We Need To Talk... How You Shouldn't Approach Minimalism | Toxic Minimalism
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- Опубликовано: 10 сен 2024
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Today I'm sharing my thoughts on how people shouldn't think about or approach minimalism by discussing the toxic side of minimalism.
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I hate the double standards. I think society needs to normalize outfit repeating! It is okay to wear the same outfit to multiple events. We should be able to purchase a few quality “going out” pieces and wear them for years without someone commenting “didn’t you wear that to xyz event?”
So true, what I do now is wear the same thing every time I go shopping or to work and No One says a thing to me.
I change the hairstyle, earrings, shoes and make-up. And if anyone says something I look at them like they have no idea what they are talking about. Then they back off. And I have less to deal with, in general.
Just quit worrying about what everyone else thinks.
@@bumblebee_ms I have started saying to the few people who made comments about me wearing the same thing again and again "It's because I love the things I have sooooo much." And grin :D Works every time and you see how they are disappointed they didn't manage to hurt you. Makes my day even more :)
@@00tsingo I love that! The less we care, the more power we have.
It is possible. I throw on a different cardigan, scarf or jacket over my Christmas party dress for three or four years and tend to hide behind other people for pictures. No one has said they think I like this dress too much! Yet. LOL
But, in all seriousness, I think people notice what we're wearing a lot less than we worry they do.
Yeah that whole 'don't keep it if you can replace it for 20 dollars or in 20 minutes', is not something I can relate to. Limited budget means if in a month I have a handful of items I have to repurchase, my budget will be blown. Add on, because of health issues, I'm not driving atm, so sometimes getting things isn't as easy as hopping in the car and driving 5 minutes to the store. Some forms of minimalism seem very wasteful and are adding to our landfills. I really like that term 'lessism'. That's how I'd describe my goal. Thanks for shining a light on the not so pretty sides of minimalism.
This is a great topic. Sustainability can conflict with minimalism if you eliminate the tools to care for your family without so much consumerism. Sometimes it takes a bit of storing odds and ends to make the garden bed, repair the fence, fix the bike, etc. My dad used to call it his "cultch pile" where he went to find materials that he inventively used to fix and create useful things. My grandfather had a blacksmith shop in the barn. He could make a part for a machine and repair it. To do that he needed the scrap material he'd set aside. It wasn't clutter, it was raw material. He was really a true minimalist because he didn't head to Home Depot every time he wanted to do something.
Essentialist ™
This is beautiful
Not sure if it is my age or not but I no longer give a hoot what others think about what I wear and where I wear it. I have gotten rid of a lot of my clothes and this has given me the freedom of only having a handful of items to pick from, to take care of, to store, etc.. I wear the same clothes every week. If it bothers anyone, I don't care. Their opinions no longer bother me. No one has ever said anything to me. If they talk behind my back I certainly don't care. That is on them and their problem. Again, maybe it is my age and learning more and more of what is important to me now. The opinion of others does not make the cut. Great video. Thanks for sharing.
Some really great points, and some things I wish I had considered when I first started to become more minimalist. How frustrated I was when we ended up getting a car, even though we truly needed it. How I was annoyed I didn't declutter earlier, when at that stage of our lives we couldn't afford to replace anything if I accidentally decluttered something important. And how hiding away things that brought me joy, all for an aesthetic, was silly. My 100s of books bring me SO much happiness sitting on shelves all over my home... and though I subscribe to a lot of minimalist principles, I refuse to make my kids feel like the odd one out with their friends because they have so few toys. I think a happy middle ground is the most balanced and sensible option, and holding an extreme minimalist view is a luxury.
I think this is why I'm subscribed to way fewer minimalist youtubers than I used to; I've curated down to those who lean more towards "minimalish" or "essentialist", and even then, with a more relaxed view on it.
This was fantastic, thank you so much. What you said about (especially women) being expected to always wear different things really hit home with me. When I was in 4th or 5th grade a boy at school very judge mentally pointed out that I wore the same pants two days in a row. It had never occurred to me that that was something to avoid, but here I am, 30 years later, still trying to make sure no one sees me in the same clothes twice in a row. I hate it.
So many other excellent points (particularly how minimalism can be a privilege), I LOVE that you’re addressing this. Lessism for the win!
I love that you talked about social economical background. Thank you for acknowledging and including this conversation. I always love your videos and your raw authenticity.
Thank you for your insights.♥ Your thoughts on privilege ring true; minimalism can be a sort of experiment for those who can afford to try it out and suffer no inconvenience if they decide they don't like it. I realized a while back that strict/extreme minimalism was not for me. In order to live life and express our talents and dreams, we need "stuff." For example, my husband and I love to cook, so a minimalist kitchen with 2 saucepans and 5 spices would be absurd for us. But the key is knowing the boundary between abundance and overconsumption and excess. I've found minimalist discussions to help me with that, but lately I've learned more wisdom from those who talk about frugality.
Thank you for addressing so many nuances and considerations, this is why I follow you. I'm by no means a minimalist, more of an intentional maximalist striving to be a little more minimal.
Essentialist ™
My minimalism was born out of necessity. As a single mom I am poor! "Intentional" suit me better than minimal. I only own what I need. And my definition of need is different then the worlds. The toughest one is my cell phone. It's very old and my plan is very limited. In a world of "apps" and verification codes. I have to say - "no -my cell won't do that - it's just for emergencies with my son". People (especially my job) would get rude about how I really needed a better phone. I just say, if you feel that way then you'll have to pay for it. I am amazed how people have come to expect immediate access to each other at any time. I was glad when answering machines were invented but sometime I feel we had more freedom when the phone was attached to the wall. Ha
100% agree with you on the instant access thing. I'm away from my phone as much as possible and don't have notifications on because I hate the constant interruptions. Modern expectations are absurd and unhealthy in so many areas.
Thank you for naming this, especially about different cultural perspectives on art, culture and living. I find that some modern (white) minimalist perspectives can have this almost puritanical streak...where the supposed answer to one's own unresolved guilt, shame and fear is to try to eliminate (I use that somewhat punitive and violent word on purpose) as many possessions as possible. The remaining possessions only cause a small amount of guilt/shame, and so those are tolerable. Unfortunately, this doesn't only apply to outer parts of oneself (belongings) but also inner parts of oneself (dreams, quirks, flaws, creativity, the seeds of culture). Practicing minimalism *can* help us face some of those patterns of guilt and shame, but it can also amplify these patterns. Wouldn't it be great if minimalism was in service of self-care, self-expression and community-building, instead of an end in itself, or at its worst, a hyper-self-conscious, individualistic and isolated shame spiral? Thank you for reading.. 😌
I love the idea of “lessism”. When I tell people I am pursuing minimalism, but then they walk around my house ( a house with young kids) I feel judged. I feel like people have the idea that I need to have nothing, however that is totally unrealistic with where we are in life. I have been pursuing“less” so we can easily maintain and do our day to day with less stress. Because of the stigma that minimalism means “nothing- living out of a van”, people I could influence ( bc this is seriously a great way to live) elevate their eyebrows. Loved the video! So much truth! Ultimately, living with less or with just what you need is what it is all about!
I think minimalism as an aesthetic is different to me - home decor, design, etc, than minimalism as a lifestyle - just being more intentional about my life and shopping more mindfully. My home certainly does not have that minimal aesthetic but it is clutter free and cozy. You make some great points. Enjoy your videos.
I always love how much thought you put into your videos! However, I believe the problem isn't the philosophy or lifestyle of minimalim as much as some of its proponents. I do prefer the term intentional living, for me it's a better fitting definition of not quite being minimal but definitely on that side of the spectrum - and more appropriate for most of the content on "minimalim" I consume on IG and RUclips. Additionally, it's more readily adaptable to all kinds of people from different socio-economic backgrounds as the philosophy (of being intentional) remains the same and does not require a numeric marker or other form of comparison. So I think the whole toxicity stems mainly from us, by misusing the term minimalism and for judging each other harshly.
Ypu are so right. I love how you are able to be so level-headed and considerate. I wish more people could be so perceptive and open to others' viewpoints and individualities
For me, I use the term simplified living rather than minimalism when chatting with my family and friends. It resonates better and feels right for me
Love that!
EXCELLENT video!!! It seems like so many people forget that minimalism means something different to EVERYONE based on so many personal things. I think that the word “enough” is an important word when people find that just right balance in their own personal minimalist journey. It can be very frustrating when some minimalists dictate that you should only have a specific number of each of your items. Suggestions are fine, but those are the kinds of things that make people feel guilty thinking they have too many things according to one someone else’s minimalist journey. Thank you, Elin, for sharing these important topics. 😅
Thank you for all these unique insights, as always! I usually like to think about minimalism as enoughism. That way it does not become too restrictive or exclusive of other people’s standards and situations, and it teaches me how to be happy with what I have in all areas of my life without making me feel guilty about getting something new.
Do what everybody else is doing if you are okay with only having what everybody else has.Information that will pay you everyday, you've got to stop saving all your money.
Venture into investing some, if you really want financial stability.
Choose to grow and elevate your mind by studying audios, videos, attending conferences that will give you the edge!
In situations like this,I always recommend to people on getting guidance at least from someone that understands price action and all that while you strive on improving yourself by watching videos and learning fundamental analysis.
It's also important to remember those who have mental health issues. I am a minimalist, but grew up in a hoarding situation. It's easy to look down on those who are struggling. While we have found an answer that helps us, it's important to have compassion on those who can't just get rid of stuff.
I don’t think decluttering should ever apply to a hoarder. And the term hoarder should be used carefully and respectfully.
I think your thoughts were really insightful. As a woman, I feel a societal pressure to have outfits. Some of it is external pressure. Some of it is internal pressure. The belief that a lack of things or alot of the right things is internally or spiritually transformative seems to be a riddle in my mind. Maybe minimalism is recognizing you have enough, you are enough, but even that is relative to what you actually have. Minimalism seems like a first world problem. Many people all over the world are still just trying to survive. I cant imagine what minimalism looks like to them.
Great post Elin, some interesting thoughts. I come from a low socioeconomic background (that I am trying hard to overcome while dealing with chronic illness).
I started decluttering nearly a year ago but I have no intention to be a minimalist. I started my Decluttering channel as I don’t see many channels with creators with my background and intentions. I live in social housing and my husband and I survive on his low wage. A lot of the minimalist homes are huge with expensive furniture and a very privileged lifestyle.
Regarding what you mentioned of privilege What we often find in low socioeconomic homes is a culture of hoarding (which you touched on). They keep EVERYTHING due to a scarcity mindset. Often you’ll see people with mental health issues (not always) in poor homes and hoarding can be a symptom of that. I only decided to declutter when I hit breaking point and still have to fight the urge to buy stuff when I’m shopping.
My cover says make room for the good stuff meaning improved living and happier lives and that really is individual. A decluttering journey had to suit an individual and owning nothing is not for everyone, I totally agree with you. If I wanted a totally minimal space I’d book into the Hilton lol (if I had the money lol).
Your videos always get me thinking. Thank you for taking the time to make them. I hope you’re doing well. X
❤ great talk. I could relate to a lot of these things. The feeling of being understood is helpful
I have been blessed and have much more than I need. I am focusing on right sizing and letting go of the excess while keeping what I need and wish to keep. I was always a big collector of things. Now I look for ways I can share my good fortune with those I love and my community. Acknowledging my privilege keeps me grounded in gratitude.
20 years back my then boyfriend (today husband) and I were invited to five weddings in six weeks. We wore the same outfits to all of these weddings! It would not be economical or sustainable to buy five different outfits for both of us, so we didn't. It took a lot of pressure from us the moment we decided to go with the same outfits for all of the weddings! And nobody noticed, because we were just guests and not the main characters on theses events! ;-)
Five years later I met a mother at Kindergarten who had two sets of twins two years apart (yes, it was in the newspapers!) and she wore the same "uniform" every day: Black trousers and shirts in three different colours. She always looked so put together and it was the first time I thought of an everyday outfit as a uniform. And so I wear black t-shirt and blue jeans every time I go shopping and call it my shopping uniform.
Thank you so much for sharing this! We are now in a financial situation that we were not in a few years ago. Sometimes I feel pressure to get rid of things that we may need and can’t afford to just go and replace them if need be. Balance is important. I also love beautiful colors. Simplicity is important to me but with beauty and balance. While I do need to declutter in certain areas I need to do it in a balanced way.
Also… added thought here. I recently had surgery on my hand and while it is bandaged had to find something that would fit over my hand. I pulled this older sweater out of the closet that is out of style, bigger fit, that I was seriously considering getting rid of. It fit over my hand perfectly and was so warm in this cold weather. When I mentioned to my husband that I was thinking of getting rid of it, he told me how nice I looked in it. The compliment and how he views me in it is more important than the latest styles and now I was glad I held on to it.
Lots of good points to ponder. But as far as the person who commented on the cardigan, that person is NOT a friend and I would minimize them in my life. Their comment was rude and hurtful.
I watch most of your videos but I typically don't respond. This video caught my attention, especially when you discussed the "classist" issue. I had never really contemplated it even though I feel that I sort of lived that for awhile. When I had a four bedroom home, with a basement, attic, shed and garage, I definitely held onto more things "because I could" and because I really had that someday I might need it mentality. Some things were more necessary to hold onto but some things I purchased because I never had it growing up and I thought there was something I was missing. Now, I live alone in a small two bedroom apartment. No storage aside from my closets. My four children are all grown so I need way less in my life, although I try to keep things for my grandchildren (who live out of state so they are rarely here to use the toys/activities I think I need for them.) Moving here 6 years ago made me really think about my possessions and through your videos (and Dawn's from the Minimal Mom) I have learned that I can declutter a lot. Sometimes reflecting on my life, my activities, my priorities, my dreams has helped guide me. But back to the issue of "class".... You really made me think about how others don't have a choice. That even though I don't have much money myself, I am comfortable and that reminds me to be grateful each and every day, for having the necessities. Thank you for opening my eyes to this topic of toxic minimalism.
Thank you for this thoughtful comment, Ann! Really interesting to hear about your story and experiences. It’s interesting also how needs change as life evolves
Very thought provoking. I agree with all the points you put forward about the pitfalls of minimalism. When I downsized from a large family home where I had raised three children (plus partners at various points!), I really needed to declutter but I prefer to think that the aesthetic of my current, much smaller space is simplicity mixed with hygge. I really wanted to create a simple lifestyle but in a welcoming, comfortable space
I've spent over a decade working with families from low-income backgrounds and homelessness and I don't agree with the part about minimalism being classist and only for those that can "afford" to declutter. I think the bigger culprit is consumerism, convenience culture, and lack of education. I feel these three things are often overlooked in minimalist communities, because they all can negatively impact any socioeconomic structure. Unchecked consumerism, relying on hyper convenience culture and not having a foundational knowledge of maintaining a household is a very real root cause to a lot of issues that can impact quality of life and mental health too. I've found working with my community that minimalism was a really good tool for helping people get back on track. Consumerism for me was probably the biggest culprit though. Many of the families I worked with were consuming outside of their means not only from buying cheap but overall costly convenience items but "luxury" items too. A big example of over consuming had a lot to do with clothing or entertainment items that often carried a big sticker price. Influencers that were relevant to them had just as much of an impact on a family and their spending, "keeping up with the Jones" can happen in any community rich or poor. I also saw it as an emotional coping mechanism to deal with loneliness, stress, and even boredom, buying items they don't need which resulted in clutter and in a lot of cases I dealt with families that hoarded. But these things can impact people from all socioeconomic backgrounds too. However in a low income home it would impact their health and well being. Some families would forgo buying food so that they could purchase the newest popular entertainment item like a TV or console, shoes like Air Jordans, or a luxury item knock off with Gucci on it. I know that is really specific but the housing community I worked with had those as the top ones, no joke. Most clutter for these families were an abundance of children's toys, clothing items, and processed food and fast food containers, which leads me back to consumerism and convenience. Some did have bulk item clutter from buying things on sale to have for later, some did have trouble letting broken things go, a lot was just basic home cleaning and maintenance that was hard to do because it was cluttered. I used minimalism to help my families refocus and how to better care for their household because so many came from backgrounds where that wasn't a norm for them to have a clean, safe home. So often this was the reality for many people that found themselves in section 8 housing, having grown up in homes where these things were never modeled or taught or they lived their lives in various states of chaos. I don't think minimalism needs to have such a cloud cast on it about it only being for those that have time and money and I've seen the positive result of it being utilized in low income communities. I do think minimalism has become trapped in the influencer lifestyle culture, but it doesn't need to be.Blame the RUclips Algorithm for having to have that clickbait appearance example: everything has white with subtle neutral tones...etc...which you do touch on. We need more people in minimalist communities engaging with a broader spectrum of people from all walks of life including and most importantly different socioeconomic spheres. I think that happens by broadening content and content creators. I think we can do that by engaging our community through education and often right now that is done face to face, not just through RUclips. I think minimalism is for everyone, we just need more people modeling the different faces of it. It can be people from low income communities, it can be colorful, it can be more than a capsule wardrobe, it can be having fun figurines and pop culture items, we just haven't seen all the faces of it that represent that because they aren't in the RUclips algorithm but they are there. I do know for me there needs to be more people calling out hyper consumerism and convenience culture which can lead to this chaos of clutter that results in resources being wasted and I think minimalism should shift some of the focus on that as part of this lifestyle change too. Minimalism needs to reground itself in what I feel its primary goal was, which was to stop hyper consumerism and convenience consumerism and live with more mindfulness and simplicity with what you've got and what you love and how to take care of those things too. Anyway, thanks for all you do!
Wow well said! You’ve hit the nail on the head.
Loved this because I call myself a minimalism and people that know me are like no way since I do still own a lot to be more maximalist or even idk plain clutter to others but my utilizing the label minimalist it has helped my sticky brain donate so much excess! Im not done with my journey but I have come to love the idea of minimalism in the sense that I create a curated minimal to ME lifestyle (with tons of color and pop!)
Great video. Thanks for addressing what so many others ignore. Personally, I like the term essentialism. I've noticed that people tend to react to minimalism as though it's elitist, exclusive and that you are preparing to judge them. In some cases that appears to be true but none of that applies to me. I understand that everyone is on their own path and in our society people become programmed to over consume. It's not easy for people to change their mindset when you are constantly being bombarded from every direction about what you are told you 'need to have'. On another note, my decorating style is not like what you normally see on IG or Pinterest because I like pops of color and patterns. I designed it to reflect me and my interests.
I like "Intentionalism." To me, this means you are being very conscious of what stuff you accept into your space.
I am pursuing a more simple/decluttered life. I don’t say minimalism because of these reasons that you mentioned. It makes you subconsciously want an extreme lifestyle which may not bring you joy/ reflect your personality. I want my life to reflect who I am and bring me joy. I am pursuing this life where everything is curated for me and brings me joy. Rather than the lack of it.
This whole video is great. And I love point #4| Your channel is great and you do a good job keeping things balanced and not extreme. :-)
Speaking as someone who is seen as an extreme minimalist by many, this was spot on! Thanks for sharing.
I am just starting the intentional living path. I am working on having just the right amount of things for me. However, I just love how you show clarity below the concept.
Elin, you should have called your channel "Lessism", I love that!
such a timely video. I was just feeling guilty because I did some splurging and shopped for some warmer weather clothing, and I kept telling myself that I needed it, and I realize that I’ve gone a few winters without it, and I feel like I was going backwards against the minimalism and adding more back in after I just got rid of a lot and sold. Thank you for sharing.
Really great video and interesting topic! I think for a very long time sprawling closets were “goals” and seen as something to aspire to. I think this really influences low and middle income households. Now I think the pendulum is swinging in the other direction and fast fashion brands are offering “conscious” or “natural fabric” options. I hope this makes it easier for people to see value in outfit repeating and focus on fewer higher quality items (thrifting is a great option for this) instead of abundance in this way. However, I do agree, we all have our Achilles heel and we shouldn’t suppress that. Be minimal where you can and enjoy variety where that makes sense for your lifestyle.
Very interesting point that some people just can't afford to be minimalists...never thought of it that way... I 100% agree with you on your comment about double standards around men and women... sometimes it feels like you just can't win... Thank you for another great video💜
Best thoughtful debrief on minimalism, expectations and labels I have listened to in a long time - thank you
Thank you for saying that re challenging the notion of “just get rid of stuff” I haven’t thought it through as you’ve articulated but I’ve often thought “who are these people who can just repurchase stuff “
That's an important general point about ideals that are supposed to help us, but then we feel not good enough.
My experience is that the problem is starting with a feeling of being not good enough, and then chasing ideals to try to make myself good enough. It's a self defeating strategy.
Thank you for the nuance. As a very poor person, my husband struggles with hoarding due to fears of needing something and not having it. It's something we are wrestling with.
Thank you for this thoughtful and reflective video, bc the point about any "-ism" is for that ethos to help one enjoy life more, function better, and so on...rather than competing to see who can own the least things.
I really appreciate this. I'm new to minimalism and trying to un-hack my brain and it feels like a lot of work.
I agree about double standards, in business a man can have 2 suits, 5 shirts, a belt, shoes and a tie, but women needs 5 or more unique outfits.
Yes! My husband loves to collect his grandma’s things and it brings him happiness. I can’t take that away from him.
Thank you for sharing this message about perspectives, judgement, and the realities of trying to live with less “less-ism” while having what we need. Wishing you health and a happy holiday season!
For me, the idea that works is intentionalism. I am trying to be intentional about what I choose to bring into my home while looking at what is already there, and making decisions about whether I keep or give away each item.
good video. I was thinking you could also think of when someone does something for a long time they crave the opposite. So if you're a minimalist you might crave the chaotic patterns and vice versa. You have a very calming voice by the way.
As Indonesian, i live in middle-class family and some of the minimalism concept is a thing that my family did over the years. Like buying things that i need more than i want, and my family declutter things only when it not used again and not wanna used again. My family keeping clothes from my older brother when my another brother grown up and buy new ones when they need it.
And after i hear about minimalism from white person, i shock. And asking like "why everyone should buy new wardrobe every 3 months to make capsule wardrobe?" "Why they bring the clothes in dumpster? Why they cannot recycling it?" And more question. I like the concept of minimalism, coz my mom is frugal in some categories but she still have too much things in other categories.
But, with A LOT of minimalism youtuber, why they don't minimize thing with concept "i need it, i buy it. No need = no buy" either "less is more" 😅
Thank you - This video has great content.
I think you made great points! To add my own two cents:
1) I think it's important to recognize the double standards, call them out, and push back against them. It's the only way we'll normalize things like outfit repeating. I realize there is sometimes a social cost to that, but I think it's worth it.
2) I agree that minimalism is inherently a privileged lifestyle, since you are *choosing* to have less, instead of having less by necessity. I think it's important to clarify that in conversations about minimalism. However, I think it's ok that the messages about minimalism are typically directed toward wealthier people, because when it comes to issues of overconsumption (and the climate crisis, income inequality, etc.), *wealthy people are the problem.* It's the people who overconsume, who treat clothes and other objects as disposable, that are creating more waste than the people who are keeping extra Tupperware because they can't afford to just buy more later. I just think we all need to be clear that we aren't excluding people from the minimalism conversation to discriminate.
Great video!
I think there is another point to mention here re: social background. Wealthy background, on the other hand, will help one buying an item that is expensive, but it won’t require a replacement soon enough; whereas, poor people cannot afford good quality items, therefore end up buying more. Thank you so much for the video
Minimalism is a dangerous concept. Just like having to jump on every trend and owning tons of stuff.
The production of so many items that have been produced and artificially pushed on society for so long is the ultimate problem.
There was a time when even wealthy people had fewer items than ordinary folks do now.
We may have to declutter- we have to add a few things - but the goal should be to enjoy what we have, use what we have and be able to lovingly maintain what we have.
Once you find that sweet spot life will be fine and the depression caused by too much stuff will go away.
And one last thing- if you do declutter and neaten things up be very intentional. Things in the back of your cupboard are likely far better quality than anything available now.
Enjoy life ❤
So true! I'm very concerned about giving things away that I can't afford to replace. But I also wonder if I'm using that as an excuse. Do I really need those things? I'm stuck....
So true! I have such an ideal image of minimalism with no clutter. This is nothing I could have in my home one day. So let's eliminate this idealistic images!
I want to hit "Like" a thousand times. Subscribed immediately.
Such an insightful video, thank you!
Lessism ... that is the right word.
Sure there ARE plenty more important things than your internal dialogue on minimalism, but to YOU your internal dialogue is extremely important and can shape your entire life (like whether it's a positive or negative internal dialogue. Also clearly your internal dialogue is benefiting many people or this channel would have failed long ago. The value of your internal dialogue is something you should not minimize! We appreciate your input so thank you.
I have simplified my wardrobe , and because of this, I wear the same items several times a week. I have streamlined my clothing to steer away from fast fashion. I wear classic tanks, cardigans, leggings, slacks. A few items in each category and just mix and match each day.
I have also found on RUclips we are almost encouraged to buy, buy buy.
I'm trying to not watch sponsored videos. I don't have resources or funds to afford all the pricey things that are being advertised to us.
Minimalism looks different to everyone.
I'm trying to just be more thoughtful about purchases.
I'm trying to not have a cluttered home and life.
Trying not to follow trends, and I've started thrifting more instead of paying retail.
There is definitely a double standard and women are looked at as high maintenance or basic. My goal to minimalism as a single mom is to free up more time. Less cleaning and less anxiety from clutter.
Great content. Thank you.
4:15 An Australian TV host proved the double standard about 10 years ago. The female host always got criticism for her outfits, but the male host never did. So he went for a year not only wearing the same outfit but *not even washing it*. But nobody even noticed.
(Just as well you can't smell through the TV: apparently it was rank.)
Yes the outfit repeating rule only applies to women.
I think a terrible double-standard is indeed applied to women, in terms of outfits. The question is how far you opt out of societal expectations. This will depend on your circumstances.
As a man, I have fewer expectations on me to start with. And I am in a position where I can decide to opt out from certain things, without adverse impacts. Professionally, though, there are certain expectations which would prevent extreme minimalism (I can't dress like Steve Jobs in certain circumstances). But I see the formal clothes as tools, simply necessary for situational appropriateness. I would happily dress simply all the time, but if I did that in limited professional and even more limited social situations that would diminish my effectiveness.
At this stage in life, I opt out of anything that is black tie!
I think you are so right about the clothing double standard. Just look at congress all the men have a blue suit jacket and red tie uniform worn day after day. The women all wear different things every day.
Thank you for naming the ways that minimalist content on social media can be toxic and can come from a place of privilege. I have had to stop following some leading (male, cisgender and white) minimalists specifically because they seem to lack awareness of it. Minimalist content is great when it helps us to challenge cultural views of consumption and consumerism, but we can also to listen to and trust our inner compass. Anything else is just performative minimalism and so harmful to our mental health. I'd love to see a video of you promoting some minimalists who come from a more balanced and realistic place -- it would be a great way to signal boost less privileged voices. If you're up for it of course -- you need to listen to your inner compass, too!
I didn’t decorate my office. Other female coworkers bought me decorations. A less social male coworker didn’t decorate his office, so I asked him if anyone commented on it. He said he didn’t get any negative feedback about his undecorated office.
Many here in our Minimalist journey are shifting to #ESSENTIALISM 💞
The 4 pillars will solidify U'r path
I'm really afraid this is going to sound snarky. I'm being genuine and compassionate when I say that you can choose to curate healthier friendships and environments. I've made deliberate career choices away from paths that contain that kind of superficial pressure on women. I dress professionally but I repeat outfits a lot and no one has ever said a word. And this is in a setting people would generally associate with having to dress expensively and on trend.
It is ugly behavior to shame others over clothing, hair, makeup, trends, etc. That behavior is not in line with my values, so I do not care what people like that think. I choose instead to surround myself with people who seek to lift others up instead of tearing them down.
I like saying that I like to simplify my life. Jesus follower ( Christian) is my number one description about myself.
I agree 100%
Excelente!
As a cis white woman, when I deviate from my minimal work wardrobe, my coworkers comment on how nice I look that day.
I thought minimalism RUclips video good Like all of you 5 minimalism
Totally agree - it’s why I totally bailed on the term and the pursuit of it. Simplifying looks different for everyone and shouldn’t be associated with an air of moral superiority bc of how little one owns or doesn’t own 🫠
Agreed! Thanks for the wisdom as always :)
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