I have been a minimalist for over 30 years. It ebbs and flows with life. My biggest takeaways are 1. You can always make home wherever you are. 2. You can always find the stuff you need. 3. My bank account thanks me and I didn't work high paying jobs. 4. Life is beautiful!
When I studied through the book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible. it changed my priorities and made me view life as it really is, not what this world says it should be. My life has never been better and I have never been happier🙌
Love your channel. I stopped working last November 2021. I had a rough year, losing my mom to Covid and working at a cancer center and losing so many people over the years. I now enjoy my simple life. I get up when I want, I enjoy a cup of coffee now. I have been running out the door all my life. I do not need much to be happy. I love cooking again, and taking walks. I can now be in the moment. Life is more valuable to me now. Thank you for all your inspiration.
I love your journey of self discovery! Sounds like you have worked so many years giving so much of yourself to others in need. Good for you for taking time for YOU. Happiness & peace
I like the fact that this journey has worked perfectly well for you and you're absolutely happy with it. I'm 35 now, and have lived my entire life as a minimalist. I somehow was born with that philosophy, and even as an adolescent, I remember being perplexed as I struggled understanding why my other siblings had closets full of clothes and shoes they hardly ever wore, while I only cared for what I abosutely needed. I therefore share quite some common beliefs with you, but seem to differ in one area; minimalism isn't opposed to wealth, success and or luxury of any kind. The way I see it, being a minimalist simply entails one's affinity of living life with just the basics one needs. However, these basics could be expensive, classy and or luxurious for someone who enjoys such. I'm classy, love wealth, and work extremely hard at being successful even though I lead a minimalistic lifestyle. Results; a small apartment in a highend high end neighborhood, very few but brand new furniture in it, a small closet, but with my exact taste of fashion etc... So summarily, minimalism isn't necessarily the same thing as being frugal or living inexpensively. Nothing wrong with that, but those are completely different concepts backed by different philosophies of life I reckon.
Hi Gemoh, Thank you so much for sharing your story and perspective. I love how you said, "minimalism isn't opposite to wealth, success or luxury." Beautifully said! There is nothing wrong with having lovely, luxury items. I agree with you that, minimalism is about living with basic needs. Who said those needs can't be nice. I really appreciate your point of view. Sending you happiness & peace
Very well said. I agree whole heartedly. Growing up in a poor household; I now enjoy the finer things in life and live in a very nice condo. However, I do regular decluttering and love a high end sparse household and enjoy the wealth that we have accumulated meanwhile being aware everyday for what we have while still being frugal.
@@apheenaroebuck-webb3385 I agree. There's nothing wrong with having nice things but not be wasteful. I want to enjoy some things that I want and may not need.
I have been married for 42 years and I have been a minimalist before it was a "thing," but it has always made our lives and my family's lives so much happier!
As a "minalimistic person" I just sold a a 2017 motorcycle with 1 mile because I did not use or ever ride and I was making a payment every month plus insurance and the person who bought it absolutely LOVED and enjoyed IT...and as sad as it was to let it it go....it was the JOY to his life and we "both" benefited from it!!! Thank you!!! Kudos!!
I didn't ever plan on being a minimalist but it kinda ended up that way after moving to another country and only taking what I could carry in a few bags. I really love how simple it is only having what can fit into my wardrobe and I don't feel like I need anything more than that. My husband owns even less than I do and we're totally fine. We prefer to spend our time and money on fun trips with friends and family and enjoy those experiences instead of shopping for more stuff we don't need. 😊
I love your attitude. I realise I've been a minimilist in some ways for years. Your videos inspire me to incorporate more minimilist ways into my life. Thank you.
I am moving for the third time in the last 5 years and do have the various sizes of ear bud inserts on my dining table. Ugh! I don’t like to throw things away but believe your message was what I needed to hear. Thank you 🙏🏻
Love how far you came. We recently did a big clean up again. My husband making a new shift. So happy with. My most stuff is creative stuff. Loving to make art. The other one is books. I did many away, but lately buying more books than books that leave the house. I feel it makes me a bit tense, because I have not enough time. Unwilling to let go of something. Searching for a balance now.
I love and believe in what you say so much! Thanks for sharing you are such an inspiration. We have been duped into believing this fancy lifestyle is what life is all about. Namaste sister!
I am minimalist since i remember myself i only want the necessary. Even in my skin care. A serum znd a cream. A jeans and two other clothes. Three nice dresses. I have confidence and think i am pretty enough without a lot of things.
@@ConnieRiet do you think minimalists have a kind of depression where they think that nothing has a special meaning so there is no need to buy/consume a lot of stuff? Or the other people perhaps have a tendency to depression because they need to buy etc in order to feel happy/special?? 🙄
@@girlgirly1217 says who No every minute in minimilist life is a special moment and ha its value ; depression is for those who are in Rat Race In my 40 and minimilist most if my life now feel more cool ; com Inner peace
Such an inspiring journey! You can tell just how much minimalism has brought balance to your life and I'm so happy for you! It means my own minimalism journey is far from over.
I could relate to this so much as i in my life have raised 3 children on my own and have been attached to things and have taken care of things for so many years and what your saying is so true. I am about to go into a new time in my life and the change is hard but just this week i have started to let go of things and donate more to good will and just get rid of things that as you said, i will use some day, maybe i will need that and i have found that i have not needed most of it in the past 20 years and its time to let go. Taking care of all of this stuff has taken away so much of my valuable time. I don’t know where i am headed but it will definitely be a lot better and easier and more enjoyable without so much stuff. This video was so spot on thank you
Someday items can often hold guilt and shame for me. Especially the crafts, repair, and other some day projects. I have been letting go of those items, and it has effected my overall well being in a positive way.
My wife and I have been together for 30 years. My wife has more of a minimalist mind frame. I was a bit of a hoarder. In thirty years I've grown to appreciate living clutter-free and organized life. We moved from a larger 3 bedroom home and moved to a condo in the city. We never forced our son to join any extra-curricular activities. We always made it a point to have time each and every day to sit and relax. I can't say I'd be comfortable living a radically minimalist lifestyle, I do enough my book and movie collection. I like my colourful clothing. I get a lot of comfort from being able to open my closet and picking out a shirt who's colour fits my mood. This is the same for my movie and book collection. One thing my wife and I have also done is de-cluttered our friendships. Those people that we would see but really didn't get and true pleasure being with or didn't have a deep emotional connection with we slowly stopped seeing. The relationships we have now are fewer but more meaningful. Sorry for bubbling on. It just feels good to be able to talk about this. Thank you for your videos Connie. You have a new subscriber!
Thank you so much for sharing your personal story with us! I love that you recognize the things that bring you joy and keep them. Making time for the people we value is a true gift for us and them. Sounds like you and your wife have a very special way of looking at the world. I'm thrilled you are part of our mindful living tribe. Happiness & peace
love the way you have styled your house and the beautiful flowers...everything you say makes a lot of sense, we all should stop living t keep up with the Joneses and start living for us, our actual needs and just buy the things we really need in our life or make our lives more beautiful and make us feel better all over....
@@ConnieRiet absolutely...even though I am single and don t have children, it became more and more obvious to me especially after listening once to one of Gary V s speeches that he s right, we mostly try to keep up with the Joneses, and that s one of the reasons we get to be burned out because chasing only high paying jobs in order to be able to purchase stuff that we generally don t need we end up feeling unhappy....
and thank you for your great content! this message should be spread to wider masses of people....of all ages....maybe we wouldn t have so many hoarders anymore....:)
Thank you Connie.. always love listening to you. I now feel my happiness in being right here, right now and not in some future moment when I will have xyz.
I actually stumbled across this video and I’m so happy I did. I immediately felt a calmness and loved the points you made about minimalism. Thanks Connie I’m now a subscriber and looking forward to new videos as well as catching up on all the others ☕️🫖
Great post! I’ve just found you channel and look forward to learning more from you. I’ve read through some comments and find it sad that some take your examples so literally. What you find unnecessary, such as a crockpot, a fancy washing machine, or an electric car might not be an extravagance for someone else and a very usefully item. We all need to cook, wash our clothing and get from one location to the other… how we each do that is an individual choice. My take away was having an awareness of the “stuff” we have and why we have it.
Hi Marlys, Beautifully said! You are absolutely correct. Minimalism and life in general is a journey for each of us to express our uniqueness. I don't have use for a crock pot, however, I have a good friend who uses hers every week. Mindful living is about being intentional with our time, money, and energy. Sending you happiness and peace
Love this😊. I have never been to attached to stuff because as a child we didn't have loads (just what we needed) and therefore what I did have was special. But we had an amazing childhood and did so much in terms of experiences. I learnt "look after your things and only replace it when it can't be fixed" . Also since the age of 18 yrs old I have moved 15 times (including abroad) and stuff just stresses me out. I was happiest when I lived with a rucksack and suitcase.. All my stuff for my appartement was made or secondhand. It was great. The worse time with stuff was the last year's, since having kids and with my (now ex) husband. So much stuff. Since my ex has moved out, I spend 2 years separating our 18yrs together.. A total of 90 boxes of "his" stuff. Since then I have been decluttering my kids stuff and my stuff (I realized I don't have much, if you exclude the furniture). Most stuff was the kids. The only sentiment stuff I have is in two small glass cabinets on display, and on one shelf (as decor) in the livingroom. My paintings on the walls are all originals bought on my back-packing travels in Europe, the Caribbean, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, Russia and Taiwan. I love them all, when I look at them they remind me of that trip. I have always saved, try not to buy stuff and then spent on experiences and travel etc.. They are the only thing I really "enjoy" spending money on.... Now I try and get my children to realize the advantages (freedom and money for other things like travel/experiences) of not having to much stuff. We still have "to much" (for my liking) and a pile to sell.. But as a single working mum, finding time is hard.. But I know I will get there soon.
Hi Rebecca! WOW!! Your life seems filled with adventures and beautiful experiences. I agree with spending money on experiences. We have traveled and lived abroad and cherish those memories. Thanks so much for sharing.
Thankyou for sharing ..I have been decluttering on a grand scale and it's like a weight has lifted off me the less "stuff" there is .. But I have not decluttered the things close to my heart as in art and craft items .. I am not a Minimalist yet but I have achieved such a lot in a few weeks .. I like your idea's and they have helped a lot !
I'm so glad you found the video helpful. There is no "right" way to be.a minimalist, becoming more mindful of where we spend our time and money can be life changing. Happiness & peace
@@ConnieRiet well I no longer have shoulder aches as I firmly believe we carry all that weight of excess bodily ..it was like a weight being lifted the more I got rid of "things " .. and Thanks again Connie x
I love your channel, and this video is one of the best! Minimalism is a process, I am trying hard and got rid of many things already. I used to dream of a bigger flat for lack of space for my things, but after decluttering, I realized it is big enough and am very happy to stay here. Now I try to focus on maintaining and renovating what I have, and keeping only what brings me joy. Letting go of some things is not easy, though....Thank you for being so authentic and sharing your journey with us!
I just found you channel and I love it. 😍 New subscriber. 🙋🏼♀️ My husband and I decided to start the minimalist journey 4 years ago and it have been by far our best decision. 🙏💕
Thankyou for sharing your life. I am really a simple person as well,and am on a minimalistic journey. I think its neat yall had the opportunity to live a nomadic life. Our self worth is defined by Him, not by stuff. Thankyou so much for sharing. Bless you
Thank you for inspiring videos Having to move to different state makes you pause and rethink I feel so much happier after decluttering the home and I am keeping those habits 🙏
I once read if we ALL only bought what we truly need the economy would collapse. Capitalism depends on selling "things", hence we get bombarded with commercials and ads selling us stuff we really don't need but they tell us we do and if they play on our emotions it gets even better.
You're correct, our self worth isn't determine by the things we own. Very inspiring journey, more so in your case back in 2008. Over on this side of the world, we didn't feel the impact that much, but I do fully understand what it was like, because for me in 2008 I filed for a divorce, and 2009 -2010 I begin my journey alone, with almost nothing, only myself and a few items to begin with in a small apartment compared to a 4000+ s/f house with stuff, I didn't want anything from my ex, it's where my life begins, free from the past, free from the fear, and etc. Life has been good thus far, I ask for not things but happiness, peace, and calm. Yes even though I still have much things I occasionally need to declutter, and remind myself every now, and then. I won't say I'm a minimalist, but I do try to live mindfully, as not wasting, asking myself if I need vs want. Thank you for sharing xx By the way, love your hair color.
Wow Paulina! Thank you so much for sharing you powerful story. Starting fresh is always an opportunity for growth and exploration. I agree, mindful living can be carried out in so many areas of our lives. Sending you happiness and peace
Very helpful 🙏🏼💕🌸 really appreciate this video! Thanks 🙏🏼 I’m going into year 6 of my minimalist journey & it just keeps going… mine was enforced (separated from a partner & downsized my home) and I didn’t even realise it would help me so v much x
Ive been on this minimalism journey for 2 yrs now. But I moved into a much bigger home, and I love my luxury cars. So yes, minimalism looks diff for everyone. For me it's quality over quantity. I moved away from the city for the quality of life, I have a 2200 sq ft lake house that I am completely in love with. I would not trade it for anything, I hated my 900sq ft apt in the city.
Right. Minimalism for others is only a matter of simply managing what they have and for others it's managing only the things they just have. So be very very grateful if you're super blessed with more than enough!
I am packing to move from my rented apartment which I have lived past 10 years to my new home, our first home. I have begun the minimalist approach in life, specially when shopping for the last decade. Yet I feel I have way too many things which is stressing me out. I have difficulty in parting with certain items. I also realized I occupy over 60% space inside the apartment where others occupy much less space in terms if things and around 70% of my belongings are books and stationery clutter. I want to take what I really really need to the new home.
Moving?! How fun! A fresh start is always exciting. Here is a link to my video that walks through decluttering an entire house. You may find it useful. ua-cam.com/video/dCILVHKsBgY/v-deo.html
There is a huge satisfaction in fixing, repairing and refurbishing items that often are better quality than the new version in the store. I meet so many woman who do not touch so called man jobs. I have a work shop. I have taken woodworking classes, made simple furniture, repair windows, do minor plumbing, shingle, paint, mud a wall, just about anything I need done around the house. Practice. Give yourself a pat on the back. Do the suggested maintenance, put it on the calendar. There are less chores when you have less stuff.
Same page, same dreams, working in tandem, sharing life instead of running through it. A great vision of life together. Still letting others have thier dreams but realizing it is their dream not mine, being free from so much envy freed up to lot of my energy.
my "someday" is in the form of TBR books. I'm in the project of reading "#30pagesaday" them and then sell them. Of course, the new book will continue to come into the home but intentionally.
I stumbled across your channel and its been coming to me (nudging me) in the past two years to minimalize. Consumerism is so paralyzing and I believe, this is all done intentionally, but that’s a whole different ballgame. I am enjoying your videos and look forward to enriching my life by having less. I have too much stuff! I have donated tons of clothes and sold some on FB marketplace. My trouble area is books and has been for years. Audible, paperback, kindle…ohhhh….I will get around to reading that one and this one…LOL. Someday….haha
Rv across America and backpack thru Europe? What a great gift to your daughter! I’m new to your channel and I’m loving it! Consuming them all as I’m sick with Covid. Thanks for sharing of yourself ❤😊 ( just realized I said “consuming them all” to a minimalist lol 😂).
I really enjoyed your video Connie. I've been on a decluttering mission for a few years now. It's slow going! Currently I'm faced with a shoe box full of those felt pads you place on the feet of furniture to protect the floor. I paid good money for those and the thought I might have to pay AGAIN one day rather than keep the ones I have, leaves me paralyzed with indecision and anxiety. Anxious over felt pads! What is wrong with me?! I feel that keeping a few might be sensible, but how many is the perfect number? Is there a perfect number? Anxiety and over-thinking kicks in and so I choose to walk away for now. As you say in your video, it is procrastination, but if you have any thoughts on how to get over this sort of mental block, I'd love to hear it.
Hi Liz, You are not alone. There are so many of us who get stuck in the "someday" cycle. Be kind and patient with yourself. There is no magic number of items or felt pads. There is no right or wrong way to minimalism or how you choose to live your life. I suggest, bringing all of the felt pads out in front of you. Ask yourself, "How many felt pads do I need?" "How many do I feel comfortable letting go?" Perhaps you feel like keeping 4 - 8 is plenty. No matter what number you are comfortable with it will perfect for where you are today. Taking action will make you feel empowered and in control. Happiness & Peace
Liz M it is hard i know, my solution is to start using stuff i have and eventually there will be no excess. Change all pads on your furniture for new one and you will see little difference.
I'm still trying to let go of my huge amount of scrapbooking supplies. I think I'd like to get back to it someday. I used to love it but it was way too time consuming . However, I still have hundreds of photos to put into some kind of format. I'm leaning towards photo albums with sleeves, after I've discarded my duplicate photos . Maybe scan photos to store elsewhere but love older photos too much. Maybe a combination. My current project is decluttering my immense piano music library . So far I've donated 4 large containers of music. And lableled and stored other music in basement . I'm acquiring a grand piano which is larger, giving my upright to my son and his family. I teach piano in my home and my childhood friend just passed away and offered me a deal I could not refuse. She also taught piano. It has made me prioritize my over load of music. But I'm far from a minimalist yet. I aspire to it and am inspired by others' journeys. I really appreciate your calm spirit. and choice of priorities.
Thanks for being part of our mindful living community, Susan! There is no "right" way to be a minimalist. Make choices that fit your unique lifestyle and what brings you joy. Follow your heart and honor where you are today.
how do you deal with the someday. I dont like to get rid of something that I will only have to buy again because I am concerned about the Earths resources.
Hi Lori, Great question. I try to ask self inquiry questions to help determine what to so with my someday stuff. When was the last time I used this? Does this bring me joy or add value to my life? Would I buy this again today? What is the likelihood that I use this again? You get to decide what stays and what goes. If you still aren't sure, keep it a few more months and then revisit it.
Hi Nancy, Everyone is on their own journey. Perhaps, by watching your minimalist habits she will eventually adopt some of them. If not... that's ok too. Not everyone wants to live a minimalist lifestyle. Happiness & Peace
My Guitar ..I only know one tune ..ha ha and daybeds...just in case someone needs it or is visiting my area ...not very often ha ha but take up room ! frames for when I do art .
How did you school your kids when you each only had a backpack full of possessions? I would love to do this but I am not sure how to make it happen with 4 kids that need to be schooled.
Someday I might want to read the journals I kept as a teenager and young adult. I tried recently and couldn’t handle it. And no way do I want anybody getting their hands on those things when I’m dead. So…?
I have diaries from when I was 13 years old to 33. I can't throw them, they have so many beautiful moments and are decorated with occasional drawing or collage.
Agree with most, but not one thing. Consuming/buying alot is a huge problem for the world, both the environment, the resources and the poverty in the world. Everything has a huge price and consequences somewhere in ways that you may not be able to concieve.
I learned to stop holding things for others for whatever reason. I now refuse to take it and what i have for our because of someone else i give it to them to hold or not. Their choice.
Sharing what I've learned over 13 years living as a minimalist.
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I have been a minimalist for over 30 years. It ebbs and flows with life. My biggest takeaways are 1. You can always make home wherever you are. 2. You can always find the stuff you need. 3. My bank account thanks me and I didn't work high paying jobs. 4. Life is beautiful!
Hey Heather. I completely agree! Very well said.
well said,Heather....thank you for the inspiration!
Wise words. Thank you, Heather.
When I studied through the book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible. it changed my priorities and made me view life as it really is, not what this world says it should be. My life has never been better and I have never been happier🙌
Love your channel. I stopped working last November 2021. I had a rough year, losing my mom to Covid and working at a cancer center and losing so many people over the years. I now enjoy my simple life. I get up when I want, I enjoy a cup of coffee now. I have been running out the door all my life. I do not need much to be happy. I love cooking again, and taking walks. I can now be in the moment. Life is more valuable to me now. Thank you for all your inspiration.
I love your journey of self discovery! Sounds like you have worked so many years giving so much of yourself to others in need. Good for you for taking time for YOU. Happiness & peace
It's better to have quality than quantity, that's my new motto.
I like the fact that this journey has worked perfectly well for you and you're absolutely happy with it. I'm 35 now, and have lived my entire life as a minimalist. I somehow was born with that philosophy, and even as an adolescent, I remember being perplexed as I struggled understanding why my other siblings had closets full of clothes and shoes they hardly ever wore, while I only cared for what I abosutely needed. I therefore share quite some common beliefs with you, but seem to differ in one area; minimalism isn't opposed to wealth, success and or luxury of any kind. The way I see it, being a minimalist simply entails one's affinity of living life with just the basics one needs. However, these basics could be expensive, classy and or luxurious for someone who enjoys such. I'm classy, love wealth, and work extremely hard at being successful even though I lead a minimalistic lifestyle. Results; a small apartment in a highend high end neighborhood, very few but brand new furniture in it, a small closet, but with my exact taste of fashion etc... So summarily, minimalism isn't necessarily the same thing as being frugal or living inexpensively. Nothing wrong with that, but those are completely different concepts backed by different philosophies of life I reckon.
Hi Gemoh, Thank you so much for sharing your story and perspective. I love how you said, "minimalism isn't opposite to wealth, success or luxury." Beautifully said! There is nothing wrong with having lovely, luxury items. I agree with you that, minimalism is about living with basic needs. Who said those needs can't be nice. I really appreciate your point of view.
Sending you happiness & peace
Very well said. I agree whole heartedly. Growing up in a poor household; I now enjoy the finer things in life and live in a very nice condo. However, I do regular decluttering and love a high end sparse household and enjoy the wealth that we have accumulated meanwhile being aware everyday for what we have while still being frugal.
I agree. I am a minimalist and I feel it frees me to purchase the best item I can find since I am not going to have 10 of the item.
@@thekromekitty I wish I had thought of this a long time ago…..would have saved a lot of time and money.
@@apheenaroebuck-webb3385 I agree. There's nothing wrong with having nice things but not be wasteful. I want to enjoy some things that I want and may not need.
I have been married for 42 years and I have been a minimalist before it was a "thing," but it has always made our lives and my family's lives so much happier!
You look happy, healthy and well balanced. You're an inspiration 🙏
Thanks so much!!
I feel such a sense of peace just listening to you speak. You emanate such positive energy!
Of all the minimalist videos/vlogs, this one is the most inspirational. Thank you. I hope you are enjoying family time in Germany.
Happy Holidays!
As a "minalimistic person" I just sold a a 2017 motorcycle with 1 mile because I did not use or ever ride and I was making a payment every month plus insurance and the person who bought it absolutely LOVED and enjoyed IT...and as sad as it was to let it it go....it was the JOY to his life and we "both" benefited from it!!! Thank you!!! Kudos!!
Wonderful story! Thank you for sharing with us!
I love the way you speak. It’s so calming to me. I’m a recent subscriber and really enjoying your videos.
Thanks for subbing and your kind words!
I have years of someday clothes that I still hold onto, since 20+ years! I really need to simplify my closet for sure
I didn't ever plan on being a minimalist but it kinda ended up that way after moving to another country and only taking what I could carry in a few bags. I really love how simple it is only having what can fit into my wardrobe and I don't feel like I need anything more than that. My husband owns even less than I do and we're totally fine. We prefer to spend our time and money on fun trips with friends and family and enjoy those experiences instead of shopping for more stuff we don't need. 😊
Hi Vanissa! Thanks for sharing your story. I know exactly what you mean. When we traveled abroad with only one carry-on, it was incredibly freeing.
I love your attitude. I realise I've been a minimilist in some ways for years. Your videos inspire me to incorporate more minimilist ways into my life. Thank you.
Hey Lizzie,
Thank you for watching! I'm so glad you enjoyed it.
@@ConnieRiet
qwwwwwa
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I am moving for the third time in the last 5 years and do have the various sizes of ear bud inserts on my dining table. Ugh! I don’t like to throw things away but believe your message was what I needed to hear. Thank you 🙏🏻
More and more people want less and less. I love your message.
Love how far you came. We recently did a big clean up again. My husband making a new shift. So happy with. My most stuff is creative stuff. Loving to make art. The other one is books. I did many away, but lately buying more books than books that leave the house. I feel it makes me a bit tense, because I have not enough time. Unwilling to let go of something. Searching for a balance now.
Love it! Thanks so for sharing Paula. I especially love how you put, "searching for a balance." So true my friend.
,thank you Connie so appreciate your UA-cam videos Rose from Scotland ❤
I love and believe in what you say so much! Thanks for sharing you are such an inspiration. We have been duped into believing this fancy lifestyle is what life is all about. Namaste sister!
You are so welcome! Cindy. Namaste
I am minimalist since i remember myself i only want the necessary. Even in my skin care. A serum znd a cream. A jeans and two other clothes. Three nice dresses. I have confidence and think i am pretty enough without a lot of things.
Hey! Thank you so much for sharing your minimalist journey with us. I love how you connect a sense of self-worth with how you live mindfully.
@@ConnieRiet do you think minimalists have a kind of depression where they think that nothing has a special meaning so there is no need to buy/consume a lot of stuff? Or the other people perhaps have a tendency to depression because they need to buy etc in order to feel happy/special?? 🙄
@@girlgirly1217 says who No every minute in minimilist life is a special moment and ha its value ; depression is for those who are in Rat Race
In my 40 and minimilist most if my life now feel more cool ; com
Inner peace
Such an inspiring journey! You can tell just how much minimalism has brought balance to your life and I'm so happy for you! It means my own minimalism journey is far from over.
Thank you so much!!
Love this video and I am constantly trying to downsize my lifestyle and have more contentment 😊 it truly brings me joy.
I could relate to this so much as i in my life have raised 3 children on my own and have been attached to things and have taken care of things for so many years and what your saying is so true. I am about to go into a new time in my life and the change is hard but just this week i have started to let go of things and donate more to good will and just get rid of things that as you said, i will use some day, maybe i will need that and i have found that i have not needed most of it in the past 20 years and its time to let go. Taking care of all of this stuff has taken away so much of my valuable time. I don’t know where i am headed but it will definitely be a lot better and easier and more enjoyable without so much stuff. This video was so spot on thank you
Hi Denise, Thank you so much for sharing your story! I'm glad you are part of our mindful living community. Embrace change.
Happiness & peace
Iv kept books for 15 years because I was going to read them "someday". I decluttered them last month and never read it. 😅
Someday items can often hold guilt and shame for me. Especially the crafts, repair, and other some day projects. I have been letting go of those items, and it has effected my overall well being in a positive way.
I love this! Sounds like by letting go of the physical item you were able to let go of the emotional ties. Thanks for sharing!
Simple and easy is great in my life and I now enjoy other ways of enjoying life!!!thank you Connie!!!xxx
My wife and I have been together for 30 years. My wife has more of a minimalist mind frame. I was a bit of a hoarder. In thirty years I've grown to appreciate living clutter-free and organized life. We moved from a larger 3 bedroom home and moved to a condo in the city. We never forced our son to join any extra-curricular activities. We always made it a point to have time each and every day to sit and relax. I can't say I'd be comfortable living a radically minimalist lifestyle, I do enough my book and movie collection. I like my colourful clothing. I get a lot of comfort from being able to open my closet and picking out a shirt who's colour fits my mood. This is the same for my movie and book collection.
One thing my wife and I have also done is de-cluttered our friendships. Those people that we would see but really didn't get and true pleasure being with or didn't have a deep emotional connection with we slowly stopped seeing. The relationships we have now are fewer but more meaningful.
Sorry for bubbling on. It just feels good to be able to talk about this.
Thank you for your videos Connie. You have a new subscriber!
Thank you so much for sharing your personal story with us! I love that you recognize the things that bring you joy and keep them. Making time for the people we value is a true gift for us and them.
Sounds like you and your wife have a very special way of looking at the world.
I'm thrilled you are part of our mindful living tribe.
Happiness & peace
love the way you have styled your house and the beautiful flowers...everything you say makes a lot of sense, we all should stop living t keep up with the Joneses and start living for us, our actual needs and just buy the things we really need in our life or make our lives more beautiful and make us feel better all over....
Thank you so much for your input and compliment.
@@ConnieRiet absolutely...even though I am single and don t have children, it became more and more obvious to me especially after listening once to one of Gary V s speeches that he s right, we mostly try to keep up with the Joneses, and that s one of the reasons we get to be burned out because chasing only high paying jobs in order to be able to purchase stuff that we generally don t need we end up feeling unhappy....
and thank you for your great content! this message should be spread to wider masses of people....of all ages....maybe we wouldn t have so many hoarders anymore....:)
Thank you Connie.. always love listening to you. I now feel my happiness in being right here, right now and not in some future moment when I will have xyz.
Beautifully said!
I actually stumbled across this video and I’m so happy I did. I immediately felt a calmness and loved the points you made about minimalism. Thanks Connie I’m now a subscriber and looking forward to new videos as well as catching up on all the others ☕️🫖
Glad you're here!
Great post! I’ve just found you channel and look forward to learning more from you. I’ve read through some comments and find it sad that some take your examples so literally. What you find unnecessary, such as a crockpot, a fancy washing machine, or an electric car might not be an extravagance for someone else and a very usefully item. We all need to cook, wash our clothing and get from one location to the other… how we each do that is an individual choice. My take away was having an awareness of the “stuff” we have and why we have it.
Hi Marlys, Beautifully said! You are absolutely correct. Minimalism and life in general is a journey for each of us to express our uniqueness. I don't have use for a crock pot, however, I have a good friend who uses hers every week. Mindful living is about being intentional with our time, money, and energy.
Sending you happiness and peace
Thank you for this video
This is my mind set and I really needed this validation !!!!
I love your serenity dear Connie...
It's pacify my spirit
Inspired by your life style...
Love to be you...
Thanks for sharing your beautiful life....
Hey Regina! Wow! Thank you so much for your kind words. They mean the world to me.
Happiness & Peace😊👃
Love this😊.
I have never been to attached to stuff because as a child we didn't have loads (just what we needed) and therefore what I did have was special. But we had an amazing childhood and did so much in terms of experiences. I learnt "look after your things and only replace it when it can't be fixed" . Also since the age of 18 yrs old I have moved 15 times (including abroad) and stuff just stresses me out. I was happiest when I lived with a rucksack and suitcase.. All my stuff for my appartement was made or secondhand. It was great.
The worse time with stuff was the last year's, since having kids and with my (now ex) husband. So much stuff. Since my ex has moved out, I spend 2 years separating our 18yrs together.. A total of 90 boxes of "his" stuff. Since then I have been decluttering my kids stuff and my stuff (I realized I don't have much, if you exclude the furniture). Most stuff was the kids. The only sentiment stuff I have is in two small glass cabinets on display, and on one shelf (as decor) in the livingroom. My paintings on the walls are all originals bought on my back-packing travels in Europe, the Caribbean, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, Russia and Taiwan. I love them all, when I look at them they remind me of that trip.
I have always saved, try not to buy stuff and then spent on experiences and travel etc.. They are the only thing I really "enjoy" spending money on.... Now I try and get my children to realize the advantages (freedom and money for other things like travel/experiences) of not having to much stuff.
We still have "to much" (for my liking) and a pile to sell.. But as a single working mum, finding time is hard.. But I know I will get there soon.
Hi Rebecca! WOW!! Your life seems filled with adventures and beautiful experiences. I agree with spending money on experiences. We have traveled and lived abroad and cherish those memories. Thanks so much for sharing.
Thankyou for sharing ..I have been decluttering on a grand scale and it's like a weight has lifted off me the less "stuff" there is .. But I have not decluttered the things close to my heart as in art and craft items .. I am not a Minimalist yet but I have achieved such a lot in a few weeks .. I like your idea's and they have helped a lot !
I'm so glad you found the video helpful. There is no "right" way to be.a minimalist, becoming more mindful of where we spend our time and money can be life changing.
Happiness & peace
@@ConnieRiet well I no longer have shoulder aches as I firmly believe we carry all that weight of excess bodily ..it was like a weight being lifted the more I got rid of "things " .. and Thanks again Connie x
My shed/store is my Someday place …as is my wardrobe and shoe box 🥹🥹🥹🥹
Very logical. Very soft spoken
I’m currently having the someday syndrome with my business suits and dress clothes. We are all working remote and went more casual.
I love your channel, and this video is one of the best! Minimalism is a process, I am trying hard and got rid of many things already. I used to dream of a bigger flat for lack of space for my things, but after decluttering, I realized it is big enough and am very happy to stay here. Now I try to focus on maintaining and renovating what I have, and keeping only what brings me joy. Letting go of some things is not easy, though....Thank you for being so authentic and sharing your journey with us!
Thanks for sharing!! Minimalism (much like life) is a journey. I'm so glad you enjoy the video and found value in it.
I just found you channel and I love it. 😍 New subscriber. 🙋🏼♀️ My husband and I decided to start the minimalist journey 4 years ago and it have been by far our best decision. 🙏💕
That is awesome! Minimalism has been one of our best decisions too. Thanks for subscribing!
Connie, I am certainly enjoying your videos. Thank you for sharing your life.
Glad you like them!
Thankyou for sharing your life. I am really a simple person as well,and am on a minimalistic journey. I think its neat yall had the opportunity to live a nomadic life. Our self worth is defined by Him, not by stuff. Thankyou so much for sharing. Bless you
Hi Christina, Thank you so much for your kind words.
Thank you for inspiring videos
Having to move to different state makes you pause and rethink
I feel so much happier after decluttering the home and I am keeping those habits 🙏
Love that!
I once read if we ALL only bought what we truly need the economy would collapse. Capitalism depends on selling "things", hence we get bombarded with commercials and ads selling us stuff we really don't need but they tell us we do and if they play on our emotions it gets even better.
You're correct, our self worth isn't determine by the things we own. Very inspiring journey, more so in your case back in 2008. Over on this side of the world, we didn't feel the impact that much, but I do fully understand what it was like, because for me in 2008 I filed for a divorce, and 2009 -2010 I begin my journey alone, with almost nothing, only myself and a few items to begin with in a small apartment compared to a 4000+ s/f house with stuff, I didn't want anything from my ex, it's where my life begins, free from the past, free from the fear, and etc. Life has been good thus far, I ask for not things but happiness, peace, and calm. Yes even though I still have much things I occasionally need to declutter, and remind myself every now, and then. I won't say I'm a minimalist, but I do try to live mindfully, as not wasting, asking myself if I need vs want.
Thank you for sharing xx
By the way, love your hair color.
Wow Paulina! Thank you so much for sharing you powerful story. Starting fresh is always an opportunity for growth and exploration. I agree, mindful living can be carried out in so many areas of our lives.
Sending you happiness and peace
@@ConnieRiet Thank you dear Connie.
I'm glad to share.
Sending you the same.
Thanks for this
Thanks for sharing your perspective on minimalism
Very helpful 🙏🏼💕🌸 really appreciate this video! Thanks 🙏🏼 I’m going into year 6 of my minimalist journey & it just keeps going… mine was enforced (separated from a partner & downsized my home) and I didn’t even realise it would help me so v much x
Thanks for sharing your story! It's funny how life works out for our benefit. Event hough at the time the situation seem disheartening.
Ive been on this minimalism journey for 2 yrs now. But I moved into a much bigger home, and I love my luxury cars. So yes, minimalism looks diff for everyone. For me it's quality over quantity. I moved away from the city for the quality of life, I have a 2200 sq ft lake house that I am completely in love with. I would not trade it for anything, I hated my 900sq ft apt in the city.
Thanks so much for sharing your minimalism story!
Thank you for sharing. I have “someday” syndrome and keep clothes and magazines. I have cleared them time to time but they keep on piling up again.
Right. Minimalism for others is only a matter of simply managing what they have and for others it's managing only the things they just have. So be very very grateful if you're super blessed with more than enough!
Beautifully said! Thank you for your insight.
I am packing to move from my rented apartment which I have lived past 10 years to my new home, our first home. I have begun the minimalist approach in life, specially when shopping for the last decade. Yet I feel I have way too many things which is stressing me out. I have difficulty in parting with certain items. I also realized I occupy over 60% space inside the apartment where others occupy much less space in terms if things and around 70% of my belongings are books and stationery clutter. I want to take what I really really need to the new home.
Moving?! How fun! A fresh start is always exciting. Here is a link to my video that walks through decluttering an entire house. You may find it useful. ua-cam.com/video/dCILVHKsBgY/v-deo.html
Thank you for sharing your journey. I've enjoyed each one of your videos and feel a connection to you and your community.
I'm so glad!
There is a huge satisfaction in fixing, repairing and refurbishing items that often are better quality than the new version in the store. I meet so many woman who do not touch so called man jobs. I have a work shop. I have taken woodworking classes, made simple furniture, repair windows, do minor plumbing, shingle, paint, mud a wall, just about anything I need done around the house. Practice. Give yourself a pat on the back. Do the suggested maintenance, put it on the calendar. There are less chores when you have less stuff.
I love this! Kathleenie, you are a truly a jack or all trades, and clearly very capable. I admire your ability and willingness to "get the job done."
I love my crackpot, it's enable to cook meals and do other stuff around the house. New subscriber, love your hair, and really enjoy your videos.
I really hope you meant crockpot. 🙃
@Tamerra J .Sorry,I did . My fingers and mind don't always work well. I probably shouldn't comment on anything. Thank you for telling me about it.
Thanks for watching, Patti. I love your input. Always keep the things that add value and joy to your life.
happiness & peace
@@pattibrown2939 Oh no! That wasn’t meant to discourage you. I just thought it was funny. It happens to us all. Take care!
I've noticed that all minimalists have money or an asset big enough to sell so you can live the way you did.
If you start out as a minimalist, then you will have money too. It's amazing how fast money can stack up.
Being a minimalist helped me pay off my house because I wasn’t buying so much. There is a momentum that happens that’s wonderful!
Same page, same dreams, working in tandem, sharing life instead of running through it. A great vision of life together.
Still letting others have thier dreams but realizing it is their dream not mine, being free from so much envy freed up to lot of my energy.
my "someday" is in the form of TBR books. I'm in the project of reading "#30pagesaday" them and then sell them. Of course, the new book will continue to come into the home but intentionally.
Hi Kat, Thanks for sharing!
Enjoy all your tips! Can you please provide the info on where you purchased this lovely white blouse.
Thank you 😊
I stumbled across your channel and its been coming to me (nudging me) in the past two years to minimalize. Consumerism is so paralyzing and I believe, this is all done intentionally, but that’s a whole different ballgame. I am enjoying your videos and look forward to enriching my life by having less. I have too much stuff! I have donated tons of clothes and sold some on FB marketplace. My trouble area is books and has been for years. Audible, paperback, kindle…ohhhh….I will get around to reading that one and this one…LOL. Someday….haha
Welcome to our mindful community! You got this!!!
@@ConnieRiet Thank you!
I’m so glad that I saw your video! I I think we are near in age, which I felt. Loved it! New sub jannike from sweden.❤️🇸🇪
Thanks for subscribing! Welcome to the mindfulness group.
Getting love your program
Thank you...very motivational and interesting..
Thanks for sharing 🥰
Very inspirational. Thank you shyni from Bangalore India
I have a question Connie, how do you whiten your teeth? They look great! Love your ideas!
Well said , great tips,thank u 🌸
Great ideas to consider.
I am so glad I found your channel :)
Subscribed :)
looking forward to see more videos from you in future
Awesome! Thank you!
All my hobbies i loved and have no time and space for and probably won't is my someday.
Rv across America and backpack thru Europe? What a great gift to your daughter! I’m new to your channel and I’m loving it! Consuming them all as I’m sick with Covid. Thanks for sharing of yourself ❤😊 ( just realized I said “consuming them all” to a minimalist lol 😂).
I’m also consuming Connie’s videos while I’m sick with Covid 😷
You are great 😊 I got some great ideas from you, thank you 🌈👍
U r experience is so encourageing
I really enjoyed your video Connie. I've been on a decluttering mission for a few years now. It's slow going! Currently I'm faced with a shoe box full of those felt pads you place on the feet of furniture to protect the floor. I paid good money for those and the thought I might have to pay AGAIN one day rather than keep the ones I have, leaves me paralyzed with indecision and anxiety. Anxious over felt pads! What is wrong with me?! I feel that keeping a few might be sensible, but how many is the perfect number? Is there a perfect number? Anxiety and over-thinking kicks in and so I choose to walk away for now. As you say in your video, it is procrastination, but if you have any thoughts on how to get over this sort of mental block, I'd love to hear it.
Hi Liz, You are not alone. There are so many of us who get stuck in the "someday" cycle. Be kind and patient with yourself. There is no magic number of items or felt pads. There is no right or wrong way to minimalism or how you choose to live your life. I suggest, bringing all of the felt pads out in front of you. Ask yourself, "How many felt pads do I need?" "How many do I feel comfortable letting go?" Perhaps you feel like keeping 4 - 8 is plenty. No matter what number you are comfortable with it will perfect for where you are today. Taking action will make you feel empowered and in control.
Happiness & Peace
Liz M it is hard i know, my solution is to start using stuff i have and eventually there will be no excess. Change all pads on your furniture for new one and you will see little difference.
I have the someday syndrome about clothing - I say things like “someday I’ll fit back into that favourite pair of jeans”
Thank you so much for sharing this ❤❤❤
You are so welcome
Thank you
First video I've seen of yours. Very grounded feel and messaging. Peeked at your other content. Very interesting channel. Sub'd
Welcome aboard! Thank you for you lovely complement.
I'm still trying to let go of my huge amount of scrapbooking supplies. I think I'd like to get back to it someday. I used to love it but it was way too time consuming . However, I still have hundreds of photos to put into some kind of format. I'm leaning towards photo albums with sleeves, after I've discarded my duplicate photos . Maybe scan photos to store elsewhere but love older photos too much. Maybe a combination. My current project is decluttering my immense piano music library . So far I've donated 4 large containers of music. And lableled and stored other music in basement . I'm acquiring a grand piano which is larger, giving my upright to my son and his family. I teach piano in my home and my childhood friend just passed away and offered me a deal I could not refuse. She also taught piano. It has made me prioritize my over load of music. But I'm far from a minimalist yet. I aspire to it and am inspired by others' journeys. I really appreciate your calm spirit. and choice of priorities.
Thanks for being part of our mindful living community, Susan! There is no "right" way to be a minimalist. Make choices that fit your unique lifestyle and what brings you joy. Follow your heart and honor where you are today.
Wow.
What is the proportion of Dr Bonners, baking soda and water for Shampoo and body wash
Just discovered your channel, loving your style and have subscribed 🤗
Thanks Vera-Ann! Glad to have you join us.
I just found your channel/ NEW Subscriber!!!🌞
I am trying to become a minimalist too!!!
Great...advise & agree on attachment to things.
🥰👍
Thanks for subscribing!
'Someday' things are the hardest things to get rid of.
I love your lifestyle I’ll be follow you
Like your voice tone, too.
Thank you kindly!
how do you deal with the someday. I dont like to get rid of something that I will only have to buy again because I am concerned about the Earths resources.
Hi Lori, Great question. I try to ask self inquiry questions to help determine what to so with my someday stuff.
When was the last time I used this?
Does this bring me joy or add value to my life?
Would I buy this again today?
What is the likelihood that I use this again?
You get to decide what stays and what goes. If you still aren't sure, keep it a few more months and then revisit it.
Yes my daughter is very attached to material items and she is uptight. How do you fix that?
Hi Nancy, Everyone is on their own journey. Perhaps, by watching your minimalist habits she will eventually adopt some of them. If not... that's ok too. Not everyone wants to live a minimalist lifestyle.
Happiness & Peace
My Guitar ..I only know one tune ..ha ha and daybeds...just in case someone needs it or is visiting my area ...not very often ha ha but take up room ! frames for when I do art .
How did you school your kids when you each only had a backpack full of possessions? I would love to do this but I am not sure how to make it happen with 4 kids that need to be schooled.
Someday I might want to read the journals I kept as a teenager and young adult. I tried recently and couldn’t handle it. And no way do I want anybody getting their hands on those things when I’m dead. So…?
I have diaries from when I was 13 years old to 33. I can't throw them, they have so many beautiful moments and are decorated with occasional drawing or collage.
There is no "right" way to minimalism. If your journals give you joy, keep them.
How wonderful that you have diaries throughout your life. Keeping the things that have so much meaning and joy for you is lovely.
I burned all of mine. There's no way I wanted anyone to ever read them.
@@wall844 yeah, I’m thinking burning is the way to go. Did you read them before you burned them?
Your very inspiring 🙂
Thanks Laura!
@@ConnieRiet Connie can you do a video on downsizing I to move abroad.
Agree with most, but not one thing. Consuming/buying alot is a huge problem for the world, both the environment, the resources and the poverty in the world. Everything has a huge price and consequences somewhere in ways that you may not be able to concieve.
Utah? Me too. Minimalist mom of 3
Nice! Always fun to meet another Utah lady.
I learned to stop holding things for others for whatever reason. I now refuse to take it and what i have for our because of someone else i give it to them to hold or not. Their choice.
I also experience this with my grown kids. I like how you set your boundaries.
Someday I might need all the “paid bills” paperwork
I was a minimalist before it was cool. :)
For the someday section...
It has to be makeup, shoes, perfumes, clothes :)
The someday items. Sigh. We have two sets of crutches because we someday may need them again. Lol.
lol! So Funny!