12 "Normal" Things I QUIT to Level Up My Entire Life

[@AtoZenLife]

Please give this video a like 👍 and let our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit betterhelp.com/atozenlife and enjoy a special discount on your first month of therapy.

[@joanvoss7512]

She is one of the smartest women on the web! Dejunk now!

[@janesally271]

People have told you several times this is a scam and you are still working with them, found some shame I know you want easy money but why do you have to help a horrible company to scam your iewers who might actually need help. Do you even care about the people eho support you at all?

[@xuiliajuicebox]

Last year I had six months of sick leave due to depression and burnout. I wanted to change my life after years of mindless impulse buying, and found your channel at the perfect time. I hope you know how many lives you save with your videos, you certainly changed my life. I absolutely adore you, and I think i've watched almost every single one of your videos. I hope you and your family are well

[@AtoZenLife]

I’m so glad you found me and thank you so much for sharing your story with me. Comments like yours are EXACTLY why I do this!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@Stopit77]

You must be a teacher

[@MrsPTarleton]

​@Stopit77 Curious why you say teacher? As a teacher I know we do not get paid for anything more than our accrued sick time. We are not eligible for any state disability because we do not pay into it.

[@joanvoss7512]

@@MrsPTarleton she just received a compliment IMO

[@MrsPTarleton]

@joanvoss7512 thank you for clarifying that it was a compliment.

[@robynwells8249]

Sometimes repetitive, mindless activities are good for our brains. Some of the most creative and intelligent people have come up with their best ideas when bored. I heard a neurologist give a talk about being concerned that people aren’t allowing their brains go into the bored, or wandering modes it needs. My best ideas and solutions come when I’m working in my yard, or unloading the dish washer. When I walk or exercise I never play podcasts or music. Letting my wander is one of the best things I do for myself. Our brains need a break.

[@OdinsSage]

That's why a lot of people have big ideas and aha moments in the shower.

[@elaynegiahoover436]

I came to the comments to say this. Let People Have Down-time!!

[@annahenselek6909]

exactly...stuffing every minute with activity sounds like the exact opposite of minimalism

[@emilywebster3965]

I like what Marisa said, and I also like these comments encouraging us to let ourselves be bored sometimes. I think we should use both principles in balance with each other. The one principle being to use time productively, and the other principle being to allow your brain some unstructured time. Marisa had a very long commute, total of 2 hours per day. The right move for her at that time was to learn Chinese during her drive. But as these comments are pointing out, we should not require ourselves to be fully engaged all the time. Have a balance that keeps your brain engaged sometimes, and also has some time where you don't have to be engaged.

[@kats9688]

@@emilywebster3965well said!

[@anotherpersonontheinternet4676]

I used to be greedy for my time. Driving ,cleaning ,chores I would listen to podcasts or at least music . But one day realized I/my brain need that "useless" time just to rest, have random thoughts ,relax and being mindful . I haven't given up youtube .still consume lots of content ,but sometimes take a break . Just driving gently observing sky,, road ,nature ,other cars is good . Doing cleaning and focusing on simple task feel good too. I guess like in everything, we need a balance .

[@ciaramcn]

Yes, I came here to say this. I've started taking a walk every single day no matter the weather and I mostly do it with no earphones in. My brain needs time to wander, just like my body.

[@jenniferpanther2979]

😂 As a self-acknowledged "girly-girl" who works for a sports charity, I'm in the opposite boat! I'm wearing dresses with my hair, makeup , and nails done while the other women are wearing shorts and tees with their hair thrown up in buns and no makeup. And you know what? It's perfectly fine. No one actually cares. We just are who we are. 😊

[@alejadr3580]

1. Consuming toxic content 2. Doing things with a passive mindset 3. Shrinking to fit in 4. Pushing myself to be more feminine 5. Not having a routine 6. Participating in diet culture 7. Ignoring the red flags 8. Avoid all kinds of conflicts 9. Feeling preswured to keep up 24/7 10. Full time job 11. Shopping for fun 12. Putting so much value on possesions

[@lilarose9348]

Thank you! No Time stamps are a dealbreaker for me lol

[@kelseygetz2123]

@lilarose9348 perhaps you could add them?

[@WIslamiclifestyle401]

thnks a lot

[@inihilisme1511]

​@@kelseygetz2123I think they meant in video, not comment.

[@rhiannonmarinaa]

I really needed to hear tip 4. I’m 26 and married, and the past few years I’ve really struggled with feeling I need to be more feminine. I am not comfortable in dresses, I would much rather wear pants and a nice top. I hate the way fake nails feel, I’ve never had a pedicure or a wax of any kind and my past friends always used to tell me I should try to be more feminine, but I’m quite comfortable with how and who I am and my husband loves me the way I am too. ❤

[@francoiselafferty-hancock5112]

Oh I hate fake nails too! I'm not a chicken I don't need talons!!!

[@Catplanty]

Fake nails are the worst! I „have to“ be more feminine then I usually am bc of my work (lawyer). I still refuse to wear skirts or dresses tho. I opt for nice flowy pants instead (which are also actually a lot more comfy than my denim. And no plastic nails. They just look cheap 😅

[@janismartinmooradian1312]

I just left a 26-year friendship. She became more and more demanding and more insulting. I feel so much better.

[@AtoZenLife]

That must have been so tough and emotional for you. 😢 Sorry you had to go through that as well - but glad to hear you’re doing better now!

[@jenniferpulskamp5592]

Oh hugs, that’s hard.

[@ronnie-lynn]

Thankful for this comment. I did the same thing this year. Around a 20 year friendship. It was so heartbreaking 💔 but now that’s it’s been a few months, I know it was what was best for me. When friends go from loving & supportive to insulting, rude, opinionated (about your decisions), where you are constantly defending yourself … you no longer have a friend. She became a mean girl.

[@seltzermint5]

I feel this. Currently drastically distanced from a friend of 30 years. Somehow in our late forties we have grown apart very rapidly the past couple of years. She became a grandmother and went off the deep end like a troubled adolescent.

[@Pinkbear20]

I like this concept of the joy of missing out. I am in my 40s and and have felt like I have missed out on a lot of things in life. I have mostly stayed away from social media my entire life but I decided to get an account to keep up with old family and friends and soon realized it was a one big place where everyone shows how wonderful their lives are and made me question my own life. I went back and deleted my account. I am back to being thankful for what I do have and the simple joys life brings me.

[@valerie718]

I deleted my FB account years ago for the same reason. You just helped me realize I was doing the same with Instagram so I just deleted that account too. Thank you.

[@jenniferpulskamp5592]

I went away on a short vacation, came home and quit my toxic job. I am a reading specialist and love my students but the toxic bosses and coworkers made it a terrible place to work. My partner and friends are relieved and happy for me and I’m happy for me too.

[@JadedMax]

I have to do this tomorrow. I like the work, but the boss loses it over the smallest things, even when everything is going well. It's a newer job, so at least I'm not that invested yet.

[@amg9163]

@jenniferpulskamp5592 I was put on a _"performance improvement plan"_ (PIP... aka, soon to be fired plan) for my past review after being with the company for a little over 1 year. My direct manager could find *nothing good* about my work and became a micro-manager, just miserable. So I started looking for something new, planning for when I would happily give notice. Well, it came sooner than I had predicted, and I was let go yesterday. I have to say, although I am annoyed with that manager (and hope he's not a jerk who will attempt to ruin my reputation) I ended my day feeling *very relieved and hopeful* for the first time in about 7 months. I will use a month or so to take care of myself and my home (both were sorely neglected from being exhausted and annoyed during 60 hour work weeks with no overtime pay...) I know I will bounce back, since I've been pretty fortunate to find new projects in my niche field pretty easily. 🤞🏼 And being relaxed and positive is a better way for me to interview instead of being stressed and annoyed. Thank you former (jerky) manager, for tossing me aside so I can make my life better! 😆

[@jenniferpulskamp5592]

I’m so sorry for your loss. Miscarriage is really hard emotionally and physically. I’ve had 4. I’m so glad you were able to have your boys. ❤

[@AtoZenLife]

I’m so sorry for your losses as well. ❤️🙏 And thank you for kind words!

[@francoiselafferty-hancock5112]

I'm so sorry for both your losses. The pain and sadness never goes. I'm a member of that club with my three too. Thank you for speaking up about this. The more people talk about it, the less people feel alone. Through my three miscarriages I was in really great health and eating extremely healthily, but sometimes miscarriage just happens. I think women shouldn't think miscarriage is because they did something wrong. I blamed myself for eating some chocolate during one of my pregnancies not working out and that was just ridiculous. We're lucky to have our son through embryo donation after seven years of struggles.

[@jeannewhitney3471]

Love that you landed a "10 out of 10" man by being yourself 😂❤

[@HeyLauraVan]

Virtual fist bump here for that comment! Love it! (Both hers and yours!)

[@AtoZenLife]

😉❤️

[@SaaraSofia94]

Or even better: "zen out of zen"? 🤭😂

[@AtoZenLife]

@@SaaraSofia94 🤣

[@ilTHfeaa]

i did too!! i mean we’re not married or anything but we’ve been dating for like a year and a half now and he does not care that he literally looks prettier than me 90% of the time lmfao

[@jenniferpulskamp5592]

I absolutely love that you talked about not being more feminine. If that’s not us, that’s ok! I am authentically me and you are too. That’s cool.

[@doriscassan6996]

Yes! JOMO! That happy feeling when you look at your calendar and there is nothing on it for some of the week!! Yay!

[@nicoleh3703]

Honestly, after watching so many of your videos, I realized that some of what I consider clutter would be best rehomed. I enjoy crocheting dolls that look like the casts of TV shows, and there are a lot of them. They aren't small either. I've been contacting people involved in the various shows, and just sent a bunch to the executive producer of one ❤ She's so happy and keeps them on her desk.

[@aj2thamaxx742]

8:26 this is excellent point because there is so much consumerism attached to “being feminine”.

[@Haphappy298]

30 years in a career and been retired for a year now. Decluttering my entire world. Glad I found your channel.❤

[@smithmusicstudies]

My first was a miscarriage too. I went to light duty as soon as I got pregnant again and left my job once my son was born. Best decision ever.

[@ifgenia]

For me quite often the most fun woman to hang around are those who have no pressure about their looks and appearance. Very little effort goes such a long way. And with this attitude you can be so relaxed and just a joy to be around. I went through both phases and seen so much toxicity in trying to be a better, prettier, more attractive, more successful. We are already enough as we are ❤️

[@audreyhuggins8822]

So eloquently said:)

[@audreyhuggins8822]

After 10 years, I finally let go of a "friendship." I was the one who invited my so-called friend over for brunch, lunches, dinner parties, week night taco nights, I brought care packages and food when she hurt her ankle and never once did this friend ever invite me over, bring something or even so much as a card on my birthday. I took me so long to really understand and believe I was simply being used for food!

[@BellaFrice]

So sorry to hear that 😢

[@maureenvandine7882]

Gaining this knowledge at a younger age is priceless. You’re way ahead of attaining peace and prosperity.

[@michelleprice5945]

#11! Yes, i stopped shopping for fun years ago when I decluttered our house!! Feels so much better.

[@RayTator]

I am so very sorry that you lost your baby.You are a very strong lady..I am 74 and I have learned so much from you. Thank you for taking so much time Making your videos. 🥰

[@Lisa-ee5ev]

You have had a tremendous amount of loss in your life. I'm so sorry. But so happy for you that you have found pathways to better health, both mental and physical.

[@AM-bm2xw]

So many great points in this video, Marissa! The point about "femininity" is SO relatable to me, I struggled with this most of my life until recently I decided to accept myself and define femininity on my own terms.

[@faydraa]

The courage you're showing by being an advocate of positivity while still acknowledging the hard or uncomfortable stuff (like crying, among a lot of other things) is truly an inspiration ♥ Thank you

[@kensiblonde4203]

I worked in journalism for many years. For a decade it was very responsible journalism. But as the internet took over and traffic became all important I was more and more pushed to do clicky rage bait stuff. Big reason I’m very reluctant to go back into journalism even tho I need the money.

[@jandkhilbert]

What a great husband - so blessed. I was a stay at home Mom for 12 years

[@wendygricken3369]

I agree with so many of your points. The best thing I did and continue to do is stay away from the negative people around me. All the negativity brings me down. We all have things in our life we can be negative about but we chose not to. It's just a "happier" way

[@wesleywinchester1890]

Same. People have used me so much. Now my kids are grown so I do not volunteer at their school anymore. I felt like I lived at their school. Same with church. It's always ten percent who do everything. And after divorce I had to cut off all my friends

[@HissNHer]

Hi, I stumbled across your channel a few days ago after watching lots of decluttering inspo. I turned 30 earlier this year and have had a major mindset shift just wanting to be a better version of myself and focus on what really matters. Thank you for your videos, they’ve really given me inspiration and I have to say that the comments section of each is just as motivating. What a community you’ve created.

[@Tech-Sam]

Wow. I feel justified in just bulk-donating and throwing away things instead of trying to sell them or give them away to local people.

[@AtoZenLife]

I have had wonderful, life-changing exchanges for the positive as well. ✨ It’s not all bad.

[@joanvoss7512]

I live in a rural county where driving to the donation center is not an option as I must rely on a ride, so "donating" to my recycle bin has helped me declutter this place without guilt. Nobody wants this stuff unless it's free lol

[@Firstfalconfree]

I much prefer dropping donations at the animal shelter or church thrift stores over giving to specific people anymore. I tried some of those buy nothing groups for decluttering, and while some of them went well, there were enough entitled people that it became a source of stress for me. They’d say they want something, and then expect me to bring it to them, or get some friends to take it to them. People would complain if I wasn’t interested in delivering my free couch to them, 2 hours away, for free. 😮 Or they’d act entitled in other ways, like demanding a free sheet set to go with a like-new free mattress. We still need sheets for other beds, sorry. 😂 Or the guy who wanted me to BUY him a new watch charger when I was giving away a last gen Galaxy smartwatch without the charger. It was like, dude, spend the $15 and buy yourself a new charger, I’m giving you a $200+ watch for free. My favorite was only tangential to the buy nothing group though. A woman in the group noticed that I had a farm, and she messaged to ask if I had any rabbits for sale. I told her I didn’t right now, but probably would have some in a couple months. She promptly told me she needed one of my rabbits, and she needed it to be free. I told her that I definitely wasn’t going to be able to do that, as they are part of my livelihood. It would be taking food from my children’s plates to give her one of my meat rabbits. I explained that the animal shelter often had low cost bunnies for adoption, but she said she needed a “pure bread”. Sorry, no. I eventually had to block her.

[@joanvoss7512]

I agree with you 1000 percent especially Point #1.. living with someone addicted to negative news is terribly challenging plus getting notices regarding narcissism from Quora... i am surrounded by nosy people too often as well which has caused a great deal of stress, so now i ignore them and indulge in enjoying my own company.

[@s.s.8029]

I can really relate to a lot of these things, especially outgrowing people/activities and ignoring red flags. I am so happy to be in a healthier place to let go and live my life. As a former people pleaser and push-over, it was hard to let that go, but it was so worth it. The pandemic really helped me put things into perspective and focus on what is really important to me.

[@MadisonBriggsArtchick]

Marissa, one of your best videos! I can relate to much of this. FYI I have always thought of you as incredibly feminine. I just got back from a wonderful trip and the time away gave me an opportunity to reset my priorities and get clear about what toxic things I have been allowing in my life. I send you love and hugs for sharing these trying, tearful experiences with us. You rock!!!

[@AtoZenLife]

Thanks so much for the kind words and support - I’m glad you were able to get away and find clarity! Wishing you all the best as you clear the toxicity away. ❤️

[@saraperkins8072]

I want to extend a very late happy mother's day to you and I hope you had a wonderful mother's day with family. I also wanted to tell you I always look forward to your videos each week. Update: I finished the major declutter and now its about maintenance. Get rid of trash in high traffic areas. One in one out. I replaced a saute pan and threw away the old one. I have also spent the last few months rediscovering my core values and what I find I need and desire. It has helped me set new boundaries and find the courage to live life without worrying about societal pressures or consumerism. Thank you for all your wonderful content. I am sure it has helped many people just like me to find peace and relaxation in their home after a long journey of decluttering even if they choose not to be minimalist like us.

[@AtoZenLife]

Thanks so much for the kinds words and support and glad to hear about your positive progress. Cheering you on, as always! 📣

[@craftingafamilydinner]

Thank you for supporting my plan to get away from social media and be more present with family and friends. We are also watching less news. So may great suggestions

[@chichita9202]

I now do not buy anything. My children are grown and I am retired and I find joy repourposing or making do and it has brought creativity that, like your comment about who you were and dressing a way you were not, that is more in line with who I am.

[@francoiselafferty-hancock5112]

Haha wearing my glasses and pony tail now ☺️ and yes i got my 10/10 smokeshow husband too (love your description ❤)

[@AtoZenLife]

😂👍

[@Beyondjustjen-mw7gt]

Love that you are learning Chinese in such a smart way! I surrounded myself with English speaking people when I first arrived here! And I agree with you on the routine route! Many good points you shared on this video!

[@kitw76]

The first one is why I stopped watching a lot of news. I will watch local news about 2 x week not any national news. It literally is doom and gloom. I don’t need it in my life. My parents watch the national news religiously. They can’t believe I don’t know what’s going on in the world. I say cause I simply don’t want to!

[@georgeedward1226]

The news is just history repeating itself over and over again.

[@dianasimplifies]

I quit watching news years ago and never looked back..so much less anxiety!

[@OdinsSage]

Our brains were not designed to handle that kind of large scale input.

[@donnajones542]

Marissa, I so appreciate your sharing your experiences, your emotions (when some of these experiences are difficult) and for sharing your authentic self. We're all in this world together, trying to do our best, starting, falling and getting up and trying again. Thank you for sharing your insight, tips, tears and humor.

[@Joce123]

One of the best things in my life is that you chose to become a Blogger.😊

[@kelseygetz2123]

Same! 🥰

[@openhearts5000]

Thank you so much for your vulnerability about your miscarriage. I wish you nothing but the best. You've had so much to grieve in your life already.❤

[@marajade4403]

Great video Marissa. I believe that you are very feminine - you are very pretty, graceful and have a lovely manner - i believe to be feminine one does not need to wear stilettos and fake lashes

[@susanlusk9584]

You have an interesting life story. Thank you for sharing. I was also a hospital speech-language pathologist and understand the stress. There are still not enough SLPs to do the work. I can think of may reasons why this is so. After having kids I stayed home 6 years and then worked in schools to be on their schedule. It was not the career path I dreamed of, but I made it work. Life is a series of "smaller lives" I tell myself. I'm not really reinventing myself, I 'm just moving onto the next phase. Meaningful quotes for me have changed from "bloom where you are planted" to "to everything there is a season." Life is good, but it is not easy.

[@AtoZenLife]

I totally get it - as a mom sometimes you have “make it work” moments like that. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences with me!

[@AnandaAtHome]

I can relate to many things you mentioned in this video. I hope everything is working out for your family the way you guys wanted them to. 🤞🏽

[@fredalearhinan6693]

Such a great video..i can relate to some of your points. Toxic friendships and mindless shopping 🛍. I realised that i am better off without someone who is toxic . I am still trying to kerb my shopping habit. Loosing more often but trying all the same.. i can live without a cluttered home but find it hard to pass up a lovely outfit or shoes.thans for your advice.

[@fillistine]

Oh I sm sorry to hear of your situation😢❤ But things are much brighter for you and your family❤❤❤

[@ZenNatureHub]

I'm sorry you had to face a miscarriage, it must have been tough. I'm happy to hear thought that you put yourself first. Now, here's something that may make you feel proud of the work that you are doing here. You mentioned a few videos ago that you listened to audiobooks. I finally decided to give it a go. I used your Audible code, my library account, and even my university card (to cover as much as possible). Well, that habit ended up being a keystone habit. I started learning how to manage my time and emotions better, and everything has improved in my life because of something as simple as listening to books as I do chores. So thanks (again) Marissa, for all the inspiration you bring to our lives!

[@AtoZenLife]

That’s amazing to hear! Mind sharing what books you have enjoyed with us? Cheers and thanks for all your support, as always. 🤗

[@ZenNatureHub]

@@AtoZenLife let me see. I started with Atomic Habits and moved to Eat that Frog, The compound effect, the Stoich mindset, the Power of Habit, Rich Dad Poor Dad (I know it's controversial, but I got curious), The One Thing, and about to follow your advice on Your Money or Your Life. I may miss some, but that’s the path 🥰 Also, my little content creator business has officially passed the $2k profit this month. So… true inspiration Marissa! Also, yes, it looks like you got a 10/10 Also also… I can’t wait for your “keys” update 🥰

[@Smallworld2024]

❤ i love you and i wanna ty for sharing. I stop using facebook and instagram. I start exercising again. I start to simplify my life for 7 months and i feel gr8. I am still working on decluttering even more. I feel more in control over my life, i feel confident i feel more spiritual. ❤ ty ty ty

[@mybeautifuldoggies]

Great life tips! Create a routine -- when life changes, and things fall out of one's routine, and our normal routine crumbles, we don't always realize that we need to create a new one -- I didn't 🤯! Actually, I was always overworked, too much to be done, not enough time to sleep, no rest, etc., for most of my life, then suddenly, laid off, had already lost my health, felt like I needed to rest a lot, and was easy on myself. Had also been through a lot of abuse and trauma through the busy years, and I was trying to heal. In the meantime, my life completely lost any resemblance of a routine. I'm going to start establishing one -- such a wonderful idea 💡! Thank you for sharing your life lessons 🙏. Btw, the video clips of your boys are precious 😍!

[@AtoZenLife]

Thanks for watching and sharing your story with us as well! 🙏❤️

[@Joce123]

Well said comments. I only gave everything that I wanted out of my home. Goodwill made hundreds ..I hope..from the 1890's+..vintage furniture. No toxic people around me.

[@ataylor3202]

Another fantastic video, thank you. I can relate to a few of the things that you too have experienced. I worked on my boundaries and stopped negative influence, paying attention to red flags. I now run!!! Lol. I love to feel and dress in a feminine way but I also enjoy putting on my dungerees, rolling up my sleeves and getting to work on any DIY home improvements that needed doing. I now never ever wear makeup or dye my hair. I feel great! Still leveling up with other things, a working progress. So sorry to hear about your miscarriage, it chocked me up to hear your story. You are a lucky wonderful mother of two fabulous boys!

[@jackietrineer1297]

Let me first say I enjoy your channel. This video really resonated with me today. Thank you for all of your content, I find it helpful and uplifting. l

[@MinutesWithMaria]

Thank you for sharing from your life experiences and your pearls of wisdom. I like that instead of feeling FOMO, you feel JOMO. Sometimes it is nice to embrace moments of rest instead of trying to fill our calendars.

[@VooDooSue]

At 11:44. Magic! This is my current dilemma. Thank you for this discussion. ❤

[@Goshly.Kristie]

Marissa. Thank you. Thank you for being genuine with us. Your strength in being open about your challenges and celebrations is truly inspirational. Sending hugs, well... I'm not a hugger. How about some warm smiles and best wishes 🥰

[@treluvstrees999]

Such a valuable video! You dropped so much wisdom!! That video clip on stuff is so true. I always say “ People over the plan.” Make space for the relationships first. Then… the stuff, the plan, the idea, etc

[@afroditigreekmom]

I truly needed this video at this moment. Just by watching it I was able to reflect and think about what I need at this moment. Thank you for always being real in a society where people think they should fit in.

[@thecamilleshow5415]

Thank you for your vulnerability. Thank you for sharing. Sending so much love to you. You make a difference ❤️

[@loraraicheva3644]

As I age up ( I am in my 30s now ) the pressure on me to be more feminine and dress like a lady gets so much worse, even from myself. I am the handy , strong girl with leggings or jeans , T-shirt and running shoes and I love it . What scares me is that maybe is not appropriate for my age ( now or later)and I don't know any other way , because this is who I am 😢

[@susanfleming496]

Thanks for sharing your story with us, Marissa. Very insightful video with great content! ❤

[@MrJacjac1234]

I have never commented on a video…but this content was amazingly clarifying about emotional mental clutter that drags us down. Bravo and thank you for your voice of health and reason. ❤

[@AtoZenLife]

Thanks so much for your kind comment and support ❤️🙏 All the best to you!

[@tinamaciad2209]

I really appreciate your wisdom and kind words, they have filled my heart with hope and joy on this rainy Sunday morning! I loved the 12 tips you shared and am ready for a big challenge. I am afraid to start to declutter and feel stuck, but your videos are helping me realize that I too can do this!!! Thanks so much Marrissa!

[@AtoZenLife]

Thanks so much for watching and cheering 📣 for you!

[@anna6353]

Thanks for your channel and your sincerity. Love your content ❤

[@JenniferHudgens-j7t]

I love your podcast. I was moved by your personal sharing about your miscarriage . How you had to heal physically and emotionally afterwards. I wanted to share that I am 55 and in my 30's, due to level 4 endometriosis I had both of my children via IVF after a couple years of infertility procedures. I wanted to be pregnant so badly and approached it with the same ambition I did with my career. I got so worn out from monthly procedures, pills, shots etc. My fertility MD recommended we take some time off in between every few treatments. We went on vacation to be together, without worrying about pregnancy and it was so healing for us. I did go on to be blessed with children, but our journey of infertility taught me a valuable life lesson that not everything in life is in your control, and you have to give yourself some grace. I learned to let go of all the asking why and beating myself up wondering why my body was "failing" me. I found it hard to let go of those negative messages. I learned to live in acceptance of what is instead of trying to control outcomes which brought me a lasting peace. Ironically, my infertility journey made me a very patient Mom later on! I hope you are blessed with your little ones and please know that many women walk a hard road to parenthood and you are not alone. Peace-

[@treluvstrees999]

So sorry for the loss of your mom and first baby! ❤ thank you for the video.

[@Joce123]

My next challenge is that 2 of my sisters live in toxic environments. When they ask for my advice it is because they trust me. Yet. They persist in their world of poor choices...38% loans..poor w eating habits..and all that it brings with it. I now communicate by text..I redirect their questions to a resource other than me. It was just too frustrating to give them good solid advice only to have them ignore it and then complain to me about their toxic life.

[@mallerlyfrias7045]

Thank you for sharing this video. It was so helpful!

[@jandkhilbert]

You are beautiful in your wedding photos - only getting better 😊

[@Marsolan]

Great video! Quite comprehensive and very thoughtful!! Love your point of view!!❤

[@debbiehalverson22]

I'm a 3rd generation "pack rat" (hoarder!-I have to stop making it sound cute). I've never liked to shop, but I do like "antiquing" and "thrifting". But I have had to set rules about what comes into my house. Things must be consumable or have a use. Nothing just looks pretty! Routines have greatly improved my life. Some things that used to cause me so much stress (dirty dishes piled in the sink-no dishwasher) are now just done without thought.

[@c.g.6892]

thank you for your video‘s they make my days look brighter 👍🏻🤗

[@Quade617]

I appreciate what you said about diet culture. I've been all over the scale and haven't really done the work to find the root cause of my poor relationship with food. After baby 3, I've become very uncomfortable in my body and recently started WW to try to get back on track but am trying to get more into the habit of making the best selections that will naturally lead to being more comfortable and less on the scale.

[@Goldenretriever182]

Thank you for another great video 😊

[@sandyhumphreys3646]

That sounds exactly like me, and my mum, glad I’m not the only one, ❤

[@AtoZenLife]

🙏❤️

[@ArtingFromScratch]

Marissa, can you do a video about how you healed your relationship with food as well as clutter.... my dad died and I also am disordered in eating and a hoarder

[@vickithurber7972]

Thank you for sharing such a vulnerable video. I agree with so much of it. Even though I am not a minimalist, I watch your videos for the great tips and advice. I also think you are one of the most down to earth youtubers and that is much appreciated. My husband was watching with me when you gave the tip of the high interest savings account and I cant tell you how great that has been. We will be downsizing in the next 5 or so years and I will certainly continue watching for all the helpful tips!! Thanks again.

[@AtoZenLife]

That’s fantastic to hear and thanks so much for all your support - I love to hear that even non-minimalists can appreciate my channel. 😁✌️

[@melissa2696]

What a great video. I really appreciate hearing how important it was to be yourself. I can so relate to wearing shorts under dresses and prefer wearing pants to go dancing. You always have positive messages in your videos. Thank!

[@natashatheresa]

Perfect quote to start the video it’s one of my faves

[@LaundryFaerie]

I'm so sorry for your loss.

[@AtoZenLife]

🙏❤️

[@spatiobrevi]

JOMO!! I LOVE THAT! I love your videos--I always find little nuggets (like "jomo") of goodness!

[@BLK2000]

Marissa, i know you're telling us things that have gone past nw, and it shouldnt hurt, but it does, I have been there, and lost my first baby. Im sending you lots of love! You've a beautiful family nw, two lovely boys, and Iv two little boys too!

[@AtoZenLife]

Sorry for your loss as well. ❤️ Thanks for the kind words and support!

[@caterjunes3426]

Brilliant and wise, Marissa. I can relate to every one of these, and it's wonderful to know I'm not alone!

[@sarinasuisse6933]

Dear Marissa, I never comment but wanted to thank you today for the great tips and stories. I am very sorry that you lost one of your babies. Very happy for you that now you get to enjoy your family so much! Thank you for your great and insightful videos!

[@beyondminimalism7292]

Inspiring like always! Thank you 🙏🏻

[@AtoZenLife]

🙏❤️ Thanks so much for watching!

[@gabilafora4204]

I think it makes complete sense on what we watch online, I was watching a lot of "angry women with bad marriage stories" online in reddit and TikTok, and that was making me feel resentful on my own marriage, I noted that and stopped watching those things and focused on more positive things, and I can definitely tell that made a difference on how I was feeling (my husband is the same guy, caring and loving, but I`m no longer having weird angry thoughts "what if" about other people stories as this is not my story.

[@AtoZenLife]

I know EXACTLY the kind of content you are talking about - it’s so popular right now. 😅

[@kensiblonde4203]

That’s a thing? Once again so glad I’ve never had TikTok.

[@kennethbailey9853]

What I Truly enjoy to keep in my Life is looking forward to Your content. 😊

[@minimalistsmanaged]

Wonderful video, as always ❤️ Thank you for sharing your wisdom 💗🥰 So glad I found your channel ☺️

[@juliagad]

Great video, so helpful thankyou. Im currently going through the "trying not to shrink myself to fit in" stage of life, although i didn't realise it until i just watched this video! I was just talking about it with my husband yesterday. Ive run a successful party business for years, but closed it down due to ill health (mental health) , now Im better and people can see Im better and custmers are practically demanding I re-open the shop. I dont want to! It just isnt my thing anymore

[@AtoZenLife]

Protect your boundaries and peace - wishing you the best! ✌️

[@jode378]

Such a lot of great content in this video! Thanks for your contemplation of the topic

[@carbenyos]

Very helpful advice,Marissa! I've done some of the same weeding out of extraneous things and actions to my immediate benefit.

[@AtoZenLife]

Glad to hear it 🙌

[@trekkie-cat]

Absolutely hear what you're saying about the feminine pushing influencers. Whilst I do like to dress up occasionally and love pretty things, my style is smart casual/bohemian. I'm also learning to select "not interested" on toxic clips and pages. Thankyou for another great video. 😊

[@nbo9026]

So true about negative content in the media.

[@dianelathey3152]

Loved this topic today...thank you!

[@Naomi-N1ZPS]

What a great quote to start the video!!! Excellent content in this video: personal, but relatable and universal. Thank you. Love your vulnerability as well ❤

[@ValyaDream]

So proud of myself that I went to a mall with my friend 2 days and ago. And bought nothing but a meal, that I ate at the moment and the next day. Even though we spent about 4 hours walking from shop to shop

[@lyracian]

I tried audio books while driving but could not focus on the driving! Sure is a good idea while doing housework though.

[@ewalad]

Such a beautiful story. Thank you ❤

[@happyc3789]

This is a great video. I can relate with so many of the topics you talked about.