I am struggling with this concept. I want minimalism because i love a clean organized almost empty home. The flip side is my lifestyle joys mean stuff. Canning, homesteading, growing/drying my own spices and teas. So much stuff required for this healthy lifestyle. I can't find balance!!!! Frustrated!!!
@@victoriajohnson3034 Agreed!! The moment one has interests that require equipment… such as musical instruments, sports, sewing, calligraphy, crystals, pets, healing modalities… or in my case, all of the above!!… it becomes impossible to live with only a suitcase-full of stuff! I prefer the Konmari method of looking at things: keep what sparks joy. It’s not about how much or how little you own. It’s about everything you own bringing joy into your life. If your hobbies and interests add value to your life, why would you throw away your instruments/sporting equipment? If spirituality brings peace, why throw away your candles and incense just to have less stuff? If animals add love to your life, despite all their paraphernalia, why deprive yourself simply to have less? Some things are more important than living with as little as possible. It’s about *values*… finding the balance between what is just the right amount of stuff to not cause stress and overwhelm… whilst also accommodating your loves and values in life. 😇💝🙏
I loved when you said "if you have a hard time giving up something, then don't". Really makes me like your channel even more. Minimalism looks different for everyone. Thank you for sharing practical ways to own less....
i agree with you that life is not about owning so many things rather enjoying experiences and relationships that make your life more meaningful and joyful
Just found your channel. Thanks for all the great information. I haven't eaten meat for15 years, have always liked to have less things also. Going through a rough period in my life, my husband went unexpectedly to be with the Lord in June. Lots of changes in my life, trying to stay positive. Going to try your going method of going to sleep easier, which I really need now.
This is the fundamental teaching of the indic philosophies like Vedanta and Buddha. Keep less possession and less attachment to material objects. As material possession also brings sorrow , anxiety with it.This is very much spiritual.
My urge to have a simpler life with THINGS lead me to your videos while I’m having a quiet lunch break. Us kids are in the midst of relocating mom back to her homeland after 40 years abroad, needless to say it’s such a big move mentally and physically. Mom loved to shop and I used to be like that too, now my sister and I just can’ wait to simplify our homes once mom is settled. I will have to deal with all the things that she leaves behind, plus my own messy home. I almost can’t wait to take on the challenge when I come back in October, it will definitely be a lot of gratitude and letting go. Thank you for your channel.
I came here from England 32 years ago with my 10 and 8 year old, there’s now 4 grandkids. I think about moving back as I miss it so much but I feel guilty I wouldn’t be here when they need me to help. Has your mom had to deal with similar feelings?
I graduated in 1969. I bit the bullet and tossed two of my 4 high school year books ! I couldn’t remember most of the people that signed it .lol I took out a couple pages and kept. I will let my 11th grade book go also, keeping a page or two from it. At 70 years old we look nothing like we did back in those days..I will keep my senior year book.
We are moving house and I have packed a few boxes with stuff that I am reconsidering... do I need these little things or not? the answer is clear. NO you don't need them. Let go!
I’m trying to weed out all the things I once valued in my life but it is overwhelming at times. Your videos help me put things in perspective and keep me motivated to keep going. So Thank you and have a peaceful week!
I love the way you think & the things that you say.All we really need is the memory(which we already have),not all the actual items hanging around and adding subconscious stress to our lives.Many years ago,a friend who was building a new,bigger house,told me her husband said to her."We"re building a much bigger house,so we can buy & store more junk,that we don"t need or even want.I"ve never forgotten that comment.
I can totally relate to feeling anxiety and agitation when my space feels overstuffed and overwhelmed. I am in the process of continuing to downsize until i find a peaceful equilibrium. The sentimental items are indeed the hardest. Thank you for your words of wisdom and encouragement!
I love your messages Connie! I just did a big clearing of extra stuff, donating dozens of boxes of things I wasn’t using. I feel lighter and freer. I still have more pruning to do, but the things I’ve held onto are beautiful, useful, and meaningful to me.
Hey Connie I’m watching your playlist today as I declutter more stuff in my kitchen I’ve been binning loads all summer and I feel like I’m just at someone else’s beginning at decluttering it’s hard work but I’m hopeful as every day stuff gets put to the bin I can’t wait until I feel a sense of freedom thank you so much for your videos
Usually, shopping wears me out:). I prefer buying items and clothes I need online, and often I buy second-hand. It's so relaxing to own fewer things.....
Connie, you are just a breath of fresh air and so soothing to watch how you declutter and organize your home. I love how you prioritize what brings value to your life, making enough room for what is important. I really appreciate how you simplify your life because it takes the pressure off of clinging to items we no longer use. You are a great example in proving we don't need a lot of items, but only the things we need so one can have a better quality and stress-free life. Thank you so much for blessing us with your insight and perspective. P.S. I love your hair and simple style. You are beautiful dear one!
I used to use shopping as entertainment as well. Since starting on my decluttering journey I no longer do that. With Covid keeping me at home it was easy to break the shopping habit, now I shop only when I really need something and like you if I see something I want I wait at least 48 hours, mostly I forget all about the item. I also have a rule of one item in means two go out. You are such a calming sprit for me.
Yes, I can see i have been using shopping as entertainment, a way of curbing boredom (instead of going to the gym and doing some serious exercise!). I now put 'wanted' items into 'save' lists and, as you say, usually forget I've even done it. it certainly pays to wait.
Connie you are glowing and keep looking younger and younger! You are so inspiring! I watch a couple of YT Channels that talk about clothes and looking chic and current. They are stumbling blocks for me and when I buy clothing now it's usually because they tell me I need a great blazer for fall...I'll buy it on Poshmark...but then I can't return it when I come to my senses. I guess I should unsubscribe from those channels. Or at least leave things in my cart for a day or two before completing my purchase. That has been helpful in the past. This has been a good reminder for me. Thank you!
I've recently really focused on downsizing and minimalizing...for myself it's really no problem. I don't want to be overwhelmed anymore. Trying to convince my boyfriend is another story. I will say that it is harder for me to part with things that loved ones gave me or once owned....so, I have started clearing out things that I have purchased or no longer serve a useful purpose. One tip I use...donate something everytime I buy something. Another trick I've learned is to categorize....one day sort through household items, another day sort thru clothes and so on...it helps you to get an idea of what you need and what you don't need so there's less guilt if you splurge.
I rarely go shopping now, unless it is for a much needed item. I noticed that things I bought while with my friends ( impulse buys) usually always got decluttered a short time later. Connie, I love you and your beautiful videos - you have such a beautiful soul 🥰
That's what I struggle with. I don't know if it's ok to keep sentimental and family things in a box and look at them every once in awhile to appreciate them? Because if they're out of the box and they're all over the place it's clutter! It's so hard to part with family things and things from earlier in life! Thank you for your videos you're very helpful and decluttering and trying to become a minimalist!
You always look so lovely in skirts. Would you be able to provide a link for your red skirt? I love how your house looks decorative without any visual clutter. You seem to use items that are functional such as your mirror and wooden entry rack rather than lots of wall paintings/ pictures. I’d love to see a video describing your style/method for your home decorating. Your homes always look so peaceful and pretty. Thank you for your enjoyable videos.
I think you are such a beautiful soul. I think your attractiveness is your intentionality on living your life, your way. Way to go girlfriend. Thank you for inspiring us all
I have gotten in the shopping habit. I rarely buy and just love to look at all the pretty things but it still wastes more time than I like. Need to find alternatives!!
I'm trying to spend less money. But it's hard same time. But I know it's worth. I do love thifty my wearable and housewares as well. Love video and everything u do. Keep up great work.
My baby blanket has always been kept with my extra sheets. My mother made it when she was pregnant with me. It is handmade, quilted and embroidered. Since I don’t have children of my own, I had her stitch her name, my name and my nephews new born daughters name on the back. He and his wife were very moved by the gift. I am pleased it is being used again and loved for another generation.
Your hair is my goal! It’s absolutely gorgeous! I’m 35 and getting quite grey but I’m 100% ok with it. I am binge watching your videos and really enjoying them! Thank you!
I have a hard time letting go of items that are meaningful to me but my children have no interest in. I finally let go of my dishes and then bought one very beautiful plate to eat off when I am by myself. It is such a wonderful feeling to enjoy eating on my plate and my children won't have a bunch of dishes to get rid of when I go.
I just recently found you and enjoy your content. I take a non-attachment approach to the things I have and have definitely become more mindful and intentional when I purchase things. I love to declutter so I will go through things periodically and donate what no longer serves me.
I really need to get rid of stuff but I'm overwhelmed by it which ramps up my anxiety and depression. One of my biggest problems is that I can't get rid of sentimental things belonging to my grown children and late husband.
A very enjoyable, enlightening video Connie - I have taken a lot from it. You are teaching me how I can be more mindful in my life and I thank you for this😊❤️
I was just yesterday thinking about those things I have moved so many times that have stayed in boxes, like those yearbooks? Why do I keep hauling them around? Trinkets that I don’t even notice anymore like certain Knick knacks? So very much jewelry! ( used to work in an office for years, so I have tons of jewelry! Dress clothes also. My lifestyle is jeans, simple dresses ( church). What is this uncomfortable fear of getting rid of these things that are in my closets yet never worn, nor seen?
Hi Mara! It's funny how we hang onto things, isn't it? Sounds like you are leaning toward change. Listen to your heart and instincts. They are always right. Happiness & Peace
I’ve become “not a shopper” and pretty minimal. My issues are trying to weed thru my past and declutter my basement filled with my old stuff, my daughters old toys, and family things I hauled home after parents and grandparents died or went to nursing homes. I also struggle with my 17 yo daughter that’s packed her room to the limit of collectibles, makeup, skincare, etc.
You are not alone. I too struggle with my 17-year-old daughter's room. She works and has her own money to spend on... everything. I try to remind myself that she is her own person. She is not me. And then I close her bedroom door. 😉 Sending you happiness & peace my friend.
I find taking care of the things I already have, even my home, car, etc. will keep me busy enough to help me curb my shopping addiction and it makes me much happier and more satisfied!
You probably get asked this a lot, but could you do a house tour? In the same way that “seeing” what you eat, helps to learn about portions etc, I would find it helpful, with minimalism to “see how you live” thanks for considering it!
Insightful wisdom, helped me calm down n look at things completely differently You would make an excellent counselor. Your presentation n soft tone n soothing music did wonders f me. You have a real 🎁💝 Thank you
First where can I find your Chi pudding recipe? Thank you for your videos. I am trying to let go of all I no longer value while find purpose and meaning in a slower simpler life. Your tone, vibe and authenticity definately resonate and feel like mentoring!!
I have many things from my grandmother and mother. I only have one son who I will leave all to. I worry he won't value them like me. So I am thinking about doing a list of people he could give to like nieces maybe if he doesn't care about all of it.
Hi Connie, your videos and you are so real and beautiful! Do you still use the same camera Sony Z-1 or something else to make videos that good! Thank you
Incredible! This is top-notch content. I stumbled upon something akin, and it was genuinely mind-blowing. "The Joy of Less: A Minimalist Living Guide" by Matthew Cove
Lmao I was watching your video and my favorite - and only - Jeffree Star Cosmetics mirror fell and the glass in it completely splintered Guess it was her time to go 😂 served me well especially since I’m nearsighted and I appreciate a handheld mirror to do my skincare and makeup in Now I get to see if I really value having a handheld mirror or can manage with one of my palette mirrors despite them being more delicate
Well o love to shop but it was a way to relax because I had a sick husband and I was a care taker for a while I use to go to 99cents drift store street fairs garage sale .and some times mall but I don’t like mall because all the stores are expensive and I did have the money for the items . I love kickback frames make up and pillows I love tea cups and dishes but I had bad habit when I bought the stuff the I felt guilty because my money was gone . I use to to book a fair and by tons of books I read some but at one still in boxes in the storage that I have to pay every month, I love white clothes but I don want to get rid of my blue beans I gave red jackets and I were the in occasion like Mother’s Day or valentine. Shoe I have more sneakers than dress shoes . I n love pijamas long shorts and every color I’m a pack rack with tea shirts , underwear I’m fanatic with every store . I like skies but on a while I have 3skirts. Coat I love jackets and winter coat but no heavy one because I don’t work I’m retired I hardy go out when is very cold. Long dress I have one I can’t stand a closet full of fancy dresses it a waist of money whe we by a long dress and stays in th closet for 2/3/5 years when we try on don’t fit the we can’t sell or give away because it out stile no body wants it Make up I use one kind I don’t mix my colors. I were when it needed. I Cary a lipstick with me and eye brow pencil. At my age I don’t nee to much make up. My hair I was blowout and keep simple I love hair 🧢 And scald and long Jewelry and hand jewelry like bracelet Hand made of beeats earrings I like the n Medium.depends on occasion. Sock I lot them white or gray and black . I don’t like thick sweters I feel trap . I do like tight clothes only for exercise not to walk Around the hood i think is not my way to go out in the street. I don’t like rain coats it make feel like a detective, 😆 😮
Please someone in the group help me. To sell each and every item in your house except for a few required things for your living is very difficult and very cumbersome and very time consuming and alsol you don't want ppl. Coming visiting ur house to see items before buying and disturbs your routine. So please suggest how to discard items ASAP
Why when somebody talks about minimalism or a simple lifestyle... They talk l i k e so s l o w a n d m o n o t o n u s... ... I love your content but I can't listen to this... Whyyyyy
Like you, clutter drains my energy, and I love clear clean spaces. But what do you do when your family love to hoard their possessions and gadgets etc ?
Connie, I am reaping the benefits of the work you do. Chia pudding does indeed make a healthy and delicious breakfast, especially with added walnuts, raisins, and cinnamon. And thanks to you, I am now making my own deodorant, body butter, and facial moisturizer. I feel more creative and more well. Thank you so much.
Yes... shopping as a form of entertainment. A hard habit to break in some cases; not a good idea; better to go see a movie, take a walk or hike or some sport you enjoy. I am older and have done the Swedish Death Clean, letting go of yearbooks, a dry corsage; concert tickets; items were only special to me in the past. Those type things mean nothing to our children and Grandchildren and don't want them to have to deal with all of the stuff I saved someday.
I am new to the idea of minimalism. I have been working on a new mindset and am beginning to declutter. I am finding myself becoming more content as I stop and give thanks for what I have. I have less financial stress because I buy less and I am finding simplicity reduces my stress.
I also am experiencing a new mindset. I pull things out of the cabinet and ask myself, "why in the heck does this seem important to me? I never use it! What emotions have I attached to this thing that makes it hard for me to give it up? Is it to impress others? How silly is that. Might I need it someday?" It is quite a struggle sometimes.
You have beautiful eyes... I am an 58-year-old man. I switched to minimalism about 1 year ago. Now I'm living on 14 squaremeters, including the bathroom... Here, in this small area, there are quite enough space for 3 large freezers and a large refrigerator, and even a treadmill! I need the freezers because I follow the raw carnivore diet, i.e. I only eat raw meat and raw offal, for example raw liver (the natural multivitamin!), raw kidney, raw brain, etc. This diet was very good for my health, for example, I lost weight, and my deep depression also disappeared. And meat is cheap if I buy a whole animal and then I cut it up, then I eat it nose-to-tail, so I need 3 freezers for that. But I still feel like I have too much stuff. I try to fit everything I own into a single, albeit large, military backpack, and maybe even a handbag. Because I have set my intention that in 10 years at the latest (but maybe sooner) I will go to the wilderness and live there close to nature, without electricity and stress... I have been diligently learning all kinds of bushcraft tricks ever since this idea came to my mind. For example, making stone and bone tools, preserving meat by drying, etc. I have also already bought a top quality 4 season tent, it is in my backpack. I don't need much luxury, for example, I've been sleeping on a hard surface for decades anyway. I don't even need a musical instrument, I can whistle melodies beautifully, and I've also learned Mongolian throat singing, which also suits the primitive lifestyle I want to follow. Probably you can understand now, why it is my nickname here that "Carnivore Caveman". If everything fits in the backpack, then wherever I go, everything will always be with me, which means I WILL BE FREE! And you don't need a lot of stuff. The more someone knows, the less he has to carry, i.e. the more he has in his head, the less he has to push on his shoulders... Since this goal of my life was formed, I AM HAPPY. And since then, every day I try to learn something new that brings me closer to my goal. My motto: You'll never live this day again, so make it count!
I just found your channel yesterday and have been binge watching. Your videos really calm me and inspire me. I love the scenery that you show as well. It really makes me want to get outdoors more! 🥰
I grew up in a home where shopping was the norm. I liked it when I was younger, but I’ve grown to dislike shopping. It involves three things I don’t like. Spending money, dealing with people and time away from my home. I purposely bought a very small home, and I will not clutter it up. I didn’t realize I was becoming a minimalist.
I'm 62, and I swear...I could get rid of 80% of the stuff around here and would not miss any of it! My goal for 2023 is to sell stuff. There is a lot to be said for contentment.
