A Life WITHOUT STUFF! What Extreme Minimalism Taught Me

[@ConnieRiet]

Become a member of our mindful community! The first 100 people to sign up with code OPENINGSALE get 30% OFF a lifetime membership. Go To: www.connieriet.com/plans-pricing

[@Itallnew]

We need so little in life. The truth is, in a couple of generations from now, no one will even remember us or want our things… I think that’s what hurts our hearts…, to know no one will even know we existed, but nothing will change that, no matter how much stuff we leave behind! I really crave this type of freedom but there are certain things I can’t do without. My photos being one of them. I have gotten rid of sooooo many things and haven’t missed anything. The things I have held onto I would miss or want to pass down.

[@mirkodicostola]

I perceived in your eyes the sadness of letting go of the past and memories enclosed in childhood objects. I also wanted to throw away my school notebooks and many things I owned over the years, games, clothes, gifts. Today I still own many things and I don't consider myself a minimalist but I feel that I would like to be one in an extreme way. I feel that material objects oppress me and make me feel like a slave to consumerism. I live with my mother who accumulates and buys lots of things, she can't give or sell anything. This makes it difficult for me to change. However, I understood that it is not things that give us memories, memories exist in our heads and the past does not exist, we must focus on the present and learn that nothing gives us value. The value is ourselves in the world. Our energy, our hands, our smile. It is a difficult and painful change at times but necessary to evolve and also to help the planet that is dying. I hope you are happy, and I hope to be happy one day too

[@dianenoonan2068]

I tried to get rid of some stuff but the memories bring me too much joy. We have started traveling now that we are retired and after 2 weeks I am so looking forward to coming home to my stuff and my bed. This life fits you so well and I so enjoy watching your videos. I am getting rid of some stuff though that no longer suits me.

[@SusanChristmas]

I feel the same way I love being in my home with all the things that give me joy

[@KarlPedal-qu7hu]

Take pictures of the item, i regret none of the item i've thrown away.

[@tinalemna7998]

I love following your journey. Extreme minimalism is not for me. I love my little house and where I live. We have talked about moving to Paris and if we do I’d need to take my mother’s blue mixing bowl, my favorite teapots, my favorite books and artwork. The rest I could easily let go of. I think partially it’s my age. I’m 64 and need a few possessions that are a comfort to me. My cats are a big consideration too as to where we live as they love their garden so who knows what the future brings but I love watching your beautiful videos ❤

[@kennethbailey9853]

One of the Wonderful things about You is Your Wholesomeness. There is so much Lower Level Content today that makes Your Channel All the More Refreshing ! THANK YOU.

[@sharonWT0804]

Now that my children are all successfully launched, I find myself craving, yes, craving the minimalist lifestyle. I cannot get my husband on board. I’m trying my best to do what I can, but I have come to the conclusion that we want different things. I do what I can to minimize our life, and hope for a future where he joins me on the journey.

[@manleeng8590]

I really admire you because you are strong and you have let go of 99.9% of your things but I would never be able to do that. I declutter all things that I no longer use but I am very attached to my home . For me a home with my possessions is important for me. I don’t know if you understand me because without that I will feel unhappy . For me my warm and secure home is more important than any other things.

[@heidischultes2956]

❤

[@gothicheart8086]

Same here - I understand why she had to let go of possessions, but I enjoy my furniture, decor,paintings and books; my home is an extension of my personality.

[@crosenbloom53]

No one needs stuff when you can share your life with what appears to be a loving compatible partner, it’s that enough. You look fulfilled and full of joy and gratitude. Kudos to you.

[@TraceyBergum]

Goodness me...Connie I needed this today as I am really contemplating selling everything it's been on my heart for weeks now

[@LenoreWi]

Totally agree how minimalism liberates you ❤ I’m myself live out of one suitcase and one backpack and change countries every one or two years. That’s a beautiful feeling of freedom 🪽

[@dawnbell475]

I think there is a difference between "owning" less and "needing" less stuff. You might not own dishes for example any longer but you certainly need them...and are using them in each location even if you don't technically own them. We do need certain things, however we come about them, regardless of who owns them.

[@jennyfulcher8035]

I agree that we shouldn't identify with or become distracted by our possessions, yet for me they are still touchstones that keep me grounded and in the present moment. I'm an introvert, so I have a tendency to turn inward and get lost in my thoughts and feelings, so that my external touchstones enable me to reconnect with the outside world, especially whenever I'm depressed, anxious, or having negative thoughts and feelings. They enable me to self-soothe and comfort myself. Of course, that being said, I can simply open my eyes and go on a walk, or call a friend and reconnect with the world outside myself and become present once more. I agree that it would be liberating to let go of my many possessions. Eventually I will have to do this when I downsize to go to a retirement home or assisted care (I'm almost 70 yrs old) and of course, I can't take it with me at the end of my life.

[@juliequick5526]

Totall agree on need of owning less things, but I struggle with more aggressive minimalism.

[@gailhorrocks]

My possessions, though I have minimalized quite a bit since my husband passed away are special. My possessions are examples, treasures, and memories that describe who I am and who we were. I am working on not "wanting" things, and have checked myself many times . I still emerse myself in life...friends, community service, faith, travel. I look up, am grateful and remind mto appreciate.

[@danjobry333]

It's all just stuff!! The more I sell/ donate the more centered and confident I become. I don't miss anything and the cash to pay for groceries is great!

[@bex438]

Hi Connie, I loved listening about your journey and the lessons that living an extreme minimalist lifestyle have taught you. Me and my partner have got rid of around 70 or 80 percent of what we own and are working on minimalising as much as is practically possible. We are really Swedish death cleaning as we have little to no family and doing this is extremely liberating and shows you just how little is really essential, after the necessities are covered the rest is optional.

[@Thomas-Chin10]

To be able to give away things a person once owned is a wonderful thing because not only the object is not wasted, whatever it is, but also it brings new meaning to whoever owns it. The most valuable possession I have is not tangible. It never will be.

[@margarettownsley9500]

Love all your videos I’m so happy that 2023 has been my year from hoarder to minimalist I couldn’t be any more happier about that and I’d like to say thank you connie for inspiring me 🪴🍂🌻

[@Carole616]

So well said and this is now my most favorite video you have ever done.

[@TraceyBergum]

I do believe I agree!

[@xpsxps1339]

Hi Connie, You have no idea how your words in this video hit me. "I am not defined by my car, my house, the city, or the country that I live in." You reminded me of something I had already forgotten until I heard it from you. Funny... I lived like you for a while and felt somehow fulfilled when my world fit into my two suitcases anywhere on this earth. Then, I happened to find a place where I settled. Now for some longer "while." And I suddenly find myself defined (at least in part) by all those things you mentioned, except for the car since I currently don't own one. I scheduled myself and my place for a major decluttering tomorrow and your video found me literally just in time. THANK YOU, Connie!

[@MargaretBieler]

My youngest is now a teen. I’m beginning to let things go. Decor, clothes, stuff. I spent most of today dusting and cleaning and I’m over it. The nature walks you showed are calling my name.

[@theunscriptedsuccessstory8898]

I'm good with letting go of things, not pictures though. They have evoked such fond memories for me over the years.

[@rozitaharun6979]

Thank you for sharing your personal story. I do understand about making drastic changes due to financial crisis and downsizing.I am not sure whether i can be an extreme minimalist but am simplifying my life.

[@juliekay6527]

Connie...you are an absolute gem! From the UK.

[@lindabourketempleton4040]

I’m in the process of decluttering from minimalist to essentialist, and my small memorial box and small displays around my home and a small amount of paper work I plan on taking with me into a motor home from my three bedroom home

[@rustyrules4264]

I’m getting rid of alot of things,but unless you travel non stop,an empty apt isn’t home

[@Dstormy18]

I bet you its the best home for a homeless person

[@briannamontano279]

Home is defined by each individual and looks completely different for everyone!

[@StellaM22]

Just need a smaller apartment then … even more savings

[@marysusa6985]

Thank you for your sweet peaceful videos. They remind me what is possible and that I can enjoy my life as it is. A bit complicated, a bit too much stuff that I will attend to some day. Joy is where I am now and you have reminded me of it. Thank you.

[@ConnieRiet]

I'm so glad you enjoy the content. Thank you for your support!

[@mtnshelby7059]

Is it about the stuff or the value we place on the stuff? When I moved from my home, I unloaded 75% of my possessions and 99% of my furniture. None of it was valuable, but it was useful and it made my life easier. But I walked away with ease. That is the power. I would never weep over any of it.

[@michelezink8677]

Thanks for sharing. This definitely isn't for everyone. I have let go many items during the years, but some I just cannot let go of. My grandpas pipe, my aunts bell, etc. It would be as if they almost didn't exist if I got rid of them. Do you get rid of photos too?

[@sushma932]

Hello Connie.. Been following you for quite a while now and i enjoy watching all your videos. This video conveys a lot about your detached mindset and your spiritual/mindful practices. Only a person like you who has a deep understanding of priorities of life can follow extreme minimalism. I live your habits of loving nature, journaling and yoga and they have made a positive impact in my life. Thanks for the inspiration❤

[@ConnieRiet]

Oh Gosh! Thank you so much for your kind words. They mean more to me than you know. happiness & peace my friend

[@KatjaLS]

Dear Connie, you are happy without any stuff because you are still together with your beloved husband who gives you the frame and security and meaning in life as well. What would you do if you would suddenly lose him? I myself lost my only child (at that time 21 years young) 17 years ago. Recently I also lost my beloved husband, my great love of life, after 35 years of marriage, due to a very severe illness. Now I am very sad, alone and abandoned without any family, and my things and souvenirs from my beloved ones are the only things I still have from them.....Actually I would like to minimise me, but I can't give away things which remind me in a lovely way to my son and husband. It is not really easy for me to handle these sad circumstances and to know what to do. 😢 All the best for you. 🍀

[@ladyfxllc]

I pray you will one day be able to free yourself from the hold of the past. May you keep a few of their treasured items to remember them and grab a hold of the best version of yourself with happy memories, a new found sense of joy, and new people to share your present life with. I wish you lots of blessings and love 💛 🙌 in Jesus' name, Amen.

[@THFrenchteacher]

Your message of placing much of your identity on things made me think. Thank you. 🙏. I recently retired after teaching high school for 33 years. I didn’t realize how much I attached my job to my identity. I’ve been wrestling with that for a few months now. Next, I will work on things. Maybe in the end, I will know more truly who I am. Thank you for sharing. 🙏💜🙏

[@beeARTcanada]

After retiring in 2019, I felt so lost as well, as I associated myself so much with my work. With no more income, no more demanding crazy schedules, no projects, and not needed……I felt adrift and numb for about 1 1/2 years. It took me that time also to learn to relax, and to be fine with doing nothing sometimes. As much as I loved it, I would never go back now to the work I used to do. Am going through a phase right now of ultra decluttering general stuff, and of my past career that no longer means anything to me. It is so liberating. With still great work memories, I have moved on to other interests that suit me better now in this stage of my life. We keep evolving and growing. It’s a process. Enjoy your self discovery!

[@judyhibel2894]

It took me 2 years to finally accept the “That was then. This is now.” attitude about retirement. My professional life was my identity 100%. Give it time. Enjoy learning who else you are and can be!❤

[@beeARTcanada]

I love your last phrase.@@judyhibel2894

[@Mimi-wq5cz]

Merci Connie pour ce superbe partage . Emouvant ( vide grenier 2018) ."The first cut is the deepest" . Vous êtes passée par des moments très difficiles et douloureux ,mais qui vous ont manifestement amenée à prendre le chemin vers la vie dont vous rêviez... "C'est quand on a tout donné, que l'on ne tient plus à rien ....que l'on possède tout ".❤

[@KT-rh7hq]

This was a very relaxing and freeing video to watch. I’m currently paring down my possessions and there’s so many great reasons to keep doing so in your video. Thank you so much! 🙏

[@rahelyirgalem9348]

Wow I love your lifestyle, since my husband died 2019 learned all the stuff is nothing he left everything, since them I’m try to let the stuff go I’m getting there? You’re awesome

[@AmandaMae121]

Thank you for this beautiful video! It was the inspiration my heart was looking for today 😊 God bless 💚✨

[@dianelebowallace904]

very inspiring episode!

[@Ivy-kp9pk]

Love your videos. And it's true, to become a minimalist is not for everyone.

[@ConnieRiet]

I'm so glad you like them!

[@beccavry]

I needed this so much at this moment of my life. Your liberation is so inspiring!!!

[@CoolInOlympia]

Wow! So incredible! Thank you for your insights and sharing!

[@rajanig4421]

What about utensils and cook ware?How can you manage kitchen items in two suitcases?

[@TheQueensWish]

I certainly don’t napking rings anymore. So much marketing occurs to women to set up the Martha Stewart home full of bakeware and hostess serve ware and so much hostess infrastructure that we really need to just reject. Yes, the items are beautiful but so seldom if ever used. In my case wedding China and Crystal never used. It takes up a lot of space. I didn’t even want a registry but friends told me I needed to do it or end up with 7 toasters. This was decades ago.

[@anniecochrane3359]

Very thought provoking!!! Thank you

[@TameraReynoldson]

Wonderful video! Beautifully expressed. Thank you 😊

[@Jbdr984]

This "life without stuff is great" positive message is getting so old. I would really want to hear anything about challenges of living without things, of moving from place to place, of not having familiar items near by, of not having a home to go to or a home to have kids/grandkids over, etc. Was wondering if you think about it, of family traditions, memories, things to pass down to your kids. Yes, memories are wonderful, but I also love the fact that I have an old old wall hanging passed down from my grandma that belonged once to her grandma. Just the thought that I am touching something she touched or looking at that thing warms up my heart tremendously.

[@xpsxps1339]

I would say it all depends on… Who are you, who were your grandma and her grandma, and who are your children. And, of course, what would you like to pass on to them... If you have a secret Renoir that the world hasn't heard of yet, then sure, pass it on to them (not only because of its value - that would really be an ASSET, lol, but because his work is beautiful!). Otherwise, think twice before passing something on to your children. Seriously. I once met a lady who lost her mom and two sisters and inherited 3 houses full of their belongings - all in less than one year, poor lady! She wasn't happy😞; she sincerely mourned their loss, and the houses full of stuff haunted and burdened her long time after they were gone. For a beautiful memory, a few things are enough; a house full of three-generation stuff that one doesn't need is not a blessing...

[@melaniegodwin8791]

Your first sentence really put me off. What do you have against a positive message and why does it put you off? If you are so tired of it I'm sure there are videos you can find of people who aren't positive about their less is more lifestyle and will make you happy.

[@sonialimon755]

Very true to get used to not having things it’s probably a lot easier than when you don’t have a partner to share your life with do you think if you were alone and your kids are grown and you didn’t have a partner do you think you could’ve done the same things that you’re doing now I think there’s a difference because it’s nice to have a companion with you. Thank you for your nice videos!

[@karolinalul5020]

Connie x id love to hear you sharing if you have passed your love to minimalism to your children 🌺🌻🥀🪻🌹💕🌷🌸 sending love from Wales

[@livingoncoffee]

That took courage. Good for you!!!

[@louisianarainwater]

Beautiful words of wisdom 💚

[@kimdenardo1076]

that's a hard concept to grasp for me. the childhood memorabilia, wether it is mine personally or my kids or my husbands. hmmm I got rid of a lot, but need to keep some. especially the handwritten notes to me from my dad who is no longer alive :(. I applaud you for being able to do that - I'm not there yet

[@jenniferours3132]

Love your videos! I love to see how you’re traveling with so few possessions. Have you had to buy any items since you’ve decluttered & moved into 2 suitcases? If so, please make a video on that! Just so us minimalists can see if anything is still necessary in your opinion as we continue to remove & pair down our possessions. ❤

[@kimberlylalley7255]

FREEDOM!

[@valeriyamakarevich857]

So inspiring! Thank you for sharing. Please, tell what is your actual work now? ❤

[@marionharding6015]

We had the same experience ❤

[@amotoAK]

Love your videos! Beautiful scenery❤️❤️❤️

[@theloveyourfacegal2773]

Wow that was a big leaf 🍃 maybe bigger than an umbrella lol. Another great video 👍 😊

[@thelmaperez5328]

Fantastic video we should no be defined by where you live, what you wear ect. Keep up the good work. Greetings from Panama

[@mezwilson]

I love your videos! Thanks Connie.

[@ConnieRiet]

I'm so glad!

[@johng.4959]

Great and thoughtful video. Thank you!

[@edwizard62]

First. That you for these wonderful videos.

[@terryfeally6633]

I can get rid of all material things. The personal mementos(photo albums featuring people since passed)are the hardest to part with. But they do add weight to the load. How does one deal with that?

[@elenathomson4143]

1.11 seconds in.... I already love your view ❤

[@andreafanara950]

Moving abroad in a week has me at this point of letting go things no longer serve me. I'm carrying Just 2 suitcases, 1 with personal valuable things & 1 with clothes

[@sweetlampe]

Thank you. I think the minimalist lifestyle is good.Just wondering, will you ever buy another home and settle in one place again?🙂

[@krieskteyan]

after marriage and all of a sudden bancrupt, having a child and my wife is my only motivation to live, sold all my stuff to pay our debts,, that's how i became an extreme minimalist for almost 2 years now.

[@minimalistsmanaged]

What a beautiful video :) I'm so glad I stumbled across your channel :) Instant sub! :)

[@ConnieRiet]

Welcome! I'm glad you are here

[@lindasizemore2891]

Great videos

[@olivemaycards]

Beautiful scenes. I’d love to know where these scenes were filmed and what you’re looking at, even if it’s just a caption with a place name.

[@ConnieRiet]

I filmed this video in Costa Rica. Great tip! I'll try to include more locations in the description.

[@davidcawrowl3865]

The very word "extreme" makes me feel a little leery.

[@ToniKnorr-rh4mz]

I could get rid of stuff but could Never live without my pups

[@theminervatalkies]

How about all the self care stuff...creams and what not..they are such a headache and create so much waste

[@ElectroTone]

Enjoy your minimalist lifestyle, Connie. 🥳 With love. - All the engineering and scientist pack rats, who made the airplanes, satellites, computers and networking equipment, which makes your world go round, possible.

[@angelasinyard3743]

Awesome video

[@dilnozanutfullayeva6275]

Being a minimalist also depends on culture .I'm Asian and even though I try hard I cannot get rid of some stuff.For example we throw lots of parties in our houses So we need many dishes plates cutlery and so on.Still I'm not used to keeping old clothes. Besides we reach the things with hard work So it's not easy to just throw away the valuable things.

[@ConnieRiet]

Thank you so much for sharing your input and personal experiences. Any lifestyle (including minimalism) should fit within our individual goals, family, and culture, and include the things we love about life. It's wonderful to host family and friends for gatherings, they are the soul of our joy. ☺☺💗☺ happiness and peace my friend

[@daveandrade8189]

Plenty of folks in Acapulco are learning minimalism overnight. Many of them are way too poor be able to replace what they've lost. Prayers for them. L.

[@Aiko-uo2bt]

You are lucky to be able do live as such and traveling around the world with your husband. Most of men in my culture would never do so!

[@jessicaselenecenteno]

What you own, owns you.

[@ConnieRiet]

absolutely!

[@JK-vc7ie]

People can do what works for them, of course, but for me, I’m not a fan of the extreme. I love the minimalist approach to life, but minimal doesn’t mean having nothing, IMO. I use a lot of things over the course of a year. I want to keep all of those things that I use. But eliminate what I don’t use.

[@vivianhensington1717]

Call me crazy but I miss my old bed (now it’s my parents bed and my dad needs it as it helps him get rest after his declined health so I can’t get it back) also I can’t live without a fan or running water or my blanket lol and my tea kettle and electric pot thing have made my life easier lol I feel like I want to be minimalistic but I love to buy things that make my life easier 😢

[@Smithpolly]

From what you say, you sound fairly minimalist. You're using all the things you have mentioned on a regular basis not just sticking them in an attic to gather dust.

[@BudgetwithKristina]

Where are you living now, looks beautiful

[@lindsayhall6773]

Hi Connie, just to say and it's not a critism. You are a beautiful person, but lately you look tired and in my humble opinion you are getting too thin. Thank you for your inspiring videos,l have learnt so much. As an ex nurse, be careful with MCT oil as it can lead to a fatty liver if taken long term. God bless you. Keep up the good work and love to you. Xx

[@ConnieRiet]

Hi Linday, You are so kind to be concerned. How very observant💗 and sweet of you. I think that I full time travel is taking it's toll on me. I'm sure it's nothing a little rest can't fix. Sending you thoughts of peace and happiness my friend ☺

[@leblanc_papillon]

Yoga mats and ‘ukuleles, we are kindred spirits 🙏❤🎶☮️

[@ConnieRiet]

☺🎸🙏

[@joannedunkerson7075]

The audio on your presentations is much too low. It's hard to hear you. Turn it up, please.

[@carmydeleto4325]

What did you do with pictures. Memories

[@ConnieRiet]

I sent most of them to my grown children, scanned the rest, and I have kept a small photo album that I bring where ever I go.

[@1yotube]

You have a lot of nice videos but the message in this one will bring you further up!!! 8:48 !!!!!!

[@deericcio3379]

To identify myself as a piano player, I need a piano to play….

[@joaquifernandez9757]

❤

[@chinchorrero]

👍❤

[@sophie3588]

My self worth is in Jesus Christ!

[@SoulSips]

❤🙏😇

[@BT-fp3wv]

Ah no, keep the childhood book memories. Thats going to far.

[@bryanpratt5850]

4:03

[@robinadair8918]

You’re not really living without stuff. Now you’re just using other people’s stuff.

[@charlottelelele1668]

yeah well it is more about owning stuff, not using it when borrowing something