing people joked it used to be called just being poor. Especially with the extreme ones who don't own much furniture and sit on the floor.
I've always tried to save up to buy quality items rather than buy all the cheaper bargains which tend to have a short life. There is also something about looking at quality pieces that give more pleasure. Quality over quantity is my motto and fits well into the minimalism lifestyle. Thanks for all your insight!
Quality over quantity indeed!🙌🏻
I feel bad that you had to make this video because of those comments. I've followed you since you're blogging days & have seen you work hard to achieve the spaces you desired. I learned from you too, especially about editing my own home and looking at furniture/furnishings beyond the cheap & quick fixes. I'm almost happy with my home, but it takes years to get there because I have a young family, lol. It's so true about saving money and thinking over purchases carefully before adding to your space.👍
It has taken time and effort to get here but it was worth it 😊
I really like your apartment. It’s calming. Very tasteful. I must say I liked Pete’s house too, as this is similar to what my place looks like (but on the other side of the world). I love seeing lots of books on a bookshelf. It brings me such joy. By the way, your personal story is very inspiring. Thank you for sharing. This was a great vlog 🌻
I totally agree with this concept, it means for me at least, "just have enough of what you need" but including things that you like as well.
Not more than you can handle, keep or afford.. It is not only a matter of numbers of items...as I said, just enough ;-). Nice video, thank you Benita!
Thank you so much for watching it!
Oh, lovely , beautifully edited video, Benita. This is totally my mindset, my husband is Pete ( who ♥️ collections of stuff 😱)...so I can now torture him with "Pete's Place" footage. Thanks SO much 🤣
Hahaha, too funny! Say hi to Pete for me!
That is so funny, Phoenix! Nice name, btw.
@@lindal3966 🥰
My apartment screams "this was the cheapest furniture at Ikea". Can't wait until I graduate uni and someday can get some quality pieces instead when my 20€ Ikea table finally gives up
I admire how you think, do, plan and live. Talk about lesson learned, some on my own, some from you and you sharing your experience. Like your desk where you moved it, looks nice. All your things look nice! Thank you for this video.
Thank you so much for watching it!
So true, buy cheap buy twice. Great video
Exactly! And thank you!
so true and well presented. Thanks for the beautiful shots of kitty relaxing...she looks so happy. Look forward to seeing this year's Christmas decor video.
Thank you, it’s coming up in two weeks!
thank you for sharing. my husband and i just moved into a 2 bedroom condo with a balcony from a one bedroom with no balcony. we chose that as not only a money saver over a house but also we didn't want the massive size upgrade. its just the two of us and this allows us to have a proper office space since we are both working from home these days. also too, the way we've decorated thus far is a bit more boho in the living and kitchen but we are very minimal in the bedroom with decor. having just our bed, two side tables, a plant stand, and nothing on the walls has been very calming to us.
That sounds perfect to me!
Wow, YES! I have the exact same mindset and spending style. Literally I am the same in all aspects that you’ve discussed.
Two peas in a pod!🟢🟢
Benita continue doing what you love and cater your lifestyle to yourself, there are way to many people who claim to be Minimalist who are constantly judging others and are still competing in society rather seeking self fulfillment.
I think it happens in the opposite order. Being minimalist has given me a clear and peaceful mind, to focus on my financial goals. And without realizing it, I'm being frugal because I avoid buying things I don't absolutely need. for example, I have brought exactly the outfit I want, to look nice, and people at work always compliment me on my outfit even though I wear the same shoes, socks, jeans and sweater everyday. the only thing I change is underwear. The money someone else my age would be spending out multiple outfits, Ive been buying stocks and investments.
That’s great, I love it!
i think most people also confuse wealth with good taste. minimalists usually have good taste, because we have undergone the process of self-refinement to know what style(s) we like, why we like it and why we will pay for it. this is in direct opposition to how most spend, influenced by trends, social pressure or internalised anxiety. at the end of the day, the fine editing and curation of self and accoutrement gives a refined feel, which many may perceive as "expensive".
I would love a financial freedom and apartment/house investment video. For foreigners it seems a little hard to get enough financial benefits in the long run in Sweden, because of the pension system (using ETF)...? But it's hard to judge from the outside. The whole top/botten lån thing on the other hand seems very useful and less "expensive" than in other European countries... If you ever find the time, that would be so interesting to hear more about from an actual Swede 💙💛
Thanks for the suggestion. I’m not great at finances so I don’t think it’s a video I’m equipped to make though.
@@BenitaLarsson I totally understand. 💙
I agree. It's not only about minimalism. I've heard once that if one's not rich one can't afford cheap stuff. Words to live by. In the long run saves a ton of money.
I love that!
What you say is so true! Spending more on some items, over time they all match and look as if i had the money and bought them all at once, but instead i deliberately chose high quality items and whenever i have money i get the next thing on my list. sometimes i think wow people must think i am rich if they see this item or that thing but i know most of it is even bought used items that are in good shape and just match my whole minimalist style
Great video. Första gången jag ser någon förklara hur vi lever och hur ekonomin funkar i Sverige. Tumme upp. First time I see someone explain how we live and how economy works in Sweden. This is great. Loving your channel. Stor kram ❤️
Hi Benita, the word Rich in English
does not only refer to money.
There is rich food, rich colours
(like maroons, dark greens,
deep purple) rich in body, mind
and spirit. I like your apartment
very much. Think many viewers
on Utube do not realise the cost
of living as in Scandinavis,
Switzerland and...... I believe
in buying less but better quality.
Enjoy your week. Greetings
from Zurich.
Thank you so much for watching!
Well hello 1 11! Hope you are doing well. I totally agree with the meaning if rich, that unfortunately, is mostly used for money.
Greetings from Canada
My parents' house was a "museum" that went from the 17th to the 19th century and I lived in a similar environment to which I added Florence Knoll sofas, Corbusier chaise longues, Mackintosh chairs, Tizio lamps, Ipotenusa, etc... Great designers are not exclusive of minimalists. They go very well with large silver pieces with very old hallmarks, India Company, Sèvres or, for example, a large Italian counter in ebony, ivory and semi-precious stones, whose brother is in the Castello Sforza in Milano.
It may be worth noting that everything must have a certificate of authenticity, as antiques and design pieces are often counterfeited.
It is astonishing what one can get for their money when buying good quality items, especially with opting for secondhand instead of new. When maintaining them properly they can easily last for generations. On the flipside, not having the money to spare but actually needing the object does mean being stuck in a perpetual cycle of bad qaulity, short lived things..
Thank you for the very insightful video, I hope more people take the message to heart in the future!
Oh, I totally understand the flip side!
I have similar Ikea rugs and am very happy with them. On the other hand, I couldn't stand their beds and mattresses which sink on the edges so you will fall to the floor!
I totaly agree with You ! Choose things You love and learn to take care of them and they will last long and give you joy, I think everyone needs a place to rest and feel safe and relaxed, whatever it means for them, thank You for posting all this great content
Lol “pieces which don’t scream IKEA”
There's nothing wrong with IKEA. I hate this condescending attitude towards people who don't have a ton of money to spend on furniture. Maybe some of us prioritize child care and food.
I love IKEA! I was mocking what she said. It’s funny how Sweds look down on Swedish owned IKEA. I actually don’t think IKEA quality is cheap. Some items are questionable. But so are items at American Furniture! Some of the best items I own were from IKEA, and they’ve lasted me years.
Oh goody, first! Xxx Good video, Benita. Loving the photography. ❤
Yay, happy you're first! Thank you!
It’s about quality, not quantity.
This was so inspiring! I have recently renovated my entire apartment and I really really practice constraint in not buying new stuff too quickly. I want to save up for the good things that have longed for 😍 Also I have promised myself to only buy my favorite lux shampoo and a cashmere sweater for Black Friday 🤞🤞 unless I can find the black solstickan fire extinguisher at a bargain, then I will definitely get that one as well 🤞
Have a lovely and peaceful first of advent. Look forward to seeing your decorations hopefully in the next video ✨
I’m so glad you enjoyed it. Great Black Friday plan!
Another lovely and relevant video Benita, thank you. Something else that came to my mind is caring for the items we have.
Pete has to spend more time cleaning and maintaining his stuff whereas you have less items to care for, therefore not having to rush when cleaning or repairing something.
Pete might not even see that something is broken or worn out because there are too many distractions
Yes, Pete has his work cut out!🤣
The pieces you bought are super cool now, you will probably be surprised what’s in fashion in the future. When I was young giant brown antiques were highly valued. Now you can’t give them away. Buy what you love now, don’t count on the designer looks being valued in the future.
I would argue that highly valued at a certain time vs. classic timeless design isn’t the same. The pieces I have were designed in the 1930’s through the early 1990’s and they’re still going strong 😊
"I don't buy a ton of stuff". That is my philosophy too. It started as a poor graduate student, but now that I am an adult with a full time job, it's just stuck around as a habit. I don't buy many things, and when I do need something, I take the time to research so that I know what brands are higher quality and will last, and never impulse-buy things. This cuts down on regret/not liking something, because those both lead to buying more things to replace the thing you impulse bought but now don't like.
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I have always subscribed to the save up $ for quality and buy only once. It has paid off every time
Thank you Benita, well done once again... for myself I have found great things at the thrift store for either to decorate my home ,or for my clothes... found nice pieces at a fraction of the price, and I refuse to pay full price for anything....(well...small exceptions lol). Take care my friend.. love from Canada xxx.
Thrift stores are a great place to find quality items! Takes a bit if sifting but gems are available!
You seem like such a sweet and very intelligent woman. And your voice and videos are so calming. And it doesn't matter what your financial situation is because it's no one's business !!! Everyone is entitled to better themselves if and where they can. You do you girl !!!!!!!
Aww, thank you so much!😊
I’ve worked in numerous “fine” homes, and noted their bespoke wool fitted carpeting and rugs seemed to always get infested with moths, and then their fine wool garments. As nice as the carpeting is, they routinely had to have the place sprayed with moth poison. My response after 25+ years is : my small house only has two room size rugs, both low pile and sturdy/ comfy synthetic material.
Is there some method you can suggest to pre-treat wool rugs in a safe fashion, to prevent moths?
( after seeing the mess of moths at employers’ homes, I buy only the occasional nice wool sweater, second hand, and freeze them in a plastic bag for at least a month, before placing in a drawer, and clean any food spills immediately. I keep usually one or two wool sweaters, a few pairs of socks, otherwise have few woolen items.)
Thank you for years of visual serenity with your blog, and now RUclips.
I’ve never had problems with moths. I do keep cedar blocks in my closet and where I store woolens. Sanding them from time to time helps to keep the cedar potent.
You explained it perfectly. For me, I couldn't be as minimal as you are. I like change, I like to move furniture around, I like adding and subtracting pieces. For years, in my last home most of the furniture was thrifted. I liked this because I was able to get excellent quality for a minimal price. Then when I wanted a change, I just donated it back to the thrift store. Win/win for everyone. In my new home, that I bought 2 /1/2 yrs ago everything including the home was brand new. The sale of the previous home afforded me the luxury of buying all new furnishings. I didn't buy top of the line buecause I knew I'd want to change things up in a few years. I'm already feeling the "itch" to do so :) Thanks for the video 🍃🍂🍁🌵💗🦃🍃🍁🍂💗🍃🍂🍁🌵💗🦃🍃🍁🍂💗🍃🍂🍁🌵💗🦃🍃🍁🍂💗
Thank you so much for watching!
In 2003 my parents bought a house and new furniture the only furniture items they replaced is what my sister and I grew out usually just beds. I still have at least 3 pieces of furniture my dad built for me as a child. I'm now 20 and expecting a child of my own.
Hej Benita! I think it's never crossed my mind to think if you're rich or not and much less to tell you so. I don't think that would be any of my business anyway. What I personally see is that you prefer quality over quantity and that you lead a non wasteful life. Also sometimes people relate having an inner elegance or being classy with being rich and I don't really think they're related. I find investing in good things and things you really love are the best choice. You'll have it for years because of its quality and because loving it one tends to look after it even more. Thank you for sharing and for a lovely video as always. Take care xxx
Thank you so much!
@@BenitaLarsson ❤️
I thought you were going to share that “minimalists are rich” because of the peace and freed-up time that minimalism can bring to one’s life. Your content was a surprise but I enjoyed it anyway. I’ve got a lot of work to do. Thank you for the inspiration. Hoping you are feeling well these days.
Love your videos and so inspiring for people like me still traveling the road to minimalism so at the moment I am calling myself an inbetweenist.
I honestly think no matter what, there are always going to be people out there who are so dissatisfied with their own lives that they will then have the need to try to see fault in someone else's life and criticize them. Comments will come,, "Oh you are not a minimalist you have too much"........ or ... "you have so little it is cold looking
you need to buy more to make it more cosy and welcoming."
A tidy well kept home not full of clutter always appears has a look of 'richness'
Well done to you (and others) for working hard to achieve what you have, no one can take that from you. Have a blessed day 🌹
I've had a similar conversation with friends, family, and co-workers. For example, my co-workers though it was crazy that I spent $150 in a pair of work appropriate boots. I have had those boots for almost 5 years. My co-workers and I calculated that they each spend $75-100 each year on new boots, that they have to replace every single year. My 1, more expensive purchase is actually cheaper in a financial sense! I also explained that I will be having the boots re-soled which was will be less than $20, to keep them for many years to come.
My husband and I are firm believers that we will spend more money to only buy an item once. Thank you for making this video, I don't think many people consider this!
Good quality shoes can last so long! I have a pair of Blundstones and a pair of RM Williams that I've had for at least a decade each and they're still going strong!
Hi Benita! Thank you for this video and sharing your experience and approach! This is exactly what I needed to hear before the Black Friday sales. I have the same mindset, though got overexcited about Christmas decorations this year.
I was becoming out of control online shopping as our retail shops are shut down. I really needed this as well! Cheers from Canada!
Oh, I think this year everyone is over excited about bringing out Christmas, minimalist it not!
My husband and I are preparing for retirement in September 2021. We downsized to a house half the size of the previous one six years ago. We may move full-time to a condo we bought last Spring which is just under 1200sq ft. (111.484 sq meters). We continue to find what is working for us and what isn't in regard to our needs in furniture, decorative items, clothing, kitchen, and other personal items. We have found a fondness for the Scandinavian "look" and multi-function of furniture and decorative items. I grew up familiar with some Scandinavian awareness (Norwegian on my father's side). Now, we're looking for kitchen and bedroom furniture with a similar look to yours. We're in the process of selling our current bedroom furniture, which because of it's design, promotes over accumulation of jewelry and clothing in the drawers and knick- knacks on the dresser surface. I've greatly reduced my clothing, shoes, handbags, jewelry, and coats and have never felt so free and satisfied! Your videos inspire me creatively and encourage me to continue on my path to minimalism.
Ooh, lucky you, retiring! Have fun redecorating!
I like your pragmatic - very Swedish - approach to life! Very insprational!
Aww, thanks so much!
Totally agree with you 😍. Lovely video like always. I was waiting patiently for it 😄😋
Thank you so much, glad it was worth the wait!
watching your videos has helped me change my mindset... love your content 💕
I’m so happy to hear they’ve been helpful!
The joy of being a minimalist 🌻
Lovely and such a gorgeous kitty 🐱🥰✨💖🙏
In my opinion:
Minimalism has nothing to do with money, it’s a mindset.
I’m 50 years old and grew up with plenty of money, I was a single mother up until 2 years ago and live on a disability pension in Australia (I own my own townhouse from my divorce when my daughter was 3).
In my experience, my mind is the most settled when I look around my home and everything matches ( I have white and ash wood decor) and everything I own has a purpose and can be used for multiple tasks ( why have more than 1 spoon for stirring a pot for example) and I budget to buy the best I can afford and for things I NEED.
I found any homewares I’ve bought ended up being used to fill empty walls and surfaces, only to realise that I prefer the calmness of having the space free and the walls blank😃
I also prefer the calmness that fewer belongings bring me😊
Excellent video as usual. It makes my day to see a new posting from you. I would rather buy myself an expensive quality soap than a ton of cheaper products.
Gracias Benita. Estoy de acuerdo en todo el video.
Nosotros hicimos lo mismo, primera casa la vendimos a mayor precio, la segunda igual, pagamos muchos impuestos en España 🇪🇸.
Con lo que nos ha quedado, nos hemos comprado un piso.
Los muebles de buena calidad, los tenemos desde la primera casa y son clásicos que no pasan de moda.
I live by the phrase CPW - Cost Per Wear. If you buy a high
quality piece but wear or use it 100 times then it makes the piece very reasonable. If you buy an inferior piece but only use or wear it once then item is actually more expensive in the long run x
CPW 🙌🏻
Looked it up, 4.2% tax when selling a home, wow.
In Canada we don’t have to pay tax on any home we sell as long as it is our principal residence.
However real estate fees are 5% unless it is sold privately.
Those fees are ridiculous, it was one thing when houses were 6 and 7 hundred thousand dollars but most homes are well over a million Canadian and 5% is a crazy fee for the exact amount of work.
Your home is really lovely Benita, thankyou you are my source of inspiration!
You moved your desk from your bedroom - notice the small things. Quite agree - so worth saving for the perfect piece rather than settling for the cheaper option. Acrylic v cashmere.
I did, I wanted a dedicated bedroom.