Minimalism: 12 Things I Stopped Buying

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[@ConniBiesalski]

What have you stopped buying? What do you think about my video? :)) I am exploring new ways to share my stories and ideas. It's not perfect at all, but let me know how you like it!!

[@plainvoice4460]

Conni Biesalski trying to stop buying bubble tea and starbucks drinks, good for my health and my wallet, trying my real best now!

[@swylie830]

Paper towels! We use cloth napkins and I let the kids pick the material for theirs 🙂

[@debbierafferty2433]

I thoroughly enjoyed your video. But, please, re-edit the closed captioning. It takes away from the integrity of your message.

[@arnelorda5130]

I will join your advocacy!

[@masongtarkang791]

Clothes: do you buy clothes for each season? What do you do with your winter clothes?

[@lavy1513]

I need my books. There's nothing like physical turning a page, smelling a new book and underlining my favorite quotes.

[@utkua]

Oh please... get over it.

[@gabrylmack5084]

Agree, I hate reading on screen . I love books 🥰

[@dreamingflurry2729]

While I usually don't underline stuff in books (unless they are books for school (re-training in Germany sends you back to school, so I am a student again ATM) or for learning a skill etc.), I get wanting to have a physical book! I have my own tiny library (I own several hundred books) :)

[@nikkil764]

I practice aesthetic minimalism instead. I only want things that are truly beautiful. So many minimalists become obsessed with plain, colorless living. Color feeds my soul. If I am going to have only two bowls, I want them to be the most beautiful bowls I have ever seen preferably with a story to tell. Maybe an antique porcelain bowl that I got in Paris or one that belonged to my grandmother when she was a child.

[@mb-sg3ji]

I agree with this. Your things don't need to be boring.

[@hannahyount6476]

I didn't know this is a thing but this is much more appropriate for me! Thank you!

[@nm9412]

They paint minimalism so gray, that kind of discourages me to become a minimalist. I like your idea of being aesthetic minimalist.

[@carieyounginsurance]

I agree! I’m exactly like this too...I love beautiful things...and I’m a minimalist as well

[@DaniStenko]

@@Thorsdaughter007 yes, but what the OP meant - as I understand it - is that many people who blog about minimalism show only the blank, grey side of things. They have blank, ugly clothes, their dishes are likewise very ikea-like, heir walls and furniture nothing but pastel grey and white. the artworks on their walls - all ikea, simple, person-less. All their inerior decor looks like bought in the same shop. It's called fashion. W used to have punks in the 70s, then grunge in the 90s, then the early 2000's came and we had depressed emos. Now we have depressed and depressing post-milennials fighting the system of consummerism. It's just another ideology-driven fashion. They're all the same. The don't wear bovver boots or flanel shirts or big fringes covering a side of the face. Instead, they wear white, ikea crap. That being said - I am an aesthetic minimalist too. I got rid of more than a half of all of my belongings, my mindset has changed, I'd love to - one day - own as much as I can pack into two suitacases, sure... but I also would want to have it beautiful and not grey and boring.

[@Lol-gy9qd]

I sold my home and got rid of all my possessions about two years ago..I now travel solo full time House sitting my way around the world with 5kg of carry on luggage. I have a few items stored in my sons garage and that's all I own. I'm 65yrs old and this is one of the best decisions I've ever made. For me to it's all about freedom and it's wonderful.

[@lolymar3277]

Love it!!!!!

[@papermason]

I'm 60 and this really appeals to me, maybe not for a long time, but for a little while. Maybe travel around Canada.

[@nanjappa42]

jacqueline davis. You are so right. Our Hindu scriptures ask us to leave home and everything, and proceed to the forest to live a life of study and contemplation. This is after a stage, when we have discharged our duty to society, so that we may live without being a burden on society. You are practising that. We have great freedom from care and worry when we have few possessions. The ancient Tamil poet-Saint Tiruvalluvar said: யாதனின் யாதனின் நீங்கியான் நோதல் அதனின் அதனின் இலன் which means: Whatever thing a man has renounced, he has attained freedom from the pain ( grief) due to that thing.

[@celinedionrocks]

Wow I wish I could do that soon on my 60s. I think you made the right decision. ❣️ Good luck to you.

[@danam4536]

@@nanjappa42 what language is that?

[@bossmeow7628]

i used to love buying lots of clothes, shoes,purse etc. a year ago i stopped that habit. i only buy basics like food, soap if i run out. im totally changing slowly. im proud of myself

[@twincherry4958]

Well, you dont need any of those things anymore. You already have 'em :)

[@ESport211]

Good for you. Glad you were able to have such a powerful realization and we're able to act on it!

[@jermainebalanggoy9452]

@@ESport211 yes, a lot of changes too in my life that made me realize that I do not need a lot of things to be happy. As ling as I have a roof to stay, food to eat, car to bring me places i need to be and basic needs that's it. I rather have less and be happy than have more and still wanting more and not happy at all. I want to save to travel and enjoy the experience of life not save to buy material things that are just ending up as clutter.

[@alysononoahu8702]

Exactly Food Bus pass Concert tickets Day sails Advil

[@evelynp.5811]

love that for you!

[@steelheart4148]

I got rid of my ex-wife and started saving a ton of money.

[@dean4125]

I think that doing this will save me a lot of money.. 90 percent of the junk in my house is hers lol. she shops almost daily at ROss or Tj maxx. i cant stand it..

[@mmowec8159]

Lmao

[@irishb-k1j]

Hahahahaha

[@stevengreen7100]

Good one! Wives are a drain.

[@111-w9d7y]

I got rid of my ex husband. The quality of my life improved so much. He was so focused on a set lifestyle and saving money in a bank. Yet he was so poor inwardly. My life now is so great and living in Switzerland is surely the best for me. My life is so enriched.

[@gabichete]

1. Fast fashion clothing 2. Physical gifts 3. Shiny tech gear 4. Physical books 5. Body lotion 6. Jewelry 7. Extra pairs of underwear 8. More than 2 pairs of shoes (+ flip-flops!) 9. Notebooks 10. Souvenirs 11. Special occasion clothing 12. Just-in-case items

[@ConniBiesalski]

thanks for the summary ;)

[@gabichete]

@L. A. McDonough my list is just the video's list. I copied it for easy referencing for those who are watching the video and want to paste it into their journals or the like :)

[@barbaraannen3340]

I dont buy any of this crap and I'm not a minimalist

[@bluebutterflywellness2273]

I have SO many shoes and dresses! 😣Ive already gotten rid of a garbage bag full and STILL have way more. I'm SO overwhelmed!😥 Also kitchen gadgets are my weakness, BUT I use them ALL!

[@victorfilm_]

Gabriel González Vázquez thx for listing!

[@LenaM277]

As a middle aged hoarder, this video is so inspirational. Shopping is an addiction that can be conquered, thanks to folks like you!

[@mushuchicken8256]

My dad's a hoarder and I've picked up hoarding tendencies from him. I'm slowly throwing out stuff I haven't looked at in months or years... I won't say it's easy as you know, especially if it's good, usable stuff. Most of it for me is sewing material and art supplies. But I'm determined and if I donate it, at least it won't go to waste if someone needs it more than me. The value of having a clean home and room to think is far more important for me than this crap overtaking my space.

[@ajmalseuisoky3435]

Minimalist and frugality is good anxiety fear depression go away easily if this is in us because we have a wide good and fresh environment we also had this little mess before.but go try motivate much better 😊

[@coach.kari.becken]

Many years ago an older friend told me, 'the more stuff you own, the more your stuff owns you' - I didn't fully grasp what he meant back then but as I have grown older, I totally get it. Have gone through purges and de-cluttering phases but I want to do more. And, oh my my did the special occasion clothing and just-in-case items categories resonate with me. Thank you for sharing!

[@carlkligerman1981]

Quote is loosely paraphrased from "Fight Club". Verbatim I think its "the things you end up owning, end up owning you". Very true nevertheless.

[@vincentconti3633]

@@carlkligerman1981 it's an old old philosophy...even a little before the "movies"!!

[@itsmee2023]

If you have to go to a wedding but are in this situation. Someone who is from Asia, we have massive and decorative weddings, coming in jeans bouyyy will they judge you so hard. One thing I found that works well is that renting a dress or outfit. You pick up the outfit, wear it and drop it off. So you don't have to have this fancy clothing in your wardrobe that you probably won't wear again. I found I might just share this...😁

[@ConniBiesalski]

Yes renting is a great idea if it is necessary!

[@itsmee2023]

@@ConniBiesalski Exactly! Thanks for liking 💖👍

[@sunrae7680]

@kookie. I was a bridesmaid in my friend's wedding. Dress was ugly and rented, loved giving it back to the store.

[@itsmee2023]

@@sunrae7680 Hahahaha I love it! There we go, imagine if you had to buy it????

[@sunrae7680]

@@itsmee2023 UGH !!! It had a huge bow on the back. I did not pose for ANY pictures. Yesss.

[@karenraby8241]

I really enjoyed just listening to you talk without the use of inappropriate dirty language. Such a rare thing these days. I was able to listen to the whole video in front of my children without having to explain what's not every day conversation. Congratulations to you!! Additionally, I like your ideas and definitely agree shiny things being a consumable hazard. Although I have a house full clutter and it is a work in progress with young children, I get and respect the concept (although I have always disliked shiny stuff). I am struggling to keep minimalistic with young children and their artwork.. toys and wants.... so i appreciate this motivator. We are huge on experiences. xx

[@dreamingflurry2729]

Ok, I get that constantly swearing would be bad (only immature people and rebellious teens do that IMHO) - but trying to protect your kids from "bad words" is just dumb IMHO. Kids can easily understand that this is not how normal people talk after all - I mean I watched adult films at a quite young age and I knew that people weren't usually running around and beating each other up or worse: Gunning each other down in the street!

[@karenraby8241]

@@dreamingflurry2729 so how old are you And how old are your kids? Mine are definitely too young for uneducated foul language. Once they're old enough they'll watch what They want. I also saw films etc in my youth. Most of it was simply rubbish when I look back ... this video was refreshing. Maybe overthinkong my comment....

[@jkllfdsa]

The only one I'm uncomfortable with: Not wearing anything that's dressy. Ever. Sometimes we dress up for *others* in a *good* way, and not for ourselves. For example: for a funeral, a wedding, a bar mitzvah, etc. It's not about "me" and what makes "me" comfortable. Wearing a suit or sport coat or a dress or a skirt to a funeral, even if it's uncomfortable, won't kill any of us. It shows *respect* for the honored person(s) or their family/loved ones. If I or anyone shows up to a funeral visitation wearing jeans -- especially when nobody else does -- it's a distraction that draws (possibly negative) attention to oneself. It is simply inconsiderate to draw attention to oneself when attention should be on the honored person(s). It's fine not to *own* dressy clothes: Just get or borrow or rent some for when the next event calls for it. But don't use "minimalism" as an excuse to disrespect others at an important even that calls for semi-formal or formal attire.

[@mitzymorris6573]

Dhumma Vati agreed. I would hate if someone came to my wedding in jeans and converse. Rent a dress pants and a nice blouse.or go to the thrift shop, but show some respect for the occasion..... it can’t be always all about you and how you feel.

[@RG-hf4et]

It's very possible to buy a basic black, simple dress that would be appropriate for a meeting, a funeral, a wedding, or other occasion. The shoes or the purse could dress it up or down......I hate getting dressed up for anything so I have a lot of black items: pants/blouses-short sleeve, long sleeve/cotton tops/a black skirt, etc. Add a sweater or a jacket, shawl, and the look changes.

[@bibbiana4Lyfe]

A simple black dress or black slacks & top can cover most of these.

[@helengren9349]

At 9.32 You mentioned " uying things when needed then & there".. One doesn't need to buy dress for speciall ocasion, You can hire those.. There are places, they wont let You in, in case you wear jeans...

[@howardkerr8174]

Sorry, but I can't completely agree. My parents passed away a few years ago, and if it's a choice of coming to a visitation in CLEAN, casual clothes...or not coming, I think the family would prefer you came. Recently one of my uncles passed. I remember 2 things about the visitation and service that followed: a few relatives that live close by did not show up and my uncle's brother-in-law who is a dairy farmer showed up in his work clothes, but a very clean set of clothes. I think my aunt, his sister, with her Alzheimer's didn't really notice and I assumed from the way my aunt's sister was dressed, that the family was barely getting by. If you have access to nice clothes, by all means wear them to "special occasions". If you don't, come anyway, just don't draw undue attention.

[@mdascoota4293]

That is a very good idea, no more presents! give a favour, service, compliment, quality time etc. Thumbs up!

[@RG-hf4et]

I have been doing this a very long time. I give gift cards for restaurants most of the time or theater tickets/gift certificates. It saves me the time and expensive of wrapping paper, too. I love getting restaurant gift cards!

[@plissabarrett7358]

My truck is sitting outside tonight with about 90% of my stuff to haul off to the Goodwill tomorrow.

[@ConniBiesalski]

Congratulations :) enjoy letting go!!

[@topcheese2889]

Plissa Barrett 3 months later, do u miss your stuff or rebuy any of it?

[@kindredspirit3875]

also my truck is full waiting for day light! found charity that sales to raise money to help those in trouble /gives our stuff to help thoes who are with out stuff- victims of crime against body and souls. Peace

[@teekayrezeaumerah]

Plissa Barrett that’s what’s up

[@benandbeebrace7718]

I'm not a minimalist & don't think I ever will be 😳 but I like your videos for how they make you think. It has definitely inspired me to get rid of some of the things I own that I don't need anymore 👍🏻

[@ConniBiesalski]

and that's the reason I make those videos ;) even if they inspire just a little shift in perspective and in people's lives, all the work was worth it!!

[@benandbeebrace7718]

@@ConniBiesalski completely! Thank you! 😊

[@alanbirkner1958]

From Tina--- I am almost 70. I get most clothes secondhand or free. I never buy perfume or cosmetics. We keep giving things away. I have been emptying pieces of furniture and giving them away. Most of our furniture was from garage sales many years ago.

[@pitrescue]

A good lesson to be learned and to live your life by! I have to move soon and I have a 2500 sf home full of stuff in every room plus a two car garage full. I've recently started watching vids of a family of 12 that lives minimally. Not too long ago they packed up and were able to move out of their huge home very quickly because of the few things they had! I wish I saw a vid like this 30 years ago, but better later than never.

[@sunnidazze4908]

Is the family of 12 that lives minimally on youtube, what's the channel?

[@WatersandWilderness]

Thank you Conni. I've been forced to downsize. I am currently living in a van that I had built into a tiny home (without a shower). I always manage to get showered so no worries there. I have a history of having a lot of "things". Even still, I have too much as I am paying for a garage to store some of my "things" that I should unload. I went from making excellent money to being harmed prolifically during workers comp medical procedures. I now live in chronic pain and cannot work. Never, did I ever, think that I would wind up in this position wherein I am unable to work and make money. So, now I am learning albeit slowly, to live in a small space.

[@mushuchicken8256]

Funny enough, I'm trying to get where you are. The crap I own clutters my mind and I've fantasized about living in a tiny home or van. I figure I'll just get a 24 hr gym membership for showers and such. Sounds so liberating from a standpoint where I feel suffocated. Sorry to hear about your situation... but I'm glad you've found the positives in it.

[@scratchy271]

I am a minimalist as well. I do not eat out because it is unhealthy and saves $$. I do not even own a TV. I would rather have the $$$ saved and have that security rather then spend my hard earned money on things I will not really need. With that said , I keep emotion out of buying. I ask myself if I " need " or just " want " something. It makes things much simpler and I save the green:) Good video.

[@ConniBiesalski]

thanks for sharing!! It really helps to check in with ourselves and learn how to distinguish between "need" and "want"!!

[@johnentwhistlesurelysamsun1840]

Quite right too, i dont like tv's either, and also dont have one, i got rid of almost everything, it was costing at least 2000 to keep it in storage anyway, now its gone ive never been happier!!

[@mykilahsenwilliamsdorsey1495]

This is a good video. Everyone has to go on their own journey with this concept. The temptation to be a fundamentalist with any philosophy or religion is always there. If a little of doing something is good then doing the extreme must be better. No not necessarily. If only owning two pairs of shoes works for you that’s great, but I’m not giving up shoes I’ve had for years that I love just because I only wear them four times a year. My point is simply this: being a good minimalist or anything else has more to do with being honest with yourself than getting rid of almost everything. Because we live in such a consumer saturated society, it can become a game to see how much we can live without. Well I was in the military and lived with next to nothing for a while in my youth but I didn’t feel like a minimalist. I was roughing it because of necessity. Being addicted to stuff is bad; being addicted to not having stuff is bad. In case I haven’t made myself clear, addiction is bad. Honest self discovery leads to true freedom. The number of material things each of us has will be different based on being true to yourself.

[@mindjoystudio6436]

I like to go between about 4 or five pairs of shoes. The pairs last longer and it is good for your foot too.

[@DanielIles]

I love what you are talking about. I started getting rid of almost everything in my house and it *completely* changed my behavior and spending habits on a daily basis.

[@daniellamoreno3616]

How did you do it?

[@mariaa.5829]

Spending much LESS, are you?

[@rdsginia7499]

Cleaning products I make my own vinegar in a glass jar for cleaning using rainwater, apple cores, and honey. It costs me less than a dollar for a gallon and uses no plastic. It has many other uses such as being a natural antibiotic, astringent, fabric softener and deodorizer, vegetable wash, salad dressing.

[@1985bjaycat]

I've never heard of that combination. What are the ratios and why applecore and honey?

[@frugalfani2006]

Yes, vinegar is so useful! So is baking soda! #Frugalfani

[@iztacmetztlivela3646]

I lost my house so I rent a storage for almost 12 years, my Mom passed 4 yrs ago and didn't wanna get rid of her stuff.. A year ago I saw a video of a minimalist and it caught my attention since then I've been looking at different ones but none of them give me the option on how to start. Thank you because today I decided that the time is now. You gain a new subscriber 🤟☺️

[@foozjen]

It's difficult to get rid of things that belonged to someone we loved. I have some of my grandmother's old books from her book club days. I can't seem to part with them because they represent her to me. She died when I was young and those books are really all of I have of her. I do need to do something so I have decided to finish reading them all and then pass them on to someone else. I may take a picture of them as well, but I realize I don't need to keep them to remember her by.

[@mushuchicken8256]

@@foozjen This is very insightful :)

[@lindsaywillcocks8586]

a life without things gives me head space and freedom and it feels so good. Thank you for sharing.

[@Sunny-sc6pf]

I’ve gotten/getting rid of so much stuff I rarely use or don’t like. Use the mostly now empty pantry and linen closet for pots/art supplies, etc. Just changing how I organize my things based on how I use them. Decluttering is best when you are very precise about whether or not you actually use/need it so much that it takes up space in your place. It has meant a lot less time dealing with or dreading dealing with stuff that is meaningless. I’m on a mission.

[@geethanair3160]

Connie, just last week I donated two huge boxes of wearable clean clothes which used so much of space at home. I also gave away unwanted jars and kitchen stuff. My house looks bigger and more spacious and just like what you said I am enjoying a new found freedom now!

[@leal536]

My daughter and son-in-law live a very minimalistic lifestyle. They have 4 children and my daughter does not work outside the home. They carry no debt and have quite a bit in savings. I am so proud of them at their age - most people at 30-35 have so much in debt and sometimes cannot see their way out.

[@Realatmx]

It's really a great things they dnt carry debt..

[@heliumhelium7884]

While watching this video, I looked around my room and felt so „crushed“ by all the items I have. One thing I have now decided to give away are my board games. I use them so rarely and I will give nearly all of them to the board game collection that the student representative club at my faculty has (they organize regular board game nights and I feel like they can use these games more than I do).

[@pinwheelgrl9304]

Yes, they weigh you down. That's how I feel right now. Kind of like makes sense to the Fung Shi stuff, create more space for energy to flow.

[@TheGFeather]

For me, living abroad was the best lesson in minimalism/spending control I could ever get. Every time I went to buy something I would ask myself if it fit into one of three categories 1)Functionally necessary on a daily/weekly basis 2)Special/valuable enough to be worth shipping home 3)Something I was comfortable enjoying for a time and giving away when I left. This kind of systematic thinking every time I went to purchase something made me really consider everything I bought. Did I need that pot for my kitchen? I decided on the most multipurpose one and used it nearly every time I cooked. Should I buy that beautiful plush blanket? I enjoyed it for the winter and liked enough that I decided to ship it home and still use it 15 plus years later. Is art for the walls of my flat important? I chose some inexpensive posters that took up more space and gave them away when I left, and also would have been fine throwing away, instead of buying something fancy I would have felt bad about leaving behind. I don't always manage it. I've definitely fallen off the wagon a fair few times, but I always try to cast my mind back to when my life fit into two suitcases and how liberating that was. Being able to pack up and be ready to leave in under an hour was a powerful feeling. I can't say that of my life any more, but I do try to remember that my purchases should be intentional rather than impulsive.

[@johnentwhistlesurelysamsun1840]

Me as well, when i moved abroad i just became a mimilist big time !! and it worked spendidly for me!!

[@pattiecake11]

I agree with most everything on your list, except I love books and still have about 30 of them. I also love notebooks and love writing in them.

[@jenny-wc8qy]

Too much internet is bad for the brain so I believe in physical books! It interferes with sleep & there's so much not known. It's very relaxing to have a book in your hands.

[@RG-hf4et]

@@jenny-wc8qy You can still use the library and get a physical book and return it.

[@childfreesingleandatheist8899]

R G: It’s not the same. I like smelling MY books and sometimes I like to have them handy to read them again (to refresh my memory) or for a quick reference. Book ownership is unique and a part of me.

[@gwarlow]

pattiecake11 If you "love" these things, then they probably add value to the quality of your life. Congratulations on your meaningful choices.

[@romerolaurelo2893]

me too! Rare and classic books are important to me too. Notebooks and the physical act of writing on paper retains memory and is a more direct form of expression. I also agree that too much reliance on technology will not make us happy. #NOTO5G

[@ztsyxcvg]

AWESOME VIDEO, CONNI! Absolutely love the style of it and of course your words. I call myself a minimalist, but I am coming more from the ethical and environmental side of it. Got rid of a bunch of stuff a few years ago when I moved out of my parents house and really asked myself what I really need when it comes to buying stuff. I still own kind of a lot of things, but not as many as the average person my age. I still have a bunch of items I will slowly use up, so I’ll keep them around, even though they’re not really regularly needs of mine. Minimalism is not just the things we own or we don’t own, it’s much more a mindset how we value things and every thing we do.

[@ConniBiesalski]

happy you like this video!! took forever to shoot and edit, so it's great to hear, when you guys appreciate it! My reasons for being minimalist are definitely also many-fold and ethical/environment are definitely part of it as well!

[@mikerulon]

I see everything except the jewelry, I am assuming that minimalism has something to do with spirituality, and to me that idea of bliss, it often comes from the sublime, art, jewelry can be that. Having something that another person created that is awe.... and being able to appreciate it, and support a way of life that creates things that matter.

[@spinweho]

You’ve motivated me to do a huge end of year purge and really weed out the crap I don’t use. And I always donate to a good cause and recycle recycle recycle! Thanks for a great video!

[@ConniBiesalski]

ohhhh that makes me so happy to hear :))) HAVE FUN DECLUTTERING!!

[@sitns23]

I was minimalist when I was a teen and didn’t even know! Well, I was just poor ... but I can tell you this... my life was simple and I gave value to the 3 pairs of shoes I owned! After being able to afford things, I got a lot of stuff and now I’m going back to having less, it’s liberating when you become minimalist as a choice. 😊

[@TexasAlabama]

I love this! You know, as a mom, one thing I HATE!!!!!! Goodie bags from bday parties, stuffed full of crap! I recently found 4 that my daughter never even looked into. FOUR, four bags full of tons of little crap, I sent it all to Goodwill. I'm guilty of having a lot of books and journals, LOL I love to write, I want my daughter to have something with my handwriting on it when she gets older, I love my mother's old letters. But I make concessions with other areas in my life, I get rid of lots of things, such as shoes, I had so many shoes! I never wore half of them, I don't buy make up anymore either, I used to have 10 different eyeshadow palettes at any given time, now I pick one neutral palette and that's it.

[@williamssister8804]

Recently I've had some financial difficulties do to several money sucks, happening at once. I've come to realized how much money I've wasted on buying clothing. I have over a thousand dollars of just in case special occasion clothing in my closet, I've never worn. Not to mention my designer handbags and shoes, I've spent thousands on. I'm done!! Maybe not a complete minimalist, but very much self aware.

[@twincherry4958]

Sell those clothing at consignment shops or mercari, poshmark, Ebay

[@55mikeburns]

You're so right that "things don't make us happy". People need to remember this and they emphasize the other aspects of life that make our time here better (relationships, experiences, travel, learning).

[@non-monogamousmark]

You say so many great things in this video. I like to accumulate things that are more in the energetic realm like; knowledge, intentionality, experiences, friendships, relationships, love, deep connections and skills. I love to experience and share these things with people I enjoy keeping company with.

[@mrchopsticks3]

Interesting, because it seems most people choose to be minimalists when it comes to knowledge or anything deep.

[@ccbee232]

Wearing jeans to a wedding? I understand being comfortable (and that some weddings are super relaxed), but I'd feel strange not respectfully "dressing for the occasion" going on such as a wedding.

[@renskedj]

I bought a dress for 30 euro cause a collegue got married and I had absolutely nothing except jeans and t-shirts and the rest said they'd go in a suit. Turned out to be a joke. They all showed up in jeans. Tsssss.

[@upkeepconquerer2788]

i definitely am new to minimalism but i can already feel the change. I've stopped buying unnecessary clothes that i don't need and accessories as well. instead of spending money on different cheap quality products, i now spend my money on one quality item like a good quality bag or headphones.

[@ConniBiesalski]

That’s already really good! One step after another!!

[@tranger4579]

Great video, years ago in the nineties I was a pure minimalist and then I bought in to more stuff more happiness and over the years I realized how miserable things made me. I missed the true freedom with no debt, riding my bike to work or to the store for a few items, and able to move at the flip if a dime. I so glad I have returned to my old minimalist life style and I'm very happy. Thanks for up tips in what not to buy.

[@TheWayWeSawIt]

A really good one, thank you. When traveling with only 18 kg each, we became minimalists by force too and it feels, as you say, very liberating. Thank you for sharing. 😘

[@ConniBiesalski]

yes, being a traveller definitely helps to realize how little we actually need to be happy :)) lots of love!!

[@NicksFort]

This is great! I got into minimalism about 2 years ago and I love it. My wife and I are doing experience gifts this year for Christmas :)

[@ConniBiesalski]

That’a awesome! Experiences FTW! Thanks for stopping by and great to connect! Love your work, Nick!

[@daniellamoreno3616]

Love it!

[@joselozano356]

Does me being poor make me a minimalist

[@tomdavis3038]

Jose Lozano That’s an interesting question

[@xlady7772]

Well it fits me and I'm proud

[@jackiestarr2881]

LOL!

[@loryam3003]

I dont think so...it makes you rich because you are living a free life...free of clutter/junk. Enjoy it

[@sherlockeholmes9771]

not by choice

[@Mashkoor110]

connie you just confirmed my early morning epiphany! i believe the universe is trying to tell me something. i will be selling my stuff and moving where i am happier (with my children). the universe sent your video my way for clarity of my thoughts. i have already stopped buying readymade clothes and have stopped buying gifts at christmas/birthday etc. you are a higher being. thank you. xx

[@stephanierachel2326]

Awesome video! I've gotten some good ideas from your list. I've gotten rid of disposable plastic straws. A good start to my minimalist journey.

[@helengren9349]

Don't forget all plastic clothes... Polyester, etc... That are releasing nanoplastic mess into our waters...

[@jeannemarie3704]

💘 this! I have always been frugal and can say I don't buy new and with 3 kids my kids have simple and what they need. I rather have experiences. We have been lied to that we "need" things we really don't. Luv your vids and you are beautiful person!!

[@wordsong1965]

I rarely take notes when I watch KZbin videos, but I did this time! THANK YOU, CONNI! I am dealing with hoarding--both myself and my husband. We are not as severe as the hoarders that you see on that show, but I see how it could get that way! I just assessed my finances and cringed! I have created needless credit card debt buying things that I don't need and will NOT make me happy. I shop when I am depressed and now I am actually feeling buried beneath things so the shopping has only fueled my depression. The debt is very serious so I need to get out from under it. I did start clearing out clutter, but I think that I need help. My husband is extremely resistant so there is a bit of a push-pull going on between us regarding clearing out clutter. I have TONS of clothes, shoes, books, jewelry, movies, CDs, knickknacks, etc. I know that I could never be as minimalist as you are and I don't travel much so it isn't necessary, but I do want to really simplify. I don't want to be owned by things. Maybe I should try to sell as much stuff as possible. That would help me to pay off all of the credit cards too. Thanks again! :-)

[@christinaduncan8285]

I am very different from Connie but just made a folder for her videos because I find them important. This particular one is excellent and gets me looking at my own life with a "side eye." With Connie and The Minimalist guys and Marie Kondo, etc., it's clear that a transformation in our society is beginning. It's amazing and wonderful but a little confusing and scary, too. So, to help quiet myself I find I'm staying out of stores, doing yoga again with deep breathing, watching 90% less TV, listening to public radio, and reading. I'd love to know what Audible books Connie is reading!

[@elyunited]

Loved your video! It really inspired me to clean out my stuff and think twice about new things!🙏🏻

[@plainvoice4460]

Thank you so much for this video!!!! I feel WOKE!

[@jamesross1431]

Mmmm Only buy what you need Very simple Forget what you want

[@rs5570]

One thing I like with this lifestyle is how c-l-e-a-n it is. People seem to comment upon how sort of nice and fresh my place is. The more stuff that's around the more dirt and bacteria and opportunity for odor there can be. I also really dislike carpeting, to put it nicely. Very nice video. Tyvm

[@ConniBiesalski]

yes, I totally agree!!

[@teemakarov9375]

I think minimalism is spiritual. Letting go of things both material or behavioral you don’t need or that weigh you down is freedom. I am currently fighting the urge to buy a quad copter video camera. Once you have air, water, food, shelter and provide for family, I believe all that’s left is to serve others who are not so fortunate. Thoughts??? The massage gift sounds great. Wish I had a friend like you.

[@Mary-xo7go]

I told my daughter once that I didn't think we'd ever be truly happy till we had nothing but a backpack on our backs. I don't think we own things. I think things own us.

[@bananaborz1]

I tried so hard for about 2 years to live minimalist but I failed. I was very unhappy but I realised that minimalism isn't for everyone and I embraced my love for shoes, jewels, perfumes, hats, clothes, and skincare. I'm still conscious about it--I don't buy things for the sake of having them and never wearing them, but I don't limit or deny myself anything if I want it. I just make sure only to own things if I genuinely enjoy having them.

[@IreneTivz]

I like that phrase "just in case". It's a constant reminder for me💯

[@davidhammond8098]

I still love physical books. My friends Kendle account blew up and she lost everything.

[@kitphoenix9204]

David Hammond when my kindle died I got another one and Kindle/amazon restored all my book onto the new kindle

[@EmilymayVlogs]

What brands would you recommend for high quality clothing?

[@patriciamay5521]

Emily May Cox-Mundy check out the background of brands. Many garments are made in parts of the world where there is no concern for the environment. They use toxic materials and slave labour. Secondhand /vintage from charity shops - famous names, natural fabrics. High quality should mean expensive because the materials and labour are superior and long lasting. Buying cheap doesn’t last

[@CarlBergsdorf]

Inspiring stuff! I recently found out about minimalism and it really resonated with me since a lot of my mental weigh is focused around material wants so I realised that the best way probably to go to the root instead of buying stuff I dont need for short kicks of satisfaction and only get/keep stuff with intention :) It’s fun to see other people who are interested in this what they choose to keep and their take on this

[@Fabian7227]

I have a number of colognes cus I really like switching between them but I DONT NEED THEM. So I’m not gona waste money on them anymore

[@ConniBiesalski]

hell yeah!

[@garylee1488]

I’m sorta just beginning my minimalist journey. I truly enjoyed photography years ago, but my gear was stolen. I wanted a new camera, and even though I could have bought a “new model”, I opted for the same used model that I used before. Instead of buying a fast zoom lens, I opted for a 50mm. I brought back joy, but was able to resist the urge to buy the new shiny one...

[@gaillesarge9779]

One recent change of mine is actually to go to restaurants more! I am single and only eat so much, so probably I even save money - considering there is no waste. It simplifies my life a lot and frees up my time. If I keep this up, I won't need all the kitchen utensils, small appliances, cookwear, dishes, etc., and will be able to ditch a lot of crap! When I say "going to restaurants" I mean in a modest way - ie.street corner falafel stand. Bowl of soup, or one apple at the farmer's market.

[@daveywaves5325]

I own a desktop, three outfits, and a pair of shoes, and a toothbrush. I think I achieved minimal lifestyle without trying.

[@tconroymusic]

I love this video. I went to my closet, which doesn’t have much now, and divided it 1/3 to keep (2 pants, 2 shirts, maybe 2 ties, 1 jacket) and 2/3 to sell or give away.

[@karensinclair1954]

Yes, I am a minimalist still decluttering and learning tons! Loved your video. I have a 36-month buying moratorium. If I think I "need" something I put it on hold for several days. By that time I've forgotten about it. I also experience the item mysteriously manifesting for my use on many occasions. I am moving rapidly into "you will be provided for".

[@marylandsmann1175]

I stopped stocking up on food for the month. Most would go to waste or get outdated because I had no plan or specific menus. Now I buy only enough for a weeks worth of meals. I plan each menu to insure it doesn't go to waste. I liked your vidoe

[@christinaduncan8285]

While you're not "like" me (I have more hair, wear makeup, have tons of jewelry, etc.), it didn't take me long to absolutely love you and what you were saying! I resonated with every single point and know I will be mulling each over for a long time to come. I even saved your video. Thank you, Conni!

[@sunrae7680]

Nothing yet. Having hard time stopping. For me - I have to get a good running start. I'm using you and others for motivation.

[@betsyruef6018]

I have tried to incorporate minimalism into my life but when you have an office job, that's so hard. But you are inspiring me to rethink things.

[@slipagent6]

One challenge is living somewhere with season changes. So without wanting it you just have tons of extra clothes, shoes/boots, jackets/coats. Then I have clothes for work only that range from really warm weather to freezing winter weather. Its a whole other problem to deal with.

[@elizabethhamilton1166]

I buy souvenirs that are useful. Once I went to Charleston, SC and bought some cute kids drinking glasses for my kitchen and bath. They didn't say anything about Charleston but when I use them, I remember the friendly supermarket where I bought them and the residential neighborhood near the AirB&B where I stayed.

[@ceciliasoans8113]

Way to go my girl...I have been going this way for many years now..I feel so free and liberated..I stopped giving physical gifts too coz I realized people have more than they need

[@anneest]

Thanks for this video. I consider myself a minimalist, but still have books from before. I was good at ditching a lot of clothes and shoes when I moved 2 years ago. I have a minimalistic house, no unnecessary extra furniture and my ‘home decorations’ are very limited. I have an extra room that I decided to keep empty, and did not do the ‘guest room’ thing, which is at best used a few days per year... Imo also important to declutter is online subscriptions, the non free ones. I sat down one day last year, and went through a month on my bank account to find out and eliminate unnecessary subscriptions. I also ditched quite early my cable tv subscription. I kept my jazzradio which I love and listen to all the time when I study, and a Netflix, but stopped the netflix a few times temporarily. I must admit I kept my digital subscription to my local newspaper and nyt. I think paper newspapers is one of the first things I stopped, and that was several years ago! I guess I am a progressive minimalist, not yet perfect, but getting better. Cheers 🙂

[@rebeccabooth647]

So funny when I scrolled down to see merchandise ! LOL!!!

[@MeMommyEms]

I’ve been a minimalist for more that 2 years now and there are tons of things that I got rid of. And it’s the most liberating thing that ever happened to me.

[@mieczyslawapascoe7234]

This is the first video of yours I've ever watched. Loved it. Thanks.

[@lucillekenney8311]

I stopped buying boots. I did a KonMarie method of cleaning and realized I have quite the cowboy boot collection. If I liked it, I bought it with little thought of what I already have. Now I pay attention to what I have and what I can let go of. I have a lot of letting go to get done.

[@cvmitchell9368]

I 'm not a minimalist but I love the idea of multi-purposing the coconut oil.

[@rochelleestelles2866]

I been living minimalist seen birth not because of my choice but boz we live like that. I remember when I was kid we don't have electricity we use lamps, no furniture only dining table and chair my grandpa make.we don't have toilet we poo in backyard and put some soil after so it well decompose later. We live like this because of poverty and we live happy and content. My greed for change to experience having a thing or stuff that other have. when I go to City to work and buy something I don't have before.i feel happy now I want to declutter all of those stuff to go back to simple and minimalist living again.

[@rapunzeleh546]

when i decided i had had enough of the horrible people i had to deal with at work, wanted to retire early, i made a decision that made it possible - unless the item was used to generate food, power, or money, i didn't buy it. garden tools, fine. power tools, fine... painting supplies (to product art to sell at farmers markets), fine... but all the nickynacky crap i used to buy, literally a shopping cart full of stuff at Winners, all that went out of the window. and when you plan on generating your own electricity, that also makes you think about the electrical gadgets you purchase. however, there is no restraint when it's something for my pets.... they get anything they want... er... i want...

[@dainahakes5748]

Loved your video as I need to downsize and identify with several of your ideas!

[@HansYolo82]

I stopped buying liquid shampoo and instead use a bar of soap, I don't drink coffee or energydrinks anymore but more water and tea, when I want to buy new clothing something other must go away and what I think really helps is get rid of stuff that you don't use in a whole year and that hasn't a personal meaning to me. So if I don't need it when it is cold in the winter and either not when it's hot in the summer, why keep it. And what also is very helpful, if I see something that I want to buy, I have to wait and think about it for a week and if I still want it and have a use for it then I buy it, that saves a lot of money.

[@carmenhauge4384]

I’m curious, what do you do with your “important papers” ie: tax stuff, etc.?

[@papermason]

In my opinion, beyond the most basic necessities we do it for a feeling of power. We have, therefore we are. I do it too, but much much less. I'm using up many consumables presently and will take stock again.

[@faithrada]

These days.. the more non-essentials I dump... the better I feel. I did need to get a special jar openner as I injured my hand.. and a metal straw... but melon baller a d corn holdets... BE GONE!

[@NinaNour]

This means awakening in higher levels, mindfulness. It's not just about objects, but also you said so well- freedom! It's great video, thank you!! It's totally true. I really love massage 😊 I like to buy books and I write in notebooks still, and love them

[@ConniBiesalski]

There are many ways to apply minimalism to our lives, there are no real rights or wrong ways. In the end, it is a way of living and thinking.

[@lalaward8537]

I really enjoy your list of things that you've stopped buying. Except for the notebooks, more than 2 pairs of shoes and special occasion clothing, I think I've pretty much given up this stuff as well. It makes life easier, especially when you can't afford this stuff to begin with. : ) Keep up the great work on your channel.

[@pinwheelgrl9304]

It seems young people are becoming more mobile than ever before and that elders are also getting into the idea now that the children are all out of the nest. For those that can, I think it's absolutely fabulous to be so free! Right now I am tied to an oxygen machine and can barely get around; but I still want to get rid of physical things that just seem to 'weigh me down'. It seems the new theme everywhere! People are wanting to work through their issues and let go of unneeded memories, unneeded relationships, unneeded things. And people are finding new relationships - have you all noticed the new DNA discoveries where people are suddenly finding (after grown) they are adopted or their parent was adopted? And then they find new family (that is, if the new folks have worked through their issues also:)! What a great time to exist and see all these much needed things happening.

[@Tubes12AX7k]

One of the main things that people overspend on is houses. You really, really do not need all of the space that you think you do. Same with new cars. New appliances in the house will go in and out of style, too. These are significant expenses.

[@RG-hf4et]

Agree. Most of us aren't home most if the time, too. And how much actual entertaining do you actually do in your house? Houses are best for people with kids. But before and after that, stay small and save money on heating, maintenance, taxes, etc. I look back and should havd gone smaller years ago.

[@lisa9867]

I stopped buying fabric softner. I still buy clothing if I really like it. The problem is I don't see a lot that I really like. I have to wear a uniform to work everyday so I like having girly things to wear and use on my days off. I like having cute sandals to show off my pedicure. I live where we have all seasons so I have clothing for all seasons. I wear my clothes/shoes until they wear out. I probably have clothes/shoes that are older than you but if I like it and use it I keep it. When my clothes wear out they become rags to clean with, use when painting a room. I love dresses and skirts, especially if I go out with friends. I like to feel put together and feminine. I buy good panties and bras and I don't put them in the dryer. I love love love handbags. I've said I need handbags anonymous. But I use a bag for a month or two and then switch it out for another. I'm not a minimalist and probably will never be one but for some reason I love these type of videos. I find them soothing and sometimes I use them to help me drift off to sleep.

[@victoriavendiola5529]

Conni, what you’re saying is very idealistic for me at the present time. It’s my dream to do that, but maybe someday... working on it .looks easy for you because you’re single and young.

[@lachlanoneil8938]

I love fishing , spearfishing, playing guitar, doing weights, playing games , off roading. So I need quite alot of stuff but it's not endless like buying clothes.

[@AnneMB955]

Excellent! You sound free and happy. When traveling I go minimalist. Mix and match and less of everything. Easier to carry. Also the sweetest people can be met in laundromats.

[@lauraann7816]

For myself I have also stopped by shoes shoes shoes just because they were cute. I donated many pairs of shoes - that I literally never wore. I now have a pair of sneakers that I wear until they "die" I have a pair of black comfortable but still cute dressier shoes and a few pairs of slippers. I have a pair of water shoes for going to the splash park or pool because flip flops kill my feet. I love that I use what I have. For my friends that I know do not like stuff my gifts to them are edible. My best friend of 56 years hates chackies and clutter. So she gets a jar of homemade Christmas jelly (Amish) for her birthday a week later I but her bingo boards for that night. I love how much she appreciates it. TFS 🤗

[@deeb2021]

Its not good to wear same pair of shoes everyday.

[@jgtbym601]

Hi, I so agree with your list! I started my journey as a minimalist/essentialist almost two years ago when I moved to China. It hasn't been easy but perhaps easier than if I had not moved overseas. I did bring a lot of my stuff (just.in.case.) and I did find myself buying more stuff (90% tech gear) that I thought I needed. In hindsight, I didn't NEED them. I just wanted them. And so it is this new awareness that has helped me to gradually wean away from this die-hard "gear acquisition syndrome (gas)" - Ryan Nicodemus. I draw a line down that used scrap of paper and write the words "I WANT" as a heading on the left side; I then write "I NEED" on the opposite side. I remind myself to hold off on buying for five days. Each day (if) I feel like I'm inconvenienced by not having that item, I write a sentence in the "NEED" column explaining why. Yeah, I know - a whole sentence. What a bother! But that's the point. It has to be so worth it that I have to justify it in writing. It's like when I had to convince my dad to buy me an Apple II compatible back in the 80s. Yes, I'm old. It's worked so far, but now I'm struggling with the urge to buy the new iPad Pro...(deep sigh). There is one more minimalism genre I'd like to explore. And that is minimalism in relationships. I know. It is counter-intuitive as humans are social creatures; it goes against the whole concept of social networking. Like you and other KZbinrs, I am not encouraging simply a quantitative change (though a reduction will likely become a consequence in the process). I am reassessing my relationships and becoming mindful about the relationships I really want to maintain and nurture. In particular cases, it has been painful or very challenging. It is a kind of sacrifice that feels like I'm being amputated. But if that limb is dead and rotting anyway, I'd rather be free of it. Sorry for taking up so much space here. Best wishes! Looking forward to you next video:)

[@richwilson7507]

I was basically a minimalist when I was earning less until I got a high paying job that gives me the opportunity to buy more than 20pairs of shoes, variety of clothes,11pairsof pants and other useless stuff. All of this happened without knowing that I wasted my hard earned money for the things that I don't really need. I used to have only 2 pairs of shoes 2 pairs of pants a few clothes and I was able live my life. Now I realized that the useless things are only things that I want and I don't really need. The major effect is a decision fatigue. No, not anymore im going to declutter for good and use my hard earned money for better useful and memorable things.

[@johnnash90]

I like what she is saying, I tried it for 2 years and I can tell you, living in other people's homes, and digging your stuff out of a backpack or small suitcase, or have too little stuff is a pain in the ass. After that time I got my own place, I'm still a minimalist, but the goal is having balance.

[@mariyamniuma4597]

I stopped buying perfume, and other 'luxurious' toiletries and stuck to coconut oil as well. I have been wearing second hand clothes for a while, and own very few of them too. I stopped buying books too but bought one by Neil Gaiman recently (and questioned my choices afterwards). Love the idea of writing on the iPad. Notebooks is something I will stop buying next. I own one pair of Vans and would like to buy running shoes soon, and then a pair of flip-flops. After not buying jewellery for ages, I bought a few earrings haha. I used to have only two pairs which I got as gifts, and one favourite necklace from Morocco. Thanks Conni for this vid

[@mysecretsketchbook865]

I stopped buying books for over a year. Then last week I went back to the bootsale and I was very happy to see the same 3 books I thought of buying were still there. I have gave 40% of what we owned n it felt good. I just recently have brought black pair of trainers to match Every thing I wear. And 2 pairs of comfortable party shoes which were required, 1 winter coat 3 dresses for winter , 2 pairs of socks, 1 hat as I didn't have many winter items. And for the record I only have 1 wardrobe. Will be getting another one after home is extended and we move next door.