I didn’t shop for a year and at the end of it, I was happier than I have ever been. Consumerism did indeed make me miserable. We will not survive on this planet if we continue with rampant consumerism. Another thoughtful and inspiring video! Thanks so much ❤❤❤
I make $40k/year. I have a family of 4. My wife stays home with the kids. We have no debt. We rent from an older woman at $400/month plus utilities. We are so frugal, but we have all that we need. 1 car, an older camry. $50k cash in the bank and growing. Once we reach $100k, we will buy a home. We are in a very cozy situation, but it was planned. Meanwhile, her uncle and aunt make over $160k/year between the both of them and struggle paying their utility bills and car notes. They owe back taxes on their home and the bank almost foreclosed twice. They are very miserable people and lash out at their friends and family. There's infidelity issues with her aunt too and everyone knows about it lol. Needless to say, we stopped associating with them because of the toxicity.
FOMO drives most of the consumerism, imo. FOMO makes us chase desires that weren't even ours at the first place. A lot of us are so into things that we never know what WE actually want.
Hmmm...depends on your age. I have a few things I am "decluttering". But, I can assure you as you get older your regret will grow expotentially ...you finally realise you really never ever need all that much "stuff".
I’m definitely trying to cut back…learned to really appreciate money after working/earning a high income for over 15 years & then being laid off for 6 months….from that experienced implemented great cost cutting changes; I learned to cut my own hair, mow my own lawn, paid off my cars/credit cards, cut the cable cord, & have never felt better! I’ve been back working for about 3 years (great income too) but I keep the same low spending mentality!
I now buy more mindfully, I still buy, but much much less. Chasing the high is very addictive. I am tired of the cycle of buying and purging. Just saving my money is simpler.
As an older gal (much older lol) I can assure you I see what you are saying because my youth was so less possessed by consumerism. I am glad to see you talk about this as a young person.
I feel like I beat consumerism. Why? The only stores I walk into now is grocery and pharmacy. I refuse to click on Amazon. Only if I need a specific item. I challenge other viewers of this channel to only shop for groceries only for a month.
The entire point of this system is make sure you NEVER get close to figuring out enough. They only want you to think that the newer, shinier "thing" is the ONE that will suddenly make you rich, hot, smart, happy, etc. ALL of this comes down to critical thinking and teaching and encouraging others to think critically. The questions that you put on screen in your videos allow for that kind of necessary reflections. 🙌 Some people enjoy being a part of the system just as it now WITH the full awareness of Big Corp manipulation, etc. Keep the videos coming Austin. Your approach is simplistic, authentic, genuine and hilarious.
I have bad ADHD and you caught my attention for a whole video. That’s pretty impressive. I’m paying off my debt and getting off this stupid hamster wheel. I’m 50 and been on it a long time. I’m tired, fed up and miserable. I will live in my car if I have to to get out from under this financial crap heap. Great points you make here.
I'm 18 years old, and falling into consumerism culture is extremely easy. I'm Gen-Z so I practically grew up with the internet and everywhere I go, everything I see, I'm being marketed or persuaded to buy or do something. I'm trying my best to control myself to not buy things on an impulse just because it seems cool or just because it seems like everyone else has it. Before I purchase anything, I wait a couple weeks- months even- to see if I genuinely want it. I list out the pros and cons of purchasing the product, and I ask myself why I feel like I need something. If I have a valid reason to buy something, then I will. For instance, I enjoy fashion and styling myself but I don't buy trendy clothes. My wardrobe has been carefully curated to be "timeless." The colors are mostly neutrals like brown, gray, white or black. I have a couple of jeans, shirts, and layering pieces that can be put together in a multitude of different combinations so I have endless amounts of outfits. I keep my jewelry simple, as with my makeup. I maybe only have one pair of earrings, two rings and one necklace. My makeup drawer only has 5 items in it. The thing I struggle with the most are decorative pieces. I'm a huge lover of accessories, especially when it comes to PCs. When I see mechanical keyboards with cute keycaps, or a cute set of pens, I want to buy instantly. It's really difficult for me, but I manage to not purchase them. I tell myself that I already have a keyboard and that I already have pens, so what's the use in buying more? I really really want these cute items though, which feels like a huge issue. For some reason staying away from consumerist tendencies makes me feel like I'm missing out. I don't know what it is exactly, but it's a feeling that confuses me because I know I'm doing the right thing. I hate it so much. Sometimes I feel like an old person. My parents are huge consumerists, and they always wonder why I barely buy things. They keep trying to convince me to spend money while I can because I'm young and I don't have infinite time, so I should use my money while I can. I'm glad for content like yours because I'm able to see into other people's perspectives on finance. I'm still trying to find the right finance mindset for me, but it is really hard when I don't have any good mentors in real life.
GGukie --- Wow ... What an enlightened and impressive comment; very, very impressive indeed - especially since you are only 18 years old!!! You might not have alot of real life mentors but somehow you are already in a "higher path" to living a full life - and - one NOT filled with stuff and subsequent debt! I hope you see this comment --- 😊 !!!
My dad is the same way. He shops for fun and says I should spend my money, a fancy new car is a status symbol. I can happily say I don’t follow that mindset and accumulated enough to retire before him and pursue my passions. He still works all the time. I travel and enjoy great experiences and there’s a freedom to owning less, or not wanting more. Having gratitude for what you have and your life, even if other people don’t get it or see it, has really helped.
Save your money and when an opportunity to travel or do something really fun comes along you will have the money to easily do it. And how great is it to have financial freedom?! Sounds like you are wise and mature for your age.💗
@@James_36 That's a nicely put, I feel that way too. it drives me crazy that people have to buy and replace things that are not broken, they are feeding into he earths demise.
Instagram is so terrible about making young adults and children believe that everyone has these amazing things except them. Even tho most of these posts are stuff that was either given to the creator they don’t ever even use, or loaned to them for the post and had to be given back, or so overly priced and awfully made it’s not as amazing as the post shows.
Yep, and it's not just Instagram but all social media platforms. That algorithm which fecthes all the content on our feed is based on our clicks and the thing is that we put no thought at all while making a "click". It's all an attempt to make us addicted to it. I gradually realized this when I found myself mindlessly scrolling through Instagram or Twitter whenever I had a bad day or just wasn't feeling good. Before that, I didn't believe social media could have a significant impact on my life. Now I try to be mindful of the content I'm consuming online. A major reason which got me hooked on to social media three years ago was the fear of missing out on "something new happening or trending". However it hardly matters now. If it's something big, I'll learn about it anyway. If not, then it wasn't that important anyway. I cannot agree more with your comment about the creators we see online. Hardly anyone shows their authentic self on the internet. They show us the life we think they live, not what they actually live. It's all about their brand.
Hi Mr. Austin Williams! Often when I go to the mall with a friend I purposely leave my Interac card at home and take ten dollars with me. Should I really want to buy something I'll have to return home and go the following day. It works like magic. When salespeople approach me and I tell them I have only ten dollars they move on to someone else, but more so it has taught me what I really want compared to what I need. Of course, this doesn't work when I go grocery shopping but I'm trying to find a way that I am also restricted in the amount I can use Interac for groceries. Maybe money in four envelopes each month. I'll be thinking, Mr. Williams.
I thought that I could live with social media and not be affected by it however, Christmas time I got the virus that shall not be named and my Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, where all showing and I have every privacy setting down tight so I removed every single app from my phone. I don’t wanna be part of it anymore and a wonder how many times have I been convinced to purchase something. Via social media. I, I do think it’s slowly killing us.
Another great video! About 20 years ago I defined my financial "enough," and about 5 years ago I achieved it and retired early, at comfortable middle class level without excess (with the occasional exception) and without deprivation (with the occasional exception), just a contentedly balanced life filled with gratitude and joy. It's wonderful! The key was looking within to identify what makes me happy, even if it is not in line with cultural trends, then having the courage to live that way over the long haul while pursuing my dreams. One thing that undoubtedly helped a lot was unplugging early on from most vehicles for relentless media messaging (e.g., TV and ad-based streaming), which gave me more mental space to think for myself and strengthen my resolve. Life is good. I hope your channel continues to grow!
You are so right about, having the mindset of 'enough' = contentment, that is maturity in itself. Thank you for your dedication in reminding us what truly matters in life. LOVE your channel.
I think a lot of consumerism is people trying to fill that void that community/family would fill. For some the more isolated they become the more they buy. Also not to take away from the decisions you made to not take on debt but you also had a family supporting you financially. Again I'm not saying you didn't make good decisions but having a supportive family/community especially financially was also a large part that allowed those goals to flourish as well. As much as I would like that to be the scenario for all unfortunately it's not. And that's where the struggle starts for a lot of people.
That's a good reason why consumerism is miserable possessions and material items doesn't make you any happy it only fills the void inside of you. I think that's why people should live a more intentional and minamalist lifestyle.
Yet another great video. I find it fascinating that the goals I want to achieve are actually not too lofty compared to others. My wants are basically a small house with a garage and enough money for my hobbies and the occasional traveling Adventure. I like to take road trips and to drive around as well. To me, driving can be a spiritual experience, especially on an open two lane road surrounded by nothing but nature.
#2 is 100% correct! I have a 9 to 5 & I started my business last year! Success to me is quitting the 9 to 5 and never having a boss or punching a clock, it's not a mansion or bentley. One measures their own success! Augustine, your channel is awesome and educational! 👍 Your idea of consumerism is 100% accurate!
This "free" content model goes back at least as far back as commercial radio in the 1920's, or free printed circulars with advertisements. It's simply more ubiquitous and (arguably) more manipulative. We're so used to it -- it's the wallpaper of our lives -- that we no longer see it. Thanks for reminding us!
One of the differences today is that you are actually being tracked (and presumably recorded) and who knows how that information might be used -- now or in the future.
I am always sceptical of free things. I assume if it’s tech they stealing my data, i never really thought about Google docs until my employer banned us from using it because of intellectual property concerns. I know so many people who just install extensions on their browsers or apps on their phones without reading the privacy policies or looking into the ethics. How many people have robot vacuums and don’t know who has access to view that footage. I know I sound like my grandma saying this but we need to value more than just money. Privacy and security is sometimes worth paying for.
I'm not sure how to define my "enough." Maybe that's something you have to learn with time. But my relationship to spending money has truly changed in the last few months since I've started watching these videos. There's something somewhat pricey I'd like to buy - a dual monitor setup for work and gaming. In the past I would have bought it immediately. I've been sitting on the decision for a few months. I finally ordered it today, and then canceled the order because I decided I wanted to do more research. It makes me feel like when I finally do have it, it will be the right thing. And yes, it's an upgrade, helpful but not strictly necessary, but the point is I don't think I've ever put so much thought into a purchase like this. The sense that I don't have to have this wish fulfilled immediately has been so empowering.
I remember when, not long ago, that your subscribers were at around 700. You've grown quickly. I like how your thoughts are more original, not the same thing we've heard on other channels. I have a few channels that i like listening to (in addition to yours), & i can listen to the topics you all present over & over again. Even if said almost exactly the same as the last video you may have done. Your thinking process is different from the norm.
Thanks! There has definitely been a lot of personal growth in this process. I haven't watched any of my videos since posting them and I'm very curious to see what's changed since my first one, but still want some more time to pass first, haha!
Currently on a NO spend January and it feels so Liberating💫 Love your content🔥 “If you do what's easy, your life will be hard. However, if you do what's hard, your life will be easy.” -Les Brown
Austin, I think I have watched 20+ videos of yours in the past week. They are great! I'm happy your viewership is picking up. The way you talk about and explain money management, minimalism, and how you view life is very much in line with what I believe. I'm happy to have found your channel!
Great quotes, spot on advice Austin. I’ve actually played piano in many restaurants and looking around the entire dining room, everyone is on their cell phones, no one talking. Your videos are much needed. Certainly to me anyways 😊
I have enough and i am satisfied with it. My bills are paid on time, there is always good food on the table and i can enjoy the silence. i am good example for the world how to find happiness. you are similar to me, we have similar views and so i can use what i learn from you. thank you.
Amen. Grew up in a financially-strapped home. We were never able to "keep up with the Joneses." From that I developed minimal material needs. Luckily, those tough years lead to being able to save plenty of money by not caring about impressing people I didn't know with things I didn't need.
Hey Austin, older "retired" fellow Coloradan who wants to thank you for your inspiring videos. My favorite topic of yours is "freedom". I had a lot of it until I hit my 40's. Then, I decided to become a public school teacher in Denver for the next 18 years, I just "retired", but am looking forward to meeting up with my old friend "freedom". Thanks for reminding me!
I've been a minimalist for a long time now, but lately I find myself browsing online shops in every spare time I have and I shop a lot more. I'm not even that excited to recive the packages. Hopefully I can manage to get back on track.
I have enough, but I’m not content. I think I’m tired of the mundaneness of my life, but I’m also grateful for what I have. My life lacks experiences, but I don’t have enough money to pursue them very often.
I’m sorry to hear that you are not content even though you have enough things. Do you think that your life could be enriched by participating in Some volunteer opportunities? These generally don’t cost you much at all but can be enormously rewarding. If you like animals There are lots of animal shelters and sanctuaries that are crying out for volunteers. Is you are interested in environmental protection maybe you could participate in a beach clean up. These are just a few examples. The possibilities are really endless. Light and love to you on your journey.
@@susandean8584 Thanks for your reply! Maybe my comment came out wrong. I am content with what I have, and grateful. I don’t need anything more. But I feel the urge to get out and experience more. I would love to sell my house and just travel, but my husband isn’t a risk taker, lol, so I’m trying to experience more life on a budget. Anyway, I am a big volunteer person and also am a caretaker. Maybe it’s just the long, dark days of the cold north getting to me, lol.
I just discovered your channel and wanted to say thank you for sharing hope (which is all too deficient on the internet). You have such a peaceful manner that I greatly appreciate. Calming during this strange transformation we are in! Vaya con Dios!
Yes i agree about having your 'coffee treat'. I'm not a coffee drinker, but bc i own & live w/my favorites & what is relevant to my life. I find i don't need much. Therefore, when i go shopping it is always well within my financial means to 'treat myself' & try new & interesting things if i desire.
Any TH-camr who quotes Britney Spears while discussing finances and consumerism HAS to be taken seriously. Agustin I absolutely ADORE you. You write so well. I'm always very impressed with your content and your personality, and you are quite easy on the eye too ! X
Interesting comment about growth. It's interesting like property/housing investment. The core of it based off basically hoping to flip this necessity to someone else somewhere down the track. But ppl don't seem to think about that or are intentional about it, they just see buying property = more money in the future. Not considering that they are hoping someone else will take on a $800k debt for a property they need to live in with their new young family, that they bought for $300k
I love watching your point of view that you give as far from a philosophical concept. You bring up a lot of topics that we take for granted or just don't think a lot about. You stress on personal growth and how to make the individual self much better and more about substance.
Love to hear your thoughts!!! You are such a deep thinker and its amazing to see this kind of content!! It always challenges my thinking and I love it!!!
Its definitely nice to take advantage of, but my family treats me different now that i have a nice house. I was in college and grinding and didnt get a job out of college so didnt get the same respect as now. Its important but its not everything is the way i see it and i see past the overemphasis in money and stuff
I've been following a lot of minimalism and budgeting channels. Looks like I just found a new one. Your content is great! I hope you reach a million subscribers soon.
Thanks for this video! It inspired me a lot like other videos in this channel. It is helpful reminder for me to cut down on my spending in my daily life. Thax!🙂
I like this video. I really resonated with being intentional about spending and the discourse on perceived success that consumerism fuels "having more in general equal being successful." Personally, no tangible stuff have brought me a long-lasting contentment. I believe that success is not what you measure by comparing to others and having more expensive stuff, but how you feel such as feeling of accomplishment after working on a project that you have been working on for a while (you have built up). It is interesting reflecting my life after watching video, I found meaning in life through experience, not through objects. Of course, those experiences required money, but like you mentioned, it was intentional spending, and it made me truly feel I was living meaningful life, which is great. In this generation where social media has been heavily influencing consumer behavior, it is very hard to keep ourselves aware of the system and I still need to keep working on it. One thing that helped me through my journey to be intentional about my spending is value work. Once I did value work, found core values, and have clarity around what is important to me in life, I was able to be better at intentional spending:) Thank you for giving me the opportunity for self-reflection, Austin!
Keep on philosophizing Austen. We can go deeper yet. Alan Watts says the only way to feel enough is to change the way we see our relationship to the world.
Hello Austin ( Happy non consumerism new year ) !! 🎉 Hoping that 2023 brings real joy and love to you , your loved ones and your consumers ( oops meant viewers ) ❤ Stay beautiful, you beautiful human being , Sydney, Australia 🇦🇺 🎉 Take care 🤗
Hola, Agustín. TH-cam recommended me your video and it just made so much sense to me and what I've been through. Tus palabras llegan a nuestros corazones ❤️ Saludos desde España 😉
All that consumerism ends up in landfills or in the sewage system. 😕 In addition, women spend an enormous amount of money on weekly salon visits to beautify their fingernails, toenails, and hair. Think about the ridiculousness of that.
I love number 5. I'm always establishing "enough" before I start on a goal. That way once I reach my goal, I can be content and not be tempted to strive for more.
Your videos are very much like the book The psychology of money a wonderful book. You have a unique and deep insights in our human nature and some are hidden. You bring them up into the light. And sometimes we feel positive shame.
This is funny cause no one uses cloud services anymore. Everyone now uses an external hard drive, speaking of hard drives I need a new hard drive for college, and personal use. Very good video, I am new to your channel by the way.
Greed is the problem! People aren't satisfied or fulfilled from the inside, so they need external things to make them "happy".
On point 👌👍
I didn’t shop for a year and at the end of it, I was happier than I have ever been. Consumerism did indeed make me miserable. We will not survive on this planet if we continue with rampant consumerism. Another thoughtful and inspiring video! Thanks so much ❤❤❤
same here! I am so happy!!
Wow Sandra how did you do that? 🙌🏾🙏🏾
@@jtt1928I assume it's possible to barter, grow your own food, make clothes, etc.
I make $40k/year. I have a family of 4. My wife stays home with the kids. We have no debt. We rent from an older woman at $400/month plus utilities. We are so frugal, but we have all that we need. 1 car, an older camry. $50k cash in the bank and growing. Once we reach $100k, we will buy a home. We are in a very cozy situation, but it was planned. Meanwhile, her uncle and aunt make over $160k/year between the both of them and struggle paying their utility bills and car notes. They owe back taxes on their home and the bank almost foreclosed twice. They are very miserable people and lash out at their friends and family. There's infidelity issues with her aunt too and everyone knows about it lol. Needless to say, we stopped associating with them because of the toxicity.
Wow! What a blessing! $400 a month!
FOMO drives most of the consumerism, imo. FOMO makes us chase desires that weren't even ours at the first place. A lot of us are so into things that we never know what WE actually want.
Facts.
Fomo?
@@justlaughatlife8461 Fear of Missing Out = FOMO
@@rookiej5587 appreciated
Hmmm...depends on your age. I have a few things I am "decluttering". But, I can assure you as you get older your regret will grow expotentially ...you finally realise you really never ever need all that much "stuff".
I’m definitely trying to cut back…learned to really appreciate money after working/earning a high income for over 15 years & then being laid off for 6 months….from that experienced implemented great cost cutting changes; I learned to cut my own hair, mow my own lawn, paid off my cars/credit cards, cut the cable cord, & have never felt better! I’ve been back working for about 3 years (great income too) but I keep the same low spending mentality!
I now buy more mindfully, I still buy, but much much less. Chasing the high is very addictive.
I am tired of the cycle of buying and purging. Just saving my money is simpler.
Your statement about a system that is sustained by manipulation and abuse being pointless is revolutionary. You're right. It's outrageous.
As an older gal (much older lol) I can assure you I see what you are saying because my youth was so less possessed by consumerism. I am glad to see you talk about this as a young person.
I feel like I beat consumerism. Why? The only stores I walk into now is grocery and pharmacy. I refuse to click on Amazon. Only if I need a specific item. I challenge other viewers of this channel to only shop for groceries only for a month.
I only buy gas and groceries!
The entire point of this system is make sure you NEVER get close to figuring out enough. They only want you to think that the newer, shinier "thing" is the ONE that will suddenly make you rich, hot, smart, happy, etc.
ALL of this comes down to critical thinking and teaching and encouraging others to think critically. The questions that you put on screen in your videos allow for that kind of necessary reflections. 🙌 Some people enjoy being a part of the system just as it now WITH the full awareness of Big Corp manipulation, etc. Keep the videos coming Austin. Your approach is simplistic, authentic, genuine and hilarious.
My old consumerism joke, I'm Buddhish, Jewish Buddhist, I patiently wait for a sale.
These are salient points. Strive for value.
I have bad ADHD and you caught my attention for a whole video. That’s pretty impressive. I’m paying off my debt and getting off this stupid hamster wheel. I’m 50 and been on it a long time. I’m tired, fed up and miserable. I will live in my car if I have to to get out from under this financial crap heap. Great points you make here.
Awesome! I'm happy!
It's the slow perfect paced speech that caught my attention as well as an ADHD person.
You have ADHD because you’re a slave to the algorithms.
i agree
I'm 18 years old, and falling into consumerism culture is extremely easy. I'm Gen-Z so I practically grew up with the internet and everywhere I go, everything I see, I'm being marketed or persuaded to buy or do something. I'm trying my best to control myself to not buy things on an impulse just because it seems cool or just because it seems like everyone else has it. Before I purchase anything, I wait a couple weeks- months even- to see if I genuinely want it. I list out the pros and cons of purchasing the product, and I ask myself why I feel like I need something. If I have a valid reason to buy something, then I will.
For instance, I enjoy fashion and styling myself but I don't buy trendy clothes. My wardrobe has been carefully curated to be "timeless." The colors are mostly neutrals like brown, gray, white or black. I have a couple of jeans, shirts, and layering pieces that can be put together in a multitude of different combinations so I have endless amounts of outfits. I keep my jewelry simple, as with my makeup. I maybe only have one pair of earrings, two rings and one necklace. My makeup drawer only has 5 items in it.
The thing I struggle with the most are decorative pieces. I'm a huge lover of accessories, especially when it comes to PCs. When I see mechanical keyboards with cute keycaps, or a cute set of pens, I want to buy instantly. It's really difficult for me, but I manage to not purchase them. I tell myself that I already have a keyboard and that I already have pens, so what's the use in buying more? I really really want these cute items though, which feels like a huge issue.
For some reason staying away from consumerist tendencies makes me feel like I'm missing out. I don't know what it is exactly, but it's a feeling that confuses me because I know I'm doing the right thing. I hate it so much. Sometimes I feel like an old person. My parents are huge consumerists, and they always wonder why I barely buy things. They keep trying to convince me to spend money while I can because I'm young and I don't have infinite time, so I should use my money while I can. I'm glad for content like yours because I'm able to see into other people's perspectives on finance. I'm still trying to find the right finance mindset for me, but it is really hard when I don't have any good mentors in real life.
GGukie --- Wow ... What an enlightened and impressive comment; very, very impressive indeed - especially since you are only 18 years old!!! You might not have alot of real life mentors but somehow you are already in a "higher path" to living a full life - and - one NOT filled with stuff and subsequent debt! I hope you see this comment --- 😊 !!!
My dad is the same way. He shops for fun and says I should spend my money, a fancy new car is a status symbol. I can happily say I don’t follow that mindset and accumulated enough to retire before him and pursue my passions. He still works all the time. I travel and enjoy great experiences and there’s a freedom to owning less, or not wanting more. Having gratitude for what you have and your life, even if other people don’t get it or see it, has really helped.
for me it feels like it can affect friendships if you dont follow the consumerism everyone is bought into
Save your money and when an opportunity to travel or do something really fun comes along you will have the money to easily do it. And how great is it to have financial freedom?! Sounds like you are wise and mature for your age.💗
@@James_36 That's a nicely put, I feel that way too. it drives me crazy that people have to buy and replace things that are not broken, they are feeding into he earths demise.
Your videos are getting more and more philosophical. I like it, a lot of food for thought.
I second that!🙌
I third that!!
I fourth that!
I fifth it 🙋🏻♂️
This is great!😄🤗 great job, @ElAgustin !!
Instagram is so terrible about making young adults and children believe that everyone has these amazing things except them. Even tho most of these posts are stuff that was either given to the creator they don’t ever even use, or loaned to them for the post and had to be given back, or so overly priced and awfully made it’s not as amazing as the post shows.
Yep, and it's not just Instagram but all social media platforms. That algorithm which fecthes all the content on our feed is based on our clicks and the thing is that we put no thought at all while making a "click". It's all an attempt to make us addicted to it.
I gradually realized this when I found myself mindlessly scrolling through Instagram or Twitter whenever I had a bad day or just wasn't feeling good. Before that, I didn't believe social media could have a significant impact on my life.
Now I try to be mindful of the content I'm consuming online. A major reason which got me hooked on to social media three years ago was the fear of missing out on "something new happening or trending". However it hardly matters now. If it's something big, I'll learn about it anyway. If not, then it wasn't that important anyway.
I cannot agree more with your comment about the creators we see online. Hardly anyone shows their authentic self on the internet. They show us the life we think they live, not what they actually live. It's all about their brand.
Hi Mr. Austin Williams! Often when I go to the mall with a friend I purposely leave my Interac card at home and take ten dollars with me. Should I really want to buy something I'll have to return home and go the following day. It works like magic. When salespeople approach me and I tell them I have only ten dollars they move on to someone else, but more so it has taught me what I really want compared to what I need. Of course, this doesn't work when I go grocery shopping but I'm trying to find a way that I am also restricted in the amount I can use Interac for groceries. Maybe money in four envelopes each month. I'll be thinking, Mr. Williams.
I was not even aware how much I consume, I thought that was the normal to live,make the money n spend it all,thank u for ur work.
Defining “enough” is the biggest takeaway I’ll be thinking of after today’s video. Thank you for another insightful video!
I thought that I could live with social media and not be affected by it however, Christmas time I got the virus that shall not be named and my Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, where all showing and I have every privacy setting down tight so I removed every single app from my phone. I don’t wanna be part of it anymore and a wonder how many times have I been convinced to purchase something. Via social media. I, I do think it’s slowly killing us.
I have been reading a lot about this stuff lately...
Another great video! About 20 years ago I defined my financial "enough," and about 5 years ago I achieved it and retired early, at comfortable middle class level without excess (with the occasional exception) and without deprivation (with the occasional exception), just a contentedly balanced life filled with gratitude and joy. It's wonderful! The key was looking within to identify what makes me happy, even if it is not in line with cultural trends, then having the courage to live that way over the long haul while pursuing my dreams. One thing that undoubtedly helped a lot was unplugging early on from most vehicles for relentless media messaging (e.g., TV and ad-based streaming), which gave me more mental space to think for myself and strengthen my resolve. Life is good. I hope your channel continues to grow!
That is beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
You are so right about, having the mindset of 'enough' = contentment, that is maturity in itself. Thank you for your dedication in reminding us what truly matters in life. LOVE your channel.
Great content. I made a decision in lockdown not to spend and was able to pay off my house ten years early.
I think a lot of consumerism is people trying to fill that void that community/family would fill. For some the more isolated they become the more they buy.
Also not to take away from the decisions you made to not take on debt but you also had a family supporting you financially. Again I'm not saying you didn't make good decisions but having a supportive family/community especially financially was also a large part that allowed those goals to flourish as well. As much as I would like that to be the scenario for all unfortunately it's not. And that's where the struggle starts for a lot of people.
That's a good reason why consumerism is miserable possessions and material items doesn't make you any happy it only fills the void inside of you. I think that's why people should live a more intentional and minamalist lifestyle.
Yet another great video. I find it fascinating that the goals I want to achieve are actually not too lofty compared to others. My wants are basically a small house with a garage and enough money for my hobbies and the occasional traveling Adventure. I like to take road trips and to drive around as well. To me, driving can be a spiritual experience, especially on an open two lane road surrounded by nothing but nature.
#2 is 100% correct! I have a 9 to 5 & I started my business last year! Success to me is quitting the 9 to 5 and never having a boss or punching a clock, it's not a mansion or bentley. One measures their own success!
Augustine, your channel is awesome and educational! 👍 Your idea of consumerism is 100% accurate!
My goal this year is 6000, one dollar decisions. Oh yeah, and never leave home without water and a full stomach. 🥂
If it's FREE, then you're the product.
“How many storage containers are enough?” I felt that deep in my soul.
This "free" content model goes back at least as far back as commercial radio in the 1920's, or free printed circulars with advertisements. It's simply more ubiquitous and (arguably) more manipulative. We're so used to it -- it's the wallpaper of our lives -- that we no longer see it. Thanks for reminding us!
One of the differences today is that you are actually being tracked (and presumably recorded) and who knows how that information might be used -- now or in the future.
I am always sceptical of free things. I assume if it’s tech they stealing my data, i never really thought about Google docs until my employer banned us from using it because of intellectual property concerns. I know so many people who just install extensions on their browsers or apps on their phones without reading the privacy policies or looking into the ethics. How many people have robot vacuums and don’t know who has access to view that footage. I know I sound like my grandma saying this but we need to value more than just money. Privacy and security is sometimes worth paying for.
Truth
I'm not sure how to define my "enough." Maybe that's something you have to learn with time. But my relationship to spending money has truly changed in the last few months since I've started watching these videos. There's something somewhat pricey I'd like to buy - a dual monitor setup for work and gaming. In the past I would have bought it immediately. I've been sitting on the decision for a few months. I finally ordered it today, and then canceled the order because I decided I wanted to do more research. It makes me feel like when I finally do have it, it will be the right thing. And yes, it's an upgrade, helpful but not strictly necessary, but the point is I don't think I've ever put so much thought into a purchase like this. The sense that I don't have to have this wish fulfilled immediately has been so empowering.
I remember when, not long ago, that your subscribers were at around 700. You've grown quickly. I like how your thoughts are more original, not the same thing we've heard on other channels. I have a few channels that i like listening to (in addition to yours), & i can listen to the topics you all present over & over again. Even if said almost exactly the same as the last video you may have done. Your thinking process is different from the norm.
Thanks! There has definitely been a lot of personal growth in this process. I haven't watched any of my videos since posting them and I'm very curious to see what's changed since my first one, but still want some more time to pass first, haha!
Thank you for your frugal views. I need to be reminded.
Currently on a NO spend January and it feels so
Liberating💫
Love your content🔥
“If you do what's easy, your life will be hard. However, if you do what's hard, your life will be easy.” -Les Brown
Austin, I think I have watched 20+ videos of yours in the past week. They are great! I'm happy your viewership is picking up. The way you talk about and explain money management, minimalism, and how you view life is very much in line with what I believe. I'm happy to have found your channel!
Back ground is first class great light and color.
I can never get ENOUGH of your talks. You are amazing
I appreciate that!
I'd be shocked if you don't hit 1 million subscribers within 2 years. You easily one of the best at this then I have seen from other people!
Wow! Thanks for your kind words! I'm just trying to keep viewership!
I like the studio that you created. Adds a sense of calmness and intimacy to your videos. Hopefully that's what you were going for
I have a pretty small space, so I really had to be creative. That was what came of a few ours of moving things around!
Bravo, well said! I love it when you say "...buy crap..." Calls it what it is!
Great quotes, spot on advice Austin. I’ve actually played piano in many restaurants and looking around the entire dining room, everyone is on their cell phones, no one talking. Your videos are much needed. Certainly to me anyways 😊
I don't take mine with me to begin with and its really so sad to look around and see people sitting together...on their phones.
I have enough and i am satisfied with it. My bills are paid on time, there is always good food on the table and i can enjoy the silence. i am good example for the world how to find happiness. you are similar to me, we have similar views and so i can use what i learn from you. thank you.
Amen. Grew up in a financially-strapped home. We were never able to "keep up with the Joneses." From that I developed minimal material needs. Luckily, those tough years lead to being able to save plenty of money by not caring about impressing people I didn't know with things I didn't need.
"Sweet Spot" Contentment ! I like that, well said. Cajun :-)))
Hey Austin, older "retired" fellow Coloradan who wants to thank you for your inspiring videos. My favorite topic of yours is "freedom". I had a lot of it until I hit my 40's. Then, I decided to become a public school teacher in Denver for the next 18 years, I just "retired", but am looking forward to meeting up with my old friend "freedom". Thanks for reminding me!
I've been a minimalist for a long time now, but lately I find myself browsing online shops in every spare time I have and I shop a lot more. I'm not even that excited to recive the packages. Hopefully I can manage to get back on track.
I have enough, but I’m not content. I think I’m tired of the mundaneness of my life, but I’m also grateful for what I have. My life lacks experiences, but I don’t have enough money to pursue them very often.
I’m sorry to hear that you are not content even though you have enough things. Do you think that your life could be enriched by participating in Some volunteer opportunities? These generally don’t cost you much at all but can be enormously rewarding. If you like animals There are lots of animal shelters and sanctuaries that are crying out for volunteers. Is you are interested in environmental protection maybe you could participate in a beach clean up. These are just a few examples. The possibilities are really endless. Light and love to you on your journey.
@@susandean8584 Thanks for your reply! Maybe my comment came out wrong. I am content with what I have, and grateful. I don’t need anything more. But I feel the urge to get out and experience more. I would love to sell my house and just travel, but my husband isn’t a risk taker, lol, so I’m trying to experience more life on a budget. Anyway, I am a big volunteer person and also am a caretaker. Maybe it’s just the long, dark days of the cold north getting to me, lol.
@@shawnjohnson2833 I hear ya. I live in the north too and the cold dark days can really be a challenge.
You will love Spinoza. All of his philosophy revolves around knowing what's determining you in order to get more free...
I just discovered your channel and wanted to say thank you for sharing hope (which is all too deficient on the internet). You have such a peaceful manner that I greatly appreciate. Calming during this strange transformation we are in! Vaya con Dios!
I appreciate it! I have no clue of what you guys see (as I see it as a million pieces) so that's for your kind words!
Less is MORE. Less is NOW. You are redefining mobility.. blessings upon the “profit” walk &/or run to daylight as challenge people’s VALUE System. ✌🏽
Couldn’t agree more Austin. Thank you for the reminders and serious questions and points. Keep up the good work!
Yes i agree about having your 'coffee treat'. I'm not a coffee drinker, but bc i own & live w/my favorites & what is relevant to my life. I find i don't need much. Therefore, when i go shopping it is always well within my financial means to 'treat myself' & try new & interesting things if i desire.
Any TH-camr who quotes Britney Spears while discussing finances and consumerism HAS to be taken seriously. Agustin I absolutely ADORE you. You write so well. I'm always very impressed with your content and your personality, and you are quite easy on the eye too ! X
Interesting comment about growth.
It's interesting like property/housing investment. The core of it based off basically hoping to flip this necessity to someone else somewhere down the track. But ppl don't seem to think about that or are intentional about it, they just see buying property = more money in the future. Not considering that they are hoping someone else will take on a $800k debt for a property they need to live in with their new young family, that they bought for $300k
100%. might not be what people want to hear but totally agree.
I love watching your point of view that you give as far from a philosophical concept. You bring up a lot of topics that we take for granted or just don't think a lot about. You stress on personal growth and how to make the individual self much better and more about substance.
Money is spiritual! It is not to be worshipped it is not to be loved! Money is a tool and you are the tool box! Have fun money friends! Go Austin !
Love to hear your thoughts!!! You are such a deep thinker and its amazing to see this kind of content!! It always challenges my thinking and I love it!!!
Awesome, thanks!
Its definitely nice to take advantage of, but my family treats me different now that i have a nice house. I was in college and grinding and didnt get a job out of college so didnt get the same respect as now. Its important but its not everything is the way i see it and i see past the overemphasis in money and stuff
Absolutely love your channel! Thank you for sharing this wisdom and insight!
Thanks!
I think You are doing an awesome job! Well done taking the risk of quitting your job, you are brave!
haha, thanks! Still pretty clueless, but learning so much each day!
I've been following a lot of minimalism and budgeting channels. Looks like I just found a new one. Your content is great! I hope you reach a million subscribers soon.
Welcome!
Thanks for this video! It inspired me a lot like other videos in this channel. It is helpful reminder for me to cut down on my spending in my daily life. Thax!🙂
As they say an
Ounce of perception is worth a pound of obscure. Thank you for your keen insight and keep up the great work Augustin!
Always enjoy watching your videos. Great reminders to keep me on track with mindful spending.
I like this video. I really resonated with being intentional about spending and the discourse on perceived success that consumerism fuels "having more in general equal being successful." Personally, no tangible stuff have brought me a long-lasting contentment. I believe that success is not what you measure by comparing to others and having more expensive stuff, but how you feel such as feeling of accomplishment after working on a project that you have been working on for a while (you have built up). It is interesting reflecting my life after watching video, I found meaning in life through experience, not through objects. Of course, those experiences required money, but like you mentioned, it was intentional spending, and it made me truly feel I was living meaningful life, which is great. In this generation where social media has been heavily influencing consumer behavior, it is very hard to keep ourselves aware of the system and I still need to keep working on it. One thing that helped me through my journey to be intentional about my spending is value work. Once I did value work, found core values, and have clarity around what is important to me in life, I was able to be better at intentional spending:) Thank you for giving me the opportunity for self-reflection, Austin!
Keep on philosophizing Austen. We can go deeper yet. Alan Watts says the only way to feel enough is to change the way we see our relationship to the world.
Such a wonderful message to think about. Now, when will I take ACTION on it?? How much is enough?? Thats exactly where I'm at in deciding my life...
❤
Your content is great Austin. You have a wonderful outlook and a natural, sincere charm that makes you likeable. Keep it up
I appreciate it!
The way you speak is exactly like the adult swim infomercial living forever digitally
Money is the foundation of life PERIOD!!!!
Watching your videos ist the best way to start a new day. Thanks for many inspirations.
Hey Agustin ….. I only buy what totally necessary !
I live a simple life without clutter !
Love your videos.
Ladies and Gentlemen, this is a GREAT VIDEO ❤
This channel is becoming more and more helpful to me, THANK YOU SIR 🙋🏻♂️
Thanks Austin. A lovely start to the weekend reset. ❤
I’m so happy to be listening to you now, in the beginning of this new year.
I want to drop you a “thank you” and a Happy New Year. I’ve made some changes after watching your videos!
I’m liking your dark academia background. Thank you for putting your quotes up so I can screenshot them!
Too many choices is not healthy - George Carlin
I am brazilian and love your videos ! Thank you !
Thanks!
Watching Austin changed my financial life...now i have rands in my account and not living on pay check to pay check
I really enjoy your channel. Thank you for posting this kind of content.
This stuff needs to be on a podcast. Great content!
Really eye opening ur all videos feeling shocked to realise how unknowingly people and companies around us making us sleeper cells😮
I cant express with words how much your videos have changed my life. You gave me a new perspective on life.
Awesome! I'm glad!
A great 👍 video again. Thank you. Muchas gracias amigo.
I do enjoy your videos Austin. It took me years to discover what is ENOUGH.
Hello Austin ( Happy non consumerism new year ) !! 🎉
Hoping that 2023 brings real joy and love to you , your loved ones and your consumers ( oops meant viewers ) ❤
Stay beautiful, you beautiful human being ,
Sydney, Australia 🇦🇺 🎉
Take care 🤗
Hola, Agustín. TH-cam recommended me your video and it just made so much sense to me and what I've been through. Tus palabras llegan a nuestros corazones ❤️ Saludos desde España 😉
I'm glad I found your channel. You express many of my thoughts and feelings that I have developed over the past few years.
Awesome!
All that consumerism ends up in landfills or in the sewage system. 😕
In addition, women spend an enormous amount of money on weekly salon visits to beautify their fingernails, toenails, and hair. Think about the ridiculousness of that.
I love number 5. I'm always establishing "enough" before I start on a goal. That way once I reach my goal, I can be content and not be tempted to strive for more.
Your videos are very much like the book The psychology of money a wonderful book. You have a unique and deep insights in our human nature and some are hidden. You bring them up into the light. And sometimes we feel positive shame.
so much wisdom.....from a young mind....
Always a treat to see another Agustin video 😀. You have the best ideas.
Love your videos Austin! Keep it up!
Thanks, will do!
Thank you! 🥇
Excellent video
This is funny cause no one uses cloud services anymore. Everyone now uses an external hard drive, speaking of hard drives I need a new hard drive for college, and personal use. Very good video, I am new to your channel by the way.