Practical Ways to Own Less Stuff | Minimalism Lifestyle

[@ConnieRiet]

Each of us will own things depending on our lifestyle, hobbies, and values. There is no "right" way to be a minimalist.

[@victoriajohnson3034]

I am struggling with this concept. I want minimalism because i love a clean organized almost empty home. The flip side is my lifestyle joys mean stuff. Canning, homesteading, growing/drying my own spices and teas. So much stuff required for this healthy lifestyle. I can't find balance!!!! Frustrated!!!

[@lilaeia]

@@victoriajohnson3034 Agreed!! The moment one has interests that require equipment… such as musical instruments, sports, sewing, calligraphy, crystals, pets, healing modalities… or in my case, all of the above!!… it becomes impossible to live with only a suitcase-full of stuff! I prefer the Konmari method of looking at things: keep what sparks joy. It’s not about how much or how little you own. It’s about everything you own bringing joy into your life. If your hobbies and interests add value to your life, why would you throw away your instruments/sporting equipment? If spirituality brings peace, why throw away your candles and incense just to have less stuff? If animals add love to your life, despite all their paraphernalia, why deprive yourself simply to have less? Some things are more important than living with as little as possible. It’s about *values*… finding the balance between what is just the right amount of stuff to not cause stress and overwhelm… whilst also accommodating your loves and values in life. 😇💝🙏

[@victoriajohnson3034]

@@lilaeia it's a fine line of juggling.

[@lilaeia]

@@victoriajohnson3034 Indeed it is!! 😂💖

[@hantor4]

You are so right on .but the 🐀 rat race making us running from safety !!#

[@carnivorecaveman]

You have beautiful eyes... I am an 58-year-old man. I switched to minimalism about 1 year ago. Now I'm living on 14 squaremeters, including the bathroom... Here, in this small area, there are quite enough space for 3 large freezers and a large refrigerator, and even a treadmill! I need the freezers because I follow the raw carnivore diet, i.e. I only eat raw meat and raw offal, for example raw liver (the natural multivitamin!), raw kidney, raw brain, etc. This diet was very good for my health, for example, I lost weight, and my deep depression also disappeared. And meat is cheap if I buy a whole animal and then I cut it up, then I eat it nose-to-tail, so I need 3 freezers for that. But I still feel like I have too much stuff. I try to fit everything I own into a single, albeit large, military backpack, and maybe even a handbag. Because I have set my intention that in 10 years at the latest (but maybe sooner) I will go to the wilderness and live there close to nature, without electricity and stress... I have been diligently learning all kinds of bushcraft tricks ever since this idea came to my mind. For example, making stone and bone tools, preserving meat by drying, etc. I have also already bought a top quality 4 season tent, it is in my backpack. I don't need much luxury, for example, I've been sleeping on a hard surface for decades anyway. I don't even need a musical instrument, I can whistle melodies beautifully, and I've also learned Mongolian throat singing, which also suits the primitive lifestyle I want to follow. Probably you can understand now, why it is my nickname here that "Carnivore Caveman". If everything fits in the backpack, then wherever I go, everything will always be with me, which means I WILL BE FREE! And you don't need a lot of stuff. The more someone knows, the less he has to carry, i.e. the more he has in his head, the less he has to push on his shoulders... Since this goal of my life was formed, I AM HAPPY. And since then, every day I try to learn something new that brings me closer to my goal. My motto: You'll never live this day again, so make it count!

[@patriciarussell7487]

It's so funny .Once you get rid of clutter, you want to do more!!!😁

[@adwaitvedant3297]

This is the fundamental teaching of the indic philosophies like Vedanta and Buddha. Keep less possession and less attachment to material objects. As material possession also brings sorrow , anxiety with it.This is very much spiritual.

[@christynr1388]

I love stuff! I only keep the things I love the most😊keep what you love! Don’t throw everything away.

[@lissetsanchez5316]

I loved when you said "if you have a hard time giving up something, then don't". Really makes me like your channel even more. Minimalism looks different for everyone. Thank you for sharing practical ways to own less....

[@ConnieRiet]

I agree! Minimalism looks different for everyone. Always listen to your heart, it will never lead you astray. Happiness & peace

[@franklinstephen3268]

Hi how are you doing?

[@tamiwilliams5903]

I find taking care of the things I already have, even my home, car, etc. will keep me busy enough to help me curb my shopping addiction and it makes me much happier and more satisfied!

[@nareshdev4119]

The priciple of life is to distinguish between needs and greed -- this keeps the life at minimalist mode.

[@tristar2835]

i agree with you that life is not about owning so many things rather enjoying experiences and relationships that make your life more meaningful and joyful

[@heatherb2395]

You always look so fresh and moisturized. Do you have a video on what you use for health and beauty products?

[@markrunyon5524]

I love the way you think & the things that you say.All we really need is the memory(which we already have),not all the actual items hanging around and adding subconscious stress to our lives.Many years ago,a friend who was building a new,bigger house,told me her husband said to her."We"re building a much bigger house,so we can buy & store more junk,that we don"t need or even want.I"ve never forgotten that comment.

[@dugchris2009]

Just found your channel. Thanks for all the great information. I haven't eaten meat for15 years, have always liked to have less things also. Going through a rough period in my life, my husband went unexpectedly to be with the Lord in June. Lots of changes in my life, trying to stay positive. Going to try your going method of going to sleep easier, which I really need now.

[@claudiabecker4673]

Usually, shopping wears me out:). I prefer buying items and clothes I need online, and often I buy second-hand. It's so relaxing to own fewer things.....

[@gailhorrocks]

My possessions are important to me and the selections are my definition of minimal

[@marias8007]

I have decluttered my wardrobe, got rid of so much, and I really appreciate what I've kept and actually wear my things

[@bgbell3049]

A lot like Marie Kondo’s spark joy expanded a little.

[@lindag5076]

I graduated in 1969. I bit the bullet and tossed two of my 4 high school year books ! I couldn’t remember most of the people that signed it .lol I took out a couple pages and kept. I will let my 11th grade book go also, keeping a page or two from it. At 70 years old we look nothing like we did back in those days..I will keep my senior year book.

[@anitachristian136]

We are moving house and I have packed a few boxes with stuff that I am reconsidering... do I need these little things or not? the answer is clear. NO you don't need them. Let go!

[@juliafisher5844]

Be odd if you did look the same lol

[@Pubslife]

I did the exact same thing. No regrets 2 years later.

[@sherriepiechowski4556]

I’m trying to weed out all the things I once valued in my life but it is overwhelming at times. Your videos help me put things in perspective and keep me motivated to keep going. So Thank you and have a peaceful week!

[@ConnieRiet]

You got this!

[@sherriepiechowski4556]

@@ConnieRiet Thank you. I just ❤️all the videos and ideas you share!

[@tanyarandall1057]

Ditto

[@lindaguida4074]

I used to buy so much stuff, I’ve downsized, sold some & donated too! Less to clean, looks so much nicer!

[@gypsybelle4757]

I can totally relate to feeling anxiety and agitation when my space feels overstuffed and overwhelmed. I am in the process of continuing to downsize until i find a peaceful equilibrium. The sentimental items are indeed the hardest. Thank you for your words of wisdom and encouragement!

[@winromeo]

My urge to have a simpler life with THINGS lead me to your videos while I’m having a quiet lunch break. Us kids are in the midst of relocating mom back to her homeland after 40 years abroad, needless to say it’s such a big move mentally and physically. Mom loved to shop and I used to be like that too, now my sister and I just can’ wait to simplify our homes once mom is settled. I will have to deal with all the things that she leaves behind, plus my own messy home. I almost can’t wait to take on the challenge when I come back in October, it will definitely be a lot of gratitude and letting go. Thank you for your channel.

[@tulsabrit671]

I came here from England 32 years ago with my 10 and 8 year old, there’s now 4 grandkids. I think about moving back as I miss it so much but I feel guilty I wouldn’t be here when they need me to help. Has your mom had to deal with similar feelings?

[@nanad1408]

Beautiful woman, you have a nice calming happy energy. Wish you all the best

[@robynchote3208]

Love this video 🙋‍♀️Texas

[@kittyweisman6655]

I love your messages Connie! I just did a big clearing of extra stuff, donating dozens of boxes of things I wasn’t using. I feel lighter and freer. I still have more pruning to do, but the things I’ve held onto are beautiful, useful, and meaningful to me.

[@joanncoopertroupe3506]

Family things passed down. the best!!

[@kennethbailey9853]

So Gracious

[@lauribailey5756]

Connie, I am reaping the benefits of the work you do. Chia pudding does indeed make a healthy and delicious breakfast, especially with added walnuts, raisins, and cinnamon. And thanks to you, I am now making my own deodorant, body butter, and facial moisturizer. I feel more creative and more well. Thank you so much.

[@ConnieRiet]

Hi Lauri! That's wonderful that you are making your own body products! I hope that you are enjoying them.

[@terribrannan1427]

I am new to the idea of minimalism. I have been working on a new mindset and am beginning to declutter. I am finding myself becoming more content as I stop and give thanks for what I have. I have less financial stress because I buy less and I am finding simplicity reduces my stress.

[@petmomful2260]

I also am experiencing a new mindset. I pull things out of the cabinet and ask myself, "why in the heck does this seem important to me? I never use it! What emotions have I attached to this thing that makes it hard for me to give it up? Is it to impress others? How silly is that. Might I need it someday?" It is quite a struggle sometimes.

[@janjentz1053]

Yes... shopping as a form of entertainment. A hard habit to break in some cases; not a good idea; better to go see a movie, take a walk or hike or some sport you enjoy. I am older and have done the Swedish Death Clean, letting go of yearbooks, a dry corsage; concert tickets; items were only special to me in the past. Those type things mean nothing to our children and Grandchildren and don't want them to have to deal with all of the stuff I saved someday.

[@503ashkatchem4]

Thank you for all your videos

[@esmeraldaramirez2104]

I love ❤your videos but would love a skin care video Your skin looks amazing! 🤗

[@margarettownsley9500]

Hey Connie I’m watching your playlist today as I declutter more stuff in my kitchen I’ve been binning loads all summer and I feel like I’m just at someone else’s beginning at decluttering it’s hard work but I’m hopeful as every day stuff gets put to the bin I can’t wait until I feel a sense of freedom thank you so much for your videos

[@paulaboynton8299]

I grew up in a home where shopping was the norm. I liked it when I was younger, but I’ve grown to dislike shopping. It involves three things I don’t like. Spending money, dealing with people and time away from my home. I purposely bought a very small home, and I will not clutter it up. I didn’t realize I was becoming a minimalist.

[@ConnieRiet]

Thank you so much for sharing with us! I'm also an accidental minimalist. Sometimes the best things evolve naturally. Happiness & peace

[@SassySue67]

I used to use shopping as entertainment as well. Since starting on my decluttering journey I no longer do that. With Covid keeping me at home it was easy to break the shopping habit, now I shop only when I really need something and like you if I see something I want I wait at least 48 hours, mostly I forget all about the item. I also have a rule of one item in means two go out. You are such a calming sprit for me.

[@rosalindluper2801]

Yes, I can see i have been using shopping as entertainment, a way of curbing boredom (instead of going to the gym and doing some serious exercise!). I now put 'wanted' items into 'save' lists and, as you say, usually forget I've even done it. it certainly pays to wait.

[@myaccount9498]

Your home looks so tidy + is a great motivation for those of us struggling to declutter our whole homes 🏡

[@kscott7657]

Connie, you are just a breath of fresh air and so soothing to watch how you declutter and organize your home. I love how you prioritize what brings value to your life, making enough room for what is important. I really appreciate how you simplify your life because it takes the pressure off of clinging to items we no longer use. You are a great example in proving we don't need a lot of items, but only the things we need so one can have a better quality and stress-free life. Thank you so much for blessing us with your insight and perspective. P.S. I love your hair and simple style. You are beautiful dear one!

[@marciafonseca6358]

Connie , your videos are amazing. Thank you for share them with us. Kisses from Portugal.

[@paulastamper6225]

You are strong! In your purchases and life. I may be there one day. I truly am blessed with all I have. Thank you

[@MissBeeMarie]

Your voice is so soothing. Thank you so much for your content.

[@nancyesposito1020]

That's what I struggle with. I don't know if it's ok to keep sentimental and family things in a box and look at them every once in awhile to appreciate them? Because if they're out of the box and they're all over the place it's clutter! It's so hard to part with family things and things from earlier in life! Thank you for your videos you're very helpful and decluttering and trying to become a minimalist!

[@gailtester8749]

Connie you are glowing and keep looking younger and younger! You are so inspiring! I watch a couple of YT Channels that talk about clothes and looking chic and current. They are stumbling blocks for me and when I buy clothing now it's usually because they tell me I need a great blazer for fall...I'll buy it on Poshmark...but then I can't return it when I come to my senses. I guess I should unsubscribe from those channels. Or at least leave things in my cart for a day or two before completing my purchase. That has been helpful in the past. This has been a good reminder for me. Thank you!

[@marathonmom7963]

Thanks for you videos

[@Pausereflectandbreathe]

Good point. Thank you! ❤️🙏

[@cariefrost2930]

You look fabulous. Love your haircut

[@ConnieRiet]

Thanks!

[@lilyghassemzadeh]

I love your rings 😊♥️🌹

[@Tribunal1023]

I think you are such a beautiful soul. I think your attractiveness is your intentionality on living your life, your way. Way to go girlfriend. Thank you for inspiring us all

[@ConnieRiet]

Oh! Thank you so much, Lucy, for your kind words!

[@MGSpecial2023]

Honor where you at today. WORD

[@youtimeful]

I have gotten in the shopping habit. I rarely buy and just love to look at all the pretty things but it still wastes more time than I like. Need to find alternatives!!

[@sudhapk1280]

Your vedios changed my out look on life thank u love from india

[@radhasrinivasan203]

Your questions on keepsakes resonate with me so much!!!!

[@joanncoopertroupe3506]

I am learning how to go through my stuff at age 64.

[@juliafisher5844]

Ok

[@armel369]

Like you, clutter drains my energy, and I love clear clean spaces. But what do you do when your family love to hoard their possessions and gadgets etc ?

[@nikolinarusev4279]

I love this video, everything about it. And your voice is soothing. Thank you for sharing!

[@tiashadae1143]

Great video, thank you!

[@robs9684]

Your voice is so calming 💞

[@ConnieRiet]

Thank you!

[@revighetto]

I loved your skirt!

[@tupperwaredemos]

I just found your channel yesterday and have been binge watching. Your videos really calm me and inspire me. I love the scenery that you show as well. It really makes me want to get outdoors more! 🥰

[@ConnieRiet]

Welcome!

[@cassieb1860]

My baby blanket has always been kept with my extra sheets. My mother made it when she was pregnant with me. It is handmade, quilted and embroidered. Since I don’t have children of my own, I had her stitch her name, my name and my nephews new born daughters name on the back. He and his wife were very moved by the gift. I am pleased it is being used again and loved for another generation.

[@ConnieRiet]

What a beautiful sentimental gift you have shared.

[@maribethnewell6743]

Very inspiring videos Connie. I also had that same Barbie by the way ☺️

[@franklinstephen3268]

Hello how are you doing?

[@junehulton9776]

Everything in it's place...a place for everything...that was my Mum's Moto...and if not used within six months..it needs to Go and I have started doing this more often ...I have placed things in a box in the shed...and then not even noticed that I do t have it...so then take it to the charity shops...and mindful...that I don't need to fill it with something else... Thank you for sharing..

[@amoto1501]

Great video! Again❤️ Thanks for your insightful and meaningful content!

[@karenbochinski]

Your videos are so calming and inspiring.

[@gingermonroe4153]

You are incredibly beautiful inside n out. I was very upset about family n my own personal health issues. N watching n listening t your insi

[@tammyjones6779]

I'm trying to spend less money. But it's hard same time. But I know it's worth. I do love thifty my wearable and housewares as well. Love video and everything u do. Keep up great work.

[@rockyrodriguez3984]

Thank you so much for sharing. I absolutely love your videos!

[@healingheartcollective]

I enjoyed this video a lot. Thanks for the great tips! Definitely time to evaluate my space.

[@joanncoopertroupe3506]

I love your hair colr. I have for 7 years gave up coloring..i get full of Anxiety from to many possessions.

[@dannmurray1199]

I've recently really focused on downsizing and minimalizing...for myself it's really no problem. I don't want to be overwhelmed anymore. Trying to convince my boyfriend is another story. I will say that it is harder for me to part with things that loved ones gave me or once owned....so, I have started clearing out things that I have purchased or no longer serve a useful purpose. One tip I use...donate something everytime I buy something. Another trick I've learned is to categorize....one day sort through household items, another day sort thru clothes and so on...it helps you to get an idea of what you need and what you don't need so there's less guilt if you splurge.

[@ConnieRiet]

I love your tips! Thanks for sharing

[@oumwalid1657]

Thank you so much for your inspiring videos.i'm at the beginning of my minimalism journey and thanks to you i-m doing great.my house is cleaner clutter free,i'm saving money and i enjoy more my hobbies.it turns out that reading a book is much more entertaining than shopping.i'm much happier,i feel that even my heart and mind are being decluttered.thanks again

[@ConnieRiet]

Oh my gosh! That is amazing! It does feel so liberating to have less stuff and more time. happiness and peace

[@hisbeautifultruth5931]

Just watched you for the first time and have subbed😊

[@mandy6062]

Your hair is my goal! It’s absolutely gorgeous! I’m 35 and getting quite grey but I’m 100% ok with it. I am binge watching your videos and really enjoying them! Thank you!

[@ConnieRiet]

Thank you so much!!

[@juliegolub2602]

Connie you have wonderful ideas to help everyone. Thank you!

[@alisonholmes182]

Thank you for this video. It has really resonated with me x

[@julianneponiros4802]

Can you please do a skincare video? Thanks!

[@lauraanderson8244]

I have a hard time letting go of items that are meaningful to me but my children have no interest in. I finally let go of my dishes and then bought one very beautiful plate to eat off when I am by myself. It is such a wonderful feeling to enjoy eating on my plate and my children won't have a bunch of dishes to get rid of when I go.

[@ConnieRiet]

It's thoughtful of you to think of your children. One plate? What a great idea!

[@emanalhattab2206]

I love what i own

[@suzannelopez2329]

You always look so lovely in skirts. Would you be able to provide a link for your red skirt? I love how your house looks decorative without any visual clutter. You seem to use items that are functional such as your mirror and wooden entry rack rather than lots of wall paintings/ pictures. I’d love to see a video describing your style/method for your home decorating. Your homes always look so peaceful and pretty. Thank you for your enjoyable videos.

[@judyshather9926]

Decluttering your house sure kills any urge to bring in more stuff without being really sure it's something really necessary or loved!

[@andeebee2530]

I rarely go shopping now, unless it is for a much needed item. I noticed that things I bought while with my friends ( impulse buys) usually always got decluttered a short time later. Connie, I love you and your beautiful videos - you have such a beautiful soul 🥰

[@dianaschanning2944]

I just recently found you and enjoy your content. I take a non-attachment approach to the things I have and have definitely become more mindful and intentional when I purchase things. I love to declutter so I will go through things periodically and donate what no longer serves me.

[@ConnieRiet]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@Barbara-lw5ou]

A very enjoyable, enlightening video Connie - I have taken a lot from it. You are teaching me how I can be more mindful in my life and I thank you for this😊❤️

[@sandramooso9400]

Thank you! This was so good!

[@ConnieRiet]

Thanks, Sandra!

[@lisapriester5170]

Always look forward to your videos ….insightful and inspiring

[@cherisemattera1103]

Where did you get your laptop cover/sticker

[@renataazeredo9834]

Your videos makes me feel so calm and happy. I am a minimalist person and love charring these experiences. Thank you very much. Excuse my English, I'm brazilian.

[@ConnieRiet]

Your English is perfect! Thank you!

[@JenniferVanMatreMissouriUSA]

I’ve become “not a shopper” and pretty minimal. My issues are trying to weed thru my past and declutter my basement filled with my old stuff, my daughters old toys, and family things I hauled home after parents and grandparents died or went to nursing homes. I also struggle with my 17 yo daughter that’s packed her room to the limit of collectibles, makeup, skincare, etc.

[@ConnieRiet]

You are not alone. I too struggle with my 17-year-old daughter's room. She works and has her own money to spend on... everything. I try to remind myself that she is her own person. She is not me. And then I close her bedroom door. 😉 Sending you happiness & peace my friend.

[@marabolin3038]

I was just yesterday thinking about those things I have moved so many times that have stayed in boxes, like those yearbooks? Why do I keep hauling them around? Trinkets that I don’t even notice anymore like certain Knick knacks? So very much jewelry! ( used to work in an office for years, so I have tons of jewelry! Dress clothes also. My lifestyle is jeans, simple dresses ( church). What is this uncomfortable fear of getting rid of these things that are in my closets yet never worn, nor seen?

[@ConnieRiet]

Hi Mara! It's funny how we hang onto things, isn't it? Sounds like you are leaning toward change. Listen to your heart and instincts. They are always right. Happiness & Peace

[@jayathome2898]

You probably get asked this a lot, but could you do a house tour? In the same way that “seeing” what you eat, helps to learn about portions etc, I would find it helpful, with minimalism to “see how you live” thanks for considering it!

[@lizzyagatha]

Baby stuff and 'high school' stuff I would never keep, It's strange how different it is for people.

[@joycegonzales4994]

You have such a pretty youthful face, and a very calming voice.

[@ConnieRiet]

Thanks so much!

[@brendasparks6234]

Love this, just found you. I loved when you said if it brings you pleasure and it’s hard to get rid of then keep it. That being said I’m hoping I have a different perspective going forward. Thank you for sharing

[@ConnieRiet]

Welcome!! I'm so glad you are part of our mindful community.

[@buckeyefangirl1976]

I really need to get rid of stuff but I'm overwhelmed by it which ramps up my anxiety and depression. One of my biggest problems is that I can't get rid of sentimental things belonging to my grown children and late husband.

[@tbdog99]

I'm 62, and I swear...I could get rid of 80% of the stuff around here and would not miss any of it! My goal for 2023 is to sell stuff. There is a lot to be said for contentment.

[@ConnieRiet]

sounds like a wonderful goal. You got this!

[@gingermonroe4153]

Insightful wisdom, helped me calm down n look at things completely differently You would make an excellent counselor. Your presentation n soft tone n soothing music did wonders f me. You have a real 🎁💝 Thank you

[@ConnieRiet]

Wow, thank you so much for your kind words! Sending you happiness & peace

[@cherisemattera1103]

First where can I find your Chi pudding recipe? Thank you for your videos. I am trying to let go of all I no longer value while find purpose and meaning in a slower simpler life. Your tone, vibe and authenticity definately resonate and feel like mentoring!!

[@joelriet8280]

m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/nZq2kqJ3qLZ2nZo😊

[@zinarisley5228]

Do you have a video on how you cut your hair?

[@crankikay]

Hi Connie, your videos and you are so real and beautiful! Do you still use the same camera Sony Z-1 or something else to make videos that good! Thank you

[@gloriayouchisonbrown7734]

Things that you own actually own you,because of the care they need

[@ConnieRiet]

beautifully said! Thank you

[@cailawilliams1434]

Lmao I was watching your video and my favorite - and only - Jeffree Star Cosmetics mirror fell and the glass in it completely splintered Guess it was her time to go 😂 served me well especially since I’m nearsighted and I appreciate a handheld mirror to do my skincare and makeup in Now I get to see if I really value having a handheld mirror or can manage with one of my palette mirrors despite them being more delicate

[@ConnieRiet]

Sorry about your mirror. I like your perspective on waiting and seeing if you can do without.

[@celsasantiago6052]

♥️💐🙏

[@nancyloshe9027]

You hit the nail on the head when you said you shopped for something to do, for entertainment….that is so me right now. How did you break yourself?