10 Steps to Become a MINIMALIST

Being a minimalist starts with challenging society.
Minimalism should be the easiest decision that you ever make in your life. The hard part about minimalism is that it goes against what society tells you that you will be happier with a bunch of material possessions. Minimalism is simply, "living an intentional life with less." It's where you think on your own, challenge the norms, and make decisions to be content with less."
I believe that becoming a minimalist starts not with de-cluttering, but with challenging society. In this video I discuss the "10 Steps to Become a Minimalist."
1. Realize that the norm is toxic
Society gives us a very toxic script to live our lives that involves accumulating a bunch of material possessions and getting in a bunch of debt. This script leads to stress, clutter, and a lack of control in life.
2. Understand that over consumption is what makes the norm toxic
The main reason that many people are forced to live this toxic script is because of over consumption. When you consume an extreme amount of possessions and spend all of your money, there becomes this need to make more money. This involves selling your time in order to make money.
3. Realize that over consumption is not who we are
We have gotten to this extreme level of consumption in the past few decades and this is a relativity new thing. This level of consumption moves us further away from humanity as it is so inwardly focused and is not who we are.
4. Understand that debt is the modern form of slavery
I think one of the biggest forms of freedom is having the ability to say "no." When you have a bunch of debt, however, you lose the ability to tell people "no" because you owe something to someone. It is important to avoid debt at all costs as it takes away from your freedom.
5. Understand that many problems are self imposed
Life is complex because we have made it complex. Many problems that we have in our lives are self imposed and can be avoided by living an intentional life. When avoid the problem through minimalism, you avoid having to fix the problem.
6. Realize simplicity is the true way to solve problems
As life get more complex, we create complex ways to solve the problems. The issue with this is the more complex the solution, the more problems you create. I think that the true way to solve a problem is through simplicity because then you avoid creating more problems.
7. Realize that life is better with less
Society tells us that happiness comes from accumulating a bunch of stuff; however, I think this path leads to clutter, stress, and debt. When you declutter and live more intentionally, you begin to realize that life is better with less because you have less worries.
8. Realize that money isn't the only cost to possessions
Possessions do not only cost money, but there are many costs of possessions after the purchase like upkeep, clutter, and stress. The problem with having a bunch of possessions isn't just that you spend a lot of money, but that there are many other costs that will stay around as long as you have the possession.
9. Realize that time is everything
You can make more money, but you cannot make more time. If I am going to spend my money on one thing it is going to be to control my time. I can simply control my time by spending less and saving more. Then I will have less of a need to make money.
10. Understand you're not going without, but you're learning how to be content
The problem that many people have with minimalism is that it involves questioning the norms of society that you need a bunch of debt and material possessions to be happy. Minimalism, however, is the journey to find more contentment in your life with less.

[@Michelle_Emm]

When each of my grandchildren were born I didn't buy them gifts, I opened a bank account for each of them instead and deposit money every week. By the time they reach 18 there will be enough to buy a car or travel overseas, whatever they choose.

[@workforyouraims]

Good idea but what about inflation? Maybe it's better to buy them silver.

[@Michelle_Emm]

@@workforyouraims nope. They will be grateful for whatever they get, regardless of inflation. No-one knows what the future holds, what will be will be.

[@tiffanydaniel6094]

Becoming a minimalist is one of the best choices I’ve ever made.

[@pattykake7195]

Totally agree….except I couldn’t give up my 10 guinea pigs….🐹💝

[@youtubeboi855]

As someone who's recently gotten into meditation, I can tell you that "living intentionally" runs so much deeper than just solving money problems. It can literally be the difference between being at the mercy of every negative thought vs being in control of how your thoughts and emotions effect your life. Great video as usual Austin! Keep 'em coming 😁

[@amydecker6207]

I just read this to my husband twice. Those are some powerful words.

[@youtubeboi855]

@@amydecker6207 I'm glad you got value from my comment ☺

[@RealLifeHope]

Conscious living. Powerful.

[@James_36]

I really struggle to meditate I do not even know how you go about it, any advise? I feel it will help me make better decisions and get away from impulsive decisions

[@elizabethchurchill1216]

Great video! A few months ago I got rid of everything I own, including my car, and moved to Costa Rica where I’m living a very simple, inexpensive, happy, healthy life. Just a reminder that not all debt is frivolous or unnecessary. Fifteen years ago I was diagnosed with stage IV cancer and ended up saddled with half a million dollars of medical debt. Part of the reason I chose Costa Rica is that health care here is both excellent and affordable.

[@karlabritfeld7104]

Omg, how did you ever pay off that medical bill?

[@cyliarabothata8857]

Hi Elizabeth! Congratulations on your big bold decision; it says a lot about how much you appreciate life and prioritise your health. I wish you well with your health issues and remember that God loves you. Lots of love from South Africa❤

[@joannedibben2352]

I just want to wish you health and happiness always you sound like you've done the right thing for you take care🌈🌈🌈

[@bunny_smith]

Your debt was unnecessary and frivolous because we have a profoundly broken health care system with political leaders who have no will to fix it. So you and others like you suffer while industrial insurance and medical care gets rich at your expense. It’s a disgrace.

[@rebacarmack8335]

Fifteen years- awesome- getting rid of the stress may be your cure. Stay well

[@melissaguevara724]

Another amazing video! I agree. Living with less is SO much better. We live in a small home that is easy to clean and maintain. I often sit out on my porch in the early morning to drink my nice coffee I make at home. I don’t have a fancy car 🚗 or really anything fancy and I absolutely love it! So much peace and contentment. 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@luciagonzalez4899]

Amen to that !!!

[@beverlys.peacockmccranie6522]

That sounds so awesome!!!

[@joannedibben2352]

Sounds a lovley life well done🌈🌈

[@grifsfoodandtravel]

This is awesome. Yes, I lived a minimal lifestyle and now I retired early. For all of you out there, minimalism is something to seriously consider if you want to be financially independent.

[@youtubeboi855]

Seems like you achieved the coveted FIRE status, congrats! If you don't mind sharing, did you ever feel like you were depriving yourself of conventional comforts along the way?

[@grifsfoodandtravel]

@@youtubeboi855 Funny, I didn't know what FIRE was. We have lived a retirement lifestyle for over 15 years, being debt free and financially independent. So we never deprived ourselves of anything. That is why living a more minimal lifestyle is so beneficial.

[@juliehoot3916]

Totally agree. As a true minimalist, living the life, I have discovered in myself, I would rather give my money to charity, world organizations, saving our earth, wildlife, than give my money to Starbucks or McD. Started packing lunches, coffee, on excursions and give that money to USEFUL organizations. Feels real good. I suggest everyone give it a try!

[@simplicitygirl2]

"Debt is the modern form of slavery" - yup, thats at the core of all our problems. Austin for President!

[@ElAgustin]

Natasha for vice president!

[@ClownCash]

Especially the never ending debt the government dictators have placed on the citizens.

[@davidjenson7773]

All our possessions have voices. My last 10 years have been quieting as I lessen possessions no car smaller home less clothing less interior clutter. My life is easier and now QUITE. Be as simple as we can we will be amazed how happy and uncomplicated our life's become.

[@shayleeann7481]

Yes! The ‘silent to do lists’. Plants ‘remember to water me’, extra clothes, cups, etc ‘don’t forget to use me. Clean me. Put me away.’

[@TheGayStoic]

The freedom to say no … preach buddy. You got me with this one.

[@doyeworrell1680]

I love all your videos. I made a lot of these mistakes in my younger days but I wised up and now I am 63 totally debt free and life is so much better. I love the freedom to say no I don’t want to do that because in the past I would agree to go along with something because everyone else around me was pressuring me to conform. I have a lot of friends that are casual or social friends but I have a very small circle of very close friends that accept me the way I am and truly love me, I don’t have to pretend to be a big success or have the biggest house to be their friend.

[@stevebubar6129]

I’m 53 and living like u. Real friends don’t care what u have and don’t have. Less is best! Austin rocks

[@Lunay08]

I love this video Austin, thank you! As a minimalist, something Im trying to do with my life is to not have anything in my home that I dont use or value. If I dont use it, its gone. If I dont value it, its gone. I know that if someone came into my home, they would say that it has too many bare walls because I dont really like having a lot od wall decor, and im perfectly okay with it. The peace I feel is incomparable

[@vanman798]

As insightful as you seem to be, I'm sure you will appreciate this quote: "Human beings have the capacity to learn to want almost any conceivable material object. Given, then, the emergence of a modern industrial culture capable of producing almost anything, the time is ripe for opening the storehouse of infinite "need"!... It is the modern Pandora's box, and its plagues are loose upon the world. Jules Henry"

[@tinaparker3178]

Yep people can't let stuff consume them. It was something hard for me to learn but I am grateful I did 🙏

[@cajunjamis9001]

@73, I wish someone was around to tell me this! You, my friend are 100% correct.

[@kevinfestner6126]

My next steps to minimalism is to declutter. I've been at it for three weeks. It's paper that is the bane of my life. I think you can live simply with a Lamborghini as long as you buy it in cash, and if that is your intention, then buy it, but don't buy a vw, then an audi, then a mercedes, then a ferrari, as the gateway drugs. Besides Lamborghinis repair costs are ooo lala. Go for what you want. Everyone is different. Personally, I agree with you about an expensive car. I like my scion xA I bought in cash. I do always view your vlogs at least twice, bec they have good, positive messages with actions.

[@georgiaanderson7025]

Life is better with Less.. 😊 thank you

[@ameliahanson]

This is sad but so true. Ever since I was in my early 20s I have always questioned why is everyone fine with working 5 days a week? I said to my partner “who made this up? It’s not a rule, you don’t HAVE to live like this”. At the time, he thought I was crazy but as we’ve started to embrace financial minimalism, I think he is starting to see another way. We’re working to pay off our mortgage early, then we’ll both reduce our working week. It feels good to be working towards something other than acquiring more STUFF

[@omalleysmith9100]

I was just saying to a coworker today that if I won the big lottery jackpot, I'd actually have no idea what to do with it as there is literally no thing that I want in life. I'd most likely give a lot of it away. My coworker was listing off fancy cars, houses, clothing... NO thanks - I wouldn't want any of that stuff even if it was free. I'm happy with exactly what I have.

[@Michelle_Emm]

I feel the same. I am going to receive a pretty large inheritance from my parents and I have no idea what to do with it. I have enough, I don't need more. I will probably give most of it to family.

[@noreenn6976]

I'd buy a small home with it, tired of renting. Then do some traveling to visit friends, family and national parks.

[@Michelle_Emm]

@@noreenn6976 I've never actually rented anywhere, I bought my first house at 17 (a very long time ago). Currently have a little house near the beach, been mortgage free for two decades. I used to want to travel, been to a few countries but I'm really content to stay put and just visit local areas.

[@noreenn6976]

@@Michelle_Emm mortgage free, that's awesome.

[@omalleysmith9100]

@@noreenn6976 that sounds like an awesome plan.

[@jodeslippe3962]

Your videos are thought provoking and filled with truth about our modern world. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. You make a positive difference!

[@ElAgustin]

Thank you!

[@andersnielsen6044]

Most important advice will be to tell people to start loving them self and to invest and work on that first of all. It does not matter if you want to be a minimalist or a maximalist or anything else, it all starts within yourself.

[@vanman798]

Love your insights! You are a wise man. In step 3 you seem to mention that overconsumption is relatively new thing. However, it is interesting to realize that way back in 1835 Alexis de Tocqueville pointed out how into overconsumption Americans where at that time. In his book "Democracy in America" (1835), he states: "They [Americans] cleave to the things of this world as if assured that they will never die, and yet rush to snatch any that comes within their reach as if they expected to stop living before they had relished them. Death steps in, in the end, and stops them before they have grown tired of this futile pursuit of that complete felicity which always escapes them."

[@fafa1648]

Step #1 is what the U.S. educational system trains us to be, and trains us well -- to be consumers. Debt at high interest for things we don't actually want = happiness and working until you are 80 (or dead) for those things is actually a good thing!

[@janebaker966]

That was enjoyably challenging. Every word of your analysis is spot on and correct. I'd like to add my perspective on this. Being several decades older than you I've experienced the "vibe" of the decades in which this "consumer" idea of life was growing. I was born in the mid 1950s so really the 1960s decade was my growing up years (worse luck?),there was good and bad. I'm speaking from a UK perspective. My parents met and married in their late 20s so were in their early 30s with us kids. Pretty well all the other parents in my neighbourhood were in their early 20s,that makes a huge difference. At home our ethos was very much of the 1920s and 30s the impressionable years for my parents. All around us though all those other families were getting into the vibe of the times and acquiring stuff,stuff that had never been available to working class people before. A family car,white goods for the kitchen,a television,even by 1970 and greatly daring,a package holiday to Spain. I'm not saying this was bad in itself and to be honest it's much nicer to live in a neighbourhood where everyone cares and tries hard than one in which people are content to lie on the sofa in filth and drink all day. (Seen that lifestyle too). Now I'm asking as regards to the situation we now face of rising living costs etc has the need for consumerism gone. Until we had really efficient tech by which I mean computer programs,the internet etc,people,us,actual physical bodies were needed to do most of the work involved in keeping society running. Whether you were an early morning cleaner in a lifestyle store (loved that job) or a filing clerk in an office someone was needed to physically be there and move stuff around. Now as we know lots of stuff can be moved around by a few taps on a keyboard. Even pallets of stuff can be moved around in a warehouse and one man can run a big printing machine. Which means high unemployment or lots of crap jobs or maybe it might have occurred to the Elite (we blame them for everything now,lol)less people. I mean if you don't need units of labour any more maybe you no longer need to encourage them to stay on the Hamster Wheel by dangling cheap gew gaws before them. By which I mean that house in the suburbs,that car,that holiday. Who decided you had to slog your guts out for forty years and rarely see your spouse as he/she is doing the same but different shifts to you just to have a home. This is just my personal theory but now they've got ALL THE MONEY they don't need us. I'm now of an age where I'm legally allowed not to be in the workforce which is just how I like it because,yes,I'm lazy and selfish (but God made me that way!) Now we (in UK) are continually being told of imminent price rises,food shortages etc were being subtly discouraged from being "consumers" but not in a good way. Also our government are doling out "free money" to help with the cost of living supposedly. I'm very glad that I don't qualify for any of it only I see it as dangerous. One day they,or a following government will want it back,in cash or kind,it's true that being in debt is the first step to slavery.

[@miguelmartin4326]

Thank you for your thoughts. I am 68 and I am from Spain, although I have been living in th USA since 1978. I thought about what you said about vacationing in Spain. My family could only dream of vacationing in England. I enjoyed all your thoughts and perspectives on life and its conditions back in the 70's. Than you for sharing. The world today is engulfed in a very opresive enviroment of negativity. I am very grateful I grew up(not very much, I am only 5' 4") LOL, in the 70's. The Beatles etc. I wish you good health and joy in your life and the strengh needed for the times we are living in.

[@spellerlittlewing]

Great video I've been a minimalist since childhood What a adventurous free life

[@miguelmartin4326]

I really like what you said. Thank you

[@susanjmcfarland]

You are a natural on camera with such wisdom. I enjoy all your videos. Gracias.

[@luckyone4881]

Great content as usual Austin! You speak out of my heart!

[@lisaboston9162]

It's so much better to avoid debt. I went to community college then PA school at City college and I'm so happy I have no student loans. My younger colleagues are all in debt up to their eyeballs because of student loans for PA school. So much stress

[@evecadet2120]

Gravitating to your lifestyle Austin! Thought provoking!

[@luciagonzalez4899]

I downsized 10 years ago selling the big home and the boat and the stuff!!! I never want to own a house again!! I can save that money and grow wealth with out the stresses of lawn care, pool maintenance, and other huge household expenses...just put this money in an index fund and enjoy my freedom!!!

[@DavidSweetnam]

Can i ask, do you rent then? I’ve often considered downsizing although i already live in a small place. It’s just that my last place when i was travelling was 33m and that was enough (perfect location, which was/is more important to me). Back home I’d look for 45-60m. And then as you say, invest the rest!

[@noreenn6976]

I would love to own a small home, my rent has gone up 33% in the last year. I want out of the renting treadmill.

[@DavidSweetnam]

@@noreenn6976 That’s true too. During the pandemic in Australia rents fell in the capitals but now are going up too high, plus renters don’t always get treated well. Landlords can throw people out ‘just because’ but it’s not fair when the renters do everything right (some don’t but most people just want a fair deal).

[@marcusfieldfield4069]

Too many great factual Austin quotes in this video to even list... remember everyone " Debt is slavery slavery is debt ! "

[@keekee8760]

I really enjoyed watching this video😀. Thank you for sharing .

[@miguelmartin4326]

I heard a very rich man being interviewd and he was asked when is enough enough, how many millions/billions is enough? He answered that it was no longer the getting of the money but the thrill of getting to the goal. He was adicted to that feeling, not to the getting the money. I want to be adicted to needing less. Wish everyone wisdom and good health.

[@max3334441]

Really love your videos!! Thank you so much, more people need to hear this and the world will be a much better place if most people apply what you say

[@BanjoPixelSnack]

I’ve just discovered your channel, Austin, and I want to say I really like your style. I find a lot of minimalism videos incredibly long-winded (ironically!) and a bit dull but you have a really engaging style and I’m loving it! I’ve been on my minimalism journey for the e past two years. I went vegan and stripped all animal products and junk out of my diet, then I went low waste, I’ve given away over 60% of my possessions and I’m now working on the trickier possessions that have emotions tied up in them so I’m working through a lot. I have some debt from a house renovation but only 4 years left on that then I’ll own my house outright and be debt free (by then I’ll be 43 so not bad going in my book). Then I plan to reduce my working hours. I currently work 4 days a week but want to go down to 3. Then I plan to have more time to write (I write short stories) and travel and hang out with the people I love. Minimalism is the life!

[@ElAgustin]

Thanks!

[@CoreyHinde]

Love your work mate, epic. Keep going and STICK IT TO THE MAN!!

[@tericarter2512]

You have inspired me. I’ve collected so much clutter. Taking pics in the middle of the night to list and get rid of it!

[@davidfirth1436]

Mega, as ever, Austin. Keep going!!

[@alejandrobalderas7484]

Unintentionally, I have led my life as a minimalist, I did not know at all about the subject, however, I like it and I will apply it in my day to day. 👌🏻☘️

[@DesertMav]

I do like to have nice things, but I make sure to buy quality over quantity. I'm almost debt free and learned a lot of lessons in my 20's.

[@justinellison4117]

Shantaram is spectacular. Great call out there.

[@noreenn6976]

Agree, the script is toxic. 1:36 work until 65 with 2 weeks off per year. 2 weeks doesn't leave much time to travel and visit friends and family

[@luciathefemininewoman]

I was thinking of doing mindfulness and minimalism together for money, material things, social media, the internet and everyday life. I want to incorporate it to live a healthy and mindful lifestyle. I am hoping to take baby steps to become a minimalist. Thanks for this video. Things I can do to incorporate mindfulness to money is to control my shopping habits with mindfulness and minimalism. For example, do my hobbies that doesn’t cost money, taking care of my health, taking care of my mind, body, and soul, meditate or exercise, etc. Also gratitude is great to use in minimalism is being grateful for what I have over the material things. Also, I believe consumerism is source of materialism and I think that the solution to it is mindfulness and minimalism. Although minimalism isn’t for everyone it’s good for your mental health, finances, and life. And I believe minimalism isn’t about having less or more it’s a mindset of being mindful and conscious with your spending and shopping habits and live your life with less stress.

[@joycegonzales4994]

Smart young man

[@waggytail289]

Great channel, insight and advice. Thanks.

[@stanbogdanovecz1300]

I so agree with what you say. I have always lived this way. Retired at 62. Never had any debt. Net worth probably about 400k...

[@KS-xz2rq]

Brilliant ideas to get started on a journey to true happiness.

[@tomd720]

Great life advice. Too bad our parents and teachers never tell us this .

[@pattykake7195]

Unfortunately most of them were part of the consumerist mind set…💸

[@danicegewiss862]

We have been weeding out our stuff for a few years. Every year I decluttered the year+1. In 2021 I decluttered 2022 items. We still had way too much despite doing all of this. This year I decided to get rid of everything that we don't use once and for all. I'm down to about 6 or 7 pair of jeans. I still have a lot to get rid of. My father in law died. We got the tiny life insurance check and paid off two credit cards. Our remaining card is dropping like crazy. By decluttering our stuff, cleaning takes very little time. Our house looks more homey and comfortable with so much less in here. It really is better with less. I work one hour daily on my business. I'm under very little stress as a result. I don't have more than an hour to work daily. I have a 6 month old puppy who won't be a puppy much longer. Thank you for understanding why I quit my job. My neighbors constantly gossip about me. I'm tired of it.

[@HerCupOfCOZY]

Austin, this video is Superb!!!!

[@rejaneoliveira5019]

Just found your channel and I am really enjoying your content. I truly resonate with your ideas. I hope your channel keeps on growing, you have such great information to share. Thank you!🙂

[@ElAgustin]

Thanks!

[@doreenlamothe9278]

You rock, Austin!

[@MrGilperc]

Que tengas un buen dia. When you say que tengo, you're telling yourself to have a good day.

[@Rocky_Anunnaki]

Thanks for sharing your genius mind with us. 🔥👑🔥

[@ElAgustin]

haha, thanks!

[@suuslilly]

I am thankful to have come across your videos. Spend a couple of hours watching and listening. I want to change my mindset into living simple. Enjoying things I have. And ya mismo😅. ❤

[@Melinamiu007]

Appreciate your perspective

[@markk221]

You sound like George Carlin ... A place for my stuff ....lol.so true. very good video thanks

[@ElAgustin]

haha, I have actually been thinking about his jokes when I am making these videos. I think George Carlin and Dave Chapelle are more philosophers than comedians!!

[@angelagreen6955]

Thank you Good night 💤😴

[@horaciot8277]

Genial el video, como siempre 😁

[@narrowview286]

Hey Austin you are so good at what you do Very helpful sessions for me

[@karzaaa]

veryy good video. well done 👍🏻

[@minicraftylady]

I found a great channel..watching you from Taiwan..You made realize something..Thanks for sharing this awesome video...

[@yasmin__tg]

thank u for this! watching from brazil! 😊

[@freeatlast7262]

Thank you so much for being bold enough to call this out for what it is. Debt is slavery. Also, so many other minimalist channels seem to be a bit apologetic to this consumerism by saying 'well, minimalism is not about the amount of stuff you own but more of a mindset of making wise decisions about what you buy that gives you real joy and happiness', true but I take this a bit further. Minimalism is really exactly what it says, having less stuff. I've seen people who call themselves minimalist but still have an enormous collection of stuff. The truth is every single item you have requires energy and commitment to maintain. I had to learn this the hard way because even when I thought I was a minimalist, I still had to re-evaluate and get rid of more things as time goes by. Some people will say but I love my collection of stuff and as long as I enjoy it and it makes me happy then that's okay, although that's true, it's not minimalism. And I know a lot of people don't want to hear that.

[@Michelle_Emm]

As a person with over 250 books (all secondhand) I absolutely agree with your comment. I am minimalist in almost every aspect of my life except books, I love them but I am starting to feel like they own me rather than the other way around. Books are my minimalism kryptonite. But the crazy thing is, if my house burnt down I would not be upset about losing them. 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@freeatlast7262]

@@Michelle_Emm I understand. It's very difficult to get rid of attachments to some things. Even if just some small thing in a junk drawer that been sitting there for years and doesn't take up much space and hasn't been used for years. Why do I have it? My wife had the book problem for years then finally gave them up for online reading but everything is still available digitally. In a way you still have digital clutter. Thousands of files and emails in your inbox. I've got to work on that. I've got to unsubscribe from all those notifications constantly bugging me. It truly is bizarre, this conditioning to have stuff.

[@Michelle_Emm]

@@freeatlast7262 I cleared out my digital clutter just this week, including deleting over 4000 photos! No-one needs that many photos! I closed my Facebook and Instagram accounts, cleared out over 1800 emails and unsubscribed from every single one. Books are my next mountain to climb.

[@freeatlast7262]

@@Michelle_Emm That's wonderful! I did some work on clearing out the photos. More to go.. You've inspired me. Take care.

[@YasinNabi]

thanks for the great explaination :)

[@dinky448]

Saludos y gracias por la información que nos brindas, felicidades excelente canal 👍

[@cathyallshouse2572]

My goodness....so wise! Thank you.

[@ElAgustin]

Thanks, Cathy!

[@fatousolan6911]

I come and cross this video but first time ever someone is talking Sense I have to subscribe

[@ampac888]

I am totally agree with you and you speak Spanish !

[@psychologie1054]

I'm a financial minimalist. With my little expenses I can afford to work part time. However I have become sort of addicted to saving. I still work fulltime to keep putting lots of money away. It's weird that that now I kind of feel like I'm cheating on myself and minimalism in general. Anyone else feeling this way?

[@leicasun]

Thanks!

[@ElAgustin]

Thanks!!!

[@plappin]

The other cost we might not consider when we make purchases, is the time and energy it's going to take to get rid of an item when we no longer want it, particular if it has significant monetary value. I could clear out all my clutter in an hour if I were willing to simply put it in the trash. Even hauling it to a thrift store (assuming they were willing to take it) is an investment of time -- forget about selling on eBay, where you also have to photograph everything, communicate with prospective buyers, pack it, bring it to the post office, and then cross your fingers it arrives in one piece and the buyer is satisfied. (And then eBay takes its cut, natch.) I also recognize that going down the rabbit hole of trying to find a home for every item I no longer want is a good distraction from dealing with other, murkier issues, like, What do I want to do with the rest of my life? LOL

[@JJ-mn8md]

God Austin you just shocked me into reality. I don't have the freedom to say NO. This is really sad....

[@Michelle_Emm]

I'm really impressed that you read Shantaram, isn't it like 1000 pages long? I think I might have to listen to it on audiobook, I've heard so many people recommend it. I've talked to my 15 year old grandson about the debt cycle and living a minimalist lifestyle, he said he never intends to buy a house or be in debt. He is leaving high school at the end of the year when he turns 16 and going to trade college which costs $8k a year. His plan is to become a deep sea welder working on pipelines. The pay is enormous and he will only have to work 3 months a year to make enough to get by. He plans to live in a van and surf every beach break he can.

[@ElAgustin]

I'll be reading Shantaram throughout my life. It's a true masterpiece and I even follow the author on KZbin as he always inspires me.

[@Michelle_Emm]

@@ElAgustin I picked it up on audiobook yesterday, enjoying it so far. I have never heard of the author and not only am I Australian I lived in Melbourne in 1980, the year he escaped from jail! 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@temismontenegromontenegro9319]

I have just subscribed to your channel and I am fascinated by the great content and inspiring ideas for saving. I am following the playlist all the videos and they are awesome!!! I am from Brazil and almost all the people are financially illiterate to the point that if something costs 3.99 reais ( our currency ) and you ask How much is it? Everyone says 3 reais!!! We can't read prices!!! I am sooo happy for you and I am positive that your channel is one of the best ever!!!

[@ElAgustin]

I appreciate it!

[@PsiologaLilyValentina]

Hola Agustín, tienes toda la razón del mundo.

[@ElAgustin]

Gracias, Lilycita!

[@lawrencegreywolf1397]

Mahalo !

[@christmasblast09]

I love being frugal and for me I try to justify my purchase by how many times I will use an time. Delaying gratification helps

[@KrisVic91]

I cycle to work, I use a nokia brick phone, I just got a ps2 and will get a small tv to use it on. Games for it are like 50p. Or I can just trade games in over and over again.

[@angiep8217]

I used to always bring something home especially when I travel. After my mom passed I saw how much stuff she accumulated so it made me think twice about buying stuff

[@shabsa2637]

🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻❣

[@PrepperJAC]

Smart man.

[@targaryenking8877]

Good one amigo!! Why am i dying to live, when im just living to die ;) is this a song ;)

[@meowmeow1stgen668]

Sticking it to the man!

[@ElAgustin]

because MTV took out rock and roll! MTV won't take me out!

[@tolrem]

"Who is rich?He who is satisfied with what he has." [from the Talmud]

[@jasminmesa1811]

👏👏👏👏

[@JudelovesRiver12]

I don’t really agree so much that we impose our own problems on ourselves. I do think we should take accountability for what is in our realm of capabilities. I can’t necessarily avoid debt at the moment, even though I have been living intentionally. I pay off my credit cards but then my family needs groceries or my kids need shoes so I have to use my cards for necessities because I can’t afford them right now. I can’t simply trade in my car because my credit score plummeted and I don’t have income so I can’t even refinance, even though this time last year my credit score was in the 700s. Life takes dark turns quickly and there’s only so much that can be done. My landlord messaged me last night while I was preparing dinner asking about rent and I told her we would pay it the next day but it’s the next day and we’re still $800 short on rent. I’d love to get a job but I don’t have anyone to watch my 2 year old so I’m just doing all I’m capable of at the moment.

[@allardvanderstarre5238]

i also had a few costly vintage guitars; ihad to insurethem...insurance isnt exactly cheap; now i have acouple of cheap Harley Bentons...more fun...

[@Sypeth]

👌

[@jrb1737]

❤️

[@vanyaaleksandrova9735]

I decluttered 90%of my clothes left 30 books.Felt happy. Kon Mari method But you speak as a 🏫 schollar

[@raunholt]

He who will not economize will have to agonize - Confucius

[@labri-off-grid5365]

This might’ve been the best video I’ve seen you do? You got all the major points and also dispelled some of the myths around that dreaded word “minimalism” :-)

[@claudiapizanti7685]

💓

[@richardt1792]

As I have been thinking about money, I realize that it helps to think about money, large and small. Warren Buffet talks about how he enjoys grabbing breakfast at McDonald's. Based on how the market is doing, he decides whether to spend $4 on breakfast or $3. I am kind of that way too. Today the market is doing great. Maybe I'll splurge and get the Domino's 3 topping medium size pan pizza for $7.99.

[@candymay75]

❣️

[@rlud304]

What you describe is the norm in the US, other modern countries offer a better quality of life and a lot more time off. Just need to once again remind Americans that the US is not the world ( I’m American btw)

[@allardvanderstarre5238]

i was a maximalist-collecting records (Vinyl); recently i started to sell them, quite a few i never played, sothey can go

[@DowntimeDad]

From what I have seen, it seems many people get addicted to the tiny bit of excitement and happiness that comes with each purchase until they're completely owned by stuff and the process of getting more stuff. It truly is an addiction for many people. We should own (some) stuff. Stuff should never own you.

[@donaldlyons17]

If you can't stop buying how is that possible?

[@DowntimeDad]

@@donaldlyons17 We'll, it's like eating. You have to eat, but if you're obese then maybe it's time to admit there is a problem and start to consume based on need instead of trying to get another dopamine hit.

[@donaldlyons17]

@@DowntimeDad What I still think people who need dopamine to function even if they need to have a serious problem. Without the reward why would they do anything. I used to live with people and they decided to not pay their bills because "if you can't pay now you can't pay later either." I say b.s. minimums is not the reason. Minimal stuff people can win tight fights but for winning long term income generation is way more important. I find in dishonest to argue behavior or knowledge matter if income is not being produced first.

[@DowntimeDad]

@@donaldlyons17 You definitely have to have income. I don't think anyone is saying you don't need that. But I think you also have to consider the value of what you use your income on and whether or not that is needed or simply wanted. I think it's good to have wants if you have your needs paid for, but you still need to not let your wants get the better of you. I think that's pretty much what the video is about. You also value different things as you get older. Some things such as time with family and friends has more value for me as I get older while fancy cars really don't mean as much. I can easily say no to a fancy car now that I might've had a hard time resisting when I was say 25. 😆

[@donaldlyons17]

@@DowntimeDad Interesting and I guess people values change but I am not sure it is age related.

[@christinejewels2944]

so are you