Yes, me too. Also, you can often get higher quality products than buying cheap knock-offs from sites like amazon. Quality items last longer and work better, so you do end up saving money in the long run.
I bought something not on sale from a name brand - and I feel it was a minimalist choice. My cell phone broke, I immediately went to Best Buy and got the cheapest name brand phone available. It was a necessity, and my decision to purchase it was strictly for that reason. My attitude towards my phone shifted almost 180 degrees, after that. I barely look at my phone since, and I never want to. My phone no longer steals my time.
1. Resorts 2. fancy car 3. bigger house 4. haircut 5. designer clothes 6. Food delivery 7. Fancy restaurants 8. first class air travel 9. Camera gear From what I recall top of mind, in no particular order. Interesting video! Food for thought Edit: 10. Full priced items!
I wonder about household and it's a good way in the USA to protect some wealth if there's, God forbid, a bankruptcy necessary. I'm not sure exactly how this could be done different to stay minimalist, such as buying a very large plot and using a very small house, and it probably varies greatly depending on state.
3 month rule: want something, wait 3 months to purchase it, if you still want said item then you know it’s not an impulse purchase. Helps a lot of people I know. Also if you ever have kids you might rethink the 3 bedroom with a yard. Had a tiny home growing up and it was miserable, came from a family of four and had a brother, but as long as it’s just you and your partner then 1 or 2 bedroom would be fine. Extremely soothing voice as well, thank you for always being a soothing presence to my day.
3 months is a long time though, what if it’s gone by then? I always wait a week and I asked others if it’s worth it, if by then I still want it I purchase it.
@@Sunflowers9191 what could you possibly want besides food that wouldn’t be there in 3 months? If it’s not there after 3 months then it wasn’t meant to be but a week isn’t long enough to truly decide if you need something or if you want something. If it’s something for work like clothing where you can’t wait then make sure you have cash in hand for the purchase, that way you are going to the store with intention not to just wander aimlessly and spend all your hard earned money. It’s just advice to help from spending or buying excessive things that we don’t need, use, or wear. Do what works best for you and your needs but it’s always a tip now in the back of your mind if you ever want to try something different. Hope you have an amazing rest of your day and do what makes you happy that’s all that matters.
I used to feel so much pressure to consume more and more because I felt like those external things would fulfil me and make me feel more worthy. I would spend so much money each month on extravagant items and services. Only until I realize that my worth lies within me I was able to stop excessive consumption.
This is so validating! I like to live modestly but other people think I am crazy or they use me as a benchmark for someone who they can favourably compare themselves to. It took me years to break free of all the conditioning and sadly, most people don't seem to realise that there is even another option other than to buy more and more. I have learned that when you go through life lighter, it makes the journey easier. Plus I can afford to work much less! More time for me to spend in Nature, with my family and friends, helping the community and doing creative projects and less time having to manage all my stuff. We think we own all these things but really, they end up owning us. 😊✨
I primarily spend 99cents on my clothing at thrift stores. I'm proud of not adding to the piles of trash in the world. Thanks for speaking on frugality. I think people get it confused with minimalism and think they are no longer "allowed" to spend a lot of money on things. Far from the truth.
Yes I totally agree I have been shopping at Goodwill and thrift stores only I will refuse to buy anything brand new anymore to keep things out of the landfill.
Don’t understand people that buy from people that hunt from thrift shops and that sell it online for a high markup plus postage. Totally insane. I agree I never shop online. I like to touch and feel and trying it on.
The beauty of minimalism is that it can be tailored to our reality. Being mindful allows us to make choices and informed decisions. I don’t mind spending on a fancy dinner once in a while, for a special occasion. But I couldn’t care less about a big house or fancy car 😁. I love the way you share your thoughts, it’s always respectful and inclusive. Your channel is a judgement free zone, and your videos are so calming, thank you Sophie 😊
Great tips! I’d only disagree on the last point of never buying full price - I wish to support local businesses and pay prices that an item should have - many things in this world are way too cheap, also thinking about unfair labor. On top of that we can’t continue extorting the supply chain and keep ordering everything online, imho
*"Everything in life is easier when you don't concern yourself with what other people are doing."* The chances of you seeing this comment is pretty low, but if you did, *I hope you have an amazing day.* 🖤
Not just if you do not concern yourself with what other people, but also if you compare yourself to other people's behaviour and expectations. In other words, who is rich? He who is content with his lot.
Yes this video resonates with me! In this society we are surrounded with getting the best things around us and society’s definition is having an expensive house, a branded car, owning and wearing luxury goods and its a while for me to realise that these are not the things I really want. There’s a lot of discernment to do in the midst of the busyness of life. Takes a lot to step back and think for ourselves. Love the videos!
I’m a new watcher, it has helped me realise I don’t need a bunch of stuff to make me happy. And I have been a lot more aware of what I’m buying now and you know what it really makes me happy. I realised I was trying to fill a void with stuff that never made me happy and would continue to buy useless stuff that really didn’t do anything but make me broke and sad. It’s not even really about money, I think for me it’s just realising what makes me happy. Thank you for your videos they are truly mind opening. 💖
I can relate to all these list. I would have anxiety having all the things in the world to keep up. Life is happier when you don't have too much because you have peace of mind.
I have longed for a bigger house for quite a long time. But I have to admit that a cup of coffee and relaxing music-these such small things-have already made me content this morning. Maybe..whether we live in a big house or not does’t matter after all, but rather, what you add to-or omit from-where you are matters much more.
Aloha, Sophie, from Philadelphia. We lived on Oahu for about 15 years before moving back to the mainland. Anyway, very much enjoy your commonsense minimalism and thoughtfulness. You have uncommon wisdom for a person of your age. Your voice and music choices are very calming. Such a beautiful looking young lady with an equally lovely spirit. Looking forward to each next vlog.
I have been having such a difficult time with this concept lately and this video was exactly what I needed to hear. I absolutely agree with everything you said and feel the same way, but I find it’s extremely easy to get caught up with what everyone else is spending their money on and lose yourself- especially with everything being so present on social media. Thank you for being so real, practical and reminding us that this is okay and normal. Your videos seriously, seriously help me. Immensely. Thank you.
You're such a breathe of fresh air in today's culture. Practicality is something we all need to pay more attention to.. I really don't understand those (especially) wearing all the branded stuff with logos all over themselves, it feels like they might be trying too hard on top of that, it's advertising for the brand (s) for free! Some of the fashion RU-vidrs here go on a spree every week to update on their over the top outfits, a ton of makeup, big houses, fancy cars that cost a lot & that isn't 'normal' in my humble opinion. Most people don't want to do that, because it doesn't make sense. Yesterday I was watching an ex model who is now in her 50's, and it was sad to hear how the society's expectations of her because she chose to age gracefully, and not getting her hair colored or have any plastic surgery. Happiness, peace & joy usually don't came with a price tag. Or an item attach to it. Cheers x
Everyone used to think I'm crazy for not going to hairdresser every two weeks like so many women I know, but I've had the exact same hairstyle since I was a little girl and I only trim my long hair a little bit every now and then and paying for something I can easily and quickly do myself is illogical! I'd add newly released books to this list. I'm an avid reader and buying books second hand from charity shops and online has saved me fortune.
For reading, you can use the public library. About the hairdresser, I dont know anybody going more than 1 time by year. Must be different in another cultures. I go one time by 4 or 5 years, and it is really cheap. 5 or 6 dollars. Too I dont know anybody have been never in a resort or travelling first class. I always thought that is only for very very rich people, and I never understood the difference. The airplane is the same, the hours, etc. But the reality is most of the people doesnt buy that things because is not an option for them.
I recently moved out from my aunt’s place and started living on my own. The expenses are gonna be so much and my earnings are less. Nevertheless, I am kinda excited to start this new chapter of my life. This video was of great help. Appreciate the little details you have mentioned here. Much love, Sophie.❤️
I love your video style. Sometimes I click on videos with "lists" but I can't watch them fully. It takes forever to go through the list and it's just them staring into the camera and it bores me. I love how you go through quickly with a little reason and also break up the face time with pictures or little snip of video while talking about the list. Really really love that and appreciate it! Keeps my mind engaged. Love your videos :)
I completely agree with the house - this is one of the first things that popped into my head upon seeing the intro! It seems like the phrase "Bigger is better" holds court here so often. In my area, smaller older homes are constantly torn down to make way for mansions, 5,000 sq. ft., 6 bedrooms, that sort of thing. I grew up in a nice, small 2-story house (1,500 sq. ft.) that was just the right size for my parents and me. My father shared an even smaller home with his parents and brother. The thing is, once you're used to something, it's hard to downsize; it's always easier to upsize. Where does it end? Also agree with car upgrades/designer items/first class tickets: the extra cost is just not worth the benefit to me. I'll admit, I have loved being in expensive cars or flying first class when the opportunity arose (either relatives having a nice car, or being upgraded due to miles). But I like saving money on these things in order to spend on the things that are important to me. Great video!
I feel like I would be tempted to fill my bigger house with stuff which would cost me more money... and this cycle would never end. Thanks for watching Diana ❤️
Wow I completely agree with this list! I've owned or experienced everything in the list but I realized I didn't draw that much satisfaction from them, including a big house, fine dining, first class travels, and designer clothes!
It took me to age 50 to fully realize the vanity of most THINGS. My mother was so wise. She told me that even if we were extremely wealthy it would not bring us JOY. Why? Because the finest rugs, drapes, workmanship...surrounding us...were luxuries bought with someone else's pain...such as fine rugs are made with child labor in poor nations. Just food for thought. Be grateful for simplicity...there is beauty and freedom in it.
I do agree that for most people, lots of the luxuries and equipment in cars are unnecessary to spend on, but for a car enthusiast like me, driving is an experience; the engine sound, the manual, the speed. These are priceless!😄
Agreed. Word by word. We have been a community of people who have been taught/conditioned to live by societal standard of success and ended up destroying the planet in various ways for our convenience. This is the kind of education this generation need to live a more sustainable life.
This is very relatable for me too! When I reached late 20s, all of my views have changed completely~ I just want a simple and fulfilled lifestyle as well. I'm also in my early 30s (31 to be exact :D) and your points really resonated with me...well maybe the hair, I couldn't do it but I'm still making it as simple as healthy and less chemicals. Other than that, completely agree
Thursday morning, getting my breakfast and coffee☕ watching your "so me" video🏡🥰☀️🌷 Thank you Sophie, I totally agree with you!! You make my day always🌷🌷🌷
*I love eating at hole in the wall and ma and pops restaurant; when I travel anywhere I try to find the local places to get the real taste of the culture. I also have an old car 2003 trailblazer and I love it as some of the places me Arvin go are really off road, there is alot of things we already have we can be grateful for and spend our money intentionally.* 😊💕
I agree with everything you said and I’ve been thinking about these things a lot lately. I think if more people took a step back and really asked themselves what THEY want, not just hop on the more is more bandwagon they would make different choices.
hi ! i am just 17 but your videos inspire me every time. i know that i don't want to live a life full of unnecessary things... why can't we simply just enjoy a simple life ? thank you so much, because you help me build the future adult i will be.
Great video! This is positive sharing , the kind of contents that people should watch and learn from. I didn't watch RU-vid till my 40s and there weren't similar videos then if my memory doesn't fail me. I am so glad I made sane choices since since my 20s. Lower pay and responsibilities were the reasons for my sensible options. A decade ago, I bought a bigger place to house my parents and three children. There weren't much retail options and temptations unlike now,. All the more important for people to be aware and make deliberate decisions.
Love this! Every single thing you said I feel the same way about and also act on. I drive an old van which I love and see it as something that gets me where I need to be. I have an old iPhone because it’s paid off and we refuse to stay in hotels unless it be absolutely necessary. And we are a family of 5 and live in a 800 ish square foot house! I love how cozy and warm it feels. Kids wish they had bigger bedrooms but I told them when their older they’ll appreciate their own bigger bedroom in their own house or apartment!!
Living space is such a big topic. I live on 36m2 (387sq ft) together with my boyfriend. For a long time I was unhappy with it because I compared myself to others who lived in big homes. It took me some time, but now I appreciate all the benefits that come with it. And I'm not sure about moving out anymore. 😊
We live a debt-free life. We do have a big house and we thought about downsizing because we are empty nesters. However, the Covid hit and we love the rooms and size we have including amazing outdoor space. We have everything we need. We do not have to spend money outside. Staying home is so great. We sometimes feel that no 5-star hotel or resort is better than our own house. We can save a lot of money.
I love these style of videos! I think if more people knew what they would and wouldn't buy and could be more intentional, than everyone would be a little happier
I miss fine dining so much but it's not about the food it's about the experience. I ate at a fine dining venue in Vegas once and we were a table of 4 girls and we had 10 people serving us we felt like queens! But yeah, usually it's farmers markets and small family owned businesses we dine at :) As someone looking for a house, I currently live in a 900sqft apartment with a child and 2 cats and our 7 year old son said it feels small and is finally outgrowing it. It's cozy but he wants a yard and a bit more space. We certainly don't need 2000sqft but maybe 1300. We live very simply, but a tiny home would be difficult with a child 8 or older. I told my husband this is the only time in our lives where we will live a little large. When our kids are 8-20 and then when they move out we can downsize. So, it's a period of around 15 years depending on how many kids you have. I would love to hear a solution to this that can be done minimalistically.
My favorite part on your video is LATEST GADGETS. Most vloggers out there definitely want to regularly upgrade their tools. But even though we use it for our work or business, I agree that we need to utilize things that still are perfectly working. Thank you for this wonderful video! 😊
We are in our 70's. I would add expensive jewelry. Except for my engagement ring, which my MIL insisted I get new, my jewelry is second hand, or junk. Ignore the ads. Tina
I started giving myself a hair cut since the pandemic started and now I really regret paying so much money for it! I actually enjoy doing it and by now I think I've mastered the art. I really love your video because it emphasizes that we truly need to reconsider consumerism and the amount of money we spend on meaningless things. Great video!
I couldn’t agree with you more on car investment. For me, I am not car-savvy and I am very low maintenance when it comes to cars. So it wouldn’t it worth it for me. Having tried all of those things on the list, I can see why one would think these items are not worth the money if given the choice. But the fact that we have the choice itself, I think, is even more powerful than the “stuff” itself. I think it’s important to clarify within yourself what’s worth it for you, and what’s not. And this may take time. And I think it’s okay to enjoy the nice things life- just not have that as the sole purpose of happiness. Because truly, money can’t buy happiness. I really liked what you said about learning new knowledge when fixing or doing things yourself. It’s a perspective that brings joy into doing/fixing things on our own, rather than just replacing it with goods/services. Thank you again for such a wonderful video.
I agree. My first house had a pool and 3000sqft corner lot. It was a lot of upkeep. It becomes your hobby. My second house has no pool. I’m happy to swim at the HOA pool or YMCA. No pool upkeep.
You always inspire me with your money habits. I’m so happy I got to learn about your channel, always grateful for that. Contents like this satisfy me. At least, someone out there got the same mentality and mindset with me. Most people around me can’t understand why I save up or always seize an opportunity to choose a cheaper choice
I can resonate with this lifestyle, it's so important to be mindful of how we react to consumerism and the impacts we have on ourselves and the planet. Oh please do a video about mindful weddings I would love your perspective on this especially being financial savvy 🖤
I can totally relate to it. Adding to your points, I do not shop anymore now like clothing n cosmetics. Even I make body lotion, body wash, scrubs, kajal etc. at home. On the occasion, I wear minimal makeup. Even make surface cleaners without spending a lot of money. Not falling for high-end brands. Living simple n minimal will definitely keep you relaxed n calm.
When you mentioned about spending money for resorts as a relaxation, I have nothing against people who do that. It’s their choice, as well as I have mine. It’s not for me, too. Before, I feel like it’s something weird for me but now, after this video, not anymore :) it’s nice to find someone who thinks the same about those places. Sure, their service offers relaxation and ofc, it’s really nice to spend a vacation in a beautiful resort, but it’s not an ideal travel for me :)
I'm not into a resorts, but I stayed in 5 star hotels occasionally back when I travelled for work. I remember the last ever trip was to Milan, so my wife accompanied me and we chose the best hotel in the city centre. I'm glad my company fronted the cost! However the point is ordinarily we wouldn't stay there, it was certainly worth the treat and built great memories.
I totally agree with your choices. When my family and I travel, we spend as little as we can on where we sleep at night. Like you, we do a lot of exploring outside of the hotel room. For example, when we go to Disneyland in California, we choose a inexpensive hotel just across the street instead of staying at one of the Disneyland resorts, because we spend most of our time inside of the Disneyland parks. When we get back to the hotel, we typically just freshen up and sleep to get ready for the next day. We also choose hotels that have free breakfasts.
Thank you for this wonderful message. 🙂 I completely agree with you, especially regarding your haircut 💇🏽♀️ regiment! When I was forced to slow down and do things for myself, I began to see how much money I was consistently spending on my hair maintenance. I started cutting and coloring my hair myself and I couldn’t believe how much money I saved!!! I will never go back to that 😁
Same here! It was 200$ like every three months. Now I just color the roots with a box from the store and cut my hair very inexpensive. I will say I do miss the hair coloring 😞but I’m not desperate for it like I used to be.
Yeah, a big house (who's going to clean it) Designer Vehicle (Huge payment) Designer clothes ( you can buy more clothes with the same amount of mone or buy less clothes) Vacations (Super expensive) We get out on weekends and splurge a little. Hair cuts, why??? I love long hair! BTW, your hair is beautiful 😊. I cut my hubby 's hair
Great content as usual! I think it’s all about finding our own balance on what we spend our money on. This topic needs more discussion. I get my haircut twice a year - curly self hair cut would be a disaster 😁 but absolutely refuse to spend money to have someone’s name on my clothes, bags etc. Inner calm and comfort are priceless.
Agree with most of it, I don't spend money on 1. Branded clothing 2. Watches 3. Fine dinning 4. Luxury hotel 5. Hardcover books 6. Subscription (except internet access, no Netflix). However I do 1. Fly business class only for extremely long flight 2. Buy big property only from an investment perspective 3. Tailor clothing only when I need to replace the worn out working shirts or pants.
I'm with you on the food shopping. I love farmers' markets and I am extremely picky with my produce, especially vegetables. I don't leave that to chance at all.
I do not need designer clothes or anything else from a famous brand, which may be expensive. For me, ordinary clothes of no particular brand, are all right, as long as they are comfortable.
Great tips! I agree with all of them! I would also add not spending money on the nail salons. And not buying large suitcases, since I trained myself to only travel with a carry on laggage.
Books - with my 8 year old kindle and library card I’ve cut down on amazon dopamine deliveries. Notepads - bills suck. But I use the envelopes for notepads to save cash and paper. “Small Ball”
Yes! My partner and two cats and I went from a 700 to 800 sq ft home when we went from renting to purchasing, and honestly, I’m like this is too much space ! I feel like I see him and am with him less. It sounds silly but it made a huge difference. I really don’t see us getting more space ever. The more I grow up the more I wonder what people do with their 3 living rooms. We have an extra room now and I have no clue what to do with it that would meet any needs… because we don’t have any! Love that you included this point because I feel like we don’t talk about it enough!
Hey! I'm a native Korean and I like your calm soothing voice. Thanks for sharing your lifestyle tips with us. I like your video content. Hope you have a wonderful day!
"Luxury labels don't target to the rich people. The labels target to people who have maybe just money to buy them - and want to look rich. - Labels are targeting people with low self-esteem." - Learned this of marketing from RU-vid - One thing you really don't want to save money is work-gear. Professionals can do with amateur-work-gear - but amateurs, amateurs need pro-work-gear. (It's like; buy cheap - get pissed when it doesn't work out - and then buy the expensive one - the one you should have been bought in the first place 🙂) If you figure out way to upgrade your video's even from this - maybe it's worth it - because: "People will pay for entertainment. They will pay like 25 million $ to get Mike Tyson to the ring." It is already an exquisite experience - your video's 💖 Thank you! ❤
I agree with many of the items, especially the designer clothes part! (I never understood the attraction). For my part, I don’t spend on mani-pedi anymore- I do them myself and results are just as good! Thanks for your video! Your voice is so calming, I relax just listening to you ;)
Completely agree with u.. First of all i want to say that ur voice is soooo mesmerising evn some time i was so lost in your tht dnt listen the words.. And after that i have to restsrt the video to listen the words also.. Ur soooo sweet and sooo organised its so amazing to see ur videos lots of love for 😘😘😘
Mine are 1. Gadgets 2. Vehicles, 3. Air travel. 4. Ordering in, 5. New clothes, 6. Bigger living accommodation, Thank you for the video. I was going through some visa shopping and suddenly realized. Wow, I don't need these.
Thank you so much, Sophie! I love watching your channel, it resonates the lifestyle that I am creating right now. So much wisdom on the content. I used to believe that luxury equates success, but now, I want to live my live on frugality and practicality and invest on what truly matters. 🥰
Yes, I can relate to many if not all 10 of these. Being fulfilled from the inside, getting your true needs met is what really matters. I realize there's a little bit of overlap, a night or two at a resort does have it's benefits, but it's so over the top of what we need to feel happy. Maybe once a year or every two or three years it might make sense, if even that. I donthink it takes some courage to be honest with oneself about your true needs and "false" needs. With all the subtle and not so subtle marketing and social conditioning, it's pretty hard to cut through it all and just be ourselves and just be natural. It's a kind of "work", to stay true to ourselves. But the rewards are quite significant, and life becomes more meaningful. Anyway, that's my response, but you said it best. Thanks for the message, and help keeping me and many others honest!
I agree with all your points. I think the same way. Yolo but once is enough and certain things I can do without. According to my job , I’ve seen ppl that has luxury and after a time it’s like a waste they can’t even get to enjoy any more. I’d rather live a simple life and be happy with it. A two bedroom home is just right for me. After all the most expensive clothes is just for a season. The expensive cars depreciate just the same. I buy a Buick for my lifestyle full paid off and with good upkeep it looks brand new everyday. Less stress.
I tick off everything you mentioned as my never-will-I-ever-list too. My car is a Chevrolet Aveo 2007 model, I love it! It's the best car in the world. I love my small home, less cleaning, less stuff, less headache. I also like affordable hotels and deals, it keeps me happy and motivated to go outside. I love grocery shopping, nothing like picking up exactly my favorite looking fruit and vegetable. I don't upgrade my phones, cameras, laptops or anything too often. And when it breaks I feel happy that now I have used it enough and will go get a few affordable and nice one. I love value for money for everything, wasting money is not my liking. So so happy that you and me are just the same. My sister in Maui, love from Chicago! Oh yeah, I moved to Chicago 5 days ago from Canada. I won't be here too long but this is my home for now.
