Thanks for watching! Want to simplify your home as well? 🌾🏡 Head on over to this video, where I share decluttering tips for beginners and pro minimalists: th-cam.com/video/C4PMIsK27cs/w-d-xo.html
Hi, love, Idk if you'll get to read this, but asking got me nothing to lose, so I am. ☺️ When it comes to business, I'm like you, in that, I want everything to be as simple as possible. I have a small clothing thrift online store and I manage it myself. For ironing and packing, I work with an older lady helper. For everything else, I do them myself. It's been a (hard but) fun journey. It's just I keep getting asked whether I don't want to expand my business; whether I don't want to collab with other people in the thrift so-called 'industry' so I can get to know better, BIGGER, suppliers, so I can sell MORE pieces every month, so I can provide my customers with MORE VARIETIES (I so far only sell shirts and blazers), so I can reach WIDER audience, MUCH BIGGER NUMBER of customers, etc etc... and everytime I get asked that, I cannot genuinely answer, "No, I don't want that. No, I don't need that. What I'm doing and what I gain from it have been sufficient, thanks a lot". I do feel I have enough. Most of my customers are recurring ones. I'm at the point where I'm confident that some of them will always come back every month when I open order. Not necessarily because they need more clothes but because they want to support me, support local businesses, support sustainable-fashion movement. It's a community. Small... but a real kind one. Yet, I also do think growth is important but (1) how to define growth if it's not about THE number? (2) How to get rid of the feelings of missing out? Yes, more money can be a good, comfortable thing but it means innovating and changing what I've been doing -- I just still don't feel the need to change just yet. Even if many other thrift business people earn more, they also work longer hours, (longer than a full-time job perhaps) and with lots of people. And doing similar thing will defeat my purpose of keeping my business simple. Yes, I'm still in college so I have to study and can't pour ALL of my time and energy into my business -- but, what I realize is even without my academic responsibilities, I would still want to keep my business compact. So, (3) how to stop thinking that I SHOULD be earning more money and SHOULD be reaching more people/customers?
If I can get some advice from you about it, it'll be extremely helpful. I've been anxious the past 2 months because of it and I'd like to recover. Your response doesn't have to be in the form of a reply or a new video. If you can please recommend which of your past videos might be a relevant solution to such an issue, I highly appreciate it. Thank you 🙏🙏☺️ Take care and stay healthy ❤️
These are awesome ideas and suggestions. I would add for Americans the idea of constantly "upgrading" vehicles, wardrobe and homes. Challenge consumerism constantly!
Thanks for the great tips. I have learned that whether I get to something on my to do list or not or even if I make a mistake the world still keeps on spinning no matter what I do or do not do.
#3 I am a chronic list-maker when it comes to books, movies, games, TV series etc. I guess if i see or read about something interesting I want to write it down so I don’t forget it. But the problem is that those lists become so long it would take me years to finish them 😬 and even something enjoyable can become a chore when it becomes just ticking items off a list. So I am thinking about trimming those lists to a few item each and trust that the inspiration to read or watch something will come at the right moment.
If it is something that I really really want to watch/listen to/read, I schedule it on my calendar. Otherwise, if it’s just “oh that could be interesting to watch/read/listen to sometime or someday” then I DONT write it down. I believe that when I am ready in the future for whatever that thing that sounded interesting was, it will appear in my path again. If not, it wasn’t that important.
I especially like the batching communications idea. It's great to have half an hour to get through a stack of emails phone calls etc. then have a clear mind while you get on with the main tasks. You can set a note on your social media or an auto-reply to your emails, explaining your strategy. I know that I really respect people who do this. It looks smart not rude!
The phone tray and designating time in the day to respond to messages were two great tips! I am very addicted to my phone even when Im trying to work so I will definetely give these a try! TY! and I love that perfume too! 😁
This video was perfect for me today, I am minimal, I have no extra anything, my routine I have made simple, I don’t like my cell phone I hardly use it, but the outside world is getting to me, I actually had to stop watching the news, I see such a change in the people of this country, people are so uncaring, so judge mental, so angry, and I fear for my grandchildren what kind of world will it be. I am trying to put myself in a zen mood, listening to music, doing stretches, walking, and hopefully my pressure will go back down I needed this today xoxoxox
@Cielo Vida Very interesting point. I read a while ago that there is a limit to the number of people that humans can effectively connect with. I guess people do this through forming value groups of many kinds. I guess balance is needed to be sufficiently concerned about others in the world so as to help, but not to take in unnecessary stress when it wouldn't help them, and would hurt us. Not an easy one.
@@briannabuss9457 @Brianna Buss I'll try and see if I can watch it! :) I always love it when I'm starting a show that's really good, but I've never seen anything from it, so I have lots and lots to binge haha :) I used to be a HUGE fan of Dragonball Z in high school haha
I just found your channel and now I'm obsessed. I definitely don't upgrade my electronics every year. I pretty much use them until they no longer work properly anymore and I absolutely have to buy a new one.
Your phone tray is such a good idea. I have my phone within arms length and I'm constantly looking at it, I'm trying to break this habit so maybe a phone tray placed at the other side of the room would be good for me...turning off notifications yes I'll be doing this too. Thanks Vera.
Trying to live a simple life is the best life! Vera, your channel is sooo soothing and exactly what I need! Your videos have been very therapeutic and helpful for me personally, since I'm a hsp, introvert and working on my minimalism journey. Thank you so much for this wonderful channel that I can turn to regularly.🌿💚
You're so welcome! I found it helpful to get my current 'lists' on paper, and give myself time to work through them. For example with books, I'll either read them, or cross out certain titles that don't make me excited. When the list is through, then you can just start with the one-at-a-time thing :)
I am a list maker. However most of the time that is about as far as I get. 🙄 I do have a mobile phone but I mostly use it just as a phone although do take the occasional photo also. I do not have things like FB nor emails coming through on it as I do not want to be bothered and getting caught up on it all the time like I have seen many when out. Vera, Thank you for another enjoyable video, I hope you have a wonderful day. Good night from 🇭🇲
These ideas are all very helpful. I’d like to add another valuable benefit to the phone tray. It saves me a lot of time! Before I started using a phone tray I spent far too much time looking for my phone! Also saves me a lot of frustration, “Where is my phone????”
Thank you so much for these tips. I have ME/CFS and get overwhelmed with things I feel I have to do. I'll use your tips to help conserve my energy. I love your images of nature. Your videos are so calming.
Hi dear Vera ! Warm thanks for all your blog! You know I appreciate your ideas! All your videos makes me happy and of course inspired me ! Finally I can write a comment! Ha ha 😍🙏
Could you add bullet lists of the tips in videos like this to your description box? 🥺 I appreciate you're videos so much and I know you put a lot of effort into them and they really help but I have a really hard time with concentration and I lose focus and miss a lot sometimes so it would be so helpful to have the list there 🙂
I have stumbled across your channel whilst searching for Zen meditation 🧘♀️ I am so glad I did, going to get myself a designated phone tray and follow your tips, thanks 🙏
Phone tray:))) I've been thinking for ages that i'd rather just have a landline one day. Once it's all over. And now i don't have to wait till i'm an retired lady living in the village with 20 cats:) The simplicity of this idea is just touching. You can still surprise me, Vera:)
Brilliant easy to implement tips. Thank u vera! I will do a daily check in and do that with my phone. Never thought to just keep the phone call ring tone on.
I do so many of these things and am only just realising how they cause me stress, and also keep me constantly living in the future and not being fully present. Thinking of the next book to read before I’ve finished the one I’m reading, which takes the joy and relaxation out of reading, buying food and toiletries before I’ve finished what I have, and looking up replacements for clothing and tech, before I’ve worn out what I have. I think a lot of this behaviour is linked to a scarcity mind set, and can cause anxiety, your video had reminded me to stop a lot of this behaviour.
Thanks so much Vera. I really needed this. I have been bogged down very much these last few months that it has taken a toll both on my physical and mental well being. I have been trying to set right; at times I got going, at times I list track.🙂. Some of the pointers you mentioned I already y been doing especially books, laptop, news and hair colour. At the end of the day, I needed this positivity booster I get from watching your videos. Thanks for such videos.
So happy my videos have been helpful for you Jana. These times are very challenging for many of us.. I hope you'll feel better soon! Take care my friend
I am now in the process of using up what I have. I tend to buy things with savings. Like buy one get two free. And you know how that can go. Before long I have way to many things. So, in the last month I have been using what I have and trying to stay away for all those good deals. As it is I have to keep reminding myself that I have two much. No shopping for me. I have to learn this new habit. In the long run it can be very wasteful and expensive. I am learning. Thank you for this video. It has been very helpful.
So happy you found the video helpful Denise 😊 Changing habits can be tricky but just take things one step at a time and remember to show yourself some patience and compassion 😊⚘ Good luck with using everything up!
Congratulations Vera you look amazing with your hair like that . Very interesting all changes . The content is as always very well transmitted and useful . 🙏😍
I am addicted to buy perfumes. Great advice. I find sometimes trying to help other people I spend too much time on my phone. I have to try phone tray advice 🙂
So many practical, beneficial tips! I've already chosen a few to focus on in the next week. Thank you so much! Your videos Always bring uplifting and positive content!
Thank you, Vera .... Wonderful, calming, & helpful as always! Oooooh ... wow I especially love the “batching” idea, along with the phone tray! Terrific ! I need to start doing that. Phew ! What a relief. It’s fun to “be connected” thru our phone, but it can be too much as well !
Another great video Vera. Great tips. Been planning our meals for a while now and it makes such a big difference . I've also been trying your recipes from your 'What I eat in a day' video and love them. Thank you ♥️
Great video Vera! 😌 Love these tips. I am still struggling with the backlog thing as I do enjoy buying a lot of books! 😏😀 I was at the shops today and I just felt so overwhelmed. I got what I needed to get and went home, but there were times I felt tempted to look at things on impulse and also I was feeling quite insecure about myself and comparing myself to those around me. I will try and practice these tips. 😌 Thank you. 💞
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Hollie Jane. One thing about the backlog thing I didn't get into in the video, but I also found that it helps me to compare myself to others less. Because I know I'm only focusing on one thing at a time, and there's no way to do everything in one lifetime 🤗
I'm so happy that I got to watch the video the day it came out (I'm commenting now but I watched yesterday 😁) it's been really great learning so much about simplifying life (in all aspects) since I've started to follow you and yet you always have something new and insightful to say 🌱✨
I stopped using eyeliner daily. And foundation I had to use a beauty blender with. Now I only wear eyeliner on special occasions and I use a BB or CC cream as my foundation instead.
Thank you for another lovely video Vera /_\♡ your generous sharings always make my day! I am in the process of downsizing my perfume collection over time in much the same way that you have done. I just finished another one and am now down to the three that i like the most, which feels so good to do! This habit of downgrading my backlog has made me more of an ethical and sustainable consumer as well!
Hello Vera! Those where all great tips, I would like to try the Phone Tray, but checking my phone only 2 or 3 times a day, that would be still very hard for me, maybe as step 2 🤭 I also loved the "do I have to so this right now" question, thanks for the video, I wish you a great day
I always have multiple books I’m reading at once-if I only have one I’m “allowed” to read, then I get stressed if I’m not feeling it for a few days or a week. That feels like lost time when I could have read something else during that time.
You must be reading my mind way over here in the States. I have been feeling overwhelmed lately. I know my problem is procrastination. It is my biggest downfall. I live a very simple life but by procrastinating, I make it hard on myself. I've tried all kinds of methods to get over it but I fall back in to the pit. I love the stitching on the gray afghan behind you. Did you make that?
I think Vera mentioned another time that the afgan was a Christmas gift. Lovely isn’t it ? I had to come here & reply b/c your comment made me think of a great recent yt vid by Dana K White. It was on time mngt. ( sorry ... I forget exact title). It’s not very long, & I think you’d really like it; I did. One thing she mentioned ( maybe Dawn / The Minimal Mom did too in HER recent time mngr vid ?) : we often over estimate how long some daunting task will take : so we put it off. More often than not, they take far less time than we thought. Also : “5 minutes matters”. Sometimes we feel we can’t tackle something unless we have an entire afternoon for it. Or our perfectionism is paralyzing us. Little 5 min windows of time, or just making something BETTER ( not perfect) is so helpful ! Good luck ! From a fellow procrastinator !
@@lizzabbott thank you for the suggestions. I follow Dawn but not the other one. I'll check her out. You are right, perfectionism is most likely my biggest obstacle to getting over procrastination.
Love what you two shared about procrastination and perfectionism! :) Also, about the blanket, yes Lizzabbott is right, it was a Christmas present :) A friend of a friend made it, she's very talented :)
Hi Vera great tips I especially like the phone tray idea 😉 and also have been looking at meal planning I find it exhausting having to think about meals all the time ❤️
Hi Vera, thank you so much for your incredible tips!! I will definitely try "a phone tray" one and "do i have to do this right now?" one. I hope they will make a nice change in my life. By the way, I am so impressed that you read/have read "I am a cat" by Soseki Natsume!! He is one of my favorite writers:)
So happy you enjoyed this video and found some helpful tips in there for you to try out!! Yes I absolutely love Natsume Soseki :) I'm really enjoying I am a cat, and I've already read (and will re-read) Sanshiro, Kokoro and Botchan :)
@@SimpleHappyZen Thank you for your reply, Vera. Botchan and I am a cat are so fun to read. Speaking of Kokoro, It's not easy to understand the messages, so it's worth re-reading (I don't know how many times I've read Kokoro. In Japan, it's on so many textbooks for high school students)
I agree :) I'm sure I missed many details on my first read, so I'll make sure to read it again. I also love that Haruki Murakami (my favorite author) wrote a preface for Sanshiro. :)
I feel the same about books , especially English books which needs to catch up. I have over stress about it . I decided to take care of myself with no pressure . I have a question , when you feel stress, over things ( CDs ) what will you do ?
Vera, I've just trawled through several of your videos, at random. I've listened about minimalism, burn out, food choices, not to marry, choice not to have children,etc. I understood the values of your advise and comments which I feel cannot be challenged yet there is something that concerns me (worries me) I can't help but think is this level of self absorbance that healthy? There's conflict for me in the idea that everything is so well thought out and could be perceived as robotic. Its like working at being natural and uncluttered in mind and life style but actually the mind becoming cluttered and rigid with this mind set...unnatural? I hope this makes sense. I know what I mean but I'm finding it hard to express.
Hi Ann! Thanks for sharing your thoughts. :) I understand what you mean by the mind becoming cluttered and rigid with a certain mindset. This is actually something we've recently discussed a bit on Patreon. I personally don't feel like this is the case in my life, and I often like to remind everyone that this is not an excuse to become a perfectionist in having everything be perfectly aligned and intentional. In the end, I'm pretty laid back about most of these things, they just happen out of a natural preference for keeping things simple. But this can be one of the pitfalls of simplifying and minimizing, and something to keep in mind :)
There are some petitions to lawmakers to require phone makers to allow battery replacement, instead of having to buy a new phone when the battery is kaput, which forces some to upgrade when their phones are no longer available or repurchase.
Thank you so much Lidwina! :) Actually, being Dutch, I grew up hearing American English on tv and in movies. We don't dub things here (only subtitles) and most of the things I watched were American English. So most Dutch people are able to speak English pretty well :)
Thanks for watching! Want to simplify your home as well? 🌾🏡 Head on over to this video, where I share decluttering tips for beginners and pro minimalists: th-cam.com/video/C4PMIsK27cs/w-d-xo.html
Hi, love, Idk if you'll get to read this, but asking got me nothing to lose, so I am. ☺️
When it comes to business, I'm like you, in that, I want everything to be as simple as possible. I have a small clothing thrift online store and I manage it myself. For ironing and packing, I work with an older lady helper. For everything else, I do them myself. It's been a (hard but) fun journey. It's just I keep getting asked whether I don't want to expand my business;
whether I don't want to collab with other people in the thrift so-called 'industry' so I can get to know better, BIGGER, suppliers,
so I can sell MORE pieces every month,
so I can provide my customers with MORE VARIETIES (I so far only sell shirts and blazers),
so I can reach WIDER audience, MUCH BIGGER NUMBER of customers, etc etc...
and everytime I get asked that, I cannot genuinely answer, "No, I don't want that. No, I don't need that. What I'm doing and what I gain from it have been sufficient, thanks a lot".
I do feel I have enough. Most of my customers are recurring ones. I'm at the point where I'm confident that some of them will always come back every month when I open order. Not necessarily because they need more clothes but because they want to support me, support local businesses, support sustainable-fashion movement. It's a community. Small... but a real kind one.
Yet, I also do think growth is important but
(1) how to define growth if it's not about THE number?
(2) How to get rid of the feelings of missing out?
Yes, more money can be a good, comfortable thing
but it means innovating and changing what I've been doing -- I just still don't feel the need to change just yet.
Even if many other thrift business people earn more, they also work longer hours, (longer than a full-time job perhaps) and with lots of people. And doing similar thing will defeat my purpose of keeping my business simple.
Yes, I'm still in college so I have to study and can't pour ALL of my time and energy into my business -- but, what I realize is even without my academic responsibilities, I would still want to keep my business compact. So, (3) how to stop thinking that I SHOULD be earning more money and SHOULD be reaching more people/customers?
If I can get some advice from you about it, it'll be extremely helpful. I've been anxious the past 2 months because of it and I'd like to recover.
Your response doesn't have to be in the form of a reply or a new video. If you can please recommend which of your past videos might be a relevant solution to such an issue, I highly appreciate it. Thank you 🙏🙏☺️
Take care and stay healthy ❤️
Many Americans are still caught in the productivity mindset and consumer mindset. Your remedies shine light on alternative thinking. Thank you!
Not only Americans.
Thank you matchalatte 🤗💖
@@evarodriguez4319 you’re right. It’s deeply rooted in American culture, but it’s becoming more and more common in other countries now too
“Except for tea, you can never have too much tea” literally laughed out loud. You are a kindred spirit. ❤
Phone tray is a great idea.
You'll thank me! 😁
@@SimpleHappyZen already am thanking you.
I love my 'boring life. When it shifts ahead too fast I'll do everything possible to rein it back in.
Thanks always for your inspiration.
I can totally relate 😄
These are awesome ideas and suggestions. I would add for Americans the idea of constantly "upgrading" vehicles, wardrobe and homes. Challenge consumerism constantly!
The menu list for a week with list of groceries is soooo nice. Saves time, choices and no waste buy. And no stress while shopping, feel in controle
Exactly! 😄
9:00 It really is stressful not knowing what to make for dinner so i love the idea of the simple meal plan
Thanks for the great tips. I have learned that whether I get to something on my to do list or not or even if I make a mistake the world still keeps on spinning no matter what I do or do not do.
Exactly!!! That's such a great and valuable insight 🤗🌷🍵
#3 I am a chronic list-maker when it comes to books, movies, games, TV series etc. I guess if i see or read about something interesting I want to write it down so I don’t forget it. But the problem is that those lists become so long it would take me years to finish them 😬 and even something enjoyable can become a chore when it becomes just ticking items off a list.
So I am thinking about trimming those lists to a few item each and trust that the inspiration to read or watch something will come at the right moment.
If it is something that I really really want to watch/listen to/read, I schedule it on my calendar. Otherwise, if it’s just “oh that could be interesting to watch/read/listen to sometime or someday” then I DONT write it down. I believe that when I am ready in the future for whatever that thing that sounded interesting was, it will appear in my path again. If not, it wasn’t that important.
Thanks to both of you, love what you shared!
"The never-ending backlog" part was really helpful.
Glad to hear you found it helpful 🤗🌷
Set boundaries around news. That’s what I’m especially challenged with right now.
You can do it, take care! 🤗
I especially like the batching communications idea. It's great to have half an hour to get through a stack of emails phone calls etc. then have a clear mind while you get on with the main tasks. You can set a note on your social media or an auto-reply to your emails, explaining your strategy. I know that I really respect people who do this. It looks smart not rude!
The phone tray and designating time in the day to respond to messages were two great tips! I am very addicted to my phone even when Im trying to work so I will definetely give these a try! TY! and I love that perfume too! 😁
Thanks Hilary, happy you found these tips helpful! :) And haha yes the perfume smells really nice :)
This is relevant to me too. I go in and out my phone all day 😊
Vera, I really enjoy the style of your videos, the pace is fast enough to keep me focused and slow enough to allow the knowledge to sink in.
That's amazing to hear, since that is exactly what I'm always going for when creating my videos 😄 Thanks!!
Definitely. A reason to love Vera's videos .
This video was perfect for me today, I am minimal, I have no extra anything, my routine I have made simple, I don’t like my cell phone I hardly use it, but the outside world is getting to me, I actually had to stop watching the news, I see such a change in the people of this country, people are so uncaring, so judge mental, so angry, and I fear for my grandchildren what kind of world will it be. I am trying to put myself in a zen mood, listening to music, doing stretches, walking, and hopefully my pressure will go back down
I needed this today xoxoxox
@Cielo Vida that might be my new strategy….
@Cielo Vida Very interesting point. I read a while ago that there is a limit to the number of people that humans can effectively connect with. I guess people do this through forming value groups of many kinds. I guess balance is needed to be sufficiently concerned about others in the world so as to help, but not to take in unnecessary stress when it wouldn't help them, and would hurt us. Not an easy one.
“Except for tea. You can never have too much tea.” Channeling Uncle Iroh ❤️❤️
I've actually never watched the last airbender 😊 Is it good?
@@SimpleHappyZen THE BEST!! you definitely need to see it. It’s a show literally everyone loves. One of those once-in-decade shows
@@briannabuss9457 @Brianna Buss I'll try and see if I can watch it! :) I always love it when I'm starting a show that's really good, but I've never seen anything from it, so I have lots and lots to binge haha :)
I used to be a HUGE fan of Dragonball Z in high school haha
I just found your channel and now I'm obsessed. I definitely don't upgrade my electronics every year. I pretty much use them until they no longer work properly anymore and I absolutely have to buy a new one.
The never-ending back-log really spoke to me. While watching I realized I had 12 tabs open on my laptop all screaming for my attention.
Keeping tabs open is a very good example :) The more tabs we have open on our laptop, the more we have open in our head :)
Absolutely love the phone tray idea! 🎉
Glad to hear it, thanks Dianne!! 🤗
Your phone tray is such a good idea. I have my phone within arms length and I'm constantly looking at it, I'm trying to break this habit so maybe a phone tray placed at the other side of the room would be good for me...turning off notifications yes I'll be doing this too. Thanks Vera.
It's hard to resist the urge when the phone is just beside you :) Hope the phone tray will work just as well for you as it's working for me! :)
Trying to live a simple life is the best life! Vera, your channel is sooo soothing and exactly what I need! Your videos have been very therapeutic and helpful for me personally, since I'm a hsp, introvert and working on my minimalism journey. Thank you so much for this wonderful channel that I can turn to regularly.🌿💚
Thank you so much for leaving this wonderful comment 🤗🍂🍁💕
I absolutely love your tips and feel that they are more detailed & unique than other videos I’ve watched!
😄🌷❤
I really have big lists and I usually get stressed with them. I should try not to have them anymore. Thank you very much
You're so welcome! I found it helpful to get my current 'lists' on paper, and give myself time to work through them. For example with books, I'll either read them, or cross out certain titles that don't make me excited. When the list is through, then you can just start with the one-at-a-time thing :)
I will definitely try them. U are a nice person ❤️
I am definitely trying to simplify my life as much as practically possible so I always really appreciate videos like this. 💖
Happy to hear it Amber, hope you're doing well! Sending love your way 💕🌷
I am a list maker. However most of the time that is about as far as I get. 🙄
I do have a mobile phone but I mostly use it just as a phone although do take the occasional photo also.
I do not have things like FB nor emails coming through on it as I do not want to be bothered and getting caught up on it all the time like I have seen many when out.
Vera, Thank you for another enjoyable video, I hope you have a wonderful day. Good night from 🇭🇲
Thank you so much Deb and I think it's great you only use your phone as a phone and for taking the occasional photo :)
i just found your channel. You are great and have lots of wonderful tips!
cant wait to binge your channel!!
Thank you so much Melissa, welcome to the channel! :)
And we shoud keep positive on our thoughts...thank u...
These ideas are all very helpful. I’d like to add another valuable benefit to the phone tray. It saves me a lot of time! Before I started using a phone tray I spent far too much time looking for my phone! Also saves me a lot of frustration, “Where is my phone????”
Yes that's so true 😄
Thank you so much for these tips. I have ME/CFS and get overwhelmed with things I feel I have to do. I'll use your tips to help conserve my energy. I love your images of nature. Your videos are so calming.
Thank you so much Lizzie, I'm sorry to hear about your condition, please take good care! Sending love your way
The backlog is so relatable! Thank you for the tips! Super useful and I love how calming this video was. Beautiful B-roll 😊👌
Thank you so much, that's nice to hear :) Enjoy your day!
Hi dear Vera ! Warm thanks for all your blog! You know I appreciate your ideas! All your videos makes me happy and of course inspired me !
Finally I can write a comment! Ha ha 😍🙏
Thank you so much Linda, I appreciate that! 🤗🌾💕 Enjoy your day!
Could you add bullet lists of the tips in videos like this to your description box? 🥺 I appreciate you're videos so much and I know you put a lot of effort into them and they really help but I have a really hard time with concentration and I lose focus and miss a lot sometimes so it would be so helpful to have the list there 🙂
Thanks Brianna. I usually add chapters but to be honest, I forgot to do it with this video. I'll be sure to add them when I have time 😊
@@SimpleHappyZen thank you so much! ☺️
I have stumbled across your channel whilst searching for Zen meditation 🧘♀️ I am so glad I did, going to get myself a designated phone tray and follow your tips, thanks 🙏
Yay, thanks Zoe! 🤗🍁🍂💕
Phone tray:))) I've been thinking for ages that i'd rather just have a landline one day. Once it's all over. And now i don't have to wait till i'm an retired lady living in the village with 20 cats:) The simplicity of this idea is just touching. You can still surprise me, Vera:)
So happy to hear it! Sometimes the simplest solutions are the best ones :) Let me know how it goes once you've tried it!
I like the phone tray idea! Will definitely try that and the batching digital communications. thanks for the easy and practical tips!
Happy to hear it! :D You're very welcome, enjoy your day!
Brilliant easy to implement tips. Thank u vera! I will do a daily check in and do that with my phone. Never thought to just keep the phone call ring tone on.
Glad to hear it Ruth, hope the tips will work out for you! :) Have a nice day
ABSOLUTELY ❤️ these super practical videos that make me rethink the small but nevertheless very important things in life. Thank you Simple Happy Zen
Happy to hear it, thanks Justin! :)
Thank you! You are exactly what I was looking for ! I really need it now , expecting my third child!
I do so many of these things and am only just realising how they cause me stress, and also keep me constantly living in the future and not being fully present. Thinking of the next book to read before I’ve finished the one I’m reading, which takes the joy and relaxation out of reading, buying food and toiletries before I’ve finished what I have, and looking up replacements for clothing and tech, before I’ve worn out what I have. I think a lot of this behaviour is linked to a scarcity mind set, and can cause anxiety, your video had reminded me to stop a lot of this behaviour.
Yes! I have enough, and I am enough 😊
@Sarah and @Ciela Vida 🤗💕🍃✨
Thanks so much Vera. I really needed this. I have been bogged down very much these last few months that it has taken a toll both on my physical and mental well being. I have been trying to set right; at times I got going, at times I list track.🙂. Some of the pointers you mentioned I already y been doing especially books, laptop, news and hair colour.
At the end of the day, I needed this positivity booster I get from watching your videos. Thanks for such videos.
So happy my videos have been helpful for you Jana. These times are very challenging for many of us.. I hope you'll feel better soon! Take care my friend
I always enjoy the pretty & peaceful images of nature that you include in your videos.
Thanks Lizzabbott :)
I definitely have a backlog of books to read and shows to watch lol.
Haha yes I think many of us do 😄
I am now in the process of using up what I have. I tend to buy things with savings. Like buy one get two free. And you know how that can go. Before long I have way to many things. So, in the last month I have been using what I have and trying to stay away for all those good deals. As it is I have to keep reminding myself that I have two much. No shopping for me. I have to learn this new habit. In the long run it can be very wasteful and expensive. I am learning. Thank you for this video. It has been very helpful.
So happy you found the video helpful Denise 😊 Changing habits can be tricky but just take things one step at a time and remember to show yourself some patience and compassion 😊⚘ Good luck with using everything up!
Thank you, I know this will take some time to use them up. Thanks again. Smiles.@@SimpleHappyZen
Congratulations Vera you look amazing with your hair like that . Very interesting all changes . The content is as always very well transmitted and useful . 🙏😍
Thank you so much for your kind comment Helia!! Have a nice day!
I am addicted to buy perfumes. Great advice. I find sometimes trying to help other people I spend too much time on my phone. I have to try phone tray advice 🙂
Good luck with it and let me know how it goes 🤗
Your natural hair color is beautiful and i love the waves! You and I are both natural darker blondes...its so nice not having to dye it. :)
So many practical, beneficial tips! I've already chosen a few to focus on in the next week. Thank you so much! Your videos Always bring uplifting and positive content!
So happy to hear it! :) Let me know how it goes with the tips you want to implement :)
Your explanations always make things easier!
Thank You Vera Your Videos are very helpful. It will help me with my stress. UK
Thank you, Vera .... Wonderful, calming, & helpful as always! Oooooh ... wow I especially love the “batching” idea, along with the phone tray! Terrific ! I need to start doing that. Phew ! What a relief. It’s fun to “be connected” thru our phone, but it can be too much as well !
Exactly! :) Happy to hear it
These are terrific ideas. Not the same old stuff that I’ve heard for years. Thank you!
So happy to hear it, thanks Lynnette! :) Enjoy your Monday
batching is a brilliant idea! thank you
Happy to hear it! :D
Love the phone tray idea! Totally incorporating it!
Happy to hear it 😄
Meal prep is my favorite one!
It really does help :)
Another great video Vera. Great tips. Been planning our meals for a while now and it makes such a big difference . I've also been trying your recipes from your 'What I eat in a day' video and love them. Thank you ♥️
So happy to hear that Kimberly!!! I still make those recipes often, they're so good haha
Listening to this while getting through my TH-cam Watch Later backlog...
listening while doing my chores❤️🇵🇭🇯🇵
😄🤗🍵
Thanks Vera it was great to see you today. thank you for the great tips❤
Thank you so much Cathy, likewise!!! 🤗💕
These are good little tips to help you. Thank you Vera I shall take a few of these on board 😀
So happy to hear that! Thank you Patricia :)
You air dry your hair?! It looks GORGEOUS! 😍💚
Haha thank you! Yes I actually found out my hair gets less frizzy this way...
Great video! You pinpointed a lot of my pitfalls, so these are very concise and helpful suggestions!
Thanks, happy to hear you found the tips helpful 🤗🍵⚘
Excellent advice Vera. Incredible things to implement.
Happy to hear it :) Have a lovely day!
@@SimpleHappyZen You have a wonderful day too Vera.
Great video Vera! 😌 Love these tips. I am still struggling with the backlog thing as I do enjoy buying a lot of books! 😏😀 I was at the shops today and I just felt so overwhelmed. I got what I needed to get and went home, but there were times I felt tempted to look at things on impulse and also I was feeling quite insecure about myself and comparing myself to those around me. I will try and practice these tips. 😌 Thank you. 💞
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Hollie Jane. One thing about the backlog thing I didn't get into in the video, but I also found that it helps me to compare myself to others less. Because I know I'm only focusing on one thing at a time, and there's no way to do everything in one lifetime 🤗
I'm so happy that I got to watch the video the day it came out (I'm commenting now but I watched yesterday 😁)
it's been really great learning so much about simplifying life (in all aspects) since I've started to follow you and yet you always have something new and insightful to say 🌱✨
Aw thank you Gabi 🌷🍵🌺 I appreciate it :)
I stopped using eyeliner daily. And foundation I had to use a beauty blender with. Now I only wear eyeliner on special occasions and I use a BB or CC cream as my foundation instead.
Saves quite a bit of time doesn't it :)
I LOVE THESE TIPS, THANK YOU!!! Much love 💖💖💖
So happy to hear it!! 🤗🍂🍁 Take care my friend
Tiny habits go a long way! Love these 😌
Very true! :) Thanks Mariela, enjoy your day!
@@SimpleHappyZen you too!
Very useful dear! Arigatou Gozaimasu! 🙇🏻♀️☺️
I'm glad to hear it! 🤗🌱🍵
As allways, little tips that help us. Thank you Vera!
Yay, happy to hear it 😄🍵🌱
Tiny yet powerful tips! Thanks a lot, Vera!
Happy to hear it, have a nice day! 🤗🌷
@@SimpleHappyZen thanks! You too.
Thank you for another lovely video Vera /_\♡ your generous sharings always make my day!
I am in the process of downsizing my perfume collection over time in much the same way that you have done. I just finished another one and am now down to the three that i like the most, which feels so good to do! This habit of downgrading my backlog has made me more of an ethical and sustainable consumer as well!
So happy you're enjoying the downsizing process! :)
Such a helpful video Vera, following these suggestions would make us all much more content.
Thank you so much Lynby 🤗🌤 That's nice to hear. Take care and have a nice weekend!
I'm so glad.i found you fashion is fun and all but your info is for the soul love it
Thank you so much for your kind comment 🤗🌷
Hello Vera! Those where all great tips, I would like to try the Phone Tray, but checking my phone only 2 or 3 times a day, that would be still very hard for me, maybe as step 2 🤭 I also loved the "do I have to so this right now" question, thanks for the video, I wish you a great day
Hi Cristina! Oh yes you could definitely try implementing the phone tray first and just see how that goes 😄 Step by step!
Great advice as usual! I will try to follow them as best I can :) Thanks!
Thanks so much, have a lovely day! :)
I always have multiple books I’m reading at once-if I only have one I’m “allowed” to read, then I get stressed if I’m not feeling it for a few days or a week. That feels like lost time when I could have read something else during that time.
Ah well if that works better for you, definitely keep doing it that way! 😄
Thank you Vera for another helpful video🙏 have a nice Day 🤗
You're very welcome Justyna, glad you found it helpful 🤗🍵
I use a telephone at home and it is always in one place because it is plugged in. When I need the internet I use a computer.
You must be reading my mind way over here in the States. I have been feeling overwhelmed lately. I know my problem is procrastination. It is my biggest downfall. I live a very simple life but by procrastinating, I make it hard on myself. I've tried all kinds of methods to get over it but I fall back in to the pit.
I love the stitching on the gray afghan behind you. Did you make that?
I think Vera mentioned another time that the afgan was a Christmas gift. Lovely isn’t it ?
I had to come here & reply b/c your comment made me think of a great recent yt vid by Dana K White. It was on time mngt. ( sorry ... I forget exact title). It’s not very long, & I think you’d really like it; I did. One thing she mentioned ( maybe Dawn / The Minimal Mom did too in HER recent time mngr vid ?) : we often over estimate how long some daunting task will take : so we put it off. More often than not, they take far less time than we thought. Also : “5 minutes matters”. Sometimes we feel we can’t tackle something unless we have an entire afternoon for it. Or our perfectionism is paralyzing us. Little 5 min windows of time, or just making something BETTER ( not perfect) is so helpful ! Good luck ! From a fellow procrastinator !
@@lizzabbott thank you for the suggestions. I follow Dawn but not the other one. I'll check her out. You are right, perfectionism is most likely my biggest obstacle to getting over procrastination.
Love what you two shared about procrastination and perfectionism! :) Also, about the blanket, yes Lizzabbott is right, it was a Christmas present :) A friend of a friend made it, she's very talented :)
Hi Vera great tips I especially like the phone tray idea 😉 and also have been looking at meal planning I find it exhausting having to think about meals all the time ❤️
Glad to hear you found some helpful tips Therese, take care!! 🤗💕
@@SimpleHappyZen thanks Vera I’ve not been well I injured my back but hopefully in the mend now 🙏
I really enjoyed this video! 😊 Will definitely try out the phone tray! 🌿
Yay, let me know how you like it :)
Hi Vera, thank you so much for your incredible tips!! I will definitely try "a phone tray" one and "do i have to do this right now?" one. I hope they will make a nice change in my life.
By the way, I am so impressed that you read/have read "I am a cat" by Soseki Natsume!! He is one of my favorite writers:)
So happy you enjoyed this video and found some helpful tips in there for you to try out!! Yes I absolutely love Natsume Soseki :) I'm really enjoying I am a cat, and I've already read (and will re-read) Sanshiro, Kokoro and Botchan :)
@@SimpleHappyZen Thank you for your reply, Vera. Botchan and I am a cat are so fun to read. Speaking of Kokoro, It's not easy to understand the messages, so it's worth re-reading (I don't know how many times I've read Kokoro. In Japan, it's on so many textbooks for high school students)
I agree :) I'm sure I missed many details on my first read, so I'll make sure to read it again. I also love that Haruki Murakami (my favorite author) wrote a preface for Sanshiro. :)
@@SimpleHappyZen You make me want to re-read Soseki's novels, too!!
Vera I needed this today thanks for sharing 🙌
You're very welcome Deborah, take care and remember to be kind to yourself when you need it! 🤗🌷💕
@@SimpleHappyZen thanks Vera you are soooo intuitive you know just what to make a person feel better ❤️
This is SO incredibly helpful. THANK YOU
Happy to hear it! You're very welcome 😄
Thanks Vera, I really needed that.
You're very welcome! :)
Hello Miss. Nice to meet you
Such great tips. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Thank you!! :) Happy to hear it :)
One of your best videos ❤️❤️
Wow thank you Dani!! 💕⚘ Enjoy your day!
I feel the same about books , especially English books which needs to catch up. I have over stress about it . I decided to take care of myself with no pressure . I have a question , when you feel stress, over things ( CDs ) what will you do ?
When I feel stressed, I usually focus on taking a minute to focus on my breath. Slowly breathing in and out. Works like magic :)
@@SimpleHappyZen that’s great 🙏🙏thank you for your reply ! Have a good day from Japan 🇯🇵
Another inspirational video,Vera👍
Thank you so much! Enjoy your day 💕🌿🌱
You're such an inspiration 💛
Thank you so much Lidiane 🤗🌿🌾
@@SimpleHappyZen No problem 😊☺💓
Good points to be thought upon thnxx 💕💕
Thank you! :)
Excellent! Very helpful.
Happy to hear it! Thanks Gloria, enjoy your day! 💕🌿
Great Vera madam.... It's a 10 out of 10 video... Nicely design and correct observation.. 👍👍 enjoy moments 🎉🎉
Thank you so much, that's so nice to hear!! :) Have a nice day
Thanks💐🙏
Vera, I've just trawled through several of your videos, at random.
I've listened about minimalism, burn out, food choices, not to marry, choice not to have children,etc. I understood the values of your advise and comments which I feel cannot be challenged yet there is something that concerns me (worries me) I can't help but think is this level of self absorbance that healthy? There's conflict for me in the idea that everything is so well thought out and could be perceived as robotic. Its like working at being natural and uncluttered in mind and life style but actually the mind becoming cluttered and rigid with this mind set...unnatural?
I hope this makes sense. I know what I mean but I'm finding it hard to express.
Hi Ann! Thanks for sharing your thoughts. :) I understand what you mean by the mind becoming cluttered and rigid with a certain mindset. This is actually something we've recently discussed a bit on Patreon. I personally don't feel like this is the case in my life, and I often like to remind everyone that this is not an excuse to become a perfectionist in having everything be perfectly aligned and intentional. In the end, I'm pretty laid back about most of these things, they just happen out of a natural preference for keeping things simple. But this can be one of the pitfalls of simplifying and minimizing, and something to keep in mind :)
@@SimpleHappyZen Thank you Vera for your reply.
I suppose I could have simply said could this mindset become an angst. 😌🦋🏵️🍀🍁👌
There are some petitions to lawmakers to require phone makers to allow battery replacement, instead of having to buy a new phone when the battery is kaput, which forces some to upgrade when their phones are no longer available or repurchase.
Always like you❤️
Thank you so much! :)
Thank you for sharing! You're very pretty inside out. How did you learn to speak English with the American accent so well if I may ask?
Thank you so much Lidwina! :) Actually, being Dutch, I grew up hearing American English on tv and in movies. We don't dub things here (only subtitles) and most of the things I watched were American English. So most Dutch people are able to speak English pretty well :)