9 Things I Refuse to Spend Money On | minimalism + saving money

[@AtoZenLife]

What do you refuse to spend money on? Please like this video + comment below with things that YOU don't buy. Also, you can find my 50-page minimalist budgeting system here: shop.atozenlife.com/products/minimalist-budget-binder

[@Raczyna]

I refuse to spend money on things I don't need, but everyone is telling me I should have them.

[@nancyjonesfrancis]

I'm with you on all of these and practice all of the relevant ones except for one: I struggle with food delivery. The thought of cooking, and then cleaning up afterward, is overwhelming. I do eat like a relaxed raw food vegan but also order delivery, and am not opposed to meat, fish, etc. Each year, my credit card company offers free delivery on one of the major food delivery services, but you're right about tipping and the service fees. They add up. Regarding tossing mail on the counter, I do that but I have all of my bills on autopay. Also, the only debt I have is my mortgage. I pay off my credit card bills every month. My main credit card company only takes the balance from the previous cycle, which is annoying, so I actively pay off the rest on my own. I only have two credit cards, one which is set up to automatically pay for utilities. The other one I use for everything else to build up frequent flyer miles. Their cash back program seems decent but I'd love your take on these. Thank you for sharing your excellent tips!

[@nancyjonesfrancis]

Thanks for all of your great tips. I follow all of the relevant ones, though I struggle with fast food delivery. The thought of cooking, and then cleaning up afterward, is a little overwhelming. I mostly eat like a relaxed raw food vegan, so order delivery , too, and am not opposed to eating meat, fish, etc. Each year, I main credit card company offers free delivery on one of the major food delivery services. But you're right, the tips and fees add up. I'm still driving the car I bought in 2008. It's a Honda so they last for years. Sure, I would love to have a brand new electric car/alternative-energy vehicle, but the expense isn't worth it. Regarding finances and throwing the mail on the counter. I do do that, however, I have all of my bills on autopay. The only debt I have is my mortgage. I have two credit cards, which is two more than I want. The credit card associated with my bank is set up to autopay all of the utilities. My main credit card only takes the balance from the previous billing cycle, which is annoying, so I actively pay off the rest of the balance on my own. I use this one for everything else in order to build up frequent flyer miles. Their cash back program seems decent but I would love your take on these programs. Thanks!

[@ArtingFromScratch]

I honestly think it's awful that ADOBE is a subscription service instead of purchasing the software. Seems almost criminal to me. Also, I don't like that as a minimalist, you can buy digital games but then the company can just remove it from the servers.

[@wesleywinchester1890]

I refuse to pay for: car wash Make up. I go natural Paper towels Hair cuts Cat grooming I cud go on probably to 100 things I do not spend money on. I literally save thousands each year. I do not pay bank fees forprotection. They are supposed to protect our accounts. I have my boys do maintenance on my car. 😊

[@eiyiyiyi]

We just celebrated out 38th anniversary. We took the no gifts one step more. We share a single Christmas card, anniversary card, and write notes to each other and add the year. For birthdays, we use the same card for each and add a new message and the date. It all started a few years ago when we each bought the other the same Christmas card 😄

[@AtoZenLife]

That is really sweet! Thanks for sharing, I find this very inspiring. ✨

[@emmatrigg9855]

What a fantastic idea which would also make a lovely keepsake over the years

[@Snookscat]

Awesome keepsake, instead of a box of a hundred or more, most of which will collect dust, (give more to do during the holidays if you do what my family does and use them as Christmas decorations), and then get thrown out eventually.

[@Courterfly]

I love this idea!

[@TheClutterLady]

Omg, that's so cute! 🥰

[@robynwells8249]

My husband and I stopped giving gifts to each other a long time ago. Instead we’ll go out to eat for me and I’ll bake a favorite treat for my husband. No regrets one of the best decisions ever.

[@RhondaTowanda]

I love this video and your channel! I want to be debt free, so I stopped …. 1. Eating out 2. Buying clothes 3. Buying sodas 4. Buying wants 5. Buying birthday & Christmas presents for my grandchildren (16 of ‘em) I invite each one / by themselves to my house, and we do crafts ,or paint, I teach them to see on the sewing machine, Sometimes the older ones just want to listen to my records from the ‘60’ 70’s, ‘& ‘80’s! 6. I cook from scratch….. Like made my own sourdough bread, mayo, and others condiments. 7. I can loads of produce from my garden and farmers Market 8. I hang my clothes outside in spring- fall, and hang inside the cabin on a German clothes rack that I’ve brought back with me in the ‘80’s.. 9. I don keep up with the “ Jones” I like my own style for my home and clothes. 10. I stream for watching movies, KZbin and cut the Dish and others fir about 2-3 years now. 11. I have chickens and love their eggs, so I don’t buy eggs. 12. I try to be sustainable myself, and not depend on consumerism. 13. I never Ever buy a brand new vehicle! I always buy new to me vehicles. 14. I up cycle old clothes into something new. 15. I don’t have garage pickup, I take my garbage to the recycling center and pay $10 for a truck load. There’s more, but this is turning into a novel! 🌻🤎🌻🤎🌻🤎

[@aa-fw2pw]

I don't mind hearing more, it sounds like you're doing really well! One of my favourite lifestyle quotes is: Use it up, wear it out, make do, or make do without!

[@HolyokeHomesteader]

@@aa-fw2pw I like and live by that quote! 😊

[@HolyokeHomesteader]

@@aa-fw2pw I like and live by that quote!😊

[@monicaorellana12]

Continue your list is so interesting!!

[@HolyokeHomesteader]

@@monicaorellana12 I’m going to make a video,on my channel, continuing my list. Coming soon! 😊

[@rebeccabartlett2317]

I don't agree with you about paid subscriptions. I've enjoyed KZbin a lot more since I'm not getting inundated with ads for things I don't want and shouldn't buy. Mentally I just felt better with seeing fewer commercials.

[@squiggle_bits]

I agree! Ads tire me in general. I follow meditation and mindfulness channels too which can easily be ruined by ad breaks.

[@debbie1483]

Yes!!! Many times over!! 👏👏

[@janamour_13]

I agree with you. I use KZbin for my workouts at home and advertising would be very annoying. That's why I'm happy to pay the €5.99 for KZbin Lite.

[@everardocalderon8720]

How are KZbin content creators going to monetize from the videos you watch if you don’t watch commercials? 🤔

[@squiggle_bits]

@@everardocalderon8720 It's all about views. If a user has KZbin Premium, I believe the payout is divided based on views and total watch time from Premium users. There are articles that explain it better.

[@SloanePaoPow]

Public libraries often loan out dvds for free!

[@janetmcgee4525]

I agree and follow all nine of these things. It's good to be reminded and hear another person's reasons. I sold my car and walk or take the bus. I do my own gardening, house cleaning, and yard work. All these things and more enable me to stay in my house and support my son. For perspective, I am 77 and retired.

[@cynthiacrumlish4683]

No tipping when the person just hands me a coffee over the counter! No. I tip at hair salons, overnight stewards on trains, sit-down service in restaurants.

[@AtoZenLife]

That’s a great policy 👏👏👏

[@Noreenlee1]

The stress on my husband to try to find exactly the right gift was painful to watch. I finally told him to forget it. If I need something, I'll buy it, and I hate buying stuff.

[@amandaconnery6333]

I live in Spain and here the waiters and waitresses are paid a decent wage on the whole, so tipping is not something that they rely on. Tips are usually small, rounding up to the nearest Euro for instance, but are as an appreciation of good service not something that you are pressured to do because the waiting staff are desperate.

[@deenas7011]

Regarding tipping, it seems like everywhere has a tip jar. If it's a counter service place, I don't put anything in the jar. For good service at a sit down restaurant we usually tip 20%. I'm in the Chicago-area. I agree with your list! Thanks for all your great videos!

[@AtoZenLife]

Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts on tipping. 😄👍

[@ericluna2934]

The key here is "good service"!

[@MarySamios]

Regarding gifts... I am with you on this. For my husband, though? His 'love language' is definitely gifting. So I'm trying to teach him that he can gift *experiences* instead.

[@MyFocusVaries]

And consumables. A special chocolate or jar of fancy olives or jam are gifts I enjoy.

[@williamclark1244]

1. All you can eat buffets just seem so unsanitary and I don’t eat massive amounts of food anyway. 2. I enjoy cooking at home and won’t waste money on delivery services. When I do go out I believe in tipping well. Originally from PA but relocated to AZ where a lot of people don’t tip. 3. I don’t allow people to give me gifts but I give birthday gifts. I’m intentional with what I give. 4. Also, not a fan of red. 5. I used to go every two weeks for a manicure and once a month for a pedicure. Now it's twice a year for a pedicure (I walk a lot). Not really a fan of strangers touching me either so I get it. 6 and 7. I only use streaming services for the trial periods which I never end up using so why subscribe? lol 8. I avoid concerts because they’re too loud, overpriced and if you have to go to the bathroom you can't pause the event. When it’s time to go traffic is always a nightmare and after being tired it seems to take twice as long to get home. 9. Ditto!

[@MlSSadventure]

Since Covid, I just feel icky about all-you-can-eat buffets. There is only one will go to and not feel gross - because they have an attendant who puts the food on your plate. That person is the only one that has access to serving utensils for dishing out food. No germs (at least from that).

[@anoekbreeden7486]

We almost all the time tip big! To give people who work and helped us in a friendly way a really good feeling and good day. Not all money must be saved for ourselves…

[@sandihumeniuk4462]

Don’t get me started on tipping! Live here in Canada and it’s getting out of control… I should not have to tip to pick up my takeout order that I did online.

[@AtoZenLife]

💯 agree!

[@JamieM470]

I ordered a pizza to be delivered last week as a rare, special treat. (I can't remember the last time I did that lol) When I ordered it online, the restaurant asked for a "tip"......it was not for the driver; it was for the restaurant! I couldn't believe it. I tipped cash to the delivery driver of course, but tip the restaurant? That's crazy.

[@thehomemakersblog23]

I live in the UK, and I view tipping as something to do if the service has been exceptional. I really hate that in other countries, you are expected to tip and feel that if staff are reliant on their tips as part of their income, then they aren't being paid enough.

[@JamieM470]

Here in the US, restaurants refuse to pay their workers a living wage, and expect their customers to pay their wages. Most servers are also on government assistance because they don't make enough to live on. So basically corporate chain restaurants are subsidized by their customers and by all the tax-payers. While the CEO's buy new mansions and yachts every year. It's just wrong. Lots of people get angry and refuse to tip, but that only punishes the working poor (who have zero control over the laws and their employers), while still financially supporting the corporations and business owners, who laugh all the way to the bank. As long as you give them your money, they don't care if you don't tip their workers, and it does nothing to change the laws. It's just stupid and mean. Folks also like to say "get another job". That might make sense in a good economy, but most good factory jobs and computer jobs, customer service jobs, insurance jobs, etc, were shipped overseas years ago. The US is now a "service economy". In many places, service jobs are the only ones available. So to "get another job" you'd have to go tens of thousands of dollars in debt to get a college degree---which is unreasonable for most working poor---especially the ones who aren't young anymore. It's a big problem. 🤷‍♀

[@thehomemakersblog23]

@JamieM470 it's really unfair that happens. I imagine if enough people stopped working in the industry until change happened, then it would help. But it's a catch 22 where people need those jobs so they have no other choice. It should be the law that there is a minimum wage and a living wage like in the UK, but things sadly aren't that easy 😔

[@laurabi8539]

In Italy tipping isn't compulsory, it's just a way to express your EXTRA appreciation for food and service. I rarely leave tips in my Country

[@mariaaguilar973]

Same thing in Spain

[@naomimoore3747]

Same here in Australia

[@lucydawson1344]

Same in the UK also. Occasionally restaurants will put a service charge on but we ask for it to be removed.

[@wesleywinchester1890]

I feel happy when I give a gift that the person really needed

[@poodlegirl55]

I feel seen! So many of these are me!! One spring we had our cable turned off because we had a gazebo and like to sit out there on summer evenings and didn't watch TV. Come fall we just didn't turn it back on and that was 15 years ago . We only have internet. We have been married 50 years this year and rarely give gifts to each other, it's fine if you both agree and no one is getting their feelings hurt. About 20 years ago we gave each other cards and I saw it cost $5 each and I said wow I could have bought a bottle of wine for that. Every year after that we pick out a nice bottle of wine and we both sign the label.

[@LadyEuh78]

I need the "I'm not your bro" shirt your son is wearing! I can just point to it instead of having to listen to myself repeat this over and over to my children and their friends.😂

[@AtoZenLife]

He found that at the thrift store on a color day - only $1.50 for a $20 T-shirt. 👏 The brand is Under Armor, FYI 😉

[@ruthlloyd1163]

awww but bro is a term of endearment-like pal or comrade in other contexts.

[@jennibennecke669]

You too? Lol

[@ayidas]

I was in the same boat with subscriptions for quite a few years. TBH, Spotify is totally worth it. It is annoying that *everything* is a subscription now though.

[@Mayim1982]

@@ayidas Spotify person here, love the tons of music, sometimes I even catch something I haven't heard for ages and it's so nice surprise

[@GrammyNM23]

Each of us has to make our own choices. I like most of yours. But I can’t give up my mani-pedis. Growing up I was often called Ugly, Homely, or just plain. I do my beauty salon trips to restore my confidence and self esteem.

[@lynnoorman2144]

That is so sad. True beauty comes from within. I'm sure you've heard this before and that it has never rung quite true. It took me years to break the conditioning from childhood and then from society/ advertising. I'm 66 now and wear no make up, am going gradually grey and have a few wrinkles. I'm often mistaken for being in my mid 50s. I wear simple clothes. It's only when people meet my sons ( aged 41 and 38) that folk believe my age. I wish you well on your journey to freedom from other folks opinions and your past.

[@B2BJade]

The highlight of my week is receiving your email that a new video is out. Thank you for TRANSFORMING my life. My home is so peaceful and I have modelled your approach exactly - each month my stress reduces more and my life makes more sense than ever. Thank you from the bottom of my heart Marissa - you have brought purpose to the world xxx

[@AtoZenLife]

Aw, thanks so much for all your support and writing such a nice comment-it put a smile on my face today. 🤗

[@user-rq3qh5lz4h]

I agree with all of the listed points. Except the live concerts. I do enjoy them and think they are a great experience 😅 but that’s just me, everybody has to decide for themselves. At the moment I do refuse to spend money on new furniture. I am using my old pieces (like my childhood bed) and am quite happy with this choice 😊

[@audreyhuggins8822]

Yes, a night at the Hollywood Bowl soothes my soul;)

[@AtoZenLife]

Yes, if you enjoy the experience then 100% GO FOR IT! Sometimes I wish I enjoyed things as much as other people (mushrooms are another example…love hunting for them, hate eating them 😂)

[@GrammyNM23]

The Santa Fe Opera is 1st class entertainment. And I love a good country music concert. Life is about experiencing life and what is offered. Not just hiding in your house watching TV.

[@silverari23]

Regarding food delivery; I factor the extra expense in as a luxury; the freedom of not having to spend time/energy cooking if I’m not up for doing so. ❤

[@christineg6123]

If I ordered online or have to stand to order I'm not tipping!

[@Tux.Penguin]

❤ The observation at the very end is a great one, Marissa. It makes sense to me that having a disorganized and cluttered house would correlate to chaotic personal finances. ❤

[@Notable2Nikki]

I love spending money on theater, sports, concerts, and musicals. There is nothing like it. I also used to love concerts but unfortunately, I don't love the smoke and drunken folks that accompanies those outdoor venue concerts anymore. I try to go to indoor venues so at least, I can avoid a headache from the smoke of the outdoor venues.

[@orhankaris]

Not making up to a million before retirement is unfulfilled retirement.!! I’m 54 and my wife 50 we are both retired with over $7 million in net worth and no debts. Currently living smart and frugal with our money. No longer putting blames on FED for our misfortunes. Saving and investing lifestyle in the stock and forex market made it possible for us this early, even till now we earn weekly.

[@orhankaris]

Investment should on every wise individuals bucket list. You will be ecstatic of the decision you made today.

[@FahretaTosic2435]

so perfect

[@FahretaTosic2435]

I got my first house the year I started investing and today networth is over £732k

[@orhankaris]

Credits to Dylan Kyle Zachary, He saw me through the process.

[@orhankaris]

you all can glance his name up on the internet and verify him yourself. he has years of financial market experience

[@courtneyharrel5500]

I don’t like to spend money on water bottles, basic type restaurants and Starbucks. I don’t like to waste gas, electricity, & tipping has gotten ridiculous at the counter!

[@AtoZenLife]

It’s actually harder NOT to tip - I’ve noticed that most places will preset the tip amount to 10% and you have to manually change it. 😅

[@marieschmidt5550]

I believe this topic is quite individual, it depends on your circumstances which things you don't spent money on. E.g. I live in a big city and don't need a car, somebody else might need a car. I love the creativity to decide what makes sense not to spend money on. Your video is an amazing inspiration . Things I don't spend money on: Car Water ( I am fortunate to have very good tap water) Being an introvert saves money because I am mindful about my social events, so I definitely save money there Regular clothes shopping nails/beauty treatments Wellness establishments Hobbies that require high fees (e.g. memberships in sports clubs) I have no kids, so this is more of an involuntary saving 😅😅😅

[@AtoZenLife]

Absolutely, that’s the power of knowing what’s essential and important to YOU - it will guide your spending AND saving! 👏

[@reidunregineodland6938]

The tipping culture in USA is so scary, I'm worried the staff will chase me if I don't tip properly...! I'm from Scandinavia, and I've tried to research how and when and whatnot, but it is just sooooo scary. We believe that tipping shouldn't be necessary. Why won't the employer simply pay their staff fairly, and set their prices accordingly in the menu? I can't wrap my head around it.

[@darlenebergantzel1534]

I live in Arizona where anyone who works in a job where tipping is expected can be paid $3/hr below the state minimum wage. Because of this, I tip at least $3, regardless of the amount of the order.

[@OdinsSage]

Anti-tipping people are ignorant of the laws around tipping, and how businesses can use that to pay people under minimum wage. Always tip if you can afford to do so!

[@MichelleNovalee]

@@OdinsSageno, anti-tipping people understand the laws and think the burden should be put on the employer, not the customer. I’m not perpetuating the problem by tipping out of guilt.

[@user-dq4ri6fi7b]

Canada and the tipping is out of control. Every place has a tip choice on the credit card reader now so you have to opt out of the tip if you don't want to give a tip. So a coffee shop, walk up to the counter, order a coffee and they want a tip. Arenas, walk up to the counter get a pop, they hand the bottle to you and they want a tip, and considering arena pop cost 8 bucks, tax and tip take it up to almost 10 bucks. What I do now, i don't tip standing up, if I order and receive my order while standing, no tip for you. All that being said, I always tip at a sit down restaurant or if something is delivered to my door. It's an extended service over and above paying for the order so I always tip.

[@CoreyLloydo]

Why would I give a fish mouth a nickel for taxes if I was financially secure? I'm glad I have good insurance, especially since I had heart surgery in February!

[@BaileyJames-zv2ddd]

At the age of 67, I left my job and began receiving my full Social Security benefits. and after a couple of years went back to work full-time in a different industry. For me, it's enjoyable. Really! As so, I make money from three sources. I like life and go wherever I want to go.

[@LouisMorganxb3]

In a decade, your retirement assets and financial flexibility will increase. Your ability to live within your means will be the reason for your success! It'll be easy-it's just you!

[@palebiss1646]

Although it is annoying to lose money, the longer you keep it as a pet, the more opportunities you miss out on because you could have spent the cash on something more worthwhile.

[@BaileyJames-zv2ddd]

"Taking good care and consideration of everything you own" is true. My FA resolves issues for me the majority of the time. *Leah* *Alderman* *Foster*

[@OscarOwenn]

Time is the most precious resource that most people misuse. There are only five opportunities in a lifetime to begin a low-risk, thirty-year investment route that will lead to financial independence, starting at age 25. It is definitely achievable after that, but the harder it gets the longer you wait.

[@lormor460]

In Washington state, tipping is a big thing. From everything to pick up, coffee, and restaurants, haircuts. Makes everything just that much more. We don’t even have a Cracker Barrel because Washington state will pay only minimum wage (which is like $15-$20 an hour now 😮). And. The rest is dependent upon dependent on tipping. And I agree with you…no pedicures, manicures or massages. Ick.

[@AtoZenLife]

😳😳

[@OdinsSage]

I also live in Washington state, and have many friends who are batistas. Let me tell you, those tips can make the difference between being able to pay all your bills that month or not. Unfortunately, this society has built tipping into its culture in such a way that businesses feel they can justify not paying those workers what they need to survive. Yes, the burden should not be on us, but I for one will not punish the employee for the garbage paying practice the corporation puts in place - if I can afford to tip well I will.

[@MichelleNovalee]

⁠@@OdinsSageyou are perpetuating the problem though

[@bethk8149]

​@@OdinsSageIt is the employers responsibility to pay their employees not mine. If an employee feels like they don't make enough then they should move on. Eventually an employer will have to pay more to keep employees. That's what has happened where I work and it isn't even low paying for it's category but they want the best employees so they're willing to pay for them. Until people stand up for themselves and stop expecting others/government to take care of them, nothing will change.

[@Raczyna]

Yeah, tiping. I hate, when tip is already in check. If it is so, I dont give anything more. I like to give big tips, but if the service is poor, there will be no tip.

[@ericluna2934]

Exactly 💯

[@MoneyMindsetCoach3]

I live in rural Missouri and work in a kitchen boutique store. There is the option to tip me at the register, which i don’t expect, unless i have helped someone find something or demonstrated a product etc. i think tipping has gotten out of control in general. I tip servers, my hairdresser, pizza delivery. I don’t tip someone at panera for ringing up my order

[@MichelleNovalee]

So you expect a tip for doing your job? Isn’t that what your hourly wage is for? Am I not allowed to ask a store employee where something is unless I tip them? 🤨

[@kirbythsquirrel]

I rarely go to buffets, but my husband and I went to a fabulous Indian lunch buffet just yesterday and I loved that I got to try a little if everything! I would not have ordered a full portion of lamb curry, and so I would not have known how delicious and tender it was if I hadn't had a chance to try it with no risk.

[@micajahsmom]

I tip in sit down restaurants, food delivery and grocery delivery only. These people deserve to be tipped generously because they are doing a great service for me. I have very poor vision and don't drive so I depend on them.

[@MoneyMindsetCoach3]

Also hairdressers 🤔

[@micajahsmom]

@@MoneyMindsetCoach3 exactly. I forgot them.

[@laurawood4476]

Now that im 70 i do get a pedicure , its very difficult for me to care for my feet myself .I just get the basic because i have never found it relaxing so im not interested in extras. Also i do get my hair cut about every 3 months as lifting my arms up to wash my hair is getting more challenging so the shorter the better . I tip my nail person and my hair dresser 25% percent because they have been doing my pedicures for 16 years and my hairdresser 25 years now . Their service greatly simplifies my life and self care .

[@silverari23]

Also, my husband and I stopped exchanging “expected” gifts years ago as well. We found it silly when we were gifting each other things we could/would easily buy ourselves. Now, if we happen to buy each other a gift, it’s spontaneous, special, and much more meaningful. ❤

[@denisebunker6674]

So funny I also do not like people touching my feet. LOL

[@AtoZenLife]

Glad it’s not just me! My husband and in-laws LOVE to get foot massages. They took me to get one in China and I was screaming…they are SO ROUGH. 😭 It was even more torturous than usual.

[@kathrynp7595]

I’m the same way, hate manicures, pedicures and massages, grosses me out having strangers touching me. I only get my hair cut 2 times a year and have let it go silver.

[@Kat.Beanie]

In the UK, tipping culture isn't a thing. We'll tip a server if we've got good service but there isn't an expectation to because we have a minimum wage system, and also there isn't a percentage expectation dependent on the amount you purchase.

[@AtoZenLife]

Thanks for sharing 🙏

[@annemariedrummond4827]

I live in Australia and hospitality staff are paid a good wage so tipping culture does not happen here. So when we go out we know how much our meal will cost as all tax is included and the staff do not expect a tip Much easier and people should earn a good wage as a right

[@beverlyness7954]

Tipping has become way overdone. It feels very judgmental as to whether you tip or how high your percentage is. I like to think I tip generously when there's an actual service being provided, like waiters and waitresses at a restaurant. Nowadays it seems there's a tip jar everywhere. Even when ordering at a counter or drive through. Isn't that the job they're being paid to do? My 14 year old granddaughter clicked the highest tip possible - 28% - at her favorite BOBA shop because it was the highlighted tip percentage. Then she didn't have enough on her gift card to buy the BOBA drink. I stepped in and paid for the item she wanted but it seemed to me she was being trained to overspend.

[@AtoZenLife]

Wow, good that you noticed and stepped in with your granddaughter, this is definitely an important conversation to have with the younger generation! 🙌

[@susanbernier9399]

Not trying to be rude but by paying for her you taught her to not live within her means. By not having any consequences to her over tipping she is likely to do it again unless you used it as an opportunity to have a discussion about money and/or responsibility. However, as a grandmother as well ,I know it’s hard to find the balance between good guy and lesson teaching. 💕🇨🇦

[@beverlyness7954]

@@susanbernier9399 I did talk to her, but I intend to keep the conversation open about spending within her means. Banks and credit agencies are draining the income of young people - it's horrible! I'll keep talking with her and all my grandchildren. I don't intend to let these agencies steal from their future.

[@susanbernier9399]

@@beverlyness7954 Good for you! 💕🇨🇦

[@erinb1815]

Love the Ghibli movie clips !❤❤❤

[@bridgetparedes]

I've been watching you for a few years, but these last few months of content have felt especially inspiring and unique! Every minimalist youtuber makes this style of video but you had some ideas on here that I hadn't considered - like buffets. We don't really do typical ayce buffets, but we do love to go for Brazilian BBQ or AYCE sushi on special occasions. Your perspective on the mindset around those places is really thought-provoking!

[@AtoZenLife]

Wow, thank you so much for the huge compliment! The buffet think was also a surprising lightbulb moment for me. Thanks for sharing your thoughts-sushi is my favorite btw! 🙌😉

[@jandkhilbert]

I can relate to your list! We do not buy any streaming or subscription services - good ol KZbin with ads. Agree with #1 especially and with concert prices - I'll take a train ride anywhere with that money 💰

[@audreyhuggins8822]

I don't buy cable, deliveries, trips to beach type places (I live in Southern California, we have enough beaches here) any apps or YT memberships, sorry. But I do love your channel.

[@ms.schnapp7415]

Great list! Agree that food delivery has too many extra charges, but the value of saving time going grocery shopping, food prep, cooking, and clean up, may be greater. I say this from a two income no kids household. If there are things or conveniences you enjoy and can't let go of, find ways to save on them. For example, I enjoy massages. Fortunately, they're considered a medical expense now and I can use my Flexible Spending Account, making them tax deductible. My savings - I make coffee and tea at home most of the time.

[@leahhouston8879]

Single mom of autistic child, yes to everything but I get my groceries delivered. Well worth leaving the melt downs at the store, plus you keep to your list, plus I save time.

[@patriciahankel911]

My daughter had a wage of $2 an hour while working as a waitress. She counted on the tips…but her tips were shared with the cook the bar tender, the door greater the dish washer anyone who helped making the meal. So tip big and enjoy your meal.

[@L83000]

no way....2???

[@OdinsSage]

This. The amount of people I've known who live paycheck to paycheck and who's tip wages make all the world of difference in their day to day lives is wild. Tip your server, tip your batista, tip your hair dresser - if you can afford to do the thing in the first place, tip the under paid employee who has to perform the service.

[@ericluna2934]

Only if the service is good. She is still working for it, and we shouldn't have to tip for bad service. I'm a Big tipper

[@jengenx7729]

What country is this in…$2.00!!!! At least in Australia we have minimum wage….. I am one of the those low wage earner working in a cafe, most people don’t tip in Australia and I certainly earn no money from tips

[@francoiselafferty-hancock5112]

It's really disgusting that people aren't paid a proper wage! I'm sure those at the top are making so much money off the people at the bottom. They should be paying them properly!

[@brendasparks6234]

Free.99;). I’m a good tipper even if they are bad. I’ll write a little note and said hope your day gets better. I like to think they’re just having a bad day.❤❤

[@AtoZenLife]

You have a heart as big as the ocean, Brenda! 🙌

[@chriscn8078]

Really enjoy your content, Marissa! Always inspiring and appreciate the reminders on spending/not spending. My partner and I are now giving each other "experiences" so our Christmas gift to each other was a weekend away later in January, etc. We do love live music, but generally more like "sit down" concerts. I have musician ear plugs, so I can enjoy safely.

[@AtoZenLife]

Love that and thanks for sharing! ❤️

[@aquarius2]

Could you do another episode on your new budget and investments now that you’re back in the USA? Thank you for your great advice!

[@ingalillbelander1235]

In Sweden we hadn’t tipping earlier but nowadays it’s have been more and more common but I don’t leave tip if the restaurant have collective agreement I think it’s better that they staff have a salary that they can live off. Sorry for my bad English.

[@johnnycashlives316]

I have stopped buying clothes. I have plenty.

[@SimplyKatieWalks]

Agree!!🎉🎉

[@Pinkbear20]

I keep my nails without polish also. I stopped wearing nail polish when I was cooking breakfast on the stove for my family. The nail polish chipped off into the scrambled eggs I was cooking. Never again.

[@JRC76444]

🇨🇦 Canada. Tip for food delivery 15% Restaurants 20% for good service 😀

[@autorinmitkatze]

Thank you for this inspiring video! I also do not pay for apps, and I just hate it how literally every app now has a subscription model. I also do not spend money on beauty treatments, but I love getting a thai massage now and then. Since we have cats, there was a time when we spent money on cat toys we thought being funny, but our cats don't play with them. So it's homemade cat toys made from old socks stuffed with herbs now. I stopped spending money on greeting cards since I discovered how much fun it is to craft them by myself. In the last years my husband bought crushed ice from the store, but this year I got us silicone ice cube trays, because I really was fed up with Hubby litterally buying frozen tap water. 🤣

[@AtoZenLife]

Thank you for sharing-good call on the ice trays!

[@cindywilkinson1610]

Marissa, I totally agree with you on most of these -- my feet need periodic pedicures for maintenance. My heels can get rougher than sandpaper! Thanks for verbalizing these services and activities that can cause us to spend money thoughtlessly.

[@AtoZenLife]

I struggle with my heels as well, so I get this 🥲

[@lisaann6267]

@@AtoZenLife if you soak your feet-a dropper of castor oil in the water softens calous skin comes off easily. i use 1 old towel . and towel wases out fine with no stain. i wash with borax soap for that.

[@kimvilleneuve2543]

I am so with you on paying fees. And I never pay interest on my credit cards.

[@lindacurtis7267]

At all you can eat buffets I find myself with a plate of very strange food combinations. I hate amusement parks, hot, sweaty, crowded and expensive!

[@Thesignarizzler123]

I loved these points. I like tipping and showing appreciation if someone goes above and beyond what they need to or are particularly chatty and happy. It’s nice to make others feel good. X

[@traceyjane4288]

me and my husband dont buy for each other anymore and thats the way we like it :)

[@LoveFluffybums1]

I am there with you about the beige and the red 😅. Also about the kids choosing their colors. I never liked pink and my daughter is obsessed with pink lol.

[@AtoZenLife]

Oh my goodness, that’s too funny! But tastes definitely change-I used to dislike pink and now I love it. 🤣

[@LoveFluffybums1]

@AtoZenLife I kind of agree 😅, I started liking mauve and blush pink once they were everywhere. Thank 💗 you so much for all of your videos, I am struggling to become a minimalist, but working on it daily!

[@AtoZenLife]

@@LoveFluffybums1 Happy to hear that and have you here 🤗

[@LoveFluffybums1]

@AtoZenLife Thank you and all the best to you ❤️!!

[@marypladsen5231]

Very good post. Of course it helps that I agree with you on almost everything. Except I'm a slob but I don't have debt. Guess there are exceptions to most rules. Thanks for your wisdom and clear presentation.

[@maryhiggins6783]

Here in US... I hate the tipping culture.... however, since we don't pay servers anything, tips are necessary in restaurants. Not everywhere!

[@tyannagiles]

Im getting to the point that if something has a subscription I don't want it cause it feels like the price will just go up every 6 months and they will make it less convenient. For now we only have disney plus for our little guy and spotify which is on a family plan with my brother, we used to have alot more but dropped them as they got greedy. Do not pay for delivery and also have also started to be choosy on tipping cause it is everywhere now.

[@Shiryone]

Tipping has become quite a "thing" in the U.S. There seems to be a jar next to many cash registers these days. A KZbinr that I watch said that she took her children to a baseball game and purchased them 2 small bottles of sports drinks ($14!) and when she went to pay the machine asked her if she wanted to tip. ??? She hit the "no" button really quick. Yeah, it's gotten to be a bit much.

[@RG-vt9qs]

Ditto regarding pedicures and massages! **shudder**

[@Mayim1982]

No all-you-can-eat and no food delivery, but I am the total opposite regarding the beauty procedures, massages etc. as I am generally this "don't touch me" person, but massages, getting a haircut etc. are me being touched on MY conditions. But still I think a lot about how much I spend on it and usually stick to the very basics (hair cut as short as possible and no color, plain manicure, etc)

[@AtoZenLife]

I totally get that! 🙌

[@Under510]

Thanks for the insight!💯

[@stephanieschwartz5214]

I really don't like concerts either. I've always been this way but it took me decades to realize it because I've always been such a music fan. You concisely pointed out everything I don't like about them. Noisy, all the people, etc. Every time I'm at a concert I'm secretly wondering when it's going to be over.

[@sandyhumissouri5131]

If there are two socks, it's a pair.

[@lizasoliman723]

i could never get a pedicure, but i am 100% in for an intense massage & love it when they can go ham on my foot arches! that's a rare & special treat for me. to each their own

[@famguyluvr]

I only tip at a sit down restaurant with table service, and never more than 15% rounded to the next whole dollar.

[@czytaMYlektury]

Hi, I',m from Poland. Tipping here is a common thing, but it is usually up to you. Tipically it is 10-20% of your bill.

[@ren8240]

I've never heard of the "sad beige" thing before, but what I find really sad is that somebody would actually spend their time making it into a thing, like they have nothing better going on in their life! 🤔

[@AtoZenLife]

Right? People can be so judgmental 😅

[@forwhereyourtreasureis]

I used to buy very colorful clothes for my 2 sons (orange, turquoise, blue, green) and they loved it. Now my boys are in their late teens and they buy their own clothes in the color...sad beige! 😂

[@AtoZenLife]

Oh, how the tables have turned 😂

[@amydearman6361]

I watched this video just in time. I forgot that our Netflix account (that I paused for a month) was going to unpause tomorrow, and we would have gotten charged again. Fortunately, I saw this video, which reminded me to go in and continue to pause it for another month.

[@sandihumeniuk4462]

And not to mention, the cost of buffet meal is getting ridiculous! Often costing close to $30 a person

[@AtoZenLife]

Right, and then you’re overspending AND overeating 😅

[@ThatsTravelUSA]

This was great, thank you for sharing.

[@susanfleming496]

Great video Marissa! Thank you for your thoughtful content. Nice to see your Berlin apartment again. ❤

[@AtoZenLife]

Thanks, Susan, it was nice to visit and see the fam - it was my FIL’s 85th birthday. 🥹

[@spannajupiter]

Our tipping culture in Belgium is like rest of Europe. You give a bit extra money 5e or 10 depending on bill if service is good and its appreciated but not expected.

[@user-je2lp2iz7e]

I will not tip if I pick up food . delivery yes.

[@financiallysparkling]

Seasonal holiday spending [Christmas / Black Friday] is something I refuse to spend money on. Often times, the best time to get value for your money is never around the holidays. Planning is important. 😊

[@jennifermunn6898]

We do the door dashing and Uber Eats on weekends for extra money to pay towards debt, both barely pay the drivers, the tips is what the drivers make, if we get an order for 2.00 on door dash we know it’s no tip, so we will decline that order, it will get bounced around until a driver takes it or they send it back to the customer and tell them if they add a tip it will get picked up faster, as we are using our gas, wear and tear on our vehicle, tires etc and no tip you can go get it yourself, lots of time we are out in extreme heat we live in the south, matter of fact South Carolina and it’s humid and sometimes it’s raining and sometimes we have to climb stairs so yes we tip well on those as we understand how it works, good video! 🎉

[@1005corvuscorax]

Since you asked about tipping- In my area of the U.S. (rural east Oregon), tipping is not expected for minimum wage earners, even for great service. e.g. fast food workers (even non-franchise), gas station attendants, CNAs, many child care workers, retail, food prep, etc. Servers (wait staff) get paid at least minimum wage, so it always baffles me why many people easily drop a 15-20% tip even for "average" service. It's actually an *expected* part of going out to eat at a restaurant. It's been so ingrained over the decades that it's considered *rude* to not tip, even if the service is merely doing the baseline of the job. Personally, I don't tip unless the service is *exceptional*, above and beyond. However, my wife always makes sure the wait staff gets a 20% tip even for nominal service.

[@carmenlheureux5435]

Totally agree with you on all 9, with more accent on live concerts and publicity on Spotify.❤

[@oklyuchinskaya]

In Russia, we usually tip 10% if we are satisfied, less if we have questions, nothing if we hate what we got. Many people don't tip at all. Unfortunately, we cannot tip cooks and waiters separately, in most cases it all goes to the waiter and eventually cooks earn less than waiters

[@annefrance9282]

I agree: the tipping should be for good service, not beforehand anyway (I'm hailing from Lower-Saxony by the way ;) ). I'm totally with you regarding live concerts (except classical concerts maybe), but all these people in one place and the loudness, it makes me feel crazy only by thinking about it. Thank you for this video, very informative as always.

[@jhunbn2296]

In my country, Philippines, Tipping is NOT a culture or a norm. It's absolutely depends on the customer if she likes the service being provided or anything about the food or restaurant. The thought that you are being paid to do your job which you applied for in the first place, then you arw expected to do it right, and if I like you how you do your job then I give you a tip for doing a good job.

[@pennygodfrey2341]

I live in Australia, and we don't really tip. Sometimes if a meal is really good or we got really good service we'll tip, but in general it's not expected.

[@hlphowell]

My son delivered pizza. He pays his own gas and car expenses. The shop charges a delivery fee which customers assume is the tip. Without a tip, he is paying for you to get your pizza. US, New England.

[@AtoZenLife]

If people choose to get pizza delivered, then hopefully they will also choose to tip.

[@BtwAlice]

I'm in Vietnam, and no, we normally don't tip, and yes, the employees, the servers, and whoever is working in services still earn enough for their living. They do not live on tips. We do give them a bit more as a thank you if they help us more than what we pay for, or their working conditions aren't as ideal as normal (delivery in bad weather, for example). I used to be a server in a small restaurant when I was in uni, and I would say only foreigners and "people who looked rich" gave me tips (if the foreigners tipped big, they were Americans lol), I served them just as well as others who didn't, cuz that's my job. In some restaurants, servers even share their tips with each other as if it's a team effort (which it is). So, I never understand the American tipping culture.

[@kimvilleneuve2543]

I love pedi and mani. Wish I could get them more often.

[@mizcey]

As a kid, rich chocolate brown was my favourite colour!

[@bethanyg153]

My parents loved the all you can eat buffets too. There's one they still like to take us to, and we join them, but I just look at it as an opportunity to see my food first and feeling like I have more options instead of eating all I can eat. I think it's easier than ordering chinese or thai food from a menu. Sometimes when I order from a menu I'm a little disappointed with what arrives. Like it didn't have as much sauce as i thought or maybe it ended up being sweet instead of savory like I wanted. If you're disappointed with an all you can eat buffet item, you can just replace it easily. The methodology when I was a kid was definately to get our money's worth, and that mindset changed as an adult.

[@debrafillingim7093]

Ontipping-yes I live in Florida and recent;y I notice it I go throught the line and order food (pizza, chipolte, tijuana flats) they are all asking on the screen for a tip. My husband and I believe in tipping well at sit down restaurants but this new thing is something we are not crazy about.