More Stuff Won’t Make You More Complete

Highlight from episode 401. Watch full episodes of The Minimalists Private Podcast: / theminimalists
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#TheMinimalists

[@TheMinimalists]

What’s one thing you’ve purchased to impress other people?

[@jambonzurirafiki]

I think there is huge value in the ability to choose correctly when you purchase. I have a friend who by his nature is resourceful, does not have a lot of income but who, through careful thought of each purchase really values what he does have and looks after it. He is an organised person and neat.

[@ginamarie5575]

Nothing. Lol never needed to show off or impress anyone . Everything I buy isn’t fancy or expensive. I thrift for most things I need or want .

[@Bessie66]

Rescued greyhounds - you don’t have to pay hundreds for “new” pedigree dogs

[@sophiabarnes5086]

A luxury car. It was beautiful and comfortable but after a few door dings i realized its just a car, don't get attached.

[@videohistorysnippets8963]

I absolutely love my English Premiership team West Ham, and I bought a West Ham jersey which I’ve never worn out in public or ever, I just love the club and I have no need to broadcast it to all, even beside the fact that I’m mentioning it here!! But it’s just something for me only, a treasure.

[@lindacurtis7267]

My new favorite quote “what other people think of me is not my business.”

[@user-qr7ee2cp4y]

More money, less problems... more stuff, more problems...

[@ronnyb9416]

I'm 63, and what these guy's talk about is 100% correct. My advice is: Buy experiences and not things. If you do buy a "thing", be sure it is really needed by you and is not a show off item.

[@UCanCallMeJesus1]

This reminds my of a store in my town that my mom worked for, The owner lives here, so he comes into the store all the time. But you would never know this guy is a millionaire who owns all these stores unless you already know who he is. He shows up in his old truck and wears jeans and a t-shirt and boots. He just comes in to check on everyone and see how the store is going. He'll talk to the cashiers and help bag while chatting with them and the customers. Most people don't even realize they're talking to the owner. My mom said he's an really great guy. goes to show you that you don't need to buy your self worth. People who are actually successful or happy with themselves don't need to buy status symbols to prove anything.

[@philfrank5601]

Plenty of people hoard away products, out of compulsion. Sneakers, toys, clothes. Nobody may ever see them other than the person, but still may be an issue.

[@nicolesorger178]

Fight Club quote: "The things you own end up owning you." Since finding The Minimalists, this has been in my mind regularly.

[@francosamericanmusings1560]

Same here, more and more

[@johnsterman77]

Actually, it will.

[@LinzyMakesPlans]

This really hit home. All I do when I get paid is shop till its gone. I don't even know why I shop but its distructive. I'm always broke, unhappy and I confused why. Besides the obvious. This really was eye opening to me. Bc its obvious the reality is my "shopping" makes me miserable, but 10 shrinks later, DA, AA (for debt help) no one has been able to "help" me bc I can't seem to put my finger on why I exactly shop too much. The only time I ever stopped was for 3 weeks after watching your documentary on Netflix when it first came out bc I was sickened with myself and consumerism and fast fashion. Anyways, this was like you were talking to ME. I'm buying for other people and what I USED to be able to afford, and can't anymore. I USED to be able to afford name brands, without kids, rent, car, etc. Its just not feasible right now. I truly can't thank you enough for all the videos, podcasts, documentary, that you've given me. Like I said therapists, DA, AA (while don't get me wrong helpful just didnt work me for various reasons), couldnt get through to me, but you did. Just a BIG Thanks! ❤ xo Lindsey Grue

[@Sobermama927]

You’re not alone

[@user-pq8ve1dy5f]

For much of his life, Steve Jobs wore a black mock turtleneck sweater, Levi jeans, and New Balance sneakers. Wherever he went.

[@Lady-Deer]

Refraiming the void. It’s Space. Show up complete. Love it❤

[@kristenm6]

The “if no one sees it, will I still buy it?” thing unfortunately doesn’t apply for me. I buy everything for myself (most of the stuff I buy are things other people think are weird, especially in terms of clothes) and am still materialistic. 😐

[@PolarBlairGaming]

None of my desire for possessions has anything to do with anyone but me. But I have expensive hobbies and interests, so holding myself back from those things is difficult.

[@IoGane]

I am a 35 Italian, i always brought fewer things and not expensive one, not caring to impress others, clothes that are not expensive but fit well, I don't own many stuff compared to others, I owned only used Cars, i prefer to spend some more money on experiences like travelling or eating, funny activities, culture ecc, despite having an everage income I am able to put a majority of what I earn in savings.

[@SaraH-rw5cy]

Man...For my first apartment, I went crazy with Christmas decorations and furniture. I was trying to prove to my ex's family that I DID have something to show for, they themselves also went crazy with decorations on the holidays. I had come from poverty and made it a long way and was initially happy with my minimal apartment, but felt like I had to prove myself to them. After the breakup, I laughed because I didn't really want to keep half of the things I acquired while in that relationship. Some of it is still on my credit card. I was a minimalist at one point! Now that I have minimized those relationships, I am minimizing my belongings. I have started to feel so light and free. If work needs me to move anywhere, I can do that now with little worry. Now, I can also travel the world without those objects (and relationships) weighing me down. And now I am reminding myself that my possessions do NOT define me.

[@CalvinistEeyore]

Oh I was horrible at buying things to impress people back when I was really into Japanese Comics (Manga) the whole culture is one of conspicuous consumption and it was always for people I never really knew in real life. Eventualy I just sold my entire collection to fund a trip to New York City and left the entire community for my own emotional, spiritual, and mental health. I still think one of the best pieces of advice I ever got when it came to devesting a collection is that getting rid of your collection does not negate those memories or cheapen them because those memories are yours you just don't need to hold onto the physical artifact of that memory to mean something still.

[@Spot4art]

How is anyone buying any nonessential product now? This plandemic of poverty by design and consumer credit glut is ridiculous. It should be called ESSENTIALISM or PRACTICAL FRUGALITY. debt free lifestyle is essential.

[@jt.8144]

SO TRUE. SO TRUE.

[@percubit10]

Things are just things.

[@MYZTICTRAVLER]

Little do most people know, that collectable fountain pens is a multimillion dollar business. With some rare fountain pens going for upwards of $3 million dollars 😱😱😱

[@atl3630]

Collectors view them as pieces of art.

[@Crimepaysaskapolitician]

Buying things to impress others is ridiculous.

[@valerierogers9609]

I don't consider others when I buy anything, or on any aspect of life. That concept of impress keeps surfacing, and I don't comprehend that. Whether it be a shirt, fountain pen, or beautiful salad bowl, it's about what suits me.

[@nitemanify]

Excellent reminder for when you’re buying anything, especially when you’re tempted to “keep up with the Jones’”. I always go back to the thought of why buy things you don’t need, with money you don’t have or shouldn’t be spending, to impress people you don’t know or don’t even like.

[@user-vl6xt2rt7p]

Too many people keep up with the joneses and it is disgusting

[@ThisisHardlife]

I bought a 2002 Audi A6 at the age of 17 (mostly to impress) I’m 27 now and I drive a 2000 Chevy Tahoe. The things I spend money on is experiences/traveling and food. I love food. I like to make random acts of kindness like paying for some randoms food at the drive thru. Those things make me happy.

[@user-qw5ls8pw1u]

Video on point loved this! 😊

[@MIKEZG]

i agree

[@kpt.haddoc8438]

I never bought stuff to impress people. For me it was just getting something new, exiting and potentially fun. But this thrill wears of the more often you do that. But getting stuff is not alone expensive, but also time cosuming. You always have to spend time with the new "toy". And now I don't even see the point. It stresses me out to own something I have to take care of. From time to time I again get the desire to buy something new I don't really need and it takes weeks to fight the desire of. But most of the time it works. I don't even have enough time for my friends, why should I have time for this or that.

[@Kewlstickers]

I am a both minimalist and slow living, I’m not a hugger. Good luck with your project 👍

[@karwankarwanko6603]

having furniture and organized home is good for your health and peace of mind. See it as an investment.

[@aaroncharles3014]

not really. for me,it's depression

[@bonesareheavy]

I've always pitched it as this: If I lived on a deserted island I would still drive the car I own, I would still make my bed, and I would still wear the clothes I wear. I'm not doing any of it to impress others. It's just for me. I grew out of showing off in high school.

[@ladyTiger0714]

That’s a great reminder for those who may not have outgrown those high school click behaviors.

[@BBlair-if8tj]

@@ladyTiger0714Cliques are so challenging!

[@ladyTiger0714]

@@BBlair-if8tj they were back in jr high, but as self supporting adult one has to decide what’s best for them, and what makes them feel good about a purchase with intention, as opposed to a sales gimmick or what’s the newest trend. We all go through the same things, at different times in life. You just have to navigate in and through the process. Peace and blessings to you.

[@BBlair-if8tj]

@@ladyTiger0714 I completely agree. Was commenting for spelling. I have been a life coach for 29 years, so it's all about navigating in alignment with our health and values.

[@mrmrlee]

Being a middle aged male is great. I can wear a T shirt, jeans, New Balance sneakers anywhere, any time. If it's bad weather I wear a baseball cap. Heck, I don't even shave every day!

[@steelearmstrong9616]

Love this. This is 100% me. Mid 40’s and last 10 years just don’t care

[@steelearmstrong9616]

Wearing makeup and getting cosmetic surgeries and treatments is to impress others

[@jhansibhavani444]

There are makeup luxury brands which are purely logo . But is trying to look good the same as trying to impress people. If that is the case any sort of grooming is not required.

[@StarEssences]

That is why some are excessively buying: To fill the hole in their heart :(

[@yohanhail1583]

its the silent brag 😞

[@bb_lz9790]

I'm trying to wrap my head around how JFM, a Minimalist, knows all of the (I presume) designer jean names cited between 4:20 and 4:30? 😀 What if one buys something for their Fantasy Self, but not to impress others, is that still for themselves? I've done far too much of that (almost always guitar gear for me) and it doesn't make me happy for very long.

[@user-vl6xt2rt7p]

I only buy what is needed in limited numbers and give away excess items

[@breec3346]

Love that quote from Rachel!!! ❤❤❤ edit: 2:16 best part!!

[@RichardTLDR]

Don’t be a secondhander. The Fountainhead taught me this a long time ago.

[@Bessie66]

Buying the right things doesn’t make you complete either!

[@Tinang7]

¡Exactly! You're right

[@celestekelsey696]

Richard Bach said, "We teach best what we most need to learn" in "The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah." Always love this quote and when I meet someone who is pushing a particular point of view, I immediately consider that this is something they are working on. :)

[@23boyart]

I think trying to impress people with what I have / buy couldn't be further from my thoughts in deciding what to buy. Do I want it, do I need it, can I afford it, means more to me! Will admit to falling for do I want it when I don't need it. Perhaps I should add 'where am I going to store it', my fridge needs elastic sides because I 'think I need it or what will I do if suddenly I need it and can't get to the store!

[@mranthony1886]

Fountain pens are nice

[@byN91]

This is so timely. Again, contemplating to buy new shoes 😅 thank u guys!

[@stuartlittle0423]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@miriammyrsiades7932]

“He obviously didn’t leave the house today trying to impress anybody” 😅😂🤣

[@puidemare2337]

My friend, who lives in Paris, came to a bunch of inheritance from her father. She has nice things but mostly she uses that money for traveling and helping her friends, like allowing them to use her apartment, things like that. I remember her saying one time in midst of a conversation we were having. She was gonna be traveling to Africa and she said why would I wear my Cartier bracelet or some other name brand item(purse, clothes etc.), no one in Africa knows the significance or value.

[@Dil.Careem]

Beyond Materialism! This video speaks truth that resonates deeply! Embrace the powerful message that more stuff won't fill the void; it's the moments that truly complete us! Let's shift our focus from material possessions to experiences, love, and connections. Discover the joy of simplicity and find fulfillment in the little things that matter most. It's a journey of self-discovery and embracing what truly enriches our lives! Let's break free from the consumerist trap and embrace the essence of true contentment!

[@Veyatie1968]

I totally only upgrade my apple products when they get to slow for tech updates or can no longer be updated. I am not a keeping up with the Jones's. I also like name brand stuff, but not the flaunt the logo, but for quality when I can because many times those garments last longer. 🙂

[@deericcio3379]

I guess cause I’m old , I never think of any one when I buy something ……? I kinda don’t even get why anyone would buy things for any purpose but that you need it ..

[@mpargaien]

My purchases are always strictly as per my needs and not as per greed to impress someone or to exhibit hence people are never on my radar.

[@StarEssences]

The Inner Fold tends to follow the trends. I have always made my own choices (which are different from the TRENDS) since I was a young girl. I am persecuted for doing so and the wealthier classes continue to DE-VALUE much of humanity that is BELOW their status of wealth and types of materialism; Here is my final message to the ruling BEEHIVE; You are of your FATHER, the DEVIL; He is a liar and a murderer from the beginning and he will be a Liar and a Murderer to the END. The Inner Fold's Husbandry is satanic :(

[@conniepleasantnails]

Great dialog ❤

[@cabayern9416]

Oh yes my coworkers are always bragging about their vehicles, vacations, and luxury handbags.

[@cooporlando]

Are our words possessions? Is silence space that we feel compelled to fill? What if the idea is expressed in 1/100th of the time?

[@SherrySherry]

👌😌👌✨🎉

[@miriammyrsiades7932]

The title of this video stabbed me in the chest but it was a great awakening 😅

[@juanjosesegura4585]

Nice to see another fountain pen fellow :)

[@sanllylizalda8622]

Im into the process, but it is not easy when we have a partner who wants to buy garbage stuff. I say garbage because if you don't use it, you don't need it. My garage and office are places where I am still working hard.

[@TheHoriginal]

Pajamas lol 😂. I see people at the gym (granted they’re teens ) playing Pickleball in their PJs

[@patrickkillabrew6207]

So you can literally justify any purchase by telling yourself that you’ll really enjoy it. Got it. Doesn’t sound like minimalism to me though. :-)

[@andrekeulemans473]

Many people have written great ideas behind envelopes, cigarette boxes, (Thank Goodness I don't smoke,) or toilet paper.

[@catmandoo3735]

I have a friend who says she's not materialistic yet she just got back from an Alaskan cruise at which time she bought an $8K diamond bracelet. Where would you even wear something like that living in Tucson, AZ, without being worried about having it stolen. That bracelet is 2/5ths of my yearly pension from the state.

[@carloscanenguez835]

True. But also less stuff wont make you complete

[@ninaisaac4890]

G'day from freezing cold Sydney Australia 🌏🦘

[@aenigmatica8]

I mean to be fair I’m not sure I would wear any clothes if others didn’t see them. 😂 I do think it’s important to let the way others perceive your clothes inform your shopping. When I go to work, I want to be taken seriously, etc.

[@DCB938]

I thought this was an odd question. I have never bought anything to impress others. I buy things because I like them not in hope others like them. Whatever I purchase has to please me not others.

[@jambonzurirafiki]

Hi, I have just discovered your channel and I am very grateful. I want to subscribe to patreon but my 2015 Apple Mac browser does not work with it! Anyway, I will find a way and maybe I will have to upgrade to a later second-hand mini Mac that supports the latest browsers. In the meantime, I wanted to ask you, I am trying to declutter but because I have a lot of vintage items it is even more difficult because my brain tells me they are irreplaceable because they are vintage and not made any more or vintage books are going out of print so they are of great value. Have you addressed this question on a previous podcast please. Thank you. Kirsty

[@mrmrlee]

My model trains I enjoy would definitely not impress anyone but myself.

[@scottboyce]

Agree with the title, but the discussion implies that if you purchase it only for yourself, it's justified. I disagree with that for two main reasons: First, I agree we shouldn't buy things to impress others (because we want their praise or even envy) but it's also unhealthy to buy things so you can tell yourself an internal story about how you compare to others. The more foundational question is: "Do I think this purchase will help me feel better about myself compared to others?" or more simply, "Would I still want this thing if everyone else had it too?" Even if it's only in your own head, comparison is an unhealthy source of value or esteem. Second, perceived intrinsic value alone isn't sufficient justification to buy something. You might be taken in by a company's slick marketing, and think you need and want something when you don't, to the point the the marketing can twist and warp your views so you care about the values or "causes" they are selling (which might not even be supported by your purchase). That might be fine if their messaging is true, but it often is not. Do you want a brand to dictate your values and causes, or do you want to decide them yourself? It's not just the Gucci-type brands that people fall for. So much of comparison and sharing is on social media, this dynamic has largely shifted to Instagram-focused brands that market their wares to "followers" who get the good feels by "curating" their style, clothes, etc. right into the marketing molds they see in their feed. This also applies to #2 above-- followers buy to imitate the "aesthetic" of their favorite brands. But if you ask them, their preferred style/aesthetic, is, of course, their own.

[@mr.bnatural3700]

Playing this at .75 speed you guys sound so stoned, but profound.

[@torijones9992]

😂😂😂

[@haziqq]

I was about to buy a new tv and this video slip into my recommendation 😂 if no one sees this purchase would I still buy it? Yes. I'm going to proceed now.

[@mikewinston8709]

People need ‘things’ to make up for a lack of self confidence. It’s as simple as that.

[@rationalthinker9181]

You will spend yourself poor competing with others. When you conquer your materialistic urges you are free. I own what I need end of story now my challenge is to decrease the amount of things I do for recreation.

[@azeemhoosain4004]

What would one do with old photos we you don't know who the people are also with tons of photos

[@astridaguilar7343]

ja la risa xd no entiendo q dicen pero buena voz papus

[@kristinaklute7817]

♥️♥️♥️

[@amonralice]

It's always hilarious to me when people think you wear the same plain and simple outfit (to their faux wisdom), when instead nobody should judge anyone.

[@KatieWynn97]

I don’t think I’ve purchased anything to impress other ppl it just be like a conversation piece sometimes just show them and it not like I’m trying to impress it just an object for awhile and then ill end up getting rid of it. Like a “show and tell” and not an impress and tell. I like the ink joy triangle shaped pens helps my fingers. 😅

[@skyscraperfan]

I never understood why people spend money they don't have on things they don't need just to impress people they don't like. Even at young age at school I already wondered why the other kids spent a lot of money on Diesel pants. I look at that from the perspective of the other person. Do we really care about the stuff of other people? Why should those people care about our stuff then?

[@IndieRockerHippy]

Tyler Durden said it first

[@adityachadalwada4063]

Where is Ryan ?

[@SharleneTrexler]

He moved to Montana. Episode 400 is necessary endings and new beginnings

[@SharleneTrexler]

On The minimalistpostcast youtube channel

[@dietman]

@@SharleneTrexleris he coming back?

[@dinamarie6646]

​@@dietmanhe will be mainly calling but will be in person at times too.

[@Wesjapa100]

5:29 Definitely a large portion of the Apple users out there, buy the products to show to others.

[@user-vl6xt2rt7p]

Had a discussion with an older cousin who said, apple is nothing but a status symbol

[@xNobleSavagex]

I didn't see the entire conversation here, but I think it's important to define to whom this advice is directed. We too often apply the same ideas to both men and women. This vid is advice for men. Women are more amenable to the opinions of others, especially with clothes and material things. This advice is specific to MALES. A female would not necessarily be served well with these ideas.