Hey guys! Just wanted to let you know that my new book, Things That Matter, is finally here. I put my heart into it, and I can’t wait to share it with you. You can pick up a copy at www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/676394/things-that-matter-by-joshua-becker/
I don't think of minimalism as scarcity. I see it as not being burdened by excess. It isn't about not having stuff, but about stuff not having you. There's no minimalism police telling other minimalists how much stuff they can have. I had to decide for myself to get rid of things that were stealing my life. This crisis has reminded of the importance of being prepared for emergencies. It's good to have money in the bank and an ample supply of necessities.It's even better to be able to help others. I'm determined to have a well-stocked pantry, but I refuse to hoard stuff. Stay safe everyone!
Laurie McMillan yes! Can so relate to this! I have had years that I haven’t had much and even struggled to buy food. So happy that I know have a back up.
Been a minimalist for 30 years...it ebbs and flows with the times. I did buy some extra food and an extra bottle of detergent, cleaner and hand sanitizer. I bought an extra bag of cat food. All these years, I have now saved up after people laughed at me and called me poor, cheap, lazy, etc.. I still will live simple and live minimalist because after this is all done, I am going to travel, travel and travel some more. It was never something sold in a box with a pretty bow.
@@txspacemom765 I suppose they meant flying. Flying 12 hours a year has about the same environmental impact as eating meat or driving for a whole year. So making up for one hour on air takes a whole month of doing everything you can on every other area. At least for me, because I can't go vegan or stop using cars entirely. Of course, carbon-offsetting is an option. But I have been thinking about this lately, because of the lockdowns: I still haven't visited every traveling spot near here around my home town and home country. There are so many national parks, tourist attractions and towns I haven't been to. So I think I will make more short-distance travels next and be a tourist here in Finland for once. It may seem over-prized for a local, but if you count the travel costs saved, it's not so much. You can still go far enough to stay at a hotel and not come across people that you know. (The purpose of traveling, am I right?)
@@raapyna8544 yes! I am.only plan to travel the US after this is all over. I do have to drive too, for work, so I try my hardest to lessen my impact in other ways. I'm trying to do better! 💓
@@txspacemom765 oh, if it is domestic travel, I guess it's okay. It has much less impact than flying. I thought that you're flying from country to country because that's what my people do here all year round. Not to mention, the clothes they buy almost every week. They are also fond of eating meat buffet and buying milk teas almost everyday which placed in a big plastic cup and straw. The business model of those milk tea shop in our country should have been replaced by "bring your own cup". Haha.
I adopted minimalism due to the loss of my job and it did feel like a sacrifice but it made me realize how wasteful a life we were living and how much stuff and possessions we had that we didn't really need. I'm glad of the change my life took ,I stayed home since then and live in a smaller place and have just what we need and now I have time to focus on my children. But it was hard at first.
Letting go of unnecessary items is difficult but being without debt, is the best feeling during these difficult times. We paid off our debt in March. Imagine our relief and the blessing of not losing our jobs. God blesses all!
This is something people who have never questioned debt cannot comprehend. You are exactly right. Paying cash for a car, for a house, after years of debt were the most fun I have had maybe ever. The look on the realtor's face when we said, "We'll pay cash" was priceless. So happy for you that you're free and clear!
Wise words. May we all use this as God's gracious "reset" from our frantic, material-centric, former lives. The best things in life are right here, right now, and money has not provided them.
Corona means crown. Let us all remember that He who directs the world is the only one who deserves a real Crown. When we make a god of our possessions we have less to give to the actual God. It was a desire to focus on Him and not stuff which led me to minimalism in the first place.
Love the message. Thanks for taking the time to give it to us. Do people ever tell you that your slow pace of speech is just like Mr. Rogers? **Calming and comprehensible.** Such a respite from the typical frenzied, hyperbolic RUclipsr.
I am beyond grateful I cleared out my house last summer. With 2 adults and 3 teens living in a 1500sq ft townhome, being home all the time has been easy because the house stays so much cleaner now. I cleared out the garage to have plenty of room for a ping pong table and we have been enjoying that everyday.
@@KathyBGood I am more helpful than I used to be. I have an inner energy that is misunderstood by most. Our inner and outer world's impact our choice differently.
Back in the 2008 recession, we were living a frugal lifestyle anyways, so the recession was no big deal. Like today, we are content with what we have. I have organized my closet, kitchen cupboards and laundry room already. My attic is giving me fits and I can’t wait to tackle it. Before I buy anything I ask myself..”where is this going to go in the house.” 90% of the time, I do not buy it. Love minimalism....
I must see your videos in my kitchen, my bedroom and each area of my home in order to stay motivated. Discarding items is a challenge but a practice of great value. After few days of purging items, I get this feeling of relieve. Falling in love with this discipline. I am grateful & blessed that I found you.
New minimalist in the works here🙋🏻♀️ Trying to see into the future... asking myself, “what would you have changed??” I always answer myself, “ I wish I would’ve been more present when it counted and lived more in the moment with my family.” I tell myself, “ today is the day.” The more I think about it, the more I realize, minimalism is how that is achieved. Less materialistic clutter is equal to less mental clutter and a more intentional living. I am not picture perfect in anything.... just a work in progress.
My husband and I are striving all the time to get rid of more things that we don't need or use. We have moved from a 2 bedroom with loft penthouse to a 5th wheel, it is difficult to let go of certain items. It was so invigorating when we let go of all that stuff. Your videos have made a huge difference in our life. Thank you.
I am living minimally now since a few months ago and I am loving the benefits of doing so!! I feel so much happiness from living with less!! It truly changed me mentally and emotionally and I am so grateful and happy that I switched!! And staying at home more, helps me keep up with my room and keep after the clutter!! And it helps me not buy so much stuff!!
Be minimalist on the junk but be stocked on necessities so you won't be dependent on the grid for survival (or don't get price gouged when everyone is racing for necessities). If you are using the supplies you have on hand they are always going out. It can save time just ordering your non-perishable necessities once a year.
@Scott Shingleton 2 Propane tank is cheaper in summer? How come. More people use propane tank in summer here in NYC for barbeque party. Where do you live? Maybe in places like Texas during the summer its cheaper since its too hot to barbeque outside.
I do agree with everything you are saying, and I appreciate this video. The only thing that I will be changing going forward is I will not only keep the food I need for two weeks. I will defiantly have extra food and supplies. I don’t ever want to have to worry about getting food or TP again because people go crazy hoarding supplies. Plus it would be nice to have extra to share with those that need it.
Joshua - This whole Virus pandemic has been a wake up call for me. Made me think twice about my life and what our purpose is on this planet. I have been working on minimalism for the last two years. I would say I am 75% there!
Very well said. With the lockdown Ive only bought necessities like food, soap, toothpaste etc. Lots of stores are closed and I dont feel like buying anything. I was a minimalist even before lockdown.
It just came to me: Jesus was a minimalist. "And Jesus said to him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head." (Mat_8:20) You have absolutely inspired me to simplify and focus on what is important. Your message is important. "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal..." Jesus in Matthew 6:19, 20...The Pandemic has brought the truth of our mortality clearly in front of us. A friend, 49 years old, just died with Covid.
Amen! I am so thankful I met minimalism last June. Since then the Lord has slowly been taking me through each phase of decluttering From our stuff, to homeschool values, to our finances. I am full of gratitude that we minimalized our home before this crisis happened. We have refuge here rather than a stress pit of stuff. Thank you Joshua for always encouraging me and pointing me in the right direction.
I like what you said about intentional re-entry. My life was pretty simple before (shed the busy-ness years ago), but all this time at an even slower pace has allowed me to hear myself think, rediscover my own creativity that I had abandoned for social gatherings, and zero in on my values and true interests in ways I don't think I would have prior to this. I'd like to keep the creativity and re-discovered sources of joy after this.
This was a great blog! I started last May purging items I had kept and had not used in years and no plans to use in the future. Since doing this I find I don’t have to do major House keeping on a daily basis which has been really great during this time of staying home. (I did do a wipe down Inside and out of the kitchen cabinets and cleaned the baseboards since staying home but they were due for a good cleaning.) Now I get to sew and craft since there is no huge mess to keep cleaned up! We did not stockpile toilet paper but have lurched extra meat and frozen veggies for our meals and go get items as needed. Thanks for your help as we each learn how far Into the minimalism lifestyle we want to live.
My family has always kept a half year's worth of some foods in the freezer. We didn't really panic-buy anything. It's still early for us, of course, here in Finland, but it looks like as long as people don't hoard, food is not running out of stores any time soon.
Even during all of this, being a minimalist feels right to me. Stuff wise, even with two kids, we have everything we need. But, I’m really glad I breastfeed my baby and use cloth diapers so we will never run out! Stay safe everyone.
npigwnl I was already breastfeeding but I started using cloth diapers and cloth wipes since this pandemic. My only regret is that I didn’t start cloth diapering from the very beginning. Having those things, definitely gives u piece of mind.
Back at home in Mumbai we were minimalist as we had a large family and not because we earned less…moving to US initially I hoarded lot of stuff but soon realized that it just made me happy for a short while. Now I am a minimalist again and feel so much good about it. Josh’s channel has encouraged me continuously and love the fact that there are no ads. Thankyou & Keep it up.
Hi Joshua, thank you for another informative video. Being in Lockdown, I have saved £400 this month on petrol. I live in Scotland and need my vehicle to get to and from work :) A month before the Lockdown, I gave notice at work in order to start working from home and live a fuller life - it just came a little sooner than expected 🙂. Take care, Andrea.
Surprisingly enough, especially the time management aspect. I think people will value free time more, now that they actually have it. Or, alternatively, they don't have it at all, because there is so much work.
I love how you explain why minimalism can be a positive road. I know that I started on this road alone and now my husband is seeing the benefits of being more international so we have been able to live in this challenging time. Thank you for your hard work and that your family is blessed too.
It's quite sad ,minimalism is awesome, BUT in this virus crisis, I need stuff. At home, it's great to have everything I have because I dont have to go anywhere for a very long time. Staying at home for years will be a breeze, if need be. Overall though
I am a minimilist now, i started this journey several years ago and therefore have no more work to do thank goodness, but the work now is to be vigligant, well i have not bought anything materialistic in over a year now, personally i don't want or require anything, maybe i need a laptop but that is all i would need, i just use a smartphone for the moment, and serves all my needs i regret hoarding a little in the past, and makes me shudder to think of it, now all gone and i can breath a sigh of relief, i follow you r channel alot and thankyou josh for all the encouragement you have given me!
Thank you. That was beautifully put. When I was asked to stay home for a week before returning to work. I realized how many projects I had set aside "for when I had more time" that really had no desire to do anymore. I finally gave myself permission to move on to what is important to me now. I am giving those things to people who will have joy in my stuff and freeing up my home for my present circumstance.
Thank you! I got hooked with minimalism because I too have a lot of stuff but how do i continue with the journey when i want to help the economy? Not a lot buying later will not help the economy. Your input will help a lot.
Hello. I am french 31 yo. Just start to reorganize my way of life since 11 months now and got to tell you i like how you speak. I like what you say and how you say it. Thanks for advices. Peace. I am still trying to improve my minimalism ; )
Beautiful video and a wonderful message. I have to say that I started my journey when I got retrenched back in 2016 out of necessity. So I have been working at it since then. For me it’s been a journey. And this has just been a continuation of the journey. I am just so great full I started the journey.
I appreciate your stressing that we can’t control others. I have a number of hoarders in my family and it is so difficult to visit them and eat in their homes because of the clutter and unsanitary conditions.
Definitely using the opportunity to clean and declutter stuff I was putting off. We are quite minimalist but can go further. And we are definitely thinking about which activities etc we will take back up when this is all over. We were very 'busy' and although the kids enjoyed their clubs etc., it did place a lot of stress on family life. Good chance for thinking it all through.
Loved your post. My country has been under quarantine for a month... And we are all still going through it, and now it's been extended.... So... Wise words yours. Thank you so much for your support.
Its because of my minimalism journey that ive been able to get through this crisis...I am blessed to still have my job but my savings have helped me get thru the xtra groceries Ive had to buy...I am having to work xtra hrs and with stores schedules reaaranged I had to dip into my savings and buy xtra food to last me at least this entire month for my dog and me cause I dont know when I will be able to make another trip to the store....also minimalism provided me the shelf space ive needed to store all my food supply...im hoping minimalism will bring a new perspective to anyone that is staying home and observing their surroundings...sending safety and protection to everyone❤💚💜 Stay Strong Stay Safe Stay Healthy Stay Home
I thought about getting rid of most of my things but my grandmother's life experience taught me to hold on. Thank God! Now no job little money and I'm so glad I didn't practice minimalism! What I have I will use gratefully. Thank you grandma, I miss you.
@@ittakesavillage5461 I believe many businesses are going to fail, long term unemployment, real estate coming to a halt etc is going to get our economy very close if not in a depression. We'll need everything we have as things will be very hard if not impossible to come by. I just don't think it would be wise for me to get rid of all my hardware, sewing supplies, and whatnot. I sure hope things go back to how they were and my feeling about it was wrong. I'd really like to be wrong about this.
My father thought bread was a sacred thing (beware if you or staff handled it carelessly when packing at the groceries), candle vestiges were melted and a string used as a wick (that is 2014 peeps), yet he couldn't understand why my grandmother had a large supply of soap when she died, though my mother had diphteria as a child. Very individual, and their approaches do not work for me either. From self observation, mine seems to be depending on as little as still comfortable for me - no addictions is most vital, no pharmacies too, take care of yourself, don't depend on gas, ride a bike (treasured everyday activity now btw.), make sure food supply is within walking disctance, always be courteous to your neighbourhood - they(!) are your best crisis stock, make sure your clothes and shoes are high quality, and, as of this week I'm down to two only chairs, no visitors for as long as I can afford the rent. There is no bomb dropping on me, every crisis is different, make sure you can ADAPT - for me holding, just by the term, seems to be the opposite.
Several years ago I lost all of my belongs. Furniture, clothing, linens, everything. But one day i woke up and I was happy. I realized at that moment that things don’t make you happy. That the turning point for me on my journey to being a minimalist
Really powerful message, I love that you say we need to make intentional decisions in returning to normal life when all this is over. With this extra time at home I've had so much time to look at my belongings that I've collected over the years and found so much guilt in unnecessary purchases. I had to reflect on my spending habits I've developed over the last 10 years. I have not taken a vacation but I have accumulated thousands of dollars in things, a large majority of which I'd much rather not have any longer. This is a time for renewal!
This Quarantine is making me organise & ditch alot of stuff in the house .. i'm finding it easier to transition into minimalism because i cannot stand all the stuff around me
Thank you some much Mr Joshua Becker! Being forced into minimalism, then the effect that can have long term... I was just pondering this. I have trouble because I may not want something, but I need it.... Thank you for validating that very important point! Thank you for all your videos! Much love, gratitude and peace!
Its been nice to actually have the time to cook and care for yourself better. To have the time to care for your home rather than running around so much. Having time to rest with a staycation. I have simplified my diet and my possessions. This time has given me the ability to ask myself many questions about how I wish to spend my time whether at work or at home. I am glad that I was in the early stages of minimalism as I was already learning to live with less as a choice.
Minimalism is a journey that will take time. I've been on it for the past 4 years. Not at my destination, but a lot of change has taken place. Good and bad, but mostly good.
In times like these we have more time to evaluate how we live our lives. Living for things or experiences. After a major surgery and bedridden I was able to look at things surrounding me in bed and you know, none were as important as my family time and health. Out that stuff went and have not missed it! Cleaning is quick and more time for family!
You know, I also wondered whether this situation will make it easier for more people to get permission to work from home. Potential abuse of that privilege will be a concern, but maybe people with certain domestic responsibilities (e.g., caring for a sick family member or young children) will now face less resistance when they ask to work from home temporarily or for part of their workweek.
I ABSOLUTELY agree with what you say on your channel!!!! Minimalism should be something that some wants to do because of desire and not need!!!! I love minimalism because I already have enough on my mind and I do not need or want additional clutter in my 1 bedroom apartment which is almost empty by default to the benefits that I have seen!!
My father survived the Great Depression and he hoarded things all of his life. I understand him better after going through the current situation. I have never had a tendency to hoard but I am trying to minimize my possessions. It is a work in progress. One thing I minimized before this pandemic was the amount of food and cleaning supplies I kept on hand. That is the only thing I regret minimizing because people have lost their minds buying these things and they are so hard to find. It gives me a feeling of insecurity to not know if I will be able to get something like that I need.
I had managed to minimize those 2 categories as well and it has been difficult not being able to get certain items especially knowing a year ago I had extra.
I'm a minimalist in every area EXCEPT where food is concerned. That is a need, not a want. I don't feel any less 'minimalistic' for it. Having food on hand is not the same as having 30 spare towels.
I too had parents that were both teenagers during the great depression. My Dad was born in 1917 and my Mom in 1920 and I had 4 or 5 pickup loads of just plastic containers from things they had bought because they might be useful. That generation never threw anything away again, they washed it & stored it cause they might need it for something sometime. I believe that to minimize & be frugal on cleaning supplies, shampoo, conditioner & lotion. You keep a shopping list, go to town on payday, and when you take the spare unopened bottle out to use you put that item on the list. And with this process you have a full bottle in the cupboard or close to full bottle in use when the hoarders buy it all. Minimalism to me means getting rid of things I don't wear or use. Replacing the rusty old skillet with a new shiny one is fine you will love & use it. Junk drawers are bad bad bad, that's where you throw everything & you don't use anything & you have no clue what's in there.
Excellent video Mr. BECKER. I agree with every single point you have made. I too, am of the opinion that while everyone needs minimalism, they should choose it themselves and not be forced into it. Great content. Thank you for enlightening us wid your wisdom. Stay safe.
I’ve been practicing minimalism for a while but I have become even more conscious after this of the waste that I don’t need. For example, I couldn’t find paper towels or paper plates, I bought a bunch of microfiber cloths off amazon and they are my new reusable paper towel, that’s one less thing I’m wasting. We used paper plates a lot for convenience, I bought some Corelle plates that are super lightweight and durable to use instead. I can’t go to the store as often anymore so finding things that aren’t use and rebuy frequently are more important to me. It kind of goes along with living more intentionally.
Wow, I've seen several of your videos and never commented before. This one really struck me. It was so insightful-- thank you for taking the time to share these thoughts.
Life seemed to carry on in a predictable manner, then totally capsized. True security is a myth - all it takes is one event to upend everything. Best to be simple, minimal. Less one has to balance, therefore minimalism will always be a prudent lifestyle choice.
As I watch minimalism videos .. I realise I’m a minimalist to the core ... not with material stuff .. but with the mind stuff too .. like excess in mood swings / thoughts etc... but the quarantine has forced me to hoard food materials & essential stuff .. & am finding it very hard to cope with that
I started watching you a month before this all started and I was really getting onto your message. I’m a bit of a hoarder. I said, “I’ve had these 32 N95 masks for eight years. I’ll never need them.” I will never throw out another item in my life!
I had been wanting to declutter and minimise for years and the pandemic gave me the time and space to properly do this which I am so grateful for 🙏 it has allowed me to create a simpler and more intentional life where I spend my time on things that bring me joy, rather than on maintaining all the stuff I used to own!
I started minimalism by accident. Started by starting to declutter and tidy out rooms. Then started watching videos on minimalism and made me think more of my possessions. I'm no where near perfect and probably a lot would argue I'm not a minimalist. But it's still a work in progress and happy and content with how it's going.
I appreciate the points that Joshua has made here. Full of wisdom and great insight. I think when people say that minimalism " is showing its' bad side" now, as in this current situation, they do not truly understand what minimalism really is or means. Stocking up and hoarding extra supplies out of fear is buying into the idea that we need to be ahead of everyone else in acquiring so-called daily necessities to somehow be "prepared." This belief provides a false sense of security. One bottle of shampoo or one bar of soap will last for months and months. Too many things, whatever they might be, just are not necessary. As good stewards, I really believe that we should not take more than our share. We should not lose our confidence to give to others in need. We should also, not be afraid to ask others when we might need or wish to borrow something. It seems to me that fear is the root of many people's actions. Minimalism allows us to step back and live within our means. Live without fear! Living with less really does give us more. We need to trust that God will provide for us as we practice wisdom and common sense. It might feel like we are out of our comfort zone not to have duplicates and extras, but truly, we will see reward. When we bless others, we in turn, will receive much blessing back. To everything there is a season, and this current season will not last for forever.
I would also argue that a person can still call themself a minimalist even if they like to keep a stocked pantry or linen closet. For some it is reassuring to always have that next bottle or bag waiting when the first runs out. I think that the conscious consumption of only what we need and love is the definition of minimalism. It doesn't mean lack. It means plenty.
@@kimberlybosman3258 I do agree with you on that, very well stated! For example, I bake often so I do not like to run out of flour, sugar, etc I like your definition of minimalism.
😊 I should share that my words are adapted from another minimalist named Zara Fagan. She promotes minimalist homeschooling, but it is where I learned the idea of what you need and love and to turn enough into plenty. For the sake of credit where credit is due❤
Bravo! So inspiring and uplifting. We always have the possibility AND the opportunity to reinvent ourselves and our lives. What a great way to change the world, by starting with ourselves. I value that word “intentional.” Thank you for this 🦋
Such good thoughts! this time has totally helped me to see what I need and what I don't need! I'm using this time to do some more decluttering and paring down.
There is no denying that this is a terrible virus and so many people have been affected negatively..... But I do agree that there too will be a lot of positive changes to come out of this as well. Your videos are always so well worded and easy to understand. Thank you.
Love your content, I think this situation is pushing us minimalist even further. Needing less and less things everyday, living even more a simpler life than before.
I hope many people in my country will also accept minimalism lifestyle since we have more than 20 typhoons yearly,occasional earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and this unforeseen pandemic I have shifted in this kind of lifestyle to be practical and stress- free..love from PH
The Covid 19 Crisis makes clear for me, that there are no easy answers. Less is not always better. For example: Now that the Gyms are closed here in Germany for more than one month, I am glad that I posses a stationary bike and a weight bench, so I can still exercise. The same with the hair stylists, closed for weeks here, but with my beard trimmer I can cut my hair! A hardcore minimalist wouldn´t own these things!
Our roof was fixed 3 years ago. I never went onto the roof until today. I was shocked there were 5 big pieces of rotting wood and a tarp teeming with bugs! I spent an hour clearing it up. Being at home due to lock down inspired me to declutter, starting from most lived places to least (the roof)
Now i thank myself for having not followed minimalism... i always knew that it is important to have a reserve because you never know what the future is... we gave for granted that as we need something we can GO OUT AND BUY IT... now i am so happy i built a big house with a big garden... so i can walk in open air without mask and gloves... to have all my family and i can need (within human possibilities)... i think that now we understand the beauty of our possessions, that their sense is to help in our life... everything has a sense, a good and a bad side and now minimalism shows its bad side, in other times it was a good way of life, not now. Just in my opinion.
I was already minimizing when our situation changed suddenly - now our nephew is moved into our office and our office is squeezed into our bedroom! But I’m seeing the opportunity to accelerate our downsize before we buy our first house so that we can start off with a clutterfree and calm home. I also see how cutting expenses and having a modest lifestyle can make it easier to start a business and become financially free - that’s a BIG why for us!
life and death circumstances = evaluating what's truly important. i'm glad i've been a minimalist for a number of years now. the current circumstances have allowed me to focus on my health, nutrition, and rediscover indoor hobbies that i once had much more time for (jigsaw puzzles, reading, baking). trying to focus on the positives during this time-including saving money and paying off nearly half of our student loan debt (on one income).
This pandemic ... with lockdown & social isolation has been very difficult yet, here I am. Reevaluating my whole life & lifestyle. Now stuck at home more it has been an eye opener. I started buying crap online ... ( a lot of it is substandard) ... now there are these things added to existing content. Now later into the year, later into this pandemic, I realize this global crisis is going to drag on way longer than initially expected. I’m here to give thanks to the higher powers of the universe for helping me find you, and helping me reevaluate my life. As I stare at all these things, I realize how much more important the experiences with friends & loved ones are.
I found myself living check by check so I went into a frugal state and I started storing a lot of stuff and realized it was overwhelming me. So I started looking into minimalism and I feel better still working on getting ride of more things I don't love or need. I raised my credit report pay off my credit cards and now I'm able to work part time which helps my mental state.
I liked minimalism before this... but now we NEED so much more! I wish we kept more games and puzzles, more books and craft supplies. I used to say to the kids “oh we can go to the library” not any more. I used to say “we don’t need more games we can visit friends” not any more. It’s cold and snowy in our part of the world. Limited outdoor play, no public spaces, no visiting family or friends. We have never bought so much before in such a short amount of time. Craft supplies, used video games, puzzles, etc. We have used it all too! Nothing has been wasted! But goods are hard to come by now with limited trade and transport between countries. Honestly I wish we kept more from before we decided on minimalism.
Libraries and museums and parks will be open again soon. Families with cabinets full of games and puzzles and books are also complaining about not having anything to do. This season will pass.
Joshua Becker it will be 40 days tomorrow here and our school is planning to close until January. I wish we could exchange games and puzzles among friends like some are having success with. It’s just so frustrating.
Thank you, Joshua. I love that you continue to analyze and look for underlying ideas about our behaviors and our society - and that you are vocalizing them for a global audience.
I told someone that i want to do this. They looked and me and laughed. i laugh at them because I have money. I am not doing it because I can't buy shit I don't need.
Oh man I have been decluttering and trashing things I never thought I would before 😂 This was after I thought I was done decluttering and the thought of having more clothes, purses, make up etc makes me physically sick.😭 I'm spending money on Netflix and eating out etc. Not Things but experiences❤ A great vid as always. Ty friend 😀
Surely the question should be, how will this current event effect our lives and relationships with other humans? What makes a house a home is the people you live with, not the contents or lack of in your house. Minimalism is just a tool to manage stuff, it’s not the answer to survival. We need relationships and community to get through this.
MyImaginationsUk Please remember there are many of us who live alone...in our HOME. Please rethink your "what makes a house a home is the people you live with". Each of us decides what makes our home, even those of us who live alone.
@@tioh2001 even when you live alone, you still share your home with people you love when you invite them over. The point of my comment was to show that relationships are more important than things!
Made this decision on my own and I really enjoy simplify my life you are very helpful about minimalist lifestyle and simple living and living with less pessions
Don't forget, more connection. When you're not competing with people in the game of possessions, status and gaining more, you find you want to connect either as a way of inspiring and sharing or just that the things you pursued no longer create anger because you no longer care so you become more open to connecting.
#5 is a huge point for me. I’ve been contemplating how to keep this “slow” in my life when we return to normal. My job has always been anti-WFH (even tho we are expected to WFH after hours and weekends). But now in this situation they have allowed it. I find I concentrate better and have more motivation WFH, but once it returns to normal, I’m sure they will return to their anti-WFH stance.
Retired for 20 years. I only keep what gives me joy. In the new abnormal, what now gives me extra joy is a nice high stack of Charmin strong (with the red bears) potty paper. Blue bears come on the soft Charmin. Check it out folks. 😻
Hey guys! Just wanted to let you know that my new book, Things That Matter, is finally here. I put my heart into it, and I can’t wait to share it with you. You can pick up a copy at www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/676394/things-that-matter-by-joshua-becker/
I don't think of minimalism as scarcity. I see it as not being burdened by excess. It isn't about not having stuff, but about stuff not having you. There's no minimalism police telling other minimalists how much stuff they can have. I had to decide for myself to get rid of things that were stealing my life.
This crisis has reminded of the importance of being prepared for emergencies. It's good to have money in the bank and an ample supply of necessities.It's even better to be able to help others. I'm determined to have a well-stocked pantry, but I refuse to hoard stuff.
Stay safe everyone!
Laurie McMillan yes! Can so relate to this! I have had years that I haven’t had much and even struggled to buy food.
So happy that I know have a back up.
Well said!!!! 👏
Laurie McMillan very well put! Thanks!
Excellent - thx
Couldn't have put it better!
Been a minimalist for 30 years...it ebbs and flows with the times. I did buy some extra food and an extra bottle of detergent, cleaner and hand sanitizer. I bought an extra bag of cat food. All these years, I have now saved up after people laughed at me and called me poor, cheap, lazy, etc.. I still will live simple and live minimalist because after this is all done, I am going to travel, travel and travel some more. It was never something sold in a box with a pretty bow.
How travel is minimalism? It has a huge environmental impact than any other material things.
@@cassandra2646 everything we do impacts the planet. I do try to plant a few trees each year and live as simple and less impactful as I can.
@@txspacemom765 I suppose they meant flying. Flying 12 hours a year has about the same environmental impact as eating meat or driving for a whole year. So making up for one hour on air takes a whole month of doing everything you can on every other area. At least for me, because I can't go vegan or stop using cars entirely.
Of course, carbon-offsetting is an option.
But I have been thinking about this lately, because of the lockdowns: I still haven't visited every traveling spot near here around my home town and home country. There are so many national parks, tourist attractions and towns I haven't been to. So I think I will make more short-distance travels next and be a tourist here in Finland for once. It may seem over-prized for a local, but if you count the travel costs saved, it's not so much. You can still go far enough to stay at a hotel and not come across people that you know. (The purpose of traveling, am I right?)
@@raapyna8544 yes! I am.only plan to travel the US after this is all over. I do have to drive too, for work, so I try my hardest to lessen my impact in other ways. I'm trying to do better! 💓
@@txspacemom765 oh, if it is domestic travel, I guess it's okay. It has much less impact than flying. I thought that you're flying from country to country because that's what my people do here all year round.
Not to mention, the clothes they buy almost every week. They are also fond of eating meat buffet and buying milk teas almost everyday which placed in a big plastic cup and straw. The business model of those milk tea shop in our country should have been replaced by "bring your own cup". Haha.
I adopted minimalism due to the loss of my job and it did feel like a sacrifice but it made me realize how wasteful a life we were living and how much stuff and possessions we had that we didn't really need. I'm glad of the change my life took ,I stayed home since then and live in a smaller place and have just what we need and now I have time to focus on my children. But it was hard at first.
Letting go of unnecessary items is difficult but being without debt, is the best feeling during these difficult times. We paid off our debt in March. Imagine our relief and the blessing of not losing our jobs. God blesses all!
This is something people who have never questioned debt cannot comprehend. You are exactly right. Paying cash for a car, for a house, after years of debt were the most fun I have had maybe ever. The look on the realtor's face when we said, "We'll pay cash" was priceless. So happy for you that you're free and clear!
Wise words. May we all use this as God's gracious "reset" from our frantic, material-centric, former lives. The best things in life are right here, right now, and money has not provided them.
Robyn Smith So true Robyn
I just felt the world will be somehow stopped and everyone has to figure out their lives and lifestyles
Corona means crown. Let us all remember that He who directs the world is the only one who deserves a real Crown.
When we make a god of our possessions we have less to give to the actual God. It was a desire to focus on Him and not stuff which led me to minimalism in the first place.
Robyn Smith amen to that 🙏🙏
@@rosezingleman5007 well said, and Amen! To HIM be the glory forever and ever!
Love the message. Thanks for taking the time to give it to us. Do people ever tell you that your slow pace of speech is just like Mr. Rogers? **Calming and comprehensible.** Such a respite from the typical frenzied, hyperbolic RUclipsr.
Very valuable focus. Thank you.
When I played one of his videos to my kid, she adjusted the speed to x1,75 and it sounded like a Ben Shapiro video.
I am beyond grateful I cleared out my house last summer. With 2 adults and 3 teens living in a 1500sq ft townhome, being home all the time has been easy because the house stays so much cleaner now. I cleared out the garage to have plenty of room for a ping pong table and we have been enjoying that everyday.
The less you have, the less you'll have to clean.
My thoughts exactly
Diane R exactly why I like having a small place lol
The more you can help someone else clean/journey into minimalism?😏
@@KathyBGood I am more helpful than I used to be. I have an inner energy that is misunderstood by most. Our inner and outer world's impact our choice differently.
Yes!!!
Back in the 2008 recession, we were living a frugal lifestyle anyways, so the recession was no big deal. Like today, we are content with what we have. I have organized my closet, kitchen cupboards and laundry room already. My attic is giving me fits and I can’t wait to tackle it.
Before I buy anything I ask myself..”where is this going to go in the house.” 90% of the time, I do not buy it. Love minimalism....
I must see your videos in my kitchen, my bedroom and each area of my home in order to stay motivated. Discarding items is a challenge but a practice of great value. After few days of purging items, I get this feeling of relieve. Falling in love with this discipline. I am grateful & blessed that I found you.
New minimalist in the works here🙋🏻♀️
Trying to see into the future... asking myself, “what would you have changed??”
I always answer myself, “ I wish I would’ve been more present when it counted and lived more in the moment with my family.”
I tell myself, “ today is the day.”
The more I think about it, the more I realize, minimalism is how that is achieved. Less materialistic clutter is equal to less mental clutter and a more intentional living. I am not picture perfect in anything.... just a work in progress.
We are Minalists but going to keep my stock pile of food for my family for emergencies or job losses
My husband and I are striving all the time to get rid of more things that we don't need or use. We have moved from a 2 bedroom with loft penthouse to a 5th wheel, it is difficult to let go of certain items. It was so invigorating when we let go of all that stuff. Your videos have made a huge difference in our life. Thank you.
I am living minimally now since a few months ago and I am loving the benefits of doing so!! I feel so much happiness from living with less!! It truly changed me mentally and emotionally and I am so grateful and happy that I switched!! And staying at home more, helps me keep up with my room and keep after the clutter!! And it helps me not buy so much stuff!!
Be minimalist on the junk but be stocked on necessities so you won't be dependent on the grid for survival (or don't get price gouged when everyone is racing for necessities). If you are using the supplies you have on hand they are always going out. It can save time just ordering your non-perishable necessities once a year.
Americans are so un-trusting of the society.
@Scott Shingleton 2 Propane tank is cheaper in summer? How come. More people use propane tank in summer here in NYC for barbeque party. Where do you live? Maybe in places like Texas during the summer its cheaper since its too hot to barbeque outside.
"Necessities" is subjective. Americans were standing in line for toilet paper the way much of the world stands in line for food. We are spoiled.
I do agree with everything you are saying, and I appreciate this video. The only thing that I will be changing going forward is I will not only keep the food I need for two weeks. I will defiantly have extra food and supplies. I don’t ever want to have to worry about getting food or TP again because people go crazy hoarding supplies. Plus it would be nice to have extra to share with those that need it.
Joshua - This whole Virus pandemic has been a wake up call for me. Made me think twice about my life and what our purpose is on this planet. I have been working on minimalism for the last two years. I would say I am 75% there!
This video really helped center me as I try desperately to make my house a home for people and less a place for stuff. It refueled my why
Not a better way of living, its the best way to live and the wisest way as well. Thanks always.
Very well said. With the lockdown Ive only bought necessities like food, soap, toothpaste etc. Lots of stores are closed and I dont feel like buying anything. I was a minimalist even before lockdown.
I'm thinking that many of us are home declutting. When the thrift stores open they will have lines of donaters ;)
Yes indeed.
That’s going to be the problem - too many donations at once means a lot will go to landfill if the stores don’t have enough storage space.
It just came to me: Jesus was a minimalist. "And Jesus said to him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head." (Mat_8:20) You have absolutely inspired me to simplify and focus on what is important. Your message is important. "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal..." Jesus in Matthew 6:19, 20...The Pandemic has brought the truth of our mortality clearly in front of us. A friend, 49 years old, just died with Covid.
Amen! I am so thankful I met minimalism last June. Since then the Lord has slowly been taking me through each phase of decluttering From our stuff, to homeschool values, to our finances. I am full of gratitude that we minimalized our home before this crisis happened. We have refuge here rather than a stress pit of stuff. Thank you Joshua for always encouraging me and pointing me in the right direction.
I like what you said about intentional re-entry. My life was pretty simple before (shed the busy-ness years ago), but all this time at an even slower pace has allowed me to hear myself think, rediscover my own creativity that I had abandoned for social gatherings, and zero in on my values and true interests in ways I don't think I would have prior to this. I'd like to keep the creativity and re-discovered sources of joy after this.
This was a great blog! I started last May purging items I had kept and had not used in years and no plans to use in the future. Since doing this I find I don’t have to do major House keeping on a daily basis which has been really great during this time of staying home. (I did do a wipe down Inside and out of the kitchen cabinets and cleaned the baseboards since staying home but they were due for a good cleaning.) Now I get to sew and craft since there is no huge mess to keep cleaned up! We did not stockpile toilet paper but have lurched extra meat and frozen veggies for our meals and go get items as needed. Thanks for your help as we each learn how far Into the minimalism lifestyle we want to live.
I’m a minimalist, but you know I’ll have a two month supply of everything I could need after this is all over
Brad Vincent same. This has really made me rethink the amount of food and staples I keep on hand.
Brad Vincent yes we’ve doing the same this has learned us to keep a stock pile of food incase of emergencies or job loss
Absolutely! A stockpile is important!
My family has always kept a half year's worth of some foods in the freezer. We didn't really panic-buy anything. It's still early for us, of course, here in Finland, but it looks like as long as people don't hoard, food is not running out of stores any time soon.
terry651000 we’re doing it for job loss as well
Even during all of this, being a minimalist feels right to me. Stuff wise, even with two kids, we have everything we need. But, I’m really glad I breastfeed my baby and use cloth diapers so we will never run out!
Stay safe everyone.
Same! 😊
npigwnl I was already breastfeeding but I started using cloth diapers and cloth wipes since this pandemic. My only regret is that I didn’t start cloth diapering from the very beginning. Having those things, definitely gives u piece of mind.
cloth diapers? 🤢🤮
Back at home in Mumbai we were minimalist as we had a large family and not because we earned less…moving to US initially I hoarded lot of stuff but soon realized that it just made me happy for a short while. Now I am a minimalist again and feel so much good about it. Josh’s channel has encouraged me continuously and love the fact that there are no ads. Thankyou & Keep it up.
Hi Joshua, thank you for another informative video. Being in Lockdown, I have saved £400 this month on petrol. I live in Scotland and need my vehicle to get to and from work :) A month before the Lockdown, I gave notice at work in order to start working from home and live a fuller life - it just came a little sooner than expected 🙂. Take care, Andrea.
Andrea woohoo a fellow Scot 👋
If we thought minimalism was getting popular before it’s probably going to becoming a common practice
Nick Scuderi - RealLife Money yup
Surprisingly enough, especially the time management aspect. I think people will value free time more, now that they actually have it. Or, alternatively, they don't have it at all, because there is so much work.
I love how you explain why minimalism can be a positive road. I know that I started on this road alone and now my husband is seeing the benefits of being more international so we have been able to live in this challenging time. Thank you for your hard work and that your family is blessed too.
It's quite sad ,minimalism is awesome, BUT in this virus crisis, I need stuff. At home, it's great to have everything I have because I dont have to go anywhere for a very long time. Staying at home for years will be a breeze, if need be. Overall though
I am a minimilist now, i started this journey several years ago and therefore have no more work to do thank goodness, but the work now is to be vigligant, well i have not bought anything materialistic in over a year now, personally i don't want or require anything, maybe i need a laptop but that is all i would need, i just use a smartphone for the moment, and serves all my needs i regret hoarding a little in the past, and makes me shudder to think of it, now all gone and i can breath a sigh of relief, i follow you r channel alot and thankyou josh for all the encouragement you have given me!
Amen Mr. Joshua. This is living that allows us to fulfill our God ordained purpose. Thank you.
Thank you. That was beautifully put. When I was asked to stay home for a week before returning to work. I realized how many projects I had set aside "for when I had more time" that really had no desire to do anymore. I finally gave myself permission to move on to what is important to me now. I am giving those things to people who will have joy in my stuff and freeing up my home for my present circumstance.
You are truly a gift. Such wonderful video. Sometimes we are forced to have to slow down and view what is in front of us and it isn’t possessions. 🙏🏻
Thank you! I got hooked with minimalism because I too have a lot of stuff but how do i continue with the journey when i want to help the economy? Not a lot buying later will not help the economy. Your input will help a lot.
Hello. I am french 31 yo. Just start to reorganize my way of life since 11 months now and got to tell you i like how you speak. I like what you say and how you say it. Thanks for advices. Peace.
I am still trying to improve my minimalism ; )
Beautiful video and a wonderful message. I have to say that I started my journey when I got retrenched back in 2016 out of necessity. So I have been working at it since then. For me it’s been a journey. And this has just been a continuation of the journey. I am just so great full I started the journey.
I appreciate your stressing that we can’t control others. I have a number of hoarders in my family and it is so difficult to visit them and eat in their homes because of the clutter and unsanitary conditions.
Definitely using the opportunity to clean and declutter stuff I was putting off. We are quite minimalist but can go further. And we are definitely thinking about which activities etc we will take back up when this is all over. We were very 'busy' and although the kids enjoyed their clubs etc., it did place a lot of stress on family life. Good chance for thinking it all through.
Loved your post. My country has been under quarantine for a month... And we are all still going through it, and now it's been extended.... So... Wise words yours. Thank you so much for your support.
I spent the bank holiday weekend decluttering (sorting through my kitchen cupboards) and tidying up.
I was already planning on leaving the city and having a farm, now I'm even more ready !
I agree. It just seems right.
Its because of my minimalism journey that ive been able to get through this crisis...I am blessed to still have my job but my savings have helped me get thru the xtra groceries Ive had to buy...I am having to work xtra hrs and with stores schedules reaaranged I had to dip into my savings and buy xtra food to last me at least this entire month for my dog and me cause I dont know when I will be able to make another trip to the store....also minimalism provided me the shelf space ive needed to store all my food supply...im hoping minimalism will bring a new perspective to anyone that is staying home and observing their surroundings...sending safety and protection to everyone❤💚💜
Stay Strong
Stay Safe
Stay Healthy
Stay Home
I thought about getting rid of most of my things but my grandmother's life experience taught me to hold on. Thank God! Now no job little money and I'm so glad I didn't practice minimalism! What I have I will use gratefully. Thank you grandma, I miss you.
Dana Lynn so confused about your comment. Being minimalist doesn’t mean not be prepared for an emergency.
@@ittakesavillage5461 I believe many businesses are going to fail, long term unemployment, real estate coming to a halt etc is going to get our economy very close if not in a depression. We'll need everything we have as things will be very hard if not impossible to come by. I just don't think it would be wise for me to get rid of all my hardware, sewing supplies, and whatnot. I sure hope things go back to how they were and my feeling about it was wrong. I'd really like to be wrong about this.
My father thought bread was a sacred thing (beware if you or staff handled it carelessly when packing at the groceries), candle vestiges were melted and a string used as a wick (that is 2014 peeps), yet he couldn't understand why my grandmother had a large supply of soap when she died, though my mother had diphteria as a child. Very individual, and their approaches do not work for me either. From self observation, mine seems to be depending on as little as still comfortable for me - no addictions is most vital, no pharmacies too, take care of yourself, don't depend on gas, ride a bike (treasured everyday activity now btw.), make sure food supply is within walking disctance, always be courteous to your neighbourhood - they(!) are your best crisis stock, make sure your clothes and shoes are high quality, and, as of this week I'm down to two only chairs, no visitors for as long as I can afford the rent. There is no bomb dropping on me, every crisis is different, make sure you can ADAPT - for me holding, just by the term, seems to be the opposite.
Several years ago I lost all of my belongs. Furniture, clothing, linens, everything. But one day i woke up and I was happy. I realized at that moment that things don’t make you happy. That the turning point for me on my journey to being a minimalist
Really powerful message, I love that you say we need to make intentional decisions in returning to normal life when all this is over. With this extra time at home I've had so much time to look at my belongings that I've collected over the years and found so much guilt in unnecessary purchases. I had to reflect on my spending habits I've developed over the last 10 years. I have not taken a vacation but I have accumulated thousands of dollars in things, a large majority of which I'd much rather not have any longer. This is a time for renewal!
This Quarantine is making me organise & ditch alot of stuff in the house .. i'm finding it easier to transition into minimalism because i cannot stand all the stuff around me
Me too!
Just want to mention that this is an excellent spot to film in, Joshua... great light~
Thank you some much Mr Joshua Becker! Being forced into minimalism, then the effect that can have long term... I was just pondering this. I have trouble because I may not want something, but I need it.... Thank you for validating that very important point! Thank you for all your videos! Much love, gratitude and peace!
i had to move out of my room temporarily and it took me less than 10 minutes because i have so little possessions haha (minus my bed)
@@11p22e33t44e unfortunately, its because i just can’t wait to disappear from this world and die :’)
I still can't believe what we are living 😔
What the world is living !!!
Well, as the old saying goes, "Just wait...you haven't seen anything yet...."
Its been nice to actually have the time to cook and care for yourself better. To have the time to care for your home rather than running around so much. Having time to rest with a staycation. I have simplified my diet and my possessions. This time has given me the ability to ask myself many questions about how I wish to spend my time whether at work or at home. I am glad that I was in the early stages of minimalism as I was already learning to live with less as a choice.
Minimalism is a journey that will take time. I've been on it for the past 4 years. Not at my destination, but a lot of change has taken place. Good and bad, but mostly good.
In times like these we have more time to evaluate how we live our lives. Living for things or experiences. After a major surgery and bedridden I was able to look at things surrounding me in bed and you know, none were as important as my family time and health. Out that stuff went and have not missed it! Cleaning is quick and more time for family!
You know, I also wondered whether this situation will make it easier for more people to get permission to work from home. Potential abuse of that privilege will be a concern, but maybe people with certain domestic responsibilities (e.g., caring for a sick family member or young children) will now face less resistance when they ask to work from home temporarily or for part of their workweek.
I ABSOLUTELY agree with what you say on your channel!!!! Minimalism should be something that some wants to do because of desire and not need!!!! I love minimalism because I already have enough on my mind and I do not need or want additional clutter in my 1 bedroom apartment which is almost empty by default to the benefits that I have seen!!
My father survived the Great Depression and he hoarded things all of his life. I understand him better after going through the current situation. I have never had a tendency to hoard but I am trying to minimize my possessions. It is a work in progress. One thing I minimized before this pandemic was the amount of food and cleaning supplies I kept on hand. That is the only thing I regret minimizing because people have lost their minds buying these things and they are so hard to find. It gives me a feeling of insecurity to not know if I will be able to get something like that I need.
I had managed to minimize those 2 categories as well and it has been difficult not being able to get certain items especially knowing a year ago I had extra.
I'm a minimalist in every area EXCEPT where food is concerned. That is a need, not a want. I don't feel any less 'minimalistic' for it. Having food on hand is not the same as having 30 spare towels.
I too had parents that were both teenagers during the great depression. My Dad was born in 1917 and my Mom in 1920 and I had 4 or 5 pickup loads of just plastic containers from things they had bought because they might be useful. That generation never threw anything away again, they washed it & stored it cause they might need it for something sometime. I believe that to minimize & be frugal on cleaning supplies, shampoo, conditioner & lotion. You keep a shopping list, go to town on payday, and when you take the spare unopened bottle out to use you put that item on the list. And with this process you have a full bottle in the cupboard or close to full bottle in use when the hoarders buy it all. Minimalism to me means getting rid of things I don't wear or use. Replacing the rusty old skillet with a new shiny one is fine you will love & use it. Junk drawers are bad bad bad, that's where you throw everything & you don't use anything & you have no clue what's in there.
Your idea transcends to many areas.. I agree that we need to be intentional and focused on things and people who mean most to us.
Excellent video Mr. BECKER. I agree with every single point you have made. I too, am of the opinion that while everyone needs minimalism, they should choose it themselves and not be forced into it. Great content. Thank you for enlightening us wid your wisdom. Stay safe.
I’ve been practicing minimalism for a while but I have become even more conscious after this of the waste that I don’t need. For example, I couldn’t find paper towels or paper plates, I bought a bunch of microfiber cloths off amazon and they are my new reusable paper towel, that’s one less thing I’m wasting. We used paper plates a lot for convenience, I bought some Corelle plates that are super lightweight and durable to use instead. I can’t go to the store as often anymore so finding things that aren’t use and rebuy frequently are more important to me. It kind of goes along with living more intentionally.
Wow, I've seen several of your videos and never commented before. This one really struck me. It was so insightful-- thank you for taking the time to share these thoughts.
Life seemed to carry on in a predictable manner, then totally capsized. True security is a myth - all it takes is one event to upend everything. Best to be simple, minimal. Less one has to balance, therefore minimalism will always be a prudent lifestyle choice.
As I watch minimalism videos .. I realise I’m a minimalist to the core ... not with material stuff .. but with the mind stuff too .. like excess in mood swings / thoughts etc... but the quarantine has forced me to hoard food materials & essential stuff .. & am finding it very hard to cope with that
I started watching you a month before this all started and I was really getting onto your message. I’m a bit of a hoarder. I said, “I’ve had these 32 N95 masks for eight years. I’ll never need them.”
I will never throw out another item in my life!
I probably wouldn't remember I had them and if I did remember I wouldn't be able to find them.
David Mitchell That’s an organization issue.
Oh wow! Now, that was tragic timing.
You should donate them to the doctors or nurses in you area that really need them right now.
Irene Hinojosa I did. Minus two.
I had been wanting to declutter and minimise for years and the pandemic gave me the time and space to properly do this which I am so grateful for 🙏 it has allowed me to create a simpler and more intentional life where I spend my time on things that bring me joy, rather than on maintaining all the stuff I used to own!
I started minimalism by accident. Started by starting to declutter and tidy out rooms. Then started watching videos on minimalism and made me think more of my possessions. I'm no where near perfect and probably a lot would argue I'm not a minimalist. But it's still a work in progress and happy and content with how it's going.
I appreciate the points that Joshua has made here. Full of wisdom and great insight.
I think when people say that minimalism " is showing its' bad side" now, as in this current situation, they do not truly understand what minimalism really is or means. Stocking up and hoarding extra supplies out of fear is buying into the idea that we need to be ahead of everyone else in acquiring so-called daily necessities to somehow be "prepared." This belief provides a false sense of security. One bottle of shampoo or one bar of soap will last for months and months. Too many things, whatever they might be, just are not necessary. As good stewards, I really believe that we should not take more than our share. We should not lose our confidence to give to others in need. We should also, not be afraid to ask others when we might need or wish to borrow something. It seems to me that fear is the root of many people's actions. Minimalism allows us to step back and live within our means. Live without fear! Living with less really does give us more. We need to trust that God will provide for us as we practice wisdom and common sense. It might feel like we are out of our comfort zone not to have duplicates and extras, but truly, we will see reward. When we bless others, we in turn, will receive much blessing back. To everything there is a season, and this current season will not last for forever.
I would also argue that a person can still call themself a minimalist even if they like to keep a stocked pantry or linen closet. For some it is reassuring to always have that next bottle or bag waiting when the first runs out. I think that the conscious consumption of only what we need and love is the definition of minimalism. It doesn't mean lack. It means plenty.
@@kimberlybosman3258 I do agree with you on that, very well stated!
For example, I bake often so I do not like to run out of flour, sugar, etc
I like your definition of minimalism.
I agree
@@kimberlybosman3258 🙌 yes couldn't have said it any better myself 😁
😊 I should share that my words are adapted from another minimalist named Zara Fagan. She promotes minimalist homeschooling, but it is where I learned the idea of what you need and love and to turn enough into plenty. For the sake of credit where credit is due❤
Bravo! So inspiring and uplifting. We always have the possibility AND the opportunity to reinvent ourselves and our lives. What a great way to change the world, by starting with ourselves. I value that word “intentional.” Thank you for this 🦋
Such good thoughts! this time has totally helped me to see what I need and what I don't need! I'm using this time to do some more decluttering and paring down.
There is no denying that this is a terrible virus and so many people have been affected negatively..... But I do agree that there too will be a lot of positive changes to come out of this as well. Your videos are always so well worded and easy to understand. Thank you.
Love your content, I think this situation is pushing us minimalist even further. Needing less and less things everyday, living even more a simpler life than before.
So thankful there are people like this making good content.
I hope many people in my country will also accept minimalism lifestyle since we have more than 20 typhoons yearly,occasional earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and this unforeseen pandemic I have shifted in this kind of lifestyle to be practical and stress- free..love from PH
The Covid 19 Crisis makes clear for me, that there are no easy answers. Less is not always better. For example: Now that the Gyms are closed here in Germany for more than one month, I am glad that I posses a stationary bike and a weight bench, so I can still exercise. The same with the hair stylists, closed for weeks here, but with my beard trimmer I can cut my hair! A hardcore minimalist wouldn´t own these things!
Joshua, what is your take on preping/ storing food and necessities for hard times? What is the minimalist approach to saving money and investing?
I played this video at x1.75 speed and he spoke at a better pace. Maximized my time and gained 5 minutes. 🤣 Great video overall. 🙌🏽
Our roof was fixed 3 years ago. I never went onto the roof until today. I was shocked there were 5 big pieces of rotting wood and a tarp teeming with bugs! I spent an hour clearing it up.
Being at home due to lock down inspired me to declutter, starting from most lived places to least (the roof)
Now i thank myself for having not followed minimalism... i always knew that it is important to have a reserve because you never know what the future is... we gave for granted that as we need something we can GO OUT AND BUY IT... now i am so happy i built a big house with a big garden... so i can walk in open air without mask and gloves... to have all my family and i can need (within human possibilities)... i think that now we understand the beauty of our possessions, that their sense is to help in our life... everything has a sense, a good and a bad side and now minimalism shows its bad side, in other times it was a good way of life, not now. Just in my opinion.
Francesca Checchin yeah, if your items serve a function or potential future function then having a lot might not be a bad thing.
I was already minimizing when our situation changed suddenly - now our nephew is moved into our office and our office is squeezed into our bedroom! But I’m seeing the opportunity to accelerate our downsize before we buy our first house so that we can start off with a clutterfree and calm home.
I also see how cutting expenses and having a modest lifestyle can make it easier to start a business and become financially free - that’s a BIG why for us!
life and death circumstances = evaluating what's truly important. i'm glad i've been a minimalist for a number of years now. the current circumstances have allowed me to focus on my health, nutrition, and rediscover indoor hobbies that i once had much more time for (jigsaw puzzles, reading, baking). trying to focus on the positives during this time-including saving money and paying off nearly half of our student loan debt (on one income).
This pandemic ... with lockdown & social isolation has been very difficult yet, here I am.
Reevaluating my whole life & lifestyle.
Now stuck at home more it has been an eye opener.
I started buying crap online ... ( a lot of it is substandard) ... now there are these things added to existing content.
Now later into the year, later into this pandemic, I realize this global crisis is going to drag on way longer than initially expected.
I’m here to give thanks to the higher powers of the universe for helping me find you, and helping me reevaluate my life.
As I stare at all these things, I realize how much more important the experiences with friends & loved ones are.
I found myself living check by check so I went into a frugal state and I started storing a lot of stuff and realized it was overwhelming me. So I started looking into minimalism and I feel better still working on getting ride of more things I don't love or need. I raised my credit report pay off my credit cards and now I'm able to work part time which helps my mental state.
Thank you sooooo. Much I’m so happy with all your help
I liked minimalism before this... but now we NEED so much more! I wish we kept more games and puzzles, more books and craft supplies. I used to say to the kids “oh we can go to the library” not any more. I used to say “we don’t need more games we can visit friends” not any more. It’s cold and snowy in our part of the world. Limited outdoor play, no public spaces, no visiting family or friends. We have never bought so much before in such a short amount of time. Craft supplies, used video games, puzzles, etc. We have used it all too! Nothing has been wasted! But goods are hard to come by now with limited trade and transport between countries. Honestly I wish we kept more from before we decided on minimalism.
Libraries and museums and parks will be open again soon. Families with cabinets full of games and puzzles and books are also complaining about not having anything to do. This season will pass.
Joshua Becker it will be 40 days tomorrow here and our school is planning to close until January. I wish we could exchange games and puzzles among friends like some are having success with. It’s just so frustrating.
Thank you, Joshua. I love that you continue to analyze and look for underlying ideas about our behaviors and our society - and that you are vocalizing them for a global audience.
I told someone that i want to do this. They looked and me and laughed. i laugh at them because I have money. I am not doing it because I can't buy shit I don't need.
Oh man I have been decluttering and trashing things I never thought I would before 😂 This was after I thought I was done decluttering and the thought of having more clothes, purses, make up etc makes me physically sick.😭 I'm spending money on Netflix and eating out etc. Not Things but experiences❤ A great vid as always. Ty friend 😀
Looking at this 4 months after it was posted and, yep, you were exactly right.
Is stockpile important ,while trying to be a minimalist?
Voluntary simplicity is wonderful.
Involuntary simplicity is horrible.
Thank you for a wonderful video.
I did minimalism but not to the extreme because also in this times is nice to have everything you need at home.
Surely the question should be, how will this current event effect our lives and relationships with other humans? What makes a house a home is the people you live with, not the contents or lack of in your house. Minimalism is just a tool to manage stuff, it’s not the answer to survival. We need relationships and community to get through this.
MyImaginationsUk Please remember there are many of us who live alone...in our HOME. Please rethink your "what makes a house a home is the people you live with". Each of us decides what makes our home, even those of us who live alone.
@@tioh2001 even when you live alone, you still share your home with people you love when you invite them over. The point of my comment was to show that relationships are more important than things!
Made this decision on my own and I really enjoy simplify my life you are very helpful about minimalist lifestyle and simple living and living with less pessions
This is levelheaded thinking😀
Don't forget, more connection. When you're not competing with people in the game of possessions, status and gaining more, you find you want to connect either as a way of inspiring and sharing or just that the things you pursued no longer create anger because you no longer care so you become more open to connecting.
#5 is a huge point for me. I’ve been contemplating how to keep this “slow” in my life when we return to normal. My job has always been anti-WFH (even tho we are expected to WFH after hours and weekends). But now in this situation they have allowed it. I find I concentrate better and have more motivation WFH, but once it returns to normal, I’m sure they will return to their anti-WFH stance.
Retired for 20 years. I only keep what gives me joy. In the new abnormal, what now gives me extra joy is a nice high stack of Charmin strong (with the red bears) potty paper. Blue bears come on the soft Charmin. Check it out folks. 😻