MINIMALISM FOR BEGINNERS » 5 Most common struggles + How to do it right

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for watching this video, I’m so excited to announce that the Simple Happy Zen online course is now open for registration! ✨🌱 simplehappyzen.teachable.com/p/in-love-with-your-life The course is called “In Love With Your Life | 20 Weeks to simplify your life and amplify your happiness”. This program is the most in-depth and valuable content I’ve created so far. It’s a great help for anyone who wants to simplify their life and create more of what they love. I am beyond excited , join me and click the link to sign-up or get more info. Much love, Vera

[@Cocobird5]

That was very helpful. I have started to being with a bookcase that is in my kitchen. I am having the Veterans pick up on Thursday, so my goal is to do one bag a day. Having more space in my kitchen will be very useful. This is probably extreme, but my first marriage ended when my ex told me I had no right to think differently from other people. It was clear that we just didn't belong together.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much for sharing Sue, and congrats on your work in the kitchen!! Actually I think that's not extreme at all, and a very bold and brave move on your part. If you cannot think for yourself, there's no room to grow and learn and develop. :)

[@ahoardersheart]

Oh this video is perfect!! I’m a hoarder trying to clean out my hoarded house and minimalism looks so peaceful & tranquil 💞

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you, glad it's helpful for you :)

[@missmatch9058]

Hello, my dear! Of course I find you here! Haha! 😄 And I completely agree.... minimalism seems like a peaceful dream to me.

[@tat2dfreak3]

How are you doing? Have you succeeded in cleaning up the hoarding? I'm struggling, been struggling for a few years. I'm so overwhelmed

[@malous709]

My decluttering process has been slow. I am now mindful of what I buy. Last week, I took out a few clothes to wear for fall and winter. The others were given away for donation and I have a purse I gave to my friend on her birthday in May.☺️ The clothes that “no longer sparks joy” I think this is a Marie Kondo term. My son told me about this “ mother if it no longer spark joy, you don’t have to keep it”. My daughter has always been mindful thinking of what the impact in environment. Living with less surprisingly did not lessen my happiness. My furnitures have always been just what we need in the home. I find it relaxing going home after work and I see free spaces. Sending love and light Vera. Thank you as always ❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Janine and I loved reading your comment. 🤗🌺🌱

[@anotheramy71]

I've recently discovered your channel and just want to say I'm so impressed by the depth of information you're sharing as well as the quality of your videos. Everything is very well-written and presented in a forthright, non-threatening way. Thank you!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Wow thank you, that's amazing, it means a lot 🤗🌱🌷

[@NenaLavonne]

Another Amy yes! Totally agree!

[@A222Z]

I've stopped guessing in the gift-giving department.. depending on the person, I've gone to cash, gift cards, or their 'wish list' on Amazon or some other store.. also, movie tickets or zoo passes, etc are great gifts. 🎁 getting creative in the presentation of your gift to them is also happily received.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

thanks for sharing! :) Yes I also love to get creative with the presentation

[@robertall.dawson2002]

I think it's important to end the way we started in this world, we had just about everything, but at the same time we had absolutely nothing, but at the same time was very very happy, but too very young in this world to realize it.

[@PrincessofErised]

Wow, that is so true. I cannot remember a single thing I ever gave anyone. Except for the year I made fancy bread and jam to give at Christmas which was a HUGE hit. What a revelation. If I cannot remember, then you can bet that no one else does either. They do not even remember that they gave you some hideous purse you held on to because they might have hurt feelings if you donated it to some other unfortunate recipient. Of course not. It was the giving and the receiving that was important. So it fulfilled its purpose and can give it away guilt-free.

[@tinalemna7998]

The tips on how to deal with loved ones who aren’t minimalists was very helpful. My husband understands but doesn’t want to minimize his things and my sister thinks I’m crazy for living like this. I love your comment you do you, we only have one life. 💗

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks Tina! Yes, you do you, and no one can do you as well as you 🤗💕 Enjoy your weekend

[@NenaLavonne]

I love this channel! I’m not even sure I could call myself a minimalist, but the concepts and ideas are still very useful to me, and I really gain insight from your beautiful content. There is such a wonderful sense of calmness and simplicity that is so appealing and lovely! You inspire me! 😊✨✨✨

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's so sweet Nena, thank you 😘🌺🍵

[@feylights166]

Same! I can't call myself a minimalist (I'm not a hoarder, though, either), but I have learned some valuable tips :)

[@Blessedbears]

I’m so overwhelmed! I need rest and then plan to start back. Pregnant with baby #9 .. we have maximum children and I want minimal stuff! It’s a journey! I’m so blessed because my family is all on board. With soon to be eleven people I can’t rid us of everything but my gosh I have made progress. We cleaned out the garage and probably have thirty contractor sized bags of trash! Even things like getting rid of excess baby blankets. It’s all silly the things we have kept. Right now, I am working on our clothing! Challenges are my boys tear up their jeans so easily! So I have more jeans for them and am trying to remember to only put on the ones with holes already before they will be rough... lol Great advice you have given!!! I am in the overwhelmed phase! It will work out!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing your story and congrats on all the progress you've already made! :)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

What are some things that you’ve struggled with or that you find challenging on your minimalism journey? Let’s discuss them! p.s. I realize another common challenge can be living in a minimalist home with (small) kids. Since I don’t have kids myself and I don’t have a lot of experience with them, it didn’t feel right for me to give extensive advice about that. But I know there’s a ton of information about keeping your home clutterfree with kids in the house to find on KZbin. So definitely check that out if this is something you’re struggling with!

[@ElBoyoElectronico]

That is very true! I have two very small children and they bring the most amount of joy and gratitude but also the most amount of stress and chaos into my life.

[@JodieC26]

A great resource is the book "clutter free with kids" by Joshua Becker.

[@ElBoyoElectronico]

@@JodieC26 Yeah, I read some parts and while it is a really good book, he talks about having kids that are older. When they they are as young as mine (0,5y boy and 2,5y girl) the kids go through so many phases so quickly and every phase needs different things (hygiene, transportation, safety, etc.). When they reach a certain age handling clutter will get easier, because you don't need as many things to take care of them. I really look forward to that :)

[@JodieC26]

@@ElBoyoElectronico that is true and I found the same thing when I read it. I also have a 5 month old and a 3 year old. The large baby items I have just accepted, that for the next year or so, they will be around. I try to keep the number of clothes and toys to a minimum.

[@wewemcrhyne]

I have enough things of my own to declutter that I can continue to work on this for a long time. But as I’ve decluttered my own clothing, I talked to my husband about what I’m doing. We had a rummage sale at my church and my husband went through his clothing and got rid of many things on his own. We have a long way to go, but it’s better to have started down this road and have fewer items than it is to never begin.

[@bradcox2579]

If someone starts getting weirdly aggressive towards me in a conversation when I bring up the fact that I am a Zen Buddhist who just happens to be a minimalist...I can usually end that persons verbal assault on me pretty quick just by saying that it is all a Feng Shui thing. Since most people have no concept of what that term even means...I get silence (crickets chirping). A person who actually knows what Feng Shui is all about or practices it, will not have a problem understanding minimalistic living. Buddhist and Taoist both have a very good understanding of minimalism. We can definitely relate.

[@KR-kv5dv]

Oh Vera, I totally love this video!. I especially appreciate the part you added about the opinions of others. It is so true, not only with minimalizing, but in life in general, how others can start giving their opinions and criticisms when they feel threatened by something someone else might so innocently be doing. Thank you for the great tips and encouragement.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So glad you loved the video Katie, thank you so much! :D

[@ErikaK]

It's choosing to live intentionally. People may not understand you but focus on yourself and on doing more of what makes you happy, be true to who you are and don't pay attention to what people say or do :) Sending love ♡♡♡

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Well said :) Thanks Erika! Have a lovely weekend

[@ErikaK]

@@SimpleHappyZen ♡♡♡ you too !!!

[@MarielaMerino]

my partner is not a minimalist but my decluttering and change in my lifestyle has inspired him to want to learn and declutter on his own! I never pushed minimalism onto him and he on his own started to become interested in it. great video as always Vera :)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's amazing, and a great example of how positive change can inspire people :)

[@non-monogamousmark]

It also comes down to letting go of trying to influence and control any other human being and focus only on being intionally in charge of one, and only one, adult human being on the planet; you! When I focused solely on myself I was amazed at how many excuses I no longer had.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing! In the end, the only one who's actions we can control is ourself :)

[@jennaaustin2846]

Minimalism is definitely a spectrum 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes! :)

[@emmaculate6177]

I love that you talked about your struggle with your stuffed animals. I do the same thing with uncertain items, so it makes me feel good knowing it’s okay to do that haha.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha yes it's absolutely okay! 😄✌🌱

[@pinklady3885]

Thank you for motivating me. When i first heard about your way of thinking, I identified with all you said. Then I realised that life had got in the way and I hadn't followed through. I'm now in the mist of removing so much useless stuff. I find that somethings I'm unsure of keeping, if I leave off, then go back the following day... it becomes so clear that I should rid myself. I already have a feeling of progress and well being. 👍

[@Michelle-qd9gm]

My family like to declutter quick and get things out of the house. Then these no if or whys I do think we like declutting a lot cause we like a tidy house all the time we send it all to charity then someone else can have the enjoyment that we have out of our things I don’t think you ever get to a point that you do stop declutting if you have a family they will always be stuff to get rid of it’s good when it’s done and out though it’s a case of keeping on top of it. We keep a basket on top of our landing and if you don’t want something put it in there simple when it’s full of it goes it’s better than nagging the kids if they’ve got anything to get rid of I’ve found it that the easy way of doing it. Whoever on a journey good luck to everyone it’s not easy but so worth it in the end xxx

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing Michelle, I especially like your idea of the basket where everyone can put things to give to charity

[@dlxinfinite7098]

Im ok with my purchases. "Unintentional" minimalism is easy when you dont earn much. Your aura is so chill. It radiates thruout the video.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you :)

[@Jennifer-nz2ss]

I really loved this video. It helped me realize I'm actually both of those people. Sometimes I say things to people;sometimes they say things to me. But, I'm still gonna be me no matter what anyone says. This has been a real struggle for me. I have to start over alot. Moving, jobs and almost everything. Oh, and 2 exhusbands. You see I have a child with special needs who a great human being but there are alot of people in this world that think differently. So I discarded them. I've always been tidy/clean but when they were very young I let them have what I could afford. Now that they are 26 and 27yr I'm back to myself. I see lots on u-tube and wish i declutter more when they were young. Anyway, we declutter regularly now. My daughter lives with me and "organises" quite a bit! 👍 I live your videos but this one hit a chord💜

[@Steph722NY]

The last one hits hard. Especially having friends who like shopping for unnecessary things. Sometimes when I go out I just tell them I have no money instead of telling them I don't want to bring random items into my life. :(

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hey there Stephany, I totally understand! I don't have all the details of course, but it could be something to think about to talk with your friends about it, and let them know why you don't want to buy unnecessary things. Maybe explain you like windowshopping with them, without feeling the need to buy anything for yourself. :) Good luck!!

[@Julie-ok5fr]

This is my most favorite video so far!! I loved all of the points here and especially LOVE what you said about "decluttering gifts." I have followed your exact advice, am a better girl for it, and have no guilt now. Thank You😊🌷You have so much wisdom and I am so happy to be benefiting from it:) Thank you for letting us know that even if we might feel "weird," we are not really...weird. But can rejoice in ourselves and be proud of our minimalist decisions🌷 Also, I love the whole design of how you design your videos as they are not only packed full of content presented in an organized way, but they are beautiful and pleasant to watch.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Julie, that really means a lot to me 🤗💕🌺

[@cathylynnpietranton]

Hi Vera thank you. I've been a minimalist for 2 years now. I'm doing better well on my journey but I always enjoy watching your videos because they are uplifting and inspiring.❤

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So glad to hear it, it's exactly how I want my videos to be :)

[@deborahbedford1459]

Loving all your videos...they really hit home. This year has been our transformation year. We sold our 4,000 sq ft home and have been living in a 650 sq ft apartment-which was a challenge. We are having a house built in a city 7 hours away. I got tired of deciding what to bring with us and what to donate/throw away. I wish I had done more...but watching your videos have motivated me to get rid of all the stuff that is dragging me down. Thanks so much!!!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I'm so glad my videos have been helpful for you in your decluttering and moving process. Good luck with everything and remember to focus on the small daily steps, rather than the big bulk :)

[@callalilly63]

Great way to show that you don't have to be extreme to be a minimalist. Love your videos.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yay, thank you! :)

[@taylorwhaley9901]

This video is perfect! I have been on this journey for a while to de-clutter and get rid of stuff I'm on a journey of getting out of debt and a lot of people don't understand that. I still live at home and my family is not on the same journey as me which is totally but there are times I get stuck in that trap of giving in. I'm working on continue to say what I mean and mean what I say.

[@kbdefay]

The best teacher is a good example!

[@meenaximani9471]

Hi , wow video , I liked it very much, its true , when your family members are not supporting the concept of minimalism, As I have told you earlier my house is full of unnecessary things, gifts , books, clothes, bags, decoration pieces n lot more , m trying my level best to decluttering, but the process seems unending. My family keep on purchasing new things. Sometimes I feel disappointed.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing your experiences. Think of it this way: what would it have been like if you haven't tried at all? The situation would probably be very different from what it's like now. So your efforts are definitely making a difference!

[@meenaximani9471]

@@SimpleHappyZen good answer, Vera thank you, you are very positive thinker, inspired me a lot.

[@donnav]

Thank you for this video! As always very informative and helpful. I also have a “maximalist” husband and son. I haven’t always been very good at communicating my reasons for and feelings about minimizing which definitely has not helped. I am working on being more understanding of their needs and feelings as well as better communication. I love your channel.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Donna 🤗⭐🌿 Glad the video was helpful. Good communication is not always the easiest but really important. 😊

[@npigwnl]

Your sweater reminds me of a zen garden 🧘🏼‍♀️😄

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha I hadn't thought of that but you're right :D Maybe that's why I picked it out haha

[@ablueslenz]

Vera, I’ve been fortunate to not have to suffer the opinions of others when it comes to my minimalist journey. However, my own thoughts about my journey get me in trouble.🥺 My mom always said that I am my own worst enemy. I now understand more than ever what she meant by that as I try to let go of stuff. I’m a work in progress, but I’m enjoying the journey. Thanks for the reminders.💚

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah yes it seems there's always one of two sides where people can find themselves. :) If you're able to enjoy your journey while working through your challenges, that's amazing and you're doing an awesome job 👊

[@aliceaustin3603]

I enjoyed this video. Yes, I haven't been able to get my husband on board. However, he is more willing to have me part with quite a bit of stuff in the house that was in his family or ours that we just have been storing in the basement collecting dust and space. It feels so nice to see more empty places in the house (and easier to clean!). Thank you for your wisdom!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I love that, thanks for sharing Alice! Yes sometimes it takes people some time but when they see how nice it can be and how much space it provides, how much cleaning time it saves, etc, they are more willing to jump on board :)

[@hemant0088]

Hi Zen, I would like to add up here. You have mentioned one good thing here which is, we should not compare whether he/she is extreme minimalist or maximalist with ourselves. Everyone has there own choices. We must understand and appreciate :) Also, the way you explain with pretty smile :) its amazing. We are always happy to see you :) :) keep up :)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much, I appreciate it! :D

[@hemant0088]

@@SimpleHappyZen You are most welcome :) :)

[@alisonlee4723]

I can hardly believe how much I have learnt from you Vera, this is another brilliant thought provoking video xx

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's such an amazing compliment, thank you Alison! :)

[@tg3609]

I look forward to your ideas and inspiration every Saturday. Thanks so much for your calming influence in this busy world! 🌸💕

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much, that means a lot 🤗🌷🌱

[@nataliele6630]

Hi Vera Thank you for your Chanel. I am a very new of minimalism but your thoughts and ideas help me a lot in the process finding what I really need to do. I start appreciating things I currently have more and successfully stop myself buying things compulsively by asking myself “Do I really needed or just wanted “ and be able to walk away either to think about it and decide later or not buying at all . I am still working on organizing my life by de- clustering and will continue supporting your Chanel . Take care Thank you

[@NilDreams]

Love your videos! They are so positive and non judgmental 😊👍

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's great to hear :D Thanks so much!

[@monique.110]

Thank you so much!!!! All these tips are so helpful and inspiring. Saving to my minimalism playlist!!!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So glad to hear it Monique, thank you :D

[@summermarge]

Glad to have found this channel! Just started to live minimally this year yet can’t get rid of impulse buying :( Speaking aside, I like your content and the way you deliver it. Indeed it’s pure zen. Love from 日本🇯🇵😉

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much! So glad you find the videos helpful :) I'm going to make a video about impulse spending soon I think...

[@funnygirl3444]

Love your videos! They always make me feel better about myself and r always motivating!!❤️❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So happy to hear that, thanks Funny Girl :)

[@salinastraightedge]

12:12 - 14:08 also applies to being childfree or gay... or any other "alternative" lifestyle. That feels empowering to me. Like, "I'm doing me so well you feel threatened... and that's your problem, not mine. 😌"

[@theresew9910]

Hi Vera love the advice here especially the you do you! And also the minimalist spectrum such a great way of looking at things, I really look forward to your videos your wisdom and calmness is infectious best wishes as always ❤️ the de cluttering is coming along nicely albeit at my pace all thanks to you 😀

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Therese that's amazing! :) And certainly not thanks to me, but thanks to you!! 😉

[@purronnaspaw]

I so enjoy your videos. You're very wise and helpful. Thank you so much💜

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much!! :)

[@carmenm.4091]

Your advice is so useful! Love your no nonsense approach! 👍🏼♥️ Practice makes BETTER, not perfect, perfection is a myth 😄

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Carmen! :D

[@feylights166]

I'll never be a minimalist when it comes to books and manga lol (though, thanks to the Konmari method, I have been able to better go through my collection periodically, but I will always buy more lol), but I have been able to declutter other things that I didn't think I would (maybe I can become a "mild minimalist"). For example, I had a collection of a bout 18 dolls on top of one of my bookcases, all of which I had had since childhood. They are all beautiful dolls, but...I realized they had just been sitting up there for years, collecting dust. So, the other day, I took them all down, held each one, and was able to bring my collection from 18 down to 6. I plan to sell them, but if that doesn't work, I will donate.

[@MyLevel10Life]

Great video! Your channel is so peaceful! :)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much :D

[@elenig7187]

Great analysis and clear points of view. Very useful tips about how to deal with others: instead of sharing gifts to share experiences or time together, that is so beautiful and human !

[@likeargamanflaming940]

4:41gorgeous and peaceful. Calming

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you :D

[@ChrisSaenz13]

Very helpful ideas!!! I struggle with photos & sentimental items from my relatives & I have had to concentrate on other areas for now. Eventually I will be ready to find solutions for the excess photos & other old things I can't seem to part with. I know I've made huge strides with clothing & books ... 2 categories that used to be my worst areas!!! Loving your videos - you're very inspiring & uplifting!!!!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's amazing, a great example of what I was talking about. Usually there's still lots of room for improvement in other rooms or categories. And every time you declutter something, you gain experience. So that when you finally do come to the harder items, you might know what you want to do with them. Perhaps these items could be digitalized?

[@vandanad3786]

Loved the way u present problems n solutions...every time I see minimalism vedio,I just wanna through everything out from my house to feel that emptiness...but I knw its not easy specially when u r habitual vd so many things around u.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha yes I know the feeling :) Glad my videos help to inspire you! :)

[@MissCupcakeslover]

14 min?? What a treat 😍

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha :D

[@jt7129]

Oh! THANK YOU!! 💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome :)

[@hebaplanet5146]

OMG u know what my room exactly look like the rush hour in the most overcrowded place in z world.... every time I put things in place it is just one week it becomes upside down.. I will try minimalism New subscriber .. I'll follow ur tips ..waiting 4 results. ♥♥♥ from untidy heba planet

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Welcome to the channel! :)

[@lindam7518]

Very good video . Especially the end "you do you". It took me awhile to get to the regifting but i finely started doing that years ago. Then I would free myself to spend money and buy something i actually was wanting and would use. So freeing. I couldn't do the extreme minimal and just have everything in a backpack but that's not the type life i live either. Nice example of different background for different taste. i personally love the warmth of the wood look. Glad to hear you decided to wait on you're stuffed animals . I think you'll know when it's the right time and place for each piece to go. Anyway good job.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Linda, I appreciate it :) And great job with the regifting!!

[@YuniorGamboa]

Thanks you for you words Downloaded this video so I can always watch it when I feel down I Hope you have a great day

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So glad the video is helpful for you, thanks for watching and commenting!! :)

[@patriciagarrett4243]

I have the worst time giving up things, especially when several months down the road I go to look for the article of clothing or whatever only to realize I gave it away.

[@evelinamustonen366]

I donated my stuffed animals to a local kindergarten, and not having any regression. 🧘🏻‍♀️😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's great! Here I found that places like that really don't take any stuffed animals or used toys...

[@coleslawadams]

Great video! Very supportive and pragmatic. It was so interesting to see the different creative ways we can use minimalism. Can you consider a series where you show examples of strict minimalism (Pinterist LOL) and then some more easy to achieve ahivements levels. For example, many of us see studio photography sets, and think that it's showing a real living space. It sets up a steep expectation. We'd love to see some more relaistic and holistic interpretations- that way we separate the minimalist Movement from the Minimalist Trend. Just an idea ;) Thanks for making minimalism videos. :)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Good idea Shaun!

[@rebeccaarzola3368]

Excellent video. Also why declutter those cute stuffed animals? They're adorable and make you happy. It actually makes me smile when I see them in the videos. :) Bless your heart.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Rebecca! :) Yes for now I'll keep them around until I'm really sure, and then I have many good options to make sure they will go to someone who can enjoy them

[@nancylanderson8012]

This was very helpful, thank you.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome Gerry :)

[@susansmith4784]

I've watched several of your videos, they're great, and it gave me incentive to try to organise one space. I pulled everything out but had an 'avalanche effect', as one problem led to another and it got messy and was very time consuming. Day two 'operation: that space is getting sorted' tomorrow 😥

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing Susan! Gosh, yes that can happen. Decluttering often gets messier before it gets organized, especially in the beginning. Try not to take out too much at once, preferably no more than you go sort through in one sitting. Otherwise it can get overwhelming :) Don't worry, it'll be alright, you'll get it sorted! :) Don't sweat it too much if things get a bit messy first. Let me know how it goes!

[@susansmith4784]

@@SimpleHappyZen thank you, I'll certainly not pull out everything again, I'll come at it from the front! It's slow work isn't it? Just like archeology! When you have other things to do it's so frustrating. Thanks again 😘

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha yes, I can imagine, patience is not my talent haha. Just try to focus on the progress you're making, and not think too much about the end goal 😄✌🏻

[@susansmith4784]

@@SimpleHappyZen thank you. Day three 'operation: that space is getting sorted' tomorrow 😥

[@neelsha11]

Good tips VEERA. Loved the end quote

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you Neelsha! 🤗🌷🌸

[@bellellidovlogs]

❤️❤️❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

🤗

[@amore_93]

New subscriber and already loving your videos

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hey there, welcome to the channel! 🤗🌸

[@lax2469]

Thank you as always

[@Dualice]

I really relate in the last part...I'm part of the group the community and I get critics of that kind every time, even from close friends, sometimes it really hurts! How do you real with that?

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing Dualice, yes I can imagine that's hurtful. I don't have all the details but of course, if people don't treat you kindly or respectfully, you can always let them know they are being hurtful. Talk to them about their comments and how they make you feel, and how you would like them to treat you instead. You're living your life in a way that you want to, and if that's not accepted, then you can always talk to them. You have a right to make your own decisions and feel good about them.

[@Dualice]

@@SimpleHappyZen I'll try my best 😣

[@wshaynann]

Where did you get your necklace?

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Actually it was hand-made from a small, local Dutch shop. I asked my boyfriend for it for my birthday, because I wanted a necklace with a green aventurine stone. It also has a small feather which I really love so it's perfect for me :)

[@smontone]

Could you address decluttering gifts that someone has made? It’s so hard to figure out what to do with handmade gifts that are not your style. It seems like it would really hurt the creator that you don’t like what they made especially for you.

[@NessaSylvia]

Was your boyfriend on board with you right off the bat? Or was he persuaded/inspired by you starting your minimalist journey? How do the 2 of you find agreement/work together on minimizing?

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Actually, we were both interested in minimalism and started our journey together. :)

[@Mrs_Yu]

I agree 💯%

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha thank you Nurika!

[@Mrs_Yu]

Thank you so much for replying my comments. I'm so excited.

[@tinahindi]

Ok, you mention stuff animals. I have so many I was only planning on keeping few but don’t know what to with the rest. What suggestions did you receive?

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I talked about stuffed animals and showed them in this video, you can find really great suggestions in the comments of this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6PHpaKYjqZ0iLs

[@melmckane2913]

If you still have them, you can see if a local toy drive will take them. If not, list them for free on kijij or fb. If a person is willing to pick them up they truly will enjoy them. I remember loving hand me down toys as a child, I remember every one I got, even though they have all been passed along.

[@janellehamill6266]

It’s funny I always get candles from friends why ?. I don’t even like them but I do however love the smell of them and that is why I keep them the smell I never light them I need to let the go 😉

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha yes sometimes we can keep getting the same gifts from people because they think we like it. Of course, it's super sweet of them to think of you and give you a gift. Perhaps let them know some time that you have enough candles to last you a couple of years :D

[@zenabumblebee9738]

Maybe they give you candles because they know you are a minimalist and this is a gift that will declutter itself as it burns away.

[@annlavine3576]

where is that beach with waves coming from 2 directions?

[@arlenebulldis6477]

After my husband died, I sold my house and everything in it! I can fit everything I own into 2 suitcases. The problem is, that urge to shop is still there. How do you get rid of that feeling?

[@carolc2574]

Arlene Bulldis it is a change of perspective. I have learned to enjoy beautiful things in the shops but not taking them home. Sometimes I look at something and even hold it, but then let go thinking “I don’t need this”. My urge to look at goods at shops has evolved to an urge to do things like have a coffe at a beautiful café, going to the theatre or cinema, attending festivities, having an ice cream in the summer... small experiences instead of small purchases

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's really great advice Carol :)

[@amandamulvaney8437]

Another option for dealing with the need to shop is to channel the shopping urge into buying gifts that would be useful to other people. Books for kids in your life, fun and use-up-able things like unique teas or snacks, etc. for yourself and others. In this way you can scratch the itch without it resulting in excess accumulation. It's a trick that works for me, may or may not work for you :) though I'm not nearly as minimalist as only having two suitcases worth of belongings! Wow! What freedom!

[@anamartinez8340]

Love your necklace can you tell me from where or what exactly is it. I absolutely love it. Love your videos

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks Ana! :) It's a handmade necklace my boyfriend gave me for my birthday. It's a green aventurine stone. I also show it in my jewerly declutter video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gH6mpJd-eZaGpJI

[@anamartinez8340]

Simple Happy Zen thank you, it’s beautiful. I have been watching your videos on my days off from work. Love them. Love the inspiration you give me to reach my goals. Thank you

[@deercreekhomesteading9468]

Great video we love you st Deercreek homesteading

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much :)

[@2009ashmi]

Great vid Vera!! I have a question, what tips would you give someone like me who has a chronic illness and is trying to minimalize but it's hard cos there are not many days a month that I have the extra energy to do decluttering. Sometimes it's all I can do to work, run errands and do my normal chores. Any advice? I want my house cleared and I get frustrated with myself . Thx honey. Hugs!!! 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗💚💚💚💚💚

[@polly2900]

connie mcdermott I also have chronic illness , would you be able to hire someone to help you? Maybe a professional organizer or maybe a teenager in your neighborhood who could do the physical stuff?

[@2009ashmi]

@@polly2900 aww I wish I could, but I can't afford it at the moment, but thanks so much. 😊😊😊😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hi Connie! So sorry to hear about your chronic illness, I imagine it can be challenging at times. Accepting your own body and its limitations is something I understand can be frustrating at times. Getting frustrated with yourself is not that helpful of course, and you certainly don't deserve it. When you're trying your best, that's really all you can do. And pushing yourself to the point of exhaustion will probably only backfire later. I actually think you're doing an amazing job if you're trying to make small changes whenever and wherever possible, and also taking your rest when you need it. Like Polly said, perhaps there is someone who can help you out with the heavy lifting, maybe a neighbor kid or family member, etc. We all have our own journey but I always admire people who make the best out of their situation and just try to make things work with whatever limitations they might have, and also accept and love themselves while doing so. I think that's very strong and admirable.

[@2009ashmi]

@@SimpleHappyZen awww thx so much Vera that's so sweet of you. I always know that others have it worse, so I'm grateful it's fibro and not something else. It does get frustrating at times when I can't do all I want right now. I think I'll just keep doing a little at a time when I can and when my finances allow I'll start hiring people to come in help. Like they say patience is a virtue Lol!! Hugs!!! 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗💚💚💚💚💚💚

[@myrnarenoud3056]

Thank you for a wonderfully informative video! Very helpful!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So glad to hear it, thanks Myrna! 🤗🌱

[@shalinigangadhar8618]

Nice video plz make a complete house tour of urs looking forward

[@Sabiha-30]

Wow

[@luvsmplcty]

🙏💜

[@SimpleHappyZen]

🤗🌱

[@kumaripriya708]

.