10 Ways I Live More Frugal in 2023 | Financial Minimalism

#Minimalism #Minimalist
Today I go over some things I do to save a dollar here or there. I hope you enjoy
Hey everyone. My name is Nick and here on my channel we talk about minimalism, and ways of living an intentional life. I try to make my videos as informative, and fun as possible. If you want to join this adventure, make sure to subscribe and we'll see where this journey takes us.

[@kimgordon3695]

1. no spend activities 2. single event clothing over 3. glass water bottle 4. save loose change 5. content with what we have 6. shop price/value 7. home Cafe 8. earn rewards 9. eliminate debt 10. Sell what you don't use ✓✓✓

[@Sarii-lu]

This kind of comments are the best🤓 #saveTime

[@leticiapalomino5319]

Thank you

[@oliverpoppinz4340]

Stay unmarried (for a man) : beats all the others combined.

[@kimgordon3695]

@@oliverpoppinz4340 🤣

[@pcgaminghelp]

@@oliverpoppinz4340 since I moved in with my girlfriend, I've been able to save &invest much more.

[@universallove280]

I raised my kids minimalist and it’s adorable to see how amazing they are, simple and kind. They like taking walks and wear the same clothes over and over while their teenage peers waste money their parents struggle to afford. Also part of minimalist living is Silence. A quiet life. Eliminating drama and extras and people that come with that.

[@NicholasGarofola]

That’s awesome!

[@asanta2023]

Yes 👏🏽 eliminating drama and extras and people that come with that.

[@jas_bataille]

Gosh is this true. My parents raised me just like this and I feel like I am much happier now than most people my age :(

[@mark9294]

@@jas_bataille So why the sad face then?

[@kevintheshane]

And nothing quite beats the smug satisfaction of knowing how much better you are than everyone else. :)

[@darrisnelson5223]

I was born in 1955. The term minimalism is somewhat amusing. Most who were raised in the 50’s and certainly prior, lived “minimally’. All of the home in our neighborhood were less than 1,500 sq feet and with a family of 4 or often, more. We all wore hand-me-downs and got one good pair of shoes a year. We saved for everything-credit cards were rarely if ever used. We grocery shopped one day a week and meal planned. We shopped for school clothes (two outfits) and underwear once a year. We replaced bathing suits and coats when we grew it of them. We mended our socks and had the cobbler repair our shoes. We bought in bulk and shared with neighbors. We went out to eat for rare special occasions. We NEVER ate at a fast food joint. Fruit was served for snacks and desserts were special homemade treats. Everyone knew how to bake bread. It’s just not that complicated. I do appreciate anyone striving for a simpler self-sufficient lifestyle.

[@phyjcb]

The first time I heard about minimalism, I thought: "That's how my grandmother lived."

[@Ocioca2024]

I'm a 31 yo and I live like that because that's what my 70 yo mom taught me. And that's what I'm teaching my 7 yo kid too. Minimizing consumerism

[@teresasmith2161]

Same. I was born in 63.

[@monocle8868]

This is interesting. I am Gen X and from a relatively wealthy family (Dad made 250K per month for decades). But I was raised like Boomer. ---- It does pay off; already Retired at 46 with three mortgage free rental home.

[@mamalovesthebeach437]

@@monocle8868 Incredible accomplishment!

[@StephenSmith-ge1qf]

Interesting to see someone living with less. I'm from a much older generation when we all had a lot less, and now I'm perfectly content to manage with very little. My total clothes expenditure in the last year amounts to 70 euros. I have at least 5 "no spend" days every week. I grow and store most of my own food. I have absolutely no debts. I pay for no streaming services, have no TV - just the internet. I'm probably little too frugal but have a very happy, tranquil and enjoyable life!

[@NicholasGarofola]

Thanks for sharing!

[@kimgordon3695]

Hello TWIN

[@charlenejohnson2187]

Not having too many things is so peaceful. No clutter / no stress 😊 Wearing the same clothes weekly means less laundry and makes decisions easier 💖

[@NicholasGarofola]

So true!

[@barba5537]

Frugal is sensible to a point. You still have to be having fun, treating yourself well. No pre packaged foods or takeaways is a huge savings. Home cooking best answer. But your feet have to hold you up for a long time so spend on good shoes. You spend 1/3 of your life in bed. Good sleep, good health. Spend on bed and bedding. Spend on things that bring you joy. $$ are no good if you get run over by a bus. It's finding a balance, works best. To frugal are never happy in old age.

[@virginialangford6257]

I get great joy from the security I have knowing there is nothing life could throw at me that would cause monetary problems or discomfort…it is not fun for some of us to go out to movies or meals..I have traveled around the world, have a very nice small house and have never dipped below a million dollars in my accounts since I was 37 yrs old …25 years ago

[@honeybeejourney]

"I've learned to be happy with less." I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.Phillipians 4:12

[@omalleysmith9100]

My loose change jar adds up fast here in Canada with loonies & toonies. The last time I rolled & counted all my change I had $328.00. Its definitely a good tip!

[@dreamchaser5758]

Canadian change sounds so fun

[@MadameMinima]

Reading and going for a walk in the woods or in our local park are my favourite free activities. At the beginning of my minimalist journey, I decluttered so much, that I started selling the most valuable things too. Although I made some money this way, I now rarely sell something. I mostly donate the stuff, because I simply want it out of my house. BTW you had recently commented on one of my videos, that maybe you wanted to try "less talking", well I have to say I really like your voice: it's calm and soothing. So keep going like this 😍

[@NicholasGarofola]

Thank you so much!!

[@FrenchTwist]

Library books, movies, tv series, separates in clothes..tops/bottoms, walking the pup, wash & detail car at home, cook great meals at home. Cut the tv "cord". Shop thrift stores.

[@cjhoward409]

My husband and I go kayaking 1-2 times a week. The lake is just a 15 min drive from our home. It’s cheap entertainment and exercise too 👍🏻

[@NicholasGarofola]

Love that!

[@ritalynb7070]

I find I adapted to frugal living much easier than I expected. I am on my 4th no-buy/low-buy year. If it isn't a necessity, I don't buy it.... I live a very simple life. I work less than I used to. I hike or swim or cycle. I read. I play with my dog. I make all my meals at home and take a lunch to work. I invite friends over for a meal instead of eating out. I don't have membership or subscriptions, so less to "manage". I am considering getting rid of my smart phone and going old school ....

[@kimgordon3695]

#THIS ^

[@emmel4fun]

You lost me at the smart phone.

[@moldymoss3991]

I’m too addicted to KZbin and I’m never actually enjoying yt shorts I might join you lol

[@lilianab4756]

This is great!❤😊

[@ritalynb7070]

@@emmel4fun service is really spotty where I live so half the time there is no internet. I can't use it to hot spot and I can't rely on it in emergencies. I live on the edge of a cellphone/internet dead zone 🤷 in a rural area. The dumb phones work better here and are more reliable.....

[@kikiy2972]

I really like the idea of no spend day. I don't spend money everyday but it's nice to be aware of it and maybe extend it to a few more days.

[@XxAlex530xX]

I’m Adventist and we don’t spend money on Saturday’s, so I thought I was cool he does something like this. It’s prettt good having a day where you rest and don’t worry about spending

[@kel3678]

I feel pressure at times because my teens friends have parents who take them on lavish vacations and we just don’t do that. I hope he’s not missing out. Thanks so much for your inspirational content!!

[@NicholasGarofola]

The grass is always greener it seems, thanks for watching!

[@mamalovesthebeach437]

We never went on any vacations as a family. While I do think that time together as a family is important, "lavish" is not and IMO sets kids up for unrealistic expectations. I have seen this first hand...

[@Chaotist]

Something I discovered is to be truly satisfied I need to reconnect with my essential nature, with Spirit. As I let go of everything, including thoughts and emotions, I dissolve into pure Spirit and then all the feelings of lack are gone. There is this contentment and happiness without a cause. I wish everyone the opportunity and then a way to learn to stay in that place. Cheers

[@ryanflores285]

I love your honesty, man. The sincerity is felt

[@annaless9751]

"Those crumbs might start to look pretty good".. love these self-deprecating moments.

[@jamessmith1652]

I remember before Starbucks expanded globally, you'd never see anyone clutching a coffee on the way to work. All of a sudden everyone had a new habit of dropping obscene amounts of money on coffee throughout the day. I just drink instant these days, one doesn't have to experience "the best' of everything.

[@jas_bataille]

Depends on the culture! In Italy, everyone have been waiting in lines to get an espresso shot. But yeah, Starbucks did changed that in America, and their coffee is disgusting and overpriced af!

[@kimgordon3695]

It's amazing how home brewed coffee @ .21¢ a cup smells & tastes... especially w your BF!

[@ralph9768]

Frugality is freedom. If you haven't read it I highly recommend Vicki Robbins book "your money or your life"

[@MPAutomotiveCrafts]

I did buy a $280 chair after owning 2 or 3 $30-40 ones and I'm very pleased with it 10/10, but I went to the office depot to try a bunch of chairs, to my surprise there was no other customers in the store, I guess more and more people are shopping online rather than going to a brick and mortar store but I think some items you have to see, feel or try before purchase.

[@rafaelmatsumoto]

Congrats, really good content. I’d also add a few things I consider helpful: - Keep your current car for a few more years - Don’t change phones often, most phones will be really good for 4/5 years - Try to eat at home more often - Try to drink more water. As beverages in general tend to have a higher margin

[@YorkshireGirlinDarwin]

I love your calm, quiet approach. You’re awesome ♥️❤️🇦🇺

[@NicholasGarofola]

Oh thank you!

[@PistolPete1984]

I grew up in the 70’s learning to be a conservationist and did so camping and learning to leave a small footprint. Great video I play 30-45 minutes of hoops regularly great activity, great tips thanks! Home coffee is important, Going out to eat is another savings killer too

[@re8746]

No eating out at all.

[@simonhodgetts6530]

All good tips. I do live by many of these rules. The one thing that life has taught me is that when I do need to make a purchase, it’s due to something wearing out, or being too costly to repair. I always try to buy the best quality item I can afford, then making it last as long as is feasible. Being content with what you have around you, not needing the latest gadget or trinket is a great quality. I also like the satisfaction gained from surrounding myself with good quality possessions that I know will last a longtime. My other tip is also to buy second hand when possible - I’ve saved an absolute fortune doing this - I’ve also found that older items are generally better made - maybe not on trend, but they will outlast the newer objects.

[@airheadusmc3821]

I gave up my home with a mortgage and bought a fixer upper trailer in the country. The trailer in the country has a well so free water. I dont drink the water just use it to shower with and wash my dishes.

[@Peppermon22]

I’ve done this all my life. One extra thing with the reviews. Put that item in a cart or on a list. Come back to it later and see if you really need it or if it is an impulse buy. Always ask yourself. Is this a want or a need? Is this going to make me happy in the long run or am I chasing a short high?

[@brandi8040]

Haha yes! This is something I definitely do. It has helped me save so much money! (and guilt!)

[@DavidDavisDH]

I do a "no spend day" at least 2 days a week. I already paid 3 credit cards off so far, it really does make a big difference. I do most of these things, minimalism does make you think different about money. I'm going to just have one credit card and one debit card.

[@Blueberryminty]

these tips were rather an insight into consumerism and how to spend more then necessary. i grew up (in europe) under the poverty line, but never felt poor. my mother could apparently be called a good budget keeper. spending money to have fun was a foreign concept to me, it's something that happens sometimes, occasionally you choose to do something that costs money, but it's rather rare and it doesn't feel as if money has any connection to fun for me. all the other tips i also grew up with and are just normal. buying a drink somewhere was an ocassional splurge, buying new clothes was when the old fell appart (or rather making/mending clothes as my mother is a seamstress),.. only the saving of change was offcourse not a thing for us, change got used up in the next weeks grocery shop. and now that i'm middle class and could save change without needing it directly, cash money isn't used anymore. :p now i understand better how we could save almost a 1000euro a month from one middle class job income while raising two kids, while other families had nothing left from their two jobs income. it's the small, but incremmental and the unnecessary spending that creeps up. I don't call myself frugal as frugal sounds to much intentionally, while for me it's just the way i'm raised. i get that it's not as easy as just spending less if you grew up with different habits. it's a change in mindset and finding ways for getting satisfaction and enjoyment without having to spend money. and knowing what you can do yourself and for what you have to hire others to do for you. like setting a cup of coffee. we installed our own kitchen, but our tile flooring was done by a skilled worker. i can mend my own clothes, but our shoes are made by a shoemaker. i've noticed that being poor often brings people towards learning a whole set of skills that others would have just let payed workers do. it's something a frugal person will probably start doing to. nothing is as rewarding as learning new skills either way, and many can be learned in a frugal way. it's not necessary to spend a lot on tools and materials. many tools can be borrowed or shared with others and materials to practice can often be found from garbage or second hand stuff.

[@johannathorisdottir2456]

I love the thing no spending money! I have stopped spending or like stopped impulse or shopping out of boredom. I´m seeing my account and my creditcard bill not getting out of hand. And it feels so good cus i have everything i need. Great videos

[@NicholasGarofola]

Very true. Thank you Johanna!

[@mikew8573]

Nicholas, LOVED this video and with all due respect but it's almost like I wrote it. We're definitely on the same page. I've had my grandfather's shaving mug for years and filled with change ongoing. One time I saved over $800.00 and money went to redo my front yard landscaping. Recently had to replace the windshield on my car and lo n behold cashing in a couple of bags of change more than paid for it. I be into good health, getting sun, etc. I enjoy the outdoors without spending $. My background is in finance and it fit so well into whom I am personally; a minimalist from young age, conservative with spending, eating at home versus restaurants and with exception to maybe once a month coffee at McD's, I like my coffee at home. I feel so at peace, mind and soul are thinking/feeling clear. No stressing nor anxiety. Home is becoming too big but is very sparse. Less is best.

[@nocathedral]

Lots of great advice.. One other thing I do is to note down every single purchase I make, even tiny ones, and add it to a monthly spreadsheet (I don't even note down what it's for, just the amount).. at the end of the month you can really see how those innocuous tiny purchases add up. Also if you work regular salaried hours make sure you know your post-tax hourly rate.. and how many hours it takes you to pay your mortgage, energy bills etc. every week.. linking unnecessary purchases to your wage helps to rationalise your purchasing decisions ("If I buy that item of clothing then that represents x hours of my labour.. is that a worthwhile trade-off or would I rather spend it on something else/save it).

[@Gizgirl70]

Very much agree with the dept clearing: the amount of interest you pay on credit cards and overdrafts is mad. And actually, the credit card companies do not need your interest payments; a few years back I offered my 5 credit card lenders to pay back the full amounts owed if they take off the interest fees .. and every single one agreed to the deal. Also, if you can: do not have an overdraft on your current account and use a prepaid credit card that only carries the amount you have actually paid onto it. If shopping online keep your faves in your basket, then go back a few days later and see if you still want them :)

[@vanessamay3689]

Excellent comment

[@kaidrewry552]

Nice vid. When being frugal, I think it's important to have in mind the reason for the frugality.

[@likelyladsss]

For it is I want to use earth's resources as little as possible,,,, I'm not really good at that,,,, I only could reduce on clothes/shoes/bag,,, still need improvement in so many other area's

[@deannadove3505]

Great ideas. Coffee for me is mandatory though. I need it like I need water haha. I am so impressed with you, Nicholas. It's refreshing to see a guy talking about this subject, minimalism and saving money. There are at least a gazillion KZbin channels that are great but they are all female which is also nice but it is refreshing to see a male creator talking about these subjects. Thank you.

[@angelabaril104]

Hello Nicholas I also live in Florida and I am down sizing and decluttering and I just found your channel. You have the same mentality as I do and it is refreshing to hear you speak. I will be a regular on your channel so you can keep me uplifted as I process things out of my life and accept all the new rewards this will gain me.

[@NicholasGarofola]

That is awesome!

[@charleshurstreinvention3959]

Now does Nicholas look like he is suffering? A new trend is the "minimalist lifestyle." Living by bare bones. A way to not only cut many expenses but also to save money which will grow wealth. But is this good for you? As I told my own subscribers, I contend that instead of having an existence of "minimalism," living in a shack and a sleeping bag, you should adopt the mindset instead. In other words, you don't have to deprive yourself and suffer to have the minimalist mindset which will give you money to invest. The minimalist mindset person will buy only what he needs. He won't go in the winter without a coat but will by the cheapest one that does the job--not the designer label. He won't buy a 50K car when he makes 80K a year. He'll buy the 15K Honda Civic used one and save money on a lesser car payment, insurance and gas. He doesn't go to TGI Friday's every week--he goes once a month and grills at home the other three weeks. He brings his coffee from home and doesn't spend 4 bucks twice a day at Starbucks down the street from his office. See the point? You don't have to live like a monk. The minimalist mindset just cuts down on the unnecessary. If you do this you will find that not only do financial problems disappear but you will grow a ton of assets on the side. Hope this helps someone out there---Charles

[@geraldinefanon2565]

Thanks for the inspiration ;) I also try the "day without" to challenge my use of things. This made me realize I often use things by habits without really needing it.

[@NicholasGarofola]

Love that!

[@luciagonzalez4899]

Great tips and actually how people over 50, like me, where raised.....this generation thinks its a sacrifice but a simple life was common back in the day and created more peaceful & content humans.

[@hilo5901]

Isn’t that the truth?! Six of us grew up knowing the ropes with a one income working Dad.

[@HeadStronger-HS]

We had a lot less plastic junk in the 80s that is for sure.

[@yogitagowekar703]

Hey Nicholas, just came across your channel. The video is great. Even my grandparents n parents both have taught us to be minimalist. The points you mentioned are so relatable. Keep going. Thanks for the info ☺️

[@bridgettetraveler658]

I have a couple of no spend days every wk! I learned from 2008 if I don't have to go out or spend money I sit in my house & find something to do in the yard! I wash my own car! I don't go to beauty shops or nail shops! I pay family members for messages! We live close to a beautiful beach so we don't have to take many vacations!!!

[@regenaguinn]

At 8:34…you are so right. “If I need to spend money to be satisfied, there is a much bigger problem.” Probably the biggest takeaway of all.👍

[@kathrynp7595]

Great Video, new subscriber here from Sunny San Diego 🌸

[@stephenloiue3336]

This guy…. Driving all over, got a gaming desktop, designer sunglasses, monitor stand(who does this), under armor clothing, daily hair gel, Nike shoes, expensive backpack etc etc. You sir live like a king, the opposite of frugal. On an off note.. I did like that wooden headboard.

[@madialford1874]

Oh my god right! What a potato head

[@YashBhika]

New subscriber here! Loved this video, and I love the vibe of the channel.

[@hilo5901]

I’ve been staying in every weekend this Summer! I park my car on the weekends. I checked out a book! It’s not that interesting but it’s a book. I’m making my coffee at home. I buy the small decaf once in awhile, a change from medium and large. I have no credit cards. I sell unwanted items or donate. My clothes are thrift. I’m happy, content. I’m saving money through the envelope system and it’s been great!

[@erakkovaatainen148]

Perhaps I am too frugal? Out of 28 days in February, I spent on 9 days and I live under poverty line by design. So I had 13 days at that month with NO SPENDING at all. I recommend this, they have everything you want, but they have nothing you need. I literally live under 160 euros a month after rent. I only have 4 bills to my name. I can not throw a dime to capitalists no more.

[@brandi8040]

I love how you mentioned toward the end, if you feel the need to spend money to be happy then there is a bigger problem at hand. ❤️ The endless loop. Yes. Gosh, yes. - Coin jar! Yes!! Growing up my mother had a pickle jar that all the coins went into, and each year that was our Christmas money! I've carried on the tradition with my own family! It really helps us not go totally overboard with Christmas shopping. - I also love how you mention using credit cards responsibly. It requires discipline, but can really beneficial.

[@NicholasGarofola]

Love all that! Thanks for sharing 😄

[@brandi8040]

@@NicholasGarofola Haha, anytime! Thanks for making such great videos!

[@Delala]

I love these!! The last one is for sure the most important!! And I also love doing free activities! 😊 A no spend day would not be necessary for me. I usually only spend money one day a week (on groceries) 😅

[@NicholasGarofola]

So true!

[@paulmarshall690]

More than EVER! Totally absurd. Let’s Go Brandon!

[@mrmaaical8727]

I really like and appreciate your videos, I became minimalist 2 years ago when I lost my father, I was depressed for almost 6 months and then life never became the same, ever since I’m always trying to improve myself as a minimalist, your videos are helpful

[@NicholasGarofola]

🙏🏻

[@karatheyaroxan6852]

great and simple advice, I love that I stumbled on to your channel. I look forward to more content. Have a great weekend.

[@NicholasGarofola]

Awesome! Thanks so much

[@amyc5913]

I just rebrewed coffee grounds on the stove. It was better than the first time in the coffeepot

[@hfnoskin8458]

Thank you for your video. Calm and gentle but no less inspiring.

[@jolinebrooks4262]

I do the same thing with credit cards - I pay them off in full every month, but I have certain cards for certain purchases so I can earn the most amount of rewards for the purchase.

[@naomipereira2749]

Ur videos are changing my mind and life..thanks a lot😁.

[@NicholasGarofola]

Glad to hear that!

[@cathieharris6122]

My favorite dates when I first met my husband was a picnic in the park. We did that often.

[@ecofrugalgirlvegan7710]

I love how you are realistic ❤💕. Bless you

[@5966ramesh]

Nice video. Kind of a refresher :). We have been living all of them except for 'No spend day of the week'. We seriously want to adapt this habit ... atleast no spending 3 days in a month. Thanks Nicholas for this beautiful video.

[@kiwikim5163]

Yoga, calestinics, Meditation, writing a letter (cost of stamp), join a choir or civic musical group, most meetups, clean house, mow lawn, call up a friend, volunteer. Camping.

[@karenpapaleo5284]

5:04 I love your sense of humor 😂

[@NicholasGarofola]

Thank you!!

[@leticiaurbach1720]

Crumbs on the keyboard lol.

[@jovabarris]

Similarly, I now refrain from spending money on activities. For instance, I now hike (which is free) rather than dine-out w/ friends. And I rarely retail shop... I always stick to a set budget when shopping. Although, I rarely save loose change; my partner keeps loose change in our safe for future deposits. I absolutely love being a Grateful Homemaker as my partner is the primary decision-maker in our household. Thus, I'd rather keep to a budget when shopping compared to sustaining full-time employment externally from the home. To add, I began utilizing our Keurig versus visiting Starbucks for pricey beverages loaded w/ sugar and less caffeine. I input my cell number at grocery stores to accumulate points per transaction for future redemption. And my partner and I rarely borrow money as we've chosen to follow the path of financial freedom for early retirement. The minimalist lifestyle is highly beneficial but requires major adjustments.

[@MargaretBieler]

I have no spend week. Monday-Friday. Saturday and Sunday I get gas, groceries…. This has made be plan and food prep. Huge saver. Last week I ran out of laundry soap and I made myself wait.

[@niteeshbihade1789]

Thank you! Videos like these are so helpful to me - I struggle to cut down my spending.

[@insanemainstream3633]

During lockdown and this time of inflation, I splurged and got a good quality mountain bike. Not only does it provide me with much needed exercise since I work from home but saves me gas when I use it for groceries. Another useful tip, no tattoos they are expensive and not needed.

[@marycarty5879]

Lol

[@JohnSkyLey]

What’s wrong with tattoos?! 🤦‍♀️

[@insanemainstream3633]

@@JohnSkyLey If you can afford them, more power to you. I'd rather put that money to good use.

[@brandi8040]

My husband and I agree with you on this one! I have a tattoo, and would like another, but I simply can't justify paying for one anymore. I'm not dying without it. So I suppose it's not that important. lol

[@RobertCreating]

The ‘realize what a piece of a garbage it is’ happens to me all the time hahaha thanks for sharing man!

[@NicholasGarofola]

Even when I do research.. I buy trash

[@erakkovaatainen148]

When I started to consume less, I started to go out with trashes less. Literally you will reduce trash visits from once a week to once a month.

[@bagobeans]

Good video.. I bought a coffee percolator. Cheap and no coffee filters to buy. I use the coffee grounds for my plants.

[@Trucnguyen1226]

I'm not exactly a minimalist but I find buying quality products help since they last a long time, especially when you love that item and intend to keep that for years.

[@silverlining7298]

Also I used to go to coffee shops as I'm single and wanted to be around others. I've never met anyone in a coffee shop haha. But how would someone single meet new people or a partner being minimal. I need more no spend days ❤

[@scottishzoomer]

One thing I discovered was to stop the habit of buying a daily newspaper. Not only did I save the purchase cost of the paper itself, but it avoids the temptation to pick up feel good snacks etc that I didn’t really need anyway. Interesting video, thanks.

[@kseniav586]

I already do all of these things, but you are so handsome and well-spoken I spent nine minutes glued to the screen anyways

[@NicholasGarofola]

You're too kind 😅 thank you so much!

[@MvrKhan]

Same here! Haha..

[@JoeSimmer]

Didn’t realize I do the “for occasions purchases” Going to keep that in mind. Great video. Nicholas!

[@charlenepierson9893]

I don't pay people to do things that I can do myself and I learn skills from the internet, this saves a lot of money and gives sense of accomplishment. I also look at all money as opportunity funds which should be used wisely with the understanding that a small occasional indulgence such as a lunch with a friend or an ice cream sundae, feels glorious when living a frugal lifestyle.

[@bevanbuckwheatshea5520]

Good idea. I do my own housework and gardening which saves $$ and good exercise

[@GeckoHiker]

The music is incessant. This video feels like a never ending lament, complete with w constant crescendo that never reaches a conclusion. This seems to be a new trend with newer videos.

[@tshadow6]

A library card is invaluable. My county’s libraries each feature a specific activity. I have a professional recording studio, sewing shop and a complete woodworking shop available to me with my library membership. County parks are also excellent places to spend time, not money.

[@ISEEKSPACE]

I could do better, but I do consider myself a minimalist--I still have things that I can donate (I don't sell the things I get rid of because most people are in need) that I no longer use, but to be honest, I've been quite lazy about it. In truth, the most I've gotten out of living with a more minimalistic mindset is the peace, tranquility, and abundance I've acquired. What's crazy is I've never felt that I've made any "sacrifices" for the things that I no longer deem necessary. I haven't given up anything of value per say; however, aside from not living paycheck to paycheck, I haven't gained anything more materialistically either. I live in the studio of the parents of one of my friends and although sometimes I feel like I've been here quite a long time and I've out-stayed my welcome--even though I pay rent--( it's been about 4 years now) they've never given me a reason to go and I'm very blessed in that respect. I just figure as long as I stay put and they don't ask me to go, well I won't, which, in turn, allows me to continue saving money. I barely have debt, just a car I'm financing that I'm about to pay off and after that, well it's really just my bare necessities. I don't shop anymore and I've stopped going out--its too expensive and I have a really bad habit of treating, so I've taken quite a step back from doing so. My friends will disown me soon, I'm certain because they complain that I'm being too drastic, but the truth is, I want a solid foundation in my life, which I've never had. I'm the happiest I've ever been and the most peaceful and it's because I've learned to let go of material possessions mostly. I meditate, now that I don't go out after work or weekends, I exercise a lot more so I feel healthier. I mean, I feel good about where I am and although I'm still financially reaching goals, I'm not living paycheck to paycheck anymore. Sometimes, I don't even remember when payday rolls around and it's mind-blowing.

[@vincegredo]

Very cool video. Having a single expensive hobby that I prioritized above all things turned me into a financial minimalist. I never spent money on coffee shops, expensive food, or vacation travel. I watch free movies and listen to free audiobooks the majority of the time, and I listen to all of my music on KZbin. Whenever a penny can be pinched you can bet I’m there to pinch it. I sometimes wonder how different my financial habits would’ve been if I didn’t have that hobby

[@northstar4851]

What is the hobby, and what % of your income is spent?

[@jebyjames606]

Cycling I guess😬

[@Leafwood-kk9fc]

I impulse bought a 600-dollar jacket that I was going to use for my trip to Iceland, and now I'm in the process of returning it.

[@erickdraws9563]

another tip: dont focus on what you cant do. but what you will do with that money to grow and dont restrict yourself if you have the money for it! you dont wanna treat money like is scarce you can save money and make it feel abundant! and never cheap out on good shoes and bed. make your own coffee and more... i just wanted to make clear that you should not thinking in terms of lack, think in terms of abundance and it will flow

[@jas_bataille]

I'm starting to realize that my parents raised me as a "minimalist"... people usually don't have a change jar or a water bottle? Wait... and they buy clothes for a specific event?! Really? Damn.... I wear my dad's jacket usually. If I want to get a nice piece of clothing, I go to the thrift store. The only time when I walked into a new store was to buy a pair of shoes at 70% off that were discontinued for 30 bucks, Lacoste branded and everything. I still used to spend way too much on technology tho... but I realize that my upbringing really helps me because I'm doing a lot better than my peers in their mid-20s now by not needing much. The "no-spending day" is a great idea!!

[@kristi94]

The Brita water can is amazing. Ours broke but we would get glass bottles...fill them up from the can and always have plenty of water ready in the fridge. No plastic.

[@KETODiamond]

I accidently feel into the habit of using a water bottle and making my own coffee everyday :) Saves me a ton of money.

[@DarrenAllatt]

Using Credit Card reward points is the most expensive way to use them. You get the points at their dollar value, being less than 1c each. Save them and use them for “Reward Seats” on flights and accommodation

[@thorburnjschwegler]

Oh Boy the first one big time 1# Activities I've spent so much money and time on video games but now I'm reducing and being more selective. It's true that we all could do more activities and activities that are more physical and cost zero to less money. AND 2# Diet I started to buy more foods that are dried, canned or sealed packets. Foods like rice, pasta, beans, split peas, tuna and salmon ect. I would love to start a garden, a little farmstead.

[@garlandetheridge9902]

I thought I was the only cheap guy out there> Thanks for sharing.

[@williammaurer9450]

I just started using a flexible SS mesh coffee filter. No more paper filters. Always make it at home now, saves a ton.

[@beebsblue]

These tips are great. Something I aspire to as I try to adapt a more minimalist lifestyle ☺️

[@Jessieemira2022]

your voice is soothing to my ears lol . thank u for the tips

[@muddy1364]

Last time I cashed in my coin jar there was $474 in it. Love the channel.

[@nothingmatters298]

how long did u save?

[@vanessamay3689]

That’s cool 😎

[@deg262]

Ref the coffee. I've stopped buying coffee out just for me but if I meet up with friends or family I'll grab a coffee and a chat with them if we're out. I feel like I'm paying for the time spent together, and that is worth my coin.

[@kh884488]

Wow, these are some excellent tips. For top #3 if you want to save some more money, you can install a large charcoal filter under your sink - They're about $70 and last 2 years.

[@silverlining7298]

I'm really getting into minamilist lifestyle and buddist also. Clear mind and less clutter in items and the mind. My top spend is meals out on days off. I'd like to find more free activities for day off. I often to go golf range is cheap. I'd love to play basket ball x

[@georgeandrews2839]

I use a thirty day list and I am currently on a "money fast". Unless it's food, rent or other essintial I won't buy it. A cheap and easy way to declorinate water is to put it in a jug ( with lid ) for 3-5 days and let the chlorine rise out of it. I use one gallon arizona tea jugs as they are heavy made and keep nine in a row so I'm always using up the older ones and adding a refilled one to the que.

[@tips4truckers252]

Last one was so on point. I look at it this way how many times at high end steak houses do people complain about how it's cooked and want them to redo it. Never happens to me at wendys.

[@beckybeaver1988]

Thanks for sharing! I'm on my minimalist journey

[@Elenaensumundo]

I recently bought a cordless vacuum "for free" with my points. 😅 I needed it, but I didn't want to spend real money on that. And there were my points to rescue me!

[@madzieniza5812]

eating crumbs from the keyboard cracks me up! lolz! Thank you!

[@NicholasGarofola]

😁

[@normanmneri]

I think its time to have a house tour so I can learn what should be the best thing to have inside my house as a minimalist, 👌👌

[@marcelaparedes7032]

I saw the entirely vídeo looking for a smile. Thanks for sharing this spots

[@re8746]

I lost my job last year and it’s been hard to replace that good income. I’m still looking. Wife and I have paid off our home, paid off both cars and carry no credit card debt. While we live on her salary we are finding we’re doing ok. Yes we have cable tv. But we don’t eat out or shop any longer ie Target / Home Goods. Yes we grocery shop but we don’t buy any more junk food . No chips, candy or sports drinks / ice cream etc etc. Its a mind set.

[@dean4125]

i havent bought any coffee since I started the carnivore diet. I just drink the free coffee from work. without sugar lol. actually that diet has saved me an insanely amount of money plus I feel much better then I ever have in my life!!

[@AnnieGill7]

Loved this vid! I already do some of them, I like the “no spend day”