Hey you guys, I’d love to hear about how you simplify your life. Share your thoughts about minimalism and the things you no longer buy in the comments section! Pls LIKE and SUBSCRIBE if you haven't already. :-) Vera
Back in the 60’s & 70’s when our parents were raising a family of 7 kids & 2 adults, we never went hungry, always had a home, clothing, toys, TV, & lots of love & proper disciplining. Thinking now, I would never trade that. Simple, clean, honest, happy, wonderful & a childhood full of love, all the things that matter in life. It’s so tough today because there is so much to compete with & parents want to give their kids the world. Slow down, give your family what they need, not what they want because everyone else has it. Stop competing, it’s not worth it in the end. Your kids remember more the love & personal care, I promise you they will not remember the material things. God Bless & Good Luck.
I no longer buy cleaning products. To have a clean home all you need are these three things: vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda (bicarbonate of soda). For example, to easily remove difficult stains from clothing just rub some lemon juice on the stain before placing it in the washing machine. Vinegar is very effective for removing limescale from your toilet - just use it in the same way as limescale remover. And baking soda is a great all round household cleaner that also removes bad smells. It takes just a tiny amount of each of these products to do a great job.
Very sensible. I do not own a car, cell phone. I very rarely eat out. I seldom buy clothing and when I do usually at a thrift store except for underwear and shoes. Over the years I have acquired all the furniture, kitchen things, I will ever need. The last thing I bought was a book, out of print, used -- I REALLY wanted to read it! It was exciting to get it in the mail. No debt and a simple life is best.
Used clothing is hardly ever used up. Especially baby and fancy clothing for adults. I bought used clothing for my girls when they were little and it was fine and they always looked presentable fir church , school, or when ever. These could be used as play clothes, too.
You remind me of myself! I have decluttered and stopped buying things I don't really need. My husband and I were able to buy our first home as a result of it!
During the hot summers in Chicago, i always like to have ice coffee, but Starbucks is so expensive. However, I found several great videos online that showed how to make them at home.
Agree on the Fitbit. They're so popular and they're also worthless. They do not accurately measure your pulse. I borrowed one from a friend and it measured 84 bpm on my wrist. I measured 60 bpm with my watch.
I no longer have cable ..and I don"t buy new makeup unless I am replacing something that is used up ....I no longer buy bedding plants for the garden ..I cut back on garbage pickups by recycling and composting ...cut back on hair appointments ..never buy new books or magazines only get those second hand
How did I miss this? Thank you. Living less materialistically feels like like removing unnecessary burdens. Its physically, spiritually and mentally transforming. I wish my country would commit to more public transportation (esp in my state), but just taking steps to reduce expenditures by defining what I NEED versus WANT is helping me to transform my life. 🧘♂️ All the best to you.
You have great tips. Year before last I wasted $15,000 away. Thank didn’t realize it until looking back and now I could just kick myself thinking of all that money I could be saving.
My son and I think alike and very much...like You! When we moved,by coincidence,five years ago,we had to carry,starting from mother's dinnerware to her clothes,tonnes!She eats from the same plate and is dressed in the same clothes!The cassettes, CDs piling up in the corner of my husband's room, hasn't listened to them in ages! As to my shopping:the very moment I enter a shop,I know what I want.i , myself, used to draw up lists,now I mostly use a mental "list"...I gave away a lot of clothes,love what I got and use them. We use public transportation and I love to walk when the whether is fine. One thing I cannot give up: my books!They served me right during the years,also as teaching aids.I still look them up and read stories to my little neighbour,aged 7... And,when I think ,at first I wanted to write a two- word comment:"SMART GIRL"!!
Thank you so much for this video! I have been in an ongoing process of deaccessing for years now...although I still feel I have too much stuff. I was stuck for so long; when it came to really digging in and pitching things that no longer served me, I had *HUGE* resistance: so much so, that I finally let go, and accepted that I would wait until I was ready. I would refer to it as "The tyranny of stuff", but learned to become patient with myself. That day has finally come. I have grown so much; now I look at the things that I just couldn't let go of years before, and realized I'm no longer attached. The amount of energy/chi this has opened up in my life has been amazing! I have replaced some things (furniture, bedding) with beautiful new items that are simple, clean, and serene. Another thing I did was box up all of the clothes that I just couldn't part with yet, into storage boxes, because I've been known to throw stuff out in a fit, then regret it later. I'll revisit these items down the road, and if I feel no attachment, out they go. The main thing is, to not give up! One box at time, one box at a time... :) :) :)
Thank you so much for sharing your story, I think it's very inspiring and relatable to a lot of people. Keep it up, one box at a time and allow yourself all the time and space to do it in a way that suits you :-)
Everytime I have a date with my nieces or friends I prepare a picnic instead going to a place and pay for eating. I prepare natural juice, smoothies and sandwiches on the grass. Priceless!
Thanks for sharing your ideas for minimalist living. I got rid of my TV 5 years ago. I watch Netflix, Amazon Prime Videos and now have TH-cam TV that I can stream on my phone or laptop. Way cheaper and less a large object. I too dont go shopping unless I have a specific list of items to purchase. I do a major clean out my cupboards, closets, basement and garage 1x per year to make certain I purge things that are no longer being used. My rule is if I haven't used the item in 1 year it has to go. And I purge things prior to buying new not after. For example I got rid of all but one chair in my family room before I purchased anything new. The open space that was left behind intrigued me. So even though I have some new furnishings there is less than previously and the scale of the furniture is smaller. Just some ideas. Many thanks.
I no longer buy deodorant, toothpaste, body mosturizer, toner, face wash, because I make the products from scratch at home. I also no longer buy razor heads because I have a safety razor. Changing up these items in my life have changed my husband and I's life around. We have saved so much money. He approves of my minimalist and zero waste mentality.
Genina Tuason, I enjoyed your comment. I've been transitioning to a more minimalist and zero waste life myself. I love making my own products and I often find them better than those I buy in store. Safety razors rule!
I view my phone as a safety device. Also, to occupy my mind somewhat on long trips, etc.. Also , as timer and alarm. Granted we usually only replace 4-6 years. Only one phone stolen, 1 crapped out, 1 lost after being left on top of vehicle. Every other one went 4-6 or longer years. We have had cell phones since they came on market. For work, when it hardly did work, lol, and later for habit. We got rid of our landline because of all the crush of robocalls during dinnertime. So annoying, so we got rid of it. Understand in emergency landlines are better, but where our,-threats are Tornado-your landline blows away, nuke melt down, flee west, and gigantic earthquake, your landline not available anyhow or your cell. So really not an issue.
I have all my Ghibli movies in my little book shelf and I think they'll survive every declutter 😊 they bring me a lot of joy. I love bringing them out on chilly days to watch.
I love those movies too! Here in France we pronounce it Guee-bli with the G as in guy as opposed to how you pronounced it in the video. We get things wrong though, often, when it's from foreign countries. You mentioned you went to Japan, is it how they pronounce it there? Also Howls moving castle is my favorite too, I remember when it was released I went to see it in the theater three times - that literally happened with three movies in my entire life i never go back to re watch a movie! This video was great I agree with what you said. Will be checking your other videos!
Hi Sophie Stanculescu! In Japan they write スタジオジブリ (sutajio jiburi phonetically) which is why I always pronounce it this way, but it's a tricky one :-)
I too collect little magnets. Those are the things I get when I go somewhere. You are blessed to be young and living in a place where public transportation is all around and dependable. Many of us don't. Plus, older women and men cannot walk or ride bikes everywhere, we are just not physically able. We are doing well to walk around a grocery store.
Denisa Dellinger I'm very happy to be able to use public transportation :-) I realise not having a car is not realistic for lots of people. I'm just glad I don't have one right now :-)
My husband and I have been together for 15 years. For birthdays or anniversaries, we travel. No gifts! It works great for us, because we both get to experience a new destination rather than cluttering our home with things.
Wow! Thank you for this great video. I want to be a minimalist. I am getting rid of so much. My home has become cluttered with no space. Emotional problems and depression have played a big part. I have never given up and yes after 5 or more years of therapy I continue to move on.
I don’t get magnet, but I buy postcards that I like and put it in a shoebox. 😊 sometimes, I tag them on the wall as a decoration, sometimes I don’t. I wish I can live somewhere that I don’t need to own a car. You’re lucky for that. I like your video. It’s clear, clean cut and well thought out.
Thank you for the compliment vkk013, that's really kind! 😊 Yes I'm very lucky we have such great public transportation here, I realise not owning a car is not realistic for a lot of people. Have a great day!
Hi there! Great video, many thanks for your useful tricks Just a though I wanna share with you minimalist people reading: I recently gave up shower gel and use a soap bar instead. My shower used to be a true mess with 3 or 4 different shower gels (one had a nice smell, the second a nice color, the third had glitter, etc). Using a soap bar made my shower look more tidy and less cluttered, soap bars are much cheaper and in addition I am making an impact on the environment as I am not disposing of plastic bottles no more. And to be honest my skin feels absolutely fine! Try it out :)
I'm not a fan of shopping personally... but my family always give me gifts/stuff ... I'm really grateful for that... but now it seems that it has taken over my house. And most of them I didn't even use even once cause sometimes it's not my style... I used to cling to it for the memory and the love of the people that gave it to me... But now... I realize that I still love them even without their gift or their stuff in my home... So now I only keep gifts that I used/like and donate/sell the rest that I'm not fond of or used... It's really freeing... Thanks for ur video... It's very relaxing... I'm on my journey to live a simple life... and your video really helps... :)
One thing that keeps me minimalist is fulltiming with my husband in a 32-ft rv. I still love to look at bags and shoes and other goodies. But I have no place to keep them. Everything I have gets used. All my clothes have to mix and match. Much of what I have does 2 or 3 things. Maybe one day we will stop traveling and buy another house, but it won't be a big one. We have gotten use to not having a lot of clutter and only having to do minimal housework or maintenance.
Great advice. I generally don't buy random objects. I always consider the clutter, it will cause. The one lesson I need to learn is ridding old clothes, so that on the rare occasion that I buy new clothes, it isn't multiplying the contents of the home. I tend to wear my clothes until they can't be mended anymore, so I have a lot of old stuff in my closet that should be donated or perhaps even tossed.
I especially like the one about not buying gifts for anniversaries and wotnot. Spending time together and not stressing over gifts is a wonderful idea! How do you spell love?...T-I-M-E...right? I am totally on board with the minimalist way of life these days. Having too much junk clutters my mind. My motto is "less is more".
Thanks for this video. Like you, I used to love shopping and end up buying things on sale or things I don't really need. Now I don't subscribe on any magazine and newspapers. When my kids are young I used to collect DVD of all Disney movies. I stopped buying CD or any movies. I don't even go no more to the malls and if I go to the grocery I make sure I buy only what I will use like essentials. I still have so many things to decluter, do it one at a time. Your videos really inspired me a lot to get rid of the things I no longer use. I am not a minimalist but I like the idea of having less stuff now. Have a good day, keep it up ♥️♥️♥️ from Texas USA.... Jennifer
Great video! I am 71 and I shudder to think of the money I wasted on unnecessary trinkets and magazines! I remember moving boxes and boxes of heavy magazines once! It was awful! I no longer make impulse purchases...the more you control yourself, the easier it gets. And, I do not buy magazines. I use the photo trick, too! If I am reluctant to get rid of something I no longer need, I take a picture of it. That satisfies me at the moment and I find that I rarely miss the object enough to go back and look at the photos. Your space looks very lovely!
Great video! One comment (compliment?) I get often is that my house is very uncluttered. It comes out as "you should get more furniture". No thanks I say to myself!
I have a question. I want to be more minimalist. My life is very cluttered at the moment and it feels like there's a hole in my pocket draining a huge chunk of my income. I really want to get rid of a lot of things like clothes, shoes, makeup, furniture etc. Did you ever miss things that you got rid of? I have this strange fear that after I throw stuff away (or give it away) then I'll need it and might regret it later. It's really odd, I have this feeling for stuff that I haven't even used in months possibly years.
Thanks for sharing! You can do it 😊👍 I know what you mean. I think these two videos will really help you out. "Why is decluttering difficult + how to make it easy" goes into exactly that issue ( th-cam.com/video/uOw3s5C68VA/w-d-xo.html) and "Decluttering for beginners" will help you to get started with getting rid of stuff ( th-cam.com/video/uOw3s5C68VA/w-d-xo.html). Good luck with it!! 👋🏻
Great tips! I have been actively using up what I have. I have too many candles and beauty products to be buying more. I’m also decluttering items I don’t need and it keeps my house cleaner.
Use the library. I pin recipes to Pinterest. I make all my clothes. They are either knit or sewn. They fit properly but it isn't cheaper than RTW. I'm not filling a landfill or contributing to child labor so it's worth the trade off
I totally agree with you!! Simple living is all that matters!! I used to spend a lot of money on things I didn't actually need and when I decided to change my lifestyle, my whole life changed!! It feels so good when you are not hooked on things!!
No need to buy magazines at all. Public Libraries have them. In case items should be changed to "in case of emergency" in real life-72 hour emergency kit is worth the funds to put together. Really good tips. Thanks,
I have applied some of your ideas to minimalize things in my life already. Such as I don't have a car but I do have my license still and I borrow my daughter's car or her husband's car. I also live with them so I don't pay a lot of rent. This helps me too because I am retired. Enjoyed your video.
Hey Fera (not sure how to spell your name, sorry) love the channel. My main minimalism/simple living influences are Japaense culture, Zen Buddhism, and Stoicism, but I've been reading a bit about hygge and lagom lately and enjoying adding a bit of a Danish influence to soften the edges. Just a small tip from a native english speaker: You buy FEWER items. Think about it this way, its bad to drink less water, but good to buy fewer clothes. Fewer is used when talking about think you count (like items of clothing), and less is used for items you don't/can't count.
Thanks Robert! It's spelled Vera 😊 Yes I actually learned that this week from a friend who speaks English as her first language haha. I never really thought about it because in Dutch, the word is the same in both situations. I'll try to say it correctly from now on 🤗
Great lifestyle. Only buying what you need instead of what you want (or think you want) and then getting value for the money you do spend is a big winner. Congratulations!
Brand new subscriber to your channel. My dad was a pack rat (ok, hoarder); clutter stresses me out. I own few items of clothing, preferring basics (black slacks, print knit tops). My only two impulse buys were a set of dishes in the ‘80s (still love them), and my house (made an offer after seeing it once). My weakness is small heavy crystal objects (vases, glasses), which I purchase at consignment shops and thrift shops, never full price. I don’t buy “stuff”; I buy experiences (mainly concerts). I live at the library (greatest money saver ever). Now, if I could only get my SO and stepdtr into minimalism, or at least less clutter...
I agree about the exercise. I have some Leslie Sansone walking DVDs and I play them all the time. Like you I love to play tennis and there is nothing wrong with spending money hiring a court. It’s like going out for dinner, it’s enjoyable and does not clutter the house. Love your video and I have subscribed.
When I travel I use to collect fridge magnets as well but hated the clutter so now have pens which can be used . For me fridge magnets look too busy on the fridge.
Great advice, I am going to get started on minimizing things that I don't need or use. Thanks for the motivation to reevaluate & declutter the excess in my life.🙋 It promotes less stress and neater life style. Thank you so much for this message. I must change my impulse spending and learn to live a simplicity lifestyle.
I love flowers! But buying them at the supermarket is 1. Too expensive. 2. Too much fuel used to ship from South America to North America. 3. Probably grown with pesticides. So not even useful for composting when they fade. I love sunflowers so began to grow my own, but then could not bear to pick them because the native bees love them a lot too and need them more than me...
This make sense! I dont have any rules but i try not to buy double or things that are not used. Instead i use them until they are broken, clothes or kitchenware. And i try to avoid loans and creditcards
I like the way your thinking and living,we just limited our Christmas gifts to 3 each pet person,it wasn't as stressful & more fun!!! Also I keep a bag upstairs where I can fill it with our clothes we really don't need,use,to donate!!!!
i got rid of my cable tv,i haven't bought clothes in the last 3 years.my lil sister buys me clothes 2 a year from the thriftshop.i dont buy 💄,the makeup i have is minerals based.i make gifts for bdays.i dont eat out .i cook and entertain@home.i spend time cycling,exercising, and hanging out with friends.i have more 💰 for food,bills,transpotation left.i donate items to charities.books to the library.when i travel, i buy holistic products.perishable items.it gets easier with time.becoming a minimalist is less of a hassle than having to have things and be worried ,how am i going to pay for this?vacations are done in countries where i have family and friends.i traveled light and instead of buying things for family members ,i take them out to eat and i cook for them.they buy me ,body care organic products that i cant find in the USA. i dont need anything or want anything.im an artist so i design and make gifts for the holidays.
I think one should always give a cooling period after thought of buying a thing comes to mind. After some time you can have a more rational thinking about it.
Wow ! Found this video by accident, but what a wonderful way of life ! I relate to you on sooo many levels. I am in the midst of de-cluttering and simplifying my home (and life) as well to make room for more significant and meaningful EXPERIENCES (rather than things). I am going through my T-shirts - who knew I would acquire more than 100 of them ? Why does one person need this many ? I am going to pick 20 that I keep and wash and fold the rest to donate to charity. There are people amd places that don't have as much as we have and would greatly benefit from intact quality clothing. It is a WIN-WIN !!!
What are the two pieces of furniture you have in the background? Where are they from? They look very nice (clean lines, etc.) . I want to assume they're Ikea, but they may not be. Could you also please elaborate on replacing sims versus purchasing new phones? Sounds interesting. TY!
Hi there! 🤗 The furniture is from a Dutch store that's also Ikea-like, we bought them when we moved in here around 5 years ago and had to put them together ourselves. About the phone, I've been using the same one for years and only have a Sim-only service that I can quit anytime I want to and only costs a few euros a month. 😊 It can be a great deal if your phone still works, instead of getting a new one every year/ two years.
Live in the big wide Midwest with Mom 1.5 hours away etc Have to have vehicle. Furniture-Kitchen table-found by Dumpster 20 years ago, Dining table-Free, other table-Free, one credenza free, one half price. Bookcase Free, 3 lamp bought, all others free. Console-Free, Refrigerator Free, Freecycle, or Craigslist, being aware can get you lots of free things, even nice ones.
Good video. Soothing presentation. Especially agree with not having a car. Since I was 17, EVERYBODY told me that life is simply not possible without a car. I'm 50 now and still don't know even how to drive. And since turning 50 I've been trying to walk whenever I can, instead of taking a cab or public transport. And the docs say that my blood pressure and glucose readings are of a much younger person, but I am still fat and happy too. Only wish that there was not sooooo much traffic around everywhere.
Thanks so much Sweetie Fernandes, I loved to read your story! I also still don't know how to drive hihi. I hope you continue your walking and taking care of your health while still remaining happy! And I agree about the traffic haha :-)
Great tips! It is important to be mindful and evaluate what we really need in life. This video summarize quite a few I want to start living not only a minimalist life but also a zero waste one that will be good for the environment. Does anyone has tips to share on that?
Great video! The one thing I disagree with is the accessories - in my experience you get a lot more value out of higher quality stuff there. Don't buy a piece of fashion jewelry every few months, rather buy one piece from Cartier or Tiffany's that you can wear for the next 20 years. Don't buy a cheap fashion watch every 2 years - get a Rolex/Omega/Cartier/... once and wear it for the rest of your life. And even if you get bored by it they have a great resale value :)
Thanks for sharing Boros777!! I understand your reasoning :-) It can definitely work in more than one way like this! I mostly go for the middle option, I do spend enough to buy good quality that will last me years and years, but not so much that I'm buying the really expensive stuff. Have a great day!
I wait for most things...it's Always better to save for things and paying in cash is the smart way. Recently saved over 500 on a new bathroom I never buy things because they're popular enjoy spending with no limits when I am holiday as I work hard . Share with friend's something's I have no further use for.....and never buy clutter or dust gatherers I imagine what something would look like after being in my home after 2 months and if it's going to be a good long term item...thanks for the video...best idea I thought was take a pic of item and leave it for a couple of days 😁👍
I buy one souvenir that I can hang on the Christmas tree. That way I can bring them out every year and relive the memories without the clutter of having them sitting around on all my surfaces.
I do a lot of the things that you talk about in your video including not having a car. Another thing I also do, is when my sunscreen tubes no longer dispense the product, I open them up and scoop up the product and put it in a jar.
Its cool you can live without a car- you save about $9000-$10,000 @ year not owning a car according to Triple AAA! I need my car to get to work, I put only 4,000 miles on my car this year and only 4000 miles last year. Pleasant video.
Love your 15 tips and use them all. One thing I do is never leave home without a bottle of water and maybe pbnj sandwich so I don’t get caught looking for a place to eat.
Wonderful video. I've already implemented several of the things you mentioned. I moved into a new place a couple of months ago, moving boxes of movies, cds, cookbooks and other items that were already boxed since they were never unpacked from a move more than 4 yrs prior. I think I'll pull a few things that aren't available otherwise and arrange to have the boxes picked up by a local charity. Thanks for the tips. New subscriber
it is fine to buy less dvds or cds or just get them from the library, a flee market, share it, borough it from a friend or you pass your own old items on - totally offline. maybe make a digital copy offline, but to rely on netflix or other online resources!?!?! I don't feel comfortable with that at all. I know some younger people who love to live minimalist they don't want anything on hardcopies. no dvd, cd and no paper. doesn't matter, if it is a book or documents or flyers. that sounds good at first, but how to buy all these things anonymously? and if you have them, how to store that offline without leaving too many traces in 'the cloud' - or www. no matter how you call it. and the dependency on those providers? I don't trust that at all and I don't like that attitude that not only younger people have but also a lot of the older generation 'you have nothing to fear if you have nothing to hide'. what they don't comprehend is that kind of mentality was also behind the stalin regime and most of the communist inspired regimes. I have nothing against most of the ideas of marx. that is not the problem here. but as someone who studied sociology and philosophy and living in austria - always interested in the west-east systems and there problems in there societies and the problems for the individuals, I can only warn all of us. the end result of such thinking always culminate in a collective demand to 'undress' oneself infront of everybody. that might be no problem if mankind would have been evolved to a different kind of being. as this is not the case and is not in reach within the next generations, I would be very careful putting oneself out like this, even if it seems to be so harmless. a certain kind of privacy/anonymity is key for a self-determined living in a big family of people around you - the society. also, if you are in control of your own needs and demands, if you have a chance of posessing things, you are alse empowered to share that freely - the way you like. e.g. in your city, your urban neighborhood or your friends. for instance urban gardening is not possible, if people would not share, what they have. It might seem to be exaggerated - netflix vs buying-lending - but the thought behind this is - don't expose all your digitally available needs in the www. don't be so accessible to strangers. be accessible to those you can localize your self. also I have a major point regarding movies/films: is there a better experience than going to the cinema for those special movies in those small halls that are not overcrowded? you go alone in silence without distraction or with a friend and later talk about it immediately afterwards I mean? I don't care so much about big productions although there are some I like and watch in the cinema. but if I am not sure, if I even want to give it a try and the time passes, yes why not watch one or two as long as the two month subscription is on - but other than that - no! Not only I love going out and having a physical experience without all that eating and other distractions , I also love the idea of supporting local service institutions that employ people and pay taxes in my country even if the movie was produced somewhere else in the world. that is what I call global share and not all those big online players that extract producers with cheap prices, esp the small ones and then save more money by avoiding taxes with offshoring. No, that is no way I would like to go full minimalist and fell good about myself with that illusion of being all benign behind my walls at home PS:I also use netflix from time to time. I prolong the subscription with those netflix coupons - only when there is something new or in winter, when I would like to watch old series they have and that were too expensive for me or I don't watch so often like some series they don't even have available. And that tis my first critique on netflix. I thought that is how I can watch some movies, that are hard to get as dvd. but no. everything you can buy is on netflix. not one movie is unavailable offline. Also I couldn't find a reliable source to have access to those. so I depend on some legal/illegal uploads on youtube or my library (not everything is available in english there). netflix has a selection that only people would love and use extensively if in his/hers 20s and 30s may because if you are from a different area you cannot bare the style of most of the series. I personally only follow 4 rather 'new' ones and two of them a are old in fact. (apart from occasionally watching the old star trek etc). the movie selection. the reason why I got subscribed the first time was a series, they don't play till today. That was a big disapointment esp if someone doesn't have a tv and wants a wider range of classics - not a good alternative to libraries, flee markets and sharing used dvds etc
Thanks so much Fruitveganful Mart! Yes I totally understand it's not realistic for everyone, probably not for most 😊 So I'm very lucky with that ✌ Have a beautiful day!
That's great Vegan Monika, I think minimalism isn't about owning as few things as possible, it's about owning the right items. And only you can decide what they are for you 😊🌱 I love my small studio ghibli blu-ray collection
Good....a huge different between this and the videos with a woman sitting in her walk in closet with over 50 -75 pairs of shoes behind her. Some people love to buy things to show off. Which is sad. Thanks for sharing your video.
I love reading but stopped buying books. I borrow from the library or friends. I also make my own deodorant and household cleaning products. I stopped buying baked goods (cookies, cakes) and bake at home for special treats.
Hey you guys, I’d love to hear about how you simplify your life. Share your thoughts about minimalism and the things you no longer buy in the comments section! Pls LIKE and SUBSCRIBE if you haven't already. :-) Vera
Simple Happy Zen thank you I wrote all these down...1 by 1 I will try to implement them into my life
Wow what a big compliment :-) Thank you Marie! Much love from the Netherlands!!
You're right Jane J Dough! 🤗
Simple Happy Zen God I love you. Will you marry me?
Joe Heid Did you not listen to her video? She is in a long-term relationship. 😔
Back in the 60’s & 70’s when our parents were raising a family of 7 kids & 2 adults, we never went hungry, always had a home, clothing, toys, TV, & lots of love & proper disciplining. Thinking now, I would never trade that. Simple, clean, honest, happy, wonderful & a childhood full of love, all the things that matter in life. It’s so tough today because there is so much to compete with & parents want to give their kids the world. Slow down, give your family what they need, not what they want because everyone else has it. Stop competing, it’s not worth it in the end. Your kids remember more the love & personal care, I promise you they will not remember the material things. God Bless & Good Luck.
Iris Blog Amazing :-)
Iris Blog: you said it, Thumbs up!
Iris’s Statement ...you are so correct...
Iris , I agree with you. Your children will remember the times you spent with them and value that, more than things.
With the exception of you assuming parents don't discipline (teach for me) properly, your post is great.
My philosophy is love what you have and have what you love.
See Canon That's a great philosophy to live by!
See Canon the best is to: have what you love and love what you have
I no longer buy cleaning products. To have a clean home all you need are these three things: vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda (bicarbonate of soda). For example, to easily remove difficult stains from clothing just rub some lemon juice on the stain before placing it in the washing machine. Vinegar is very effective for removing limescale from your toilet - just use it in the same way as limescale remover. And baking soda is a great all round household cleaner that also removes bad smells. It takes just a tiny amount of each of these products to do a great job.
Sounds really interesting Bliss, thanks for sharing!
Bliss I'm in agreement. I would also add salt to the list. I use baking soda and salt to clean the kitchen sink.
Great
Very sensible. I do not own a car, cell phone. I very rarely eat out. I seldom buy clothing and when I do usually at a thrift store except for underwear and shoes. Over the years I have acquired all the furniture, kitchen things, I will ever need. The last thing I bought was a book, out of print, used -- I REALLY wanted to read it! It was exciting to get it in the mail. No debt and a simple life is best.
Thank you Mary Cahill! :-)
Mary Cahill Treat yourself some times Mary.x
Mary Cahill I like " simple liveing high think ing" !
Use it up, wear it out, make do or do without.
angelroost 😁✌
Used clothing is hardly ever used up. Especially baby and fancy clothing for adults. I bought used clothing for my girls when they were little and it was fine and they always looked presentable fir church , school, or when ever. These could be used as play clothes, too.
You are such a calm and relaxed TH-camr. I like the way you speak with that low tone. :)
Thank you Shyam Prasad, just being myself :-)
Shyam Prasad agreed
You remind me of myself! I have decluttered and stopped buying things I don't really need. My husband and I were able to buy our first home as a result of it!
R L Oh wow that's great! 🤗
R what a good trade off...congrats!
Congratulations so happy for you:)
Super. Way to go.
During the hot summers in Chicago, i always like to have ice coffee, but Starbucks is so expensive. However, I found several great videos online that showed how to make them at home.
Ice coffee is the best, and really easy to make yourself :-)
Agree on the Fitbit. They're so popular and they're also worthless.
They do not accurately measure your pulse. I borrowed one from a friend and it measured 84 bpm on my wrist. I measured 60 bpm with my watch.
No anniversary gifts for us either. Instead we go for a weekend trip nearby...making more memories.
Onosuya Choudhury Thanks for sharing! Making more memories is the best, isn't it? :-) xo
Onosuya Choudhury exactly
Onosuya Choudhury staying single has saved me. Mad money and headache medication. Lol. Kidding
I mean, not to be nitpicky, but a trip is a gift !!
So true!!!
I no longer have cable ..and I don"t buy new makeup unless I am replacing something that is used up ....I no longer buy bedding plants for the garden ..I cut back on garbage pickups by recycling and composting ...cut back on hair appointments ..never buy new books or magazines only get those second hand
Great tips theuniplex! 🤗
I have stopped buying makeup & products and candles and am using up what I have which is plenty.
MsViolettEyes That's a great one, to use up what you have before buying something new. :-)
I no longer buy as many cosmetics. Using only DIY facial oils and honey has not only saved me money, but given me the greatest skin I ever had!
Wow that's great l0ramai! I actually use very few skincare products myself... :-)
l0ramai 😊😊👌🏼👌🏼
@@SimpleHappyZen yes
Great
How did I miss this? Thank you. Living less materialistically feels like like removing unnecessary burdens. Its physically, spiritually and mentally transforming. I wish my country would commit to more public transportation (esp in my state), but just taking steps to reduce expenditures by defining what I NEED versus WANT is helping me to transform my life. 🧘♂️
All the best to you.
Thanks for sharing Shawn, I don't know how you missed it haha but I'm glad you're here!
You have great tips. Year before last I wasted $15,000 away. Thank didn’t realize it until looking back and now I could just kick myself thinking of all that money I could be saving.
Thanks Melissa! :-) Just look at it this way, you learned a valuable lesson, right :-) xo Vera
My son and I think alike and very much...like You!
When we moved,by coincidence,five years ago,we had to carry,starting from mother's dinnerware to her clothes,tonnes!She eats from the same plate and is dressed in the same clothes!The cassettes, CDs piling up in the corner of my husband's room, hasn't listened to them in ages!
As to my shopping:the very moment I enter a shop,I know what I want.i , myself, used to draw up lists,now I mostly use a mental "list"...I gave away a lot of clothes,love what I got and use them.
We use public transportation and I love to walk when the whether is fine. One thing I cannot give up: my books!They served me right during the years,also as teaching aids.I still look them up and read stories to my little neighbour,aged 7...
And,when I think ,at first I wanted to write a two- word comment:"SMART GIRL"!!
Thanks so much for sharing Beatrice Peter and for your compliment :-) xo Vera
Thank you so much for this video! I have been in an ongoing process of deaccessing for years now...although I still feel I have too much stuff. I was stuck for so long; when it came to really digging in and pitching things that no longer served me, I had *HUGE* resistance: so much so, that I finally let go, and accepted that I would wait until I was ready. I would refer to it as "The tyranny of stuff", but learned to become patient with myself.
That day has finally come. I have grown so much; now I look at the things that I just couldn't let go of years before, and realized I'm no longer attached. The amount of energy/chi this has opened up in my life has been amazing! I have replaced some things (furniture, bedding) with beautiful new items that are simple, clean, and serene. Another thing I did was box up all of the clothes that I just couldn't part with yet, into storage boxes, because I've been known to throw stuff out in a fit, then regret it later. I'll revisit these items down the road, and if I feel no attachment, out they go.
The main thing is, to not give up! One box at time, one box at a time... :) :) :)
Thank you so much for sharing your story, I think it's very inspiring and relatable to a lot of people. Keep it up, one box at a time and allow yourself all the time and space to do it in a way that suits you :-)
What helped me the most was a Change in Thinking. What do I Need..instead of..what do I Want. And in my case..but it is so Cute! my weakness
Thanks for sharing Kathleen! And yes, the cute struggle is real 😄
Very mature, level-headed suggestions presented in a harmonious and thoughtful manner. Thank you.
Thanks so much John Panozzo, that's really kind!
Everytime I have a date with my nieces or friends I prepare a picnic instead going to a place and pay for eating. I prepare natural juice, smoothies and sandwiches on the grass. Priceless!
That's a really good idea Yas! 🌿🍓✌
Thanks for sharing your ideas for minimalist living.
I got rid of my TV 5 years ago. I watch Netflix, Amazon Prime Videos and now have TH-cam TV that I can stream on my phone or laptop. Way cheaper and less a large object. I too dont go shopping unless I have a specific list of items to purchase. I do a major clean out my cupboards, closets, basement and garage 1x per year to make certain I purge things that are no longer being used. My rule is if I haven't used the item in 1 year it has to go. And I purge things prior to buying new not after. For example I got rid of all but one chair in my family room before I purchased anything new. The open space that was left behind intrigued me. So even though I have some new furnishings there is less than previously and the scale of the furniture is smaller. Just some ideas. Many thanks.
Thanks for sharing Cheryl! ✌
I no longer buy deodorant, toothpaste, body mosturizer, toner, face wash, because I make the products from scratch at home. I also no longer buy razor heads because I have a safety razor. Changing up these items in my life have changed my husband and I's life around. We have saved so much money. He approves of my minimalist and zero waste mentality.
Genina Tuason, I enjoyed your comment. I've been transitioning to a more minimalist and zero waste life myself. I love making my own products and I often find them better than those I buy in store. Safety razors rule!
Amazing!! :-)
Please show us how you make them so we can too
And great for environment!👍👍👍
Stranger geninathelorax.wordpress.com/
I love everything you said, I do all that stuff, no car, no clutter, no loans. 10 year old phone, etc.
Thanks Larry, that's great! 😄
I agree about the cell phone. Too much money to get the latest phone that nowadays only lasts about 2 years, no matter how well you take care of it.
Live Laugh Love __MM That's true, seems like such a waste.. Thanks for sharing!! :-)
I no longer have a landline & use my mobile phone as my primary, it really makes my life easier!
I view my phone as a safety device. Also, to occupy my mind somewhat on long trips, etc.. Also , as timer and alarm. Granted we usually only replace 4-6 years. Only one phone stolen, 1 crapped out, 1 lost after being left on top of vehicle. Every other one went 4-6 or longer years. We have had cell phones since they came on market. For work, when it hardly did work, lol, and later for habit. We got rid of our landline because of all the crush of robocalls during dinnertime. So annoying, so we got rid of it. Understand in emergency landlines are better, but where our,-threats are Tornado-your landline blows away, nuke melt down, flee west, and gigantic earthquake, your landline not available anyhow or your cell. So really not an issue.
I have all my Ghibli movies in my little book shelf and I think they'll survive every declutter 😊 they bring me a lot of joy. I love bringing them out on chilly days to watch.
Andi Lynn Me too! :-) They're like magic haha. Which one's your favorite?
Simple Happy Zen I'd have to say Howls Moving Castle but it's a pretty tough choice! haha
Andi Lynn Haha I know! Howl's moving castle is really great :-) For me, maybe Mononoke hime.. 😍
I love those movies too! Here in France we pronounce it Guee-bli with the G as in guy as opposed to how you pronounced it in the video. We get things wrong though, often, when it's from foreign countries. You mentioned you went to Japan, is it how they pronounce it there? Also Howls moving castle is my favorite too, I remember when it was released I went to see it in the theater three times - that literally happened with three movies in my entire life i never go back to re watch a movie! This video was great I agree with what you said. Will be checking your other videos!
Hi Sophie Stanculescu! In Japan they write スタジオジブリ (sutajio jiburi phonetically) which is why I always pronounce it this way, but it's a tricky one :-)
I use coconut oil for all my moisturizing needs. I stopped buying expensive lotions.
Me too
I too collect little magnets. Those are the things I get when I go somewhere. You are blessed to be young and living in a place where public transportation is all around and dependable. Many of us don't. Plus, older women and men cannot walk or ride bikes everywhere, we are just not physically able. We are doing well to walk around a grocery store.
Denisa Dellinger I'm very happy to be able to use public transportation :-) I realise not having a car is not realistic for lots of people. I'm just glad I don't have one right now :-)
I cycle and walk everywhere, my children do too. I love to feel the breeze on my face. It makes me feel alive.
And it's healthy! ✌😄
I do that in Miami great for weight loss. Lol.
My husband and I have been together for 15 years. For birthdays or anniversaries, we travel. No gifts! It works great for us, because we both get to experience a new destination rather than cluttering our home with things.
I love that!
Wow! Thank you for this great video. I want to be a minimalist. I am getting rid of so much. My home has become cluttered with no space. Emotional problems and depression have played a big part. I have never given up and yes after 5 or more years of therapy I continue to move on.
You can do it HelenaOfAvalor 🤗
I don’t get magnet, but I buy postcards that I like and put it in a shoebox. 😊 sometimes, I tag them on the wall as a decoration, sometimes I don’t.
I wish I can live somewhere that I don’t need to own a car. You’re lucky for that.
I like your video. It’s clear, clean cut and well thought out.
Thank you for the compliment vkk013, that's really kind! 😊 Yes I'm very lucky we have such great public transportation here, I realise not owning a car is not realistic for a lot of people. Have a great day!
What an incredibly wise way to live your life! Thank you for the inspiration!
Thanks so much Jean-Francois, that's really sweet!
Hi there! Great video, many thanks for your useful tricks
Just a though I wanna share with you minimalist people reading: I recently gave up shower gel and use a soap bar instead. My shower used to be a true mess with 3 or 4 different shower gels (one had a nice smell, the second a nice color, the third had glitter, etc). Using a soap bar made my shower look more tidy and less cluttered, soap bars are much cheaper and in addition I am making an impact on the environment as I am not disposing of plastic bottles no more.
And to be honest my skin feels absolutely fine!
Try it out :)
dlynch 82 Thanks for sharing, good tip :-) Are you a David Lynch fan?
Big fan
xxx
I absolutely agree. Soap bars last forever!
What kind of soap bars do you buy that last forever? I buy Dove and recycle the little box it comes in but I'd say it last a week to 10 days at most.
I've been using ivory bars since childhood. Thanks to grandma. They last forever and it's gentle on the skin
I'm not a fan of shopping personally... but my family always give me gifts/stuff ... I'm really grateful for that... but now it seems that it has taken over my house. And most of them I didn't even use even once cause sometimes it's not my style... I used to cling to it for the memory and the love of the people that gave it to me...
But now... I realize that I still love them even without their gift or their stuff in my home... So now I only keep gifts that I used/like and donate/sell the rest that I'm not fond of or used... It's really freeing...
Thanks for ur video... It's very relaxing... I'm on my journey to live a simple life... and your video really helps... :)
Thanks and thanks for sharing your thoughts! :)
One thing that keeps me minimalist is fulltiming with my husband in a 32-ft rv. I still love to look at bags and shoes and other goodies. But I have no place to keep them. Everything I have gets used. All my clothes have to mix and match. Much of what I have does 2 or 3 things. Maybe one day we will stop traveling and buy another house, but it won't be a big one. We have gotten use to not having a lot of clutter and only having to do minimal housework or maintenance.
Very inspiring Jean on the Road!
Great advice. I generally don't buy random objects. I always consider the clutter, it will cause. The one lesson I need to learn is ridding old clothes, so that on the rare occasion that I buy new clothes, it isn't multiplying the contents of the home. I tend to wear my clothes until they can't be mended anymore, so I have a lot of old stuff in my closet that should be donated or perhaps even tossed.
Hi Amethyst Rabbit, thanks for commenting! Maybe try the konmari method for your wardrobe? Only keep the items that spark joy :-)
Simple Happy Zen that's a good idea. Ty
Amethyst Rabbit ✌
That was a really good tip about rearranging furniture and things if you start to feel dissatisfied with them. Thanks for suggesting that! :))
Thanks Alexandra! 😄👍🏻
Wonderful ideas for a minimalistic and mindful life. Not to spend money to useless things
Thanks so much :)
Great ideas for saving money, cutting out unnecessary clutter and simplifying life in general - some of which I already follow.
Thanks a lot Livvy! 🤗
I especially like the one about not buying gifts for anniversaries and wotnot. Spending time together and not stressing over gifts is a wonderful idea! How do you spell love?...T-I-M-E...right? I am totally on board with the minimalist way of life these days. Having too much junk clutters my mind. My motto is "less is more".
sheshewells thanks, that's so right! 😊
Thanks for this video. Like you, I used to love shopping and end up buying things on sale or things I don't really need. Now I don't subscribe on any magazine and newspapers. When my kids are young I used to collect DVD of all Disney movies. I stopped buying CD or any movies. I don't even go no more to the malls and if I go to the grocery I make sure I buy only what I will use like essentials. I still have so many things to decluter, do it one at a time. Your videos really inspired me a lot to get rid of the things I no longer use. I am not a minimalist but I like the idea of having less stuff now. Have a good day, keep it up ♥️♥️♥️ from Texas USA.... Jennifer
Thanks so much for sharing Jennifer :) You're doing great and I'm glad my videos are helping you on your journey :)
Great video! I am 71 and I shudder to think of the money I wasted on unnecessary trinkets and magazines! I remember moving boxes and boxes of heavy magazines once! It was awful! I no longer make impulse purchases...the more you control yourself, the easier it gets. And, I do not buy magazines. I use the photo trick, too! If I am reluctant to get rid of something I no longer need, I take a picture of it. That satisfies me at the moment and I find that I rarely miss the object enough to go back and look at the photos. Your space looks very lovely!
Thanks so much Mary 🙂
Great video! One comment (compliment?) I get often is that my house is very uncluttered. It comes out as "you should get more furniture". No thanks I say to myself!
I have a question. I want to be more minimalist. My life is very cluttered at the moment and it feels like there's a hole in my pocket draining a huge chunk of my income. I really want to get rid of a lot of things like clothes, shoes, makeup, furniture etc. Did you ever miss things that you got rid of? I have this strange fear that after I throw stuff away (or give it away) then I'll need it and might regret it later. It's really odd, I have this feeling for stuff that I haven't even used in months possibly years.
Thanks for sharing! You can do it 😊👍 I know what you mean. I think these two videos will really help you out. "Why is decluttering difficult + how to make it easy" goes into exactly that issue ( th-cam.com/video/uOw3s5C68VA/w-d-xo.html) and "Decluttering for beginners" will help you to get started with getting rid of stuff ( th-cam.com/video/uOw3s5C68VA/w-d-xo.html). Good luck with it!! 👋🏻
O
No I never missed anything . Do it 💃
Great tips! I have been actively using up what I have. I have too many candles and beauty products to be buying more. I’m also decluttering items I don’t need and it keeps my house cleaner.
Thanks Claire Stalnaker! Using up stuff is a great way to make everything simpler
Use the library. I pin recipes to Pinterest. I make all my clothes. They are either knit or sewn. They fit properly but it isn't cheaper than RTW. I'm not filling a landfill or contributing to child labor so it's worth the trade off
That's very commendable Pat Archer! Thanks for sharing 🌿
I totally agree with you!! Simple living is all that matters!! I used to spend a lot of money on things I didn't actually need and when I decided to change my lifestyle, my whole life changed!! It feels so good when you are not hooked on things!!
Thanks for sharing Victoria!! 😄 That's great 🍃🌾
No need to buy magazines at all. Public Libraries have them. In case items should be changed to "in case of emergency" in real life-72 hour emergency kit is worth the funds to put together. Really good tips. Thanks,
Thanks Donna M, that's true!!
Fourteen out the Fifteen things you mention...I have applied in my life. Awesome!
You rock Camille Fox!!
I have applied some of your ideas to minimalize things in my life already. Such as I don't have a car but I do have my license still and I borrow my daughter's car or her husband's car. I also live with them so I don't pay a lot of rent. This helps me too because I am retired. Enjoyed your video.
Thanks Anita Acosta :-)
I agree with you! We can all learn these things and be more peaceful in our lives! Things do not make us happiest, it is people! Thank you! Subbed!🥀🥀🥀
Thank you Arthuria Rossi II For me too, love for the people around us is the most important thing. :-) xo
Arthuria Rossi II she must live in Europe mass transit. ..
in America only nyc and Chicago and maybe SF can u get by without a car
Philly has a very good public transit system. Don't need a car there.
Hey Fera (not sure how to spell your name, sorry) love the channel. My main minimalism/simple living influences are Japaense culture, Zen Buddhism, and Stoicism, but I've been reading a bit about hygge and lagom lately and enjoying adding a bit of a Danish influence to soften the edges. Just a small tip from a native english speaker: You buy FEWER items. Think about it this way, its bad to drink less water, but good to buy fewer clothes. Fewer is used when talking about think you count (like items of clothing), and less is used for items you don't/can't count.
Thanks Robert! It's spelled Vera 😊 Yes I actually learned that this week from a friend who speaks English as her first language haha. I never really thought about it because in Dutch, the word is the same in both situations. I'll try to say it correctly from now on 🤗
Great lifestyle. Only buying what you need instead of what you want (or think you want) and then getting value for the money you do spend is a big winner. Congratulations!
Thank you Barney :-)
Brand new subscriber to your channel.
My dad was a pack rat (ok, hoarder); clutter stresses me out. I own few items of clothing, preferring basics (black slacks, print knit tops). My only two impulse buys were a set of dishes in the ‘80s (still love them), and my house (made an offer after seeing it once). My weakness is small heavy crystal objects (vases, glasses), which I purchase at consignment shops and thrift shops, never full price. I don’t buy “stuff”; I buy experiences (mainly concerts). I live at the library (greatest money saver ever). Now, if I could only get my SO and stepdtr into minimalism, or at least less clutter...
Thanks so much for sharing Lee Kaplan !! Buying experiences is the best 🤗
I don't eat food anymore, Saves a ton of money. No Just kidding. Good video, good choices. Thanks for sharing.
Captain Everything Hehe I'm happy you we're kidding 😉
I love your approach to popular/trendy gadgets (“would I still buy it if it wasn’t popular/if I didn’t see if everywhere?). Super helpful
Great awonderfulillusion, thanks :-)
I agree about the exercise. I have some Leslie Sansone walking DVDs and I play them all the time. Like you I love to play tennis and there is nothing wrong with spending money hiring a court. It’s like going out for dinner, it’s enjoyable and does not clutter the house. Love your video and I have subscribed.
Hi Leanne, and welcome! :-) I feel the same way about hiring a tenniscourt every now and then.
When I travel I use to collect fridge magnets as well but hated the clutter so now have pens which can be used . For me fridge magnets look too busy on the fridge.
Yes that's also a great idea BL l! Really clever 😊
my nana always said "use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without" :)
Wise grandma Jennifer Webb :-) I also love that old people still fix their socks when they have a hole in it 😄
I 💚 your accent. I could listen all day.
Haha that's so sweet, thanks 😊
Great advice, I am going to get started on minimizing things that I don't need or use. Thanks for the motivation to reevaluate & declutter the excess in my life.🙋 It promotes less stress and neater life style. Thank you so much for this message. I must change my impulse spending and learn to live a simplicity lifestyle.
You're more than welcome Debbie Bloodworth, thanks for sharing! 🤗
I love flowers! But buying them at the supermarket is 1. Too expensive. 2. Too much fuel used to ship from South America to North America. 3. Probably grown with pesticides. So not even useful for composting when they fade.
I love sunflowers so began to grow my own, but then could not bear to pick them because the native bees love them a lot too and need them more than me...
I can relate Nancy Kelly. And sunflowers are so beautiful! 🌻
Thank you for this. You've put across a very important point in the nicest possible way. Bless you
That's really sweet Angelica Chandrasekeran, thank you :-)
This make sense! I dont have any rules but i try not to buy double or things that are not used. Instead i use them until they are broken, clothes or kitchenware. And i try to avoid loans and creditcards
I like the way your thinking and living,we just limited our Christmas gifts to 3 each pet person,it wasn't as stressful & more fun!!! Also I keep a bag upstairs where I can fill it with our clothes we really don't need,use,to donate!!!!
Thanks for sharing Deb A and you're right, the less is more style is often a lot more relaxing and fun! :-)
You make a good point that you think, I can use this item someday but really that day will never come.
Thanks Angela Kernell 🤗 It often works out that way I think :-)
Hi from Greece Athens recently decluttered a lot stopped buying in general mostly clothes books
Hi anthoula tasioudi, thanks for sharing!! 🌞
Great idea about taking a picture.
I am not a fan of shopping, it is overwhelming. However, Thrift stores..🤗🤗
I get what you are saying!
Hahahaha yes the struggle is real :D
Yes I agree 😊
Thanks Jackie Pacer 😄
i got rid of my cable tv,i haven't bought clothes in the last 3 years.my lil sister buys me clothes 2 a year from the thriftshop.i dont buy 💄,the makeup i have is minerals based.i make gifts for bdays.i dont eat out .i cook and entertain@home.i spend time cycling,exercising, and hanging out with friends.i have more 💰 for food,bills,transpotation left.i donate items to charities.books to the library.when i travel, i buy holistic products.perishable items.it gets easier with time.becoming a minimalist is less of a hassle than having to have things and be worried ,how am i going to pay for this?vacations are done in countries where i have family and friends.i traveled light and instead of buying things for family members ,i take them out to eat and i cook for them.they buy me ,body care organic products that i cant find in the USA. i dont need anything or want anything.im an artist so i design and make gifts for the holidays.
Thanks for sharing Gia Desplas!🌿
I think one should always give a cooling period after thought of buying a thing comes to mind. After some time you can have a more rational thinking about it.
Yes I completely agree :)
Wow ! Found this video by accident, but what a wonderful way of life ! I relate to you on sooo many levels. I am in the midst of de-cluttering and simplifying my home (and life) as well to make room for more significant and meaningful EXPERIENCES (rather than things). I am going through my T-shirts - who knew I would acquire more than 100 of them ? Why does one person need this many ? I am going to pick 20 that I keep and wash and fold the rest to donate to charity. There are people amd places that don't have as much as we have and would greatly benefit from intact quality clothing. It is a WIN-WIN !!!
Thanks so much for sharing Samantha Brewster, I'm glad you're here! ✌🌱 Great job with the clothing!
I like studio Ghibli movies very much, too, and so does my son. They are amazing, and are really pieces of art.
Newcastle I know right?! :-) They're beautiful 😍
What are the two pieces of furniture you have in the background? Where are they from? They look very nice (clean lines, etc.) . I want to assume they're Ikea, but they may not be. Could you also please elaborate on replacing sims versus purchasing new phones? Sounds interesting. TY!
Hi there! 🤗 The furniture is from a Dutch store that's also Ikea-like, we bought them when we moved in here around 5 years ago and had to put them together ourselves. About the phone, I've been using the same one for years and only have a Sim-only service that I can quit anytime I want to and only costs a few euros a month. 😊 It can be a great deal if your phone still works, instead of getting a new one every year/ two years.
Live in the big wide Midwest with Mom 1.5 hours away etc Have to have vehicle. Furniture-Kitchen table-found by Dumpster 20 years ago, Dining table-Free, other table-Free, one credenza free, one half price. Bookcase Free, 3 lamp bought, all others free. Console-Free, Refrigerator Free, Freecycle, or Craigslist, being aware can get you lots of free things, even nice ones.
Rhetta Jack Wow yes I see that! 😮
Good video. Soothing presentation. Especially agree with not having a car. Since I was 17, EVERYBODY told me that life is simply not possible without a car. I'm 50 now and still don't know even how to drive. And since turning 50 I've been trying to walk whenever I can, instead of taking a cab or public transport. And the docs say that my blood pressure and glucose readings are of a much younger person, but I am still fat and happy too. Only wish that there was not sooooo much traffic around everywhere.
Thanks so much Sweetie Fernandes, I loved to read your story! I also still don't know how to drive hihi. I hope you continue your walking and taking care of your health while still remaining happy! And I agree about the traffic haha :-)
Great tips! It is important to be mindful and evaluate what we really need in life. This video summarize quite a few
I want to start living not only a minimalist life but also a zero waste one that will be good for the environment. Does anyone has tips to share on that?
Hi Sharen Lin, thanks for sharing! Maybe The girl gone green, she has many videos about zero waste :-)
Love your channel ❤️ keep up the great content !
Thanks!!! I will 😄
Great video!
The one thing I disagree with is the accessories - in my experience you get a lot more value out of higher quality stuff there. Don't buy a piece of fashion jewelry every few months, rather buy one piece from Cartier or Tiffany's that you can wear for the next 20 years. Don't buy a cheap fashion watch every 2 years - get a Rolex/Omega/Cartier/... once and wear it for the rest of your life. And even if you get bored by it they have a great resale value :)
Thanks for sharing Boros777!! I understand your reasoning :-) It can definitely work in more than one way like this! I mostly go for the middle option, I do spend enough to buy good quality that will last me years and years, but not so much that I'm buying the really expensive stuff. Have a great day!
I wait for most things...it's Always better to save for things and paying in cash is the smart way. Recently saved over 500 on a new bathroom I never buy things because they're popular enjoy spending with no limits when I am holiday as I work hard . Share with friend's something's I have no further use for.....and never buy clutter or dust gatherers I imagine what something would look like after being in my home after 2 months and if it's going to be a good long term item...thanks for the video...best idea I thought was take a pic of item and leave it for a couple of days 😁👍
Thanks for sharing your story Peter Chandler!
I buy one souvenir that I can hang on the Christmas tree. That way I can bring them out every year and relive the memories without the clutter of having them sitting around on all my surfaces.
Ooh that's also a good one!!
I do a lot of the things that you talk about in your video including not having a car. Another thing I also do, is when my sunscreen tubes no longer dispense the product, I open them up and scoop up the product and put it in a jar.
Love your videos and your voice. Great advice as well! Love and hugs xxxx
Thank you so much Linda, that's very sweet of you :) Enjoy your day!
no longer have a tv, therefore no longer have a $200 cable bill
Thanks for sharing R. Ann Rousseau!
Great save!!
Its cool you can live without a car- you save about $9000-$10,000 @ year not owning a car according to Triple AAA! I need my car to get to work, I put only 4,000 miles on my car this year and only 4000 miles last year. Pleasant video.
Thanks Ditching The Grind 3!! 😊 Wow, that's a lot of money 😮 I know it's not a realistic option for lots of people though. Thanks for sharing!
Agreed, Studio Ghibli dvds are essential to have on hand. 🙂⭐️🙌
HibiscusHigh Hahaha yes! And great Nausicaa avatar! :-)
I haven’t bought one item of clothing this summer!
Wow, great achievement Beth Johnstone!
Love your 15 tips and use them all. One thing I do is never leave home without a bottle of water and maybe pbnj sandwich so I don’t get caught looking for a place to eat.
Wonderful video. I've already implemented several of the things you mentioned. I moved into a new place a couple of months ago, moving boxes of movies, cds, cookbooks and other items that were already boxed since they were never unpacked from a move more than 4 yrs prior. I think I'll pull a few things that aren't available otherwise and arrange to have the boxes picked up by a local charity. Thanks for the tips. New subscriber
Thanks so much Thom, and welcome!! 🤗🤗 Having the boxes picked up by charity is a lovely idea, and probably a great feeling.
lovely video, vera.
loved the background music too. happy 2020
Thank you Julia, happy 2020 to you as well! :)
it is fine to buy less dvds or cds or just get them from the library, a flee market, share it, borough it from a friend or you pass your own old items on - totally offline. maybe make a digital copy offline, but to rely on netflix or other online resources!?!?! I don't feel comfortable with that at all.
I know some younger people who love to live minimalist they don't want anything on hardcopies. no dvd, cd and no paper. doesn't matter, if it is a book or documents or flyers. that sounds good at first, but how to buy all these things anonymously? and if you have them, how to store that offline without leaving too many traces in 'the cloud' - or www. no matter how you call it. and the dependency on those providers? I don't trust that at all and I don't like that attitude that not only younger people have but also a lot of the older generation 'you have nothing to fear if you have nothing to hide'. what they don't comprehend is that kind of mentality was also behind the stalin regime and most of the communist inspired regimes. I have nothing against most of the ideas of marx. that is not the problem here. but as someone who studied sociology and philosophy and living in austria - always interested in the west-east systems and there problems in there societies and the problems for the individuals, I can only warn all of us. the end result of such thinking always culminate in a collective demand to 'undress' oneself infront of everybody. that might be no problem if mankind would have been evolved to a different kind of being. as this is not the case and is not in reach within the next generations, I would be very careful putting oneself out like this, even if it seems to be so harmless. a certain kind of privacy/anonymity is key for a self-determined living in a big family of people around you - the society. also, if you are in control of your own needs and demands, if you have a chance of posessing things, you are alse empowered to share that freely - the way you like. e.g. in your city, your urban neighborhood or your friends. for instance urban gardening is not possible, if people would not share, what they have. It might seem to be exaggerated - netflix vs buying-lending - but the thought behind this is - don't expose all your digitally available needs in the www. don't be so accessible to strangers. be accessible to those you can localize your self.
also I have a major point regarding movies/films: is there a better experience than going to the cinema for those special movies in those small halls that are not overcrowded? you go alone in silence without distraction or with a friend and later talk about it immediately afterwards I mean? I don't care so much about big productions although there are some I like and watch in the cinema. but if I am not sure, if I even want to give it a try and the time passes, yes why not watch one or two as long as the two month subscription is on - but other than that - no! Not only I love going out and having a physical experience without all that eating and other distractions ,
I also love the idea of supporting local service institutions that employ people and pay taxes in my country even if the movie was produced somewhere else in the world. that is what I call global share and not all those big online players that extract producers with cheap prices, esp the small ones and then save more money by avoiding taxes with offshoring. No, that is no way I would like to go full minimalist and fell good about myself with that illusion of being all benign behind my walls at home
PS:I also use netflix from time to time. I prolong the subscription with those netflix coupons - only when there is something new or in winter, when I would like to watch old series they have and that were too expensive for me or I don't watch so often like some series they don't even have available. And that tis my first critique on netflix. I thought that is how I can watch some movies, that are hard to get as dvd. but no. everything you can buy is on netflix. not one movie is unavailable offline. Also I couldn't find a reliable source to have access to those. so I depend on some legal/illegal uploads on youtube or my library (not everything is available in english there). netflix has a selection that only people would love and use extensively if in his/hers 20s and 30s may because if you are from a different area you cannot bare the style of most of the series. I personally only follow 4 rather 'new' ones and two of them a are old in fact. (apart from occasionally watching the old star trek etc). the movie selection. the reason why I got subscribed the first time was a series, they don't play till today. That was a big disapointment
esp if someone doesn't have a tv and wants a wider range of classics - not a good alternative to libraries, flee markets and sharing used dvds etc
Love all of these. Unfortunately, in South Florida not having a car is impossible. 😔
Thanks so much Fruitveganful Mart! Yes I totally understand it's not realistic for everyone, probably not for most 😊 So I'm very lucky with that ✌ Have a beautiful day!
Yay studio ghibli!! 😍😍😍 I feel the same about the phones.
Haha Studio Ghibli is the best :D
I’m all for minimalism but I collect DVDs . I love DVDs and there’s nothing like the smell of a brand new book.
That's great Vegan Monika, I think minimalism isn't about owning as few things as possible, it's about owning the right items. And only you can decide what they are for you 😊🌱 I love my small studio ghibli blu-ray collection
Good....a huge different between this and the videos with a woman sitting in her walk in closet with over 50 -75 pairs of shoes behind her.
Some people love to buy things to show off. Which is sad. Thanks for sharing your video.
Thanks Hannah!!
Thank you!
You're welcome Carol!!
Wise lady. Great advice. Thank you
Thank you Soraya Ahmad that's really kind 😊
I love reading but stopped buying books. I borrow from the library or friends. I also make my own deodorant and household cleaning products. I stopped buying baked goods (cookies, cakes) and bake at home for special treats.
Ooh homemade baked goods 😄
marianne_a_la_maison smart
Welcome back Vera ❤️
Thank you Jan! Good to be back 🙂