You are quickly becoming one of my favorite youtubers. I've been on my minimalist journey for around 10 years and I've never been more at peace then I am right now. Thanks for the great video.
Relatable. Thank you for sharing your journey. Your house tour video popped up on yesterday and I’ve been thinking about it since. So good to hear your story. I have been decluttering and downsizing about 10 years now also. 2020 was a Big push for that with me. When our college kids all came home during the pandemic, they helped me go through *gulp* bins. And YES! It feels SO light. I actually am an Airbnb host. That helped too. To go into the homes and just breathe, because they only hold what is needed. No junk. No Boxes. My guests often laugh about wanting to move in. I think down deep we all want to leave the stuff behind, so many just don’t stop to think about it - maybe caught in the Western rat race. My husband and I are getting our own home (of 27 years) with 32 years married with 3 kids we have stuff. But we’re getting it ready to be a furnished rental also. So we can pick up escape to other parts of the world once he retires. We are usually gone for January, since he can work remotely. But instead of the house sitting empty - someone could enjoy it. This ended up WAY longer than I intended. Thanks again!
@lyneljohnson2960 That is all so wonderful. And I think you are right- many people deep down do want to be free of their things they just think they can’t. We build our own cages.. Blessings to you 🙏🏻✨🌸
I had such a similar experience to yours. My generous mum gave me too much stuff. I could never keep my room tidy cause of all the “collectable trinkets” that I never wanted. I was an outdoorsy gal and when I was 20 I rented a cabin on a mountain. There was a wood stove, a small table and a built in log bunk bed for one. Nothing else. I had to hike in and out. Heaven. I sold or gave away almost everything I owned. I heard my parents tell my siblings not to waste money on gifts for me - “she’ll just give it away!” They were right. I totally agree with your findings and message.💜
It's hard when people do not understand that you feel burdened by big piles of stuff! I too, have been met with actual anger at lightening my load, my wardrobe, or whatnot. I've actually had friends ask, "are you contemplating suicide?" "why do you not have any sentimentality?" and so forth... I studied living history and know how little people need, I also had a cabin experience at age 19 and realized we really don't need so much of what our culture tells us we do!
@TiffanyBlack-jy8jy people feel threatened when you live outside of their values. They want to validate their own insecurities, and outliers shake that up. Rather that look within at things that might need fixing, they turn outward and call the outlier crazy and wrong. I experience this same backlash for being Vegan.
Hi, I’ve watched all your videos and I just want to compliment the style you’re taking. It’s nice being able to hear the thoughts you’re sharing without all the noise and editing which can be distracting, this is like listening to a friend. I’m 36, I’ve been watching RUclips on a regular basis for over 10 years, it’s my go to comfort activity. In more recent years I’ve been questioning this activity though. I find it uneasy to just sit in my house without any background noise, that’s where this habit really took hold. I know it will be hard to break, but since you’ve mentioned the silence bathing and that you don’t own a TV etc. if you would consider making a video about how that became a regular practice for you I would find that very interesting and I’m sure it could be helpful to others as well. I know it’s a simple as turning off the electronics but it’s that “lack” feeling I want to rid myself of. Thankfully I have a rural backyard, I hope to spend more time outside this year than in years past. I hope you don’t disappear. I know that RUclips can be tricky especially for new creators but you’re doing amazing and every time I see a new video I’m quick to watch. Thank you for sharing your experiences, it’s been so hard to find people to relate to in this stage of my life.
Courtney thank you so much for these kind words. And I will definitely make a video going more in depth about Silence Bathing- it goes hand in hand with dealing with emotions. RUclips was a huge pacifier for me too during some very lonely times, and I felt great unease with just “being”- so it definitely took some practice to get there! But if you feel the pull then definitely follow that thread…
Hello, Courtney! If you need background noise, maybe start with a small.chunk of time listen to silence. Start with a few minutes. Set a timer. I think that "baby steps" are a great way to step something.
When my first husband and I separated, I left with a Noah's ark of bowels, plates, silverware, etc. I had my toiletries, clothes, a blanket, air mattress, a folding table, and a folding chair. It was the most liberating experience of my life. I didn't have a word for it at the time, but it set me on a lifelong journey of minimalism. I was 24 when it started, and I'm 39 now like you are. I'm also very much looking forward to turning 40. Thanks for sharing your experience!
Your story is very interesting. I have not been diagnosed, but I consider myself to be an HSP, and if there is alot of visual clutter and stimuli around me I just can't function. I am much more comfortable with open spaces and minimal things.
Always do what feels right for you! And in a world of diagnoses, being HSP or anything else doesn’t have to be a bad thing- we are all just wired differently which in turn gives us unique gifts to bring to the world 🙂
Welcome! Fancy edits are not my zone of genius, and personally watching jump cuts makes me feel twitchy. I want these videos to feel as organic and natural as possible- flaws and all- so they feel closer to a conversation with a friend 🙂
I have a shipping container full of second hand junk / antiques and it honestly makes me feel ill and quite depressed when I open the doors…like staring into a void and I feel completely trapped by it all. There must be thousands of items in there and I have no idea how to tackle it…it will take forever to process every item and it honestly makes me feel quite down. I just want it all gone…it’s like an anchor!
Yikes that does sound like an anchor. Have you ever thought of just auctioning it off? Or just taking the whole thing to be donated? There may be things in there you want, but if it’s sitting unused in storage and has been out of your life, you likely don’t actually need or want any of it…
I am so happy your hometour video popped up on my feed. I am inspired by the way you see things. Less is truly more. Love the fact that you also don’t use social media for entertainment. Thank you for sharing all that and I can’t wait for your next video! ❤
I relate to this soooo well. It seemed when I became an adult I bought and accepted and shipped and accumulated to meet what I thought were the “standards” of an adult. I hated it!! Always feeling overwhelmed. Even when the house was clean. The last couple of years I have been selling everything. Keeping only what I love and serves me. My family and friends think I’m losing my mind. I have never felt more free. I even sold my Apple Watch. Nothing wrong with them, but I didn’t love it. But everyone has them. Now, I could care a less.
So what's really stopping me from getting rid of 90% of my things is actually my environmental worries. As well as an aspiring minimalist, I am also a supporter of zero waste and I feel like there is a conflict between the two. I try to get rid of things but then I think that a lot them are going to end up in landfill so I might as well keep them. I live in a small country where second hand shopping isn't very popular and so no goodwill, charity shops etc. I have donated quite a lot to fb groups but I still have a lot. I just try to declutter responsibly and that really hurts the speed of my decluttering because I end up keeping things until I find a good home for them. It is exhausting tbh. The good thing is that I have somewhat fixed my buying habits so not a lot is coming in but the actual going out is very slow and tedious. Better than nothing but I would love to be able to just get rid of my stuff without the guilt that comes from wasting good things or contributing to the landfill problem. Really happy you were able to achieve this in your life, essentialism is my goal too. One day...!
I became a minimalist when I lived in a small apartment, while our house was being renovated. All of our stuff was put into storage for over a year minus our essentials. I quickly realized how much I enjoyed life with less stuff. I also had a newborn and a 2 year old at the time. So when we moved back into the house, I had all of our stuff put into the garage and only brought in what we truly needed and used. You could do something similar in your space. Pack everything away like you’re moving. And shop your own stuff as you need it. You can slowly find ways to either use it or find news homes for the items sustainably.
Yes guilt can be a tricky one and for sure being eco conscious is important! Donating/recycling are the best routes, or even repurposing with materials like wood or fabric if you can. Unfortunately it may be that some things truly are “trash”, and while I understand the guilt, you can ask yourself: Do I want the inside of my house to also be a landfill? …the good news is your adjusted your habits so going forward there will be much less accumulation. Keep going on your journey, you will get there! ❤️
This! It is a sound I often miss in minimalism. I try to buy a lot less, and give away or sell the things I no longer need. Also I try to use the things (up) even if I like them a bit less. Also, I picked up mending, repairing and upcycling. It is a slow journey though.
Wow I really needed this video..I’ve been so stressed out lately about trivial things that are not important. Thank you for sharing your story. You’re very inspiring to me! 🤍
Have you watched the documentary where the guy starts of naked in his house and then goes and gets an item once a day, until he realises he has enough?
Your journey is honestly super inspiring. I personally find myself coming back to the concept of minimalism again and again because I desire less distraction. I struggle with letting go of things, definitely passed down from generations previous, and my emotional attachment to things. Yet, I still come back to wanting to simplify things. Thank you for sharing your journey with us and showing us it is possible to make those changes!
Yes change and evolution are always possible Kyleigh! Keep listening to your heart and take some courageous first steps and then momentum will build! I know sentimental items can be the hardest, but remember that the memories are in YOU, not the thing ;)
My 10y.o daughter last night was cleaning her room and decided to go into organize mode which meant purge mode and I was astonished to see how much she let go of. For a long time now she has seen me letting go of things slowly but surely and we often go through her things together where I ask her what does she value and love and need and what is she ready to let go of so she’s become accustomed to the practice. So I asked her at the end of it all last night, why are you letting go of so much this time and she smiled at me with her bright sweet face and told me straight like kids do best: “I don’t want to take care of it anymore” And I grinned with pride haha as we both laughed. At 10 she now has a valuable concept for the rest of her life that I honestly quite wish I had the wisdom for at such a young age. So I love hearing about your childhood and how you too were aware of the benefits of less. 😊
This is such a statement speach ! I TOTALLY agree with you in everything...i wish i could have many fewer things than what i have right now but i've inherited the whole material life of one relative and it has been a long journey getting rid of stuff that i don't want...it takes time...but i'm getting there! I'm from Buenos Aires, Argentina...consumerism is everywhere...thanks for sharing!!
I love seeing so many people commenting that they are also finding happiness in minimalism. It helps people in so many different ways which ultimately will help the planet from being polluted with so much stuff 💚🌱
Yes!! It’s so much more than an aesthetic- it’s a collective shift in consciousness that can greatly shift our impact on the planet to a more harmonious place 🌿
One thing at a time and you will get there! Sometimes it takes some courage and getting out of your comfort zone, like any new thing in life, but once you start you will gain momentum and transformation in imminent!!
Thank you for sharing your story. I look forward to applying that lifestyle for myself. Unfortunately, I live with my compulsive, narcissistic elderly mother, who, among many things, is also a hoarder. I embrace a clutter-free lifestyle because of the traumatic experiences of living with someone who has always been abnormal. She is 83 now, and I hate to say that I am just waiting. To be fair, she was never a very good person to begin with, so please don't think of me as much of a monster. She has always been someone who everyone has to bear. I think I became a workaholic because it keeps me away from returning to a place that is supposed to be for rest and peace of mind.
I’m sorry you are in a difficult living situation. That is really an act of deeper love and compassion to be caring for someone who has caused you pain. Keep doing what you can with your own things 🙏🏻
Being 83 years old, your mother would have been born during WW2 & the Great depression. I imagine the programming of those times & the experiences she may have had during her childhood in those times would more than likely have been somewhat difficult & therefore may have hugely impacted on her life & her behaviours & decisions she has made. I'm not discounting your own experiences, though I think it's helpful to sometimes look deeper into why somebody is the way they are & unfortunately it quite often involves their own experiences of trauma.
I appreciate everything that you’re saying. I too would like to stop consuming trash tv shows and shopping as entertainment. I have been making small strides which I am happy about. Can you give me more examples on what you do for entertainment/relaxation after you get home from work or what you like to do on weekends? Im a stay at home mom and I actually feel like I have too much time on my hands and I don’t know what to do with my energy. If I’m not with my daughter I’m on my phone or watching something. Even when doing my makeup I feel like I have to be listening to something. Anyways, I’d appreciate your input. Thanks!:)
Being a mom is hard work! So finding time for yourself to relax is important. I enjoy very simple activities like listening to music, reading a book, meditation and, most importantly, being in nature. I used to have bad anxiety but cutting out screen time and actually spending a lot of time in silence just resting really helped me balance out :)
I’m so glad I came across to this video as I was stressing so bad in finding a cute chunky reading chair, lamp, little table etc…when you made me realized I don’t need all of that, I can just read in my bed or sofa. ❤
Discovered your channel a coupla days ago and I really love your content. I don't like labels but I consider myself an "essentialist", and don't like to spend money on useless stuff. I went through years where I used to spend a lot on all kinds of stuff, but moving from one place or country to another was an absolute nightmare, and I moved a lot trust me! So years ago I got rid of almost all of my stuff and have been living a simpler life since. I still declutter a lot these days as I'm living with my elderly, sick mother and this apartment needs constant decluttering 'cause she used to like buying and keeping loads of stuff! But I'm proud to say I own very few things now, and that makes me feel free. Ciao from Italy 😊
Ciao to Italy!! I have been to Rome a couple times- you have such a beautiful and magical county. And that is so awesome to hear you have found a life of simplicity that works for you. Our parents are of a different generation and can definitely be prone to collecting a lot of things- that is really sweet that you are helping your mother 💜💜
I am watching this video again , this is so inspiring for me. I look around my house and feel trapped by all my stuff. I remember a time when I was single and I only had little furniture in a four bedroom apartment. I never felt lighter. I am trying to get rid of more of my things sell them donate them or give them to friends. I just wanted to thank you so much for your inspiring videos. ❤️❤️
So glad you are finding inspiration here and yes break free. You are not “required” to own anything. F**k the rules and expectations. Follow your heart 🩵
at 19:00 I got excited to see you criticize capitalism, but you didn't. Why are you pushing the guilt onto the working class, who struggles so much to survive, instead of correctly blaming the capitalists and their endless greed? A lifestyle change into minimalism is not the revolution we need to both protect the environment and end world hunger. We need political and collective action instead. at 20:00 I realized you are talking from a privileged position - you live in the imperial core, but I still don't think that's an excuse for your lack of class consciousness. Most people from where I come from (third world country) can't live without 90% of what they have, they live paycheck to paycheck or in debt. There is a need for more things. Minimalism can't change the world or save the environment alone. yeah, I don't think that "dollar voting" works. Anyway, I still appreciate your content and I think you are doing an otherwise great work
Isn't it funny how we remember the names of those who wronged/hurt us, even years later? Mine was Zhenya Whittington. 😅 I love your lifestyle! I consider myself something of a minimalist but want to be more so.
I’ve been on the minimal path around 8th/9th grade, (22y/o) and one thing I’m struggling with is RUclips consumption. Sometimes I wonder do we get rid of all this stuff so we have nothing to do? No hobbies like sewing , crafts. My job was making my own body butters candles exfoliants and vegan healthy food. It requires pots (a lot) excess jars for products and labels, food containers, a ton of oat flour ect. Flexibility and essentialism is important. Especially when you work for yourself and need more to create for your community.
Yes absolutely- that is AWESOME you make your own food and healthy products! So of course that will require some extra materials to have on hand, but that is a good thing! And balance is key. There is some great content out there on RUclips that can be very helpful, it’s just about staying aware that you aren’t getting too addicted or distracting yourself ;)
This resonates with me. I remember being incredibly overwhelmed with all the things that were around me when I was very young. I remember trying to get rid of things that I didn’t want and I wasn’t allowed. We moved when I was 9 and I only took one bag, my mother wanted me to bring more 😅
I just need one chair, a bed, computer/monitor and xbox and somewhere to put my books. I'm a guy though lol. Think it's easier for guys to live with less
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! So much love and energy and inspiration! You glow! Continue to inspire and motivate and make think other ppl. I am not minimalist but i am interested in this and don't like much things around me but i have still super much to rethink about. I have moved around a bit last much years so i got rid of much things and i loved to move! But now last 4 years i am settled and I have got a wonderful baby and with this started to flow much stuff cuz i even have no idea what is needed cuz its my first baby. So it kicked me to search again about minimalism to be more motivated to have all as i want but not how it "flows". I want less and less things to be with, instead of sort/clean/wash things for baby. You are right. Everyone around and especially marketing decides for us but it doesn't have to be so. Minimalism is not supported by marketing cuz it don't bring any money to them. I love how you talk about nature and beauty of it and that everyone can start with tiny steps to take care of our planet. Its what i have in my mind but ofc got trapped in this "things" cage. Thank you again for sharing your experience and inspire! You are magical. Sending much love back to you and everyone else ♥
Thank you so much for these kind words Anna, and congratulations on your new baby! I think being a mother is the hardest job in the world. Of course you will need things to take care of your baby, but it’s all about listening to your soul and not society. Make your own rules! Only you know what’s best for you and your Baby 💕
I was just at a pharmacy getting my son's prescription....looking around at all the rows of things and thought "She would not have any of this stuff" 😂
I was in an apartment for 2 years, moved in without a moving truck because I didn’t have a lot. I just needed my dad’s truck to fit my mattress. By the end of the move, I needed a 15 foot moving truck to fit all of my things, and I had to hire movers to move all my things into my 3rd floor apartment. As I unpacked, I got rid of a large chunk of my belongings, including probably more than half my clothing. My goal by the end of my year lease is to be able to fit all of my belongings into my Subaru plus a U-Haul trailer that I can pull behind me. It’s nothing near your level of minimalism, but I think that’s what will work for me since I am big into the zero-waste movement. My hobbies involve keeping a lot of different sized jars on hand because I do a lot of fermentation, it’s just so expensive to buy high quality kraut at the store. I also have a small personal apothecary for my herbs and homemade tinctures. It’s hard wanting to be minimal and sustainable at the same time!
Those are wonderful and very healthy hobbies to have 💖 No need to think of being on “my level”- everyone is on their own unique journey. Just keep leaning in to the balance that feels right for you 💕💕
I love your videos so much! I watched everything in two days) They are very inspiring and show the way to move on! Thank you!❤ I will be happy to watch your videos further) I’m looking forward to it 🪻🤗
Minimalism is the best way to live in my opinion. I don't want any more stuff and only buy what I need. I constantly look for things to donate or get rid of because I love the way it makes me feel. Less truly is more!
Yes, I want to be more intentional with my purchases.Many gems dropped here today, very helpful. Right after I watched your video, I was inundated to see how much influencer content there is that all promote consumption. I will be doing a purge and only keep those that bring value, like yours. Thank you for your fresh perspective ❤
This is my second video I have watched of yours, and every word you said I felt was straight out of my everyday thoughts. As a child I never wanted things. My mother bought me stuff (she's a stuff person but I'm converting her to minimalism now). I thought your home was refreshing! We have 3 kids and wow, that has made me really think about stuff. The over consumption of kids stuff is nauseating. We started bank accounts for them instead and encourage contributions to that these days. Beautiful video. Thank you!
I am sorry in advance for this long comment but I really want to thank you. I have been on an (up and down) journey of self healing and discovery since the beginning of the year which has lead me to your channel. The past two years, I had become the antithesis of who I am inside and who my highest self is - needy, depressed, shallow, judgemental, jealous, duplicitous etc. - and after ending a rather toxic relationship I really wanted to look at WHY and I believe this need for more more more and 'if I have this then such and such will find me attractive' or this inability to BE who I am does stem from buying too much into the mainstream culture and what we are sold. Having stepped away for the past 6 months, I am finding myself to be happier, more of the person I want to be - friendly, kind, supportive, thoughtful - all my Artemis and Hestia qualities (I read this book also) were being suppressed by the thought of 'this is just what adult life is like and this is what it is to be a woman' and in reality, trying to hang onto a man (or anything!) who doesn't even have the qualities I would find essential in a man anyway. I no longer am thinking of any men when I make choices in my life. Since finding your channel I have been really inspired to just live my truth and live in accordance to my values, to find that little girl inside of me who loved spending all day outside playing with leaves and flowers and reading and solitude - and shed the skin of this I guess image of who I feel I should be. IDK if this makes sense, but thank you from the bottom of the heart, you have inspired me like no other to look inward and be authentic. It doesn't look exactly like your lifestyle - but it shouldn't, because it's authentically me ♡
This was absolutely beautiful and extremely touching. Thank you for sharing your story- it’s comments like these that inspire me to keep going. I’m so glad you are finding your way ✨🦋
Thank you for sharing your story ♥ with regard to personal responsibility and climate change, I think that only holding individual consumers responsible is an ineffective way to create change. We ultimately do need governments to create legislation. One example I can think of is the change in legislation regarding plastic bags here in the UK. If you asked people before the change, everyone thought that it was a good idea to bring your own bag, but there was no real incentive to do so. But when the law mandated there be a charge for a plastic bag, the use of them dropped by over 80% across the country. Of course though, governments don't exist in a vacuum - they legislate on issues that are important to their voters (in theory), so they can get re-elected. The more people that start caring about their environmental impact, the better chance of change we have. So there definitely is an element of personal responsibility, but I think to say that this all comes down to personal responsibility is an unnuanced view. Personal action, if done by enough people, becomes collective action, which influences the government. Love this video though, it's interesting to hear how you came into this lifestyle
For sure the government can eventually affect change, but as you stated that still starts from personal action, which then multiplies ;) Glad you enjoyed 💙
I’m a minimalist! 😊 And you are so correct about the peace of mind and freedom that comes with it. Many people are over simulated by the media and consumerism. I love your videos and looking forward to following your journey ❤
Thank you for this story. I lam nosy, and I enjoy learning the back stories and history. While I am far from ultra minimalist, I find deep inspiration in these videos. I agree with you on the consumption! But our government -- regardless of who is "in power" -- has no interest legislation to slow our destruction. Many of us (myself included ( are cogs in a corporate machine, and our spending keeps us enslaved to it. And I realize that many, many people are working several jobs and are struggling financially. Assuming you're willing to share, I would be interested to hear how you found your authentic personal style.
Yes it’s easy to feel like a cog in a wheel, but we DO have the power to act for ourselves and take our lives into our own hands! Even if it’s just starting with the smallest of steps… And thank you for that idea on the personal style- I’ll add that to the list :)
I have been minimalist for the last 5 years (not as extreme as you though! 🤪). I also watched that "minimalist" netflix movie and had a mindshift change when I began to wonder why I felt the need to have so much stuff. I think I was brought up to believe that "more is better" - Why would anyone want less? It also happened at a time I was moving so I got rid of alot of stuff at that time. I live in a 1 bedroom apartment which is plenty of space for me, but still sometimes people ask me when I'm going to buy something bigger ??? I have just finished paying off my mortgage, why would I want to borrow more money and get a bigger place I don't need? People seem to believe in our western society that we must always be striving for more, and bigger and better - rather then being content with what you currently have.
I have never related to someone so much in my life. I moved into my first solo apartment at 30 and everyone in my life pushed al these things that I neeeeeded to have to fill the space. I move a lot and travel as do you. After being in this space for almost a year, I look around and get very overwhelmed with how much has accumulated more so from others gifts rather than my own hand. Every time I’ve moved, I’ve got rid of so much that I could just pack up my SUV and then go. That’s not how this move feels like it’ll be :(
People love to push their standards and values on others so that they can validate their own choices and existence. But you can politely say “thanks but no thanks” and live your own truth 💜💜
Congrats on starting! I have a few vids that may help: 1. How I became an ultra minimalist: my story 2. How I cured my addiction to shopping 3. My top 10 decluttering tips from a minimalist pro 4. How I broke my addiction to stimulus Hope these help 💚💚💚
I love what you say about Noah’s Ark - two of everything in the kitchen. That helped me a lot with my recent move. In 2017, I started my minimalist journey. In 2020, I gave everything away and all I had fit in a rented Toyota Corolla. I continued to purge with the idea of getting down to one carry-on. I never got to that point and just moved to a studio. I’m carefully curating what I bring in and want to keep it simple so I can be FREE. I decided to keep my walls clear too. There’s enough stimulus outside. I have a disdain for American excess. Although I see Black Friday sales creeping to Europe. The last several years I choose experiences over things. I recently discovered your channel and it really resonates. Years ago I volunteered for Junior Achievement and the first grade class had a segment about Needs and Wants. I realized many adults don’t know the difference. I get overwhelmed by too many choices. I love simplicity and am still striving for my perfect capsule wardrobe. My last space was less than 100 square feet with 27 inches of hangar space. You’re right, we can make better choices and I’m happier with less too. I’m not controlled by things. There’s beauty in simplicity. 💜. Thanks for the inspiration.
Loved hearing you walking us through your thought processes on what motivated you to go down this road and your aha moments. One of mine was from constantly reading my favorite kind of books that involve people in covered wagons moving west with all their possessions and family in one wagon. Each female had pretty much one dress that did everything, looked good, and they took good care of it. If it got torn, they sewed it up. They may have had one special trinket that the entire family valued and treasured and passed down to the children. I want that kind of relationship with my things! My journey has very much been like the "onion", I have peeled back one layer at a time so that it hasn't been so noticeable but when I came across photos of us in our house from a few years ago, I was shocked! Especially with the amount of toys we had for our son.
Lauren we are soul sisters on that- I am OBSESSED with frontier times. And you are spot on, when traveling like that, you could only take very little, and so it was truly valued and taken care of. Thats awesome you have come so far on your journey- keep going with that onion 🧅🧅
@@Exploravore what do you think of the movie Braveheart? I watch that movie and think- wow, what the heck am I doing with my life? haha! Love that its also based of real historial events/people like Mohicans. Inspirational!
Only you can truly know that number. A good place to start is enough pants/shirts for one week (ie 7 of each) or “uniforms” for different activities- ie one workout outfit, one lounging outfit, one dress up outfit etc. But we all have different needs. Try to keep pieces that are multifunctional and can be dressed up or down and also mixed and matched with other pieces in your wardrobe 💜
I’m so enjoying your videos. I think our society trains us to be consumers; when we are finally able to quiet the noise, we don’t need as much as we’ve been told. It was eye opening to me when I took everything down off my bedroom walls (except for one meaningful painting, that my mom gave me, her last birthday gift to me before she passed). With that space, I felt like I could exhale. That I could think. That I could breathe. And so I continued...what could I do without? What did I really need? Thank you for your videos 🙏
Ah this is awesome to hear Tamsen! Glad you are awakening to this new spaciousness. But yes absolutely keep that very special painting- it’s all about cherishing the few things that truly add value to our life 💖
I really appreciate how you share your truths, but without condemning others. You could very easily take a holier than thou approach, and when you don't, I find it so incredibly refreshing. You are definitely GOALS when it comes to purging & minimizing. I find in my own life, all of my and my family's belongings completely overwhelm me that I don't know where to begin. Please keep making content! I would enjoy any and all tips on how just to get freaking started. ❤
Thank you for those kind words Gretta 💕 I know it can be very overwhelming, but if you hold the intention you can get there! I have a video titled “Top 10 decluttering tips from a minimalist pro”- if you want to check it out there’s some tips in there to start tackling the beast ;)
Thank you so much for that autobiographical journey you shared with us. I am a guy, so you can imagine some parts of your journey did not touch home, and still so many points felt very real to me. Shortened version of my story: I grew up in the wilderness which allows me to realized such things as the fact that everything being paved is not natural. Despite growing up in the wilderness, my parents were probably borderline hoarders. At 17 I joined the US Army, and in just one day Uncle Sam made me a minimalist. I did not appreciate it at the time, but I think in a way that did start my journey years later. You see although not everything about being in the Army is rosy, there is one thing that did impress me.... We were super efficient and effective. We easily did a lot. One we were in good shape, and two we had few items to distract us. Exit the Army, and a couple years later it occurred to me that the lack of stuff we had accounted for some of the good points of Army life. I did not know what minimalism was but in college I realized I wanted very few items, like when I was in the Army, so that I could focus. Life did challenge that lite road for quite a while after college, but now I am back on the path to being minimalist. I am far from an Ultra minimalist at this point in time, but I am quite into the journey. This probably does not highlight the similarities in our stories, because the similarities are more in the feeling that having too much stuff causes. I too feel trapped by having too much clutter, and freedom when I let go of something that no longer serves me. I guess the closest factual point in the story is that I lived on Scottsdale Rd in Tempe once.
Joseph thank you for sharing this! We are all connected and have our own unique stories to tell! First off, thank you for serving in the Army- that is a selflessness I think few people hardly understand. And that makes total sense- I have an Uncle who was in the Army and we also have talked about how it forces you into essentialism and how you can actually survive off of very little. I spent my teens and early 20s training for the Olympics so I can relate- life revolved around intense training and I had just a few essentials with me. (Similarities can always be found under the surface 😉) That’s great you are staying true to your minimalist path- I’m sure your discipline from the Army makes keeping to that fairly easy :) Also nice to have a guy here! I love my crew of Ladies, but all are welcome here ❤️❤️ Cheers ✨
I’m a new follower and this video was really fascinating - about your life leading up to this point, and why you live the way you do. I love the minimalists.
I identify with this a lot... The only thing for which I could be a maximalist would be in building a beautiful garden... I don't think I own a lot of stuff, I touch every object on a regular basis (except decor) but I still feel overwhelmed with the little things.
Gardens are of nature and can feed you- I in no way consider that “stuff” or “needless possessions”. It requires some tools and supplies to upkeep a garden, but this is life- it’s a beautiful thing to have one 💚🌿
@@Exploravore I meant the maximalist look I guess, where you have things to see everywhere, but in nature it's just peaceful to look at. But I do feel overwhelmed by the number of plants I have sometimes, because it takes a lot of time to know their needs, water them, treat pests etc 😅
@fireflythinking1290 ah yes I understand. I used to love having every corner filled with beauty and color, but as I removed things I began to see the beauty of open space and how one thing can often make a more powerful statement than a group of many 💜
I began minimalism in 2006 when my ex left. It began slowly. With getting ridnof everything that was his that he left. Then slowly over time getting rid of things that didn't "serve" me or just plain didnt want around anymore. It did make me feel so much lighter. I hate clutter! Cannot stand it. Fast-forward, now remarried. My husband has so much stuff and it drives me crazy! Definitely messes with my energy. I am constantly decluttering, he just doesn't know it😅. Watching this video makes me want to go home and declutter some stuff😊
I believe that it was Fumio Sasaki in his book that says something like, "Everyone is born a minimalist". And i really believe that was true for me. Watching my newborn (and now toddler) it is amazing how little he needs to be happy. I am trying to get back to that place of contentment and peace. 🕊️ Thanks for sharing your story, I know you are helping many people.
Thank you for sharing your story. What I like the most from this post is the way you clearly state all the things you gain from being an ultra minimalist: connection, being of service, time in nature or with those you love etc. Isn't it amazing how most of us started with these things, but we've allowed ourselves be sold the lie that lots of stuff is better. I'm on a journey of minimalism, it's taken many years, but I am happy with the progress I've made. I've just recently gone much more minimal with closing, and I'm now understanding what true minimalists say that it's not until you go far enough in removing the excess, that you can really experience the full benefits. What areas in the home do you recommend to focus on first, to fully experience the benefits of minimalism?
It totally depends on your home and what things you have. Starting with the easy and obvious things that you can let go of is good- then you can start to see the next layer. If it’s a “just in case” item or hasn’t been used in 6 months, let it go. See where you have decorations and how using less would make more of a statement (not every single wall or corner needs to be decorated). Hope this helps 💜
THAT bloody Robin Greenwood....I hate mean girls. Good for you for having this healthy lifestyle. I'm becoming an extreme minimalist and I am slowly teaching my 7 year old daughter to be the same. Things don't always bring happiness, but experiences and adventures do. Saving up for a van to convert and live in. I don't own a house or flat and I'm absolutely fine with that. If a war starts in my country, many houses will be destroyed and I doubt that insurance companies will fully or hardly reimburse for the loss so better live in a tiny house on wheels and get the fuck out if things go sour. I'm a nomad too, anyway.
Wonderful ! I have also always hated clutter. As a child You would have possibly been my one friend who might have understood me. As it turned out I was the child of many who helped prep food ,clean after everyone both indoors and out. I did yard work even thogh I frequently ended up in emergency rooms do to hay feaver and asthma and allergic reactions to stings. I remember wanting to finish trimming a tree before going to the hospital and getting heat stroke. I made the entire house hold of beds and did every ones laundry and cleaned toilets and droors and closets All because I Wanted to !!! I seemed to have been born a Neat Freak ! Cousins and family friends always knew I would give them any possession because I only valued photos and a few sentimental items. At the old age of 65 Now I am more acceptable. I never even hoarded money because it was always so much fun to share. I was always considered peculiar but they loved the fact I did not want to hold on to any thing and wanted any one to take what they wanted so I could keep a clean and un cluttered enviornment which brought me joy. 😊
I’m glad you know yourself and have stayed in that truth. Sounds like you have given much of your life to service as well, which is a beautiful thing 🩵
Just discovered your channel! It’s so great! I feel very similar to you in regards to minimalism. I felt this way since childhood as well. I just didn’t realize it was part of being minimalistic.
![First 3 Hours Of Writing A Story (Starting From Nothing) - Jeff Kitchen [FULL INTERVIEW]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/b2RlPZmz9nc/mqdefault.jpg)
You are quickly becoming one of my favorite youtubers. I've been on my minimalist journey for around 10 years and I've never been more at peace then I am right now. Thanks for the great video.
That is awesome to hear Melanie- I’m right there with you. Feeling at peace is SUCH a blessing ✨
Same here
Relatable. Thank you for sharing your journey. Your house tour video popped up on yesterday and I’ve been thinking about it since. So good to hear your story. I have been decluttering and downsizing about 10 years now also. 2020 was a Big push for that with me. When our college kids all came home during the pandemic, they helped me go through *gulp* bins. And YES! It feels SO light. I actually am an Airbnb host. That helped too. To go into the homes and just breathe, because they only hold what is needed. No junk. No Boxes. My guests often laugh about wanting to move in. I think down deep we all want to leave the stuff behind, so many just don’t stop to think about it - maybe caught in the Western rat race. My husband and I are getting our own home (of 27 years) with 32 years married with 3 kids we have stuff. But we’re getting it ready to be a furnished rental also. So we can pick up escape to other parts of the world once he retires. We are usually gone for January, since he can work remotely. But instead of the house sitting empty - someone could enjoy it. This ended up WAY longer than I intended. Thanks again!
@lyneljohnson2960 That is all so wonderful. And I think you are right- many people deep down do want to be free of their things they just think they can’t. We build our own cages.. Blessings to you 🙏🏻✨🌸
Also, completely agree with your comments about the super stores…sometimes I have to walk out because I am overwhelmed by the sheer amount of stuff.
It’s chaos….
That s how I feel about a visit so gave up my card! ❤🏴🇨🇦
Popples!!!! I just turned 43 last October and I def had a Popple.
Hahahah yes!!! They were so cute (but weird lol)
I had such a similar experience to yours. My generous mum gave me too much stuff. I could never keep my room tidy cause of all the “collectable trinkets” that I never wanted. I was an outdoorsy gal and when I was 20 I rented a cabin on a mountain. There was a wood stove, a small table and a built in log bunk bed for one. Nothing else. I had to hike in and out. Heaven. I sold or gave away almost everything I owned. I heard my parents tell my siblings not to waste money on gifts for me - “she’ll just give it away!” They were right. I totally agree with your findings and message.💜
Omg cabin = DREAM LIFE 🤤🤤 So cool you did that!
It's hard when people do not understand that you feel burdened by big piles of stuff! I too, have been met with actual anger at lightening my load, my wardrobe, or whatnot. I've actually had friends ask, "are you contemplating suicide?" "why do you not have any sentimentality?" and so forth... I studied living history and know how little people need, I also had a cabin experience at age 19 and realized we really don't need so much of what our culture tells us we do!
@TiffanyBlack-jy8jy people feel threatened when you live outside of their values. They want to validate their own insecurities, and outliers shake that up. Rather that look within at things that might need fixing, they turn outward and call the outlier crazy and wrong. I experience this same backlash for being Vegan.
Hi, I’ve watched all your videos and I just want to compliment the style you’re taking. It’s nice being able to hear the thoughts you’re sharing without all the noise and editing which can be distracting, this is like listening to a friend.
I’m 36, I’ve been watching RUclips on a regular basis for over 10 years, it’s my go to comfort activity. In more recent years I’ve been questioning this activity though. I find it uneasy to just sit in my house without any background noise, that’s where this habit really took hold. I know it will be hard to break, but since you’ve mentioned the silence bathing and that you don’t own a TV etc. if you would consider making a video about how that became a regular practice for you I would find that very interesting and I’m sure it could be helpful to others as well. I know it’s a simple as turning off the electronics but it’s that “lack” feeling I want to rid myself of. Thankfully I have a rural backyard, I hope to spend more time outside this year than in years past.
I hope you don’t disappear. I know that RUclips can be tricky especially for new creators but you’re doing amazing and every time I see a new video I’m quick to watch. Thank you for sharing your experiences, it’s been so hard to find people to relate to in this stage of my life.
Courtney thank you so much for these kind words. And I will definitely make a video going more in depth about Silence Bathing- it goes hand in hand with dealing with emotions. RUclips was a huge pacifier for me too during some very lonely times, and I felt great unease with just “being”- so it definitely took some practice to get there! But if you feel the pull then definitely follow that thread…
Hello, Courtney! If you need background noise, maybe start with a small.chunk of time listen to silence. Start with a few minutes. Set a timer.
I think that "baby steps" are a great way to step something.
Thank you Courtney.
When my first husband and I separated, I left with a Noah's ark of bowels, plates, silverware, etc. I had my toiletries, clothes, a blanket, air mattress, a folding table, and a folding chair. It was the most liberating experience of my life. I didn't have a word for it at the time, but it set me on a lifelong journey of minimalism. I was 24 when it started, and I'm 39 now like you are. I'm also very much looking forward to turning 40. Thanks for sharing your experience!
And likewise thank you for sharing yours! Cheers to 40! 💜💜
Your story is very interesting. I have not been diagnosed, but I consider myself to be an HSP, and if there is alot of visual clutter and stimuli around me I just can't function. I am much more comfortable with open spaces and minimal things.
Always do what feels right for you! And in a world of diagnoses, being HSP or anything else doesn’t have to be a bad thing- we are all just wired differently which in turn gives us unique gifts to bring to the world 🙂
I looked up HSP traits and that’s me to a T. Wow! I’ve also been a lifelong minimalist and decluttered often as a kid.
@rachelrachel3214 I think there are alot of us out here. Putting a name to it makes it much easier to understand and learn to deal with😀
Yes me2
Being a HSP is difficult with 2 kids under 4 😩
Girl!! The way the video just boom straight to the point, love!! Thank you !!!
Welcome! Fancy edits are not my zone of genius, and personally watching jump cuts makes me feel twitchy. I want these videos to feel as organic and natural as possible- flaws and all- so they feel closer to a conversation with a friend 🙂
I could hear you talk for hours, pleade keep making Videos, youre great❤
Awe thank you!! ☺️❤️
I have a shipping container full of second hand junk / antiques and it honestly makes me feel ill and quite depressed when I open the doors…like staring into a void and I feel completely trapped by it all.
There must be thousands of items in there and I have no idea how to tackle it…it will take forever to process every item and it honestly makes me feel quite down. I just want it all gone…it’s like an anchor!
Yikes that does sound like an anchor. Have you ever thought of just auctioning it off? Or just taking the whole thing to be donated? There may be things in there you want, but if it’s sitting unused in storage and has been out of your life, you likely don’t actually need or want any of it…
Just discovered your channel. I’m on the same journey, and your story gives me a lot of inspiration, especially with sentimental items.
Welcome to the fam Joshua! And happy to hear you are on your journey to simplicity 🌟🌟
I am so happy your hometour video popped up on my feed. I am inspired by the way you see things. Less is truly more. Love the fact that you also don’t use social media for entertainment. Thank you for sharing all that and I can’t wait for your next video! ❤
Thank you Flora and welcome to Team Minimal!! ✨❤️✨
And I LOVE your response to the negative comments about your “depressing” home video tour. You’re so wise and balanced!
Thank you I try my best 🙂
Enjoying your videos! Please continue making them. They are very helpful and inspiring.
Thank you so much for this feedback! I really appreciate the support and encouragement 😊
I love the minimalism documentary! I’ve watched it hundreds of times. 😂 Keep sharing, you’re an inspiration to me!
Thank you Julie!! And yes those guys are the coolest 🔥
I relate to this soooo well. It seemed when I became an adult I bought and accepted and shipped and accumulated to meet what I thought were the “standards” of an adult. I hated it!! Always feeling overwhelmed. Even when the house was clean. The last couple of years I have been selling everything. Keeping only what I love and serves me. My family and friends think I’m losing my mind. I have never felt more free. I even sold my Apple Watch. Nothing wrong with them, but I didn’t love it. But everyone has them. Now, I could care a less.
Hell yes Rebecca find your freedom! Tune out the noise and do what makes you happy. I don’t own a damn Apple Watch either 😜😜
@@Exploravore 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
So what's really stopping me from getting rid of 90% of my things is actually my environmental worries. As well as an aspiring minimalist, I am also a supporter of zero waste and I feel like there is a conflict between the two. I try to get rid of things but then I think that a lot them are going to end up in landfill so I might as well keep them. I live in a small country where second hand shopping isn't very popular and so no goodwill, charity shops etc. I have donated quite a lot to fb groups but I still have a lot. I just try to declutter responsibly and that really hurts the speed of my decluttering because I end up keeping things until I find a good home for them. It is exhausting tbh. The good thing is that I have somewhat fixed my buying habits so not a lot is coming in but the actual going out is very slow and tedious. Better than nothing but I would love to be able to just get rid of my stuff without the guilt that comes from wasting good things or contributing to the landfill problem. Really happy you were able to achieve this in your life, essentialism is my goal too. One day...!
I became a minimalist when I lived in a small apartment, while our house was being renovated. All of our stuff was put into storage for over a year minus our essentials. I quickly realized how much I enjoyed life with less stuff. I also had a newborn and a 2 year old at the time. So when we moved back into the house, I had all of our stuff put into the garage and only brought in what we truly needed and used.
You could do something similar in your space. Pack everything away like you’re moving. And shop your own stuff as you need it. You can slowly find ways to either use it or find news homes for the items sustainably.
Not sure where you live but you could also have a yard sale. Everything is free to a good home!
Yes guilt can be a tricky one and for sure being eco conscious is important! Donating/recycling are the best routes, or even repurposing with materials like wood or fabric if you can. Unfortunately it may be that some things truly are “trash”, and while I understand the guilt, you can ask yourself: Do I want the inside of my house to also be a landfill? …the good news is your adjusted your habits so going forward there will be much less accumulation. Keep going on your journey, you will get there! ❤️
Yes Rebecca that is a great technique! And awesome that you are a living example that even with small children, you can still live with less! Cheers 🌟
This! It is a sound I often miss in minimalism. I try to buy a lot less, and give away or sell the things I no longer need. Also I try to use the things (up) even if I like them a bit less. Also, I picked up mending, repairing and upcycling. It is a slow journey though.
Wow I really needed this video..I’ve been so stressed out lately about trivial things that are not important. Thank you for sharing your story. You’re very inspiring to me! 🤍
Thank you Bailey, and I hope you find some peace soon 🙏🏻✨
Have you watched the documentary where the guy starts of naked in his house and then goes and gets an item once a day, until he realises he has enough?
oh yeah I watched something like that too but it was a couple....
Omg no but that sounds AMAZING. Do you remember the name??
It is called My Stuff (2013) it’s a foreign film, so subtitles, but very very good.
THERE IS A UK VERSION TOO @@TraceyBergum
@doubleleterlady Thank you! I’ll have to check it out :)
Your journey is honestly super inspiring. I personally find myself coming back to the concept of minimalism again and again because I desire less distraction. I struggle with letting go of things, definitely passed down from generations previous, and my emotional attachment to things. Yet, I still come back to wanting to simplify things. Thank you for sharing your journey with us and showing us it is possible to make those changes!
Yes change and evolution are always possible Kyleigh! Keep listening to your heart and take some courageous first steps and then momentum will build! I know sentimental items can be the hardest, but remember that the memories are in YOU, not the thing ;)
My 10y.o daughter last night was cleaning her room and decided to go into organize mode which meant purge mode and I was astonished to see how much she let go of. For a long time now she has seen me letting go of things slowly but surely and we often go through her things together where I ask her what does she value and love and need and what is she ready to let go of so she’s become accustomed to the practice. So I asked her at the end of it all last night, why are you letting go of so much this time and she smiled at me with her bright sweet face and told me straight like kids do best:
“I don’t want to take care of it anymore”
And I grinned with pride haha as we both laughed. At 10 she now has a valuable concept for the rest of her life that I honestly quite wish I had the wisdom for at such a young age.
So I love hearing about your childhood and how you too were aware of the benefits of less. 😊
Ah what an amazing gift you have given your daughter! Bravo to you 🩷🩷
What you are saying makes so much sense. It’s how I have always thought but you have said it out loud and I agree with everything you say. Thank you x
You are welcome my friend 🙏🏻🦋
This is such a statement speach ! I TOTALLY agree with you in everything...i wish i could have many fewer things than what i have right now but i've inherited the whole material life of one relative and it has been a long journey getting rid of stuff that i don't want...it takes time...but i'm getting there! I'm from Buenos Aires, Argentina...consumerism is everywhere...thanks for sharing!!
Keep plugging away you will get there!
I love seeing so many people commenting that they are also finding happiness in minimalism. It helps people in so many different ways which ultimately will help the planet from being polluted with so much stuff 💚🌱
Yes!! It’s so much more than an aesthetic- it’s a collective shift in consciousness that can greatly shift our impact on the planet to a more harmonious place 🌿
love this. things and stuff is like layers on top of my skin and my subconscious literally holding me down. needed to feel light and frreeeeee.
One thing at a time and you will get there! Sometimes it takes some courage and getting out of your comfort zone, like any new thing in life, but once you start you will gain momentum and transformation in imminent!!
Love, love, loved this video. Thank you so much! I loved the analogy between nature & what we really need. ❤❤❤❤
Thank you Linda 🙏🏻🌿
Last of the Mohicans is my favorite movie! 😊
I’ve watched it more times than I can count- I love it so much ❤️❤️❤️
You are super inspiring and I absolutely love your vibe 🙏✨️
Thank you!! 🌻
Thank you for sharing your story. I look forward to applying that lifestyle for myself. Unfortunately, I live with my compulsive, narcissistic elderly mother, who, among many things, is also a hoarder. I embrace a clutter-free lifestyle because of the traumatic experiences of living with someone who has always been abnormal. She is 83 now, and I hate to say that I am just waiting. To be fair, she was never a very good person to begin with, so please don't think of me as much of a monster. She has always been someone who everyone has to bear. I think I became a workaholic because it keeps me away from returning to a place that is supposed to be for rest and peace of mind.
I’m sorry you are in a difficult living situation. That is really an act of deeper love and compassion to be caring for someone who has caused you pain. Keep doing what you can with your own things 🙏🏻
Being 83 years old, your mother would have been born during WW2 & the Great depression. I imagine the programming of those times & the experiences she may have had during her childhood in those times would more than likely have been somewhat difficult & therefore may have hugely impacted on her life & her behaviours & decisions she has made. I'm not discounting your own experiences, though I think it's helpful to sometimes look deeper into why somebody is the way they are & unfortunately it quite often involves their own experiences of trauma.
@ren8240 yes you are 100% accurate in this 🙏🏻
I appreciate everything that you’re saying. I too would like to stop consuming trash tv shows and shopping as entertainment. I have been making small strides which I am happy about. Can you give me more examples on what you do for entertainment/relaxation after you get home from work or what you like to do on weekends? Im a stay at home mom and I actually feel like I have too much time on my hands and I don’t know what to do with my energy. If I’m not with my daughter I’m on my phone or watching something. Even when doing my makeup I feel like I have to be listening to something. Anyways, I’d appreciate your input. Thanks!:)
Being a mom is hard work! So finding time for yourself to relax is important. I enjoy very simple activities like listening to music, reading a book, meditation and, most importantly, being in nature. I used to have bad anxiety but cutting out screen time and actually spending a lot of time in silence just resting really helped me balance out :)
I’m so glad I came across to this video as I was stressing so bad in finding a cute chunky reading chair, lamp, little table etc…when you made me realized I don’t need all of that, I can just read in my bed or sofa. ❤
Often times when we are feeling lack if we take a second to breath we can realize we have all that we need 💖
You inspired me to return an Amazon purchase that I regretted. Thank you!
Haha awesome!
Discovered your channel a coupla days ago and I really love your content. I don't like labels but I consider myself an "essentialist", and don't like to spend money on useless stuff. I went through years where I used to spend a lot on all kinds of stuff, but moving from one place or country to another was an absolute nightmare, and I moved a lot trust me! So years ago I got rid of almost all of my stuff and have been living a simpler life since. I still declutter a lot these days as I'm living with my elderly, sick mother and this apartment needs constant decluttering 'cause she used to like buying and keeping loads of stuff! But I'm proud to say I own very few things now, and that makes me feel free.
Ciao from Italy 😊
Ciao to Italy!! I have been to Rome a couple times- you have such a beautiful and magical county. And that is so awesome to hear you have found a life of simplicity that works for you. Our parents are of a different generation and can definitely be prone to collecting a lot of things- that is really sweet that you are helping your mother 💜💜
I am watching this video again , this is so inspiring for me. I look around my house and feel trapped by all my stuff. I remember a time when I was single and I only had little furniture in a four bedroom apartment. I never felt lighter. I am trying to get rid of more of my things sell them donate them or give them to friends. I just wanted to thank you so much for your inspiring videos. ❤️❤️
So glad you are finding inspiration here and yes break free. You are not “required” to own anything. F**k the rules and expectations. Follow your heart 🩵
at 19:00 I got excited to see you criticize capitalism, but you didn't. Why are you pushing the guilt onto the working class, who struggles so much to survive, instead of correctly blaming the capitalists and their endless greed? A lifestyle change into minimalism is not the revolution we need to both protect the environment and end world hunger. We need political and collective action instead.
at 20:00 I realized you are talking from a privileged position - you live in the imperial core, but I still don't think that's an excuse for your lack of class consciousness. Most people from where I come from (third world country) can't live without 90% of what they have, they live paycheck to paycheck or in debt. There is a need for more things. Minimalism can't change the world or save the environment alone.
yeah, I don't think that "dollar voting" works.
Anyway, I still appreciate your content and I think you are doing an otherwise great work
Isn't it funny how we remember the names of those who wronged/hurt us, even years later? Mine was Zhenya Whittington. 😅 I love your lifestyle! I consider myself something of a minimalist but want to be more so.
Keep following that thread!
@@Exploravore Thank you! I plan to! Have a blessed day. ✨
I’ve been on the minimal path around 8th/9th grade, (22y/o) and one thing I’m struggling with is RUclips consumption. Sometimes I wonder do we get rid of all this stuff so we have nothing to do? No hobbies like sewing , crafts. My job was making my own body butters candles exfoliants and vegan healthy food. It requires pots (a lot) excess jars for products and labels, food containers, a ton of oat flour ect. Flexibility and essentialism is important. Especially when you work for yourself and need more to create for your community.
Yes absolutely- that is AWESOME you make your own food and healthy products! So of course that will require some extra materials to have on hand, but that is a good thing! And balance is key. There is some great content out there on RUclips that can be very helpful, it’s just about staying aware that you aren’t getting too addicted or distracting yourself ;)
This resonates with me. I remember being incredibly overwhelmed with all the things that were around me when I was very young. I remember trying to get rid of things that I didn’t want and I wasn’t allowed. We moved when I was 9 and I only took one bag, my mother wanted me to bring more 😅
They say are child selves already know who we are to become 😉
@@Exploravorethat’s so true!
I just need one chair, a bed, computer/monitor and xbox and somewhere to put my books. I'm a guy though lol. Think it's easier for guys to live with less
Meh I disagree I think that’s cultural conditioning- ANYONE can live with less if they choose ;)
Of course :)@@Exploravore
Thank you for sharing! Beautiful soul
Thank you Heather 🙏🏻✨
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! So much love and energy and inspiration! You glow! Continue to inspire and motivate and make think other ppl. I am not minimalist but i am interested in this and don't like much things around me but i have still super much to rethink about. I have moved around a bit last much years so i got rid of much things and i loved to move! But now last 4 years i am settled and I have got a wonderful baby and with this started to flow much stuff cuz i even have no idea what is needed cuz its my first baby. So it kicked me to search again about minimalism to be more motivated to have all as i want but not how it "flows". I want less and less things to be with, instead of sort/clean/wash things for baby. You are right. Everyone around and especially marketing decides for us but it doesn't have to be so. Minimalism is not supported by marketing cuz it don't bring any money to them. I love how you talk about nature and beauty of it and that everyone can start with tiny steps to take care of our planet. Its what i have in my mind but ofc got trapped in this "things" cage. Thank you again for sharing your experience and inspire! You are magical. Sending much love back to you and everyone else ♥
Thank you so much for these kind words Anna, and congratulations on your new baby! I think being a mother is the hardest job in the world. Of course you will need things to take care of your baby, but it’s all about listening to your soul and not society. Make your own rules! Only you know what’s best for you and your Baby 💕
I was just at a pharmacy getting my son's prescription....looking around at all the rows of things and thought "She would not have any of this stuff" 😂
Hahahaha nope definitely not 🤣 I think bandaids can be useful lol but that’s about it
I totally get a high from returning things too lol.
It’s kind of similar to when you have plans but secretly don’t want to go and then your friend cancels first and you get to stay home and hibernate 😄
Me2😊
@@Exploravoreindeed 😮
I was in an apartment for 2 years, moved in without a moving truck because I didn’t have a lot. I just needed my dad’s truck to fit my mattress. By the end of the move, I needed a 15 foot moving truck to fit all of my things, and I had to hire movers to move all my things into my 3rd floor apartment. As I unpacked, I got rid of a large chunk of my belongings, including probably more than half my clothing. My goal by the end of my year lease is to be able to fit all of my belongings into my Subaru plus a U-Haul trailer that I can pull behind me. It’s nothing near your level of minimalism, but I think that’s what will work for me since I am big into the zero-waste movement. My hobbies involve keeping a lot of different sized jars on hand because I do a lot of fermentation, it’s just so expensive to buy high quality kraut at the store. I also have a small personal apothecary for my herbs and homemade tinctures. It’s hard wanting to be minimal and sustainable at the same time!
Those are wonderful and very healthy hobbies to have 💖 No need to think of being on “my level”- everyone is on their own unique journey. Just keep leaning in to the balance that feels right for you 💕💕
I love your videos so much! I watched everything in two days) They are very inspiring and show the way to move on! Thank you!❤ I will be happy to watch your videos further) I’m looking forward to it 🪻🤗
So glad you are inspired ❤️🔥❤️🔥
Omg I get such a high from returning an item! Yesss 😂
It’s literally the best 😄😄
🙏 Thank you I hope your impact on Earth Will be huge.
Thank you 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
It's really nice hearing others being more minimalist like with their behaviour as a child/teen.
Stumbled upon this video; fantastic, love it!
Thank you Erin! 🩵
Popple!
Dude, I remember Popples!
I haven’t found anyone else who wanted less things as a kid, this is music to my ears.
Hell yes ❤️🔥 And popples were so damn cute ☺️
Minimalism is the best way to live in my opinion. I don't want any more stuff and only buy what I need. I constantly look for things to donate or get rid of because I love the way it makes me feel. Less truly is more!
Hell yes Linda that is awesome to hear 😊
Same here
I m so glad to see your video!!!! I m totally with you
Thank you Kate!! And yay team minimal!! 🩵
Yes, I want to be more intentional with my purchases.Many gems dropped here today, very helpful. Right after I watched your video, I was inundated to see how much influencer content there is that all promote consumption. I will be doing a purge and only keep those that bring value, like yours. Thank you for your fresh perspective ❤
Thank you for watching Carmen, and good luck on your purge! Remember we are always in the driver’s seat for our lives 🙂
This is my second video I have watched of yours, and every word you said I felt was straight out of my everyday thoughts. As a child I never wanted things. My mother bought me stuff (she's a stuff person but I'm converting her to minimalism now). I thought your home was refreshing! We have 3 kids and wow, that has made me really think about stuff. The over consumption of kids stuff is nauseating. We started bank accounts for them instead and encourage contributions to that these days. Beautiful video. Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed and yes I agree the amount of stuff for kids can get way out of hand. Glad you are setting a positive example for yours 🩷
I am sorry in advance for this long comment but I really want to thank you. I have been on an (up and down) journey of self healing and discovery since the beginning of the year which has lead me to your channel. The past two years, I had become the antithesis of who I am inside and who my highest self is - needy, depressed, shallow, judgemental, jealous, duplicitous etc. - and after ending a rather toxic relationship I really wanted to look at WHY and I believe this need for more more more and 'if I have this then such and such will find me attractive' or this inability to BE who I am does stem from buying too much into the mainstream culture and what we are sold. Having stepped away for the past 6 months, I am finding myself to be happier, more of the person I want to be - friendly, kind, supportive, thoughtful - all my Artemis and Hestia qualities (I read this book also) were being suppressed by the thought of 'this is just what adult life is like and this is what it is to be a woman' and in reality, trying to hang onto a man (or anything!) who doesn't even have the qualities I would find essential in a man anyway. I no longer am thinking of any men when I make choices in my life. Since finding your channel I have been really inspired to just live my truth and live in accordance to my values, to find that little girl inside of me who loved spending all day outside playing with leaves and flowers and reading and solitude - and shed the skin of this I guess image of who I feel I should be. IDK if this makes sense, but thank you from the bottom of the heart, you have inspired me like no other to look inward and be authentic. It doesn't look exactly like your lifestyle - but it shouldn't, because it's authentically me ♡
This was absolutely beautiful and extremely touching. Thank you for sharing your story- it’s comments like these that inspire me to keep going. I’m so glad you are finding your way ✨🦋
wow new subscriber and this vlog hit me! So many great points and I think i will need to watch it several times. Great video
Thank you, and welcome to the family here! 🌸🩵🌸
I got rid of a bunch of things this morning. This afternoon I found your channel. It was meant to be.
Nice! And welcome to the family here! The Universe is always looking out 😉
Thank you so much for sharing your history, very interesting and I needed to hear this.
Thank you for watching!! And I wish you well on whatever journey this message ignited for you 🙏🏻
Thank you for sharing your story ♥ with regard to personal responsibility and climate change, I think that only holding individual consumers responsible is an ineffective way to create change. We ultimately do need governments to create legislation. One example I can think of is the change in legislation regarding plastic bags here in the UK. If you asked people before the change, everyone thought that it was a good idea to bring your own bag, but there was no real incentive to do so. But when the law mandated there be a charge for a plastic bag, the use of them dropped by over 80% across the country. Of course though, governments don't exist in a vacuum - they legislate on issues that are important to their voters (in theory), so they can get re-elected. The more people that start caring about their environmental impact, the better chance of change we have. So there definitely is an element of personal responsibility, but I think to say that this all comes down to personal responsibility is an unnuanced view. Personal action, if done by enough people, becomes collective action, which influences the government.
Love this video though, it's interesting to hear how you came into this lifestyle
For sure the government can eventually affect change, but as you stated that still starts from personal action, which then multiplies ;) Glad you enjoyed 💙
I’m a minimalist! 😊 And you are so correct about the peace of mind and freedom that comes with it. Many people are over simulated by the media and consumerism. I love your videos and looking forward to following your journey ❤
Glad you are enjoying the vibes here my friend 💙💜
Super!!!
Thank you for this story. I lam nosy, and I enjoy learning the back stories and history.
While I am far from ultra minimalist, I find deep inspiration in these videos.
I agree with you on the consumption! But our government -- regardless of who is "in power" -- has no interest legislation to slow our destruction. Many of us (myself included ( are cogs in a corporate machine, and our spending keeps us enslaved to it. And I realize that many, many people are working several jobs and are struggling financially.
Assuming you're willing to share, I would be interested to hear how you found your authentic personal style.
Yes it’s easy to feel like a cog in a wheel, but we DO have the power to act for ourselves and take our lives into our own hands! Even if it’s just starting with the smallest of steps… And thank you for that idea on the personal style- I’ll add that to the list :)
I have been minimalist for the last 5 years (not as extreme as you though! 🤪). I also watched that "minimalist" netflix movie and had a mindshift change when I began to wonder why I felt the need to have so much stuff. I think I was brought up to believe that "more is better" - Why would anyone want less? It also happened at a time I was moving so I got rid of alot of stuff at that time. I live in a 1 bedroom apartment which is plenty of space for me, but still sometimes people ask me when I'm going to buy something bigger ??? I have just finished paying off my mortgage, why would I want to borrow more money and get a bigger place I don't need? People seem to believe in our western society that we must always be striving for more, and bigger and better - rather then being content with what you currently have.
It’s crazy how deep the conditioning goes.. Congrats to you for paying off your mortgage and staying out of the “more” traps..
I have never related to someone so much in my life. I moved into my first solo apartment at 30 and everyone in my life pushed al these things that I neeeeeded to have to fill the space. I move a lot and travel as do you. After being in this space for almost a year, I look around and get very overwhelmed with how much has accumulated more so from others gifts rather than my own hand. Every time I’ve moved, I’ve got rid of so much that I could just pack up my SUV and then go. That’s not how this move feels like it’ll be :(
People love to push their standards and values on others so that they can validate their own choices and existence. But you can politely say “thanks but no thanks” and live your own truth 💜💜
I just learned that HSP has several subcategories, and one of those is “aesthetic.”
Makes sense!
I have just started my extreme minimalism journey. Do you guys have any tips on consuming less?
Congrats on starting! I have a few vids that may help: 1. How I became an ultra minimalist: my story
2. How I cured my addiction to shopping
3. My top 10 decluttering tips from a minimalist pro
4. How I broke my addiction to stimulus
Hope these help 💚💚💚
I love what you say about Noah’s Ark - two of everything in the kitchen. That helped me a lot with my recent move.
In 2017, I started my minimalist journey. In 2020, I gave everything away and all I had fit in a rented Toyota Corolla.
I continued to purge with the idea of getting down to one carry-on. I never got to that point and just moved to a studio.
I’m carefully curating what I bring in and want to keep it simple so I can be FREE. I decided to keep my walls clear too. There’s enough stimulus outside.
I have a disdain for American excess. Although I see Black Friday sales creeping to Europe.
The last several years I choose experiences over things.
I recently discovered your channel and it really resonates.
Years ago I volunteered for Junior Achievement and the first grade class had a segment about Needs and Wants. I realized many adults don’t know the difference.
I get overwhelmed by too many choices. I love simplicity and am still striving for my perfect capsule wardrobe. My last space was less than 100 square feet with 27 inches of hangar space.
You’re right, we can make better choices and I’m happier with less too. I’m not controlled by things. There’s beauty in simplicity. 💜. Thanks for the inspiration.
That was beautifully stated 🩵🩵
A fur and a rock 🤣 Monet and Van Gogh....nice. But nothing can compare to nature....agreed 🌿
My father bought 4 pairs of speakers and a music system, I never use them but they make me feel very put togheter and grown up. 😂😂
Haha oh I’ve been there. I used to have this 6 foot tall huge fake plant that made me feel veeerry grown up 😌🤣🤣
Loved hearing you walking us through your thought processes on what motivated you to go down this road and your aha moments. One of mine was from constantly reading my favorite kind of books that involve people in covered wagons moving west with all their possessions and family in one wagon. Each female had pretty much one dress that did everything, looked good, and they took good care of it. If it got torn, they sewed it up. They may have had one special trinket that the entire family valued and treasured and passed down to the children. I want that kind of relationship with my things! My journey has very much been like the "onion", I have peeled back one layer at a time so that it hasn't been so noticeable but when I came across photos of us in our house from a few years ago, I was shocked! Especially with the amount of toys we had for our son.
Lauren we are soul sisters on that- I am OBSESSED with frontier times. And you are spot on, when traveling like that, you could only take very little, and so it was truly valued and taken care of. Thats awesome you have come so far on your journey- keep going with that onion 🧅🧅
@@Exploravore what do you think of the movie Braveheart? I watch that movie and think- wow, what the heck am I doing with my life? haha! Love that its also based of real historial events/people like Mohicans. Inspirational!
@laurenoehme5751 You read me like a book! That is also in my top 5 of all time love it so much.
Great video. How do I decide how many I truly need of t shirts pants sweatpants etc?
Only you can truly know that number. A good place to start is enough pants/shirts for one week (ie 7 of each) or “uniforms” for different activities- ie one workout outfit, one lounging outfit, one dress up outfit etc. But we all have different needs. Try to keep pieces that are multifunctional and can be dressed up or down and also mixed and matched with other pieces in your wardrobe 💜
I’m so enjoying your videos. I think our society trains us to be consumers; when we are finally able to quiet the noise, we don’t need as much as we’ve been told. It was eye opening to me when I took everything down off my bedroom walls (except for one meaningful painting, that my mom gave me, her last birthday gift to me before she passed). With that space, I felt like I could exhale. That I could think. That I could breathe. And so I continued...what could I do without? What did I really need? Thank you for your videos 🙏
Ah this is awesome to hear Tamsen! Glad you are awakening to this new spaciousness. But yes absolutely keep that very special painting- it’s all about cherishing the few things that truly add value to our life 💖
Thank you for sharing your deep story so articulately.
You are most welcome 🙏🏻🌸
I really appreciate how you share your truths, but without condemning others. You could very easily take a holier than thou approach, and when you don't, I find it so incredibly refreshing. You are definitely GOALS when it comes to purging & minimizing. I find in my own life, all of my and my family's belongings completely overwhelm me that I don't know where to begin. Please keep making content! I would enjoy any and all tips on how just to get freaking started. ❤
Thank you for those kind words Gretta 💕 I know it can be very overwhelming, but if you hold the intention you can get there! I have a video titled “Top 10 decluttering tips from a minimalist pro”- if you want to check it out there’s some tips in there to start tackling the beast ;)
Thank you so much for that autobiographical journey you shared with us. I am a guy, so you can imagine some parts of your journey did not touch home, and still so many points felt very real to me. Shortened version of my story: I grew up in the wilderness which allows me to realized such things as the fact that everything being paved is not natural. Despite growing up in the wilderness, my parents were probably borderline hoarders. At 17 I joined the US Army, and in just one day Uncle Sam made me a minimalist. I did not appreciate it at the time, but I think in a way that did start my journey years later. You see although not everything about being in the Army is rosy, there is one thing that did impress me.... We were super efficient and effective. We easily did a lot. One we were in good shape, and two we had few items to distract us. Exit the Army, and a couple years later it occurred to me that the lack of stuff we had accounted for some of the good points of Army life. I did not know what minimalism was but in college I realized I wanted very few items, like when I was in the Army, so that I could focus. Life did challenge that lite road for quite a while after college, but now I am back on the path to being minimalist. I am far from an Ultra minimalist at this point in time, but I am quite into the journey. This probably does not highlight the similarities in our stories, because the similarities are more in the feeling that having too much stuff causes. I too feel trapped by having too much clutter, and freedom when I let go of something that no longer serves me. I guess the closest factual point in the story is that I lived on Scottsdale Rd in Tempe once.
Joseph thank you for sharing this! We are all connected and have our own unique stories to tell! First off, thank you for serving in the Army- that is a selflessness I think few people hardly understand. And that makes total sense- I have an Uncle who was in the Army and we also have talked about how it forces you into essentialism and how you can actually survive off of very little. I spent my teens and early 20s training for the Olympics so I can relate- life revolved around intense training and I had just a few essentials with me. (Similarities can always be found under the surface 😉) That’s great you are staying true to your minimalist path- I’m sure your discipline from the Army makes keeping to that fairly easy :) Also nice to have a guy here! I love my crew of Ladies, but all are welcome here ❤️❤️ Cheers ✨
Wow i relate to this so much. Currently decluttering to get back to my true self , wish me luck! Thank you for sharing...so lovely.
Awesome so glad to hear that! And happy decluttering!! 😁
Thanks so much for sharing 😊 This was so incredibly inspiring!
Thank you for watching! So glad you enjoyed 😊💜
I’m a new follower and this video was really fascinating - about your life leading up to this point, and why you live the way you do. I love the minimalists.
Thank you, and welcome to the fam here! 💗💗
@toniescudero-co6vx Thank you! And welcome to the family here ✨🩵✨
Thank you for this video. A lot of the things you talk about really resonate with me
So glad to hear that! 💕
I totally agree.
I identify with this a lot... The only thing for which I could be a maximalist would be in building a beautiful garden... I don't think I own a lot of stuff, I touch every object on a regular basis (except decor) but I still feel overwhelmed with the little things.
Gardens are of nature and can feed you- I in no way consider that “stuff” or “needless possessions”. It requires some tools and supplies to upkeep a garden, but this is life- it’s a beautiful thing to have one 💚🌿
@@Exploravore I meant the maximalist look I guess, where you have things to see everywhere, but in nature it's just peaceful to look at. But I do feel overwhelmed by the number of plants I have sometimes, because it takes a lot of time to know their needs, water them, treat pests etc 😅
@fireflythinking1290 ah yes I understand. I used to love having every corner filled with beauty and color, but as I removed things I began to see the beauty of open space and how one thing can often make a more powerful statement than a group of many 💜
Love your story!
Thank you Lacy 😊💕
I feel this so so deeply. It’s like cognitive dissonance and if you go to sleep with that for years it wears on you I feel.
Definitely. It’s imperative to live your truth or it will eat at your soul 💜
Great video.Thanks 😘🥰
Thank you for watching!
❤
This was great.
Thank you! 🌻
Wish I had known all these concepts when I was younger. ❤🏴🇨🇦
Learning and growing is part of the fun in life ;)
Thank youuuuu ❤🇦🇺
I began minimalism in 2006 when my ex left. It began slowly. With getting ridnof everything that was his that he left. Then slowly over time getting rid of things that didn't "serve" me or just plain didnt want around anymore. It did make me feel so much lighter. I hate clutter! Cannot stand it. Fast-forward, now remarried. My husband has so much stuff and it drives me crazy! Definitely messes with my energy. I am constantly decluttering, he just doesn't know it😅. Watching this video makes me want to go home and declutter some stuff😊
lol yes it’s always a balance when there is partnership involved 🤪💜
Great video, thank you! 🌱
Thank you for watching Nina!
I believe that it was Fumio Sasaki in his book that says something like, "Everyone is born a minimalist". And i really believe that was true for me. Watching my newborn (and now toddler) it is amazing how little he needs to be happy. I am trying to get back to that place of contentment and peace. 🕊️ Thanks for sharing your story, I know you are helping many people.
I love that quote thank you.. And how wonderful you are raising your little one in values of simplicity- you are doing a good thing for the world 💜
Thank you for sharing your story. What I like the most from this post is the way you clearly state all the things you gain from being an ultra minimalist: connection, being of service, time in nature or with those you love etc. Isn't it amazing how most of us started with these things, but we've allowed ourselves be sold the lie that lots of stuff is better.
I'm on a journey of minimalism, it's taken many years, but I am happy with the progress I've made. I've just recently gone much more minimal with closing, and I'm now understanding what true minimalists say that it's not until you go far enough in removing the excess, that you can really experience the full benefits. What areas in the home do you recommend to focus on first, to fully experience the benefits of minimalism?
It totally depends on your home and what things you have. Starting with the easy and obvious things that you can let go of is good- then you can start to see the next layer. If it’s a “just in case” item or hasn’t been used in 6 months, let it go. See where you have decorations and how using less would make more of a statement (not every single wall or corner needs to be decorated). Hope this helps 💜
Thanks!
Thank you so much I appreciate this! 🩷✨
THAT bloody Robin Greenwood....I hate mean girls. Good for you for having this healthy lifestyle. I'm becoming an extreme minimalist and I am slowly teaching my 7 year old daughter to be the same. Things don't always bring happiness, but experiences and adventures do. Saving up for a van to convert and live in. I don't own a house or flat and I'm absolutely fine with that. If a war starts in my country, many houses will be destroyed and I doubt that insurance companies will fully or hardly reimburse for the loss so better live in a tiny house on wheels and get the fuck out if things go sour. I'm a nomad too, anyway.
Awesome to hear that you are living your truth and teaching the true value of simplicity to your little one 💖💖
To complement your excellent video: the ultimate minimalist - mathematician Paul Erdos, and the book "Simplify Your Life"
I’ll check those out thank you!
Wonderful ! I have also always hated clutter. As a child You would have possibly been my one friend who might have understood me. As it turned out I was the child of many who helped prep food ,clean after everyone both indoors and out. I did yard work even thogh I frequently ended up in emergency rooms do to hay feaver and asthma and allergic reactions to stings. I remember wanting to finish trimming a tree before going to the hospital and getting heat stroke. I made the entire house hold of beds and did every ones laundry and cleaned toilets and droors and closets All because I Wanted to !!! I seemed to have been born a Neat Freak ! Cousins and family friends always knew I would give them any possession because I only valued photos and a few sentimental items. At the old age of 65 Now I am more acceptable. I never even hoarded money because it was always so much fun to share. I was always considered peculiar but they loved the fact I did not want to hold on to any thing and wanted any one to take what they wanted so I could keep a clean and un cluttered enviornment which brought me joy. 😊
I’m glad you know yourself and have stayed in that truth. Sounds like you have given much of your life to service as well, which is a beautiful thing 🩵
Such a FANTASTIC video with such relevant points about consumerism. Plus I love your backstory!
Glad you enjoyed 🥰
Last week I've got such high feelings by returning my Mocka maker. Such feeling ...
Hahaha HELL YES 💥
👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼🩷
Just discovered your channel! It’s so great! I feel very similar to you in regards to minimalism. I felt this way since childhood as well. I just didn’t realize it was part of being minimalistic.
Welcome to the family here!! ✨💚✨