How I learned to want LESS | Minimalism & Saving Money

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There's an important part of minimalism, that maybe we don't talk about enough: mindset. After about 10 years of minimalist living, the 'not buying things I don't need' part of it has become easier and easier for me. And I think it's because I've learned to want less. So in today's video, I share with you how this happened, and how to live with less consumption (and save money in the process).
Lots of love,
🌼 Vera
VIDEO CHAPTERS
Minimalism and wanting less 0:00
Decrease exposure 1:53
Declutter 3:26
Delayed gratification 6:00
Shopping for image 7:51
Things that are not things 9:07
Sponsored break 9:58
The beauty of 'less' 11:18
The 'why' of more 12:30
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[@SimpleHappyZen]

A big thanks to Skillshare for sponsoring today's video! For a limited time (now through April 30, 2023), Skillshare is offering 40% off your first year of membership - one of their best offers out there! Click here to get your membership with 40% off: skl.sh/verasimplehappyzen40123 (This link is an affiliate link. This means that I earn a small commission when you use it to sign up.)

[@oeyyenni284]

😊😊

[@becky5440]

"I can admire without having to aquire" is a phrase I've heard around the minimalist community. I remind myself of this phrase when I'm in a store and come across an impulse buy or when I see something on social media that an influencer has that suddenly I feel like I need too. Sometimes it helps to reign me in, sometimes it doesn't, lol. Thanks for this video Vera!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah yes, I love that!!! I do that all the time :) Thanks for sharing Becky! Have a great day

[@haleyh9875]

SAME this is one of my absolute favorite minimalism mottos : D

[@rebeccabaron1348]

Me too!

[@geoffphillips5872]

I have observed for over 55 years - 18 years as a realtor & multiple house owner for 43 years to 2013, that people appear happier & more content living in a smaller than average Australian house on a smaller plot of land. This phenomenon applies whether as an owner or renter. A smaller mortgage, smaller rent, lower maintenance & council costs, lower heating/cooling costs, lower yard maintenance, more money for family schooling, holidays, stocks etc. Security is improved of course. I had a big house with the Pacific ocean as my neighbour at 46 years, but that did not increase my happiness, but rather lowered it over years somehow. I’m mid 70s now & not having any mortgages is a liberating relief. I sleep much more soundly with a reliable car of 12 years old. What was financially important at 45 years seems such folly today. Life is better.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Very interesting, thanks for sharing your thoughts Geoff! I indeed also think it's better to live below your means (if and when possible) for many different reasons, and I will always try to do so myself. Have a great day!

[@geoffphillips5872]

@@SimpleHappyZen Thank you for your nice words.

[@micajahsmom]

My 17 year old microwave broke yesterday. I immediately got online and ordered a new one. About a half hour later I cancelled the order. I don't know if I really need a new one right now. I was so proud of myself for doing this.

[@jacquelinetaylor3595]

I have lived a perfectly normal life with a family for 25 years without a microwave! There’s just something not right about those things. Good job holding off until the right moment!

[@marymorenomariposa]

yeah i’m not living without that

[@eugeniajones1895]

When I shop I put things in two categories needs and wants. I have a budget and I do my best to stay within my budget. And there are times I see something that I need and it's not on the list when I see these things there are times that I debate if I should get it. I buy things that I see it because if I don't get the I would see it again when I go back. I make a list of what I need before I go to the store. I still have a shopping list and I write it down and I wait. I'm not a martialliast person. I buy what I need the necessaries come first then I buy. I love ❤ less is better. If I really need or want something I know how to wait. I love sales and clearances. I wait until the price goes down and I comparison shop. I learned that from my mom.

[@maryloubrunner7584]

P to​@@eugeniajones1895

[@juliab628]

As my faith has increased, my wants have less of a pull. It's easy to fill that desire for physical things when my heart forgets it's already filled with Jesus. Temptations are real for sure. Much joy to you!!

[@letsmakeamesstoday]

I think its easier to be a minimalist as we age, for me anyway. I just don’t want any more stuff for so many reasons! Xo

[@barefootvibes8896]

One thing that I told my wife was that if she finds something she really wants in the store, pick it up and carry it around the store with you while you finish shopping. During this process you think about whether or not you really want/need it. More often than not, she puts the item back. Additionally, when on vacation I tell my family to look for things they think they would really want, remember where it's at, and leave the store/shop without buying it. If they decide they really want it after a few more days of vacation, we'll go back for it. This has lessoned the financial burden of vacations as most of the things they think they want is just an impulse buy. Disclaimer: We have lost out on a few things that we truly wanted, but we don't accrue the chaff. I'm a minimalist, and my wife is not. It can be challenging at times, but I think I have influenced her to be less materialistic, and she has influenced me to appreciate the little things more. In a way, I'd say we balance each other nicely.

[@namaste2]

I agree with everything you told. In the past I bought plenty of books for a lot of money, but in this year I enrolled in the library, and donated some books for them too. In my 20s I was a shopping queen but now I own just about 50 items in my gardrobe. I sold them or just gave them for poorest people here in my town. And I quit from social media of course.😃 So much happier now.🥰

[@lynby2108]

You explained the real beauty of minimalism perfectly.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yay, thanks Lynby! 🤗✨🌺

[@christined2495]

No ONE explains minimalism as you do Vera…. Your so right not buying things has gotten so easy, I also just don’t want alot of stuff, and I practice always one in and one out xo Less Is Best ❤

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thanks Christine! 💕🤗 Hope you're doing well. Take care and have a lovely weekend!

[@chrisl418]

I don't go to stores and 'just browse' because I used to leave wanting things and eventually buying something unrelated I saw in the store (it was a subconscious influence). Now I don't shop unless I absolutely have nothing already that can be used in place of the thing I need.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

It really does help doesn't it :) Thanks for sharing Chris, have a great day!

[@dominikakowalczyk4433]

I have practiced minimalism for 5 years. To want less and to need less has been a process to me. It has changed my life completely 😃

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Wow amazing! Have a wonderful rest of your weekend 🥰🌼

[@dominikakowalczyk4433]

@@SimpleHappyZen thank you. The same to you. I want to say, you do a great jobb with your channel. I hope a lot of us is going to " feel" benefits of living minimalistic life. Keep going the goodness of being more with having less. Greetings from Norway ✨

[@pinkroses135]

I've found that 'things that are not things' bit to be true. Once you find peace and tranquility in other things like faith or nature or your neat space the dopamine hits acquiring things just don't feel the same.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Sounds like you've found value in other things, that's wonderful :)

[@pinkroses135]

Yes! A value shift from retail therapy.

[@georgeandrews2839]

I use a variant of the 30-day list. If I want something that isn't an absolute survival purchase, it goes on my 30-day list. If it is above $50 it goes into my 60-day list and above $100 goes into the 90-day list. You'd be surprised at how many things gets dropped off the list. In addition it gives you time to figure a way to do it so you don't need the item or find something cheaper or free to take care of it. When shopping I only buy what's on my list. If I see something else I like, it gets added to the next trip's list ( most of these get dropped by the time I make the new list as well).

[@Shria9]

I wanted fewer trinket boxes, but I just can't let them go. Instead, I want them to be in fewer places. I love them, and they are beautiful, so I'm going to create a nice display area for them. I only have five of them, so they will look nice on the mantle of my fireplace. I also made a deal with myself that I won't get any more of them because no more than five will fit comfortably on the mantle.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing Carol! The 'space limitation' is actually a great trick I also often use. Like "I won't get more jewelry than that fits in a small jewelry box." Things like that :)

[@williamclark1244]

I noticed that when I decluttered, unliked and deleted all of my interests on FB I stopped seeing so many ads. I even unsubscribed from most business emails and notifications because some will bombard you with emails up to three times a day. If you do put something in the cart they will hound you trying to force you to purchase it. You get constant reminders: almost gone, you left this in your cart, the sale is almost over. Etsy even tried this method of manipulation with your digital art file - Others also have this in their cart. I found myself thinking, "Really? Are you going to run out of a digital art file if I don't buy this right now?" LOL Also, I shop from a wishlist. Some of the items have been on it for a few years. I really try to wait and get them when I actually need them and to make certain that I will get use out of it.

[@jajajajaja357]

I never really enjoyed clothes shopping since my preference has always been a simple timeless clean basic style that never changes. But I still had too many clothes in my closet that I did not wear. I started to narrow in even more on a simple clean look choosing the 2 colours that suit me best, combined with black blue and white. Then I threw away the clothes that I had not been wearing for years and added a few basics in the right colours. Now my closet is half of it originally already humble dimensions. When I open it I see all the coordinated colours. There is all I need to be presentable in the office (without that obligation I would own soooo much less) and there is nothing that I do not use. Now I NEVER go clothes shopping. I am set for a good number of years .....and that really makes me feel happy, relaxed and rich. :-)

[@antiquesrestoration3874]

Like you, I have really appreciated living with less "stuff." It has changed my life for the better significantly. I find that I don't want for things and have saved a lot of money. I still do go out shopping, but I have to really justify to myself anything I'm buying. When I shop with that mindset, I don't spend frivolously and what I do end up buying is very rarely a mistake. My home is so much easier to manage with less "stuff."

[@Darkangel75354]

Your name means 'true' in my language. And it really does! It is beautiful to follow your videos, simple and kind. I especially liked this one, thank you. The only thing about you that makes me anxious is knowing that you are talking with a cup of tea in your hand and hoping for you that it doesn't spill!!! We love you!

[@alexandraalmeida3661]

I totally agree with what you said about avoiding seeing what we don’t need! I have a thing for rings and bracelets, but, of course, I only have two hands and two arms 😂and I don’t need hundreds of them! So a few years ago, I decided to keep the ones that I REALLY liked and wore and sell the ones that I only wore once a year! Then I invested the money in an iPad and stopped looking at jewelry shops! Why am I going to look at bracelets if I don’t need more? I believe that many times, people buy things because they feel an inner void, a low self esteem or a deep sadness about their lives. Unfortunately I knew two people really close to me that were like that. One had to have a huge house (it looked like a mansion) to fulfill a deep frustration. She ended up having to sell the house, because she couldn’t pay the mortgage... The other used to buy clothes for a kind of need for affection and then keep them in the wardrobe... Life isn’t easy sometimes... 💙💚🧡💜❤️🖤💛💗♥️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Alexandra! I think you might be right about how people sometimes buy things to fill an inner void, or to have 'something to do' to not think about other things. Especially with big purchases like a huge house, that can be such a waste... Definitely, life isn't easy sometimes. All in all, I think most of life is as easy or hard as we think it is (meaning, we shape our own reality by our own mentality and how we choose to look at things).

[@alexandraalmeida3661]

@@SimpleHappyZen I totally agree ❤️❤️❤️

[@shehnazahmad5213]

Hi Vera, I missed watch your video. I was on a cruise had such a lovely time. I got a special buy one get one free. I took my old parents Dad 82 and Mom 81 married 62 years never been on cruise they shame loved it so much they cried of happinness when we got home and told me and my husband thank you. Im catching watching your video now back home. You are correct. There was a channel that I used to watch about level up. She will talk about manners, ethics, clothes. I stopped watching. Bcs, I started to buy what was no must for me. Since, I stopped I no longer have the urge and I have a goal to save and travel. I tell myself the more clothes the less il travel😃

[@Goodness125]

You are a wise young woman. I’m an older woman and if I had this mindset early on my life would have much much more pleasant! Thank you for sharing this. Anyone reading this should take notes and follow this. Even the shower suggestion. When you get old your skin can’t take it but DO hit those important things at the sink for sure. 😊

[@user-bm5ci6fi9z]

We used to live not wealthy, when I was a child. But with time my sister and I started to get so different! She likes many clothes, figurines, furniture, cookware exc. I by contrast like spacious rooms and less clothes, furniture and other stuff...😄

[@ronda176]

Shopping became much less enjoyable when I really thought about how much greedy companies are getting rich off of us buying their crap that’s supposed to make us happier/prettier/younger etc.

[@yenquest]

I remember being young, I wanted video games for the pretty pictures and stories they share. It got my mind thinking something different from the automaty of school/work. Now older, I've cleared out some things that were nothing more than time wasters (or an excuse for procrastination), and now I have free time to learn practical things befitting my current lifestyle.

[@caitlyn.crandall]

Just did a little “yay” when I saw a new vid from you! My Saturday morning lazy coffee time can commence! Thank you! 💞🤗

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw yay, so happy to hear that!!! Hope you'll enjoy your lovely coffee moment 🌹🤗❤️

[@nickhikesinthewoods6150]

I've been loving your videos I started minimalism this year and I have gotten rid of a lot of stuff but I have a shopping addiction still I have a problem with buying shoes and clothing I think everything's cool and I want it ha ha I have slowed down though because things aren't cheap anymore

[@masha1380]

I think this ongoing financial problem in the world made me even more minimalist coz if i don't have enough money to spend, it doesn't matter how much i eager to buy sth coz i can't do it anyway 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Masha, yes these times do make me wonder even more about the money I'm spending as well..

[@lv394]

Absolutely agree with Vera. For me, decrease exposure does wonders. During the pandemic, I would watch A LOT of perfume videos - day and night. Those couple of years, I spent too much money on perfume. 💸 I realized this as I was doing my numbers and decided to stop watching perfume videos to stop the temptation and it worked beautifully. Now, I’m focused on using up everything I’ve purchased. 😅

[@rachelray7879]

Very underrated mentality!. Use all of what I have first before buying new. Great comment

[@michaelconnolly7681]

All of your points here are game changers. The first thing I'm going to implement is the wish list. I've found myself recently going through my things and can't believe I spent money on things I just don't use or need it. So I've started decluttering one item daily like I used to. If I declutter slowly but surely, I'm less inclined to add more stuff. The wish list is an amazing idea. All your ideas are very inspiring and helpful.

[@sharonfarnsworth3325]

I want to have less books. I cleaned out my books when we downsized 1000 square ft. Then I joined paperback swap to trade books. I kept the books of “my favorite authors”. Now I am going thru those to downsize. It is quite a project!

[@BeFree-BeFrugal]

Great tips. I buy what I need and go out in nature instead of going shopping

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks, sounds great! :) Have a nice day

[@patriciahoustonpaintings]

Great topic - definitely, life becomes easier. I have a small space, and I love it❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Awesome, thanks Patricia, have a great day!

[@siaeva]

I had a really set idea of what I wanted for my apartment and my wardrobe so now that i've reached that goal clothes-wise and almost reached it apartment-wise, there's very little that I want or need in both of those areas. In my case it was a good move to invest wisely at the beginning with things I love and that I know will last me a very long time. I think by the end of this year I would start to actually struggle to find anything worth adding - and that's a great feeling! ... And great video by the way!

[@CrisTryingToBeProductive]

This! It drives me crazy that people buy things don't love for the sake of save a little.

[@siaeva]

@@CrisTryingToBeProductive totally!

[@raineedaytinyfilms]

I was really sick for quite a few years, then stress and people around me passing away. I made the excuse that i was getting myself hobbies and a ‘new wardrobe’ but really i was just losing my mind a bit 😢 now I have been de cluttering and it’s been slow going because I’m so overwhelmed.. and I have 2 houses, one has more than the other so one will be a lot easier.. but my main house is super overwhelming.. I’m watching videos to motivate myself to do at least something every day or every week, as long as I’m making progress… I’m trying not to beat myself up too much & I believe I’ll eventually get there

[@sherylramirez2315]

Awesome, I'm learning, thank you so much for your vlogs 🤗💯❤️

[@jeanmi5045]

You should do a video on how you do your make up. How long does it take. Maybe ways you keep it simple!

[@bumblebee_mrs]

I get very inspired by you Vera every time, to keep decluttering and create more. Best thing i did was to quit sugar 4 years ago, and have never looked back.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thank you, so happy to hear it! Also, congrats on quitting sugar, that's awesome!!

[@bumblebee_mrs]

@@SimpleHappyZen I quit sugar as I found losing weight harder as I get older. Even though I love fitness.

[@clawscrab3497]

I definitely feel like the urge to buy something, especially if it looks good or might compliment an item I already have is non-existent now :)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Sounds great! :) Have a great day

[@goodenoughgirl8102]

I think what is the hardest for me is hitting fast food or take out far too much. Lately I’ve been working on more motivation to eat at home. Mostly it’s just ideas and inspiration about what to make or eat that seems so hard. And then sometimes it’s just me making a mountain out of a molehill about food prep, cooking and cleaning up after. Just like with how I got better at keeping up with cleaning, I have been applying the same concepts. Things like telling myself I can do it and it won’t be that hard. Also I think what seems to help the most is just that I don’t want to waste groceries or let produce go bad on me. Getting there slowly but surely. What makes me want to go buy more things is usually for convenience. I want to find all the “easy” buttons. Lol. I think what I want less of the most is square footage in my home. Downsizing in a big way. I feel like that is a huge thing that will naturally foster all the other things. Bcuz if you only have so much space then you can only have so much stuff that will fit in it. But mostly Bcuz I want less to have to clean, maintain, repair. Less to worry over or be responsible for. I just want less work and less stress. It also will be naturally cheaper across the board (home improvements, repairs, utilities, etc). Also just the whole concept of quality over quantity. I’d rather have a little bit of the primo stuff rather than a lot of the cheapo stuff. Can’t afford a big mansion, but I can likely afford a “mini mansion.” Lol.

[@Robert-qm1ld]

THE pink sweater❤. If a person wants to buy less stuff, make a rule to match the price with savings. Then it cost double, sort of. I did this when I first started. So, less less is less more? 🤫😛. (Thoughts while watching video😀)

[@sorayan.3807]

I'm not a minimalist at all, but I do feel like I've too much stuff and having all of this stuff is not making me happy. I'm in the process of moving houses and I'm going to try to declutter a lot. Perfume, cosmetics and clothing. I do want to own less and be happy with less. Your videos are a great help. Thank you!

[@rupachemudupathi9569]

1st tip I rather do this - make a list of all brands and particular product they are famous for because every brand doesnt give all great products and then I tend to try 1 product , every 3 months In this active lifestyle where you constantly come in touch with brands products people keep asking what you use - we feel exploring , have information , at the same time explore slowly Only while travelling or so ... use a product as a product as it's not good for environment as well

[@rebeccarendle3706]

Totally agree with you.. all points totally true! "the less you have, the less you want." I desperately need to declutter again.. i haven't done a whole house one since 2019, due to covid.. now its time. I have a canoe on my widh list since 3years.. but its just not the right time now.. i have saved for it and will get it when the time is right. I follow Doctors on you tube and learn about how to clean the body and skin naturally from the inside out eg wash your face with hot and then really cold water.. this stimulates your body to make new skin and keeps your skin younger. etc. I go fridge shopping 1x fortnight Freezer shop 1x month and dry goods 1x every 3-4mths. Clothes inly to replace and only 2x year.. usually Autumn to Winter and Spring to Summer.

[@ipsitaray1644]

I don't watch any hauls so that I don't end up doing impulse purchase

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Smart! :)

[@ipsitaray1644]

@@SimpleHappyZen Thank you Vera 😊

[@panipiotrowski2275]

I want to have less sewing supplies and fabric. (I sew and make about 50% of my wardrobe...but it's very easy to have too much of a good thing! When I have "too much" I find it stifles my creativity and it quickly becomes a burden.) I am trying to evaluate what I have and trying to see what tools I don't really use (even if they're cool), and what fabrics I really want to make into clothes I'll wear. It's taking me time... but I think what you said in the video that when we declutter it helps to not acquire more because it's hard to declutter and recognize what money was lost in the process. Thanks for the video! Very helpful tips. (Now...to go declutter some more fabrics...) :)

[@bessieoriotis5104]

Some of us never really got over tripping or falling over things no matter how old we got, I have found that I tended too have too much stuff or furniture. Now I have what I like and need and keep working on it has made my life nicer. Being a minimalist has given me more space, more peace and less accidents. 😅

[@cherrycain6425]

I have the scarcity mindset. We had the money for our needs and things. But, my mother sometimes worked two jobs because my dad was an alcoholic and didn’t want to work alot. Mom tried not to worry around me, but I could sense it from an early age. I’m on a fixed income because I have had cancer and not able to hold down a job now. So, I worry that I might run out of money. I have a son that lives an hour away and he is getting married. He doesn’t hardly ever worry about money unless he’s been sick and had to miss work. But, God always provides. ❤️✝️🙏🏻

[@autorinmitkatze]

Since I decluttered my stuff using the 30 day minimalsm challenge a year ago (and also drawing my husband into it a little), I started byuing less stuff and thinking about really needing it. My weak spot is art supplies and bullet journaling stuff, so eveytime I see a fancy new set of washi tapes or brush pens I now tell myself that I already own four sets of brush pens and a ton of decorative tapes and stick to just looking at them and not buying. A while ago I placed some washis in my trolley while shopping, and in the end put them back before checking out, and I was so proud of myself for not taking them home.

[@Larry21924]

Your narrative is richly woven; much like a book that was rich in detail and insight. "The Joy of Less: A Minimalist Living Guide" by Matthew Cove

[@speedyspeedgirl1778]

Comment for the algorithm :) Exposure definitely is a big deal! Sometimes I wish I lived in a small village again rather than in a capital city. I want less furniture. Specifically, I don't want a sofa but it came with the place and I tried selling and then gifting it but nobody wanted it. So now the only option is to throw it away and that feels wasteful because it is still useable and also I fear that people think I'm weird for not having a sofa in my living room.

[@jacquelinetaylor3595]

I would like less living room furniture. My husband is very tall, and I’m very short. Our comfort requirements are different. So we have always had trouble finding the right living room furniture. Currently, we have The Couch That Ate New York and it’s Giant Sidekick Loveseat. We have a beautiful living room, but I just want it all out of here. Oh, and he has That Recliner. Huge, and losing its looks if it ever had any. I am a real clutter buster. I delight in clear spaces. I will figure out a way to make this better, and, like you say, I am so grateful to have this minor problem of “too much.”

[@amyhoover9]

What I want less of, though I realize that this is an issue that takes more consistent effort, is mental issues. Sometimes I face a lot of struggles or frustrations because of me having ADD and this can affect my mood/overall outlook on life. Forgetfulness, accepting the reality of getting older or just not letting the small stuff get to me can either be easy or hard. I guess just the act of living and being me, when looked at in a negative light, is hard sometimes.

[@ronda176]

I can relate. Hang in there. I’ve had many ups and downs with my mental health but somehow I find the courage to get past the lows and keep trying. Reaching out for professional help was so scary but I’m glad I did it.

[@M_SC]

You definitely want to minimalism time with people who see your uncontrollable or accidental things like forgetfulness as moral flaws. Those people will make you depressed just by thinking about them, taking in their point of view. They are dunning Kruger people.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hi Amy, thanks for sharing your thoughts. I'm sorry to hear that you're struggling at times. Must be hard to deal with sometimes... I can relate to what you said about your outlook and mood changing depending on how you look at things, sometimes the skies are sunny and sometimes they're dark and stormy. Hang in there and like Ronda said, it could always be a good idea to talk about things with someone if you think that could help. 🌷 Sending a big hug your way!

[@geoffphillips5872]

Minimalism is desirable & will engender contentment. Growing older is a gift if you are reasonably healthy. The actual average living age I estimate as about 66 for men & 69 for women. The oft stated approximately 82 for men & 86 for women are the ages at demise only - the fortunate ones. Therefore, should you be 98 like my mother was, you have outlived the average woman by approximately 29 years.

[@PABWECG]

Thank you again, Vera, for another helpful video. I particularly could relate to the "image" challenge, in relation to our life choices. Choosing jobs we think we should like, for instance. Letting go of the need for others to approve of our life choices is a big stumbling block for many of us, myself included.

[@jimadams6159]

Your explanations are always so clear and inspiring. I am slowly progressing towards a minimal lifestyle and find your advice helps me so much. Clearing a large amount of things that I have collected over the years and really do not need is a slow process, however I do feel that I am getting there.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Awesome Jim, way to go! Just keep taking small steps and enjoy the process :) You might be surprised when you look back it, how quickly big changes happened :)

[@soheilay6778]

... fitting in better ...which never happened" 😄💚

[@SimpleHappyZen]

It's true! :)

[@francescachecchin6191]

I enjoy things just looking at them in the stress... even with cakes, i feel satisfied just admiring them...

[@amandasymon4363]

Thank you Vera. I am soon going to substantially down size my home. I have started decluttering but still need help to further reduce my things. I so want to free up my time. My wardrobes are full of clothing (which is for my fantasy self ) - I too remember all the financial worry my parents had when I was growing up and it has impacted on me. I am still afraid to let go of so many of my possessions but overwhelmingly feel the need to lighten my life and feel more care free. I will keep watching you for inspiration. Thank you so much 🙏

[@SusanStapes]

Thank you for this video. ❤

[@cathylynnpietranton]

Thanks Vera for these great reminders.❤️. I love Autumn and Christmas. I do have miminal Christmas decorations but last fall I was watching videos on decorating your home for Autumn and I bought some 3 ceramic pumpkins. Now I really don't want them so I gave them away. I know what a waste of time and money. That's was this video helps put things into perspective.❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah haha I can relate :) I'm always tempted to get some Christmas decorations, just because they all look so cute in the stores and in people's videos.

[@Nikki-fl6op]

Hi Cathy I was doing that as well and very tempted to buy new stuff but then I watched videos of minamilists who use real things found in nature to decorate their spaces for fall and Christmas instead of ceramic things. I just thought that might be a good idea for you try if u love decorating for the seasons and holidays like I do :)

[@cathylynnpietranton]

@@Nikki-fl6op thank you 🙂

[@keystojournaling9290]

Thank you! I really needed to see this video. Going to start with my bedroom today and minimalize!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah so cool!!! Good luck 🤗✨

[@kbs7583]

Another captivating video from you, Vera, with an impressive way to present minimalism.

[@audreyhertz301]

When I feel the urge to shop, I pull out my kindle and find free books to buy on there. Stops me from spending money on items I don't truly need. Mainly junk food 😊

[@minimalistsmanaged]

I love this :) Yay for free kindle books! :D

[@abstractamy]

I would love to hear your thoughts on how to get better at impulse control when food shopping! I rarely go into clothing shops etc. like your tip said but I do need to go into food shops to get food and don't always stick to my list 🙈

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha well, I can relate 😂 Food is so much fun to buy. But with the prices nowadays, it's gotten so expensive to the point where I'm even more careful about sticking to my list. The best tips I've gotten when it comes to food shopping are never to go shopping when you're hungry, and to have a max of 1 or 2 extra things you're 'allowed' to get that aren't on your list. This way, you won't have to limit yourself completely, you can pick out 1 or 2 of your favorites as extras, and you won't get any more than that. At least, that works for me :)

[@kiki-oh7hi]

Excellent messages, Vera! You really made me think!!

[@joank5585]

I love your opening comments about mindset and how minimalism should make our lives easier and not harder also “exposure” is such a trap and it’s true that I wouldn’t even think about so many products if I wasn’t exposing myself to these things, unsubhas helped me so much! I will be thinking about these points today, thnx for these reminders because every time I hear them I get a new take on it! Where I think less is more is with clothing because whenever I have too many clothing choices my life gets very complicated 🙄…I start overthinking about what to wear for that day and it can depend on the weather, the place I’m going or who I’m going to be with and the truth is I really only have one style (jeans/cargo pants/tee shirt,sneakers/sandals….I like to be comfortable and that’s really how I should always dress, ( some exceptions of course), so for me less choices makes it easier! 😚 Great video and I hope you’re enjoying your time off Vera! 👍😎🥰

[@jbasasa]

When you told your journey, it got me to think patterns which I put for myself of how they're worth it or not. And when you put it into perspective, I'm starting to realize that I don't need them anymore. For me is having the lastest gadget but I love technology and trying it out but I feel I don't need to get it new things every time until it's really needed to. Also another is having more and this one is letting people control me to have more but I didn't like I didn't had interest in IT. Yes as kid but not now for the rest of my life. I'm a KZbinr as well and designer and those give me clarity of what I wanted for, even for million years. For all your said, I will take it to account. Thank you helping on this

[@camillaholst7321]

Very, thank you so much for your honesty about reasons for wanting and worries about not having enough. I agree that it can be helpfull for us, to go deeper into your needs - and fears. And to, kind and mindfully, embrace what we find, so we can guide yourselves towards better ways, healthier lifes, more gratitudes and the genuine feeling of happiness, of being and having enough. Thank you for sharing 🙏

[@heidiyaeger9118]

Very helpful video. I'm working on being more intentional with my money and not spending money on the little things that I don't really need.

[@Elegeia1]

This is exactly what I needed to hear today 🙏

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Glad to hear the timing worked out 🤗✨🌺 Have a great weekend!

[@deborahmeyers551]

I have gone past getting tempted Vera I love that I won't buy till absolutely necessary 💜

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing Deborah! :) Enjoy your weekend Deborah!

[@dieManu77]

Great video, Vera! Thank you for this. I always have one thought in my mind: Having more (stuff) doesn't make you a better person! And of course the opposite too! I am what I am. And not I am what I have (or not). Stay safe ❤️

[@lulusp1023]

I have to thank you for inspiring me to become a minimalist....I did it with your videos of course....life is much simpler! Best to you....and your loved ones! Ps: your apartment looks amazing ...congrats

[@yalikang6536]

Thank you so much for sharing ❤

[@chrisoulalakkas7935]

The grass is greener where you water it.

[@minimalistsmanaged]

My dad always said this to me as a kid :) I love this quote so much

[@khadeeshasingh-mccollin7352]

Thanks again for great advice

[@sarahcarlos4499]

Here in BC Canada, Nordstrom is closing down and having a huge sale. My husband asked if I wanted to buy anything or take a look. I said that I had everything I could ever want. I've been working on decluttering and heading towards minimalism. I still have a LONG way to go but my top goal this year is to only have what I need and love in my home. Thank you so much for your videos 😆😆😆😊 you've been such a big help and inspiration ❤️

[@bollybelly]

Hi I’m a new subscriber to your channel. Your videos are really fun and easy to watch. Thank you for great content.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Linda, welcome to the channel! :)

[@JoanSilva52]

As always ... Enjoyable, personal and informative. TY 🌹

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yay, thanks Joan!! 🤗✨💕 Have a wonderful day!

[@samho8541]

Always love your videos

[@VivaLaVittoria]

I want to have less clothes, shoes and accessories. I have been on a long journey (for several years now!) of downsizing my wardrobe. I used to have so much- a lot of which I never wore and were "fantasy self" items- that it left me feeling stressed, claustrophobic, even a bit nauseated. Kind of like if you eat too much to the point you feel sick. It was so hard for me to let go of the fantasy self that bought a lot of these items in the first place, and I'm still in the process of downsizing more and more. But at least at this point I feel like my wardrobe is "reasonable", rather than "unreasonable" 😂 Eventually it will be even smaller. I am focusing on wearing things out and not replacing ever item unless I really need it, so over time the wardrobe will reduce further.

[@kimb884]

This is a great video! One of your best. I really loved considering all these ideas. 💕

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Wow thank you so much Kim! Have a great day!

[@maryabreu9634]

Thanks Vera. If the whole world became 'Minimalist', I think it would help improve the 'Climate' crisis. Capitalists may not approve as they may have less financial profits. 24% of the world's population live in poverty. Which means they are forced into 'minimalism' as they do not have a choice! I think becoming a Minimalist is the most responsible thing that people in the more developed parts of the world can do to help save the Planet and reduce pollution, which the poorer countries are paying the price with their lives from flooding, fires and freak weather conditions. Well done for paving the way to help us to lead more simple and less cluttered lives! 🎉 😊 👏. Thank you x Mary on the South Coast of the UK x

[@samanthapoole9859]

These tips truly resonated with me. ❤😊

[@sharondube1101]

I want to purge my house of all the things my fantasy self acquired. Do we play board games? Absolutely but we only use about 5-6 of the 20+ games we have. My niece and I no longer craft but I have several totes full of supplies. These are some easy areas where I could get stuff I need to manage out of the house.

[@Ounceofdeception]

Heel inspirerend, zoals gewoonlijk!😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah dankjewel!! :) Leuk om te horen. Fijne zondag nog!

[@freeasabutterfly9689]

The only hauls I like to watch are grocery hauls

[@eustaquiozambrano2974]

Good speech as always 👍

[@romyfleurs4990]

I'm doing well minimizing my home, except for my closet. I struggle getting rid of my dresses and coats. I own like 30 coats and 40 dresses. I love them all, but it is too much to own and I'm not happy about those high numbers :/ Thank you so much for this video I love it! : )

[@rayderrich]

As a synthesizer nerd I often talk about what we call G.A.S. : Gear Acquisition Syndrome. The more videos I watch about the available music gear the less music I make as my mind is always occupied with making internal choices (even though I can not even afford most of them). I desperately needed some Vera-time to correct my wandering mind. Thank you lady.

[@rebeccabaron1348]

I absolutely LOVE ❤❤ your color scheme. It is so relaxing for the mind.

[@bethany9477]

I've recently discovered your videos Vera & I'm so greatful to have found them. Loved how you explained why decluttering can actually help to boost your minimalist mindset, I've definitely found that helpful (combined with your other tips of course). Ps: this isn't relevant, but I like your top, feels like Spring is on it's way 🌸

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much for your kind comment Bethany!! :) And welcome to the channel! Also thanks, this top is a community favorite hahaha

[@mape6777]

One way I usually skip the urge to buy something is thinking: what is the probability that in a couple of months I will find something that I want more and is more expensive and then I will feel bad for having spent the money on this? I usually feel that the probability is high, and end up not buying anything, even if that "probability" doesn't come true.

[@Sophie-pi4ov]

So true 😍

[@dianeyoung8068]

My husband is constantly shopping on Amazon. His habit is driving me crazy.

[@carlienvandernet7902]

Thanks Vera for this video ❤. On the art and craft supplies for me it is always very difficult. I love creating, but with the amount of stuff I have I just don’t know where to find everything and so it scares me to start. I would love to get rid of everything and just start over again with a small amount of things so I can easily finish it and only then buying a new small amount for the next project. On the other hand I’m scared to have not all the materials that I need to make the project how I would love it to look 😂. But this way I’m buying arts and craft supplies for a fantasy me that will never start creating things again 😅. Books are somethings I will never get enough either and that has to do with growing up without money to buy books. My parents were rather poor like yours and ofcourse I had a membership at the library so I could read, but really great books I wanted to have and hold, not bring back to the library. As soon as I started working I bought every childrenbook that I ever read and still could get my hands on 😂.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Carlien, happy to hear you enjoyed the video!! 🤗✨❤️

[@michaelb41]

Thanks!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thank you so much for your superthanks 🤗❤ That's so kind of you. Have a wonderful day

[@sanja7489]

Excellent advices...just what I need, as I still go to the shops and buy things out of the list, I must change that 🙃💕

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha good timing then! :) I think it's actually fine to do that if it's only every once in a while. We all determine for ourselves where the balance lies :) Have a wonderful rest of your weekend!

[@sanja7489]

@@SimpleHappyZen Thank you🥰

[@2009ashmi]

Hi Vera. I will definitely be following these hints. I wanted to ask you if you know of a good book on burn out and recovering from it that you can recommend. I'm also starting counseling on Monday. I know you went through this so anything you can recommend would be so helpful. Sending hugs! 💕💕💕

[@awhitechilliify]

I had a great delayed gratification moment this winter season. I needed a new jacket, I own 1 winter jacket but I needed one for specific weather conditions. I found jacket I really liked already in October, but patiently waited until February to buy, because I knew sales will come and the price will go down by a lot. Which happened, so I got the jacket like with 50% discount :D

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah really clever! Always smart to wait if you can, until it goes on sale :)