Maybe you have already mentioned it - I would add that we can never being truly at ease / feeling content because we always want or need more to be “happy”
Well, one of the biggest is that your new item may have huge maintenance costs to keep the item. Cars, tractors, mowers, HOUSES, etc…I could keep going!
"The thrill of ownership, for example, is very short lived, soon to be replaced by the burden of ownership." - Excerpt from "Dealing with Anger and Frustration" by Marshall Vian Summers.
"The less money you have, the less control you have over your time." This rang so true for me 😿 when poor we really have very limited choices and have to take what we get.
Whenever I am about to buy something sooooo expensive I don't need, I just go back to this channel to be reminded of the things I actually need like freedom, time, and peace of mind... Then I don't feel too bad not buying myself that new shiny thing I badly want.
1. Pleasure turned into addiction 2. Robs you of life precious resource: Time. 3. Opinion vs truth 4. Deprivation of what matters seeking ease and convenience for the sacrifice of what matters other people. And the things that help you like a car 5. People are greedy 6. Live on autopilot buying things under peer pressure. 7. Wasting things is normal 8. Interactions are vital for mental health. 10. We are weird if we don’t buy things constantly.
I am voluntary homeless, I am settled at the moment and I have very few things but I feel that I have way too much. I do different jobs for different people and I have money, but nothing to spend it on. You can't go out and buy well-being with it, but you can buy things that will destroy well-being and get it on special offer too! Yet all I seek is common-unity (community), but there is none, only people who feel they are doing me a good turn, obviously we have nothing in common because they totally don't get. Then there are those who think I am totally weird, for obvious reasons... When you are hungry you don't need money, you require food. When you are tired you don't need a bed, you require sleep. When you are lonely you don't need things, we require eachother... So on & so forth!
Your comment is refreshing. You're not alone in the way you feel. I've been thinking about walking away from it all. How much money, things, accolades, etc will be enough? When do we become fulfilled? I think we've been conditioned and socialized all wrong. I'm working on getting out of the rat race.
Many people die at 25 and are not buried until they are 75. Very profound statement. I am not like other people either. Weird is good. The road least traveled is beautiful.
Very wise words, my friend! I was in that trap through my teens and 20's. Then I learned how to enjoy shopping while spending nothing. I followed the 30 day rule of purchasing impulse items and saved a fortune! I still love to visit small shops and markets but I taught myself to be fully satisfied with just the visual experience of seeing new and creative things (like visiting a museum). Then I return home empty handed but LOVING everything I've actually bought after waiting those 30 days! Thank you again...
I expect those wisdom words from an old generation who were deprived from everything not from a young adult like you. You are so wise and teach others to be thoughtful with money. If only young adults follow your steps. Thanks and keep shining
it must be made financially worthwhile for people to SHARE the jobs we would almost all agree we NEED to have done and work much less...no more doing anything FOR money but sharing the work we need and then it's highly unlikely we would have to work more than one day a week to have all we NEED...that's the only way the human race might survive.
Spot on! I only purchase to replace items. I don't purchase clothing unless it's needed (replace shoes, pants, etc). Granted, I still have debt I'm paying off but hope to be done with it in the next couple years, maybe sooner. However it is not my biggest expense. My biggest expenditures right now are rent, food and car insurance. Currently rent keeps going up, can't find anything less expensive (I live in a studio). I do my best to buy high quality food, make my lunches for work and only eat out for a treat. Car insurance went down as I switched companies but it is increasing again. My biggest concern is the cost of housing... I have no control over rent prices. It will be interesting to see what happens over the next year.
Austin, This channel has flipped the script for me. Thank you! Your message is so simple yet so liberating. Just 6 months ago, I owed just over $140K in debt. Most of it from gambling losses at the expense of my credit cards and consumerism. After a car accident settlement, I took all that money and paid off my overwhelming debt. Trust me, it hurt something fierce! When you say debt robs your future, that's exactly true! Think of what I could have done with all the money? Yet, since I no longer have any debt but my mortgage and a new car that I have already paid off half of, I live every day appreciating my circumstances and I no longer feel compelled to gamble either. Saving my income is now my hobby and your channel has impacted my life in such a huge way. It may not have been your intention but your thought process is very spiritual and I feel closer to the Lord. It forces you to seek a simpler life which is completely anti-culture! Keep the good work up and know that you have changed another person's life for the better!
There is an old saying: If you love your child, don't give him comfort. This is about "deprivation" education. Because without bitterness, one will not know sweetness.
Excellent! Absolutely, time is the most precious commodity in our lives. Thank you for linking the notion of how money affects time affects money. Your channel is so important as an antidote to the unchecked consumerism of our society that I wish it (your channel, your message) was a requirement in every high school finance class across the nation. If there are no finance classes in our high school curriculums, there should be! Another valuable video, Agustin!
Hello from the UK. Love your channel-that was the best one yet. Wish there could have been someone around like you years ago! You are one very wise man. 😊
I'm a physical movie collector and I enjoy watching films of the past and present. I really enjoy buying these movies but i will be honest I always buy on sale , especially on black Friday. I have a dedicated home theater that I love and have spent thousands of dollars in this space. I wouldn't have it any other way
Madison Avenue and Eduard Bernays started this mess. Advertising is geared to shutting down the critical thought processes. I got rid of my TV. I have a table top radio for classical music and one or two talk shows. When ads come on I pick them apart to their most basic level: FEAR. Then I reject them and move on. Fear shuts down critical thought. THINK.
You might be my favorite minimalism/mindful living channel. You focus and describe SO well the internal mechanisms of why too much is even a thing as well as what having less is about. So solid.
Great video as always!! 😊I became a minimalist, paid off my debt, and I only shop for things that it will be useful. Regarding Instacart, Uber Eats etc , I use as needed when I’m sick or super tired from a long work week after working 50-60 hours. Of course, I take advantage of coupons, free deliveries, deals, etc. It is all about common sense, valuing your time, health, peace of mind, and money.
I have been watching your videos for a while now. I suggest you do a video on being single and not having children. Would that help in your minimalist/frugal living?
I’m currently single and i must say almost all the people in the ‘Fire’ community who blog about investing are in a serious relationship. It really changes things as you can stay in, invite friends over whereas single folks generally want to go out and possibly meet someone new. That then has implications for spending. Austin could be cool to hear your thoughts on that.
Hey austin, your videos keeps getting better and happy to be one of the early viewers of your channel. Seeing it grow and improves is great. Keep up the great work on making changes on our lives!
Thanks! Once I do the final view and upload the videos, I never watch them again! I haven't watched a single one of my videos after I post them and am planning on re-watching them maybe a year after I monetized as I am curious to see how I've changed!! haha.
Another thought provoking video. I’ve been sitting here deliberating a couple of online purchases. Do I really need them, or am I being influenced by consumerism to buy them. Lol. Guess I’ll wait a few days and see how I feel then.
My in-laws are addicted to consumerism they'll bring little Dollar Store gifts for my kids almost every day and I can't stand it I wanted my kids to grow up valuing what they did have not having endless amounts of plastic junk toys laying around everywhere it's a hard situation because they watch our kids when we're at work. This is great content my friend have a blessed day
Careful, can you embrace that they are showing love in their way? This is what we grandparents do. I just caution raising conflict over this show of love. Sorry, but you ain’t gonna change them, so embrace the love and quietly dump, donate, grange sale, whatever. the plastic toys when they are not used anymore. You are not going to change the loving grandparent ways.
“Should’! I think its a sad life if you feel you ‘should’ all the time. I can imagine how frustrating that is to keep getting unwanted stuff in the house. Children will just be expecting the ‘stuff’ if its happening everyday so now stuck in a cycle and all its doing is trashing the planet. Pretty sure the children wont look back remembering the ‘stuff’ more the time they spent with their grandparents.
@@lornamackenzie2694 pretty sure they would remember the rift between the parents and grandparents if this issue is made into a big deal. The grandparents are not going to change. I’m pretty sure watching the kids everyday is waaaaaay more important than this to all. They watch the kids, I mean holy moly- be exceptionally grateful for thst extraordinary gift!
Your videos are getting better and better. This one really clarified and joined the dots of things that I have been noticing and thinking about for a while. I am of an age where I remember a time before supermarkets and where people walked to the shops or car-pooled with neighbours to run errands or take the kids to school. We shared resources and helped each other. Take away food was such a rare treat and there were few options available. Parents took kids to have one meal out in the holidays and cake was only for special occasions. My grandmother had a couple of dresses for best and her house clothes. These clothes were appreciated, mended and repaired. People no longer want hand-me-downs from parents as they need to have new and current and therefore people's hoards of belongings are thrown out as trash and the clean up causes the grieving children physical and emotional stress.
I love you Austin! Your mother must be very proud. I haven't watched one of your videos yet that didnt provide much needed food for my spirit. Content that matched thoughts in my head at the time and inspiration to continue my journey and relationship with money. Thank you!
I’m so glad I don’t follow what most people r doing out in the world. So nice to live simple and feel free as a bird. I never cared about having alot of money or material things. I am just always grateful for time because one day it will run out and all that stuff people want to keep buying will not mean a thing. Nothing is more valuable than time period! Austin … I love watching your videos because you talk the truth. You are amazing! You were meant to do this channel ❤️ it!
I have to watch this a hundred more times. I recently moved and I was appalled at the amount of objects I owned. Threw away a living room amount of stuff before moving into my new place and I still have more to donate/get rid of. 😢
As I’ve gotten older I have stopped wanting stuff like I use to. What I still like to do is take trips with my family to new places. I’ve always joked that I’ve turned into my Mom. My Mom came from a tiny village with no running water or electricity. She’s very simple and doesn’t need much.
Consumerism buzz for me is getting some good coffee creamer, frozen biscuits, and flavored sparkling water from Target on the way to work, for my office. That's it. Groceries.
Great video, keep them coming!! I for one am proud to be 'weird" and outside of the mindless consumeristic lifestyle, it's toxic and addictive. Nature, time, experience, connection - these all mean so much more than "stuff" plus knowing where true value lies and that worth isn't determined by materialism, is priceless!
Augustin, this was an EXCELLENT video!! So eye opening!! I am going to share this with my kids and students even. Thank you💕 for these very important insights!
You sparked something inside of me a year ago watching this video to realize I had a shopping addiction. I have now paid off all my debt live on a budget and am saving for retirement
so true ..I'm doing this advice!!! it's great!!! and I eat simple and healthy so I'm strong being frugal I love watching my accounts grow!!! it's my new hobby!!!! thanks again
Thank you for a very helpful video!! Fortunately, i'm extremely independent and not influenced by trends or anything "Just-to-fit-in". It has helped me financially and emotionally, as i'm 'secure' in both areas. On very rare occasions, i do feel a little deprived, especially since my parents were born in Ireland(the South) and i would love to go there and meet my relatives. But, i don't want to lose too much time from work to travel..and the cost is more than i spend taking short fun vacations locally. I'm very grateful that my home is in a great place in SoCalif., almost like a vacation year round. The secret, at least for me, is to have a sense of contentment..and true appreciation for everything. As my Dad always says.. "Let's celebrate Thanksgiving everyday, instead of one day each year". Thanks again for giving great advice to help people have better happier lives!!👍💯❤🌝
Yes your right convenience became the name of the game ! It had its good pints like washing machines etc but has gone too far! Intentionality is the big thing in all walks of life! When people are caught up in a job they don’t have time to think this out!
You say what I believe so eloquently! Seriously your channel is super well done that I legit take notes. Thank you for saying what we all need to remember. Money is time and relationships with one another is more important.
Or…. Life has beaten you down so much over decades and decades that human connection has been lost a little bit at a time, leading to isolation later in life. Sometimes it’s not a complete choice as we get older and older. I think , maybe, people seek peace, calm as the decades rack up. I don’t think all humans seek the same things as they pass through the seasons of life, and sometimes life pushes us in ways we may not seek, but, nonetheless end up there. That being said, reach out to your older neighbors and people in your life.
Austin, once again, another great video. However, one of today's consequenses of people spending money (usually on credit cards etc) is now driving inflation upwards - with a secondary effect of the rise in interest rates, hence the cost of borrowing just goes up and up.
This reminds me of what my brother inlaw who loves computer tech but always goes out of his way for the best price to performance/longevity for himself and when i want an upgrade. When mentioning to him how i just got a new huge external Western Digital gaming drive for my pc he was glad i got it at a good price but mentioned even that will get filled up quickly while giving a reason which went beyond computers telling me that humans collect stuff and it is what humans do they collect and horde stuff endlessly with everything no matter what it is. Thanks for another excellent and guiding video Austin Williams. Very fortifying and hopefully it will sink in completely with me over time. Well am sure it will hopefully sooner than later. I liked how you mentioned what we consume and showing the humongous garbage dump. In this digital age that visual physical aspect is missing during the purchasing process unlike just a decade or two in the past where dealing with shopping fun time was somewhat tamed by the fact we have to carry all this stuff home not to mention make space for things like music, movie, video games boxes etc unlike now where everything is being miniturized or totally digital. Technology is great but as you have mentioned many times we have to draw the line where enough is enough for our intentions. Have a great weekend and Happy Frugal Holidays! ☕
So many points here Austin! For those interested i stumbled across a story podcast ‘The richest man in Babylon’ this week on the ‘radical personal finance’ podcast. It’s not the topic of today but it is related. Cos for those of us able to, we want a simpler lifestyle with less consumerism, yet to also invest for later on.
The first thing is to understand that you are fighting a losing battle and that the deck is stacked against you. When you see that every dirty trick is used against you and that companies pay a significant amount of money to study psychology, you can began n to resist. Learn that you are getting upsold at every turn and develop a strategy and stick with it.
Did a whole paper on an old school documentary explaining the methods of Eric Bernays implementation of consumerism within modern day society for my university course
I am curious whether or not you have a girlfriend, Austin (it is not that I am personally interested lol) but how you could be a minimalist and wise with your finances in a relationship or dating which involve eating out, going to movies, etc. unless you find a girl who has the same mindset and I believe it is not very common Can you create a video on this topic?.
Thank you for your time spend making this video. I have left complicated comments in the past, but I appriciate your perspective on things. I find it hard to appriciate other people, because ofthen I find others difficult to deal with. I just want to do my thing, get some money and be done. I do not want to spend extra hours on something/someone when it can get done faster. I value my health more and quality time with my boyfriend and time for myself over classes/over work in the future. I live of student loans currently and I get a lot of critasim for it now. Espesially from people outside of EU, who are more used to work multable jobs or even more hours then the norm of 38 hours maximum in my country. Also the older generation, that already has studied and has a job, who for some reason do not get that things are super expensive for students now, you would need a full time job (minimum wage) to keep yourself afloat if you do not have student loans. So it is eighter study or work, not both. Young people who are living at home can work, but they end up working on the "days off" that are supossed to be for studying and doing school projects. This results in students not using those hours and having to do things for classes at night. Or people like myself have to take on extra (school)work. Wich I am not doing and I defenetly do not work on class assignments till late in the night. I sleep on time and I get up on time. After dinner is time to do the dishes, laundry,workout,shower,read a book, spending time with bf, decompress from the day. Back in 2016, when I stared people had more compassion for my situation and actually praized my choice. By going to college when I was 23, I felt like I had a second chanse at life. Then the pandemic hit and I graduated in 2021. I desided to start and try out for my BA Communication after that, because there where no jobs for me during the pandemic. I am 29 now and in my second year. I realize coming out of the pandamic and now having to deal with invlation. It just has been one thing after another. I have become more closed off, maybe even a bit rude and do not really like to be around other people. They make me feel like I need to spend so much energy, time and money on them. I do not want that. So yeah sometimes I chose my health over going to a class. I choose to spend as little time as possible on something, not to burn myself out for others. Not to "prove" myself. I want a life that I choose to live, not because that is how everyone else does it.
Thanks for the long comment!!! I think the pandemic has changed us all and made big social events uncomfortable for everyone. It was impossible to go through that unaffected. Health is important!
No.8 was an eye opener. I don’t buy much but most of it online. And I think I have to agree these option have an effect on community. Really got me thinking 👍🏻
Yes, in Ecuador I realized how many more genuine human interactions you have on a daily basis because they are not as "Advanced" as the US. When I got back it seemed a bit dystopian here, lol.
@@ElAgustin yes so true. I have done some traveling myself in “less developed countries” and got the same feeling. And on the other hand realized how fortunate I am in my life. When you realize how amazing it is to be able to drink water from the tap whenever you want. s’
Delivery apps are unnecessary to me. My hot take on them is that they make people more lazy. I always look for deals before I buy something, especially if I have a need for it.
Inspiring video Austin. ☺️ You’re helping me be more aware of what really matters. I think McDonald’s gave the salads a good try for a while, but discontinued them a couple years ago. Not enough demand, but my sister used to like their salads. 🤷♀️🤣 Have a nice weekend !
I now know the error of my ways, I do not want to own anything except for what I can fit into two suitcases in the backpack! The only exception to the rule would be owning a home or condo…
Maby is not normal 😁 but i watch every one of your videos 2 or 3 times in a row can't get enough of it 😁 it is a life style and love to be on this Journey. Your videos is fuel to a mindset. Go on 🙏👏
62 VÍDEOS!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!! I think that the old saying ' Enough is as good as a feast " could be applied here. We are used to so much confort when we go shopping that it takes a por of self discipline to avoid buying what you don't need. When I need to buy sth the salesgirl keeps asking Only one pair of sandals??? Why don't you buy two pairs??? It is a daily battle.
@@ElAgustin I mean it !!!!! Wish we could have coffee ☕,,,,, you could really straighten me out !! I'm doin a lot better,,,, thanks to you.... However,,, being female is more expensive than being a man ..... Cosmetics,,,,, etc,,, I like looking as pretty as possible !! No senseless purchases tho ...... When u said. " There's no superman coming " you're RIGHT !!! Cruel world !!! I hope to meet you !!!!! You are a wonderful , brilliant,,, humorous man !!!!! Thank You !! 💰 Jacqueline...... P S. I texted my son your videos, he's in California ( EXPENSIVE $$$ ) he shares the same opinion of you that I do !!!!! Keep In Touch. PLEASE. 😃
This video will certainly be very useful for my English Communication courses at the University. Thank you for creating such high quality content. Greetings from Costa Rica. PURA VIDA!
Awesome! It always makes me laugh thinking of a class watching my videos! When you're making them in your house, it's hard to comprehend that people are actually watching them!
Yes, what you are saying is true. So why do most people think diffrently? First av all I think it's because most people don't care. They compere themselves with their neigbours. Buying things are like a competition and have a narcisstic value. It makes them feel important instead of impotent. They feel there things say something about themselves, mirroring how they want to be seen. It's more of a identity issue, in my opinion. And some people consume because they are depressed and bored. Like distraction, or untertainment instead of creatitvity and production.
Totally agree that going without rubbish removal services really gives awareness of consumption. I have lived in places where you have to deal with your own rubbish and believe me you really think twice about buying anything non-biodegradable when you know you have to either burn or bury anything that is no longer usable. But I think you are missing the point with consumption - humans are deeply hierarchical and anything that gives us status in the eyes of our community (IRL or online) makes us feel good and makes us feel validated. That's the real reason we own more than we need. Your trip to South America says, I have leisure, I have money, I have freedom and power to all of us out here watching you. (Also, your flat says, I have money and good taste. Your acceptance of being 'a bit weird' says, I am well-educated enough to not need to bow down to convention as I have my own alternative means of validation. Your appearance says, I benefit from excellent healthcare and nutrition, all of which costs money. And I am a little bit suspicious you have spent money on getting those perfect white teeth!)
We are all consumers whether we want to admit it or not, some of us consume material goods and some of us consume experiences (travel/entertainment). We need consumables to make the economy and world work; we can't all be farmers growing just enough food to feed ourselves. Who would make the tools? The wood for buildings? The glass for windows? If you want to live a minimalistic life and spend your money on travel and experiences that works for you; if someone else wants to spend there money on material goods that works for them. When you travel you are consuming jet fuel, how many gallons of water does it take to refine 1 gallon of jet fuel? I doubt your drinking from streams and foraging for food so your consuming prepared food and drink containers, how many gallons of water does that take? Where are the containers and wrappers for those going? Part of the reason we have so much trash in landfills in the United States is yes, consumerism but unlike 3rd world countries we don't just throw our trash out on the ground wherever we like or burn it; we collect it and put it all in one place. The computer/phone/camera you are using to the make these videos will more than likely be junk in the next 3-5 years and you will replace them with new ones that take raw earth materials that must be mined, diesel to transport, as well as water and other resources. Not trying to be mean, you could use another point of view. TH-cam sent me here I didn't find this on my own. I'm all for consuming less and doing my part, but I have no problem pointing out hypocrisy either. You are a consumer and resource user too, your consumption just may not be able to be seen inside your home because once you have consumed it (experiences/travel) it's gone.
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What's another consequence of unintentional consumerism?
Maybe you have already mentioned it - I would add that we can never being truly at ease / feeling content because we always want or need more to be “happy”
Less money spend on things you do actually want in your life. Without feeling quilty you actually spend the money on yourself.
Well, one of the biggest is that your new item may have huge maintenance costs to keep the item. Cars, tractors, mowers, HOUSES, etc…I could keep going!
Buy things that you don’t need but they are nice to have.
If you have a problem giving away a thing you own, the thing owns you.
"The thrill of ownership, for example, is very short lived, soon to be replaced by the burden of ownership." - Excerpt from "Dealing with Anger and Frustration" by Marshall Vian Summers.
Whatever this so special man says resonates deep inside me.
Thanks!
Yes, in every purchase!
I love owning a home though. Equity over renting a any day.
I am 64 years old, and wish I knew about this my adult/working life. I would have saved so much money. I knew I was addicted to shopping.
"The less money you have, the less control you have over your time." This rang so true for me 😿 when poor we really have very limited choices and have to take what we get.
Whenever I am about to buy something sooooo expensive I don't need, I just go back to this channel to be reminded of the things I actually need like freedom, time, and peace of mind... Then I don't feel too bad not buying myself that new shiny thing I badly want.
Awesome! I'm glad!
1. Pleasure turned into addiction
2. Robs you of life precious resource: Time.
3. Opinion vs truth
4. Deprivation of what matters seeking ease and convenience for the sacrifice of what matters other people. And the things that help you like a car
5. People are greedy
6. Live on autopilot buying things under peer pressure.
7. Wasting things is normal
8. Interactions are vital for mental health.
10. We are weird if we don’t buy things constantly.
I am voluntary homeless, I am settled at the moment and I have very few things but I feel that I have way too much. I do different jobs for different people and I have money, but nothing to spend it on. You can't go out and buy well-being with it, but you can buy things that will destroy well-being and get it on special offer too! Yet all I seek is common-unity (community), but there is none, only people who feel they are doing me a good turn, obviously we have nothing in common because they totally don't get. Then there are those who think I am totally weird, for obvious reasons...
When you are hungry you don't need money, you require food.
When you are tired you don't need a bed, you require sleep.
When you are lonely you don't need things, we require eachother... So on & so forth!
Your comment is refreshing. You're not alone in the way you feel. I've been thinking about walking away from it all. How much money, things, accolades, etc will be enough? When do we become fulfilled? I think we've been conditioned and socialized all wrong. I'm working on getting out of the rat race.
Wow swore I could have wrote this myself ! I feel 100% exactly this 🙌🙌🙌😭😭😭😭😭
Many people die at 25 and are not buried until they are 75. Very profound statement. I am not like other people either. Weird is good. The road least traveled is beautiful.
Very wise words, my friend!
I was in that trap through my teens and 20's. Then I learned how to enjoy shopping while spending nothing. I followed the 30 day rule of purchasing impulse items and saved a fortune! I still love to visit small shops and markets but I taught myself to be fully satisfied with just the visual experience of seeing new and creative things (like visiting a museum). Then I return home empty handed but LOVING everything I've actually bought after waiting those 30 days!
Thank you again...
Thanks, Rick!
I expect those wisdom words from an old generation who were deprived from everything not from a young adult like you. You are so wise and teach others to be thoughtful with money. If only young adults follow your steps. Thanks and keep shining
Thanks!
it must be made financially worthwhile for people to SHARE the jobs we would almost all agree we NEED to have done and work much less...no more doing anything FOR money but sharing the work we need and then it's highly unlikely we would have to work more than one day a week to have all we NEED...that's the only way the human race might survive.
Spot on! I only purchase to replace items. I don't purchase clothing unless it's needed (replace shoes, pants, etc). Granted, I still have debt I'm paying off but hope to be done with it in the next couple years, maybe sooner. However it is not my biggest expense.
My biggest expenditures right now are rent, food and car insurance.
Currently rent keeps going up, can't find anything less expensive (I live in a studio).
I do my best to buy high quality food, make my lunches for work and only eat out for a treat.
Car insurance went down as I switched companies but it is increasing again.
My biggest concern is the cost of housing... I have no control over rent prices. It will be interesting to see what happens over the next year.
Yes, rent can be unpredictable and car insurance!
@@LA-wv7gf Where are you located? I'm still waiting for rents to drop in Vegas.
Austin,
This channel has flipped the script for me. Thank you! Your message is so simple yet so liberating.
Just 6 months ago, I owed just over $140K in debt. Most of it from gambling losses at the expense of my credit cards and consumerism. After a car accident settlement, I took all that money and paid off my overwhelming debt. Trust me, it hurt something fierce! When you say debt robs your future, that's exactly true! Think of what I could have done with all the money?
Yet, since I no longer have any debt but my mortgage and a new car that I have already paid off half of, I live every day appreciating my circumstances and I no longer feel compelled to gamble either.
Saving my income is now my hobby and your channel has impacted my life in such a huge way. It may not have been your intention but your thought process is very spiritual and I feel closer to the Lord. It forces you to seek a simpler life which is completely anti-culture!
Keep the good work up and know that you have changed another person's life for the better!
There is an old saying: If you love your child, don't give him comfort. This is about "deprivation" education. Because without bitterness, one will not know sweetness.
Excellent! Absolutely, time is the most precious commodity in our lives. Thank you for linking the notion of how money affects time affects money. Your channel is so important as an antidote to the unchecked consumerism of our society that I wish it (your channel, your message) was a requirement in every high school finance class across the nation. If there are no finance classes in our high school curriculums, there should be! Another valuable video, Agustin!
Thanks!!
The hours of our lives are priceless, enjoy
time and health and money DOES buy health in so many ways from preemptive treatments to actual treatments to cosmetic enhancements.
Hello from the UK. Love your channel-that was the best one yet. Wish there could have been someone around like you years ago! You are one very wise man. 😊
Thanks!!
I'm a physical movie collector and I enjoy watching films of the past and present. I really enjoy buying these movies but i will be honest I always buy on sale , especially on black Friday. I have a dedicated home theater that I love and have spent thousands of dollars in this space. I wouldn't have it any other way
Very wise words Austin! You keep me on the right track 😊
I'm glad!
Madison Avenue and Eduard Bernays started this mess. Advertising is geared to shutting down the critical thought processes.
I got rid of my TV. I have a table top radio for classical music and one or two talk shows. When ads come on I pick them apart to their most basic level: FEAR. Then I reject them and move on. Fear shuts down critical thought.
THINK.
You might be my favorite minimalism/mindful living channel. You focus and describe SO well the internal mechanisms of why too much is even a thing as well as what having less is about. So solid.
Great video as always!! 😊I became a minimalist, paid off my debt, and I only shop for things that it will be useful. Regarding Instacart, Uber Eats etc , I use as needed when I’m sick or super tired from a long work week after working 50-60 hours. Of course, I take advantage of coupons, free deliveries, deals, etc. It is all about common sense, valuing your time, health, peace of mind, and money.
How do you feel about working more than 40 hours per week?
I have been watching your videos for a while now. I suggest you do a video on being single and not having children. Would that help in your minimalist/frugal living?
I’m currently single and i must say almost all the people in the ‘Fire’ community who blog about investing are in a serious relationship. It really changes things as you can stay in, invite friends over whereas single folks generally want to go out and possibly meet someone new. That then has implications for spending. Austin could be cool to hear your thoughts on that.
Hey austin, your videos keeps getting better and happy to be one of the early viewers of your channel. Seeing it grow and improves is great. Keep up the great work on making changes on our lives!
Thanks! Once I do the final view and upload the videos, I never watch them again! I haven't watched a single one of my videos after I post them and am planning on re-watching them maybe a year after I monetized as I am curious to see how I've changed!! haha.
Consumerism is indeed an illness, an addiction. I treasure your viewpoints.
Another thought provoking video. I’ve been sitting here deliberating a couple of online purchases. Do I really need them, or am I being influenced by consumerism to buy them. Lol. Guess I’ll wait a few days and see how I feel then.
Despite how companies try to get you to panic, there are always more than, "Just two in stock!" haha
My in-laws are addicted to consumerism they'll bring little Dollar Store gifts for my kids almost every day and I can't stand it I wanted my kids to grow up valuing what they did have not having endless amounts of plastic junk toys laying around everywhere it's a hard situation because they watch our kids when we're at work. This is great content my friend have a blessed day
Careful, can you embrace that they are showing love in their way? This is what we grandparents do. I just caution raising conflict over this show of love. Sorry, but you ain’t gonna change them, so embrace the love and quietly dump, donate, grange sale, whatever.
the plastic toys when they are not used anymore. You are not going to change the loving grandparent ways.
You should be thankful that your in laws love your kids, so many people have no family help or love for their kids from their familes.
“Should’! I think its a sad life if you feel you ‘should’ all the time. I can imagine how frustrating that is to keep getting unwanted stuff in the house. Children will just be expecting the ‘stuff’ if its happening everyday so now stuck in a cycle and all its doing is trashing the planet. Pretty sure the children wont look back remembering the ‘stuff’ more the time they spent with their grandparents.
@@lornamackenzie2694 pretty sure they would remember the rift between the parents and grandparents if this issue is made into a big deal. The grandparents are not going to change. I’m pretty sure watching the kids everyday is waaaaaay more important than this to all. They watch the kids, I mean holy moly- be exceptionally grateful for thst extraordinary gift!
@@CAGChannel1 iam great full and we do pay them but a lot less than day care
Your videos are getting better and better. This one really clarified and joined the dots of things that I have been noticing and thinking about for a while. I am of an age where I remember a time before supermarkets and where people walked to the shops or car-pooled with neighbours to run errands or take the kids to school. We shared resources and helped each other. Take away food was such a rare treat and there were few options available. Parents took kids to have one meal out in the holidays and cake was only for special occasions. My grandmother had a couple of dresses for best and her house clothes. These clothes were appreciated, mended and repaired. People no longer want hand-me-downs from parents as they need to have new and current and therefore people's hoards of belongings are thrown out as trash and the clean up causes the grieving children physical and emotional stress.
I love you Austin! Your mother must be very proud. I haven't watched one of your videos yet that didnt provide much needed food for my spirit. Content that matched thoughts in my head at the time and inspiration to continue my journey and relationship with money. Thank you!
I’m so glad I don’t follow what most people r doing out in the world. So nice to live simple and feel free as a bird. I never cared about having alot of money or material things. I am just always grateful for time because one day it will run out and all that stuff people want to keep buying will not mean a thing. Nothing is more valuable than time period! Austin … I love watching your videos because you talk the truth. You are amazing! You were meant to do this channel ❤️ it!
Thanks Robin!
I have to watch this a hundred more times. I recently moved and I was appalled at the amount of objects I owned. Threw away a living room amount of stuff before moving into my new place and I still have more to donate/get rid of. 😢
As I’ve gotten older I have stopped wanting stuff like I use to. What I still like to do is take trips with my family to new places. I’ve always joked that I’ve turned into my Mom. My Mom came from a tiny village with no running water or electricity. She’s very simple and doesn’t need much.
Consumerism buzz for me is getting some good coffee creamer, frozen biscuits, and flavored sparkling water from Target on the way to work, for my office. That's it. Groceries.
so much wisdom from a young mind.....wish i have heard this 30 years ago....[
Great video, keep them coming!! I for one am proud to be 'weird" and outside of the mindless consumeristic lifestyle, it's toxic and addictive. Nature, time, experience, connection - these all mean so much more than "stuff" plus knowing where true value lies and that worth isn't determined by materialism, is priceless!
Augustin, this was an EXCELLENT video!! So eye opening!! I am going to share this with my kids and students even. Thank you💕 for these very important insights!
Thanks!
You sparked something inside of me a year ago watching this video to realize I had a shopping addiction. I have now paid off all my debt live on a budget and am saving for retirement
Stressed, tired people crave sweet, fatty and salty foods. So naturally the fast food industry thrives on people's cravings.
so true ..I'm doing this advice!!! it's great!!! and I eat simple and healthy so I'm strong being frugal I love watching my accounts grow!!! it's my new hobby!!!! thanks again
Kudos Augustin. Keep extracting the marrow and discarding the bs.I wish I had this mentality when I was your age!
Thank you for a very helpful video!! Fortunately, i'm extremely independent and not influenced by trends or anything "Just-to-fit-in". It has helped me financially and emotionally, as i'm 'secure' in both areas. On very rare occasions, i do feel a little deprived, especially since my parents were born in Ireland(the South) and i would love to go there and meet my relatives. But, i don't want to lose too much time from work to travel..and the cost is more than i spend taking short fun vacations locally. I'm very grateful that my home is in a great place in SoCalif., almost like a vacation year round. The secret, at least for me, is to have a sense of contentment..and true appreciation for everything. As my Dad always says.. "Let's celebrate Thanksgiving everyday, instead of one day each year". Thanks again for giving great advice to help people have better happier lives!!👍💯❤🌝
Exactly!
Yes your right convenience became the name of the game ! It had its good pints like washing machines etc but has gone too far! Intentionality is the big thing in all walks of life! When people are caught up in a job they don’t have time to think this out!
I guess doing this full time I have an abundance of time to think about all this stuff, haha!
You say what I believe so eloquently! Seriously your channel is super well done that I legit take notes. Thank you for saying what we all need to remember. Money is time and relationships with one another is more important.
Right on!! Thanks for your kind words!
Or…. Life has beaten you down so much over decades and decades that human connection has been lost a little bit at a time, leading to isolation later in life. Sometimes it’s not a complete choice as we get older and older. I think , maybe, people seek peace, calm as the decades rack up. I don’t think all humans seek the same things as they pass through the seasons of life, and sometimes life pushes us in ways we may not seek, but, nonetheless end up there.
That being said, reach out to your older neighbors and people in your life.
Austin, once again, another great video. However, one of today's consequenses of people spending money (usually on credit cards etc) is now driving inflation upwards - with a secondary effect of the rise in interest rates, hence the cost of borrowing just goes up and up.
This reminds me of what my brother inlaw who loves computer tech but always goes out of his way for the best price to performance/longevity for himself and when i want an upgrade. When mentioning to him how i just got a new huge external Western Digital gaming drive for my pc he was glad i got it at a good price but mentioned even that will get filled up quickly while giving a reason which went beyond computers telling me that humans collect stuff and it is what humans do they collect and horde stuff endlessly with everything no matter what it is.
Thanks for another excellent and guiding video Austin Williams. Very fortifying and hopefully it will sink in completely with me over time. Well am sure it will hopefully sooner than later. I liked how you mentioned what we consume and showing the humongous garbage dump. In this digital age that visual physical aspect is missing during the purchasing process unlike just a decade or two in the past where dealing with shopping fun time was somewhat tamed by the fact we have to carry all this stuff home not to mention make space for things like music, movie, video games boxes etc unlike now where everything is being miniturized or totally digital. Technology is great but as you have mentioned many times we have to draw the line where enough is enough for our intentions.
Have a great weekend and Happy Frugal Holidays! ☕
There has to be a balance. There are many benefits of technology, but naturally many cons.
Hello St. Agustin. Last summer I saved $2,000 with the intent of wasting it. Frivolous spending is okay so long as it's contained within a box.
Knowledge is power. Thank you Austin
Very well done video! They are getting increasingly more deep and meaningful. I look forward to them.
When you are doing this full time, all you do is think! haha.
@@ElAgustin Deep Thoughts by Jack Handey. From Saturday Night Live.
Hands down life changing channel 😮 fantastic and keep challenging people to think 🤔 different !!!!
Thanks! Glad you're finding value!
So many points here Austin! For those interested i stumbled across a story podcast ‘The richest man in Babylon’ this week on the ‘radical personal finance’ podcast. It’s not the topic of today but it is related. Cos for those of us able to, we want a simpler lifestyle with less consumerism, yet to also invest for later on.
I actually just started reading that book yesterday!
I have been following your suggestions for 2 months…and I am happier. 😊
The first thing is to understand that you are fighting a losing battle and that the deck is stacked against you. When you see that every dirty trick is used against you and that companies pay a significant amount of money to study psychology, you can began n to resist. Learn that you are getting upsold at every turn and develop a strategy and stick with it.
Did a whole paper on an old school documentary explaining the methods of Eric Bernays implementation of consumerism within modern day society for my university course
I am curious whether or not you have a girlfriend, Austin (it is not that I am personally interested lol) but how you could be a minimalist and wise with your finances in a relationship or dating which involve eating out, going to movies, etc. unless you find a girl who has the same mindset and I believe it is not very common Can you create a video on this topic?.
Thank you for your time spend making this video. I have left complicated comments in the past, but I appriciate your perspective on things.
I find it hard to appriciate other people, because ofthen I find others difficult to deal with. I just want to do my thing, get some money and be done. I do not want to spend extra hours on something/someone when it can get done faster. I value my health more and quality time with my boyfriend and time for myself over classes/over work in the future.
I live of student loans currently and I get a lot of critasim for it now. Espesially from people outside of EU, who are more used to work multable jobs or even more hours then the norm of 38 hours maximum in my country. Also the older generation, that already has studied and has a job, who for some reason do not get that things are super expensive for students now, you would need a full time job (minimum wage) to keep yourself afloat if you do not have student loans. So it is eighter study or work, not both. Young people who are living at home can work, but they end up working on the "days off" that are supossed to be for studying and doing school projects. This results in students not using those hours and having to do things for classes at night. Or people like myself have to take on extra (school)work. Wich I am not doing and I defenetly do not work on class assignments till late in the night. I sleep on time and I get up on time. After dinner is time to do the dishes, laundry,workout,shower,read a book, spending time with bf, decompress from the day.
Back in 2016, when I stared people had more compassion for my situation and actually praized my choice. By going to college when I was 23, I felt like I had a second chanse at life. Then the pandemic hit and I graduated in 2021. I desided to start and try out for my BA Communication after that, because there where no jobs for me during the pandemic. I am 29 now and in my second year.
I realize coming out of the pandamic and now having to deal with invlation. It just has been one thing after another. I have become more closed off, maybe even a bit rude and do not really like to be around other people. They make me feel like I need to spend so much energy, time and money on them. I do not want that.
So yeah sometimes I chose my health over going to a class. I choose to spend as little time as possible on something, not to burn myself out for others. Not to "prove" myself. I want a life that I choose to live, not because that is how everyone else does it.
Thanks for the long comment!!! I think the pandemic has changed us all and made big social events uncomfortable for everyone. It was impossible to go through that unaffected. Health is important!
No.8 was an eye opener. I don’t buy much but most of it online. And I think I have to agree these option have an effect on community. Really got me thinking 👍🏻
Yes, in Ecuador I realized how many more genuine human interactions you have on a daily basis because they are not as "Advanced" as the US. When I got back it seemed a bit dystopian here, lol.
@@ElAgustin yes so true. I have done some traveling myself in “less developed countries” and got the same feeling. And on the other hand realized how fortunate I am in my life. When you realize how amazing it is to be able to drink water from the tap whenever you want.
s’
We take two weeks to fill a small trash bags. The same with recycling. I actually do not enjoy shopping. As a woman, I often wonder why I'm so weird.
Delivery apps are unnecessary to me. My hot take on them is that they make people more lazy. I always look for deals before I buy something, especially if I have a need for it.
Spot on!! I watched a couple times to help me articulate this idea, which I hold closely, to friends and fam. Cheers.
Inspiring video Austin. ☺️ You’re helping me be more aware of what really matters. I think McDonald’s gave the salads a good try for a while, but discontinued them a couple years ago. Not enough demand, but my sister used to like their salads. 🤷♀️🤣 Have a nice weekend !
Thanks!
I now know the error of my ways, I do not want to own anything except for what I can fit into two suitcases in the backpack! The only exception to the rule would be owning a home or condo…
Maby is not normal 😁 but i watch every one of your videos 2 or 3 times in a row can't get enough of it 😁 it is a life style and love to be on this Journey. Your videos is fuel to a mindset. Go on 🙏👏
Awesome! I'm glad my videos are providing you value! Ecuador inspired me a lot and I've been trying to do 2 a week now!
62 VÍDEOS!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!
I think that the old saying ' Enough is as good as a feast " could be applied here. We are used to so much confort when we go shopping that it takes a por of self discipline to avoid buying what you don't need. When I need to buy sth the salesgirl keeps asking Only one pair of sandals??? Why don't you buy two pairs??? It is a daily battle.
Thank u for another great video. I agree with everything you said😀.
One of your best videos yet, thank you
Thanks for watching!
Your the smartest guy on You tube !!!
Wow! Thanks! I just talk about basic things!
@@ElAgustin I mean it !!!!! Wish we could have coffee ☕,,,,, you could really straighten me out !! I'm doin a lot better,,,, thanks to you.... However,,, being female is more expensive than being a man ..... Cosmetics,,,,, etc,,, I like looking as pretty as possible !! No senseless purchases tho ...... When u said. " There's no superman coming " you're RIGHT !!! Cruel world !!! I hope to meet you !!!!! You are a wonderful , brilliant,,, humorous man !!!!! Thank You !! 💰 Jacqueline...... P S. I texted my son your videos, he's in California ( EXPENSIVE $$$ ) he shares the same opinion of you that I do !!!!! Keep In Touch. PLEASE. 😃
Agustín acabo de encontrar tu canal. Excelente contenido! Estoy seguro de que tu canal crecerá muchísimo, felicidades.
This video will certainly be very useful for my English Communication courses at the University. Thank you for creating such high quality content. Greetings from Costa Rica. PURA VIDA!
Awesome! It always makes me laugh thinking of a class watching my videos! When you're making them in your house, it's hard to comprehend that people are actually watching them!
@@ElAgustin 😄
Very good sharing of consequences of things we do in our life.
Hi Austin
When I started to watch your videos you were I think 20k now you are 90 wow I still watch all your videos incl the old ones
Yes, what you are saying is true. So why do most people think diffrently?
First av all I think it's because most people don't care. They compere themselves with their neigbours. Buying things are like a competition and have a narcisstic value. It makes them feel important instead of impotent. They feel there things say something about themselves, mirroring how they want to be seen. It's more of a identity issue, in my opinion.
And some people consume because they are depressed and bored. Like distraction, or untertainment instead of creatitvity and production.
This is why I do not buy anything other than good food, and travel staying in hostels by the way
Definitivamente eres más sabio por haber tenido la experiencia de vivir en otros países 👏👏👏
Gracias mijita!
Excellent Presentation Austin..." CUDOS "
Thanks for your being different! I love your content
Thanks, Gerri!
Great Video. When are you going to do a video on your Income and what you do? Besides TH-cam
Totally agree that going without rubbish removal services really gives awareness of consumption. I have lived in places where you have to deal with your own rubbish and believe me you really think twice about buying anything non-biodegradable when you know you have to either burn or bury anything that is no longer usable. But I think you are missing the point with consumption - humans are deeply hierarchical and anything that gives us status in the eyes of our community (IRL or online) makes us feel good and makes us feel validated. That's the real reason we own more than we need. Your trip to South America says, I have leisure, I have money, I have freedom and power to all of us out here watching you. (Also, your flat says, I have money and good taste. Your acceptance of being 'a bit weird' says, I am well-educated enough to not need to bow down to convention as I have my own alternative means of validation. Your appearance says, I benefit from excellent healthcare and nutrition, all of which costs money. And I am a little bit suspicious you have spent money on getting those perfect white teeth!)
Amigo: your videos are wonderful, filled with great information! 👍
Gracias! I appreciate it!
Aloha Austin. Good stuff amigo. Gracias. 👍
This sir, is a very good video. Keep it up
Wonderful video, thank you , Good Night 💤😴
I agree with consumerism being a big problem. What about pay disparities and the shrinking middle class?
Needs and wants.. we need, to watch your videos! We want, to enjoy life!
haha, thanks!
Nice analysis Austin.
Thanks!
First video I’ve seen of yours. Great video!!! I’m subscribing
Awesome, I'm glad! Welcome to the channel of El Agustin!
I Made a decision: I don‘t want to be Part of these Problems any more❤ Is unintentional consumerism not just Violence in the World ?
@10:55 Excellent point
Austin…. What your saying is true… but most people think differently 😁 keep up the great content mate.
Much love from England 👍
Thanks, Lee!
Another excellent video🌞
This is great video!🎉
Stuff comes and goes
Money is forever
We are all consumers whether we want to admit it or not, some of us consume material goods and some of us consume experiences (travel/entertainment). We need consumables to make the economy and world work; we can't all be farmers growing just enough food to feed ourselves. Who would make the tools? The wood for buildings? The glass for windows? If you want to live a minimalistic life and spend your money on travel and experiences that works for you; if someone else wants to spend there money on material goods that works for them. When you travel you are consuming jet fuel, how many gallons of water does it take to refine 1 gallon of jet fuel? I doubt your drinking from streams and foraging for food so your consuming prepared food and drink containers, how many gallons of water does that take? Where are the containers and wrappers for those going? Part of the reason we have so much trash in landfills in the United States is yes, consumerism but unlike 3rd world countries we don't just throw our trash out on the ground wherever we like or burn it; we collect it and put it all in one place. The computer/phone/camera you are using to the make these videos will more than likely be junk in the next 3-5 years and you will replace them with new ones that take raw earth materials that must be mined, diesel to transport, as well as water and other resources. Not trying to be mean, you could use another point of view. TH-cam sent me here I didn't find this on my own. I'm all for consuming less and doing my part, but I have no problem pointing out hypocrisy either. You are a consumer and resource user too, your consumption just may not be able to be seen inside your home because once you have consumed it (experiences/travel) it's gone.
Loved the video. I'm a little bit weird too....
We're all weird. Just gotta embrace it!
Why do I never meet people who think like this in real life? 🥺 I feel like such a weirdo or a "hippie" when I talk about things like this...
Great reflexión 👍
it opens my mind ❤
I Love your videos!❤
Well Said ❤
"Big things have small beginnings" Alien 👽
What or how does one get out of debt when they already made a mistake and over consumed