Goodbye, Things: The New Japanese Minimalism
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 16 ต.ค. 2024
- In today's video I review Fumio Sasaki's new book, Goodbye, Things: The New Japanese Minimalism amzn.to/2qgQGwm. Click for more...
Goodbye, Things The New Japanese Minimalism amzn.to/2qgQGwm
Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up amzn.to/2rgscla
To see more on my review, visit my blog dailyconnoisse...
This book was sent to me to review by the publisher, W.W. Norton & Company. All opinions are my own.
Today I would love to hear about your minimalism journey. Do you struggle with clutter? Own too many possessions? Are you a minimalist? Have you read Goodbye, Things? Let me know and your comment could be chosen as comment of the week on the blog!
Videos of interest: My JAPAN VLOG 2016 • Japan Vlog 2016 Jennif...
About me: Hello, I'm Jennifer L. Scott, wife, mother of three, and New York Times bestselling author of LESSONS FROM MADAME CHIC, AT HOME WITH MADAME CHIC and POLISH YOUR POISE WITH MADAME CHIC (Simon & Schuster). On this channel you will see ten-item wardrobe, le no makeup look, living well at home, recipes, parenting and many other tips on how to become your own Madame Chic and Daily Connoisseur. I hope you subscribe! New videos every Monday (and sometimes Thursday!).
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It's funny, for me Ms. Kondo's book actually led to me increasing my spending habits. Before then, my purchases were focused solely on saving money, getting the most per unit, and making do with what we had for as long as possible, even if it was ratty and falling apart. She introduced me, gave me permission really, to consider my and my family's pleasure with items--which in turn as led to me spending more money for things that fulfill our needs in more pleasing ways.
A silly example would be binder clips: we needed some for a few projects, but not a lot of them. Before reading Ms. Kondo's book, I would have just bought the pack with the clips that were cheapest per unit. But, now, I knew we didn't need very many so instead I found very pretty ones in metallic copper finishes. I love them and am glad we spent a few dollars more for a nicer product.
While minimalism is a rejection of materialism overall, my personal experience has been one of increasing the positive relationship with the material possessions in my life.
Helen Grace Pane
I understand what you are saying, you have found more joy with your purchases. It's important to save money, but equally important to find a little joy and keep your purchases.
I really enjoyed your comment!
I have literally listened to his audiobook over and over again for years now while I’m cleaning and minimalizing. Probably at least 20 times! Lol
I do aesthetic minimalism. If I’m only going to have two bowls, I want them to be the most beautiful bowls I could have, preferably with a story attached. Maybe the bowl my grandmother used as a child or one I got on vacation in Paris.
I like that
I just finished Sasaki's book a few days ago. So much food for thought. His perspective is really extreme, but his book has given me so much to consider. I don't relate with everything he offers, but a lot of it is absolutely thought-prvoking. He is minimal in his diet and in his ambitions, not just his belongings and clothes. He uses the city as his "living room" and "office." His perspective has moved from future focused (how "I want to be") and past focused ("who I was") to really be in the present. He has expanded his sense of gratitude. In a really elegant way, he equates gratitude with happiness. So much to mull over.
I enjoyed Kondo's book a while back. The two are really disparate. Maybe it is the decluttering/ Japanese link. Two totally different outlooks, though. Anyway, so excited to see you covering this little treasure I came upon recently. So, Jennifer, thanks for reviewing the book.
Hello Jennifer. One point that really resonated with me here is the point you made about people being too concentrated on showing how great their life is (like on social media and the like) instead of actually living a meaningful life. I think that's what's always put me off of things like Facebook - people are so "look at me, look at me!" most of the time on there, just to try and look cool. So annoying. Also, if made me realize why you are one of the very few people on TH-cam I watch regularly that isn't a political channel - even though your videos are nicely framed and put together, as are you, somehow you're not showy at all! It makes you very comforting and pleasant to watch, different to so many others..so thank you!
KimiJaciKai, well said!!!
KimiJaciKai I totally agree, she is always so refreshing and helpful :)
Thank you so much!
Informative
KimiJaciKai that resonated with me as well.
"A man is rich in proportion to the number of things he can afford to let alone"-Henry David Thoreau
I'm a minimalism books hoarder and I will definitely get this one :) My journey with minimalism began when I discovered Dominique Loreau series - Jennifer, if you don't know them yet you should definitely give them a try - they are of course about minimalism but they resonate with Madame Chic philosophy most, far more than Marie Kondo (which by the way I find very unpracitical in many cases).
When I got married I moved out from my huge family home to live in a hired apartment. Before we decided to buy our own I realized I have too much of everything, before we even started buying all the household items you need in everyday life. I always loved books and had plenty, as well as thousands of pages of my medical university notes, journals I needed fo work etc. Giant piles of papers. We bought our apatment, so actually I moved twice with all that stuff and when we visited my parents I kept discovering more and more boxes of paper I collected on the attic. When I stayed at home during my extremely difficult pregnancy I scanned almost everything and recycled mountains of paper - what a relief! That definitely helped when I started nesting and getting all the baby gear - a lot of space was needed for that. I quit my job because of serious health issues - we have to live more frugally as my husband is the only provider for out little family. I use more common sense in my shopping - to read a book you don't have to own one - we found a great library we visit often and that is also a perfect lesson for out 4year old. At the same time I downsize my own library - for every book I borrow I read one from my own stash and later I decide immediately what to do with it - if I would not read it again or would like my husband or daughter to read it one day I take it to the library when I go to return my books.
I downsized my wardrobe - I have probably 50-60 clothes (shoes and coats included) for all seasons - I got rid of everything that was uncomfortable for some reason. When you have some everyday health complaints it is a lot easier - life is too short and sometimes painful itself to struggle with an uncomfortable item of clothing.
My weakness is my handbags - I have about 30, love them and wear them all - for me not only an item to carry things in but also an accessory.
I have problems to part with some sentimental stuff (common problem).
As some people say I don't exist because I don't have facebook, twitter etc. I am perfectly happy with just e mail and YT account but I plan to downsize the amount of subscriptions. However Jennifer will always remain on top list of my loved ones.
Sorry for my English.
I have always been a minimalist to the extreme, people often ask if I'm moving. Clutter makes me nervous, but I also loathe cleaning and care of stuff. I have ALOT of time:)
“Goodbye, Things” is actually a book for the ages, as is “Walden” by Thoreau. I highly recommend both because you will never exhaust the wisdom found in these writings. In both books, the philosophical is woven throughout; allowing the reader to truly delve deeply into their own understanding and often misunderstandings of the world around them. The authors are very good at challenging commonly held beliefs of society that are actually hindrances to living a life we love.
Hi Jennifer, I started decluttering back in Jan. We moved to our home 14 years ago, not all of our furniture fit into our home, so we stored stuff in our barns instead. Over the years when something broke it would go to the barns. They were filled. Our house was filled too. Overwhelmed and determined to clean up, we have purged over 2000 items. We are down to 2 towels for each person, 2 sheets for each bed and one set of china. I feel I can breath and the house is much easier to clean. I don't have a bunch of duplicates, one is enough in most cases. I can find everything that I need. Happy mom here!
Hi Jennifer, I have been following your TH-cam videos for some time now and I enjoy them so much. I started the process of decluttering my life and utilizing the 10 item wardrobe and I can definitely say its been sheer joy!
Free time to spend reading books and talking long walks as well as spending more time with my family. Love it!!!!!!
You look so pretty, Jennifer. Your hair is absolutely gorgeous. It looks so full and healthy. This was a really good review. I think a lot of us in the retirement age are finding that we are getting rid of a lot of the clutter. I don't know if this a natural thing that happens, but I've noticed it with my friends a lot. This was wonderful! Much love, Melissa
Thank you, Melissa! Slowly but surely it's growing back! Thank you so much for watching xx
Melissa55 I'm 42 and have been on a minimalism journey for 8 years. I have a husband and 2 girls and teaching them about minimalism and how things aren't important is exhausting. I finally am getting through to them. This book is Is so raw and humbling and honest and came at a perfect time. A must read!! ❤️
I have had a tendency to get rid of stuff just to replace it with more stuff. I didn't set out to replace it, of course, old habits die hard! Now I am at home more through illness and can do less, I am becoming more focused on what surrounds me and what I really need, and what I really don't need. My wardrobe is becoming more succinct, and I am starting to work slowly on the rest of the house, slowly is all I can do, which is not a bad thing as it turns out!
Hi Jennifer, thank you for sharing about this book! I will definitely be checking it out.
I started this journey many years ago and find that it is on going. Four years ago I really started getting serious by downsizing. I moved from 2000 square feet home to 1000 and then a year ago I moved into a 800 square home. I am a widow and it makes it a bit more simple, however I am still working on it.
You books have certainly made it easier to build a capsule/core wardrobe. I have given my children all of my sentimental items and I am on a serious journey to become minimalist.
Living a mindful life is certainly less stressful! Thank you for your continued inspiration!
Michelle
I started a minimalism journey in January when I found your tedtalk video on the 10 item wardrobe. I have gotten rid of SO much stuff, especially a closet full of clothes I didn't like or use. It has been very liberating and has made cleaning with two toddlers much easier!
However, I'm finding the need to declutter and minimize almost weekly still. My husband and I are still consuming too much and I find myself bringing more into the home than I'd like, maybe because I'm expecting a baby and I feel there are still things I "need" (totally nesting). Now I'm at a point where I don't have much time freedom again and feeling the need to systemize and reduce more!
This and the Konmari books are definitely on my reading list soon.
Thank you Jennifer for your constant inspiration!
The hobby example really hit home! I have done fairly well limiting my wardrobe, makeup, and general household clutter. But the hobbies. I have tons of complete sets of cake decorating, crocheting, clay modeling, and calligraphy items that I never stuck with long enough to get good at so they just sit unused and taking up space. Excellent incentive to pick one, turn off the tv and facebook and work on mastering that hobby and giving away the other items to some one who will use them!
Thank you for sharing this book review, Jennifer! This is the first I've heard of Goodby, Things. My husband has been catching on to the spirit of decluttering as our home has become a more spacious, pleasant space over the last couple years - I think he would enjoy the male perspective of this book as a further step in joining my decluttering efforts. What you were saying toward the end of the video, about minimalism creating more freedom of time, has proven so true for me in my recent season of life. As soon as I found out my pregnancy was a twin pregnancy, I got rid of more "stuff" than ever, and doing so has created such a peaceful atmosphere in my home that I can truly rest during the day instead of feeling pressured to clean up the house. It has been truly wonderful.
I love being a minimalist! I have decluttered a couple of hobbies and now I have the time and space to enjoy the ones I kept. It's wonderful. And having to spend less time cleaning is a nice bonus.
I LOVE the promise of relief of the Constant Wanting of Things. I have been realizing especially over the last few months that when I covet a purchase, want something that I think I have to have ... what I REALLY want is inspiration. And I love the idea of finding that in NON-THINGS! Thank you so much, Jennifer for the true inspiration you keep sharing with your videos and books!! xoxo
I have been working / "decluttering" . Started 2 years ago as we planned to sell our home and downsize. We are currently living in a 5th wheel camper while building. All of our "stuff" that wasn't decluttered has been in storage almost 9 months and a portion for over a year. We are in the process of getting those items out of storage and into our shop on the property and it is so overwhelming! I'm already not sure where to start. There are so many emotions. On the one hand there are items I am fond of and glad to see again and then there are others that are a weight. We will definitely be choosey as to what get's to return into the home. Im so glad to have you and others to listen to on this subject and to have tools to use through the process. Thank you
This was such an excellent review Jennifer! I love all the reminders and feel a renewed sense of motivation to simplify.💗 living in such a consumerist minded society, I find that if I am not intentionally focusing on staying simple it's so easy to drift into the dreaded land of clutter.😜 I also LOVE the quote about wanting to prove our happiness more than enjoy it ourselves. May that one sink deep
for all of us.🙌🏻
I have read many books and watched several TH-cam videos. Some days I'm so inspired and other times I just sit and think about how good it would be to purge. I have moved from a 3 bedroom house with LR, DR, FR, etc. to a 2 bedroom apartment and never really got rid of anything. My mother past away 3 years ago and I have her stuff too now. It's like living in an episode of Hoarders. I'm moving soon and trying to downsize and only keep 1/4 of what I have. It's been slow. I'll get there soon I hope and I know I will have to keep it up to avoid being here again.
Hi Jennifer! You are lovely, and I am enjoying reading your first book right now. Minimalism has improved my health SO MUCH. When I discarded our gross excess and cleared all our surfaces, my stress went down and my life opened up to positivity. The most important part of my minimalist endeavors so far has been the simplifying of my schedule; I used to favor AND to OR, but not anymore! The open spaces of time in my life have been more purposeful, productive, and restful than my life ever was in the past.
I appreciate your good work, your stateliness, and your promotion of femininity. It's so refreshing and what I've always wanted for myself in this more casual society. Thank you!
I have been on a decluttering mission the last few months. I been going to a monthly market days to selling items and what ever doesn't sell gets donated the same day. My kitchen and bedroom look wonderful now and and I'm working on the dining room and living room. I look forward to having a clutter free home where everything has a place. Thanks for all the encouragement.
I noticed I went in phases not finishing hobbies and moving on to others only to do the same again. I believe it's because it more fun to want things then to own them.
A week or two ago I saw your TED talk about the 10-item wardrobe, and I was intrigued. I have requested one of your books from the library (and will probably read all three eventually), but then I decide to check out your channel and have been watching several of your videos over the past few days (as I recover from a cold).
I grew up with a mother who had a knack for being neat but didn't know how to transmit that on to me. My dad and his mom were both very messy, and I guess I inherited that gene. But the older I get, the more I crave order. I inherited a lot of my mother's stuff after she passed away a couple years ago, and some of it is useful (especially stuff we could use to replace what we had, like dressers and a desk), but some of it is just stuff taking up space. I have had two or three fruit boxes of toys to dole out for birthday and Christmas presents sitting by my chair in the bedroom ALL WINTER LONG, because we have a house with no garage and no storage. I need to declutter, and I have, but I need to reduce even further.
When will that book be out? My husband just might be interested, especially since it was written by a man. If we could reduce together, that would be ideal! Because right now, his clutter is taking up more space than mine!
I've been decluttering for the last year... sometimes it feels like it will never end. I've been working hard at getting my house clean, tidy and perfectly decorated and keeping it consistently at that level. My husband has noticed and is enjoying it. Yesterday we had an out of town friend stop by with 20mins warning. Usually Hubs and I would be in a mad panic to race around and get our house presentable.. but this time it was already in a perfectly presentable state! It felt great!! It's taken me a long time to get to the point (I'm a maximalist at heart.)
Just finished the book a few days ago💗. I really enjoyed it! We downsized by 90% just over a year ago and moved into an rv to travel! We're still downsizing farther and learning how to live like this. It's a lifestyle I value for many reasons 💗💗💗
I‘ve been raving about this book since i read it. What a book!
I enjoyed your video. My journey towards minimalism has been life-changing for me. I have peace of mind and contentment. However, I found that a life of minimalism requires editing. So I am watchful about what I bring into my life. The minimalist life teaches us to live consciously and that is always a good thing.
Dear Jennifer,
Thank you so much for this video. You mentioned that in this young man's book, he wrote that he had a tendency of having too many hobbies around, and that he found himself not working on any of them. I have found this to be true with me as well. I'm not sure if what I'm about to share with is the same thing, but here it i goes. I own quite a few journals!! Beautiful journals, simple journals, big to medium in size. All to write my thoughts in, write stories along with my drawings or even write lyrics. These journals are in my living room in a bookcase. I have had this crazy day dream of having a bookshelf devoted to empty journals to be used. So I embarked on it. My writing is not necessarily a hobby for me, nor is it a profession (yet). It is a part of my life. But I do find that when I want to write I will use not one of these books. And I won't write as frequently. I love to write long hand, especially when it comes to journaling my thoughts and writing lyrics and drawing. And as I look back in my past of writing. I used to buy one journal at a time. When I finished one journal, I would buy another one. With this method, I was writing constantly, because I was not detracted by many journals around me. All I had, was the desire to write my thoughts and I had one non distracting journal to do this. But now I have several journals, and I find that I even want more journals. You mentioned this condition in your video. In not using the journals in my bookshelf, I would either gravitate toward using the computer or use a small pocket size journal. I'm thinking that perhaps subconsciously I wanted to lessen my emphasis on journals and put more emphasis on the writing. But sadly because of having all these journals, my desire to write frequently has decreased. So what will I do about this? After watching your video, I'm going to put some of these empty journals in my closet, out of sight. I will also give the rest away. I'm choosing to do this on Friday, May 19, 2017. I'm combining this project with another decluttering project. Clothes and Shoes!!! I will send you an email to let you know my results and how this impacted my life. 😉Thank you so much again for opening my eyes 👀
Lizjulharp2 Please definitely follow up and share your experience! I, too, have supplies for multiple hobbies but never "get to it". I will live vicariously thru you!
Hi Jennifer, greetings from the U.K.! As always a great video, great content and lots of food for thought. I have been following you since the release of your first book where you first introduced the idea of "downsizing" (your closet) and since then I have expanded my interest on topics such as minimalism, zero/low waste lifestyle, organic produce and self sufficiency. I have never looked back and I'm decluterring on daily bases, I even managed to earn some few extra bucks for selling stuff off on Shpock (you can use eBay or Craigslist). It is a freeing feeling and I can't thank you enough for sharing your experience in your books and your videos, showing people that less is more and that the true beauty (personal or of your surroundings) comes with cultivating of what we already have and not with constant hoarding of stuff (clothes, beauty products included). Thank you for sharing your views, your beauty and your truly lovely personality with all of us across the globe. You are making a change in many people's' lives and you should feel very proud of yourself. Life well lived! :) Take care, greetings to you and your family. Kristina
Hi Jennifer! Thank you for another great video! So inspiring. yes, I have incorporated the 10-items wardrobe in my life for over a year and I ❤️ it! Not only do I get ready faster but I shop less, save money, and look more pulled together for all occasions such as work, church and casual days out with my family. It really is a domino effect cause I have applied a "need only" requirement for all things such as my kitchen, under the bathroom sinks, home decor, my daughters rooms, home office and even packing for vacations. It makes life better because now I can live a life with quality memories rather than letting material pursuits distract me from what matters. For example my family and I vacations in NY last week, instead of shopping constantly for souvenirs everyday- I took pictures of my girls and me, I stopped and enjoyed the moment, watching my girls play on the swings in Central Park, took a guided tour through the Met, learned something new... this made for a better vacation for ones past- and what do you know? I end up finding a beautiful red scarf (very French!) in the hotel gift shop on our last night. So I have 1 beautiful material gift that will always remind me of my mindful vacation. Less truly is more! Thanks for the constant inspiration!
Hello! I am so happy I came across this video. I recently made a move from Florida to Kansas with my husband, daughter and her husband. I was forced to get rid of a lot of "STUFF". I lived with a husband who was hoarding books, records, tapes, and all sorts of media things. I am happy to have finally have a place to live in where I can find things and not keep stuffing things in drawers and closets. Some things I regard losing or giving up. My daughter is also trying to "let go", but she is not quite there yet. I hope we can all start to agree on keeping only what is necessary and also keep things that we REALLY, really love and would hate to lose.
Wow I didnt even know his book is now publised outside of Japan. I like this book a lot and moreover, I really love your two books publised here in Japan too. Thank you so much Ms. Jennifer :)
Thank you for this post and introducing me to minimalism via your books as well as your Marie Kondo review.
Decluttering objects has been of excellent therapeutic value to me. I have done the 10 item wardrobe exercise twice so far. Both happened after stressful experiences. I realized that I could look like a million bucks without spending a dime. :-). While had been feeling sad due to stress, seeing myself look presentable cheered me up.
Marie Kondo has a free app I use for the checklists. I only have books that spark joy now. It is less stressful not seeing books I had not read.
Liberating is the best word to describe decluttering and subscribing to minimalism. It feels like a weight gets lifted from my shoulders when I do it. I was surrounded by beauty instead of baggage!
Hi Jennifer, So due to a sudden career and location change we have downsized to a city apartment 1/4 the size of our house. Talk about downsizing and "less stuff". I actually love it so much because I only brought with me what I truly love (including my box set of Madame Chic). I am actively interviewing for full time employment and know that I would utilize a "uniform" of black trousers and white blouses because that is what looks best on my short petite stature.
I didn't read any books but was very familiar with the phrase "down-sizing" so the closer we got to my husband retiring the more of that I did.
We, as a couple, did a Bible study on "contentment" which also greatly helped in our mindset of living with less. Living a simple lifestyle now in retirement is SUCH a Blessing!!! We live more each day with gratitude and thankfulness!! 💕
U can always tell how often a person cleans or dusts by the amount of clutter they have. The more stuff you have to move the less chance of them staying on top of chores.
This sounds so interesting! I'm a huge fan of minimalism. It gives me so much more peace and freedom.
I liked the quote about spending our time convincing other people we are happy (on social media) rather than cultivating happiness in real life. I deactivated Facebook in December and am enjoying not having it. I am a minimalist at heart and with having children, I found our home overloaded with things and never having time or energy (struggled with anemia) to get it under control. We are currently in the process of letting go of things and trying to live more simply.
Hi Jennifer,
Thank you for the fun book review. I swoon when I see these minimalist pictures! But finding out whether I would actually like living that way has been another story. Last year I Marie Kondo’d my place and got down to what seemed like almost nothing in my space. I enjoyed that for awhile; then I realized that I actually wanted a little more stimulation in my environment than that, especially since I work at home. So I found artwork and various things I love and put them around, which actually had me feel much more balanced. So I think it is about finding what is right for you.
my thoughts exactly!
This book sounds very interesting! Love when I describe to my viewers and friends how decluttering is about removing the things we don't want AND minimalism is about discovering how little we actually need. I have TOTALLY rotated toys for my boys! IT TOTALLY WORKS!! Thanks for sharing! xoxo
Hey Jennifer, you say there hasn't been much male influence in the minimalist / declutter world, does that mean you're unaware of The Minimalists? Josh and Ryan are two guys, they've written three books, made a documentary and have a weekly podcast. There's also Joshua Becker, another author of a minimalist / decluttering book. Both have TED talks too 😀
Another favourite male decluttering author of mine is Andrew Mellon (he wrote Unstuff Your Life) and, of course, who can forget Peter Walsh (also an author).
So... lots of male perspectives out there, some even writing their books before the Konmari bandwagon 😉
These two fellas are amazing too!
I'm so glad that I finally got to watch this video. I have been on a journey of minimalism for a few years now but now I'm at the point where I realize that my lifestyle is the thing that really needs minimizing. I have a very small wardrobe and shoe collection but I find that my personal care items are getting out of control. I find myself at TJ Maxx or Marshalls wanting to try new products all the time . Now I found that I can use a few bulk all natural items such as clay (for hair wash/conditioner, deodorant and oral care) castile soap for dish washing and all purpose cleaner which is multi-purpose and multifunctional. Also I just discovered cleaning my face only with high-quality microfiber cloths. no more facial cleansers ! I'm vegan and working on becoming a full time fruitarian which would further simplify my lifestyle. I believe minimalism is our natural inclination as humans. once I clean up my diet I won't even have the need for products like deodorant or body wash . because you are what you eat and longtime Raw vegan fruitarians do not omit body odor
I have just found your channel and honestly this book review is the best I have ever watched. Eloquent, insightful, informative. I adore the addition of warnings about content and the sharing of quotes.
Jennifer, I love how you inform us about other authors and keep us educated.
Kudos!
I have so much stuff that I don't even know how to start getting rid of it. I get ready to clean out spaces, get overwhelmed, and give up. I've learned that if I don't get it out of my house the day I'm trying to purge it, I'll sometimes go back to the purge pile & rethink my decision to let it go. A lot of it was purchased with the intent to resale, so I'm having a difficult time just throwing it out or letting it go for nothing. I have no problem giving things to someone in need, but I can't just trash it. I think my downfall was the whole up cycling concept! 😦 When I'm trying to eliminate items I'll pause and think, "I might need this", "who do I know that would want this", or "what can this be used for?". What really fuels that idea is when I do throw things out sometimes I find myself needing it shortly after and end up having to repurchase it new! 😭 I'm on the crazy hamster wheel & pinterest is the devil motor that drives it!!!😈 LOL!😭😭 HELP!!!
I saw a TH-cam video in which Mr. Sasaki gave a talk about his journey. He showed slides of his apartment before and after his decluttering. I would be very interested in reading this book. Thank you for sharing.
Hi Jennifer! Yes I am a minimalist and I only have the things I find beautiful, functional and comfortable into our home. The older I get the less I want material things. I find that too much stuff is suffocating and annoying to take care of. My husband and I focus on relationships and experiences with each other, our daughters and our four grandchildren. My problem is convincing relatives and friends to please STOP giving us stuff! I have been very direct and explained why we really don't need or want anything at this season in our lives. But we still get unwanted things, so I donate to our local shelters. I can't feel guilty for not keeping everything.
HI Jennifer, Loved the book review,. I have all your books and have read them all ! I absolutely enjoy them ! also I have implemented a ten item wardrobe, it's still a work in progress... one time waster I eliminated was Facebook app from my phone, it freed me up, I started to question my own life and happiness seening all the great and wonderful pics posted from old high school friends, and I really started questioning my life ,or there lack of.
on closer examination I realized, I'm just not flaunting every perfect delightful tidbit...
I just finished this book. Hands down, one of the best books I've read in a long time. The message is deeper then just ridding oneself of their things. Every single human being should read this book!!
I think what really resonated with me is the "NOW" and being happy. Just being in the now helps with contentment, happiness and gratitude. Too many of us focus on the past and future and not so much the present.
Don't forget The minimalists. Josh and Ryan are fantastic. I love their podcasts
Just finished reading the book. The best book on minimalism IMO. I guess I have always been a minimalist looking back at my character but I was like most caught up with the tide of consumerism. The best lesson I learnt from the book is "Never stock up" , even if it's a necessity. I will be re reading this book again ... and again
Hello Jennifer, what an educational and enlightening topic! I am guilty of "coveting what other people have" and recognizing those emotions and the subsequent actions has been an uncomfortable look in the mirror. Social media is a horrible enabler. For example, I am a passionate knitter, and I follow many other knitters on Instagram. I go from seeing a beautiful photo (and they're always so beautiful!) of a pattern or yarn, follow the link to the pattern or shopping site, and make a purchase in a frightfully short amount of time.
"Constantly wanting more things, constantly buying more things..." is so true. We just moved into a new home, where we expect to stay for a long time, and there are many projects. And while I love thinking of ideas for how to make this house our own, my husband wonders "when will it be enough?" And he is absolutely correct! At some point, we have to learn to be satisfied with what we have. It reminds me of the Sheryl Crow song: "It's not having what you want. It's wanting what you've got!""
Thanks for the review, and I will be requesting that the local library purchase this book for their collection! (See what I did there? I didn't immediately buy the book! It's working!)
Hi Jennifer,I am on my way to living a life of minimalism!I have a 10 item wardrobe, I still have a ways to go on purging my things. I don't go on FB as much as I use to, now It's like once a week. I want to purge my TV next. It is just so freeing to have less! I love my new lifestyle! I love all your books and videos! Keep making your videos!Cheers!
I don't care for self help books but this is an absolutely incredible book on decluttering, I would say probably THE BEST! Surpasses Kondo, imo. I listen to this while I throw things away. It's incredibly therapeutic.
More videos about kids toys & activities & what you do @ home with them please :) what you said is so true! Yesterday my daughter took the shallots from the kitchen into our play room, peeled them and played with them haha!
Sounds like a great book. I’m on vacation this week and am doing a big declutter. I like the idea of having a uniform!! I’m basically jeans, T-shirt, blazer and scarf.
Hi Jennifer, I always look forward for your new video. It was about time that someone review this book. Very inspiring book indeed and amazing transformation from a hoarder to a minimalist. He takes it to another level altogether. Thanks for you honest input. Looking forward for more reviews like this. much love.
I have felt extremely freed in my minimalism journey!!! I just wish my family could get on board with me!! Especially my husband!!
I loved the review. Especially the quote about trying to make people believe we are happy more than trying to actually be happy. Like you, I go through phases of tv and no tv but when you go through a tv phase again I highly suggest the new Anne of Green Gables on Netflix 😂😂😂
I am working towards a more minimal life. I am a work in progress😄 We just got rid of cable tv and all of a sudden we have a calm in our small apt. That was freeing to us, we have movies and can steam shows but find times to just be more quiet. I will be reading the book, love your books, Mari Kondo's, I am open to reading more about a simple lifestyle.
great review! I started my "minimalist journey" a couple of years ago. Mine is not extreme but I am also trying to in still the value of only having and doing what truly matters to you in my children. For example in stead of stopping for sodas all the time I will give them the choice of waiting and putting those dollars in the vacation fund for the extra fun experience opportunities. ☺
Wow that issue of collecting hobbies really hits home. Having to manage it all is a terror to my life. When we give our life over to things, we actually loose our selves and the life we are supose to live. I want to let go and live again.
i had read about 40 books of Japanese Life Style. the minimalist or the simplicity life style. They have lots of books as such and its very interesting to read about them. some with full pictures for easy reference. super enjoy reading their books. 👍
Hello Jennifer! I am so interested in this book. I saw a snippet of his story in a TH-cam video. I believe that there's an hour-long documentary about him posted to TH-cam. I can't wait to read this.
We ditched our television over a year ago, and we don't miss it at all. We watch DVDs, HBOGo, and TH-cam on the laptop, and I find that we spend less time plopped on the couch staring at the screen.
I don't consider myself to be a minimalist, but my husband and I have a very curated home and very curated wardrobes. I prefer to say that we're living just right (for us).
Hi Jennifer! I started to declutter my things about 1 year ago, it felt great: I got rid of the equivalent of 12 big garbage bags! But my husband is more like a collector, and I can't choose what to keep and what to give in his place. So when we look at our home, it looks like nothing has been declutered... And we are going to have a baby, so we need to get rid of some things, because we will have one less room (it will become the baby's room) I feel it is way more challenging to become a minimalist when your partner is seeing things differently!
Mélissa Tremblay Fontaine my husband grew up in a family with 14 kids... He is the 14th. They were very poor, and he can't help but hold onto anything that is "useful" or something he "might" need one day. He will even purchase "back ups" for his things, just out of fear he may not have something he needs. This is so difficult for me to deal with. I want to purge items, and he keeps bringing them home. I've found that I have had to just give up on our garage. That's his space and he can put anything he wants in it. Also we have separate closets. This has helped, but I still feel a little sick to my stomach when I walk in the garage. It may be fear that someone will "judge" me for the clutter in there, but I'm learning to let it go. Perhaps your husband could have a space just for his stuff in your home. It's not ideal, but it works for us.
J N It could be a good idea, thank you for your response!
I have a minimalist life style and I do the 10 item wardrobe . I love it!
Your book reviews are so well done and thoughtful...always!! Thank you , Jennifer.
I'm a male and on a journey to minimalism myself. Thanks for the book recommendation!
That was a really great book. One of the best in minimalism.
Hi Jennifer, new subscriber and loving your videos!! My 9 year old daughter is always collecting random things - papers, stuffed animals, books, etc. - that her friends give her and she brings home from school. It creates a lot of messy clutter in her room and It drives me crazy. Do you have any suggestions on what I can do to help her minimalize the things that she wants to keep?
Thanks for the review on this book, Jennifer! Can't wait to check it out! :)
I usually do not comment on videos, but this was very amazing. This video was a 10/10!
Very nice review. I bought the book and love it....interesting to see a male perspective on minimalism. I'm teaching my 4-year old niece creative swearing so will look through the book again to find the "swearing page." Love your vidblogs, Jennifer.
What I was able to immediately practice was to let go of things that have been taking up space. For example, two saki bottles over thirty years old that I got on a trip to Japan with my mother. A broken vase; a gift from my mother. And assorted kitchenware; again gifts from love ones. Items that would take up space not only with its physical presence, but also emotionally within me. Guilt always stop me from letting go of these things. With this book, I realized that someone that loves me would not want me to feel this way towards an object they gave me. So - I took a picture of each, just as Mr. Sasaki did and let it go knowing that I have a digital pictures. It is there any time I would like to experience a gift once more. My space is clear and my spirit is lifted.
C Basura sake, not saki. Pronounced like sakay.
Just heard the audio version on TH-cam. He gave a lot of food for thought and made me feel less guilty and strong and brave to get rid of things
u look pretty today and love when you talk about minimalism
What a wonderful quote! I have been thinking how true that is.
Thanks for your review of the book. Some great messages there. I am always curious (nosey!) about your full outfit each time you appear. I now the items of your wardrobe but would love to see how you put them together on a daily basis. Would you be able to do a quick show-and-tell of your outfit at the start (or end) of each video, please. I'm sure I'm not the only sticky beak :))))
I have been on this minimalist journey for a while but when I look at my house and my stuff I feel like I need to do more decluttering. I thought I was doing so well with my 10 item wardrobe but I am having a tough time keeping it small. I have some clothes on layaway at the thrift store and lately I am really questioning if I should keep paying on these things or just let them go... Its so hard sometimes on this journey to know when you have enough. How many shoes do I really NEED? Its not like I have 20 pairs but I still question what I do have. I am glad you did this review its obvious to me that the Lord really is trying to get my attention on this subject. Thanks Jennifer, you keep me thinking about making my life better all the time :-)
I just finished reading this book (digital version :-). Really inspiring even if you never want to become a minimalist.
After reading Marie Kondo book, I declutter tons of my possession from clothes, kitchenware, books, etc.. A lot. I felt liberated. I know we are huge benefactor for consumerism. I know this one of the result for my panic attacks, chronic anxiety. I want to live happily and actual feeling happy. I need to get back on track. But I am so lost that I feel overwhelm. Any idea?
Excellent review. Without intention in acquiring, we can be owned by our things. A balance of belief, attitude and behavior determines our home environment. Excuse me while I attend to some needed adjustments! Thank you, Jennifer!
January 2024. I try not to buy anything but food. My craft supplies are given to me, as are most of my clothes. In the past year, I bought a purse and one pair of
shoes. I'm 74, I volunteer at 3 places. I teach crafts and 3 of us live in a 2BR apartment near Chicago. Tina, Al's wife
i watched a speech by fumio and liked how he talked about mother Teresa and Gandhi and how they were minimalist
I want to own less stuff but two things really get in my way: laziness (ugh!) and my emotional attachment to stuff. I just find it so so hard to get rid of most things. I always find some reason to keep stuff. Sure, there's some low-hanging fruit that's no big deal to declutter, but I'd say 80-90% of the junk we own is because I can't bring myself to part with it. I really really struggle with this.
Your skin looks so dewy and luminous!
I’m challenged by my crafting supplies. How much is enough? How much is too much? Right now I’m consciously using my supplies so that I identify which supplies works best for me and then which I love. The rest will be recycled.
Have you read "The More of Less"? I found this to be a great read that inspired me to live more intentionally.
One of my favourites!
Thank you for the wonderful video. I will definitely read this book as I'm on my own simplification journey. Could you do about rotating toys and declutterung with children? . This is my hardest area to declutter. It's especially hard as our family is very generous and want to constantly give toys and gifts to our child. We don't want to hurt anyone's feelings but we are feeling overwhelmed by the toys. Thank you so much for inspiring me to be more present at home. I love your books and videos.
This is such a great book. I have lend to friends. Very Honest writing. Loved it alot.
I’m a minimalist, and my daughter is more of a practicalist. However, my husband and 2 younger children are not. It’s a constant battle at our house when I go into tidying and decluttering mode
The older I've gotten, I'm 38 now, the less I want around me. Luckily I am moving in a few months and I'm already decluttering, donating and trashing what is no longer useful to me and my husband. We are downsizing so I'm getting rid of a lot and it is making me feel better.
Nice review! I definitely want to read the book. I threw away my work trophies and awards- besides the memory, it didn't do much for me.
Frugal Nev Me too! I threw my sport trophies and academic award. Thankfully, my mother didn't make too much of a fuss. I don't miss them.
I'm a grandmother and it's hard to let go of cards, small gifts, like small jewelry boxes I've received from my granddaughters, and photos. My main living areas are very organized and I'm very clean. Everyone comments on how clean, etc. my home is, but I wish my bedroom dressers were less cluttered, not messy, just too much!! How can I let go of those things? By the way, I rotate my (sweet, little) dogs toys, so she thinks she gets new toys once in awhile!🐶
Great video! Thank you for this review, I have read Marie Kondos books and naturally yours and I got a ten item gardarobe after that, It was so nice to get rid of four bags full of clothes .But t still feel so opressed by things , the numeral projects books, magazines ,materials, books I want to read, fabrics I plan to cut and sew, yarns, beads, usw.To follow the DIY wave was fun and anti-stress at the begining, the wonderful tutorials and the amazing products one can buy online to make everything...! Now it became a problem wiith I am dealing every day,sometimes I do not know where to begin, it is overhelming.Sorry for mistakes in English.
I don't believe being an extreme minimalist such as this author (according to the photos you shared) is ideal for a family of four with two young children. I do however believe in only pruchasing items that are of a necessity and maybe leisure or decor items at a minimum that bring happiness to your life. Before I purchase anything I always ask myself these questions: 1. Is it worth the value? 2. Can I make it myself? 3. Will this slow me down and be a high maintenance item? 4. Do I have the space for it? 5. Can I pay cash for it?
Thank you so much for your review
It was very easy to understand
Thank you
I'm going for it