15 Years, 15 Lessons: My Journey of Becoming Minimalist

[@cgcvinyl]

Thank you Joshua! I've been a minimalist for almost a year now. I'm a 60 yo man on disability and downsized my living space to a 1 bedroom apartment. Downsizing, you really are faced with your clutter! My biggest challenge is my vinyl records & cd collection. I have more music collected over 50 years than I'll ever have time to listen to. I've begun letting go of albums I will never play. Ever! I have a long way to go but it's very freeing and calming to have less clutter now. Really calming and gives me much happiness. 😊

[@airridefanatic4880]

I have an enormous cd collection that I'm MOSTLY proud of. I have about 3,500 cd's. Vinyl has purposely limited to just ONE crate that holds about 50 LP's... But anyway, I wanted to ask you how many records and/or cd's you had...and also day--- GOOD JOB on getting rid of the ones you don't listen to! I am working on giving away some of mine soon, too.

[@sct4040]

My hubby had a friend who sold vinyl records before the internet. He had a mail order business. I think there’s also music stores that sell them now.

[@cgcvinyl]

@@sct4040 Thank you! I've tried selling vinyl at record stores and you're lucky if you get $2-3 per album. The ones they don't want I donate to Goodwill.

[@jonredd650]

It's funny how getting rid of stuff that you once cherished makes you feel good!🤷🏼‍♂️

[@michelesusanne1]

15 Lessons: 1. The Power of Less 2. Real Wealth is Intangible 3. Contentment cannot be purchased 4. The Richness of Giving 5. Comparison is the Thief of Joy 6. Minimalism is a Life Long Journey 7. Intentionality is a Key of Joy 8. Minimalism Sparks Spiritual Growth 9. Our Identity is not defined by what we own. 10. Our kids are watching us more than we think. 11. Minimalism forces Clarity 12. Money can be spent on better things than material possessions. 13. Minimalism is Personal 14. Selfless work is often the most Meaningful. 15. The world needs Minimalism

[@elizabeth__official]

Thank you so much! ❤

[@shilopitt]

Thank you Joshua for helping me find a better way of life than just wasting my life taking care of material things. (And please thank your neighbors daughter as well). I’m forever grateful.

[@nanettebrown6951]

I recently began watching your KZbin channel. It was recommended to me by an elderly gentleman I encountered while shopping at a department store. It happened when I was contemplating purchasing a storage bin, and he amusingly remarked, "Do you really need that? You seem to have quite a lot already!" His comment got me thinking about the amount of time I spend cleaning up both at home and at work. It made me realize how much more free time I could have if I owned fewer possessions. I wanted to express my gratitude to him for sparking this insightful realization.

[@JoshuaBecker]

Wow, a stranger at the dept. store?! That is amazing!

[@judymorales3335]

My sister introduced me to “a slob comes clean” in 2020 which led to other sites Minimal Mom, Clutter Bug, etc. and You. Having been a lifelong tidy person, I naturally jumped on the bandwagon. When you referenced Randy Alcorn’s book Money, Possessions & Eternity, I devoured it. Powerful! Now I have my sweet 77 year old husband watch your 4-5 minute KZbin clips. You can too - Teach an old dog new tricks! 🤗 Thank you, Josh!

[@Sypeth]

I have found your website over 8 years ago and never looked back ! I like to call myself a functional minimalist, I want to have just enough to enjoy my life but stuff must not prevent me from doing an action easily… i.e. If I need to move 3 things to reach the one I want, I have too much stuff. ADHD reinforced my need for minimalism, it removes unnecessary steps and less choices mean less time thinking, which is soooo relaxing ! And yes, I only wear black t-shirts, even as a woman, because overthinking in the morning (or at night !) over meaningless (to me !) stuff is not how I want to live my life. So thanks for sharing and as mentionned by another person, thanks to your neighbor’s daugther 😅

[@mscatnipper2359]

Joshua, you are the sole reason I was able to finally de-clutter my life. Until I took your 12-week course, my fear of letting go kept me stuck with way too many possessions. You were the first person to offer me something better in exchange for giving up what was getting in the way of that seemingly unattainable goal (for me, to have a welcoming home and ample time to spend with friends). Instead of feeling shame about my clutter, I was able to feel happiness about my incremental steps toward making space in all areas of my life, so I could fill that space with what I truly valued. Even better, I've been able to pass along your teachings to those struggling, which has enriched my life far more than holding a new possession. Thank you!

[@mariab2696]

Thank you Joshua. I am not a minimalist, but during the last few years I have continually been decluttering and intentionally evaluating what to keep. It has been and it is a challenging journey in letting go of stuff. With all this - I continue to pursue in becoming more minimalist as it brings more peace, structure and joy into our lives. Your motivational and inspirational videos are always appreciated 🙏.

[@plantsbythemoon9049]

Same here. It's been a great journey.

[@kellywade8275]

As I am crying now, with years of regret but recent joy and liberation as I watch your videos...THANK YOU!!! I, actually wanted to not wake up some days because of my stuff...but was so ashamed if I had a medical or other apartment emergency. Generational hoarding on both sides of the family...Lockdown got me started on getting rid of stuff but it wasn't until Nov 2023 that I finally realized that I can't bring more things into our home. Haven't been to Marshalls since then and no more returns because it takes up time and I can't manage. I want to sell a lot of things but my time and peace are more important at 50...so, I'm taking the loss, blessing others by giving away.🙏🏾

[@12Pearls12]

Less is more.. Worth is not wealth.. God bless you, Joshua.. You are a great teacher❣️

[@danryan5951]

Many years ago as a younger army officer I would have the profound experience of serving overseas and witnessed how little people need and own. At the time I had very little too, and since then I naturally became a minimalist. My life is different today with a wife and two kids but my behavior is the same and my family appreciates it. It’s not always easy but we have less and do more. My personal net worth will allow me to retire early and freely roam without stuff.

[@carriemainquist757]

The power of less. Hit me right between the eyes. Minimalism brings clarity. I have work to do! TY Joshua Becker!

[@cindynevels2053]

Thoughtful words and so much food for thought. Thank you.

[@fionaclarke4828]

Hi Joshua, I have been following along with your journey for many years but I have never commented. I really value your faith based approach to minimalism, that it isn't just about decluttering and decor but living a more intentional life. I have several of your books and currently reading your devotionals on YouVersion. Thank you for all you do to bring a great message we all need to hear, it has really helped me in my decluttering but also living a more simple life. Many blessings from New Zealand.

[@LJ-ww1vf]

"New season of life..." gosh, I love that!!!

[@avenj4659]

I very recently listened (again again) to the 14 years video so it’s so interesting to see this one pop up 😊😊

[@stephenkent339]

Thank you Joshua, I’ve watched your videos for a couple years now. I started downsizing and becoming a Minimalist. My Wife is a borderline collector of everything. So I can only control my stuff. My things. But I’m ok with that. Thank you so much.

[@kakylong2]

Great video! We are on our journey to minimalism & it is amazing at how it frees our mind, time, money & so much more. Thank you, Joshua. 😊

[@jeanbrozack7940]

Thank you for this amazing recap of your journey. It helps more than you know!

[@kennethbailey9853]

You Truly have been a Very Special Friend to countless people The Whole World Over. 🙂

[@mattrandall1808]

Ive listed about 20 items on ebay this past week that i was decluttering. I listed below market value to sell it faster and sold about half the items week 1. Because of these videos i value being free of the items more than getting ultimate monetary return on every item. Ive also given a lot of things away that i would have usually tried to sell. Im all about speed in decluttering now. Thanks Joshua!

[@susanaustin4809]

I’m learning and working toward minimalism. Thank you

[@Nicoladen1]

Minimalism of the mind is the endboss. How many of our thoughts are unproductive, harmful, and cause nothing but stress and confusion. Cleaning that mess up requires by far the most effort but leads to the most benefits. It very much makes you minimalistic at the same time. After all it's the mind that does the thinking and doing. Mindest undermines everything. That is factually true and can be realized in oneself when one reads about Carl Jung or basically any eastern philosophies/religions. They always knew what was wrong with us, and unlike other religions or science, they dont tell us what to belief, but what not to believe.

[@sdgirlCook]

8 years of minimalism and never regret! Thank you❤

[@mike_js2936]

You’ve got to be one of the easiest people to listen to Joshua. Something about the way you speak makes me want to listen. Thank You.

[@TheEsteban1979]

I want to remark the clarity of your message. I think it reflects the that you didn't just got rid of the material clutter but also your mental clutter. Without thinking about the concept of minimalist I became one in the last 1 1/2 year ago. I sold everything and moved to Argentina. I only have what I need to function. It allowed me to "retire at the age of 41". I only invest my time in the things and the people I care. I improved my physical and mental health. Enjoy every day of my life without the financial worries I used to have years ago. I guess because I'm content 99 % of the time I don't have to buy things to cover emotional holes. I don't need much money to live so I can help others and enjoy things that brings joy to me like cook, teach, learn and travel. It was a hard decision to make. I thank God that gave me the courage to make it. I'm leaving my best life.

[@judygarzadavis2946]

Thank you for the information you share. I'm excited to check out your faith based newsletter. You make a difference.

[@beckyrosenowgartman3445]

That is what I want. A more intentional and meaningful life!

[@AliWade1971]

I am grateful. I see a different future for me now - less about buying more craft stash that will sit unused, and more about taking time for my health and family.

[@noora9331]

Sir, your lessons are at the heart of true islamic practice. We were taught all this and its all in our book. Sadly not many that follows.

[@tomjordan5832]

been learning and doing this life style for ten years now.....from multi multi millionaire to simplicity and intense low stress happiness,,,,,,totally agree you have the key to wonderment life ..

[@aliceaustin3603]

Letting go of "stuff" is so freeing, not just having less but not getting influenced in the world offering the newest gadget. I am trying to just live with what I need and be thankful to our good Lord for what we have.

[@shaneldunn1706]

beautifully articulated, thank you

[@rhondacurrier4592]

Thank you, Joshua! I have been enjoying your faith focus email too! Blessings to you and your family! 😊

[@giennefarcais6834]

You are simply a wonderful human - an endangered species. Thank you for your thoughtful work these past few years. You have changed my life for the better.

[@Icecandy1882]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences

[@laurenburger8821]

Congratulations on a big milestone. You have helped so many of us purge stuff we don’t need and question the things that we buy. I have been following you for about 2 years now. I’m loving my house and love decluttering so much stuff I thought I would need for someday. Thank you Joshua❤

[@TheMcChelle]

Thank you, Joshua, for your dedication to minimalism and for inspiring us all to live more meaningful and intentional lives. You are the best.

[@xpsxps1339]

Thank you, Joshua! Your content has always been very beneficial - brief, always to the point, nonbiased, and not judgemental; everybody can relate. I wish people like you had at least 10 times more followers; this country would be a better place to live in. Thanks again!

[@susanmburu7792]

When I discovered these channel..... owning less to me has brought financial freedom..... and more space for other things. Ave learnt to say no to consumerism......

[@jayathome2898]

Minimalism and intentionality go hand in hand with alleviating animal suffering and the destruction of our planet from large scale animal agriculture! Being minimal in our possessions without also trying to be minimal in our impact on the world is short sighted.

[@khill2635]

I love these vlogs they’ve been a life changer for me. I’m kinda new to minimalism and it’s not as easy as you think but through watching your videos I feel more encouraged to keep going. Small changes make such a difference! The only thing is convincing my husband and daughter to do the same lol they’re quite happy for me to de clutter my own stuff but they’re like wolves when it comes to theirs!!

[@debbienolan7957]

Bless you Joshua for all your hard work. I have been downsizing now for quite some time wanting much less to care for and hoping to make a bigger difference in someone else's life. I believe that the only work that lasts is what we do for our Lord. Perhaps this becomes easier as we age. It seems like we are much more easily influenced when we are younger and unfortunately wisdom is generally not found until we grow more mature. Thank you again for your wise words. Have a great day.

[@paulettemcglothan1386]

Yes. Your words about minimalism are words of wisdom. Meaning of life means much more than what we own. Many Thanks!

[@hollyl5702]

I found minimal mom during the pandemic and she led me to you, her inspiration. My own mom was a hoarder growing up and you have taught me how to do better and ultimately create a better space and lifestyle for me and my family. Thank you so much for what you do.

[@susan5661]

Your videos have lit the winding path in front of me these past years, and led to my ability to live a better, more meaningful life. I am very grateful and fulls of thanks for your wisdom and guidance.

[@sparkle9482]

I am starting to practice Minimalism to simplify my life, and this video was Extremly Helpful it has really given me a better outlook! Awesome Content🙏❤

[@vicky-qz9hp]

Thank you for your ideas. I’ve been a minimalist most of my life, (since age 10!!!) when I discovered that I “hated lots of stuff around. I hope people will listen to you and learn, keep on teaching and the world will listen ….eventually Thank you

[@EditorSJ]

So - a home for four. Four sets of dishes in the cupboard. Ten clothing items in your wardrobe? Towels, washcloths, blankets? Do you ever have the regular lovely reward of serving twelve guests or so at your table? Discussions that lead to learning and growth and deeper friendships? How about keeping a family as overnight guests for several nights who are traveling through? Or keeping a college student who needs a room for several semesters? We had two children also, but if we live for “Us Four, No More” even our expense on our experiences can become selfish. Experiences are wonderful but hospitality is even more of a gift (albeit a lot more work). So just wondering how welcoming a home is if it only provides for yourselves. At someplace there needs to be room in our hearts and possessions enough to help others along the way.

[@username00009]

Minimalism is about intentionally crafting the life you want. If you like to host, then account for that in your plans.

[@KellyB3]

Thank you for such heartfelt content. 🤍

[@laurab3413]

Your books and videos have changed my life for the better. Thank you for all you do!

[@chowwong09]

Like always! Very articulate ! Great video!!! Thank you so much 😊 ❤!!

[@edwinyeong1867]

Hi, I had been minimalist..to minimize A lot of thing...to keep what is important. And I really like.

[@claudiatabares2277]

Thank you Joshua for your videos. You probably missed to mention the most important treasures of all: Health!!!! 🙏

[@arputhajoyce3653]

Thank you Joshua, from India.

[@livn4JC]

My favorite KZbin channel!! I look forward to your videos every Friday

[@amandasymon4363]

Purpose, clarity and fulfilment - I took a deep breath when you said those words - It isn’t too late I suddenly realise 🙏

[@gingerstrait836]

Thank you Joshua!!❤

[@Cat-ik1wo]

So true Joshua. I have reached that summit after 7 yrs of 1st step journey to minimalism. What a process! It was difficult. But it does work hand in hand of clearing out the mind as well. Now I clearly see and understand what is true value. And also how strong the influence of the materialist machine is. We have to learn to overcome that, and stay grounded in the truth of it. We cannot behave like sheep's. Yes, we must put on the full armor. Or be swept up in the madness of the masses. The choice is ours.

[@julzpogi17]

Thanks watching from Philippines 🇵🇭

[@nancyt6515]

What a beacon you are! Thankful for you & proud to know you’re from SD. Minimalist in Sioux Falls.

[@joannarivera2275]

Very well said! Thank you for the 15 years. I pray that the next 15 are even more fruitful and impactful ❤️

[@patteegee9506]

Hi Joshua. Thank you for sharing the 15 lessons you have learned through the last 15 years. I have been following you for a few years. Your message of living with less has shifted my perspective about how I live my life and has helped me examine what really matters to me. It has been liberating and I am grateful for you.

[@karenhilton4684]

Your so calming. I found you 3 years ago. Thank you!

[@YennyCMorales]

You inspired me to start this journey over 5yrs ago, thank you!

[@iceWaterProductions1]

I should have known after 10 seconds when I heard the two words Minimalist and Vermont I was going to in for it. I can barely walk in my house due to piles of 40year old magazine, records, instrument, etc etc and I have to Amazon truck stopping at my house several times a week increasing my hoard more and more. The funniest thing is a have a huge amount of love, enrichment mentally and professionally and artistically wise on a growing pace day to day since I’ve been a kid. I watch EBay and Discogs on a daily basis for old records and I’ll never have enough. I hope to die with 1000s of vinyl records and piles of cases with more and more guitars. There’s never enough.

[@nancyposluszny6504]

I appreciate your information about the value of minimalism. I enjoy your videos and books, both of which I refer to often. Thank you. I minimized our home (my husband and I in our mid 60s) about 4 years ago and through this process have said goodbye to unnecessary items, letting others enjoy them. I babysit my 2 young grandchildren twice a week and rarely to never have to say “don’t touch that, it’s fragile”! My grandchildren’s happiness, smiles, laughter and curiosity way outweigh “things”. I look forward to your next video and/or book.

[@carlamendoncapeixoto]

Boa noite Joshua. Obrigada por vc fazer parte d minha jornada MINIMALISTA, seu livro e seus vídeos são de profunda inspiração para uma mudança verdadeira nesta caminhada tão especial que é viver o estilo minimalista. Um grande abraço!

[@jillians5792]

Congratulations, Joshua! Been with you almost from the beginning, I love how you have evolved your message in recent years beyond the stuff and more about the impact you can make in life. Things That Matter is a masterpiece. Looking forward to seeing where you go next 🎉.

[@monicacreates]

Your unique way to look at minimalism has shaped my own view, thank you!

[@ChrisS-nr7lj]

Thanks for the reminders!

[@fiddlejillm]

15 years!?! wow - I think I've been around for most of that time. I've been in Oregon for 13 years and I know I was reading your blog before that. These are all great lessons - things I have found true as well. I think the name "becoming minimalist" is so fitting - and applicable to most everything we do. Everything we do is a journey and few of us ever reach our destination in this life! Thank you for sharing your story and continuing to share what you learn along the way - it's inspiring and encouraging.

[@elizabethgarcia6399]

Love your videos

[@janethunt4037]

Loved this overview of your last 15 years! My husband and I are also at the point of shifting gears with empty nesting and retiring in the near future.

[@bornabarakat1169]

Thanks dear Joshua!

[@BarnaliD]

You are a ray of light. Thank you.

[@JoshuaBecker]

You are very kind.

[@cynthiahoward2844]

So much wisdom in your words!

[@Gillesgip]

Thank you so much Joshua!

[@Carolmaizy]

Thank you for all you have taught me and so many others!

[@sumathisaba5806]

Thank you Joshua. So happy to see the boys playing. My husband Saba is an extreme minimalist because of that we are able to live comfortable and joyful life financially now. As usual, I didn't appreciate that the early stage of our marriage ( as typical wife 😊).. By keep on listening to your content for the last 2 years, it made sense to me. I am becoming minimalist now. Thank you.

[@lucianaloureiro487]

Thank u so much!❤

[@misssicily100]

give and love xo I wish everyone true happiness.

[@shannonelliott9230]

Thank you, Josh! You're an inspiration. Just the thing I heard you say a while back about how it changed your focus in life has quietly grown in me. Be blessed! Shalom!

[@miriamg7949]

Beautiful video and very inspiring tips! I've been following u for yrs and really enjoy ur calm and kind aporoach. Thank y for introducing us to the idea of less is more. Its not easy but im slowing working on buying less and owning less.

[@amandasfreshstart534]

I love your logic and your education of Minimalism that you are sharing with all of us!!! I have been on a 10 year Journey myself and have found it to be VERY enriching!!! KEEP UP THE GOOD that you are doing in/for this world, Joshua!!! 🙂

[@sarikem8131]

Thank you Joshua❤

[@dragonlei3]

Thank you! 🎉 15 years!

[@KristiBranstetter]

I love the simplified life! My biggest inventory is my clothes. I live in a one-bedroom apartment. I have gotten rid of a lot since February 2021. Letting go is becoming easier with time. I want to travel more. I love donating money.

[@ruins_and_ghosts326]

Always enjoy your videos & I totally agree we are forever becoming minimalist. Thank you 🙏

[@expressivepaper]

You are truly an inspiration. Living with intentionality and purpose is helping me the most on becoming more of a minimalist. I also like the fact that you constantly remind people that the journey is personal. It’s such an important statement that allows for less comparison to all of the consumerism. Thank you ❤️

[@MinutesWithMaria]

I am so glad I found your videos and books. You have so much wisdom and insight into minimalism and intentional living. And it has been wonderful to know that your faith is your foundation to what you do. I have also found that simple living has allowed for the deepening of my faith which has been a blessing. Thank you for your consistent and well thought out messages. 🙏

[@maz8023]

Following you since the very start, Joshua!💫 I was fascinated by "simplification" and right-sized living as a college student in the late 90's and was thrilled when I found you in 2008 and then Leo Babauta and the others and realized this was a universal thing! You are a legend and your family is gold~love you all!💛

[@martibriley1841]

Great uplifting video. Have been following you for a few years now. From my heart, Thank You, Thank You

[@ethyleneethylene5]

Thank you for the wisdom Joshua Becker.

[@jenniethatcher2663]

Thanks, Joshua. I'm excited to see where intentionality and faith take you in your next phase of life.

[@erika_castro]

Thank you Joshua! I’m still in my journey of becoming a minimalist. I have two little girls, and sometimes I find it difficult to let go, specially when I have family like my grandparents interfering with letting go. Your videos inspire me.

[@MaryPoe-t3q]

What a powerful message!

[@tanyajohnston8262]

I appreciate you 😊

[@marylut6077]

My catalyst was downsizing Dad to 5-room apt, realizing he paid RE taxes on a 14-room home but used only 6 of them, selling never-used items, learning valued family & friends over his possessions.

[@rubenportugues7811]

Always enjoy your videos, Thank you Joshua! 🙌🙏🤙