When you first heard of minimalism, what did you think it was? How would you describe it to someone now? Thanks to Skillshare for sponsoring this video - the first 1000 people to use the link will get a free trial of Skillshare Premium Membership: skl.sh/allisonanderson09201
I would love to see you do a deeper dive into consumerism, consumerist culture, and big company marketing tactics that make us feel like we constantly need to buy stuff.
I just don’t like clutter. It makes me a little “ nervous “ and cleaning is so much easier when I don’t have too many things. I do also own more expensive / quality things. It’s funny how someone acted so shocked recently and told me it was not necessary to own a designer bag cuz they’re so pricey. She noticed I was wearing one. I told her I love some of the timeless pieces and I only own 2 currently ( got rid of the rest throughout the years ) and I plan on purchasing two more in the future. They will be my forever pieces. Timeless... I told her I am a really good saver and unlike her I barely spend any money on clothing... yet another pair of shoes... more tops... more make up more etc etc. That is what she likes to do. It’s not for me. I like a clean space and don’t need to own too many things.... Two to three times a year I’ll go through my wardrobe and check my clothing. If I’ve worn something in the past year or not.. if it still looks good... if there is anything missing. I was missing a black cardigan last year after getting rid of one that had small holes that couldn’t be repaired.. so I got a barefoot dreams cardigan ( best thing ever ) and I just don’t get distracted buying other stuff. And of course I’ll cave once in a while and buy something that I didn’t rally need. That’s ok. Occasionally that will happen. I prefer to save my money and spend it on a trip ( even though I’ve been on 0 trips since October 2019 due to covid) So minimalism comes in many forms 😊😊
krigi s that also goes for most of my pieces in my wardrobe. I’d rather own a few good quality and timeless pieces. In the past when I owned a bit more and lesser quality I also just found that I wasn’t even wearing 2/3 of what I owned. So I really think about my purchases. Nothing super trendy in my closet... just timeless. It works for me. Glad I discovered this. It brings me more peace 😁
I don’t think anyone would look at my space and think I’m a minimalist either! I think minimalism is way more about the journey of becoming more intentional with the items in your life rather than pairing down to a certain number. Thanks so much for this vid!
I would be really interested in an updated home tour so that your viewers can see what minimalism looks like to you. Thank you for the awesome content!
Since the pandemic started I’ve realized there are so many things that I own that don’t add value to me or my life. I want to start being more minimalist with the things that I own, especially in my biggest downfall which is clothing. Prior to March I was a huge shopaholic but I have not bought any clothing since then except for a pair of shorts and I think that’s a good start on the path to having more self control for me. Im just so tired of my space feeling so cluttered with no extra space.
OMGGGG yesss there are so many misconceptions about minimalism and ngl, I also had some of the same misconceptions. I think it's easy to make different assumptions about it until you actually deep dive and try to understand it
Free shop! The animal needs to have a name (i don't know if this is a saying in English but it is in dutch 🐥) I am rooting for this name to take of. I experience this as a real addiction. You are an inspiration!
. I've tried, more than once, to be a more committed minimalist, it's not always really easy for me, but it was a reasonable idea to try. Excellent your video, which explains many things. A hug from Europe.
Having kids is a challenge of its own, but try incorporating it in your lives, both of them will see the benefit of it, ask that as your birthday present or something
Benson Gitau: Personal Finance Channel same. I find if I declutter it will spark them to do it too. Even just a drawer or something. I made my side of the closet so good my husband actually refolded and tossed a ton of his free marathon t-shirts. Lol. Anything counts.
Great video Allison, my wife and I have become big fans of your channel! Awesome content and very helpful. Most youtubers share videos of things that we could never relate to. However, we love how down to earth and practical your videos are. Keep up the good work!
I think minimalism means to think before you buy. 🔸Do you need it 🔸can you make it yourself with stuff that you have at home already🔸can you borrow from someone🔸will you use it more than once🔸is there a second hand option 🔸 ...
Always love the minimalism content, I've been even making some of my own :) One myth I notice is the thought that you can't have a nice/styled/cozy home since to some people that requires a lot of things.
I originally thought it was also about deprivation, now I know it's about worrying less, now that I see the kitchen cabinets at my parents house versus ours where things are over flowing, falling out and just keeping things they never use, it stresses me out. I never really realized out much my stuff was stressing me until it was gone.
Minimalism to me is a tool that help me live; not a set of rules to follow. I see many positives and improvements in my life. I am more intentional with things I do and decisions I make. The myth I got once was “I’m not rich enough to be a minimalist” hahaha I was dumbfounded. Seriously.
Growing up poor helps your perspective to purchase the necessary items needed in life. There is longevity with quality items as well. Which equates to tangible purchases. Smart shopping. “So are homeless people true minimalist” ??? Love your Vlogs ❤️ thank you for sharing ❤️
Honestly, watching your journey with minimalism influenced a lot of the pieces of it that I incorporate into how I do life now. I don’t necessarily consider myself a minimalist and I wouldn’t even say I have a lot of rules, but it taught me a lot about purchasing with intention and choosing quality over quantity, which has saved me a lot of money overall. So thanks, Allison! ☺️
I am in no way near a minimalist. But because of your videos and other minimalist videos, I have cut back on shopping and I make more conscious choices if I do shop. In the two years, I have only spent about $100 on clothes for myself, before I would easily spend $500 a year on clothes. I am currently trying to get rid of things that don't matter to me or I have no use for :)
"Minimalism" is a personal life choice. I've "decluttered" quite a bit. I fit my clothes, shoes, linens in one closet.I really dig it. Actually, I'm happier now than ever.
As with most things, there's way more gray area than people realize! After decluttering several time Kondo-style, I realized some things that I just don't spend money on because I don't enjoy it. Makeup, fancy clothes, any sort of upgraded tech. When I want something, I put it in a wishlist list in my phone, and if it's still there after a while, I'll buy it. Or I sometimes still make "impulse" purchases, but only if they fit a specific need. For example, I recently bought a very unnecessary woven flat basket thing because I know exactly where I can put it in my apartment and what purpose it will serve. But like you said, I no longer buy things just for the sake of having it.
Hi Alison - I came across your channel today. Realy enjoyed this video. You make some brilliant points on the common assumptions of what minimalism is. I look forward to seeing more of your thoughts and views on minimalism. Nick
but you own so much skincare, you can‘t be a minimalist - well it adds value to my life. i wanted to do my own version of that video for a while and now i really need to do it.
Minimalists are extremely ungrateful for the circumstances they are born into. They live in the most privileged parts of their world yet complain that they are given too much. If people believe in minimalism so much and they truely want as little as possible, they should go live in the middle of Western Sahara were their is no water, food, government or much of anything. I would love to see their reaction to this, as this is true “minimalism”.
Have you watched the “Minimalism: A documentary about the important things” on Netflix? I have been trying to get more into Minimalism and I’m excited to see more on your channel about it. 🤗
I started watching it and got bored. It's dull and monotonous. Feels like it lacks energy, and this happened to me twice! But Allison's views are refreshing and she makes minimalism happy and cheerful. Probably just the way she talks but there must be more to it! :-)
Nimisha Keskar yeah, I feel like it was a bit monotonous as well. I learned a few things from it though. I was also working on my homework while watching it so I think I caught about half of it. Have you seen anything or read anything helpful for minimalism? 🤗
@@swimrchik108 that's great, you learnt something 😀 Anyway, I got into this thing because of Marie Kondo, I am sure you might have come across her series on Netflix. While her organization methods are the focus, what she tells is that buy/keep/have things that you need or are grateful for. Once you start applying this technique not just while organizing but buying, that's the true essence of minimalism I believe
@Allison Do you believe minimalism is different for men and women? Since women are involved in more activities like men, does the number of things owned, quality of things, the association of materialistic possessions with self-confidence (eg: makeup) differ between genders? #JustWondering Great video btw :-)
I would not call your lifestyle minimalism, I would just say its common sense. though I see how it would seem like minimalism when placed in such a materialistic context. When I think minimalism I think of people who own as little as possible to live comfortably, like that same outfit everyday type people.
I've been practicing minimalism for about four years now. I don't call myself a minimalist. My home is neither stark or bare but when I have friends and family over, the first question they ask is "Are you moving?" I'm now understanding that lots of people are anxious around open spaces and/or not having that one thing that they feel they need at any given moment. Minimalism is not for everyone.
It's a constant journey. Especially when you move. You get more space. You start wanting to decorate your home. Its strange. I've had times where I have fit all my possessions in a little honda car, and I've had times like now where I own a lot but most of it just landed on my doorstep, or its things I'm holding for other people. As well as I'm buying a lot stuff but I'm trying to be intentional about getting things that will last and make me happy.
Honestly, your videos have started me on a journey of simplifying my home and life. In the beginning, it was daunting thinking of narrowing my closet down and organizing my home, overthinking if I had too much or too little. I appreciate that you've pointed out that minimalism doesn't mean having nothing, but rather quality and useful things.
For me the reason people tell me I don't practice minimalism is but you wear makeup ( or you don't wear simple makeup) you don't wear the same top every day or you dye your hair
I don't think I'm a minimalist by any means but I like the concept and try to apply it as much as I can. It's truly liberating as opposed to depriving.
How do you decide what to buy? That’s something I always struggle with because I see an item and convince myself I need it. What is your shopping mental process? (Hopefully that makes sense)
Pre COVID I had a rule my sister taught me. I would pick up an item (apparently that's where you get a hit of positive hormones), then if it wasn't an item I actually *needed*, I would put it back. My sister did a lot of research and also learned that what can work is to consciously think, during the shopping process, "Right now, looking at and thinking about this item is the most pleasure I will get out it. If I buy it, it won't live up to my expectations, and I will likely regret it much more than I would regret not buying it." (Particularly for things that just appeal for some emotional reason--some item you kind of know you don't need/won't use). Then put it back/remove the item from your cart.
When you first heard of minimalism, what did you think it was? How would you describe it to someone now? Thanks to Skillshare for sponsoring this video - the first 1000 people to use the link will get a free trial of Skillshare Premium Membership: skl.sh/allisonanderson09201
Nice video
I’m starting to prefer the term “essentialist” - only owning what is essential for you to live a fulfilled and happy life :)
I guess you've read the book by Greg McKeown, too?
I would love to see you do a deeper dive into consumerism, consumerist culture, and big company marketing tactics that make us feel like we constantly need to buy stuff.
I just don’t like clutter. It makes me a little “ nervous “ and cleaning is so much easier when I don’t have too many things. I do also own more expensive / quality things. It’s funny how someone acted so shocked recently and told me it was not necessary to own a designer bag cuz they’re so pricey. She noticed I was wearing one. I told her I love some of the timeless pieces and I only own 2 currently ( got rid of the rest throughout the years ) and I plan on purchasing two more in the future. They will be my forever pieces. Timeless... I told her I am a really good saver and unlike her I barely spend any money on clothing... yet another pair of shoes... more tops... more make up more etc etc. That is what she likes to do. It’s not for me. I like a clean space and don’t need to own too many things.... Two to three times a year I’ll go through my wardrobe and check my clothing. If I’ve worn something in the past year or not.. if it still looks good... if there is anything missing. I was missing a black cardigan last year after getting rid of one that had small holes that couldn’t be repaired.. so I got a barefoot dreams cardigan ( best thing ever ) and I just don’t get distracted buying other stuff. And of course I’ll cave once in a while and buy something that I didn’t rally need. That’s ok. Occasionally that will happen. I prefer to save my money and spend it on a trip ( even though I’ve been on 0 trips since October 2019 due to covid)
So minimalism comes in many forms 😊😊
krigi s that also goes for most of my pieces in my wardrobe. I’d rather own a few good quality and timeless pieces. In the past when I owned a bit more and lesser quality I also just found that I wasn’t even wearing 2/3 of what I owned. So I really think about my purchases. Nothing super trendy in my closet... just timeless.
It works for me. Glad I discovered this. It brings me more peace 😁
krigi good job. It just feels really good. Less stuff to worry about!
I don’t think anyone would look at my space and think I’m a minimalist either! I think minimalism is way more about the journey of becoming more intentional with the items in your life rather than pairing down to a certain number. Thanks so much for this vid!
I would be really interested in an updated home tour so that your viewers can see what minimalism looks like to you. Thank you for the awesome content!
Being a minimalist is a personal journey and not every one's journey will look a like.
Since the pandemic started I’ve realized there are so many things that I own that don’t add value to me or my life. I want to start being more minimalist with the things that I own, especially in my biggest downfall which is clothing. Prior to March I was a huge shopaholic but I have not bought any clothing since then except for a pair of shorts and I think that’s a good start on the path to having more self control for me. Im just so tired of my space feeling so cluttered with no extra space.
Same here!!!!
One myth I come across a lot is you can’t have a cozy home 🙄
That’s for the great as always content. I would love to see an updated closet tour.
OMGGGG yesss there are so many misconceptions about minimalism and ngl, I also had some of the same misconceptions. I think it's easy to make different assumptions about it until you actually deep dive and try to understand it
Free shop! The animal needs to have a name (i don't know if this is a saying in English but it is in dutch 🐥) I am rooting for this name to take of. I experience this as a real addiction. You are an inspiration!
.
I've tried, more than once, to be a more committed minimalist, it's not always really easy for me, but it was a reasonable idea to try. Excellent your video, which explains many things. A hug from Europe.
Excited to hear your thoughts on minimalism, I’ve tried to be more minimalist in my daily life and have found it helpful! 😌
I used to be a minimalist, and then came my wife and a kid. Now I only dream about it.
Having kids is a challenge of its own, but try incorporating it in your lives, both of them will see the benefit of it, ask that as your birthday present or something
Benson Gitau: Personal Finance Channel same. I find if I declutter it will spark them to do it too. Even just a drawer or something. I made my side of the closet so good my husband actually refolded and tossed a ton of his free marathon t-shirts. Lol. Anything counts.
What is that beautiful wall color?! And is it the same color as the wall in your other video (with the same wall behind you).
Great video Allison, my wife and I have become big fans of your channel! Awesome content and very helpful. Most youtubers share videos of things that we could never relate to. However, we love how down to earth and practical your videos are. Keep up the good work!
I think minimalism means to think before you buy.
🔸Do you need it 🔸can you make it yourself with stuff that you have at home already🔸can you borrow from someone🔸will you use it more than once🔸is there a second hand option 🔸 ...
Always love the minimalism content, I've been even making some of my own :) One myth I notice is the thought that you can't have a nice/styled/cozy home since to some people that requires a lot of things.
I originally thought it was also about deprivation, now I know it's about worrying less, now that I see the kitchen cabinets at my parents house versus ours where things are over flowing, falling out and just keeping things they never use, it stresses me out. I never really realized out much my stuff was stressing me until it was gone.
Minimalism to me is a tool that help me live; not a set of rules to follow. I see many positives and improvements in my life. I am more intentional with things I do and decisions I make.
The myth I got once was “I’m not rich enough to be a minimalist” hahaha I was dumbfounded. Seriously.
Growing up poor helps your perspective to purchase the necessary items needed in life. There is longevity with quality items as well. Which equates to tangible purchases. Smart shopping. “So are homeless people true minimalist” ??? Love your Vlogs ❤️ thank you for sharing ❤️
Honestly, watching your journey with minimalism influenced a lot of the pieces of it that I incorporate into how I do life now. I don’t necessarily consider myself a minimalist and I wouldn’t even say I have a lot of rules, but it taught me a lot about purchasing with intention and choosing quality over quantity, which has saved me a lot of money overall. So thanks, Allison! ☺️
Everyone draws their own lines.
I don't like labels!
I am in no way near a minimalist. But because of your videos and other minimalist videos, I have cut back on shopping and I make more conscious choices if I do shop. In the two years, I have only spent about $100 on clothes for myself, before I would easily spend $500 a year on clothes. I am currently trying to get rid of things that don't matter to me or I have no use for :)
I think when you practice minimalism you can call yourself a minimalist 😊
Your videos are so inspiring and peaceful!💛
"Minimalism" is a personal life choice. I've "decluttered" quite a bit. I fit my clothes, shoes, linens in one closet.I really dig it. Actually, I'm happier now than ever.
Another great video to start my week! Slowly integrating minimalism into my life 😊
As with most things, there's way more gray area than people realize! After decluttering several time Kondo-style, I realized some things that I just don't spend money on because I don't enjoy it. Makeup, fancy clothes, any sort of upgraded tech. When I want something, I put it in a wishlist list in my phone, and if it's still there after a while, I'll buy it. Or I sometimes still make "impulse" purchases, but only if they fit a specific need. For example, I recently bought a very unnecessary woven flat basket thing because I know exactly where I can put it in my apartment and what purpose it will serve. But like you said, I no longer buy things just for the sake of having it.
I'm the same way. If I'm going to make an impulse purchase it's the exact reason. Unless it's food, but that's a whole different story. 😅
Dani Xoxo oh same, I have no self control with food. I just want to try everything.
Hi Alison - I came across your channel today. Realy enjoyed this video. You make some brilliant points on the common assumptions of what minimalism is. I look forward to seeing more of your thoughts and views on minimalism. Nick
but you own so much skincare, you can‘t be a minimalist - well it adds value to my life. i wanted to do my own version of that video for a while and now i really need to do it.
Minimalists are extremely ungrateful for the circumstances they are born into. They live in the most privileged parts of their world yet complain that they are given too much. If people believe in minimalism so much and they truely want as little as possible, they should go live in the middle of Western Sahara were their is no water, food, government or much of anything. I would love to see their reaction to this, as this is true “minimalism”.
Minimalish lol is what I go by ! Striving on, working on it !
Hahahaha! I loved the end bit and I might have to take you up on it.
Have you watched the “Minimalism: A documentary about the important things” on Netflix? I have been trying to get more into Minimalism and I’m excited to see more on your channel about it. 🤗
I started watching it and got bored. It's dull and monotonous. Feels like it lacks energy, and this happened to me twice! But Allison's views are refreshing and she makes minimalism happy and cheerful. Probably just the way she talks but there must be more to it! :-)
Nimisha Keskar yeah, I feel like it was a bit monotonous as well. I learned a few things from it though. I was also working on my homework while watching it so I think I caught about half of it. Have you seen anything or read anything helpful for minimalism? 🤗
@@swimrchik108 that's great, you learnt something 😀
Anyway, I got into this thing because of Marie Kondo, I am sure you might have come across her series on Netflix. While her organization methods are the focus, what she tells is that buy/keep/have things that you need or are grateful for. Once you start applying this technique not just while organizing but buying, that's the true essence of minimalism I believe
Great video!! I love these types of videos! Minimalism is something I aspire to.
Your definitions are spot on.
Love this I want to move into minimalism 🙌 amazing 😉
@Allison Do you believe minimalism is different for men and women? Since women are involved in more activities like men, does the number of things owned, quality of things, the association of materialistic possessions with self-confidence (eg: makeup) differ between genders?
#JustWondering
Great video btw :-)
I would not call your lifestyle minimalism, I would just say its common sense. though I see how it would seem like minimalism when placed in such a materialistic context. When I think minimalism I think of people who own as little as possible to live comfortably, like that same outfit everyday type people.
I've been practicing minimalism for about four years now. I don't call myself a minimalist. My home is neither stark or bare but when I have friends and family over, the first question they ask is "Are you moving?" I'm now understanding that lots of people are anxious around open spaces and/or not having that one thing that they feel they need at any given moment. Minimalism is not for everyone.
Allison, you are a favorite of mine. Love your content. But, did you really have to remind me about dresser drawers?💜🥵🤯😇⛸
It's a constant journey. Especially when you move. You get more space. You start wanting to decorate your home. Its strange. I've had times where I have fit all my possessions in a little honda car, and I've had times like now where I own a lot but most of it just landed on my doorstep, or its things I'm holding for other people. As well as I'm buying a lot stuff but I'm trying to be intentional about getting things that will last and make me happy.
I, too, enjoy Matt's channel. Haven't watched the video you mentioned though....yet!
Don't buy anything!!! 🤣🤣🤣. Whatever you buy is your own business forget what strangers on the internet say. You can't have just one swimsuit anyway 😁
Honestly, your videos have started me on a journey of simplifying my home and life. In the beginning, it was daunting thinking of narrowing my closet down and organizing my home, overthinking if I had too much or too little. I appreciate that you've pointed out that minimalism doesn't mean having nothing, but rather quality and useful things.
For me the reason people tell me I don't practice minimalism is but you wear makeup ( or you don't wear simple makeup) you don't wear the same top every day or you dye your hair
I don't think I'm a minimalist by any means but I like the concept and try to apply it as much as I can. It's truly liberating as opposed to depriving.
This is such a fantastic video. I used to think I had to get rid of everything. Learning more and more minimalism is different for everyone.
Less is more 🔥
I think that your closet tour video is the video I crave the most this year!!!
Your videos bring bring value to my life
Living like a pauper is a myth of minimalism.
I love your videos on minimalism, please do more!!!
How do you decide what to buy? That’s something I always struggle with because I see an item and convince myself I need it. What is your shopping mental process? (Hopefully that makes sense)
Pre COVID I had a rule my sister taught me. I would pick up an item (apparently that's where you get a hit of positive hormones), then if it wasn't an item I actually *needed*, I would put it back. My sister did a lot of research and also learned that what can work is to consciously think, during the shopping process, "Right now, looking at and thinking about this item is the most pleasure I will get out it. If I buy it, it won't live up to my expectations, and I will likely regret it much more than I would regret not buying it." (Particularly for things that just appeal for some emotional reason--some item you kind of know you don't need/won't use). Then put it back/remove the item from your cart.
I've been starting to do this
Who is her husband?
A true minimumalist is a self-sufficient hermit-like. The end.