You don't need a book to "downsize" in the old days, that was called "chucking out stuff you don't want" - you get a big container and then go and dump it. The End. No magic, not spirituality, no love the earth. Simple practicalities. The grandparents are laughing through their stupefaction.
I would never cut up or throw away a full passport! ok it's not your fingers, but it is a very beautiful achievement to remember and it doesn't take up 1 cubic meter either.
I gave away my electric guitar to a young man who could not buy one. Back in 1980 I paid $560 for it but never could practice. He would come visit me and play his heart out, so I gave it to him. Some of it was to get rid of the consumer guilt for never actually using it. I love artsy stuff because I love to make things so I am always seeing the creative potential to EVERYTHING. Now that I will be 81 next week I have more art supplies than I would have years left for but so hard to let go. But I do live in a tiny house and minimalist in other ways. Loved Marie Kondo's suggestions, Does it bring joy? Have I worn it in the past 2 years, etc. It is so hard to let go but feels so good when you do. And if you really need it in the future you can probably find it in a thrift shop. I love having each object in my closet have its own room to breathe. I even used my mother's hand made wedding veil by her turned into insect netting in the garden until it deteriorated. Letting go/not buying stuff is a noble LifesWork!!!
Ownership often grants access. Like my snowboard, mountain bike, or kayak (most expensive items I own). Minimalism is great, but this dude is taking it to the extreme.
I'm not a mom but I too feel my heart expand with such love and gratitude for this man and his thoughtful loving gesture to his mother! That feeling is innate to all who choose to access it! AND Bless all you Moms and their contribution to humanity! ♥️🙏🥰😍🥳♥️
most kids don't want their parents' junk. what parents call treasures. it all goes to a landfill at the end by calling 1 800 got junk. seriously. your memories are precious to YOU only. maybe your kids sure, but it's a burden and to a stranger it is pure trash
I've been decluttering for years but recently I've got tired of how it still seems like I have so much stuff, so I'm really stepping up my game with it and I've got rid of a heck of a lot. I think your point about making sure you don't just bring more stuff back into the house is a big one. I was definitely doing that. No more! This video just hyped me up to get rid of things I have been struggling with getting rid of. Thanks.
As an older mom myself, I would cherish my son's passport. I'm so glad that you passed yours on to your mother. I am slowly trying to follow your path and am getting rid of things that I once clung to but it's a hard and slow process. I really respect you for being able to find your happiness by letting go.
Just discovered your channel today! Both my parents were hoarders plus they were Depression Era children...they saved EVERYTHING! Finally, I was a Minimalist growing up, not by choice...it was called “Being Poor”! So when I got my own Independent Means where I could afford whatever I wanted, I basically did buy One of Everything! But now it’s starting feel “too much”...thanks for starting me on a New Journey!
We lost everything including our home for 30 years.We fought for the 20 years to get out of addiction. We paid dearly for our actions but we have been in recovery for 3 years. My husband draws disability and we're doing our best to get ourself in position to put a tiny home on our daughters property back in Kentucky where we know how to live off the land. If we were lucky enough to get a stimulus check again we want to try to get us a home again and enjoy the rest of our lives with our family. My husband used to be able to do all the building and everything on his own until he got hurt with the power company that he worked for 40 years. We just need some guidance in the right direction. Thank you for all you share because you never know who out there is really struggling to find their place back out in the world in a way that we give back instead of taking like we did in the past! Much love my friend! I love watching your channel!
Your story inspired me to cross that bridge and live off the grid. I have always been a minimalist myself, but I was still reliant on modern society for most of my need up to this year. I started my journey 2 years ago and I now live in full sustainability in New Caledonia an overseas French territory. There is a community of 12 people here with me following the same dream, some with children, it's small but it's a good beginning and we are showing other people around here that it works. Keep up the good work Rob.
The universe really does work in mysterious ways. I feel like the signs are always there, and whenever my mindset is on a certain wave, there is always something there to remind me, to show me, to bring whatever is on my mind to light. I came here from another TH-cam channel expecting to watch a video about plants and foraging your own food, clicked on the videos tab, and there in the first row I see this. This video was a helpful reminder to stay on the path of letting things go, living a minimalist lifestyle, and not becoming a person who is just overcome by the idea of having material possessions being a meaningful thing that fills a void. It's hard to explain in so many words. I just want to say thank you for encouraging me to continue to manifest this positive mindstate. Bless.
Rob this very interesting to watch with my Kenyan eyes. Here we have just enough and sometimes not enough. Thank you for showing this video. its food for thought.
I live in New York and I’ve never owned a car. When I compare myself to my friends who have cars, I see that they acquire so much more stuff. It really does induce spending.
nope not in williamsburg brooklyn where a good community exists of professionals (not hobos) living out of their vans and they own very little...i live in new york city and i wish i could own a car. mass transit is dangerous and dirty
It's difficult and never easy that's why I admire you for living a very simple and minimalistic life. Especially now, where most of the people cling to material things. Bow down to you. 👍
I've been working on my minimalism journey for 4 years now. I started out with a jam-packed 5 bedroom home with a double garage and an external studio, then each time we moved we would get a smaller house. In the next two months I'll be moving to Costa Rica with two suitcases and my hand-baggage. So I'm really happy with that. Of course I can still reduce further, there are so many items I am still attached to. But it's a journey and it takes time to loosen those emotional ties to posessions. Sometimes I feel like I give myself a hard time about the amount of things I have left (because truly, it feels like an absolute abundance and I'm so grateful to have so much!) but I know that my life can be leaner and more pared back. It gets harder to let go the further along you are, I feel. There's less easy choices to make, the items have survived many rounds of minimalism culls over the years. I always find it fascinating what people choose to live with - or without - there are of course recurring items in all minimalists possessions, but even with so few possesions there is diversity. I love that!
I love how mindful you are about donating items. I work at a nonprofit and we are inundated with clothes because people dump the stuff they don't want on us. Some of the stuff is absolutely unwearable by our clients. This creates so much stress for our staff. Thank you for your kindness toward this.
Hi Rob! New subscriber. Your video on going barefoot was actually a recommendation on TH-cam and from there I kept exploring your channel. I'm happy I did because it brought me to your videos about decluttering our lives from stuff. Just recently started to declutter my bedroom. I thought I was doing good but now I realized I could go deeper with it. Thank you for the tips and ideas.
My car died several months ago and I've been using my partner's car when available, and mostly public transport. I was going to buy a new car in 2020 but I've gotten quite used to public transport. It takes more time and effort, and it's an adjustment, but in my case it's doable, and it makes me happy to live more simply. It's also significantly cheaper!
This is occupying my thoughts at the moment. My car is old and will need to be replaced soon. I'm toying with the idea of not replacing it. The thought is liberating in a way because now I feel like I have a choice whereas 20 years ago it seemed like a necessity.
Lucille Kenney I can relate!! I still have my 2001 car but drive it less. I want to do without and my life situation isn't quite there. My insurance is due again in May and that's my goal to be elsewhere, car free (if not before)
Lucille Kenney you’ll feel very free if you don’t buy a new one! Try get your hands on a second hand bicycle and use public transport as much as possible, it’s liberating
Hopefully someday u will come to Thailand, I am a Thai who crazy about Sustainable lifestyle, permaculture design, simple life and just try to do , thank you for the good thing from you , Let’s you com to Thailand (at my land where difficult country side)
Wow!!! Brother great to hear your comment. I am from Bangladesh, living with agriculture and wishing to live and lead a minimalism life. Please take an invitation at here in Bangladesh.
Regarding plastic utensils at 17:00. I realized over the past several years that not taking the plastic utensil is really the key. So I keep a small plastic bag in my glove compartment with a handful of clean plastic utensils. And I’ve really started to use them and knowing that every time I take one of those home to wash and then add back to the bag in my car is one more plastic utensil saved from getting out in the world! Try it for yourself.
Yes, I hear you. I am making a simple cutlery pouch, pocket, like the kind you people use to store silverware...or use for fancy dinner parties. Very simple sewing project, hand or machine, and I am rolling it up and taking it everywhere with me, and keeping it in the glove box. A scrap piece of fabric, felt square, or bandana is the perfect size.
One things i learned from watching youtube video, it teached me that some people attracted to luxury stuff, high end junk stuff that created envy and evil thoughts. Take a look at versace case nor gucci....it was had so many tragedies by praising and possesion to stuff.
Oh my gosh my thoughts exactly! I wish I had explained it in this way to my husband.. less things equals more time for family, more time for our garden, more time to make beautiful meals for our health instead of always stressing.
I'm thinking about doing this with a $4,000 Ford F-150 V-8 pickup truck but that is a complicated thing, yet you have given me the idea, if I loan my truck to a friend & there is an expensive engine repair when he is driving it, it could cause bad feelings for him or me, but if I give the truck away, so it belongs to him, then I can use it & he can repair it... but it's still a bit complicated, no? One friend I could give the truck to (to share) is a man who would not have the money to repair the truck when it is broken, so I could not do this with him, we have to pay attention to the character of the friend we are considering a shared item.
Your videos are inspiring, and even though I have no desire to attain your level of minimalism I can appreciate how your examples can prompt me to reconsider many things in my life. However, I'll offer a counter-point to your drive to always "live in the moment". That's all well and good when things are going alright and you have many options to keep you occupied, but sometimes pondering the past and reliving your prior events can provide solace and encouragement during times of self-doubt, boredom, or listlessness - which are certainly features of your future days in old age or generally reduced ability. One of the main problems the elderly and infirm face - aside from intense boredom and loneliness - is a feeling of irrelevance. Reliving the past and being appreciative of one's past accomplishments and experiences is not only pleasant as a diversion, but can give one confirmation in dark times that one's life does matter.
Another helpful question is, can it be replaced for 20-30 dollars and within 20-30 miles? If it can be, you def don’t need it around. Things like extras... cases of tp, towels, gift bags etc. Think of stores as your closets. If you need it, you’ll find it!! It’s like a muscle and it needs exercised, but it does get easier over time.
I want way less stuff. It is clutter and have been doing this letting go stuff for a few year now. It is a slow process yet I feel lighter everytime I giving something to someone who really needs it. What I have found is that most people do not have the same passion that it did for the item. I also buy multipurpose things! It is fun to see what I can use one thing for! I absolutely love your life style. It brings my heart joy. I want to grow a jungle of edible food in my back yard. I also grow my own foods and herbs in pots and bins. Love love love your heart and soul. Thank you, you are truly a gift. I am humbled.
Always inspirational.. problems come from things you attach yourself to. Being attached to certain things is good but to many Is a ruckus 😂 look within to see what you can live without
I LOVE watching your videos! And I love even more to see you so happy with this lovely smile! 🤗 So happy to found you on TH-cam! Minimalist are the best! 👍
Love your work Rob. I don’t plan to go to your extreme but I’m definitely inspired to be more intentional about what I own and how I use it. Thank you so much.
Wonderful video and exactly what I needed to hear. I started simplifying a couple of months ago but I can't seem to work on anymore, it's all a blur. Room after room, box after shelf, I was stuck. This has given me the motivation that I needed. I have to remind myself that this is not a weekend project, this is a life change, a beautiful one! Thank you for taking your time to be the change
When we moved across town from a house to a condo we gave lots of tools to lots of people. We even put together some basic tool kits for kids 10+ of pliers, cutters, hammer, screwdrivers, adjustable wrench in a 12” bag.
Hey Rob. Just like you I used to collect all kinds of stuff before I dedicated my life on a minimalistic and sustainable lifestyle, although on another level as you are. I had a room full of 80's toys and action figures but suddenly had the view that it caused me to much energy to take care of stuff that I never used. I wanted a simple and stress-free life. I also was a big music collector; vinyl, cd's, memorabilia, bandshirts, you name it. That was emotionally a lot more difficult to clear out but I got rid of half of my record collection and I only kept those records which are important to me and helped me during difficult times in my life. I also gave a lot of bandshirts away to friends. sometimes it's not easy to say 'no' when a friend wants to give you a present. Yesterday, one of my best friends gave me a re-release of the first Iron Maiden album. I was thinking; I really don't need this because I have the original record. But he seemed so happy that he could give this to me, I wasn't able to say no. Today I gave him a Broken Bones record back from my collection, which I almost never listened to except for a few songs. And you are absolutly right; downsizing your life is almost a full-time job!
This gave me a number of new ideas. Thank you for creating and posting this. I believe that before you make a purchase, you need to visualize the future of the item you are purchasing..whether it's an appliance, a piece of clothing, a piece of furniture, a cosmetic product, or a vehicle. Ask yourself "Where will this item be in 5 or 10 years from now?" and "Is this item going to help me live better and enrich my life?" I made a trip to IKEA some time back and started filling my cart. After getting the cart full, I looked at the items and realized that I honestly didn't need any of them. I also found out that the items were cheaply made somewhere else in the world besides Sweden. The same holds true at The Dollar Tree with a lot of their items. Just because something is inexpensive or on sale doesn't mean it's a bargain or that we can't live without it.
Will Mike Totally agree. yin/yang for most things. Dollar tree could be"useful", however WAY too much plastic which I don't buy. Makes you wonder if it's owned by a petrochemical co?
I've been without a car many times in my life. There were times when i was young that it was fine, but at this stage in life I'm so very grateful to have a vehicle to get to the grocery store and doctors'appointments and to drive my son to work and visit my mom. I would definitely put my vehicle in the category of things that add value to my life. And while sharing a vehicle might sound good in theory, at some point there will be expensive repairs and maintenance costs that someone must pay, and few want to share in that aspect of ownership.
I listened to podcast last week about downsizing and simplifying. This past weekend I decided to go through my closet and clothes in general and did just that! I had two laundry baskets full of clothes sitting for over a month of pretty much untouched clothes. Mostly because I pretty much work like a slave and I’m in work clothes 90% of the time....(sad but true) So I went through my closet and clothes, realized there were clothes I hadn’t worn in months and some years... got rid of them... packed an entire garbage bag to to point I could barely tie it! Damn, that felt good! Refreshing! Now, I have a small closet of clothes I’ll wear and a few drawers for underclothes. Downsizing and simplifying can be SO relieving!!
I totally agree with you about re-using/repurposing plastic stuff, as soon as a plastic item is manufactured it becomes future garbage. Whether it is now or in a years time makes no difference.
You had me holding my breath with your passport!! Whew!! That was a grand gift to give your Mom!! All your tips were very well spoken. I have been downsizing for a few years and learned some new tips today. I also grew up in a collectors home, so I have inherited a lot of things but it just gives me anxiety. It's hard to get rid of things when your parents come over and want to see everything they gave you. I feel like I have to wait until they pass away to get rid of it. If I did it beforehand they would be very hurt and have a heart attack that I gave it all away! I don't know how to solve that.
There is a book; Clear Your Clutter With Feng Shui by Karen Kingston. There is reason after reason why people hold onto things. And, there is one special section in the book on collectors. I apologize for sounding harsh but, they are using you as a rent free storage unit. When your parents come over, are they coming to visit you? Or, are they coming over to monitor how you, their unpaid curator of their collection(s), are taking care of "their" things? Are they just coming over to visit their things? You might try an experiment. If it is physically possible, wrap their things carefully and pack away in a box. Hide the box. See what their reaction is the next time they come over. Then, proceed accordingly. If they don't notice,...get rid of it. If they do notice, "their" stuff is gone, then send the box back home with them. I had a similar issue with my mother-in-law. She was a compulsive shopper. A true shopaholic. She simply had to go bargan hunting and looking for something on SALE. But, her cheap, on sale junk always found its way to our house because she "wanted us to have it." And, "it was on SALE". I had to just slowly but surely, bit by bit, slip things into the trash. Best of luck on reclaiming "Your" space for you. PS. Karen Kingston also has a web site, monthly news letter, and on-line courses.
thank you for acknowledging that it takes work. I am trying to downsize now and I am pretty overwhelmed. I am also realizing that it is exhausting me. The stuff has been draining me of precious energy. I also really like your understanding of community and sharing. My goal is to whittle it all down and get on track with my life.
I've been wanting to get on and do this myself, but, as you say, it takes a lot of time, patience and effort to get it done. I think you have given me fresh inspiration to do it. I have an apartment in a small city, but have the bonus of a huge balcony, which I am using to start growing my own food. Very important and a luxury I want to utilize as it brings much joy to me, emotionally and spiritually.
I have been a minimalist most of my adult life, but this video provides me lme with so many little gems! I see more the ways I am stuck! Gracias, chico. By the way, you look good. Healthy. Calm. Not inflamed. That 365 days did some amazing things to and for you, clearly!
Thanks for this video. I am living in a big house full of stuff and have been downsizing for about three years. It has been like peeling stuff away by layers but I need it to go much faster. You hit on a few points that resonated with where I am getting stuck and I believe you have helped me to move on.
Rebooting my journey again. I have material from previous journeys needing processing. Might have to do it presently backwards since the inspiration is best in the present moments. Thank you for awakening me.
You had me on the edge of my seat when you said you were going to cut it up!!! BTW love your content, I have been sharing with a lot of my friends and absolutely love your inspirational spirit. I am curious if you would do some sustainable living in areas which you cant really grow most foods like northern Canada where we have to deal with extreme seasonal changes and tend to own more things due to climate. Just curious what your ideas are on this topic and maybe some tips! Thanks!
Your knowlidge and wisdom are treasure. Thank you for sharing it with the rest of humanity, hopefully more People Will wake up and walk this path. Each one of us have a choice to choose what Kind of live they want to live... Either in harmony with Mother Nature or against Nature, in destructive way. You are the ritchest man I know, really one of a kind and I cant thank you enaugh for inspiring me to really think about "life" in the best way possible and change my every day actions so they are good for me, my community and the planet. Once again Rob, thank you so mutch! Greetings from Croatia ✌️❤️🙏🌍
Oh my god....I JUST recently donated MY HUGE HUGE beanie baby collection. I had them for many many years, I collected them and it used to be my passion to collect them, especially the RARE ones. So it took me sooo long to get past the sentimental feelings about it. But I finally did it, I donated them and many less fortunate kids are enjoying them and love them like i used to! It feels better that i was able to find a way to not just trash my items but that they are still used to bring joy to others.
It's so funny to imagine you with hundreds of beanie babies! 😂 I appreciate you sharing your story and tips. I also got rid of a lot of stuff over the years, and I try to keep it that way, but I still have lots of stuff that I find it difficult to get rid of (emotionally difficult or the fear of regret in the future).
It’s nice to get insight into your background. I used to be a collector too...I still have too much stuff. It’s not that I don’t want to get rid of things, it will probably just end up in landfill so I keep it. 😣
Some great ideas. Especially the sharing. That would encourage more of a sense of community. Love his philosophy and attitude to life and mother earth. Xx
As a mom and a minimalist, I wouldn’t want your passport. If you read Marie Kondo’s book, she recommends not giving your stuff away to family members because it then becomes their burden to deal with. The memories in the passport are yours but you don’t need the passport to remember those places. Your mom may or may not have kept your postcards from your exotic travels.
Hi Rob I love the tips! I wanted to meet you while you were in Orlando to help in your garden and I planned on doing so but my grandmother got ill and I had to tend to her. I hope to meet you someday! Thanks for being an inspiration!
Great video! I'm continually downsizing and have really found so much freedom in letting go of things and staying present. Thanks for all your insight!
the lawn mower thing made way too much sense. Sharing is the way to go. When's the last time you saw all your neighbors wanting to mow the lawn at the exact same time. And even **if** all the neighbors wanted to mow at the same time, imagine how loud that would be XD.
I would love to see a video about the 100 things you own- it would give an idea of what is very important. For me the hardest thing to declutter is supplies. As a person who likes to make as much of my own supplies and things as I reasonably can, it takes many tools and supplies. It is hard to say, what I will need next week or month, when new idea comes in.
Hello my friend. Great advice as always. We need to let go of things that no longer service us. I am sure your mom will love the passport...stay blessed............MINDY
Hey man! Brilliant, got lot of ideas. Most of them I have heard from my wife, and minimalists she follows, already but obviously I just needed another more resonating source =) Anyway, giving tools away but leaving option to lend it was the best idea ever. Got a loooot of tools I use sometimes so this method is perfect. Thanks again for the videos!!!
Great stuff Rob! Enjoyable content but remember one long-haul flight costs us 9 square metres of Arctic ice. Best advice is no more than 1x long haul flight every 7 years. Otherwise number of possessions matters only so much.
Really good points to keep people thinking. It is not necessary for each of us to have one of everything. I wish there were more thrift shops available for all kinds of items. I’m always looking but rarely finding the stuff i need in thrift stores so I end up buying from second hand online stores. Which then must be shipped.
Renting stuff takes a ton of time, and time is money. Obviously if you have a good network to share stuff that is awesome, but then you have to drive back and forth to pick up and then give back the item. Oftentimes, people misuse your stuff, which adds in a new element to sharing, especially when the person doesn't have much money or realize how much the damage actually costs to the owner.
Thank you Rob! :) I like from birds the simplicity on that aswell. :) They represent to me the freedom and the essence. They live free, without posessions, without money, in abundance and free. :) And singing beautiful songs. :) We are all one, Namaste!
Your sharing idea sounds great for back in the 50s and 60s, but nowadays hardly anybody ever even knows their neighbors and yes I know that would be a good way to get to know them, but unless they’re real close friends I’m not so sure even I would want to have a blender that my neighbor comes over to borrow.
Great video! I have 3 bedroom house and 6 moths to purge. Only two piles,trash and sale. There is about 2 trash bags per day going out and no purchases but water and fresh produce. I am posting online every nick knack I have and made about $ 2,000 in two months. Hope to eventually scale down only to my Prius and travel.
I grew up in a lower-income family, and wasn't inclined to own *more* as a result, but was only a kid when I began to explore concepts of Voluntary Simplicity and frugality, and had inclinations toward a monastic life, despite not being of a religious bent. I find that I'm an "enthusiastic consumer," mostly when circumstances in my life were making me anxious, but I spent years living out of a backpack, and working outdoors, and those were the most beneficial years of my life. Presently, I have responsibilities that keep me from living that way again, though I'd live off-grid in a small cabin, and so-on, at the drop of a hat, because I enjoyed it so much before.
I do get joy from some of the items that have accompanied me through my 6 decades of life, and I miss a few that I lost. I think it's ok to be fond of material objects, look after them and so on. It's not all about their use-value, for me. Bur having said that I am pretty minimalist. One question I ask when parting from things I use seldom but are quite specialised is "Would it be easy to find another one of these? and would it cost a lot to replace?"
The Beginner’s Guide to Downsize Your Life: www.robgreenfield.org/downsize/
YOU’RE A FRAUD.
Hey.. I wanna contact you rob... I need some guidance regarding minimslism.. I am in a phase of my life I need to down size and re-evaluate life
@@abcdefghi330 it’s a scam. Google him.
You don't need a book to "downsize" in the old days, that was called "chucking out stuff you don't want" - you get a big container and then go and dump it. The End. No magic, not spirituality, no love the earth. Simple practicalities. The grandparents are laughing through their stupefaction.
I would never cut up or throw away a full passport! ok it's not your fingers, but it is a very beautiful achievement to remember and it doesn't take up 1 cubic meter either.
I gave away my electric guitar to a young man who could not buy one. Back in 1980 I paid $560 for it but never could practice. He would come visit me and play his heart out, so I gave it to him. Some of it was to get rid of the consumer guilt for never actually using it. I love artsy stuff because I love to make things so I am always seeing the creative potential to EVERYTHING. Now that I will be 81 next week I have more art supplies than I would have years left for but so hard to let go. But I do live in a tiny house and minimalist in other ways. Loved Marie Kondo's suggestions, Does it bring joy? Have I worn it in the past 2 years, etc. It is so hard to let go but feels so good when you do. And if you really need it in the future you can probably find it in a thrift shop. I love having each object in my closet have its own room to breathe. I even used my mother's hand made wedding veil by her turned into insect netting in the garden until it deteriorated. Letting go/not buying stuff is a noble LifesWork!!!
One of the keys to minimalism is remembering/recognizing that access is often better than ownership
This is fact!
Sounds like the "dating VS marriage" debate
I saw a Bumper Sticker that read, “If it Flies, Floats or F#%ks...it is cheaper to Rent than Buy it! “ 😂
Ownership often grants access. Like my snowboard, mountain bike, or kayak (most expensive items I own). Minimalism is great, but this dude is taking it to the extreme.
I ask myself “if I were to die today, would someone want it?” And that helps me get rid of stuff.
That's actually a really good way to look at it.
That’s like Swedish Death Cleaning.
I'm a mom and that passport is exactly the kind of gift I would treasure from one of my kids. Passing things on to bring a higher joy❤
He’s a pretty thoughtful son, eh. Good stuff, Rob, as always. Where you headed to next, or are you staying in Orlando?
I was just thinking this. My kids are still little but the thought got me all teary💗
I'm not a mom but I too feel my heart expand with such love and gratitude for this man and his thoughtful loving gesture to his mother! That feeling is innate to all who choose to access it! AND Bless all you Moms and their contribution to humanity! ♥️🙏🥰😍🥳♥️
most kids don't want their parents' junk. what parents call treasures. it all goes to a landfill at the end by calling 1 800 got junk. seriously. your memories are precious to YOU only. maybe your kids sure, but it's a burden and to a stranger it is pure trash
You're not only a good gardener amd minimalist but you're a man so deep with a heart....
He has the biggest heart ever
We all could very well be watching the most sincere person on YT.
I've been decluttering for years but recently I've got tired of how it still seems like I have so much stuff, so I'm really stepping up my game with it and I've got rid of a heck of a lot. I think your point about making sure you don't just bring more stuff back into the house is a big one. I was definitely doing that. No more! This video just hyped me up to get rid of things I have been struggling with getting rid of. Thanks.
As an older mom myself, I would cherish my son's passport. I'm so glad that you passed yours on to your mother. I am slowly trying to follow your path and am getting rid of things that I once clung to but it's a hard and slow process. I really respect you for being able to find your happiness by letting go.
Just discovered your channel today! Both my parents were hoarders plus they were Depression Era children...they saved EVERYTHING! Finally, I was a Minimalist growing up, not by choice...it was called “Being Poor”! So when I got my own Independent Means where I could afford whatever I wanted, I basically did buy One of Everything! But now it’s starting feel “too much”...thanks for starting me on a New Journey!
We lost everything including our home for 30 years.We fought for the 20 years to get out of addiction. We paid dearly for our actions but we have been in recovery for 3 years. My husband draws disability and we're doing our best to get ourself in position to put a tiny home on our daughters property back in Kentucky where we know how to live off the land. If we were lucky enough to get a stimulus check again we want to try to get us a home again and enjoy the rest of our lives with our family. My husband used to be able to do all the building and everything on his own until he got hurt with the power company that he worked for 40 years. We just need some guidance in the right direction. Thank you for all you share because you never know who out there is really struggling to find their place back out in the world in a way that we give back instead of taking like we did in the past! Much love my friend! I love watching your channel!
Hey mary, hope you got yr tiny house
@@charliehobson33 we did!!!🙏🎉🎊
@@marypaigeflynn4512 awesome :-) :-) :-)
What a life journey! So proud of you both!!
@@meimei295 🥰❤️❤️🙏
Your story inspired me to cross that bridge and live off the grid. I have always been a minimalist myself, but I was still reliant on modern society for most of my need up to this year. I started my journey 2 years ago and I now live in full sustainability in New Caledonia an overseas French territory. There is a community of 12 people here with me following the same dream, some with children, it's small but it's a good beginning and we are showing other people around here that it works. Keep up the good work Rob.
The universe really does work in mysterious ways. I feel like the signs are always there, and whenever my mindset is on a certain wave, there is always something there to remind me, to show me, to bring whatever is on my mind to light. I came here from another TH-cam channel expecting to watch a video about plants and foraging your own food, clicked on the videos tab, and there in the first row I see this. This video was a helpful reminder to stay on the path of letting things go, living a minimalist lifestyle, and not becoming a person who is just overcome by the idea of having material possessions being a meaningful thing that fills a void. It's hard to explain in so many words. I just want to say thank you for encouraging me to continue to manifest this positive mindstate. Bless.
Your comment really energised me. I also found him in the same way that you told. I am also fighting for a simplify life.
@@KhetKhamar_bd Blessings, brother. Wishing you all the peace you seek. It is attainable.
Rob this very interesting to watch with my Kenyan eyes. Here we have just enough and sometimes not enough. Thank you for showing this video. its food for thought.
But you have internet? Amazing.
Greetings from Switzerland.
I live in New York and I’ve never owned a car. When I compare myself to my friends who have cars, I see that they acquire so much more stuff. It really does induce spending.
nope not in williamsburg brooklyn where a good community exists of professionals (not hobos) living out of their vans and they own very little...i live in new york city and i wish i could own a car. mass transit is dangerous and dirty
It's difficult and never easy that's why I admire you for living a very simple and minimalistic life. Especially now, where most of the people cling to material things. Bow down to you. 👍
That fiddle fig leaf looks amazing.
What a beautiful fiddle leaf tree next to you. Thank you for creating this video.
I've been working on my minimalism journey for 4 years now. I started out with a jam-packed 5 bedroom home with a double garage and an external studio, then each time we moved we would get a smaller house. In the next two months I'll be moving to Costa Rica with two suitcases and my hand-baggage. So I'm really happy with that. Of course I can still reduce further, there are so many items I am still attached to. But it's a journey and it takes time to loosen those emotional ties to posessions. Sometimes I feel like I give myself a hard time about the amount of things I have left (because truly, it feels like an absolute abundance and I'm so grateful to have so much!) but I know that my life can be leaner and more pared back. It gets harder to let go the further along you are, I feel. There's less easy choices to make, the items have survived many rounds of minimalism culls over the years.
I always find it fascinating what people choose to live with - or without - there are of course recurring items in all minimalists possessions, but even with so few possesions there is diversity. I love that!
I love how mindful you are about donating items. I work at a nonprofit and we are inundated with clothes because people dump the stuff they don't want on us. Some of the stuff is absolutely unwearable by our clients. This creates so much stress for our staff. Thank you for your kindness toward this.
Hi Rob! New subscriber. Your video on going barefoot was actually a recommendation on TH-cam and from there I kept exploring your channel. I'm happy I did because it brought me to your videos about decluttering our lives from stuff.
Just recently started to declutter my bedroom. I thought I was doing good but now I realized I could go deeper with it. Thank you for the tips and ideas.
Thanks for popping in my screen! Lifechanging and inspiring. I'll start to declutter my life!
I’m glad that you did not cut it up.... joy iand giving is of the highest resonance..... and it lives on even when our body dies.
My car died several months ago and I've been using my partner's car when available, and mostly public transport. I was going to buy a new car in 2020 but I've gotten quite used to public transport. It takes more time and effort, and it's an adjustment, but in my case it's doable, and it makes me happy to live more simply. It's also significantly cheaper!
Keren Duchan, you might look into whether your city has a car sharing cooperative you can join. There is one in Bay Area called City Share.
Keren Duchan --get a bicycle
This is occupying my thoughts at the moment. My car is old and will need to be replaced soon. I'm toying with the idea of not replacing it. The thought is liberating in a way because now I feel like I have a choice whereas 20 years ago it seemed like a necessity.
Lucille Kenney
I can relate!!
I still have my 2001 car but drive it less. I want to do without and my life situation isn't quite there. My insurance is due again in May and that's my goal to be elsewhere, car free (if not before)
Lucille Kenney you’ll feel very free if you don’t buy a new one! Try get your hands on a second hand bicycle and use public transport as much as possible, it’s liberating
Such nachas seeing you be so considerate and loving toward your mom!
Really excellent points, especially liked idea that plastic garbage in your house is the same as being in landfill. Of course don’t bring in more!
Hopefully someday u will come to Thailand, I am a Thai who crazy about Sustainable lifestyle, permaculture design, simple life and just try to do , thank you for the good thing from you , Let’s you com to Thailand (at my land where difficult country side)
Wow!!!
Brother great to hear your comment. I am from Bangladesh, living with agriculture and wishing to live and lead a minimalism life. Please take an invitation at here in Bangladesh.
Regarding plastic utensils at 17:00. I realized over the past several years that not taking the plastic utensil is really the key. So I keep a small plastic bag in my glove compartment with a handful of clean plastic utensils. And I’ve really started to use them and knowing that every time I take one of those home to wash and then add back to the bag in my car is one more plastic utensil saved from getting out in the world! Try it for yourself.
Yes, I hear you. I am making a simple cutlery pouch, pocket, like the kind you people use to store silverware...or use for fancy dinner parties. Very simple sewing project, hand or machine, and I am rolling it up and taking it everywhere with me, and keeping it in the glove box. A scrap piece of fabric, felt square, or bandana is the perfect size.
I love you, I love your story, i like the way you are. Excellent job
One things i learned from watching youtube video, it teached me that some people attracted to luxury stuff, high end junk stuff that created envy and evil thoughts. Take a look at versace case nor gucci....it was had so many tragedies by praising and possesion to stuff.
Oh my gosh my thoughts exactly! I wish I had explained it in this way to my husband.. less things equals more time for family, more time for our garden, more time to make beautiful meals for our health instead of always stressing.
What to do with a tub full of pictures from the past?
I'm thinking about doing this with a $4,000 Ford F-150 V-8 pickup truck but that is a complicated thing, yet you have given me the idea, if I loan my truck to a friend & there is an expensive engine repair when he is driving it, it could cause bad feelings for him or me, but if I give the truck away, so it belongs to him, then I can use it & he can repair it...
but it's still a bit complicated, no? One friend I could give the truck to (to share) is a man who would not have the money to repair the truck when it is broken, so I could not do this with him, we have to pay attention to the character of the friend we are considering a shared item.
So glad to hear that you came to visit us Cambodia. Here your cambodian fan 😁
So glad I found your channel and get an inside look into your life! The world only needs one to start change!
Your videos are inspiring, and even though I have no desire to attain your level of minimalism I can appreciate how your examples can prompt me to reconsider many things in my life.
However, I'll offer a counter-point to your drive to always "live in the moment". That's all well and good when things are going alright and you have many options to keep you occupied, but sometimes pondering the past and reliving your prior events can provide solace and encouragement during times of self-doubt, boredom, or listlessness - which are certainly features of your future days in old age or generally reduced ability.
One of the main problems the elderly and infirm face - aside from intense boredom and loneliness - is a feeling of irrelevance. Reliving the past and being appreciative of one's past accomplishments and experiences is not only pleasant as a diversion, but can give one confirmation in dark times that one's life does matter.
You continue to be a gift, Rob. ❤️
Another helpful question is, can it be replaced for 20-30 dollars and within 20-30 miles? If it can be, you def don’t need it around. Things like extras... cases of tp, towels, gift bags etc. Think of stores as your closets. If you need it, you’ll find it!!
It’s like a muscle and it needs exercised, but it does get easier over time.
I want way less stuff. It is clutter and have been doing this letting go stuff for a few year now. It is a slow process yet I feel lighter everytime I giving something to someone who really needs it. What I have found is that most people do not have the same passion that it did for the item. I also buy multipurpose things! It is fun to see what I can use one thing for! I absolutely love your life style. It brings my heart joy. I want to grow a jungle of edible food in my back yard. I also grow my own foods and herbs in pots and bins. Love love love your heart and soul. Thank you, you are truly a gift. I am humbled.
Always inspirational.. problems come from things you attach yourself to. Being attached to certain things is good but to many Is a ruckus 😂 look within to see what you can live without
One of the most important videos you have made. Keep up the inspirational work Rob and thanks for sharing.
I LOVE watching your videos! And I love even more to see you so happy with this lovely smile! 🤗 So happy to found you on TH-cam! Minimalist are the best! 👍
Love your work Rob. I don’t plan to go to your extreme but I’m definitely inspired to be more intentional about what I own and how I use it. Thank you so much.
You are a great human being Rob ! Lots of love !
Wonderful video and exactly what I needed to hear. I started simplifying a couple of months ago but I can't seem to work on anymore, it's all a blur. Room after room, box after shelf, I was stuck. This has given me the motivation that I needed. I have to remind myself that this is not a weekend project, this is a life change, a beautiful one! Thank you for taking your time to be the change
When we moved across town from a house to a condo we gave lots of tools to lots of people. We even put together some basic tool kits for kids 10+ of pliers, cutters, hammer, screwdrivers, adjustable wrench in a 12” bag.
Hey Rob. Just like you I used to collect all kinds of stuff before I dedicated my life on a minimalistic and sustainable lifestyle, although on another level as you are. I had a room full of 80's toys and action figures but suddenly had the view that it caused me to much energy to take care of stuff that I never used. I wanted a simple and stress-free life.
I also was a big music collector; vinyl, cd's, memorabilia, bandshirts, you name it.
That was emotionally a lot more difficult to clear out but I got rid of half of my record collection and I only kept those records which are important to me and helped me during difficult times in my life.
I also gave a lot of bandshirts away to friends.
sometimes it's not easy to say 'no' when a friend wants to give you a present. Yesterday, one of my best friends gave me a re-release of the first Iron Maiden album. I was thinking; I really don't need this because I have the original record. But he seemed so happy that he could give this to me, I wasn't able to say no. Today I gave him a Broken Bones record back from my collection, which I almost never listened to except for a few songs.
And you are absolutly right; downsizing your life is almost a full-time job!
This gave me a number of new ideas. Thank you for creating and posting this. I believe that before you make a purchase, you need to visualize the future of the item you are purchasing..whether it's an appliance, a piece of clothing, a piece of furniture, a cosmetic product, or a vehicle. Ask yourself "Where will this item be in 5 or 10 years from now?" and "Is this item going to help me live better and enrich my life?" I made a trip to IKEA some time back and started filling my cart. After getting the cart full, I looked at the items and realized that I honestly didn't need any of them. I also found out that the items were cheaply made somewhere else in the world besides Sweden. The same holds true at The Dollar Tree with a lot of their items. Just because something is inexpensive or on sale doesn't mean it's a bargain or that we can't live without it.
Will Mike
Totally agree. yin/yang for most things.
Dollar tree could be"useful", however WAY too much plastic which I don't buy. Makes you wonder if it's owned by a petrochemical co?
I've been without a car many times in my life. There were times when i was young that it was fine, but at this stage in life I'm so very grateful to have a vehicle to get to the grocery store and doctors'appointments and to drive my son to work and visit my mom. I would definitely put my vehicle in the category of things that add value to my life. And while sharing a vehicle might sound good in theory, at some point there will be expensive repairs and maintenance costs that someone must pay, and few want to share in that aspect of ownership.
Keep up the good work Rob
I listened to podcast last week about downsizing and simplifying. This past weekend I decided to go through my closet and clothes in general and did just that!
I had two laundry baskets full of clothes sitting for over a month of pretty much untouched clothes. Mostly because I pretty much work like a slave and I’m in work clothes 90% of the time....(sad but true)
So I went through my closet and clothes, realized there were clothes I hadn’t worn in months and some years... got rid of them... packed an entire garbage bag to to point I could barely tie it!
Damn, that felt good! Refreshing! Now, I have a small closet of clothes I’ll wear and a few drawers for underclothes. Downsizing and simplifying can be SO relieving!!
I totally agree with you about re-using/repurposing plastic stuff, as soon as a plastic item is manufactured it becomes future garbage. Whether it is now or in a years time makes no difference.
You had me holding my breath with your passport!! Whew!! That was a grand gift to give your Mom!! All your tips were very well spoken. I have been downsizing for a few years and learned some new tips today. I also grew up in a collectors home, so I have inherited a lot of things but it just gives me anxiety. It's hard to get rid of things when your parents come over and want to see everything they gave you. I feel like I have to wait until they pass away to get rid of it. If I did it beforehand they would be very hurt and have a heart attack that I gave it all away! I don't know how to solve that.
There is a book; Clear Your Clutter With Feng Shui by Karen Kingston.
There is reason after reason why people hold onto things.
And, there is one special section in the book on collectors.
I apologize for sounding harsh but, they are using you as a rent free storage unit. When your parents come over, are they coming to visit you? Or, are they coming over to monitor how you, their unpaid curator of their collection(s), are taking care of "their" things? Are they just coming over to visit their things?
You might try an experiment.
If it is physically possible, wrap their things carefully and pack away in a box. Hide the box.
See what their reaction is the next time they come over.
Then, proceed accordingly. If they don't notice,...get rid of it.
If they do notice, "their" stuff is gone, then send the box back home with them.
I had a similar issue with my mother-in-law. She was a compulsive shopper. A true shopaholic. She simply had to go bargan hunting and looking for something on SALE.
But, her cheap, on sale junk always found its way to our house because she "wanted us to have it." And, "it was on SALE".
I had to just slowly but surely, bit by bit, slip things into the trash.
Best of luck on reclaiming "Your" space for you.
PS. Karen Kingston also has a web site, monthly news letter, and on-line courses.
Me too. It was so uncomfortable to watch.
thank you for acknowledging that it takes work. I am trying to downsize now and I am pretty overwhelmed. I am also realizing that it is exhausting me. The stuff has been draining me of precious energy. I also really like your understanding of community and sharing. My goal is to whittle it all down and get on track with my life.
I've been wanting to get on and do this myself, but, as you say, it takes a lot of time, patience and effort to get it done.
I think you have given me fresh inspiration to do it.
I have an apartment in a small city, but have the bonus of a huge balcony, which I am using to start growing my own food. Very important and a luxury I want to utilize as it brings much joy to me, emotionally and spiritually.
i get free tools and take them to the local Tool Library for everyone to use .
NWforager It will be my pleasure if I have a neighbor like you!
I have been a minimalist most of my adult life, but this video provides me lme with so many little gems! I see more the ways I am stuck! Gracias, chico. By the way, you look good. Healthy. Calm. Not inflamed. That 365 days did some amazing things to and for you, clearly!
Thanks for this video. I am living in a big house full of stuff and have been downsizing for about three years. It has been like peeling stuff away by layers but I need it to go much faster. You hit on a few points that resonated with where I am getting stuck and I believe you have helped me to move on.
Rebooting my journey again. I have material from previous journeys needing processing. Might have to do it presently backwards since the inspiration is best in the present moments.
Thank you for awakening me.
You had me on the edge of my seat when you said you were going to cut it up!!! BTW love your content, I have been sharing with a lot of my friends and absolutely love your inspirational spirit. I am curious if you would do some sustainable living in areas which you cant really grow most foods like northern Canada where we have to deal with extreme seasonal changes and tend to own more things due to climate. Just curious what your ideas are on this topic and maybe some tips! Thanks!
Your knowlidge and wisdom are treasure. Thank you for sharing it with the rest of humanity, hopefully more People Will wake up and walk this path. Each one of us have a choice to choose what Kind of live they want to live... Either in harmony with Mother Nature or against Nature, in destructive way. You are the ritchest man I know, really one of a kind and I cant thank you enaugh for inspiring me to really think about "life" in the best way possible and change my every day actions so they are good for me, my community and the planet. Once again Rob, thank you so mutch! Greetings from Croatia ✌️❤️🙏🌍
You don't know how I feel when I see your content , all respect for you 🌸🌸
This is a really great talk on voluntary simplicity, really great!
I was so sad when you were going to cut it! So happy it’s going to your mama 🙏🏽💟
Love your life style, your story and your journey
Oh my god....I JUST recently donated MY HUGE HUGE beanie baby collection. I had them for many many years, I collected them and it used to be my passion to collect them, especially the RARE ones. So it took me sooo long to get past the sentimental feelings about it. But I finally did it, I donated them and many less fortunate kids are enjoying them and love them like i used to! It feels better that i was able to find a way to not just trash my items but that they are still used to bring joy to others.
What a beautiful gift you're giving your mother. I am learning so much from you, thank you for sharing your knowledge and experiences.
It's so funny to imagine you with hundreds of beanie babies! 😂 I appreciate you sharing your story and tips. I also got rid of a lot of stuff over the years, and I try to keep it that way, but I still have lots of stuff that I find it difficult to get rid of (emotionally difficult or the fear of regret in the future).
Love your green T-shirt and that plant 🌱 in the back ❤
It’s nice to get insight into your background. I used to be a collector too...I still have too much stuff. It’s not that I don’t want to get rid of things, it will probably just end up in landfill so I keep it. 😣
Some great ideas. Especially the sharing. That would encourage more of a sense of community. Love his philosophy and attitude to life and mother earth. Xx
The subtitles on this video are great. They're larger than subtitles I've seen on other videos. Not sure how you did this but it's really great.
As a mom and a minimalist, I wouldn’t want your passport. If you read Marie Kondo’s book, she recommends not giving your stuff away to family members because it then becomes their burden to deal with. The memories in the passport are yours but you don’t need the passport to remember those places. Your mom may or may not have kept your postcards from your exotic travels.
Great gift to give your mother. I enjoyed your video its motivated me to downsize my stuff since Im moving its a good time
Hi Rob I love the tips! I wanted to meet you while you were in Orlando to help in your garden and I planned on doing so but my grandmother got ill and I had to tend to her. I hope to meet you someday! Thanks for being an inspiration!
I love the idea of sharing possessions. So human!!!
Great video! I'm continually downsizing and have really found so much freedom in letting go of things and staying present. Thanks for all your insight!
the lawn mower thing made way too much sense. Sharing is the way to go.
When's the last time you saw all your neighbors wanting to mow the lawn at the exact same time. And even **if** all the neighbors wanted to mow at the same time, imagine how loud that would be XD.
I cringed when you flashed those scissors near your old Passport...
I did too. I was starting to question things.
Same! I’m glad he gave it to his mother.
Me too!!! I nearly had a panic attack
You make the world a better place Rob. I love you too! Thank you :)
I would love to see a video about the 100 things you own- it would give an idea of what is very important. For me the hardest thing to declutter is supplies. As a person who likes to make as much of my own supplies and things as I reasonably can, it takes many tools and supplies. It is hard to say, what I will need next week or month, when new idea comes in.
Hello my friend. Great advice as always. We need to let go of things that no longer service us. I am sure your mom will love the passport...stay blessed............MINDY
Things do not service us but serve
us. Serve is the verb. Service is the noun. Greetings from Switzerland.
Learned so much, thank you! I have been feeling this same need to lighten up and live in the present.
One of the hard thing for me to let go is my book collection... it is business books and self help books
Hey man! Brilliant, got lot of ideas. Most of them I have heard from my wife, and minimalists she follows, already but obviously I just needed another more resonating source =) Anyway, giving tools away but leaving option to lend it was the best idea ever. Got a loooot of tools I use sometimes so this method is perfect. Thanks again for the videos!!!
awesome its a great idea for your mom to have that passport, being a mother myself it is the greatest piece of memory that a mother could hold. nice
Great stuff Rob! Enjoyable content but remember one long-haul flight costs us 9 square metres of Arctic ice. Best advice is no more than 1x long haul flight every 7 years. Otherwise number of possessions matters only so much.
Thanks for your wonderful talk. We love you, too!
Really good points to keep people thinking. It is not necessary for each of us to have one of everything. I wish there were more thrift shops available for all kinds of items. I’m always looking but rarely finding the stuff i need in thrift stores so I end up buying from second hand online stores. Which then must be shipped.
My biggest obstacle to being a minimalist as I would like is one word: BOOKS! I’m so not there yet nor do I know if I want to be. 🤷♀️
Renting stuff takes a ton of time, and time is money. Obviously if you have a good network to share stuff that is awesome, but then you have to drive back and forth to pick up and then give back the item. Oftentimes, people misuse your stuff, which adds in a new element to sharing, especially when the person doesn't have much money or realize how much the damage actually costs to the owner.
Thank you Rob! :)
I like from birds the simplicity on that aswell. :) They represent to me the freedom and the essence. They live free, without posessions, without money, in abundance and free. :) And singing beautiful songs. :)
We are all one,
Namaste!
Your sharing idea sounds great for back in the 50s and 60s, but nowadays hardly anybody ever even knows their neighbors and yes I know that would be a good way to get to know them, but unless they’re real close friends I’m not so sure even I would want to have a blender that my neighbor comes over to borrow.
Great video! I have 3 bedroom house and 6 moths to purge. Only two piles,trash and sale. There is about 2 trash bags per day going out and no purchases but water and fresh produce. I am posting online every nick knack I have and made about $ 2,000 in two months. Hope to eventually scale down only to my Prius and travel.
I grew up in a lower-income family, and wasn't inclined to own *more* as a result, but was only a kid when I began to explore concepts of Voluntary Simplicity and frugality, and had inclinations toward a monastic life, despite not being of a religious bent. I find that I'm an "enthusiastic consumer," mostly when circumstances in my life were making me anxious, but I spent years living out of a backpack, and working outdoors, and those were the most beneficial years of my life.
Presently, I have responsibilities that keep me from living that way again, though I'd live off-grid in a small cabin, and so-on, at the drop of a hat, because I enjoyed it so much before.
We love you too, Rob.
I do get joy from some of the items that have accompanied me through my 6 decades of life, and I miss a few that I lost. I think it's ok to be fond of material objects, look after them and so on. It's not all about their use-value, for me. Bur having said that I am pretty minimalist. One question I ask when parting from things I use seldom but are quite specialised is "Would it be easy to find another one of these? and would it cost a lot to replace?"
Love this Rob! So glad I came across your channel through Epic Gardening!
Love how you always think of your Mom🤗👍
Great video, thank you! I am decluttering and not buying almost anything, but the stuff just never ends😥😂 I'm on my way, can't wait to feel light