7 Common Problems Solved By Owning Less

Years ago, we sold, donated, or discarded over 70% of our family’s possessions. We removed anything we could find in our home that was not immediately useful or beautiful. The result has been a completely transformed life and lifestyle. It is a decision we have never regretted.
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[@JoshuaBecker]

Hey guys! Just wanted to let you know that my new book, Things That Matter, is finally here. I put my heart into it, and I can’t wait to share it with you. You can pick up a copy at www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/676394/things-that-matter-by-joshua-becker/

[@nikkil764]

I remember talking to a man who made a fortune owning mini storage units. He said it was an industry based on procrastination. He said that in all his units, he’d never seen anyone who had items in the unit that were worth more than the amount of rent they eventually paid. Sad.

[@nikkil764]

So true. We recently rented a storage unit to hold items from a home we sold. In less than two weeks we went through it all and gave nearly all of it away. The lady at the storage facility was amazed. We were still in the first month where they charged only half price on the rent. Nobody clears out before the month is over.

[@falsehoodbasher7240]

Sad...

[@sandyhausrath]

I have relatives who have owned a storage facility for over 30 years now. They have people who've been paying $65 a month, every month, for the *entire time* that they've been running the place. (Some of those clients they inherited from the previous owners.) That's approaching $25k just in storage costs.

[@Tes7000]

My house has a full unfinished basement which has become a storage facility. One friend of mine was evicted from her place and moved a bunch of stuff into my basement all of a sudden 8 years ago. After that, another friend who does a lot of work for me around the house saw that and ask to move stuff he had in storage to my basement. Years later, most of that stuff is still in my basement with neither having removed a significant amount. And then there is the stuff that my parents and I had accumulated over the years, which I would say is probably about half the stuff in the basement. Both passed on years ago, but due to the job I had until last year, I didn't have the time or energy to spend decluttering. My mother was a teacher and moved lots of stuff from her classroom home when she retired in 2004. Quite a few of those boxes of stuff have gone into the trash over the past few weeks. I am still working out what to do with some of the stuff, which might still be useful though not to me. Otherwise, some of my de-cluttering has been amazing, not for what I have discarded but for what I have discovered. I found a bunch of really old out of print magazines and comic books, as well as some more vinyl albums to add to the ones I already knew were down there. Obviously, none of those items will be thrown out.

[@Tes7000]

@@PCH5 Your advice is really timely. One of the people with stuff in the basement was by my house yesterday, and I told him that I was doing some decluttering. He said I ought to get a big dumpster and just clean out the basement in one fell swoop. I don't really need to do that, plus I am paying for weekly trash pickup, so I am fine decluttering gradually (one completely full trashbin every week). The main takeaway from that conversation was the fact that he was not pressed about his own stuff. After so many years, he seemed to accept the fact that most of it could go. I will let him know when I am focusing on his portion of the basement. I have been decluttering some of my other friend's stuff. She moved it down to my basement more than 8 years ago, and most of it is junk of little value. I hauled a huge trash bag of clothes out to the Herbie curb this morning. I doubt that she would even remember what was in all of the bags and boxes that she moved into my basement. During my last conversation with her about the stuff in the basement, which was probably sometime last year, she mentioned that she was going to try to get over to the house to go through that stuff and donate what could be donated to Goodwill. I have known this particular friend for more than 30 years, and I do not believe she will ever do anything so proactive, so without even having a pointless discussion with her about it, I have taken the initiative to start decluttering some of the stuff she moved into the basement. I am being thoughtful and showing some restraint in terms of what I discard, but quite a bit of what she has down there is not worth donating. She has many boxes of old VHS tapes, which I am being restrained enough to not discard, but . . . I don't recall seeing a VCR at her house the last time I was there. Thanks for the encouragement.

[@LiaBSakura]

Even the video length is minimalist

[@mernie2011]

🤣🤣🤣

[@luisasterioquerubin6829]

3 mins

[@RoszenCariaso]

the reason I like watching Joshua Hehe

[@baronvonchickenpants6564]

When I got divorced I lived in my friends spare room for three months, I had a bag of clothes a guitar a tablet and my phone, the lack of clutter was truly liberating

[@dh1474]

I can relate to this. I lost 90% of everything when I got divorced, in fact so much I had nothing left to lose.. surprisingly it felt great, I felt lighter and gained some freedom!

[@luisasterioquerubin6829]

Divorce?

[@Jessinblackandwhite]

Less time cleaning has made its way to the top of my reasons for minimizing

[@munirafaquir1837]

Jess when did you start with that way of lifestyle

[@Jessinblackandwhite]

Munira Faquir I’ve been drawn to minimalism since I was a teenager

[@HebaHosni]

Same here

[@rlopez2626]

I’ve put my house on a diet and I think it has lost more weight than I ever have.

[@likeargamanflaming940]

😋

[@reconciliatione.h.1166]

😂😁

[@reganwolf4405]

🤣😅

[@boss0430tina]

No.1 Not enough money No.2 Not enough time in the day No.3 Time spent cleaning No.4 Not enough space No.5 Too much stress No.6 Not knowing what to wear No.7 Feeling of discontent

[@bethm3152]

You're a literal angel

[@KathyBGood]

thank you! that's a minimalist list! well done!

[@justeyoung]

There is a special place in heaven for kind hearted person like you.

[@ethanlioslehran5608]

Thank you so much for this

[@sternfan8831]

You're doing the Lord's work. I hope you go to heaven!

[@izzyp26]

Amen!! At the end when we leave the pysical world we don't take the material...clothes/furniture. Less is more!

[@nancynurse4552]

We have downsized by over 97%. Still have loads of things we don’t use or want any more. My stress and anxiety have decreased exponentially as we minimized. Thank you for another awesome video🤗

[@priscillafrye2951]

How did you do it and how long did it take? I am happy to get rid of stuff and would like to get rid of about 50% and move to a smaller house. However I work a lot of hours and it's hard to find time to do much decluttering. Other challenge is I can't get my husband or college age daughter to work with me at all. It's kind of stressful to be the one to have to sort thru everything and its NOT all my stuff.

[@ionelafessler5564]

@@priscillafrye2951 When I decluttered, it took me about a year. That's because I didn't throw the things in the trash but I took a few bags at a time to Goodwill stores or I scheduled pick ups for my items on charity websites like VVA (Vietnam veterans of America) for example. I made sure to wrap the fragile items in bubble wrap or among clothes in the bag or box, because the driver picks it up and throws it in a big truck. So it took me a long time ... When you declutter have boxes or even plastic bins that you don't want anymore, ready for it and go through your things fast. Think about the purpose of those things, immediate purpose and use or up to a year or two. Think about the easiness of that thing, maybe it will make your life too difficult or stressful, maybe if you give it up then would make your life easier. When it comes to clothes, maybe you want to keep the ones that are easy care or certain material or colors, to fit in your current closet space of course. You can donate your books to the library. If you think one vase is enough, just keep one. Honestly, I got rid of all of them because I don't want to have cut flowers in it anymore. I also got rid of all decor like figurines, tchotchkes, candle holders, baskets and trays, pillows, fake flowers, even fridge magnets (I had about 50 of them). I gave cosmetic products to my friends like creams, soaps, makeup removers (I had 6 of them) which I couldn't use fast enough and I didn't want to have them for the next 5 years. Actually I'm planning on not using most of products like those after finishing the ones I started. Same for household cleaners. Make the decisions fast so it's not stressful. Take everything out from the spot you're decluttering and then put back the things you want to save, pack up the rest to give away or throw away. Maybe you can get help from your husband to take the bags to the charity. I would definitely start with clearing up the floors so you have room. Take an hour whenever you have some energy. Don't think it's a stressful process but just another activity or chore like any other. Have what you like, maybe coffee maybe a slice of cake, before you start or as a break. I hope you will have time to read all this hehe. Goodluck😏

[@mtheron100]

@@priscillafrye2951 Have you tried the 30day challenge? On day 1 you get rid of 1 thing, day 2 two things, day 3 three things... Really good and easy starting point. Good luck!

[@BarnaliD]

@@priscillafrye2951 Try to do it one specific type of item at a time. Bags, shoes, tops etc, then move on to the kitchen, then bath, then linens. Let your family know what you're doing and that if they don't help, you'll go screaming around the neighborhood like a mad woman...Naked! 😁 They'd consider helping at that point, guaranteed. If that doesn't work, have them watch Hoarders, Buried Alive. It's on KZbin!

[@priscillafrye2951]

@mya1952 it's so funny how many guys I hear about that have a ton of clothes or shoes.

[@giedre8921]

I became minimalist 4 years ago. It is amazing. I stopped buying souvenirs when I travel, I rather bring foods for my family to try, I stopped buying jewelry that looks amazing, but I know that i would never wear it, downsizes cosmetics. Started to learn more about the products I buy and what I really need.

[@lesliepyrame]

The seven points are true but what really hit home in my case is that it lowered my stress and anxiety levels A LOT. It changed my life. Now I thrive to get rid of more things.

[@simplycj5460]

I agree on all points, but for me, the biggest attraction to a minimalist lifestyle, is the peace I feel as a result of owning fewer items. From a very young age I was attracted to the Old Order Amish and the peacefulness of their homes. I fashioned my home and lifestyle after theirs, so I guess I was a “minimalist” from my earliest days.

[@munirafaquir1837]

SimplyCJ what th Amish religion worship? Tnx

[@simplycj5460]

Munira Faquir Hi Munira, The Amish are a Protestant sect of Christianity.

[@normanmiller1331]

Munira Faquir Amish are antibaptist believers.

[@paulastaples9467]

@@normanmiller1331 Not antibaptist Norman. Anabaptists :)

[@77777aol]

SimplyCJ : Ditto. And for the same but opposite reason I cannot abide fru fru Baroque . . . it claws in my throat.

[@cindyc.1572]

I love being a minimalist. A brain tumor last year brought me to a place where I couldn’t take care of all this stuff. So I got rid of everything !! I’m real happy. I don’t miss my collections of stuff. 😊

[@Shiryone]

#8, not knowing what you have and/or where it is. This is what converted my pack rat husband to lean towards minimalism. He would go out and buy something that he didn't remember he already had. Buying duplicates = mismanaging money. I am happiest when I'm decluttering and taking items to the donation center, it's so liberating. It's definitely an ongoing journey.

[@Spider_7_7]

Great point! 👍🏻

[@imroseahmed7638]

Its our mother who forgets her bought stuffs.... There might be triple of her same stuffs.... We kids are reducing the daily fights b/w our parents by decluttering and donating them without her knowledge.

[@ah5721]

You have two options Keep his shit in clear tubs and konmari them. Or two.. slowly just get rid of it without him knowing. My husband didn't even miss his ugly jacket until I got rid of it months later. He has 6 jackets to wear instead of looking like an old grandpa

[@ddd1dorin396]

Yes, no. 8 is good.

[@ShiaGirl18]

I love donating my stuff, especially to those who are in need. I know it will benefit them.

[@SpicyBiCutiePie]

I appreciate this video! As someone who's recently sorted my wardrobe to the point where I only have 20% of my original closet! I find that it's been liberating to own less stuff -- less space taken up, less cleaning, less maintenance. The best part is how when I look at my stuff, everything in there is something i love and I know they make me feel and look good so I'm happy I have now "always something to wear." :)

[@LateBoomer1964]

So true, I am working towards removing items I don't use to make space for more items I would use if I had the space! This may seem like it is going backwards but, the amount of things, I don't use and I'm getting rid of take up at least 20 times more space than the things I really want and would use every day. As for things causing stress, imagine what it feels like to go to a hotel. Your stay is always relaxing because there is very little stuff in a hotel room! The bed isn't that much more soft than your own, the chair is not more comfortable, the TV has the same channels. So what is the difference? No clutter to clean up, store or worry about!

[@ShiaGirl18]

I remember at the end of the school year when all the teachers had to clean out their desk. My desk literally took 2 minutes. I only had to put some extra papers in an envelope and throw the rest in the bin. The other teachers took more than 15 minutes. They were given bags and some were given boxes. I even had to help one of them throw away the many things she had stored.

[@jekalambert9412]

As someone who's lived a very minimalist lifestyle for years, I've always hated the obligatory gift giving that's so much a part of mainstream culture. I've finally convinced the people around me that I love doing things with them more than I love having stuff. In the past, I would simply take the gifts presented, say thank you, then immediately donate them. This never felt right, so I eventually ended up being honest about my preference to not accumulate stuff and to not participate in formal gift exchanges. I explain that I like simple things - homemade food, homegrown veggies, activities together, flowers, etc. Some of the conversations about me not wanting stuff ended up being kind of tense. Just wondering - how do you deal with people who think they have to give you stuff for holidays, birthdays, etc.?

[@babycakes8434]

I hate that too. I don't like it to be responsibility but an act of kindness. It is so commercial in the USA that you are basicaly forced to buy gifts.

[@TheGratitudeAttitude]

You know you’re becoming a minimalist when you see the latest ad for a gadget that would have otherwise enticed you, and your first thought is, “clutter.”

[@maryspeidel5258]

A clean environment creates tranquility of the mind.

[@savaliterati]

Absolutely! Living more minimally has CHANGED MY LIFE!

[@Richard-vq7ud]

I love coming home to a clean house, keeping out the junk is a lifelong habit. If you think i "just" need a day, week, etc to clean up, you will never do it. I constantly reduce my clothes, junk drawer, garage, house. When the junk is out, you treasure what is left, and have no desire to waste money.

[@ah5721]

Agreed!

[@greg_216]

I've remarked that you don't need to be a hoarder to end up with a house that looks like you're a hoarder. You just have to go to the mailbox every day, bring in the junk mail, and mindlessly set it down someplace. It is indeed a constant effort to keep the junk out because it certainly wants to come in.

[@minikorsi]

I agree wholeheartedly! I think the top most important from the list is ending discontent. Since minimising my life I look around in my space and feel gratitude for my life and all the people in it- I could not see from the unnecessary stuff.

[@niklaushofteim5273]

At its essence, minimalism does not really have all that much to do with physical stuff; it is a mental exercise in choice. Decluttering of both physical items and mental distractions is what many need to do to see the path and take the all important first step of true minimalism: understanding the values we hold important and the goals/passions we want in our life. This misunderstanding of minimalism - and the nearly inevitable substitution of decluttering instead - leads too many to focus on the number of things they own, thus still putting too much importance on "things". These people are not minimalist, they simply have fewer possessions than they used to. Minimalism's interaction with physical things is not about owning fewer of them, it is about having the items/relationships/time invested only in things that support a goal or passion or reaffirm a value.

[@dorismahoney1440]

I'm not there yet, but glad to have my drawers and closets tidy. (Less in there). Not a home owner. Don't want to drag all this with me.

[@therandeydenyah]

Minimalism brings serenity and serenity brings light and light brings beauty. Paring down to what Joshua recommends will let more of that light into your life. Thank you, Joshua

[@monicasuzette]

All my life I feel like I've been cursed with having too much stuff..this is the year I get rid of the burden of THINGS and get into ME

[@ShiaGirl18]

How is your progress?

[@babycakes8434]

I love to get rid of things, maybe I should start a declutering for others. How are you doing so far?

[@monicasuzette]

@@ShiaGirl18 im just now seeing this message...i dont throw good things away I prefer to donate to Goodwill..but Its a process. I get rid of things and from no where more things appear..its getting better but its ongoung

[@monicasuzette]

@@babycakes8434 i put in new flooring and with that, managed to donate a lot of items but honestly, its an ongoing process for me..have you started?

[@ShiaGirl18]

@@monicasuzette I do the same as well. I'm more comfortable with someone getting more use out of it.

[@agneslaufer9579]

We didn't have storage in Poland when I was growing up. We had basements for christmas tree and bikes and preserves, potatoes!

[@babycakes8434]

In Poland we don't have a yard sales and people don't want usually somebodys old stuff and it is just hard to get rid of things other way than just throwing it away. Complete waste or a life of a pack rat.

[@Amanda-yd2ey]

My husband grew up in Poland and mentioned how their storage in the basement was smaller than my walk in Canadian closet. It reminds me to be content and greatful

[@77777aol]

100% practical common sense. 100% clear. 100% wise. Now for courageous action :. Rethink. Reduce. Repurpose. Recycle - give away+sell. Our environment IS our Life. More clarity to create value, do what is meaningful . . . including spending time with loved ones, healthy pursuits and creative projects . . .

[@ghadadagher9160]

Yes i agree tow years ago i watched your videos about decluttering and minimalist and in about one month i decluttered 60 bags from my home and this came so rewarding less time to clean everything has its place if not it has to go have more time for my family and friends and yes the most important is less stress

[@Miss_Annlaug]

Craving new things is not strong anymore. Because now I see that buying more is not a treat or a benefit: it's some new thing I have to find space for in my home. And I avoid new things as much as possible. I still need to downsize more: not ad new. It's taken the temptation out of shopping for me.

[@jodiefinney5072]

love these videos...however i did smile at the irony of showing the family playing the game "Monopoly".

[@franciscopartida4167]

Maybe they were playing it backwards and trying to be minimalists in the game. LOL

[@sandrarthornton]

😂😂

[@helenebennie3961]

I didn't realise the irony of it until you said it.

[@helenebennie3961]

@inspired528 Not sure realising the irony of a situation is sharp. Even though it is ironic - I don't think Joshua Becker is necessarily against having possessions or even real estate, he is just encouraging us to see the benefits of owning only what we need. Owning and playing a game of Monopoly isn't anti-minimalist. Owning and NOT playing the game of Monopoly is anti-minimalist. Have a good day.:)

[@CobraDove1111]

Me too. I study law, banking and scripture and it is the attorneys and bankers who have withheld the knowledge, the keys to freedom of debt from humanity. Anyone interested in Jesus' message, check out my videos. Hint...it's about freedom legal jurisdiction and not being a DEBTOR /stock/ legal person/ slave

[@kayakinggrandmakelly7105]

A smaller house cost less to heat and cool. I don’t mind cleaning, but I can’t clean with stuff sitting around everywhere. And now that I have the minimalist mindset, I spend so much less money on stuff I do not need!

[@godsgrace1137]

I’m going to do this. I don’t own stuff.. Stuff owns me. Giving it away....yeah

[@Ellie-sx2rh]

You got this!!! Do it up!!! You've inspired me!!! Tyvm!

[@charlesschauer8927]

Well said

[@donnamuller6460]

Godsgrace The most freeing thing of all was when I let go of the baggage of 38 years of Christianity (I'm now 60) and the accompanying books, tapes, 3 services per week, Bible studies, judgemental friends, and space inside my brain for something that wasn't even true. Talk about decluttering! This was in 1996 and the relief is still palpable if I pause to think about it.

[@godsgrace1137]

Donna Muller I’m sorry Donna. God is the only thing that means anything to me . I’ll not discard Him, I want to be in heaven for eternity...nothing in this life is worth keeping...it all turns to dust...except our soul. May God bless you.

[@michaelbalfour3170]

@@godsgrace1137 I'm just curious and not trying to be petty, but why do you think your God is real and not one of the many others? Why are they all wrong but your right? What about the scientific answers that have evidence to support? I'm just curious to know why people follow beliefs and you seem open about yours.

[@lw3269]

Buy only what you love, whether it's clothing, furniture, or food. I feel less compelled to buy more stuff, if what I have makes me happy. I hate looking at some useless item I purchased on a whim because of a sale. Been donating all that crap. It's a work in progress because I love to shop. Less clutter is less stress.

[@ShiaGirl18]

I've been trying to tell my family this for years! They are always under stress, especially my mom. She would usually set aside each holiday to clean. I told them that makes no sense. Declutter at intervals so it is less stress; when the holiday comes we should be spending time as a family-not cleaning. My words have fallen on deaf ears.

[@LtFoodstamp]

I just got rid of a house worth of stuff. Only have what I could fit in a uhaul U-box for a simple move. Even selling the car and motorcycle.

[@77777aol]

When giving gifts ideally give organic food. Your gift benefits their life + if they truly enjoy it there will be nothing left at the end. A win-win senario that lives true to the minamalist ideal ! [Inspiring video. 'Rethink - before buying. Reduce. Repurpose. Recycle. Sell + give away. At a last resport - dump']

[@spring7643]

Love this

[@mtheron100]

Some people might dislike me saying this, but it definitely applies to pets in my life! I have 2 dogs and 2 cats. Every day either the dogs get out of the yard or, like today, one of our 5mo old kittens go missing. It's stressful and emotional! When the time comes and they pass on, I will not be getting more pets! 3 small kids are enough!

[@sct4040]

I always wondered why women with kids also have so many pets. It's so much work, never having time to yourselves.

[@mtheron100]

@@sct4040 Because we are suckers for pain??😂 We got the dogs so our girls won't be scared of animals and the cats were feral and needed a home, so in they came as well. I have a problem saying no to animals, even when I know I shouldn't take them!

[@cleanandambient4387]

I so agree that pets are often stressful then anything else, I have 2 dogs, a cat and a fish. I go out for a day and I'm stressing if my dogs have gotten out or if something has gotten into the yard despite having 6+ fencing all around. I'm too am not replacing them once they have passed on.

[@deemac3470]

I only have one cat and i couldnt imagine having more pets. Dogs are a mess. I dont mind fish and lizards but they still require a ton of attention.

[@cmi7439]

Couldn't imagine a life without my pets. The kids would cause me way more stress than my pets do. Its a wonderful blessing that each of us get to choose what we want in life.

[@JoyfulLivingLinda]

All of these things are so true. As I've made my way through the decluttering process and strive for a more minimalist lifestyle my mental health has radically improved as well as my appreciation for all the small things in life.

[@malu1917]

You are so honest and open with your life and your ability to share and teach me, that less is more, is priceless advice you gave me. Your kindness, wisdom and unselfish heart is a blessing and I am ever so grateful to you for opening up my eyes. Thank you for your thoughts.

[@Kanvaskata]

i just started minimalism this year, and I have already freed from so much stresses, mostly from the stuffs that I don't need. I realized, every time I look at those unused things, there is some kind of pressure that can make me uncomfortable. but, now, by owning the enough amount of stuffs, it makes me happy because I know everything is useful for every kind of occasion

[@thescarecrow.8581]

I must admit I have tried to minimalize my life. But kitchen gadgets has been the part I have mineralized the most if I don't use it in 3 months it goes into a box if it's not taking out the box in another 3 months it goes out. I have started doing that with other items.

[@stephanienoble421]

I’m reading the minimalist home now, it’s completely changing my outlook!! Love your insight and everything you do. Owning less is decreasing my stress and anxiety, I’m loving it! Still have a ways to go but it’s worth it!

[@stephanienoble421]

Would love to hear about how owning less affected your children and if they still incorporate those values in their own possessions. I have four children under the age of 9 and this is where I get stuck, between the toys, the books, puzzles, art supplies etc.

[@nataliewestcott6731]

The minimal mom on youtube has a ton to say about that.

[@krosario3322]

Yes!!! I have kids, and Minimal Mom has helped me SO much with how to handle all the stuff that seems to accompany having kids. Love her channel!!

[@marleneferrer6532]

Omg the cleaning is more easy when we only have what we need 🙌💯👍

[@LathaLukose]

So true... I purchased your book...it's very nice... I am 60 percent through and I find it easier to work with than the Konmari Method. I used the Konmari Method years ago. My house is back to where it was. I used yours in the hall and my son's room. It works ....clutter didn't creep back in. Your book is in doable chunks especially for someone like me who can't work long hours. Thank you am very grateful.

[@zodiacfml]

Timely video for me as I have been cleaning and removing things from the rest of the house for the past few months. I can say the seven points are undeniable. There's probably more reasons but the biggest reason for me is reducing the need for staying in a job I don't like. I got rid of jobs like I don't need the money.

[@bonnieinthespirit6373]

Sure WISH I HEARD THIS 40 YEARS. AGO!

[@nicholascomninellis4119]

Minimalism is a wonderful idea! I've always been convinced that possessions weigh us down and certainly divert our financial resources.

[@elizabethdrummond9581]

THANK YOU, WE NEED A VIDEO LIKE THIS ONE TO MAKE US THINK. LESS IS MORE!!

[@cocobluebellathegermanshep8581]

Im decluttering and starting minimalism thats why i come across with this video. This is a very clear and great video.

[@Dream35th]

Thank you so much, i'm starting my minimalist journey as a single mom, with two kids and your videos help me a lot. Blessings from Mauritius Island

[@nefflpz.6957]

Great way of thinking and living. I always give thanks for those people whose life inspire me to be a better person. Thumbs up!

[@Bessie66]

I tell myself now “let someone else have that bargain” …. Works everytime

[@tconroymusic]

Hi Joshua. I can nearly pick up everything I own in two hands and with one backpack on my back. I agree with all your points from having practiced them.

[@altitudeiseverything3163]

Great video, but I cringed when I saw the photo of the bike used as an example of an item that requires maintenance and so might be better eliminated from possessions. In the U.S. and many other countries, obesity rates - and related health problems, like diabetes and heart disease - have skyrocketed. People have become much more sedentary, and anything that can get them outdoors and moving should be high on their list of priorities. Have a bicycle in the garage, or a storage area, and never seem to get around to using it? Try parking it in the living room as a reminder, until you establish a firm habit of getting out and riding. Tight on space? Try hanging it on the wall in the entryway, or even - yes - in the living room. With the wall painted a bold accent color, it becomes “art”.

[@mariosblago94]

if you just own a bike for exercise purposes, you can run instead and you'll be saving money AND time. You use more calories running than biking. In some areas, biking is also a hazard. Now, if you genuinely like to bike to get to places, you can't afford a car, or you make a lot of short trips around your general area, then a bike is a good investment.

[@dekaaizer2550]

or try to bike to you're destinations, I go to the shop, work and school with my bike

[@helenaville5939]

I think his point was that there's no real necessity that everyone in the house needs to own a bike. They can share a couple of bikes between them. I grew up in a household where we had three bikes in the family and there were five of us using the bikes. Somehow we never needed one each and it certainly saved my parents money and time not having to fix five bikes. So I get why he showed the image of the father fixing a bike. Sometimes it's necessary but sometimes it's just not. People need to stop and ask themselves if they really need to have one for everyone instead of assuming automatically they must.

[@dekaaizer2550]

Helenaville how the hell should that work, you cant bike somewhere with a family member, you cant bike to work or school in the morning and then get back in the evening bc then you have the bike all day and cant share it.

[@ah5721]

My problem is I live on the second floor dragging a bike down the stairs with two small children who want to come down with me and could fall down the stairs..

[@paulapoblete1090]

It is solving my "kitchen always messy" problem. I dislike cooking but chose to. Interestingly having more kitchen things and appliances made cooking even more of a pain and my kitchen stayed super messy. Now that I challenge what else I can do without, the task become easier

[@MrWatchmen759]

My room was mess because of all the cloth I had that I never wore. No more I will only have like 10 outfits and that’s it

[@cathylynnpietranton]

Thank you for your video I agree with all 7 points.

[@user-sq1gk3fr4i]

Off site storage - would never use or support this type of thing. Glad I live minimally - yet go short of nothing. Great video. Thanks.

[@whatzupLizzy]

H FS I totally agree, my family was poor, but my mother spent money to pay for storage. She could have bought a small house (no joking). I would never rent space.

[@user-sq1gk3fr4i]

@@whatzupLizzy Interesting what you wrote. Hope today you have more in life. Freedom from stored things or clutter, love and everything that is good. Kind regards from Switzerland.

[@bolive88]

As an elementary teacher, I own so much stuff that I end up buying again and again because I can't find my stock.. but this time im trying to be more intentional in owning stuff... This video inspires me.thanks!

[@pinkmagicali]

I spent all of November getting rid of stuff. About 4 giant plastic boxes worth of crap. I still have barely made a dent. The clothes thing is a pet peeve. I literally can’t buy the clothes I want. I can’t find quality clothes that fit me properly. I’ve begun making my own clothes but am on a learning curve in sewing before I manage it. I like heavy weight natural fabrics, I hate fast fashion, and I really dislike modern styles. However it’s almost impossible to find what I want. Until I have the skill to replace the stuff I hate I have to keep it. Esp for work clothes.

[@sandrahickey3593]

I mopped my tiny bathroom floor today, and it took me longer to clear the floor so i could acutally mop it, cleaning products, baskets, a shelving unit in the corner. I decluttered stuff b4 putting them back. Drawers under sink next. So true about the relief of only having a small amount of clothes and clear rooms when we stay in a hotel too. Alot less stress, and the space is wonderful

[@pfamilychannel8880]

All of those points are true. I'm still on my journey of minimizing my stuff.

[@patriciaaxtmayer8927]

You are NOT alone.Take comfort in that & also note that you have many wonderful qualities. I sense that, so be kind to yourself Set a timer for 15-20 min.of de cluttering & realize it's a journey & a challenge that so many of us share.We "assume" ( at least I know that I do, everyone else's home is cleaner than mine; more organized, less clutter.Does that MAKE them better people ?

[@melindaolaughlin2885]

I agree totally, I always thought more was better, but less is better. I am not totally there yet but I know I don’t buy everything I say oh I love that, I can love something with out owning it! Still need to let go of a lot of stuff but my home is breathing a lot better! And I actually know we’re. EVERYTHING is in my home!

[@swapnaasworld8421]

Good video. Owning less things give peace of mind

[@ayeshaali6220]

U explained the last thing... about contented is absolutely true thing👍... as I m practicing minimalism since last one year... after an year.. now a stage has come to my life.. I thank Allah every morning for what I have... and not much urge of having extra things in my life From Pakistan

[@marynadewet4634]

This is an important message ...keep spreading it. These truths need to be said to somewhat counteract the power of the marketing business and their noise. I recently sold my car and did not replace it as I am retired now and do not need to travel to work on a daily basis. My family thinks it is because of poverty but don't understand the I am tired of the schlepps of car ownership. I find that now that I am more at home and less in my car on my way somewhere that I have time for my hobbies such as writing, crocheting and needlework. My admin is also getting more attention. I might buy another car once the Covid thing is done and over with, but for now I am enjoying to go around using taxis. I live in South Africa where new cars are terribly expensive (R300 000.00 and more for a very basic new car) and maintenance cost is also very very high. But it is as if people believe you are slipping into poverty if you try to go by without it.

[@mariadionisiodionisio3062]

Thanks a million for sharing your beautiful thoughts to help so many people God bless you 🙏

[@mauraronda1265]

You are so right. I have found it provides me so much peace. I can actually enjoy my life more!

[@mernie2011]

Whenever I think about buying an item, I now consider whether or not it will be a hassle to maintain. If it is a hassle, I don’t buy it.

[@lessismore9847]

I love your videos you explain everything so simply. Ive been decluttering for months and already its had a huge impact on my life and i complely threw out my wardrobe and bort only basic neutral clothes that is a breeze to match stuff together my life is more stress free and i feel happy. I actually feel happyier without owning much i cant express that feeling enough. I Subscribed im guna watch all your videos i rarely do that

[@sandrahickey3593]

I'm just starting to realise and do something about my cluttered house. I'm doing a little everyday and it feels great to have less stuff already.

[@gebhardt2]

Wow.. That was good. I'm not even a minimalist and I have been selling my crap for 6 months. I feel better and it's because I don't have spares of my spares.

[@gigieyre]

Interesting video. I'm not a minimalist, however I'm not a clutterbug either. I think the key is being content. If you overspend, or your have so much you can't clean it - then its too much. So many people today seem to be endlessly buying stuff to fill an empty space inside. They buy it, it works for a little while but then they are left with too much stuff. That in turn causes stress. Peace, contentment, happiness....those things will can never be filled with stuff. (or the lack of stuff)

[@paulaboynton8299]

Agree agree agree! I am working on minimizing. It feels good. I make frequent trips to the landfill and the Salvation Army.

[@LindaRicaLIVE]

Glad you're supporting of Salvation army and not Goodwill if you do your homework you'll see Goodwill is a high-profile for-profit organization add nowhere near as much benefit goes to the people in need as you might hope... I will often give directly to homeless people and shelters Where they receive same

[@kevinshost4226]

I like to donate to Salvation Army and Assistance League.

[@priscillafrye2951]

I don't think this guy got rid of all his hair care stuff! He's rocking some amazing locks. I wonder if the gray is natural?

[@SisterGee1]

😂🤣😂

[@FilmFanatic-nl2sh]

He's got three girls.... it's natural haha

[@GG-hr8yh]

Graying hair is attractive

[@zio0149]

This is what you get from the video .... seriously ?

[@greatgirl6013]

If you own less It means you are also taking care of the environment It means you taking care our earth Because producing things creates pollution

[@nalinimally3249]

Yes...... Owning less is the solution for everything........ 👍👍👌👌👏👏

[@Amanda-yd2ey]

I’ve always had a minimalist mindset. My parent always encouraged me to paint my teenage bedroom and obnoxious colour or hang posters etc. I liked space from a design aspect. Even as a child I would instantly have buyers regret since the thing I wanted so bad didn’t live up to the expectations I thought it would and more often than not I was disappointed. Those jeans didn’t make me a supermodel. That hair product didn’t make my hair smooth. That makeup didn’t change my face…. These feelings run deeper

[@wanttobeasage2952]

So happy I found this channel. Thank you for posting.

[@TimelordUK]

I love your creative use and choice of background on this. You are a great guy Josh

[@lMcTinal]

Wow, amazing, so true! Love the 7 reasons! One I would add, not being able to find things!

[@williamkazak]

Actually this is one of the very best discussions on minimalism that I ever heard or read. One thing to be aware of is dressing down, being always very casual, can reveal a lack of style and knowledge of wardrobe fundamentals and/or color. Learn what a core wardrobe is people. It is fun and simplifies your life.

[@MsCalcat]

I would add that "getting rid of stuff" should mean responsibly finding places for the stuff to go where it will be used again and be appreciated.

[@ah5721]

Yes! Preach!

[@deniselynn7944]

We downsized 3 yrs ago now I am getting really to retire were going to downsize again my hubby said he will downsize one last time with his tool in a few yrs. At least were doing it.

[@hugskissesxoxoashley9925]

#3 💯💯💯💯💯💯 #4 💯💯💯💯💯💯 Ever since reading your first book it changed my life. My husband is a natural minimalist and now that I have been more mindful of our purchases since major decluttering it has changed our lives! Not spending so much time cleaning and organizing has been a game changer!!!

[@aking3624]

Or buying things you can't find! We just cleared out MIL house. The amount of duplicates was unbelievable... Was able to donate entire bags of scissors, tape, pens, kitchen gadgets & odd pots/pans. It is amazing the breathing room & freedom it provides. 😃

[@MaxsMonthlyChallenge]

Totally agree! Great work 😊😊

[@user-je2lp2iz7e]

Lynn here, it’s amazing how less stuff can make your life so much better. 😄

[@markgconnors7932]

I'll look for your book in the library. I don't have any more book shelf space!😬

[@patriciaaxtmayer8927]

LOVE your statement re: no more space for additional books.

[@susannebader3151]

Love all your Videos. So helpful. Thanks for sharing it. Happy greetings from Germany😃

[@AnimalFarm341]

I emailed an auction house to see if I can unload some antiques that are just making my small home feel so small. It’s time to let them go. I just want space and freedom! Hope I can unload the big stuff in one run! 🙏

[@Humph3rd]

"Not enough money" isn't necessarily true, if I take myself as an example, I recently started "building" a very small apartment layout, and although I am not taking much since I myself am minimalist, the stuff that I decided to take is very expensive, I could have very well spent a quarter of my total budget on this apartment,without being minimalist, but instead spent over 8k in furnishing for a 20m² apartment Simply put, to me at least, "owning less" also often finds itself meaning "owning things of much higher quality" which of course comes at it's own price

[@ah5721]

Agreed! I'm slowly replacing my worn out cheap stuff and I realized I only want good quality items that cost and arm &leg.. apparently when I started being minimalist I also realized I want nicer things and have taste for the expensive 😓.

[@Miss_Annlaug]

All of these check out for me too! So true. Good video

[@minimalistrae9276]

Love your video. It's just a shame that modern society has normalised owning so much, and that a video like this is "off beat"... well I prefer to be off beat and returning to a simpler way of living, which has been normal for so many earlier generations.

[@priscillafrye2951]

If you talk about "earlier generations" the oldest baby boomers and parents of baby boomers are the WORST about stuff! My husband's parents died 3 years ago and we were never able to get rid of anything in their house, including spoiled food. When my poor mother in law broke her hip I was able to clean out her refrigerator - I never saw her do it since I met her in 1991! My kids/millennials are mostly the complete opposite, they are minimalists.

[@Winners24-x8n]

The more we own, the more responsibility we have. Stressful!

[@catherinechen9496]

Less stuff, less worry. More freedom.

[@tastesearching5658]

thank you Mr. Joshua Becker

[@JoshuaBecker]

You are very welcome.

[@shaanz2.087]

This generation is about HOARDER MENTALITY.......never enough

[@ddd1dorin396]

Yes! 7 Times YES! You are sooo right!

[@eckehareckbert2731]

I just shared this with my mom today. Thank u❤️

[@50acrewood]

I’m enjoying your videos so far. My only suggestion would be to say that minimalism helps or brings some relief to these problems. It’s doesn’t necessarily solve them for good like your wording seemed to suggest.

[@KeluargaHatiIlahi]

Thanks You Sir. You are so frankly said and clearly enough to explain all everything about minimalist lifestyle. I am so helped about this and change my mindset alot since I watch ur video. This makes me confirmed to be a minimalist too after I got so doubt how to be minimalist, what is the good, etc etc. But you help me so much to confirm my decision after I saw your video hearing your genious frankly explanation about it. THANKS S MUCH BROOO IN CHRIST. GBU