Intentional Living: MINIMALISM vs. ESSENTIALISM Explained

[@BenitaLarsson]

If you're looking for sources, I've tried to collect as many as I can here: www.benitalarsson.com/sources

[@susan5661]

I don’t worry about any labels. I have a hugely simplified home, I have reduced digital clutter, toxic relationships and have a streamlined financial life. I have time to focus on my health, family and friends, traveling and being generous to others. No labels, except I am happy and content.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Happiness and contentment are most important for sure!

[@tracypalmer-wilson7022]

I would refer to myself as an aspiring minimalist if asked , thank you for your posts they inspire and calm me

[@gracemeneses9217]

That is so good!

[@Karincl7]

​@maruiacancer6spam again

[@dianasanzana1838]

You are my kind of person. I am working on the same priorities. I wish I had understood this when I was in my 20’s! ❤

[@denisemarie485]

Seriously? In a world with so many important issues to sort out, they are worried about what they think minimalism should be?! 😕 Thank you for your time and effort to make these videos 🤗 We shouldn't have to explain ourselves to strangers. If it's not beautiful or useful, get rid of it. Simple as that ❤

[@BenitaLarsson]

I know! Thank you so much, I’m so happy that you enjoyed them!

[@beatricepineda5923]

You are clearly someone who thinks for herself. That is important. Thank you for the explanation; I gained insight. You did so without harshness and being judgmental.

[@catetanenbaum2418]

I think it's a distraction so they don't have to think about the important issues in the world.

[@dianasanzana1838]

Essentialist or minimalist… ? who cares! You are just the perfect contribution to my life every time you post a video. 🌷 Have a wonderful week, Benita!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you! I wish you the same!

[@Mina_Susnjevic]

Lovely statement! I couldn’t agree more 🎉 Benita is bringing so much value with her awesome videos. Have a great week both!

[@Sundayonthefarm]

People are ridiculous to think we are one thing and one thing only. That’s why I don’t like saying “I am” but say “I practice” instead. We are so much more than a label.❤️

[@BenitaLarsson]

That’s a great strategy!

[@fiddlersthree8463]

Love that!! I practice.

[@doveandolive1153]

I think everyone has their own journey when they take a minimalism path. I've made leaps and bounds on my journey and still looking forward to more . I'm with you Benita you said it beautifully "What matters is that you're happy with your life, your home and the people around you"❤

[@BenitaLarsson]

Yes, exactly, things evolve and change too!

[@guernicaP]

Benita brushing her cat’s face with the tooth brush is the most adorable thing ❤ awesome video as always 😊 your videos put me at ease everytime. Take care!

[@BenitaLarsson]

It’s his favorite thing in the whole world🪥😅

[@darlenechandler2403]

@@BenitaLarssonYour cat is so adorable when we see him getting his face brushed, so sweet to see.

[@fiddlersthree8463]

I love that you kiss your cats so often.

[@tinalemna7998]

That’s exactly how I try to live, intentionally with fewer belongings. Well said Benita.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much!😊

[@txspacemom765]

I call my life curated. And it ebbs and flows with where I am at in my life. Love your vlogs!

[@BenitaLarsson]

I might steal that from you! I live a curated life!🙌🏻

[@txspacemom765]

@@BenitaLarsson OHHHH YEAH!!! I was tired of the "minimalist" argument so curated seems to fit my lifestyle better. I am also a museum lover, so it is fitting! ;)

[@iahorvath]

I don't know why labels are so important to some people. We watch you because we appreciate your simple and intentional approach to life and living. It is very hard to edit and organize stuff and your videos give us a road map on how to do this. It is one thing to simply show your environment one video after another and quite another to give us (the viewer) tips and tricks on how to get there if that's what we seek. You share the latter with us beautifully and I applaud you for that.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Aww, thank you, that’s so nice!

[@voiceojane]

Seems like using one’s time to count items and nitpick over labels kinda defeats the purpose of either, lol! 😆🤷🏻‍♀️ in addition to good “filmmaking” and a soothing aesthetic, I like that you explore your intentionality and therefore inspire me to explore mine. And your wry sense of humor comes through, too 😉

[@lyndarossi933]

Some believe that minimalism means getting rid of virtually everything! Not true. I love how you have arranged your new home and it looks comfy and spacious without clutter but with the things you need,use and love!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Yes! Thank you!

[@TeeBoyd88]

Even the scenes outside of your home makes me feel calm, cool and grateful.

[@BenitaLarsson]

I'm glad you enjoy that too!

[@Chanterelle137]

Living intentionally, living with less, enjoying the things and experiences that matter. That makes sense to me. The label isn't important. Thank you for your videos -- they are wonderful!

[@BenitaLarsson]

I’m so happy you like them!

[@kimbwf629]

I am no into labels or trying to live up to someone else’s definitions. I just live life my way. I enjoy your videos. 🌸

[@BenitaLarsson]

I’m so glad you enjoy them!

[@snowdrop8509]

Well said , no one has to explain their choices. especially when your choices have given you a happy , contented and intentional life , who needs more than that

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much!

[@irishussong8197]

Dear Benita! The last sentence you spoke out is so true and I had that on my mind all the time watching your video! It doesn’t matter what one is following, the most important point is to be happy!! Thank you for sharing your thoughts!!🤗😌cheers from Iris from southwest Germany!☺️🤩🤗

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thanks so much for watching again!

[@irishussong8197]

@@BenitaLarsson it’s a pleasure!🥰

[@clarebowers4060]

My goodness, those that have to label, or contradict your way of living Benita, clearly need something else IN their lives… I love your videos, your home and the space you have around you, I feel I can breath in deeply when watching your lifestyle xxx

[@BenitaLarsson]

I’m so happy if my videos bring you peace and calm😊

[@AnneBlochlaine]

Thank you for your videos and advices, whatever team in "ism" you belong to, you bring daily grace, calm, and spirit. Take good care of yourself.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you! You too!

[@gvolk11]

❤Thank you. The move of videos to once every other week has me turning on the alert for the first time. I don’t want to miss your thoughtful 9:01 updates. Quality not quantity. Thank you.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you for that! I agree, making a video a week would not be sustainable for me and the quality would suffer.

[@andrewk473]

Wow! I really enjoyed this video. I especially enjoyed the bit near the end where you talk about the 95% of your life that we don't see where your not "looking out windows" and "slowly walking through your apartment." Made me chuckle. Helps put things in better perspective. Right before that I was commenting to myself how much I enjoy the way you film things and the angles you choose. Is that something you learned or just acquired?

[@BenitaLarsson]

Glad you enjoyed it! I’ve been creating videos for over four years now and since my home isn’t huge, I try to find new angles to make things a bit more interesting.

[@martinauhl498]

Liebe Benita, für mich bist du ganz klar ein Minimalist. 😊🌼

[@BenitaLarsson]

Danke! I appreciate that!

[@coolingwinds]

These topics are great for discussion, but… “♥️What matters is that you’re happy with your life, your home and the people around you.” That part, yeah😉👍🏾

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you, I’m glad you agree!

[@elena_a-2023]

Great video!! Life is a journey and being a minimalist is about that. It is not a destination. I have been working on having less and enjoying my life more. Less clutter brings peace of mind. Thanks again for continuing to be a source of inspiration for me.

[@BenitaLarsson]

I’m glad you enjoyed it!

[@dianeyoung8068]

I love the pretty bouquet of wild flowers, the museum shots..and of course, your sweet cat. Your videos are so pleasing to watch Benita. What I like are visually clean and beautiful spaces, so i guess essentially, I am a minimalist too.

[@BenitaLarsson]

I’m so happy you enjoyed it!

[@kimberlyespinoza7970]

I'm a recovering maximalist. I watch shows on minmalism to help keep me in check. Thanks for creating your content on youtube

[@penny3767]

Well said and well presented. You are perfect just as you are, rock on! Hugs to Bonus 🐈‍⬛ who is perfect just as he is too!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank your! And yes, he’s Mr Perfection!🐈‍⬛🎩

[@liberatedturmoil]

As always, Benita, when you touch upon the comments you get, I admire your perspective. When I hear what other people of these two movements or phiolosophies point out to you, how "you are not this" or "you have too much of that" it makes me wonder that it's ironic that, considering the basics you pointed out in this video, they find space and time in themselves to not only disagree but also to type it down. As if it's essential to them to let you know of what they think of you or at the mininimum they need to let everyone else know how pure or right they are. I'm grateful for your relentless repetition of how you don't care what they think of you and taking their comments as a starting point to your piece of content. Thank you.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you, you really pinpointed it!

[@susanproctor-brown9762]

Love this video Benita, I always find you very calming and relaxing to watch. Some people like to judge or label a person instead of accepting we are all different, all that matters is that we treat each other with love and respect and are happy with ourselves. Looking forward to your next video.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much!

[@leejacobs3620]

'It doesn't really matter does it.' Too true Benita.

[@kimbaker77]

I don't class myself as a minimalist but having minimalist intentions has made my life and mind less cluttered and more focussed. Your videos have helped me achieve this. You don't have to have a label. Just keep doing what you're doing x

[@BenitaLarsson]

Love that!

[@alisonmckenzie1415]

I agree with you Benita Essentialism sounds very grand.I am still reducing what I have in my home, having less clutter does bring me peace.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Reducing your belongings can really lift the weight off your shoulders!

[@TheSoundsInside]

You are brilliant. I love your humour! 😁 Thank you for brightening my day with another fab video!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Aww, that's so sweet, thank you!

[@KarronAngel]

People should mind their own business. You have helped me get rid of stuff and im truly grateful. Please keep doing these videos, you are making a difference. xxxxxx

[@-.-.-.-.-..]

First time commenting here, I want to say that your videos encourage me when I lose motivation to clear out stuff. So thank you very much.

[@BenitaLarsson]

I'm so glad!

[@annakozoriz]

I like the way your apartment looks like and that you do not have clutter Benita. You inspire me at least to look that direction. You are very inspirational.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much!

[@lidiad2678]

Hello Benita, I'm so glad that thanks to your inspiration I've become an essentialist and my life is so peaceful and fulfilled with things that matter. Have a nice week.

[@BenitaLarsson]

I’m so happy you found a way of life that makes sense to you!

[@broomhag]

I'm probably about 75% essentialist and 25% minimalist. I have things around me that make me happy but still much more than I absolutely need. I am finally paring those things down and giving to people I know can use and appreciate them. I find your videos inspiring and calming and I thank you for posting them.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much for watching them!

[@sanbsaha21.5]

I am glad you addressed this issue. We have too many debates on minimalists, maximalists, frugalists, essentialists and what not😂 . I feel its not wise to label anything as life and human nature is more complex than simple labels. I just came back from Stockholm this summer and I loved ferry hopping and the slower pace of life.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thanks so much for watching! Stockholm is so nice this time of year, isn’t it?

[@sanbsaha21.5]

@@BenitaLarsson yes absolutely ❤

[@melmil9836]

I couldn’t agree more with you Benita, it doesn’t matter which one as long as you are happy with the way you live and you are a good person to others that matter to you. These people trying to tell you what you are are ridiculous.

[@sharonshmuel3386]

Beautiful video loved it & I agree we don’t need to be labeled! We aren’t a package 📦 love how you spoil 🐈‍⬛ This gave me so much joy to watch Thanks ❤

[@BenitaLarsson]

Oh, he’s so spoilt! He demands that toothbrush several times a day😅 And thank you!

[@planetissa4899]

​@@BenitaLarssonSo cute you brushing your kitties whiskers like that!😊💛

[@katiecoole101]

Benita, I always admire Your honesty, Your own philosophy and taste and not putting yourself in a box. Thank you for Your inspiring videos!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much!

[@heidimeigs5192]

Dear Benita, I have seen the type comments that you mention receiving. I think these people are ridiculous with their insistence on following what THEY think is THE very definition of minimalism. They are very rigid in their thinking. I always think that these people are the type to follow every popular trend, whether in lifestyle, food, wardrobe, even the type vehicle they might drive. I’m too old to be bothered by these kinds of people now. I started out liking what I was seeing as minimalism…..the loose concept of it, because my excess stuff was causing stress in my life. But I quickly became disenchanted with the “moralists”. As things have worked out, I have dropped any strict description of what I was working toward in my own life. I have simplified my life in many ways and it suits me….maybe not anyone else at all. And that’s ok. I would listen to you every week because I like people in general and you are very likable to me. What I like about other people are our differences. When I first found you I liked you allowing us into your journey. Then when I learned that you are in Stockholm, I was thrilled. My ex husband was in the US military and we moved around a good bit. Sweden was and remains my favorite assignment. I have said ever since then that Stockholm is the only city in the world I would voluntarily live in. Please keep allowing us to follow your journey only to the extent that it works for you. Hej da.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you! You’re right, simplify to the degree that works for you!

[@isabellebrooke]

Great video, as always. I agree that spending too much time worrying about how to label oneself is a waste of that time. Being happy with who you are, regardless of the label, is the most important thing. Both Minimalism and Essentialism are nor absolutes but continuums. Where you fit on the continuum probably varies at different stages of your life. I am heading to a more Minimal lifestyle as I age. I am trying to set things up so that things will be easier when I am less physically able.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Different seasons in life do bring different needs!

[@MindyB767]

Well, “essentially”, you made me smile! Love your outlook and witty personality😊

[@BenitaLarsson]

Yay, thank you!

[@janhaydon1505]

I do love your videos Benita they are so calming and I always get loads of ideas and inspiration from them. Your apartment has really taken shape and looking so lovely and calming. Thank you :)

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much!

[@jenm3056]

beautiful as always and your last comments were so perfect and human. these lovely videos are a curated snapshot, not your entire being. I don't know why social media with all the wonderful qualities has also engendered extreme negative and critical commentary on another's life. as you and other posters said, labels don't matter. what you put out in the world is so beautiful and we are grateful to you for sharing your perspective, eye, honesty and grace.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you! 😊

[@_silentrose]

Gliding in slow mo through your beautiful apartment (no matter if it’s in this new one or your old one) is one of my favorite parts in your videos!!! 😂 I definitely have always considered you as a minimalist but don’t worry about what others say since it doesn’t matter anyway - Your lifestyle has been such an inspiration to me and will always continue to be ❤

[@BenitaLarsson]

Oh thank you!

[@shellystorey8048]

Great video! It’s not about the labels, its about simplifying life for me. Thanks for sharing.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Yes, that’s where it’s at!

[@elyjane8316]

Great vid as always. I don't like labels for ourselves. We are what we are and we are content/happy with that. Enjoy the life you have made.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Well said! I agree!

[@rhonaklipp]

Once again a lovely video. Thank you for the work you put into them!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much for watching them!

[@susanpotterfield6434]

What you put out in your videos is encouraging and doesn't need a label. Thank you for sharing. Someone else I follow calls it minimalism my way. Whatever it is it is positive and good.

[@BenitaLarsson]

I like that description! Thank you!

[@sdd1210]

I love your minimalist aesthetic! I’m definitely more of a maximalist but keep things like furniture lines minimalist. I don’t like fussy but I like lots of plants, books, artwork. Seems there are degrees of everything. ❤️ I also appreciate your gorgeous videos of you gliding across the room! 😆

[@BenitaLarsson]

There sure are degrees of everything! Im so happy you enjoy my videos😊

[@christophermaulden733]

I like the look of rich maximalist interiors in magazines , Instagram , and house museums . But , for me , it isn't practical . Unless one is wealthy with paid staff , how do you keep maximalist interiors clean and dust free ? Maximalist interiors seems overwhelming to keep dust free and clean . Plus maximalist interiors combined with collecting can easily become hoarding and unclean . I know of people that seem to be controlled by their stuff and limits their life and options especially when they become elderly or develop health problems . Maximalism can quickly become clutter and hoarding and lead to unclean smelly environment . I do love looking at maximalist British interiors and Ralph Lauren Old Manor " sets " .

[@docentofdeLight]

I could watch you brush Bonus all day. That was the most delightfully relaxing thing I’ve seen all day ❤❤❤

[@BenitaLarsson]

He would prefer if I did that all day, every day😅

[@Michele_6815]

I am not in any way, shape or form a minimalist, but I absolutely love your aesthetic, and the content that you share with us. I glean all kinds of good ideas from you, and feel like you put out really intelligent content. I always look forward to your videos. And glimpses of dapper Mr. Bonus. 🐈‍⬛ PS-I am so going to try the face toothbrush rubbing with my cats. ❤

[@BenitaLarsson]

I’m so happy you enjoy the videos! Bonus loves the toothbrush more than anything right now😆

[@OveRotstedt]

I don´t care what you are. You make beautiful, harmonious (is that a word) videos that makes me wanna declutter too, but it takes time letting go.... We are all different and you have right mindset of being a minimalist. But I would say you are both since you tend to affect your viewers. God job as always, this was a beautiful video. You really know how to edit your videos!

[@zoebrindle7269]

Absolutely ,being happy and living our own lives how we wish to is what matters . Your videos tick my box every time !! My parents labelled me Zoe 😊and I’m pretty proud of that ! How we choose to live our lives is our prerogative ! And I choose minimalism 🥳! Benita you ROCK 🥳

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you!

[@zoebrindle7269]

🤗

[@shellyweber6219]

No one should conform to a label created by society. I believe it is about traveling a life journey that makes you feel calm and appreciative of what you have. You have a beautiful life!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Well said and I do!

[@eileencarroll6418]

Agree, plus conformity is impossible because real life is always in motion and changing.

[@elizabethbrundagemediajour150]

Thanks for the explanation of differences between minimalism and essentials. Nice to see Bonus enjoying the attention and brushing by you. ❤❤❤

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@Cat-ik1wo]

I call myself an essentialist. Its a natural evolution step from minimalist. I started minimalism 8 yrs ago, it will lead to essentialism. Its natural. Yes, it proceeds from the minimal point. Essentialism is its end game. It has to, because the practice of reduction of items becomes a mindset that the mind then deeply understands is an action to just what is important. Minimalism is just practice, essentialism is the true course.

[@thomashvo]

I always enjoy your content and seeing your home decor as well!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Yay! Thank you!

[@karrie7685]

8:10 😊 your sincerity is gorgeous. thanks for keeping it real benita ❤ enjoy

[@BenitaLarsson]

That's so sweet, thank you!

[@candymay75]

Well said Benita..!!!❤ Love every single video you post!❤❤❤❤❤ People need to be educated & inform, before they open their mouths!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Aww, thank you, that’s so sweet!

[@marieortiz158]

I'm a minimalist in certain areas of my life. I do like to redo my decor so I keep some items until I get sick of them. I definitely think you are a minimalist but like others said...don't worry about labels. Another fabulous video. I love your little kitty cat. So beautiful! Marie❤

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it!

[@AyH25]

I read a quote in a museum today : “If you can label something, you can negate it”, so maybe the fewer labels, the better :)

[@catherineb.7975]

I love your conclusion 🙂 It is all about being the actor of a life that makes you happy 🥰

[@BenitaLarsson]

Yes!!

[@robertawiggins3695]

You are amazing and I enjoy your videos! Your vibe inspires me on my minimalist journey.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Wow, thank you!

[@darlenechandler2403]

Lovely video and your explanation. I live the same way as you and have since divorced. I live with what I need and love and the rest can go and be donated. Even though living clothing and other household items and furniture minimal. I did 2 years ago start to purchase prints for my walls, that is the only excess in my place and some days I find overwhelming, as used to only a couple. Again your cat is adorable having his face brushed with the toothbrush. So sweet to see.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thanks for sharing! Bonus is my main man for sure!

[@jeanshimpeno45]

Everyone sees minimalist differently. I call myself a minimalist because I only have what I use. If I no longer use it , or it doesn’t have a permanent home then I donate it. I’ve been a minimalist for 6 years and it is an ongoing journey. My home is now visitor ready all the time.

[@BenitaLarsson]

I love that!

[@fabmontreal25]

After a stressful day,Your videos always ground and calm me. Thanks again

[@BenitaLarsson]

I’m so happy if my videos are stress relievers!

[@kittykautz153]

Hi Benita, I would definitely classify your aesthetic as minimalist, you don’t have many possessions. Some people define minimalism as having no furniture, one outfit, etc. I think that is extreme.

[@BenitaLarsson]

There are degrees and I’m definitely not extreme😅

[@thelettera9041]

I enjoyed your discussion of the two and thinking about the differences. Thanks for the thought provoking video. Now, back to gliding in slo-mo through my apartment 😅

[@BenitaLarsson]

Glad you enjoyed it! Glide away😆

[@gkreyl8700]

Great video Benita. You are definitely a minimalist!! That's why I watch your videos 😃

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much for always watching!

[@Godisreal123]

I love this type of living Simple no junk clean organized with just the stuff u need ❤

[@BenitaLarsson]

Yes! Thank you!

[@monalisa6599]

Thank you very much for your beautiful inspiring videos, continue it is always a pleasure to find you again. I am minimalist but not extreme. Merci beaucoup pour tes très belles vidéos inspirantes, continue c'est toujours un plaisir de te retrouver. Je suis minimaliste mais pas extrême.

[@BenitaLarsson]

I also wouldn’t call myself extreme😅

[@alexandrajohnson8803]

I call myself a MEnimalist because I don’t indiscriminately apply all the concepts of a minimalism to myself. I do pick and choose ideas that make my life happy and authentic. I don’t believe that number of possessions or labels define a person.

[@BenitaLarsson]

I love that! Menimalist 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@Barb6106]

Ok…whatever!! Can you hear my eye roll?? Why do you need a label? And why oh why are people such experts on others choices? Jeez.. you videos are gorgeous, aspirational and interesting. Your lifestyle suits you and shows an effortlessness that is beyond! Pick a title… call yourself a giraffe for all I care… I just love this channel and you showing us a peek into how you live so beautifully and the charm of another country. This is my dream apartment! And your “less is more” attitude is what makes my insides smile. Do you.., and others can just RELAX AND ENJOY THE VIDEOS! Hallelujah and amen.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Hallelujah and amen from the giraffe over here!

[@Barb6106]

@@BenitaLarsson hahahaha!😘🤪

[@RosaLopez-zw2ff]

Each minimalist is one in their own right. Some have less and some use more but can still be a minimalist. Don't acknowledge those that cannot be happy for you.

[@BenitaLarsson]

It was interesting to research it though!🤓

[@eileencarroll6418]

Agree that you are "minimalist" in lifestyle and design style. And it fits your calm personality. I am definitely not minimal but I strive to make the most out of a small 1 bedroom condo. A small space means a small carbon footprint, lower taxes and lower costs. No garage means that all the things that other people keep in a garage, I need to store those things in the trunk of my car, including a pair of lawn chairs for outdoor concerts. (Because of arthritis, I am unable to sit on the ground or floor.) I wonder about "essentialism". When I list things that are essential to my life they are: Sleep and personal hygiene (including candle-light Epsom salt baths) Food (up to 12 for sit-down dinner, healthy cooking, winter pantry storage space) Clothing (storage, laundry, sewing) Personal finances (bills, investments, correspondence) Music (listening, practicing several, playing instruments with friends) Friends and Family (food and entertainment) Art (Acrylics, watercolor, collections) My challenge is to put as much as possible away while creating a "path of least resistance" to the equipment I want to use most often. For example, instruments sitting out will get practiced most and stay closer to tuned. Bills that stay out until they are paid are more likely to get paid sooner. A stocked refrigerator increases openness to last minute entertaining. Art supplies seem to work well stored as kits in a drawer or a tote. The supplies can be quickly stored but sometimes a project must remain out to dry. My aesthetic won't work for everyone as it can feel overwhelming for some. My "decor " is light neutral with dark wood for contrast. That background is the setting for artworks, music, cooking aromas or essential oils, friends and a colorful clothing style. Because my style is in constant danger of overwhelm, I feel inspired by your channel for your ideas on minimizing visual noise and doing more with less. I declutter almost every day and at 65 I am trying to balance living my life to the fullest with leaving an uncomplicated legacy for my family when I am gone (as in Swedish Death Cleaning).

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much for sharing your perspective!

[@wephotogal]

I always enjoy your videos, Benita. They are relaxing and inspiring and have motivated me to get rid of the clutter and live intentionally. Thank you!!

[@BenitaLarsson]

I’m so happy if my videos have been useful and helpful!

[@janamour_13]

I don't see myself as a minimalist because I just have too much stuff for my liking. But I have been sorting out rigorously for 2-3 years now and then. I only keep what gives me pleasure or is used. I'm currently clearing out a little more because I'm planning a move and the fewer packages I have, the better. In everyday life, it is simply important to me that everything has its place and that it is tidy.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thanks for sharing! Good luck with the move!

[@karianne_k]

I've been so busy lately and finally had time to watch your video, they are always a treat and bring about a sense of calm - for me, anyway🥰 Thanks for inspiring me to focus on the things that matter!

[@linegreibe9563]

Jeg er enig med dig: Det vigtigste må være, at man er glad for det liv, man lever. Tak for de skønne billeder fra Millesgården og fra Mats Gustafson-udstillingen. Jeg var der for nogle uger siden 🤩

[@BenitaLarsson]

Det var en av de finaste utställningar jag sett på länge!

[@222ouch]

whatever minimalism or essentialism...... I love your ideas and inspirations!! You are one of my favorites on You Tube

[@BenitaLarsson]

Wow, thank you!

[@SheilaCainSample]

great explanation and yes, what really matters is how you feel. Your videos are wonderful Benita.

[@louiseperry6920]

Ignore the criticism, you’re videos are inspirational. Love your new kitchen Benita. Hi from New Zealand 💐😊

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@NorseHorseDecor]

Glad to see the regular appearance of a glass of white wine in this video. Both minimal (aesthetically), and essential ✔️

[@BenitaLarsson]

Oh yeah!

[@phoenixjones660]

Kinda disappointed to hear you don't glide in slo-mo around your apartment 24/7....#lifegoals 😉 🤣 I'm all for the practical and effective approach, without sweating the Big Stuff! I also think the intentionality focus is a most useful part of both approaches. Whatever it gets labelled, the wider discussion of the consequences of overconsumption, and alternative ideas of living seem important during another 🌡️🔥 Northern Hemisphere summer 🌼

[@BenitaLarsson]

Haha, I kind of wish I did😅 Yes, the intentionality is where it’s at!

[@Shiryone]

Isn't it amazing that you are not allowed to call yourself what you want on your own channel? Especially in light that there are no exact specifics with these categories. But, for what it's worth, I would consider you a minimalist as well. :-) Tack för att du delar med dig.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you!

[@susannovak8263]

Loved this video. Well done! ❤

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much!!

[@juliebrown3720]

Thanks for a informative video. I love the way you brushed your Cat with the toothbrush going to try on mine.💕

[@BenitaLarsson]

Bonus loves his little brush. He asks me to brush about ten times a day 😅

[@traceymp1405]

Hello Benita! 😃 I think both of these terms could be interpreted differently by different people - we all have ideas on what 'minimalism' would mean or look like in our own lives. I do understand intentional living and I am quite intrigued by that whole concept. There are a lot of similarities with both, I am leaning towards the Essentialism. I love all of your plants - inside and on your patio, beautiful! Absolutely, all that really matters is that you are happy with yourself and the people that you surround yourself with! Have a lovely week! 🌸💮🌸

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you, I wish you the same!

[@MyFocusVaries]

Love your video as always. My response to label critics: Me: The International Minimalists Board has issued a ruling that I'm categorized as a minimalist. Them: There's no international board that determines who fits each category. Me: (slow blink)

[@BenitaLarsson]

Haha! Thank you so much!

[@Prizzy999]

People are so boring, Jesus. They stick to labels as if it was of any importance, guess what it's not. For me you don't own a lot of stuff and also I don't care 'cause I love how clean, tidy and essential your house looks, and that's enough for me to watch your videos. Following trends and obsessing over the number of objects ones owns is a sign of mental illness the way I see it, and I tend not to follow people like that here or in my everyday life. Keep up doing what you enjoy and don't worry about what others think.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you! I appreciate that!

[@immiegee]

Everyone has a different interpretation what minimalism for him/her means. It is not about the numbers, but the way how you feel happy and content in your home. People can be so annoying. When you have 6 spoons when you live alone then you have too much spoons. 🙄 You are clearly happy in and content with your home. That mean you did a great job for yourself. Don't let other people tell you that it is not good enough. Irma from the Netherlands

[@kathrynp7595]

Another wonderful Video, your editing skills are amazing 🤩

[@BenitaLarsson]

Ooh, thank you! That make me so happy to hear!

[@lizwhitelaw864]

Thank you for your videos. I am excited when there is a new one to watch and often revisit them. I love your style and content, and the glimpses of life in Stockholm. Life is too short to be picky about labels. If pushed: I like Optimalist. With best wishes from Western Australia…💐

[@BenitaLarsson]

Glad you like them!

[@jeanmariemclain2836]

I’ve been reading about this subject. In western culture, we’ve been taught that labels, definitions, particular verbal descriptions, categories, and comparisons between things are important. We even go out in the forest and start mentally labeling the species of trees and plants and birds we find. When we come upon something we have never seen before, we try to describe it, decide what it might be similar to, and vow to go home and look it up so we can give it a proper name. It’s even better if we find the Latin name. We can properly place it in our mental categories. Contrast this with the culture of Zen, for example, which focuses almost entirely on the emotions that any event or object conveys to us. Who wants to describe in words the exquisite experience of peace, of melancholy, of beauty? Words miss the point. A formal tea ceremony is just measuring tea, boiling water and drinking tea, yet these words are nothing like the experience. We might do well to stop putting names on everything and just search for the fulfillment of our emotions. It seems unproductive to quibble about whether you are a minimalist or an essentialist. Silly labels. This obsession with definitions and labels is unbalanced. I’m trying to quit this mindset but it is hard. Our culture has indoctrinated us pretty strongly.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thanks so much for sharing that!

[@VanessaPipiripingo]

I completely agree with this. Love how you explained it ❤

[@valorielynwhitman8531]

You have found my thoughts on this subject. I know now that I thought this, but had no words. Thank you for putting your words into my thoughts...and visa versa. ❤

[@idreamtiwasbackatmanderley414]

Vous comparez 3 choses qui n’ont rien à voir : une démarche scientifique pour cataloguer notre environnement (végétal, animal, minéral), une religion (plus exactement un mouvement à l’intérieur d’une religion) et une pratique culturelle (la cérémonie du thé). Elles ont chacune une finalité différente : la première dissipe notre ignorance et la seconde nourrit notre âme. Quand à la cérémonie du thé, c’est une des expressions culturelles du Japon, il en existe beaucoup d’autres beaucoup plus agitées et bruyantes! Quand à moi, je pense que pour vivre bien, il faut se tenir aussi loin que possible des phénomènes de mode dont le minimalisme et l’essentialisme font tous deux partis. Ce n’est fondamentalement rien d’autre que du psychobabble à destination d’un public de nantis qui se regardent le nombril.

[@x9872]

每個人都有自己的價值觀跟快樂的生活方式 沒有所謂的對錯 選擇到適合自己的才是最好的～～～～

[@fiddlersthree8463]

You have inspired me to declutter. There are some things that I just cannot part with, however. For example, a pair of red suede gloves. I've never worn them and probably never will, but to me they are beautiful and I love to see them in the glove drawer. They are like a hidden gem that I see only occasionally.

[@lena1122]

❤the way you brushed your cat’s face!! So sweet!! Lovely channel 👏🥰

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much 🤗