My favorite tip that I’ve learned over the past 13 years of minimalism is that you can like something without having to have it. Appreciate it and click off. 99 times out of 100, I’ve forgotten about it 20 minutes later.
This is so true! If I have stoped shopping, but still enjoy occassionally browsling home decor stores but with the attitude I am only there to appreciate the diverse and creative ideas that exist. Or get ideas how to re-arrange the stuff I do have.
@@Mimulus2717 The home decor store is like a gallery or museum for you. And you're still a legitimate shopper because you might see something you might want a year or two later, or something you can recommend to somebody else. Or if you don't see anything like that, maybe this store isn't worth returning to, but you had to do the research to find out.
Yes! Along the same lines keep at list of the pretty things you see and think you want. Then walk away. 99 percent of the time I look at the list a few days later and think “nahhh…don’t want/need”. Helps a lot!
I love "It's okay to kind of half-ass certain things in life :)" Before Pinterest, TH-cam, and Facebook - that was totally the norm. Magazines may have presented beautiful kitchens, storage, bathrooms, etc. but people knew that this magazine ideal was not 'real' and did not emulate it. A spice drawer was a mix of bags, bottles, packets, etc. tossed into someplace accessible and that was 'normal.' Now people are comparing themselves with online images that seem to be from people's 'real' homes, but they are just as groomed for image management as those magazines of old. This is going to be my new motto: I will half-ass all the things that do not matter! Thank you Vera. Love your videos - they make me feel so calm.
Sometimes I watch your videos not for specfic tips, but because your delivery and non-hype attitude is an uplifting way to start the morning, and gives me general motivation for my next step in decluttering.
I love watching my husband, he is so simple in a good way and happy and joyful. He does not complicate things at all. If something needs to be done he does it. If not he does not. Of course sometimes it is irritating because I am so dutiful and I am sure the world will collapse if I dont do the laundry and he does not see the problem ;) But I've learned I can learn a lot from my husband (and all men, they somehow have some different attitute towards life) ❤
Thank you Vera - this came at a perfect time. I’ve been so immensely stressed and overwhelmed the last few weeks and your videos always manage to calm my mind and give me new ways to process everything. 💜 Forever grateful for the day I stumbled upon your channel. It’s a real favorite :,)
Aw thank you for your kind comment 🤗🥰💕 I'm so sorry to hear you've been feeling stressed and overwhelmed lately. You must have a lot on your plate. I hope you'll also have some opportunities for self care and rest, remember that it's okay and you deserve to tend to your needs 🌱🍵 Sending you a big hug
Maybe 'optimal' is simply another name for 'perfect'...and most of the time, good enough, is good enough 😉. Love your videos, they have helped me to understand that I am good enough!
Wedding: You can go to the courthouse and be married, without a "complicated" wedding. That's what we did 31 years ago. That's what our close friends did 35 years ago. I'm so glad we did it!!! Sitting on the floor: I do this every morning, drinking my coffee and petting my dogs. Been doing it every morning for over 10 years.
It is so strange, 30 years ago and more minimalism did not exist, but for certain occasions people acted in an extraordinary free way... now difficult not to pay for a wedding planner... io la chiamo la legge del contrario...
I feel like I change my mind a little every day lol. There's something cozy about having a couple cookbooks. It makes cooking more enjoyable, for me anyway.
One thing I’ve had to change about myself being a vegetarian (I strived to be a vegan even). I know it’s possibly controversial because you are a vegan, but the actual food does not align with my body. Tons of beans and veggies were making me feel absolutely sick and miserable, so I chose to include more meat in my diet. I still believe in the principles of veganism (treating all life with care and helping the planet) so I try to show it in other aspects of my life. And veganism is MUCH more than just a diet
Thank you for sharing your experiences Molly and thank you for trying to be kind to the animals and help the planet! When it comes to veganism, our bodies are all different and our body might react to foods in different ways. I also have to make sure I'm not overdoing it when it comes to beans (I have IBS) but with how my vegan diet is now, my body feels great. :) I think in the end, we don't need a small handfull of people doing veganism perfectly, we need many, many people just doing their best and trying to reduce the amount of animal products they consume as much as they reasonably and realistically can. That would have an enormous impact and I think it's great you're doing your part. And yes, like you said, it's about much more than a diet too :)
I was vegetarian and vegan for many years and it didn’t agree with me either despite being highly educated on nutrition and doing all the “right” things. Also, things people said would magically improve for me didn’t, like acne. I felt horrible most of the time. I changed my diet and now just listen to how my body feels and it’s so much better. I still don’t eat a ton of meat and a balance works for me. But even things like not eating tons of heavy foods makes a difference with me. I have to be sure not to let other people influence my food choices because especially as a woman everyone has an opinion about your food choices.
I was vegan for 5 years. It was positive in many ways for me, but in conjuction with binge eating disorder, I was massively struggling on a daily basis with food. It was a huge identity crisis when I finally allowed myself to change my mind. I STILL 3 years later feel uncomfortable telling people who knew me as a vegan that I no longer am as I was SO adamant it would be my lifestyle for the rest of my life. I also never want to bash such a meaningful way of being. But finally healing my relationship with food and my body feels so much better including animal products daily. It's like my brain cannot have rules about not eating certain things- it flips a very unhealthy switch in me. It really does feel like you failed at something when you change your mind even if you know it is absolutely for the best for you.
@sandyobrien5686 thank you Sandy! It has been a learning experience to do what is right for myself and not worry so much how it appears to the outside world ❤️
I was always forced, as a child to be what was thought to be perfect. Doing thing way beyond my capacity. It is good to a certain point, but in older age, inwardly, hard wiring is still there in ways that are still uncomfortable. I can relate to so much of what you talk about. Lack of major decisions in areas because of fear has destroyed my life because they set me on a course that can not be changed. Procrastination, etc. I am still going forward, yet it’s not enjoyable, just doing it, knowing I was to do something else. Like you said, it is personal and individual and impossible for others to know someone else’s life. It’s good to know other struggle in some of the same areas. Thank you for these videos. You a a delight to listen to.❤️
Dearest Vera, I want to congratulate you on your fine self-awareness and your wisdom. You, in all honesty, are one of the prettiest young women I have ever seen - your peaches and cream complexion, your eyes, your smile and your beautiful hair! You truly have been blessed. I will be 78 in August and I can tell you for sure, that my best decade was my 40’s. You have your whole life ahead of you and it will be a very long time before you will ever have to worry about your looks! Keep up your intelligent, positive attitude - and I wish you all the happiness in the world! 🙋♀️🇺🇸🥰🌷‼️
Vera: today I sent my friend in the Netherlands the link to your channel telling her that ‘this girl is my most fav in Holland, that’s beside you ‘ ☺️😘… and I meant it (we are Iraqis originally) - I wanted to give you a hug while listening to / watching you in this video. You were so raw and emotional during most of its parts, while navigating through ‘the words and thoughts’ in this one. My top favourite video so far!! YES!!!! Please a second part, no pressure, of course. Much Love 💕 from another sensitive girl in Canada 🇨🇦
I have learned so much from your videos! For me, the idea of "Dan-sha-ri" has changed my life a lot. Probably you already know but it's a Japanese word for decluttering, or more like letting go. I feel like my life is getting simpler little by little, year after year. Please please post the 2nd version of this video! Big love from Japan.
In addition to all the great truths you presented, your videos of the water drew me in totally. I was born near the Ocean and now live in the mountains. I miss the Ocean and the beach and the smells so much that seeing these just relaxed me so much. I thank you so much.
I put this video on in the morning before work, expecting your usual calm & useful topics. But I was taken aback by how profound your advice was here. It felt like you were speaking directly to me, especially about being open to every day becoming a new beginning. It was the strangest serendipity! I'm going through something at the moment and it's good to remind myself that we all are allowed to change our minds, with grace & respect for other people along the way. Thank you Vera 🙏💙
Start with small steps if something is difficult, Rome is also not build in one day after all😊 and like a zen-monk, focus on one thing at the moment. Hope all is well and remember, you all matter and are enough.
I used to worry greatly about wasting time. I think I still do. I worry that if my life is not filled with things to do, places to go, people to meet, money to be made, things to be won, then it is somehow a wasted life and time is running out. Everybody seems to be running around these days. Nobody happy. Stress, discontent, disatisfied, fear of missing out. Its exhausting and often driven by technology and the idea that competition breeds winners. I dont think I want to be a winner. What does it get you? More stress and strain, more work, less time for the simple things and more anxiety about failing to live up to your own and society's fantasies about what success means. Seems like everybody literally wants to climb mountains these days, ticking them off on a list until they have all been conquered and leaving a trail of waste and rubbish behind them as they climb those dangerous crags and slopes just to stick that little flag on a pile of rocks on the summit when there is nowhere left to go. Its all so stupid and ultimately pointless since what does it actually matter if you find contentment climbing mountains or sitting in a comfortable chair staring out the window onto the garden? Who will care what you did or did not do because ultimately none of it matters one way or the other. We are born. We live. We die. The world moves on.
Indecision is often people pleasing so start listening to your gut feeling when deciding and you will feel free and will never regret a decision ~ been there
Your discussion about non-optimisation and that it's OK for things to just be OK is something that I need to embrace. Thanks for the reminder everything doesn't have to be perfect. Edit - YES, PLEASE! I would love a part 2 😊
You are right - not everything has to be optimized: streamlining for personal choice is good enough. I read Project 333 but realized that living in a four-season US state, 33 clothing items isn't practical for my life; 35-40 items would be better for my situation and something I can live with long term.
I’ve been finding a lot of the extreme clothing minimalists changing tune lately. I started noticing many in a continuous cycle of decluttering and purchasing in the attempt to have this ideal closet. Clothes wear out quickly when you repeat the same few pieces, style changes, lifestyle changes, and comfort is important. So trying to force an impractical number doesn’t make sense for everyone. I live in four seasons and just the amount of coats and shoes I need for different weather conditions and occasions makes a super tiny wardrobe impractical. I still have quite a small wardrobe compared to a lot of people but don’t stress over a total count.
My simple thing this year has been not saying yes or no. When someone asks me for a favor, I wait a couple of days before I give a final answer, that way I can really think if I want to do it or not. Last year I struggled a lot with giving my word on doing stuff I didn't want to do when the time came, and I felt miserable.
Loved #2. I have been guilty of trying to optimize so many things around my home after spending time on social media looking at all the home organization images. It's really not that important to me, and I have given it more of my time and energy that it is due.
I totally needed to hear it's ok to change my mind. And that everything does not have to be optimized!! This video really hit the spot today! Thank you so much!
In so many of the things you mentioned I recognize myself 😅. I do live my life the way I want to but if someone says something negative about it, it still hurts. I always procrastinate because of wanting to do things perfectly. I never can make a decision because of overthinking everything way too much. So I learned today that every decision is just okay and that will be the first thing I will change for myself. Thanks for this video and I would love to see a volume 2 🤍
Today’s video really resonates with me. I like my habits but sometimes it’s hard for me to change, so I’ll be more mindful to be ok with making changes…
As usual, a thought provoking inspirational video which ultimately encapsulates that life is a journey and process in which we continually learn from the choices we make and the directions we choose. God bless you and your beautiful HSP, insightful self! I get so excited when you post something (and would definitely love a part 2) ❤❤❤❤
Vera, You always have such good wisdom to share and I am so appreciative of your channel. Thank you :) I used to shop a lot. Not anymore. I avoid shopping now. When I do, I try to see things that I find beautiful as art pieces in a muesum - you can go to see it but you don't take it home. This broke my shopping additicion and now I actually dislike shopping - been years now and glad I changed. Have a lovely day
You don't always have to be doing something productive. It's ok to read a book or watch TV or take a nap or just stare out the window. You aren't living your life to impress anyone but rather to enjoy your life.
Wow! I related to the 1st point SO much. I also really struggle with this and am learning that I don't have to be so strict with myself. People don't fit perfectly into molds/ categories, and I don't have to be so all-or-nothing 😊 The other day I had the urge to dress up and put on extra makeup, for example, but then felt like this was somehow fake or "wrong", as I pride myself on being natural and down to earth...I felt like it violated my identity. But really, I am allowed to change my mind every day, in theory, if I want! Lol. So thank you for that reminder ❤ 🙌
Thank you for this video! I'd like to express my point of view about marriage: it hasn't to be necessairly complicated. Me and my husband have had a really super simple marriage choosing not to have guests, or wedding dresses, or bouquet, or cake. We chose to do it in the simplest way and to not spend money for things that in our personal opinions are not important. That allowed us to live the moment with full attention, intention and without "distractions" and lot of "we have to do this and that".
Wow! You got me with just point 1!! “ It’s OK to change your mind”, this truth hit me so deep in my heart, and instantly gave me real hope for a new beginning!! These truths were all gold and really valuable to hear and important to take on board! Thank you!
please, give us the part 2. What amazes me the most is how you bring new and fresh content about the same topic over the years. It’s really impressive and inspiring. I want to live my truth in the same way 🌱
I love your videos because you reaffirm what I already feel which is that life doesn’t need to be so serious. That your best life can be lived NOW and now at some indeterminate date when you’ve achieved whatever arbitrary goal you set
Vera, thank you for such a an insightful, inspiring, gentle conversation/video. So many of your points are spot on for me..... Make a decision, it's ok to change my ideas about things, and more. You give such good relatable examples. Thank you
Being a HSP & an empath who didn't acknowledge these traits for a long time & also felt unaccepted & misunderstood by people for the most part of my life. I feel so validated & comfy when I watch your videos. Thank you so much for being over here & sharing your insights. They're really helpful 💗😇
A way I recently tried to put my mind and body in the present when given the chance is watching and listening to birds. I find it very relaxing, calming and brings me to a mindful state
I would love to hear a part 2! I am also a perfectionist who gets in my own head way too often, so those tips will really change my perspective from now on I hope!
Vera, I am just starting to learn about living a more minimalist lifestyle, and I am so thankful for you and your channel. You have a beautiful calming yet motivating way of communicating. Thank you! And pink is a beautiful color on you! 💕
The video i needed! I'm recovering from burnout after very demanding studies and work, and i must admit that this vid is so refreshing, both the point about not needing perfection / optimization and daring to make decisions!
Good morning Vera. I personally love cookbooks and magazines with recipes. Food is such a big part of our lives and a new recipe can make it more enjoyable. I love using Pinterest, not for perfection but for the many different ideas I can incorporate into my life. There really is no normal life, just life and we need to make the best of it. Letting go of things or people because they no longer fit into our life is one of the hardest things to do. But if you are brave enough to try there is a reward. Growth. Nothing on this planet is perfect, so why try? When sitting on the floor you are viewing life from a childs perspective. Children have the greatest gift, freedom. Freedom in movement and thought. I enjoyed this video. I notice you are growing and expanding. Don't plan anything for a day and see where that day takes you. ☮️🌍🌲🌷🌷🌷🌷
Hey Vera! Great video and yes I would love a part 2 of this. What I found very insightful was the fact that life is not all about words and thoughts. It's very interesting as a HSP, I can tend to overanalyze nearly everything I do and not just feel or experience them. I think I will try looking at life as more than in my head and be in touch with other aspects! As you can see if I continue I will end up in my head😂. Thanks for the tips in this video and looking forward to next week's video! Be blessed and take care.
Thank you Vera I have always loved the dont sweat the small stuff tip. I have followed this one for a very long time. I had a "good" example of someone always sweating the small things. Life is already stressful enough without the little things getting in the way. Yes to a part 2. You have my vote.
I do highly agree with the first point because we are always changing and adapting on all sorts of levels, physical level, mental level, emotional level and spiritual level no matter what people are always changing and there altar environment as well and thats okay and we will not have been the same three years ago we evolved to be a better humans we are today and in 3 years we will evolve to be someone else completely different than what we are today and thats why minimalism and mindfulness and gratitude will help us!!!
I love your comment about half-assed things in life being good enough. It gave me a chuckle because it is so relatable...looking at the various bottles of spices on my pantry door. I'm not sure I even have two alike...but at least they're alphabetized so I can find them fast...lol
Being an HSP, I could relate to your points, so yes, part 2 please!! 🙏 I also sit on the floor sometimes when I play with my cat and sometomes I lie on my stomach to see the world with my 'cat's eyes' which is fun for me. 😁
Hi Vera thank you for your advice and tips as always ❤ I’m also an over thinker so I’m trying to turn the thinking around onto what makes me happy so I can be there more for myself, my family and friends, would love a part 2 😊
Thank you so much for #2!!! I’ve been going through this so much with my clothes, hobbies, & most recently my planner & written budget section for my planner
Oh Vera, you and your soothing videos are such a bright spot in my day. When I was working I looked down on winging it. Being fully prepared felt more professional and worthwhile. Now, I am retired, I am writing a cozy mystery. I tried to plan it out, but discovered an intense compelling to just begin writing. I later learned there are authors who are pantsters or plotters. I am a pantster when I write, I go by the seat of my pants (wing it) and Vera, as you say, joy is the key. I love it, it all flows easily. I think being creative teaches us to let go, which releases enormous power and life from within. Your art is beautiful, by the way and thank you for your gentle inspiration. I treasure it. All the best from Canada.
Thank you so much for all your kind words Vivienne, I really appreciate it 🤗❤️ I love what you shared about creativity, I've been thinking about it lately (words and thoughts, haha) and it's so true that it's such a special kind of energy that loves to flow freely. Wishing you all the best with writing your cozy mystery!!!
#10, I needed a pantry and you are absolutely correct. The time, having to deal with the “construction” stuff all over the place the dust from sanding. But it’s a need just having to deal with all the other stuff. Love your content and I get super excited when I get a notification that you posted a video. ❤️Texas
Learning to say “no”and “ let me think about that and I will get back to you,”; really learning to be intentional and protective with my time and energy, trying to put myself first..and practicing mindfulness throughout the day as well has been very helpful
I appreciate the mentioning of spice racks and drawers, as I have both an organized portion that I see and use often, and the disorganized portion that lives in a cabinet I only have to look into for refills or niche things I don't often use, like saffron. Finding a middle ground for balance was important, as my brain abhors visual clutter, but I wasn't going to lose all my spices to my brain's idiosyncrasies.
This life changing for me and can see myself watching it again and again. I will definitely need to be reminded because these habits run deep. Thank you for the wisdom and i would love❤❤ a part 2.
❤ your content. I consider less is more. Progress over perfection. It is grand having things but maintenance is very important. Regular small bursts of maintenance to me is key. Curating, honing, streamlining our things, our ways, our life style according to what we love best. William Morrison said 'Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be beautiful or believe to be useful' - William Morris. I like this idea. Ambient evening light is beautiful. Nature, God's Creation is beautiful. God is love. God first loved me. All this is lovely. Have a great day. x
Number three also stood out to me, just make a choice and take a leap. I find myself trying to make sure everything is thought of and all aspects are examined before I make a decision. Right now I am in the process of decluttering my home and I'm going to apply this to that process and also to take a chance on trying something out of my comfort zone for my personal development.
I've clicked subscribe your channel. At first, I intended to learn English. After this video, I think I have many things to learn from you. From Vietnam with love.
My saying is: No day goes as planned. It’s not necessarily a bad thing. Each day has a flow to it and we need to be mindful of that flow in light of whatever plans we’ve made.
![[MV] A leap of faith...ความเชื่อใจครั้งสุดท้าย (From "Petrichor the series")](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/U1piZH2CNXA/mqdefault.jpg)
My favorite tip that I’ve learned over the past 13 years of minimalism is that you can like something without having to have it. Appreciate it and click off. 99 times out of 100, I’ve forgotten about it 20 minutes later.
This is so true! If I have stoped shopping, but still enjoy occassionally browsling home decor stores but with the attitude I am only there to appreciate the diverse and creative ideas that exist. Or get ideas how to re-arrange the stuff I do have.
Love that 😊
@@Mimulus2717 The home decor store is like a gallery or museum for you. And you're still a legitimate shopper because you might see something you might want a year or two later, or something you can recommend to somebody else. Or if you don't see anything like that, maybe this store isn't worth returning to, but you had to do the research to find out.
So true! Just think about museums, we are all capable of appreciating beauty without having it😊
Yes! Along the same lines keep at list of the pretty things you see and think you want. Then walk away. 99 percent of the time I look at the list a few days later and think “nahhh…don’t want/need”. Helps a lot!
I love "It's okay to kind of half-ass certain things in life :)" Before Pinterest, TH-cam, and Facebook - that was totally the norm. Magazines may have presented beautiful kitchens, storage, bathrooms, etc. but people knew that this magazine ideal was not 'real' and did not emulate it. A spice drawer was a mix of bags, bottles, packets, etc. tossed into someplace accessible and that was 'normal.' Now people are comparing themselves with online images that seem to be from people's 'real' homes, but they are just as groomed for image management as those magazines of old. This is going to be my new motto: I will half-ass all the things that do not matter! Thank you Vera. Love your videos - they make me feel so calm.
Sometimes I watch your videos not for specfic tips, but because your delivery and non-hype attitude is an uplifting way to start the morning, and gives me general motivation for my next step in decluttering.
She does have a calming presence
Yes! I'm the same ❤😊
Yes, I love Vera's delivery, information is useful and not overwhelming.
Yes! Same here! Sometimes I just watch Vera's videos to calm down 😊 But advices are also great, I find a lot of value in them
Me too!
I love watching my husband, he is so simple in a good way and happy and joyful. He does not complicate things at all. If something needs to be done he does it. If not he does not. Of course sometimes it is irritating because I am so dutiful and I am sure the world will collapse if I dont do the laundry and he does not see the problem ;)
But I've learned I can learn a lot from my husband (and all men, they somehow have some different attitute towards life) ❤
I find my husband has a different outlook on life! Yes. He doesn’t worry as much.
A part 2 - offering further tips on how to simplify your life, would be much appreciated. Thank you, Vera!! 😊
Thanks Lizzy 🤗🌺
Thank you....listened for the second time and while doing yoga the portion about perfection REALLY helped.....I'm 73.... we're always learning ❤
Oh how wonderful!! Thanks Scheila :) Glad you're also enjoying your yoga! Have a lovely weekend
Thank you Vera - this came at a perfect time. I’ve been so immensely stressed and overwhelmed the last few weeks and your videos always manage to calm my mind and give me new ways to process everything. 💜
Forever grateful for the day I stumbled upon your channel. It’s a real favorite :,)
Aw thank you for your kind comment 🤗🥰💕 I'm so sorry to hear you've been feeling stressed and overwhelmed lately. You must have a lot on your plate. I hope you'll also have some opportunities for self care and rest, remember that it's okay and you deserve to tend to your needs 🌱🍵 Sending you a big hug
Yes! Sometimes it is better to just half-ass something! This is what mothers learn to do. It’s also 😊called “pick your battles”.
I didn't realize how much I needed to hear that I'm allowed to change until you said it. Thank you Vera!!
So true!
You're so welcome 😊💕 I felt exactly the same a few years ago when this really dawned on me
Maybe 'optimal' is simply another name for 'perfect'...and most of the time, good enough, is good enough 😉. Love your videos, they have helped me to understand that I am good enough!
Wedding: You can go to the courthouse and be married, without a "complicated" wedding. That's what we did 31 years ago. That's what our close friends did 35 years ago. I'm so glad we did it!!! Sitting on the floor: I do this every morning, drinking my coffee and petting my dogs. Been doing it every morning for over 10 years.
It is so strange, 30 years ago and more minimalism did not exist, but for certain occasions people acted in an extraordinary free way... now difficult not to pay for a wedding planner... io la chiamo la legge del contrario...
I feel like I change my mind a little every day lol. There's something cozy about having a couple cookbooks. It makes cooking more enjoyable, for me anyway.
One thing I’ve had to change about myself being a vegetarian (I strived to be a vegan even). I know it’s possibly controversial because you are a vegan, but the actual food does not align with my body. Tons of beans and veggies were making me feel absolutely sick and miserable, so I chose to include more meat in my diet. I still believe in the principles of veganism (treating all life with care and helping the planet) so I try to show it in other aspects of my life. And veganism is MUCH more than just a diet
Thank you for sharing your experiences Molly and thank you for trying to be kind to the animals and help the planet! When it comes to veganism, our bodies are all different and our body might react to foods in different ways. I also have to make sure I'm not overdoing it when it comes to beans (I have IBS) but with how my vegan diet is now, my body feels great. :) I think in the end, we don't need a small handfull of people doing veganism perfectly, we need many, many people just doing their best and trying to reduce the amount of animal products they consume as much as they reasonably and realistically can. That would have an enormous impact and I think it's great you're doing your part. And yes, like you said, it's about much more than a diet too :)
I was vegetarian and vegan for many years and it didn’t agree with me either despite being highly educated on nutrition and doing all the “right” things. Also, things people said would magically improve for me didn’t, like acne. I felt horrible most of the time. I changed my diet and now just listen to how my body feels and it’s so much better. I still don’t eat a ton of meat and a balance works for me. But even things like not eating tons of heavy foods makes a difference with me. I have to be sure not to let other people influence my food choices because especially as a woman everyone has an opinion about your food choices.
I was vegan for 5 years. It was positive in many ways for me, but in conjuction with binge eating disorder, I was massively struggling on a daily basis with food. It was a huge identity crisis when I finally allowed myself to change my mind. I STILL 3 years later feel uncomfortable telling people who knew me as a vegan that I no longer am as I was SO adamant it would be my lifestyle for the rest of my life. I also never want to bash such a meaningful way of being. But finally healing my relationship with food and my body feels so much better including animal products daily. It's like my brain cannot have rules about not eating certain things- it flips a very unhealthy switch in me.
It really does feel like you failed at something when you change your mind even if you know it is absolutely for the best for you.
Stephanie…we are allowed to change our minds! Bravo!
@sandyobrien5686 thank you Sandy! It has been a learning experience to do what is right for myself and not worry so much how it appears to the outside world ❤️
I was always forced, as a child to be what was thought to be perfect. Doing thing way beyond my capacity. It is good to a certain point, but in older age, inwardly, hard wiring is still there in ways that are still uncomfortable. I can relate to so much of what you talk about. Lack of major decisions in areas because of fear has destroyed my life because they set me on a course that can not be changed. Procrastination, etc. I am still going forward, yet it’s not enjoyable, just doing it, knowing I was to do something else. Like you said, it is personal and individual and impossible for others to know someone else’s life. It’s good to know other struggle in some of the same areas. Thank you for these videos. You a a delight to listen to.❤️
Dearest Vera, I want to congratulate you on your fine self-awareness and your wisdom. You, in all honesty, are one of the prettiest young women I have ever seen - your peaches and cream complexion, your eyes, your smile and your beautiful hair! You truly have been blessed. I will be 78 in August and I can tell you for sure, that my best decade was my 40’s. You have your whole life ahead of you and it will be a very long time before you will ever have to worry about your looks! Keep up your intelligent, positive attitude - and I wish you all the happiness in the world! 🙋♀️🇺🇸🥰🌷‼️
Vera you are full of wisdom, like a shining light in my life - thank you.
Aw thank you so much 🤗✨❤️🌼 Have a lovely weekend!
Vera: today I sent my friend in the Netherlands the link to your channel telling her that ‘this girl is my most fav in Holland, that’s beside you ‘ ☺️😘… and I meant it (we are Iraqis originally) - I wanted to give you a hug while listening to / watching you in this video. You were so raw and emotional during most of its parts, while navigating through ‘the words and thoughts’ in this one. My top favourite video so far!! YES!!!! Please a second part, no pressure, of course. Much Love 💕 from another sensitive girl in Canada 🇨🇦
Aw thank you so much for your kind words!! 🤗🍵💕 Have a wonderful rest of your weekend!!
I have learned so much from your videos! For me, the idea of "Dan-sha-ri" has changed my life a lot. Probably you already know but it's a Japanese word for decluttering, or more like letting go. I feel like my life is getting simpler little by little, year after year. Please please post the 2nd version of this video! Big love from Japan.
In addition to all the great truths you presented, your videos of the water drew me in totally. I was born near the Ocean and now live in the mountains. I miss the Ocean and the beach and the smells so much that seeing these just relaxed me so much. I thank you so much.
Yes for part 2
Your videos always makes me feel calm and refreshed and good about my journey into frugality and minimalism. Thank you!!!❤
Love from India - Just love your channel.
Thank you so much, that's lovely to hear 🤗✨
I put this video on in the morning before work, expecting your usual calm & useful topics. But I was taken aback by how profound your advice was here. It felt like you were speaking directly to me, especially about being open to every day becoming a new beginning. It was the strangest serendipity! I'm going through something at the moment and it's good to remind myself that we all are allowed to change our minds, with grace & respect for other people along the way. Thank you Vera 🙏💙
So glad you enjoyed the video and that these points resonated with you :) Take care and have a lovely day!
Big YES for part 2 🙂💓🏵🌹💐🌸
Yay! 🤗🌼❤️
Start with small steps if something is difficult, Rome is also not build in one day after all😊 and like a zen-monk, focus on one thing at the moment. Hope all is well and remember, you all matter and are enough.
I used to worry greatly about wasting time. I think I still do. I worry that if my life is not filled with things to do, places to go, people to meet, money to be made, things to be won, then it is somehow a wasted life and time is running out.
Everybody seems to be running around these days. Nobody happy. Stress, discontent, disatisfied, fear of missing out. Its exhausting and often driven by technology and the idea that competition breeds winners.
I dont think I want to be a winner. What does it get you? More stress and strain, more work, less time for the simple things and more anxiety about failing to live up to your own and society's fantasies about what success means.
Seems like everybody literally wants to climb mountains these days, ticking them off on a list until they have all been conquered and leaving a trail of waste and rubbish behind them as they climb those dangerous crags and slopes just to stick that little flag on a pile of rocks on the summit when there is nowhere left to go.
Its all so stupid and ultimately pointless since what does it actually matter if you find contentment climbing mountains or sitting in a comfortable chair staring out the window onto the garden? Who will care what you did or did not do because ultimately none of it matters one way or the other. We are born. We live. We die. The world moves on.
Indecision is my biggest problem. Thank you Vera for all those tips. You're very helpful.
Indecision is often people pleasing so start listening to your gut feeling when deciding and you will feel free and will never regret a decision ~ been there
Your discussion about non-optimisation and that it's OK for things to just be OK is something that I need to embrace. Thanks for the reminder everything doesn't have to be perfect.
Edit - YES, PLEASE! I would love a part 2 😊
This video was very helpful. I'd enjoy a part 2 on this topic. You look pretty in pink. Have a good week! 😊Sue
Thank you so much Sue 🤗💕🥰 Have a lovely week too!
You are right - not everything has to be optimized: streamlining for personal choice is good enough. I read Project 333 but realized that living in a four-season US state, 33 clothing items isn't practical for my life; 35-40 items would be better for my situation and something I can live with long term.
I’ve been finding a lot of the extreme clothing minimalists changing tune lately. I started noticing many in a continuous cycle of decluttering and purchasing in the attempt to have this ideal closet. Clothes wear out quickly when you repeat the same few pieces, style changes, lifestyle changes, and comfort is important. So trying to force an impractical number doesn’t make sense for everyone. I live in four seasons and just the amount of coats and shoes I need for different weather conditions and occasions makes a super tiny wardrobe impractical. I still have quite a small wardrobe compared to a lot of people but don’t stress over a total count.
Good to see you. You look very nice pink is your color. Makes you light up.
Yes, I agree, that shade of pink is very complimentary.
Aw thank you both! This pink sweater is a bit famous on this channel now haha, so many people say it's the perfect color
Yes please, do a part 2!
Our lives accross the planet are much improved thanks to Your on going Gifts to us !!!❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Aw thank you Kenneth, I appreciate that 🤗🌱 Have a lovely weekend!
Overthinking is my biggest weakness, so this video really just said everything that I need to be reminded of sometimes. ❤❤❤
Great points -- thank you! Yes, Part 2 please!
My simple thing this year has been not saying yes or no. When someone asks me for a favor, I wait a couple of days before I give a final answer, that way I can really think if I want to do it or not. Last year I struggled a lot with giving my word on doing stuff I didn't want to do when the time came, and I felt miserable.
Love that tip having space to think
I love so much watching your videos ❤sending love 💕
Loved #2. I have been guilty of trying to optimize so many things around my home after spending time on social media looking at all the home organization images. It's really not that important to me, and I have given it more of my time and energy that it is due.
A good realization then, I would say 🤗🌱 Glad you enjoyed the vid, have a wonderful rest of your weekend!
I totally needed to hear it's ok to change my mind. And that everything does not have to be optimized!! This video really hit the spot today! Thank you so much!
Happy to hear the video resonated with you 🤗🌼🍵 You're very welcome, have a wonderful day today!
Part 2 sounds good. 😊
Yay! 🤗💕
In so many of the things you mentioned I recognize myself 😅. I do live my life the way I want to but if someone says something negative about it, it still hurts. I always procrastinate because of wanting to do things perfectly. I never can make a decision because of overthinking everything way too much. So I learned today that every decision is just okay and that will be the first thing I will change for myself. Thanks for this video and I would love to see a volume 2 🤍
Today’s video really resonates with me. I like my habits but sometimes it’s hard for me to change, so I’ll be more mindful to be ok with making changes…
As usual, a thought provoking inspirational video which ultimately encapsulates that life is a journey and process in which we continually learn from the choices we make and the directions we choose. God bless you and your beautiful HSP, insightful self! I get so excited when you post something (and would definitely love a part 2) ❤❤❤❤
Aw thank you for your kind words 🤗❤️🌼🌺 So happy you enjoyed the video. Hope you'll have a wonderful rest of your day!
Vera. Welcome back from Canada!🇨🇦 ❤
Thank you so much Stephanie!! 🤗🌻 Have a lovely day!
Vera, You always have such good wisdom to share and I am so appreciative of your channel. Thank you :) I used to shop a lot. Not anymore. I avoid shopping now. When I do, I try to see things that I find beautiful as art pieces in a muesum - you can go to see it but you don't take it home. This broke my shopping additicion and now I actually dislike shopping - been years now and glad I changed. Have a lovely day
I would like to see a part 2 to this video. Thank you for this video. Your videos are always thought provoking. Thank you.
You don't always have to be doing something productive. It's ok to read a book or watch TV or take a nap or just stare out the window. You aren't living your life to impress anyone but rather to enjoy your life.
Welcome back Vera! Love from South America.
Wow! I related to the 1st point SO much. I also really struggle with this and am learning that I don't have to be so strict with myself. People don't fit perfectly into molds/ categories, and I don't have to be so all-or-nothing 😊 The other day I had the urge to dress up and put on extra makeup, for example, but then felt like this was somehow fake or "wrong", as I pride myself on being natural and down to earth...I felt like it violated my identity. But really, I am allowed to change my mind every day, in theory, if I want! Lol. So thank you for that reminder ❤ 🙌
Sending best wishes from Jamaica 🇯🇲 .
Love the permission and freedom to change my mind.😊
Glad to hear it!! 🤗🌼 Have a lovely rest of your day!
Thank you for this video! I'd like to express my point of view about marriage: it hasn't to be necessairly complicated. Me and my husband have had a really super simple marriage choosing not to have guests, or wedding dresses, or bouquet, or cake. We chose to do it in the simplest way and to not spend money for things that in our personal opinions are not important. That allowed us to live the moment with full attention, intention and without "distractions" and lot of "we have to do this and that".
Ah yes, definitely 😊 Good point!
❤
Wow! You got me with just point 1!! “ It’s OK to change your mind”, this truth hit me so deep in my heart, and instantly gave me real hope for a new beginning!! These truths were all gold and really valuable to hear and important to take on board! Thank you!
You're so welcome Tamara, glad the video resonated with you! Have a wonderful day
please, give us the part 2. What amazes me the most is how you bring new and fresh content about the same topic over the years. It’s really impressive and inspiring. I want to live my truth in the same way 🌱
Aw thanks Gabi, that's a wonderful compliment and really nice to hear 🥰🥰
I love your videos because you reaffirm what I already feel which is that life doesn’t need to be so serious. That your best life can be lived NOW and now at some indeterminate date when you’ve achieved whatever arbitrary goal you set
Vera, thank you for such a an insightful, inspiring, gentle conversation/video. So many of your points are spot on for me..... Make a decision, it's ok to change my ideas about things, and more. You give such good relatable examples. Thank you
Aw thank you, that's so nice to hear 🤗🌱✨ Have a lovely day!
When you talked about being words and thoughts it reminded me of the part in the Last Samurai where he gets told about having "too many mind"!
Oh yes! It's been a long time since I saw that movie but I looked it up, that's a good scene 😁
@@SimpleHappyZen such a good movie
Being a HSP & an empath who didn't acknowledge these traits for a long time & also felt unaccepted & misunderstood by people for the most part of my life. I feel so validated & comfy when I watch your videos. Thank you so much for being over here & sharing your insights. They're really helpful 💗😇
A way I recently tried to put my mind and body in the present when given the chance is watching and listening to birds. I find it very relaxing, calming and brings me to a mindful state
I would love to hear a part 2! I am also a perfectionist who gets in my own head way too often, so those tips will really change my perspective from now on I hope!
Happy to hear those points resonated with you 🤗🌼🌺 Thanks for leaving a comment, have a lovely day!
Vera, I am just starting to learn about living a more minimalist lifestyle, and I am so thankful for you and your channel. You have a beautiful calming yet motivating way of communicating. Thank you! And pink is a beautiful color on you! 💕
The video i needed! I'm recovering from burnout after very demanding studies and work, and i must admit that this vid is so refreshing, both the point about not needing perfection / optimization and daring to make decisions!
oh my gosh, number 10 really hit home ♥
Glad to hear it :)
Good morning Vera. I personally love cookbooks and magazines with recipes. Food is such a big part of our lives and a new recipe can make it more enjoyable. I love using Pinterest, not for perfection but for the many different ideas I can incorporate into my life. There really is no normal life, just life and we need to make the best of it. Letting go of things or people because they no longer fit into our life is one of the hardest things to do. But if you are brave enough to try there is a reward. Growth. Nothing on this planet is perfect, so why try? When sitting on the floor you are viewing life from a childs perspective. Children have the greatest gift, freedom. Freedom in movement and thought. I enjoyed this video. I notice you are growing and expanding. Don't plan anything for a day and see where that day takes you. ☮️🌍🌲🌷🌷🌷🌷
Hey Vera! Great video and yes I would love a part 2 of this. What I found very insightful was the fact that life is not all about words and thoughts. It's very interesting as a HSP, I can tend to overanalyze nearly everything I do and not just feel or experience them. I think I will try looking at life as more than in my head and be in touch with other aspects! As you can see if I continue I will end up in my head😂. Thanks for the tips in this video and looking forward to next week's video! Be blessed and take care.
Haha yes, glad that point resonated with you! It's something I'm thinking about too (words and thoughts, hahaha)
Thank you Vera I have always loved the dont sweat the small stuff tip. I have followed this one for a very long time. I had a "good" example of someone always sweating the small things. Life is already stressful enough without the little things getting in the way. Yes to a part 2. You have my vote.
"Life is already stressful enough without the little things getting in the way." Well said :) Glad you enjoyed the video 🤗🌱 Have a lovely day!
There’s truth in ‘be careful what you wish for because you might just get it.’ (In regards to complications)
Ah yes!! Haha good point :)
I love sitting on the floor too, and all along i thought that was just me. It feels great to learn that someone besides myself likes to do that too!
All very sound advice. 😊
Thank you, glad to hear it 🤗🌱🌼
I do highly agree with the first point because we are always changing and adapting on all sorts of levels, physical level, mental level, emotional level and spiritual level no matter what people are always changing and there altar environment as well and thats okay and we will not have been the same three years ago we evolved to be a better humans we are today and in 3 years we will evolve to be someone else completely different than what we are today and thats why minimalism and mindfulness and gratitude will help us!!!
I love your comment about half-assed things in life being good enough. It gave me a chuckle because it is so relatable...looking at the various bottles of spices on my pantry door. I'm not sure I even have two alike...but at least they're alphabetized so I can find them fast...lol
Oooh alphabetized, that's fancy! 😁❤️
you have the superpower to always say the exact words i need to listen. love from Italy
Being an HSP, I could relate to your points, so yes, part 2 please!! 🙏 I also sit on the floor sometimes when I play with my cat and sometomes I lie on my stomach to see the world with my 'cat's eyes' which is fun for me. 😁
Hi Vera thank you for your advice and tips as always ❤ I’m also an over thinker so I’m trying to turn the thinking around onto what makes me happy so I can be there more for myself, my family and friends, would love a part 2 😊
Hi Vera Sharon here in Israel 🇮🇱 ❤I thought this content was exceptional!!!!! & yes definitely a part 2 . This was awesome Thanks so much ❤
I really appreciate all your videos thank you so much , hope you keep doing them ❤
Thank you so much, that's lovely to hear 🤗🌼 Have a wonderful day today!
Thank you for your wisdom and grace, Vera. I'm so glad you are back on the channel!
Everytime I hear your voice its always so calming. I keep watching some topic just to calm my mind!
Thank you so much for #2!!! I’ve been going through this so much with my clothes, hobbies, & most recently my planner & written budget section for my planner
Glad to hear that one resonated with you :)
Oh Vera, you and your soothing videos are such a bright spot in my day. When I was working I looked down on winging it. Being fully prepared felt more professional and worthwhile. Now, I am retired, I am writing a cozy mystery. I tried to plan it out, but discovered an intense compelling to just begin writing. I later learned there are authors who are pantsters or plotters. I am a pantster when I write, I go by the seat of my pants (wing it) and Vera, as you say, joy is the key. I love it, it all flows easily. I think being creative teaches us to let go, which releases enormous power and life from within. Your art is beautiful, by the way and thank you for your gentle inspiration. I treasure it. All the best from Canada.
Thank you so much for all your kind words Vivienne, I really appreciate it 🤗❤️ I love what you shared about creativity, I've been thinking about it lately (words and thoughts, haha) and it's so true that it's such a special kind of energy that loves to flow freely. Wishing you all the best with writing your cozy mystery!!!
#10, I needed a pantry and you are absolutely correct. The time, having to deal with the “construction” stuff all over the place the dust from sanding. But it’s a need just having to deal with all the other stuff. Love your content and I get super excited when I get a notification that you posted a video. ❤️Texas
Aw thank you so much! 🤗🌼 Glad that resonated with you!
Learning to say “no”and “ let me think about that and I will get back to you,”; really learning to be intentional and protective with my time and energy, trying to put myself first..and practicing mindfulness throughout the day as well has been very helpful
Dear Vera, at 35 you are wise beyond your years. Thanks for your great content
Yes, please make a part 2! Sometimes I find listicle videos to be predictable, but this was quite refreshing and unique.
I appreciate the mentioning of spice racks and drawers, as I have both an organized portion that I see and use often, and the disorganized portion that lives in a cabinet I only have to look into for refills or niche things I don't often use, like saffron. Finding a middle ground for balance was important, as my brain abhors visual clutter, but I wasn't going to lose all my spices to my brain's idiosyncrasies.
Thank you. I stay in my head way too much.
This life changing for me and can see myself watching it again and again. I will definitely need to be reminded because these habits run deep. Thank you for the wisdom and i would love❤❤ a part 2.
Happy to hear the video resonated with you :) Have a wonderful day!
❤ your content. I consider less is more. Progress over perfection. It is grand having things but maintenance is very important. Regular small bursts of maintenance to me is key. Curating, honing, streamlining our things, our ways, our life style according to what we love best. William Morrison said 'Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be beautiful or believe to be useful' - William Morris. I like this idea. Ambient evening light is beautiful. Nature, God's Creation is beautiful. God is love. God first loved me. All this is lovely. Have a great day. x
Thanks Vera, I really related to the "words & thoughts" issue. 💯🙏❤️
I fully embrace the fact that decisions are merely choices which can be changed to another decision/choice as needed. be.
Hi, Vera! Great video! Yes, I would like part 2, please! 😊
Thank you so much 🤗🌱
Number three also stood out to me, just make a choice and take a leap. I find myself trying to make sure everything is thought of and all aspects are examined before I make a decision. Right now I am in the process of decluttering my home and I'm going to apply this to that process and also to take a chance on trying something out of my comfort zone for my personal development.
Thank you so much ❤ Your videos help me feel less alone about a lot of things. 😊
I really would like to see a part 2 !!! 🥰 Thank you for part 1 😍!
I like the idea that just making a decision is better than not making a decision. Important and great point for over thinkers or perfectionists!
Ngl, number 3 is going to become a mantra for me. Decision making is so difficult to me and it leads me to get so stressed
I hope the mantra will be helpful for you 🤗🌼
I've clicked subscribe your channel. At first, I intended to learn English. After this video, I think I have many things to learn from you. From Vietnam with love.
My saying is: No day goes as planned. It’s not necessarily a bad thing. Each day has a flow to it and we need to be mindful of that flow in light of whatever plans we’ve made.
With the kitchen and wedding thing you can do little things too. Like I'd replace the counter, drawer fronts or floor and elope haha
Haha yes, there are ways to simplify the things we might want too :)
So many good points here! Resonated with so many! Gonna watch this again and again. Yes please to part 2! :)
Thanks for the video, Vera
Glad to hear it, thank you! 🤗
Definitely a 2nd part please the part about no words or thoughts just actions resonated with me. I think way too much
Glad to hear the video resonated with you 🤗🌼🌳
I was minimalist but got depression. I have more studs now and happy no more depression