50 Things I Quit to Simplify My Life | Minimalism, Slow Living, Self Care
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"If you want to attain knowledge, add things every day. If you want to attain wisdom, remove things every day." I've been thinking about this famous quote from Lao Tzu, and realized that, when it comes to minimalism, simple living, self care, slow living, and all that good stuff, it's been mostly the things I've stopped doing, or removed from my life, rather than things I started doing, or added to my life. So I sat down and wrote a list of 50 Things I quit to simplify my life. I hope you'll find some inspiration here to simplify your life as well!
Lots of love,
🌼 Vera
VIDEO CHAPTERS
Removing things from your life 0:00
Numbers 1-10 1:31
Numbers 11-20 5:58
Numbers 21-30 10:08
Numbers 31-40 14:44
Numbers 41-50 18:52
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I really like how quickly and matter-of-factly you go through your list. Other videos annoy me when they just won't get to the point! They waste my time - so thank you for such a wonderful video
You mean how they turn a single basic piece of advice into a 15 minute video!
@@honeychile5393 And we would know that these videos are a waste of time because?
It s funny, cause being on youtube is already wasting your time lol
Thank you for this video! I’ve quit overcommitting myself.
❤ this welldone, thoughtful list❤
One thing I've started keeping in mind to simplify my life is "don't put off for later what you can do now." The feeling of walking through my house and seeing the project I completed or the mess I cleaned is so much greater than the feeling of seeing supplies piled up or a mess. It's difficult to have the motivation to do something sometimes but the reward when it's over is amazing.
I agree. If I can do something in a min or two, I do it. When I’m done with something, I put it away, clean it up, whatever needs doing. It’s just so much easier to do little things when they happen, than waiting till a bunch of things pile up.
It’s easier to walk up and down small hills a couple of times a day, than climb a mountain once a week.
When I was in my 20’s an older friend told me to just make a room look better when you leave it than when you came in. Just pick up one thing. I’m in my 70’s now and this is still comes gently to mind. Best advise!
and what if my brain is so sensitive and weak to the point he just unable to bear any slighest pain/discomfort which leads to getting depressed/desperate/hopeless and not having any motivation/will/passion and only avoiding any activity/work?
@@CamelliaFlingert are you seeing a good therapist? Are you on any medications? The right therapist AND the right meds (type and dosage) can help.
@@HeronCoyote1234 we don't have any good therapists in the place i live (not everyone is lucky to be born in the first world countries) but i can't afford to move to another country and can't afford the therapist and meds, also how meds can help if my suffering is caused by the things those meds can't change? meds can't make me immortal and forever young, meds can't stop all wars, discrimination, violence and all injustice and unrairness in this reality, meds can't reborn me into a completely different human, with the opposite biological gender, with healthy genetics (mine is awful, i'm suffering from BPD and that's the only 1 of my problems i born with), meds can't give me a passion in anything, meds can't make me love doing something when i don't love doing it (working), meds can't give me happiness, meds can't make me love myself and being loved by others, meds can't give me ability to doing something and be good at it, meds can't stop the pain, meds can't do anything if most of my problems is caused by the outside matters which i has no control over
I agree with everything on your list, except about leaving the dirty dishes overnight. Only because at age 67 I have finally overcome all my OCD behaviours. And leaving even one dirty dish used to be a problem. Now, when I get up in the morning and see those dirty dishes waiting for me.... I feel great! I start each day doing yesterday's dishes and feeling like a success... lol
I'm the same! I'm 31 years old, and I always do the dishes the day after. I then just feel energized to do them!
Me three. Also 67. While the kettle boils in the morning, I can finish a sink of dishes. Seems to take no time at all. After I've made and served dinner, I don't want to be in the kitchen anymore and doing dishes seems to take forever. However, I do scrape, rinse and stack the dishes before putting them in the sink.
😃 great!
I cannot agree. I have left my dishes in the sink for like two years,
They mould very quickly after just a week, and after two months, the mould would grow fluffy and expand fill the entire sink. After like six months the mould would dry out and die ( I assumed it had died because it was gray and lacked moisture). After like a year the dry mould collapsed under its own weight and because it was quite light and fibrous, it became dust, and dissipated into the air. It was a health hazard.
I would advise doing dishes before you absolutely have to do them.
I love this list! I've quit wearing makeup. I know that's not for anyone, but it works well for me. It gives me more time in the morning and simplifies my morning and evening routines. I just wash my face with a gentle cleanser, apply a little moisturizer, and that's it. It saves me money (makeup is expensive!). It is better for my skin and I feel like my face can breathe better. I don't have to worry about removing my makeup before exercising. I can splash my face with water anytime during the day and not worry about messing up my makeup. I don't have to worry about getting makeup on my clothes accidentally. And, most importantly, it has made me feel better about myself, because it has taught me that I am beautiful just the way I am, without a bunch of paint all over my face.
I always thought I needed a certain skill to be able to do it right... I am 32 and still feel like I don't know how and don't need to learn to. It is freeing treating my face like I do my little girl's
Yes, the same
I love that. No one should feel like they have to change their natural face in order to be acceptable. I get that some women wear makeup for fun and self expression, but so many of us do it because we feel like we aren’t good enough without it. And, for example, can’t leave the house without it cause they feel like their natural face looks bad. So I say ditch makeup if it just makes you feel worse. Men don’t have to wear it, so why should women have to?
Same it is a game changer😊
I feel happy for you for doing this 😊
I have eliminated social media (Instagram and Facebook) form my life and I’m appalled by how much time I have now! I also don’t read/listen to the news everyday and I’m way happier!
Me to. 2 and a half years at this point. Amazing freedom
I find it inspiring to hear other people doing this too. It makes me see how "my people" do exist.
Same here. I am happier and more focused. The quality of my life, time has increased exponentially.
i envy you, i wish i could
If anyone has any suggestions for me, I go through my junk drawer put everything in a bag and it’ll stay there for weeks if not months and then I start to go through and think oh I should keep this. I should keep that I mean there are things like let’s say, tape and safety pens I need to know how to organize these things, please help! Thank you 😊
Even at 71 years of age i am enjoying your list here immensely!
I recently quit rushing. I have significant anxiety and tend to struggle with keeping up on everything at work and home. But running around in a panic trying to get everything done just put me in prolonged fight-or-flight mode. I was constantly anxious, irritable, and could hardly think straight because of my mind racing. After almost having a meltdown at work, I had to stop. Now I focus on doing things steadily instead of fast as possible. It's helped a lot so far with my stress - and surprisingly I'm still able to get plenty done. 😊
Underwear made the list! Finally someone acknowledges how much an uncomfortable underwear can interfere with you day to day life! In all seriousness though, this is the most relatable video I have found so far.
😄💕
Something I’ve let go is wearing high heels! 👠 👠
Same and it was a great decision 😅
AMEN 🙏. I now love my boring comfy shoes ❤😂
I like to wear them to church or fancy occasion!
Same!
Good idea as high heals are bad for your feet and legs
Things that have helped me simplify;
1. Saying no thank you as a default to most things. If I’m slightly interested at the time, I will say can I get back to you on that? & then mull it over
2. Stopped watching tv passively. This has been eye opening. A lot of people just turn the tv on and let it go. I choose what I want to watch and then I set aside time to watch it.
3. Chelsea boots. You slip them on/off and they are good for most of my clothing.
4. Using a daily written planner. Helps me outline the hours and make sure I’m doing the right things.
5. Limiting vices to one per week. 1 dessert per week, 1 bourbon per week, etc. Its not a daily thing so you are practicing delayed gratification and also decreasing spending while increasing pleasure
Very true! :) No thanks can oftentimes be enough :)
Oh I love this list. Just bought some rocket dog Chelsea boots. Great call. I like all of your thoughts. One thing I’m tryin to leave is my tendency to wonder why on most everything. I’m super curious. But, it’s almost like a kid going but why, but why, but why.. I enjoy critical thinking but not about the light switch panel cover or the trim or the way we feed our animals to table. It’s too much and takes me down so many rabbit holes.
Love that quote and your list! I quit sharing everything about my personal life with my closest friends. I also quit being overly interested in other people's personal lives. I feel lighter and have more peace of mind, as a result. I also quit beating myself up if I don't have the most productive day and if I just want to relax.
Fantastic advice and I love the quote too! Vera does such a great job at bringing us better awareness of what really matters in such a succinct, simple way. SHe's a doll and so refreshing!
Agreed. I’ve quit sharing much about mine too and I no longer care much about theirs unless they are my closest friends/family
Love this!
Your hair looks fine.
I don’t follow trends either.
I do what I feel like doing when I feel like it.
I very seldom iron anything.
I don’t play “ Games “ ….. never have.
I learned to say “ No “ and I do it often.
Priorities do change as we get older and we need to accept it.
Thanks Teresa! Those are great examples! :) Have a nice day today 🌱
great list Less of everything simplifies my life. Less clothing = less decisions & laundry. Don't keep anything that doesn't fit today. Less house stuff = less cleaning & visual clutter. Less on calendar = more calm.
Hi Vera. Another great video! You are never too old to learn ! I'm 74 and have been a subscriber to your channel sine the pandemic began. I am a lifelong minimalist. I have always found possessions a burden and being a very sensitive person I have always tried to keep my life simple. Your video today has been a wonderful " refresher course "(which we all need periodically) and an eye opener to more things I can/not do for a simpler, calmer, happier life. You have a truly generous spirit.
Aw thank you Margaret, and thank you for being a part of this channel all this time! 🤗🍵 Glad you enjoyed the video. Have a lovely day!
I quit looking at my phone on a work-at-home break. I play with my dog for 5-10 minutes instead. Me and doggy are both happier and have a healthier relationship.
What a great idea! I need to do this. 😊
I randomly clicked on this video and it has so much profoundly simple wisdom in it. Blew my mind how hard it hit home
As a 21 year old woman with ADHD & BPD, I learned so much from you! Your main idea seems to be about slowing down, being present, honest with our natural rhythm, and giving ourselves some more grace
I have ADHD and BPD as well. I found her video resonated with me the same way it did for you :)🫶🏼
I quit (and am still working on)…fitting my conversations and reactions around the person I’m talking to. Being more of who I am despite their reaction or opinions.
I’m trying to do that too, but there are a couple of people I know who are very confident in their opinions and tbh I just end up saying very little in order to hurry the conversations along.
I relate to some of the things in this list:
- I never get in on any trend.
- I thought cooking is difficult - but then I realized I can do simple meals. They're cheaper, too.
- I don't iron my clothes. They are line dried out in the sun.
- I turn off ALL notifications. I get annoyed with them, even if they are from work or from other people, hehe
- I don't bring my phone with me - especially in the bathroom.
- I also pay bills right away. Penalties and late fees cost more. I also don't want to accidentally spend the budget for bills on something else.
- I really don't have a morning or evening routine - it's like, do you really spend a lot of energy into those steps? Don't you get tired when you're just about to go to work?
- I only had to give holiday gifts when I was in school (during Christmas parties).
- There have been no holiday decorations in our household since my parents died.
- I don't watch the news - they just pop up randomly on the feed (when I'm working on a client's social media)
- I do shower every day, though. We're in a tropical country and it's just basic hygiene.
Thank you!
let my choices come from inside me instead of being imposed from outside. If I want to splash my wheelchair through a mudpuddle, life is too short to not have fun! I do try not to splash other people, of course, but if no one is within range, I LOVE it. And often people who see me do it get joy too. Anything. I wear the bright colors I love, add glittery pinwheels to my chair, tell people I love something about them when I notice it, just follow my heart.
This is such an amazing list, and I can echo so many of them!! I've stopped being jealous of everyone who gets to travel a lot... Because I don't actually WANT to travel, everyone else just makes such a big deal of it I feel like I'm missing out! My husband and I made a lot of sacrifices to buy a house in a good community in a beautiful forest, and it's okay I don't need anything else!
Love this 🥰💕
So agree ! My husband traveled for work several times a year & I was " criticized " for not going along . Most work trips allowed time for him to try new restaurants , visit museums , national sights ,etc. , all things he had missed out on growing up as his family did not do any of these things . However , my family experiences were just the opposite , plus for decades as an adult I showed horses so traveled a lot . I truly enjoyed hearing about his trips & his take on things I'd seen & experienced . So , like you , I prefer the easy rhythm of my lifestyle & quiet country home . 🥰
Same here! There's maybe one or two places I'd like to visit with my wife if we get the chance, but in general I'm happy being a homebody and nesting. I have been to a few countries and obviously I enjoy it each time, but we also already get to see so much of the world through other people and most of us who've been to 2 or 3 other countries have already travelled more than the average person 100 years ago. I say keep the magic alive by seeing the beautiful pictures and videos online spending $1000s to wade through tourists and visit a place I don't necessarily connect with.
Ditto about the travel part 😊
Same here I want to see England ( so I can see castles and all the Harry Potter things) and Malta ( as I am Maltese) otherwise I actually don’t like travelling and hate planes (they actually scare me).
About food and grocery shopping, I have something of a "menu" that are just my favourite healthy dishes and I make sure to always buy ingredients for those when going to the store. Many people think you have to eat something different all the time but having a rotation of 5-6 dishes goes a long way - and saves you time, energy and potentially money. And you get to eat something you like every day! Great video, fully agree with everything you said 🌻
It's amazing how much of this advice reminds me of teachings I grew up with just through studying the Bible. Things like keeping my thoughts positive, not gossiping or being a busy body, setting a time for everything, a handful of rest is better than 2 handfuls of hard work, stability between self-care vs. care for others, and so much more. Although I didn't start learning how to actually apply some of it until well into my 20s. But it definitely helped me appreciate even more how you apply the valves you listed in your life.
Regarding paying bills “as soon as they come in,” I’ve made all of my bill payments (except credit card, which I pay off monthly) electronic and automatic. I don’t have to worry about them if I’m traveling and know exactly when they will be paid. Huge simplification for my life.
Yes! Thanks Alice, that's a really good one :)
Just by listening to this, I’ve been able to easily let go of some things that I’ve been holding on to. First to go….houseplants that I’ve been trying to revive unsuccessfully. 😀
Amazing!! Great job 😁🌱
I gave up fighting my hair’s natural texture ( I used to use a straightener or curling iron daily), now I just wet it and let it air dry with a leave in conditioner. Also washing my hair everyday. It’s always the most awkward when I have just washed it and as time goes on the hair settles into a natural wave- so I let it go 4 or 5 days between washes and it is fine. I quit hanging out with friends that stress me out. I quit going to theater movies and plays (I don’t enjoy sitting still that long and I don’t really enjoy theater 🤷♀️.
There’s so many strict morning and nighttime routines on TH-cam and I fell for it for a while i thought I had to be perfect. Thank you for calling this out
I let go of all ultra-processed and highly processed foods and eat a much more natural vegetarian diet. I am no longer even tempted by any of those foods, I have lost 55 pounds (and kept it off over a year), reversed a diabetes diagnosis (YES!) and had a pituitary tumor completely vanish (baffling my doctors!). Letting go of unhealthy foods and eating a whole food diet has changed my life!
I used to shop a lot here and there. lots of things had happened when pandemic started. To cut the story short, I had mnay realization in my life, Life is too short. I made a decision to focus on what truly makes me feel happy. I began to meditate and I decluttered and removed too much of everything that I used to have, that includes toxic people. But I added two furry friends. And the whole game changed for the better. Now, that everything is clear, I started a business that I truly love.
I am an emotionele sponge as well. I also get the need to solve the problem for them. Bit someone recently told me: They are adults, it's their problem. And they can solve it on their own and in their own way. If they avoid a problem or something, that's their lesson to learn and you might not even reallt help them if you solve it for them.
That sounds really simple, but it made me realize to leave them be and focus more on myself, sometimes.
This got me reflecting on some things that I've cut out of my life too :) here are a few...
1. Following sports religiously. Sports are cool and I enjoy watching them, but memorizing stats, standings, and starting lineups is just... not what I need in my life anymore!
2. Complex meals (just like what Vera said). Just eat easy and healthy food that's easy to prepare and clean up.
3. Uncomfortable clothing. I haven't worn something uncomfortable in years. There's no good excuse for wearing something uncomfortable. Ever.
4. Buying ONLY ONE when a few extra helps (the opposite of what Vera said.) If it simplifies my life to have a few extra of the thing, just buy a few more!
5. Too much coffee! I've started only buying crappy instant coffee now. It's disgusting and I never want more than one cup a day.
6. News consumption, podcast consumption, etc. - just be more selective.
7. My body type - as a dude, coming at it from the opposite angle. I'm all skin and bones. and ya know what? I'm doing fine. I'm healthy and capable and unashamed.
And things I need to start:
1. Turning small projects into big projects. Stealing this one straight from the video. Just get the small mess and move on!
2. Taking on others' emotions as my own. Good LORD do I feel targeted by this one.
Those are really good ones. I especially took to heart the "uncomfortable clothing" one! I have a few things that look nice for my office, but not only do they need ironed, they are uncomfortable and scratchy! Why? Why do I do that to myself?! I also like extras of things like reading glasses I can place in different locations around the house, or even walking shoes that I can keep in the house and also in my car, etc.
@@BMariaZ An extra pair of running shoes that live in the car is GENIUS. I'm adopting that one for me!
I think a lot of people grow up thinking that "nice clothes" are inherently uncomfortable. It just doesn't have to be true! I think for me, as a male, it's probably easier to find options that fit/flow/feel nice and look cool too. And, I've also talked to some female friends who said that they felt guilty for finding a nice dress (or whatever) that was comfy, like they felt it was cheating to wear it! And I was just like? wtf!? If it's comfy, wear it!!! :)
One thing that helps me doing a chore I hate, such as going to the laundry. I put a date and time to do it on my calendar and when the time comes I refuse to think about it, I just do it. I can always overthink and talk myself out of doing something I dislike. This way it gets done with little stress.
Good one!
Great suggestions Vera. One thing I quit a while ago is explaining myself or justifying my decisions to do/not do something. Xx
How do you do that? I’d love to stop explaining. People seem to expect a reason. Do you say anything or just do your thing and walk away. Or something else. I’d love to know. Great comment.
@@terrieisanaudioslave I say something like....thank you and I'll say no on this occasion.....or a simple 'no' or ' no thanks' . I remember that my time, choices and preferences are my own. It took some practice at first and I started with easy situations. Best wishes
If I have someone asking me to explain sometimes I slow down my voice and look a little blank and say ‘I dont know’ even if i do or say to them with a quizical look (which is genuine) and say ‘What do you mean?’ because really, why IS somone asking for an explanation and what ?!? it works sometimes … other times a thoughtful very long silence does put and end to the question. I might not ‘look good’ in that interaction but do I care? Not enough.
@@terrieisanaudioslave I know this is an old comment but I did struggle with this. I now think, "does this person deserve an explanation?" They would if you promised to do something that you can't anymore, for example. But otherwise, do they really deserve it like you're their subordinate and you're submitting your excuse for their approval? If they demand more beyond a simple "no thanks", a nonspecific "I can't, unfortunately" or "it just doesn't work out" is enough. Reiterate until they get the message. Don't allow people to pry into your life and priorities by refusing to accept your "no".
Excellent video, I've eliminated a lot of the same things you have. Life isn't meant to be a competition. Everyone needs to find their personal happiness and try and get rid of the things that just aggravate or depress you whenever possible.
I agree!! Thanks Flo, glad you enjoyed it :) Take care and have a nice day today
TY🙏🏽I’m an Empath & HSP & I absolutely love your videos. Helps me feel less like a skinless, over sensitive being that’s not relatable.
Glad to hear you're enjoying my videos! :) And there are many more sensitives out there, so you're definitely not alone in that or unrelatable :)
So many great things listed in this video! I try my best to not watch the news too. It stresses me out too much.
One thing I loved about your old place was the amount of natural light you had flooding in. Great to see you have the same set up in this apartment!
Thanks Sarah! Dutch homes generally tend to have lots of big windows. :)
I love this. One thing I've done is I stopped shaving my legs! I used to get so anxious about my legs being perfectly smooth and hairless all the time, and I started just dreading shaving them because it would take so long for me. I haven't shaved my legs now in over a year I think, and it saves so much time.
How do you stay cool while wearing pants in summer though
@@baileyanderson6824 I haven't noticed any difference in temperature at all honestly.
I had to rewind to the part where you said you had PMDD, thank you so much for speaking it out loud! Working with my PMDD is my biggest challenge, feeling that I should be doing more or what a person without PMDD is capable of. Only recently discovered your channel and binging your videos, thank you for all the work you do for us sensitive/introverted types 💛
Something I’ve never even started was being on social media - I don’t miss it, and I’m happy I didn’t have to go thru the stress of leaving it! I’m not against it: I just don’t like it. - Very good video! Thanks!
But you are still on youtube?
I sent this to my 37 yr daughter because she is one heck of a stressed person; work, image, you name it. It didn’t matter how much advice I would try to give her negativity a rest. I can’t fix it; it just makes me stressed. Hopefully she’ll watch this.
When the student is ready, the teacher will appear
I stopped ironing too a long time ago, and I am so happy I did.
When the weather is hot I quit cooking, make nourishing smoothies, salades or sandwiched with raw veggies on the side,
I often make a one pot meal, it's simpler to handle although I can cook well it's less fuss, and less dishes and uses less power ( energiecost) .
I do that too :) Thanks for the tips!!
@@SimpleHappyZen Vera, you might want to mention in a video what one-pot meals you like best.
Great video! Most of us don't get to this point until we are in our 60's. You have saved yourself decades of grief :-) BTW-Our kitchen is tidy, but is busy like a 24 diner, so dirty dishes don't stress me out. They get completely done once every 24 hours. It works for us.
I was never too materialistic, but then I started selling my Art, ended up getting Art supplies enough for a medium studio, and then rented some small and big houses (considering it's for one person). I had all I needed (not excessively), but I was in my way to become an hoarder just like my parents. Then I realized that this is not me, so I sold, gave or thrown away pretty much everything, that meaning the 9x a cargo box of a Renault Express that I had to move each time I moved (7 times in 8 years). I never had a smartphone and I stopped using a mobile phone 6 years ago. On the computer only use Facebook, TH-cam, stream a movie once in a while, and play a 3007 racing simulator (beside music, research and editing work). Don't have a car, a bank account, any kind of subscription, and now renting a smaller house with nothing but what I really need, with very little in each department ( egg: cleaning means a broom, a dustpan, a mop holder and one cleaning product, and I have one dish, one fork, one spoon, one glass and one tea cup, and so on)) I don't even cook anymore, some very simple, cheap and kind of healthy foods, pretty much drinking yogurt with muesli or rice crackers outside meals, usually one per day more recently (come for the diet, stay for the lifestyle). All I possess fits in my room, and that includes my big emergency "bug out bag". Been sleeping with the mattress on the floor for some years now, all my laundry fits in a medium-big travel trolley, I stopped dwelling in the chaotic world of modern dating long ago, ended up most toxic relationships, and that's pretty much it... and it's completely FREEING, you have all the time for yourself, even if you work. More to someone who has suffered some abuse and has some issues with anxiety, overthinking and stuff... And it's not that hard to let go, just realize is an awesome idea, and let it rule your life more and more.
Quitting and adding is the same thing. When you remove clutter, you gain space. People nowadays tend to think of physical objects and don't appreciate the spaces between them or the boundaries between objects and space. Likewise people are frazzled and nervous with overstimulation, which decluttering can alleviate somewhat.
Vera, believe it or not, I was thinking to myself how nice your hair looked in this video before you even mentioned it. Thank you for giving us wisdom on your lived experience and some things that have helped you - some of these were great reminders for myself that I didn't realize I had lost track of amid all of life's craziness lately! I love starting my day with a cup of green tea and a video from you, thanks again!
I love how her hair looks in this video as well!😊
@@j.r.1823 me too.. the side braid is great too.
I have simplified my meals by having a salad or smoothie for breakfast, a meal from my monthly prepped for lunch and/or dinner. I do not have to think about nutrition/food. It has been almost a year since I have started this coming
A bit controversial since you said the opposite.... but I stopped cleaning the kitchen before I go to bed. I'm usually half asleep whilst my coffee brews in the morning... a perfect time to do a mondane task like loading and switching on the dishwasher. I usually do the washing Maschine too - makes me feel productive when both maschines are on 😊
Ah well that makes sense then :) Also haha yes, I also feel productive when I hear the washing machine and the dishwasher hahaha
I quit polishing my finger and toe nails, too. I have so much more time. I don't have to worry about the polish chipping and wondering when I'll have time to do them again, and I'm saving money, as I don't need polish, remover, or cotton. 😊
Some things that help me: my bills are on auto pay; I use my Roomba to simplify cleaning; I did the Marie Kondo thing and finding stuff and cleaning is super streamlined 😊
I hear a lot of people saying that they can’t go to bed with a messy kitchen, but honestly I’m the complete opposite. As someone who has more energy in the morning, I find it a lot easier to do a quick clean first thing in the morning while making breakfast!
I tend to overthink, and I now tell myself not to do that. Instead, I remind myself that my mind will wear out with stress over nothing. We gave the iron away as we never use it❤
Not overthinking is easy and not easy at the same time hahaha
A lot of good advice. I just retired a month ago; and I am finding the self-scheduling and lack of chaos, deadlines, being around people, very refreshing. I am a perennial list maker, and Explorer though; and I really still need to figure out how to relax, and to not feel like I have to spend so much time being informed or culturally ambitious. I really think unstructured time is super important, and something that I have neglected. I need self-acceptance, less clutter, more living in the Present.
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Congratulations on your retirement! I retired at the end of 2022 & I’m enjoying it so much! Wishing you a wonderful retirement!!
I can relate! I used to get massages too. Overpriced, rushed service, big hassle getting dressed and undressed, the face down position in the head rest gave me panic attacks, therapists spend most of the time worrying about keeping the sheet over you, tucking and retucking ugh!
Simplifying make up routine, not purchasing plastic wraps and baggies( expensive& wasteful. I bought beeswax pretty floral reusable wraps/ bags. I also stopped buying paper towels and took old towels, cut them into little squares for messes. Less stress because I am buying less and hauling less stuff from the car and into the house and then trash! Saves money and time😊
I saved so much time and energy after quitting friendships that wasn’t for me
Great list. The thing that keeps bringing me back to your videos is the philosophy of technique, tactics and mindset of minimalism and life choices over just getting rid or items, buying less or organizing. The thought processes you discuss are so practical and elegant for real change. Thank you.
wonderfully said !
Yes!
I love what you said about holidays! I’m a parent, and used to run myself ragged trying to “do it all” every single Christmas and ended up sick and worn out “Rudolph the red nose reindeer” with a cold every year. Now I ask the kids, what is one tradition you want to keep doing? This brings my list from 25 things to 4, and every year is WAY more peaceful, calm and memorable for all of us.❤️
She is my safe place on TH-cam I put these videos on to fall asleep or unwind to as her voice is so soothing. Sending you endless love from Ireland 🇮🇪 ❤️❤️
Oh so many of these on your list I too have quit. Such freedom.
And for #50 ... Feeling guilty or bad for forgetting something
Work more diligently on surface clutter as I've found it really causes anxiety and stress. Thank you. Yes, those of us that are HSP & Empaths need all your videos we can get! Bless you!
Something I've quit is social media and haven't been on any social media for about 3 or 4 years. I am so glad I did as I feel it has improved my self esteem, how i see myself and helped me to make the most of my days.
This video came to me exactly when I needed it the most. I’ve been feeling overwhelmed and lost these past weeks and thanks to your words I think I’ll be able to be fine again pretty soon. Keep doing what you do. ❤
I envy that youve figured all this out at such a young age. I'm 68 and am amazed at stuff I'm still figuring out. If I'd known better 35 years ago it would have made much of my life profoundly easier. Good on you!
Lots of great tips here! I laughed when you mentioned not counting the books you read.. I started recording my books - not so much because I needed to know a number, but so I would remember which books I've read and whether I would like to read them again. I also stopped thinking I had to finish a book or movie just because I started it. There are plenty of other books out there to try!
I am 59 now and have come pretty much to the same conclusions over the course of my life, other than showering. But that’s just because I go out with our dog twice a day and it’s more of a power walk than a stroll, but otherwise all of what you say i can wholeheartedly endorse as super helpful!😊😊😊🌺🌺🌸🌸🌸
Great tips Vera! The main thing I have done to simplify and feel better is I deleted Instagram and only go on FB occasionally (like 2-3 times a month as opposed to my old habit of 2-3 times per day). I found that I don't miss it and I have felt happier and have less FOMO. I also deleted all my time and money waster game apps like Gardenscape and Homescape. Now I just play Words with Friends with 2 or 3 people.
I have FB only until my youngest daughter graduates high school. She is in the school’s competition marching band & I go on the parents page to look for photos other parents may have gotten of her and for info. Once she graduates, I’m deleting it & Instagram both
Holiday decor is beautiful but so time consuming and of course lots of clutter. I have not put up decor for the last four years and love the time and space and not having to move furniture for a holiday. Like you nentioned I will enjoy looking at it in other homes and stores. Great list.
I think it’s great you’ve realized these things while you are still young. It took me till I retired to learn them. One reason is money, the other is now I just simply don’t care. 😂
Hahaha I love how we care less about things when we get older :D
I reduced the amount of times I go to the car wash. My car doesn’t need to be spotless. And I routinize the foods I keep in the house so they’re healthy and mix it up when I eat out.
I quit working full time so I can have more time for creativity and self care
Many good ideas , both the video & readers' comments , that inspire all of us to examine & adjust our lifestyles for happiness & health . For some , it's doing dishes at night , for others it's a morning routine , some prefer multiple reading glasses / sunglasses at hand , others it's one specific pair in one spot , etc. When reading the comments , we realize " the good life " comes in many forms . 🥰
So true! I love reading the comments as well :)
Oh Vera, I feel you totally understand me and we never met. I talk down to myself often, verbally and out loud. I turn small things into big projects and then they don’t get done. I am working on accomplishing small projects at a time. I also love your hair…. I appreciate you and your channel.
oh my i agree so much with the "not watching news everyday"! i think it's like a universal thing that news are all about negativity and it really hurts my mental health. i really appreciate your other tips! :)
I feel the same about decorations for Christmas. I love looking at them, but bot in my home, I don't go all out, mostly because uts just too much and also I don't want to raise my electric bill even more.
“Pointless discussions” - This 💯. I have a friend who continually rants on politics and it is so tiresome. It’s not a matter of agreeing or disagreeing, just pointless.
#22 super important. Totally agree (as an INFJ/HSP)
Also digital minimalism: so important for myself
Plus avoiding meaningless conversations ! Tell me about it. I mean avoiding surface level relationships all together.
New subscriber here, very much enjoying and benefitting from your content! One thing i have quit is letting my mail/email/voucemail pile up. I just deal with the very few things that actually require action and then recycle/delete everything else as soon as it comes in. If its an email i dont want to deal with in the future, i unsubscribe, and i block calls from numbers i dont know or don't want to keep getting. Much easier and quieter this way.
I really like your simplified outlook on a lot of the things that are pushed by “slow/intentional living” influencers. Like morning routines or productivity lists. I had it continuously in the back of my mind that my life won’t be put together till I have those systems in place, and hearing you talk about them just complicating things really clicked with me… totally true! Such a relief 😂
Thanks! 😊
Thank you so much for the point about morning and evening routines! I just realized that for myself. The most important part of my morning routine is getting out of bed / getting into bed in the evening. Then come necessities like brushing teeth, doing dishes and taking care of my cats. Everything else is bonus and I'll only do it when I feel like it. In this way, a little morning yoga session can feel like a treat and not a chore.
A point that made me think was "stop treating myself to things I don't enjoy". I think I have to work on that. I might actually not enjoy (international) travelling that much, but I still do it almost every year and spend lots of money on it because I've always felt that it's expected of an "educated" person.
A lot of wisdom in this video :)
I'm glad you enjoyed the video and found some helpful things in here to reflect about for yourself! :) Have a lovely day
I am so with you on the international travel and expectations now I’m retired. I ask, ‘Do I really want to travel? ‘ I’ve done enough. And my knees hurt. And the airlines treat the public like hostages. Pleased to read someone else feels this way!
We were doing so well, in absolute agreement, then that coffee versus tea thing happened. I just don't know about that. 🤔😜 Hi Vera! 😃
My husband can drink a large cup of coffee at nite & immediately fall asleep - how / why is a mystery ... I , on the other hand , can merely look at a cup of coffee & stay awake all nite ! 😃
Hahahhaa I already knew you would disagree with that one when I wrote it down 😂☕ Honestly, I wish I could handle coffee a bit better, since I love the taste of it so much
@@SimpleHappyZen the darker roasts are less bitter and usually don’t bother me. If I drank the more common (USA) breakfast coffee I’d have to be very careful too. I don’t buy expensive coffee just a medium roast.
@@SimpleHappyZen I love the smell of coffee more than the taste - so much so that I linger as long as possible at the Starbucks drive up window , deeply inhaling the aroma , while waiting for my chai tea frap. ! ( I was told that they purposely intensify the aroma inside ) Bath 'n Body Works has had coffee scented candles , " Paris Cafe " , & ages ago , the coffee scented car fresheners which I bo't by the dozen & hoarded . Once in a while , I'll even brew a hazlenut or cinnamon dolce K-Cup , not to drink , but just to scent the house ! 🤣☕🤎
Dear Vera, I have been watching you for a year. I´ve seen all your videos, some of them several times. This is number one for me! Thank you with all my heart. Iva
Not having kids has made a big minimalist difference in my life
Thanks for sharing. Since retiring a couple years ago, I’ve adopted many of these mantras, but still have a few to work on. I’m not a minimalist, but still trying to simplify a bit. My focus is on doing what I enjoy, or need to do, when I feel like doing it. Life is too short to spend a lot of time cleaning, but it does get done regularly as needed. After a couple busy days, it helps to take a day or so to unwind and recharge. When traveling, I plan some things each day, but leave room for spontaneity. One thing I avoid is rushing so I allocate plenty of time.
Fantastic advice! I not only spent an hour scrolling before bed, but I doom scrolled through all the bad news and shootings in my area. My anxiety went through the roof! Now, I listen to nice music.
I quit social media and now I feel more focused. I used to spend a lot of time on social media and one day realised, looking at photos and stories of so many people who are not a part of my real life was not worth it. I just quit. I have been off of all social media for about 4 years now and loving it.
After making a spreadsheet and addressing my reaction to each of the 50 the items, I believe I may still have “Turning small things into big projects.” Problem. 😊
Hahahaha that's funny 😁 Hope you did find some helpful tips here and in your spreadsheet :)
Excellent advice I can relate to most of it except living in a hot climate I need to definitely shower every day. I have stopped watching the news & unsubscribed from Netflix. I have learnt to say no (at 64 yrs) & wish I had been your age with your wisdom. Your hair is lovely! 😍 So happy you have learnt to accept what you can & cannot do & your body shape (which is lovely) - that’s an amazing achievement ❤ lol ❤ Have a good week ahead 🙏💝
#32 is really good. The internet, apps, news, streaming lists etc can run your brain ragged fairly quickly.
As a Brazilian, I'll just ignore #44. Besides that, your video is one of the best content I've found in a long time on TH-cam. Thank you!
Life is better simple
This video is definitely going to help people caught up in this chaotic world. One more awesome video Vera. Thanks❤
Yay! Thank you!! :)
Some of them i already did with some i need to work on, but while watching this video i realised i'm not in the worst place. For now the think i have to work the most is to stop using phone so often.
It's okay to buy things that you know will improve you 😊 take your time
Watching your video made me realize I’ve been a minimalist before and now, your content made me more want to be a minimalist forever ❤
As soon as I started watching, I thought your hair looked great 😂
I feel like I've quit (or in some cases never done) most of the things you mentioned - go me! Still struggling with using my phone too much, reading the news too much, not taking healthy breaks and overthinking things, so thank you for the reminder that it's within my control to change these 💚 Going to get off my phone as soon as I've finished typing this comment 😂
I quit beating myself up too for not being a morning person. Great video. ❤❤❤
Quitting books that aren’t interesting has freed up a huge amount of time for me!
Excellent list! Wow!
I recently began converting to a low fat vegan diet. So I cut out oils, except seeds and very low oil foods.
By doing so I’ve lost several pounds and lowered my blood pressure numbers. Also my endurance is increasing!
Glad you enjoyed the video, and thank you for going vegan! 🤗💕🐮🐷🐔
Delightful video! With very helpful tips...though I wonder what #50 might have been :) As someone who struggles with perfectionism, I decided to "quit being an A student" last year. Strangely enough, I my grades didn't suffer, but I found I was so much calmer, better at retaining information, and enjoyed my life so much more.