The Art of Letting Go | The Minimalists | TEDxFargo

How might your life be better with less? Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, known to their 4 million readers as "The Minimalists," are the executive producers of MINIMALISM, the #1 indie documentary of 2016. They spoke at TEDxFargo about the benefits of letting go and living a meaningful life with less. For more info about The Minimalists visit theminimalists.com
Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, known to their four million readers as “The Minimalists,” have written four books, including the bestselling memoir, Everything That Remains. They write about living a meaningful life with less stuff at TheMinimalists.com. Their new film, Minimalism, is currently the #1 documentary of 2016.
This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx

[@candygram501]

I lost an earring almost 30 years ago. I kept the single earring for those 30 years, just in case I found the other one.Finally I threw it out because it was so silly.Then, I found the missing earring in a box at my mother’s house. Life is weird.

[@candygram501]

Also, I have to say it, this man looks like a cross between Steve Buscemi and David Bowie, with the body language of Fred Rogers, no?

[@marcarrera4904]

Oh no!!!

[@Abeta.S.A]

Finally, it's just an earrings .

[@drfix2020]

Similar thing happened to me too!

[@supercrazydesi]

I get rid of things because I didn’t use it for a year or two and then I need it ...duh!!!

[@Teresa-ig4op]

Love people, use things. The opposite never works.

[@lunalevi7482]

good quote

[@MFJared]

Somebody has been paying attention to the podcast.

[@Teresa-ig4op]

Yes, of course. ;)

[@Ermude10]

I think this is the first time I've heard Ryan say it though. Usually, it's Joshua who ends the podcast.

[@supercooled]

Tessa89 sorry to be thick but you mean don't use people a d love stuff?

[@NeThZOR]

Da Vinci says it best: "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."

[@lunalevi7482]

yeah,i'm always right

[@Izabell673]

Haha xD

[@coletivating]

+Cantwait4summer sophistication is oftenly labelled to someone or something with many features/accesories hence a typical phrase people in the 90's would talk about the latest gadget as 'sophisticated'. Simplicity is the basic form / ''stripped down" approach and so is sophisticated by it being the 'simplest' (less clutted )form of a thing.

[@NeThZOR]

Well in modern times you can apply his quote to things like phones and people's schedules. Do you want your phone to do many things but in a very intricate and complex way or would you like it to do those many things in such a simple way that it feels intuitive?

[@kassi4837]

beautiful

[@andrewavila7783]

One night I was by myself, extremely depressed, crying my eyes out, and having major alcoholism withdrawals. I had KZbin on this video came on. That's how i discovered minimalism. Its been a snowball effect ever since. I love what minimalism has done for me and i am forever grateful to joshua and ryan. This was a very powerful lesson.

[@maidahw2848]

I'm so proud of u!

[@janiem6347]

That is so awesome!

[@MindBodyFusionLLC]

Did it help you with releasing alcohol from your life?

[@GamingandSocialfun]

I will admit even as a poor person the minimalist life does help. I think it helped me by not caring so much about having more. To live within my means and to grow as a person. To a certain extent the poor are the original minamalist. However minimalism is not just having less its also a attitude. For me giving up the race for more and accepting less. Has helped my happiness and has increased my health. Since not focusing on getting more I focus on how to improve myself.

[@Handgun777]

ThoughtsandDreams I just had to write this comment down. I hope you don’t mind. I am in also on the journey of the decluttering my whole life. Thank you for sharing your story! Best regards.

[@playnejayne5550]

My minimalism came from being poor. Then I finished school and went without so-called necessities in order to double up on student loan payments. When buying a house and then a second house, I did the same to pay them off early. Now I am retired and able to live without working. Two paid off homes, one for a rental, and two paid off vehicles. The key is to be thankful for what you have and to never feel deprived.

[@redcokamixed6716]

ThoughtsandDreams I agree. But being minimalist and being poor is poor. Being a minimalist and being rich and having saving is hip 🤔

[@lizamarie3472]

You health is your wealth. I wish more people realized working out, not eating junk, drinking more water, meditation, etc is ultimately free.

[@user-ee5om8wy7u]

@@redcokamixed6716 living within or below your means makes you not poor. So even on low income, you're not necessarilu poor. While on high income, lots of people live above their means, which qualifies them as "poor"..

[@CrazyCollectorGirl]

I'm just starting my minimalism journey. It's been especially hard for me because the only home I had ever known burned down when I was 15, and we didn't have house insurance. 4 days later, my parents split up, and in the middle of class my school counselor told me I was leaving my hometown for good. It's been over 10 years, and only just now did I donate the top I wore when I ran out of my burning house. Wish me luck on going through the bin of things that survived the fire. Wish me luck on finally moving forward from my depression, anxiety, and suicidal life. Wish me luck on an uncluttered, brighter future. I need it.

[@cocolonger]

Good Luck with all of that.

[@donyeajennings1518]

I wish you luck girl and hope all is well

[@supercrazydesi]

Stay strong, keep calm and move on ...you will do great 👍🏻

[@theculinaryschooldropout9040]

Logic Goddess praying all is well. Good luck on your journey.

[@rajeshkr4150]

May be this reply is late, I wish you , your dream comes true, stay focus and strong

[@dicklongmire6836]

I'm 52 and grew up through the capitalist 80's which meant owning a BMW, Rolex and a big house meant success. Today's younger people have a different and fresh ideology of what success really means which I admire because as they say, money will never equate happiness which in my older age 110% agree.

[@kamisahmanap5598]

They are getting smartter ..

[@emilytsp6689]

Thank you so much, it definitely gives me courage to keep go and forgive about focusing on the materials ❤️

[@Surafawaz]

52 is not old

[@sauravdas7087]

Come nd join iskon in india

[@blessedmamags7796]

Agree. Knew it started in the 80s.... I'm 48 .... Working on downsizing every week 🤩

[@ChristalDawnn]

just started my minimalism journey 2 months ago ive gotten rid of so much so far and dont miss a thing and im so much happier

[@GymClubHouse]

good

[@hollow_crown_]

I started my journey a few weeks ago. I wish you all the best :)

[@anacruz-nm2km]

we recently started our minimalism journey as well would love it if you dropped by our channel and checked it out!

[@DontDooTooMuch]

Christal Dawn what did you do with the stuff you got rid of? donate or sold?

[@ChristalDawnn]

some of both depending on what it was, some i sold some i gave to friends and some i took to the op shop and sum of the junk just went into the bin

[@mishkathlay]

taking photos of the sentimental "things" is a game-changer!!!!

[@Bigboss-xe6lm]

Couldnt agree more!

[@showmercytoothers4059]

I JUST DUMPED 85% OF MY HOUSEHOLD JUNK, in a week.! YAY ME

[@utub1473]

@JamesO19991 Wow...

[@mom2peaches]

These guys have brought simplicity into my life...let go of stuff that has no value.

[@rachidamamouni9525]

thuya tkp

[@dinahandersen]

stuff has value for one and not for another. The subject is worth a debate.

[@ln611]

I love the minimalist lifestyle and what it stands for, but I find it hard for others around me to understand it. I have a lot of people in my life who want gifts, they love commercial products & packaging. I've tried to convince them for years to try to reduce the gifts they buy me for birthdays and holidays, but it never seems to stick. I'd rather just spend time with them, and cook a meal together. Was wondering if anyone else had any challenges like this, and how have you dealt with them?

[@emanalmutawa8564]

I know it might be tough, but you really don't have to convince anyone! its your choice! and the gifts that you receive are a sign of love and appreciation, thank the ones that gave them to you and you can pass them to someone else to use them!

[@antinereddingius2598]

Lauren Nihill I usually ask for 'experiences'. Plane tickets, museum tickets, theatre tickets, a day to the beach, a cooking workshop, etc. That way relatives can still give you something, but it won't clutter your entire house.

[@ln611]

Antine Reddingius I love these ideas!

[@anacruz-nm2km]

we recently started our minimalism journey as well would love it if you dropped by our channel and checked it out!

[@edennis8578]

Otie, most of us have friends and family who don't know each other. Do your in-laws from your wife's side hang out with your side of the family? But you have to keep track of who gave the gift, or it could get awkward. I've heard of people who regifted the item to the same person who gave it in the first place.

[@BlueYanYan]

From the wise words of Mahatma Gandhi: "Live simply, so that others may simply live."

[@rachelknight6028]

Beautiful words.

[@shadmansudipto7287]

When u wanna buy something, ask yourself 3 questions. 1.Do i want it? 2.Do i really need it? 3.if i get it, will it give me peace of mind?

[@CtStr]

Shadman Sudipto I use the, “Cost to use ratio.” If you buy a $2000 bike and use it once, you bought a $2000 bike. If you use it 2000 times, you bought a $1 bike.

[@francophysique5192]

CtStr how would you apply this to a car purchase?

[@JohnSmith-dn4ry]

also ask yourself "do i feel like taking care of this ?"

[@alexp4785]

I always ask myself the question "If I moved now would I be happy to pack this up". I'm *VERY* fresh on my minimalism journey but I'm trying to get out of the situation I'm in and I've put that limit on myself. My end goal is to be able to move in just a suit case that I can fit on a plane.

[@RalphJBater]

Another key question to ask before you buy anything, is "Where is this going to go?"... you need to plan a place where things will go before you bring them into your life so they do not become more clutter..

[@drfix2020]

I'm working on my path to becoming a minimalist!......Truth is, The more things you have, The more things you WORRY about!

[@beverlybelury4789]

I can remember getting stuck when it came to a few things that were precious, meaningful and/or were part of my family history. Not a lot of things. Maybe a box full. Such as a scrimshaw whales tooth from many generations back. Here's what I did, it may help those who also may want to reduce their "tough to get rid of" stuff. I thought...if I were dead who would I want to have it? Who would find joy in having it? I have a family member who is deeply connected with the ocean, who sails and lives by the water. I gave it to that person who loves it. Mounted it and placed it on a shelf. Talks about the history of whaling and refers to the tooth. Isn't that more fulfilling than being hidden in the bottom of a dark box?

[@ssedarius]

I love this whole concept: love people and use things. A few years ago, a friend of mine passed away and as I stood there in the remnants of his life watching his daughter overwhelmed with his clutter and battling her emotional ties to it, I made a decision to never put my children in that situation. Since then, I've learned to let go and I continue to do so. You are not your things. You can be so much more and people can see you more clearly when your things are not in the way.

[@nikitha515]

🖤🖤

[@katieleung87]

when my grandparents passed away, I realised they hardly had any clutter for us to deal with. that was when it hit me really hard - as you've said it well - you are not your things. thank you for reminding me of this again today.

[@rachelknight6028]

What a wonderful analogy... I'm doing the same with my life for my kids one day...

[@shaec3405]

My best friend just went thru this...

[@atemhauch]

"the more action you take, the more you want to take action" great quote

[@caronward4042]

Josh used to come into the coffee shop where I worked in Lebanon, OH. I used to tease him about being related to Christopher Walken. Ryan was my daughter's brother-in-law. If I had been able to talk to Josh very long, he would have known I was also a minimalist. I inherited a LOT of things from my parents. But I found that you either own your stuff or your stuff OWNS YOU. I hardly ever miss anything I've let go of--- and in the end, we really have to let go of it all. Love. People. Love is the only eternal thing.

[@Bigboss-xe6lm]

Been selling most of my unused stuff for the last few years. It took me almost 2 years and i sold for round 20k total. It feels goddamn awesome! Plan on scaling down. Smaller house, smaller debt, smaller cravings, smaller space to "put stuff into" and have an easier life all together. Its the frugal and wealth building steps to take to live a more free life. Now and forever.

[@EnEvighet7]

"The greatest wealth is to live content with little" - Plato "He is rich who is content with the least, for contentment is the wealth of nature" - Socrates "The greatest wealth is poverty of desires" - Seneca "Wealth consists not in having great possessions but in having few wants" - Epictetus Remember our virtue of Sophrosyne.

[@stephenfiore9960]

................ Paul of Bible fame says in the Book of Timothy 6:6 "But godliness with contentment is great gain." And in the Book of Phillipians chapter 4 vs 11& 12 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

[@panash6]

EnEvighet7 very well said.

[@automationsolution]

Greek magnificence! Noted them. Well done my friend. Love for the west from the east.

[@bonganijwara441]

EnEvighet7 jjhhgggggg

[@goodearth5584]

by leading a simple life, with care & consideration for others, life becomes fulfilling & meaningful & for such a person life is a beautiful & happy journey

[@khalidsafir]

"Love people, using things - because the opposite never works". That is so true and so important for our times. Thanks for that talk.

[@Johnmsweeney5]

These guys ooze coolness. And are probably the most genuine and humble people you could meet. Cut the bullshit berating their talk. It has value and authenticity, what more can you ask for? :)

[@kafizola5695]

John M Sweeney Some people are more visual.

[@ellenc.1093]

But doesn't the fact that they "had it all" at one point make their message even clearer? Sometimes it takes achieving materialistic success to realize that it does not bring happiness.

[@dollreemappmmk14]

When he said in actuality he was "a well organized hoarder". It all looked good. EXACTLY!!!! Less stuff equals less stress. MUCH less stress. ✌️❤️😊

[@andrewgodly5739]

It's funny, I just saw an advertisement, before this video, trying to convince me to buy something I don't need and which wouldn't bring much longterm joy to my life

[@theyayo]

use an adblocker bro

[@YouveBeenRead]

And they get $$$ for that and their books and whatever else they are selling. They have money to make a documentary traveling to cities to promote what they are selling.

[@emmilittlemuffin]

I've been minimalistic/zero waste since I moved out, not that my parents were hoarders but working 2 full time jobs at 17 to afford rent without a roommate means you just don't have time to buy stuff. Husband adopted my mentality of experiences vs things and now we have a baby and an adoption almost ready to go through and our two kids will hopefully see our example and grow up happy.

[@JohnAudioTech]

I began my minimalism journey earlier this year. 5 carloads of items to Goodwill, sold things on Craigslist and eBay (sold $170 in things just this week). Even hauled a pickup truck load of stuff to the dump. It has been refreshing but still I have a long way to go. I was never a hoarder but is amazing of how much crap I have acquired over the years.

[@brandyvasco1066]

JohnAudioTech

[@sugarsweet8598]

So how's it going?

[@deaddropsd1972]

yeah bud..my war has just begun....

[@supercrazydesi]

We buy what we need, very less wants and declutter twice a year. We are amazed every time on how much we have to get rid of.

[@mobubabe]

@@deaddropsd1972 Why does it need to ba 'a war'? If that's something you enjoy it should be easy.

[@chelseamortensen6541]

Reminds me a lot of the book: "The Life- Changing Magic of Tidying Up". Total game changer!

[@Heretical_Theology]

They reference it a couple times in their podcasts.

[@chelseamortensen6541]

Will Thorpe That’s awesome!!!

[@Tropicalpisces]

Marie knows what's up.

[@mariamoon2527]

That book really did change my life!

[@Future_Pheonix]

Great lecture. I tend to think about this a lot. It seems to me that people tend to use objects as some sort of emotional proxy or just something to project and deflect their feelings into in some form of escape instead of living through their emotions and openly expressing them and dealing with them, which only leads to more misery. (sorry, it's kinda hard to explain what I mean, but I hope it's somewhat comprehensible. saying that different emotions and feelings are being channeled through objects is another way of putting it). It takes a lot of bravery to change that sort of thing.

[@LivingFree207]

We did the same with taking pictures of things we got rid of when we downsized and moved from Ohio to Florida. Honestly, I don't even remember what I took picture of or where I have them stored. It goes to show you how we THINK things are so important until they are gone....they are not important. I love this video. I think exactly the same. We are downsizing again and plan on living out of a suitecase and traveling the world. Yes, we will have a tiny pod with some things stored that I'd like to keep like my violin and family pictures and old letters from my dad during WW 2. But stuff in general and clothe....I don't need much :)

[@CocoOPNY]

Living Free Forever awesome! I hope it goes well for you!

[@LivingFree207]

Coco S Thank you!

[@rachelknight6028]

Watching this brought me to tears... I finally found the correct video for my life. This show showed me how I can "let go" of the emotional attachment. Trying to start is a mind-block nightmare but this guy showed me... It's easy, open the wardrobes and cupboards and get rid of it! The memories are in your head.. in your heart. My Late Mother isn't in her dinner sets and old clothes... my mother in law isn't in her old handbags and jewelry... I'm not a huge consumer... I'm a tightwad. Im an emotional hoarder. Thank you guys for helping me find the first step to setting myself free and making my daily life lighter and easier to manage. ❤️

[@ericddenison4016]

Minimalism is: having enough (not too little - poverty - and not too much - self-indulgence, but simply enough and grateful; content).

[@indigometanoist6475]

My great grandma recently passed from lung cancer. I had this same realization about her things before & after she passed.

[@katelynneriehl4386]

I started my minimalism journey 2 years ago. It’s now a habit. You get used to finding multiple uses for one object rather than purchase a new item for every single use.

[@aimankhan6289]

This is amazing! I'd be looking forward to get rid of all the "just in case" stuff from my closet.

[@30dayu69]

Imagine changing the world for good in all we do in life by living the simplest life possible. A minimalistic way to be, live, learn, and grow while living in complete balance and flow is much much easier than would ever imagine! I would love to share with anyone wanting to be completely free in all you do in life. Keep it simple! Vitorio

[@lornaparong9]

Thank you so much. My mom just recently passed away. I was saving a lot of her stuff in my already cluttered house. I'm going to donate her stuff and just keep a few things. I'm also going to get rid of a lot of stuff that I don't need.

[@hardikjain7063]

I deleted all my 5000 pictures on my iPhone which I never even checked. My phone feels a little better now.

Is your phone very happy?

[@luxxart]

Well, at the same time you deleted memories. You'll forget those situations sooner or later. Your memories are part of your identity. "All those moments will be lost in time like tears in rain..."

[@skellymom]

How do you know what type of photos he deleted? Could have been photos of his meal, out of focus pics and inconsequential things. I have thrown out huge amounts of family photographs when printing on paper was a thing (before digital). Many of the photos were duplicate reprints, blurry, head cut off, pics of fingers or feet. Don't miss them one bit and saved room for the few photos that count.

[@hardikjain7063]

luxxart Notice that I mentioned, "Which I never ever checked."

[@CocoOPNY]

Hardik Jain 😂

[@Amandahugginkizz]

When I'm going through stuff now the thing that's helped me the most is repeating "make a decision and make it now" because really that's all I'm doing is delaying making a decision.

[@chrisl418]

I taught my kids by saying over and over and over..."People first, not things. Love people, not things." I wanted to instill goodness in them. I wanted them to act with kindness towards people and to put their effort into thinking of others not in gaining things. Thank you guys for reminding me that it is not my stuff that holds memories of my loved ones. I hold them in my mind.

[@arielbickel7627]

I appreciate that you both make it clear that what we part with is a choice - it's neither mandatory, nor a judgement on ourselves. For me, this quote by William Morris consistently keeps me focused on my truest intention: "Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” Thanks to you too, as well, for bringing this concept into the light of day once more. Lovely to see others living their lives as their mission.

[@SociedadePsicotica]

I am so happy to see that almost a million people have already watched this... Thanks TEDx. Keep'em coming!

[@sjbow95]

so strangely ironic to have a talk on minimalism with a truck's worth of props

[@bodyofhope]

Stephen Jakubowski I thought the same! Haha

[@tschickel27]

Stephen Jakubowski it adds value

[@christyplumlee570]

I am literally cleaning my closet as I listened to you. Thank you for the inspiration.

[@anga.6891]

this really opened up my eyes.

[@catapillargirl2021]

I never saw a Ted talk with the silent action to go along with the talk. Really appreciated it and the humor. Very inspiring and creative. I'm going to definitely incorporate this thinking into the new year.

[@rabinlenscom]

As I broke person, I am happy and looking for stuffs I don’t need in my parents house, where I live. I am trying to convince my dad that we don’t need that old TV and old sofa, oh old furnitures in basement that we never use. I am still digging the stuffs that I can discard.

[@kesiadlf1941]

Thank you guys! After watching your documentary we revamped our journey to minimalism. We had accumulated a 4 bedroom house full of stuff and felt so trapped by it, and there are only 3 of us! We are now letting go and giving away boxes full and selling the rest. Still have a lot to go but I feel better every day.

[@maddalena2529]

Hi guys, thank you very much for your words and your work, what you do is amazing. Two years ago I was in the same situation : good job, money, husband, big apartment and lots of stuff and i realize that i didn't ask for it, it wasn't my choice. So i ask myself what i really want to be happy. I started with selling and giving stuff, I stopped shopping and buying and i changed my job. I was a psychologist and i became a pastry chef and now I'm so freaking happy !!! I watched your documentary 2 times because i love it and it makes me fell so good. So thank you ! I send you lots of love from Paris and maybe one day I will also have a hug from you ! 😊

[@ReflectingShadow]

if you love something, let it go if you hate something, let it go basically let everything go who cares anyway

[@soonersciencenerd383]

RS just don't buy stuff. recycle, remake, repurpose.

[@soonersciencenerd383]

i always think about buying anything. will i use it a lot, do i need it, and if so, i will research it on the internet and youtube, and see if it is worth buying. otherwise, i''ll wait on it, and then, decide again.

[@deancassady7373]

Stupidest thing I've ever heard.

[@pierreroche8337]

Yes The Minimalists are quite right! What they is wise... Stuff is the enemy of an healthy life! We must be courageous enough to mov on and stuck by stuff!

[@gogoclovertigo1]

RS I love this!

[@bohobutterflies3074]

I love the idea with minimalism, I just cant get over the memories of old journals and things because I believe they hold a que that signal memories we would typically forget about . With my own experience I relive memories I forget about until I read old journals and it brings me a certain flood of life. I could never get rid of my old journals.

[@elizabethcarden393]

Keep things you love like that. Get rid of other things. Keeping well loved journals doesn't mean you have to keep dishes you don't use or clothes you don't wear.

[@Hairitage2023]

This video is one of the most poignant and deeply moving videos I think I’ve ever watched thus far. It totally resonates with me and answers some of the questions I’ve been wrestling with for a long time. Thanks so much...

[@Sherrilynn27]

Wonderful! Losing my father, a number of years ago, helped me realize that my memories are not in 'the stuff'. Raised three girls who are grown now and the youngest is ready to move out. I'm still working on a 'final' purge. Thanks and happy minimizing to everyone.

[@seanmarie4653]

we are moving out of our large 3 bedroom to a double wide mobile home that we payed cash for# we will save 1100 a month and I think it's the craziest coolest thing we've ever done! :-)

[@susanlansdell863]

sean marie good luck with your move.x

[@chrisrandall5235]

How's the new crib?

[@lamoabird]

We kind of did that... It wasn’t easy, expectations of friends and society... Letting go of the stereotypes of stuff, a fancy house and cars = successful... I found it to be a tough journey... nonetheless, very liberating...

[@lamoabird]

sean marie I think that a lot of people who have huge mortgages on their huge houses have no idea how liberating it is not to have one... we paid ours of with a lot of hard work and penny pinching, and it feels amazing!!! I would live pretty much anywhere not to have one!

[@HPCAT88]

Godspeed

[@blendandsnap1367]

Watched your documentary. Then this. Mind blown. I love this. I've started my journey after visiting your website.

[@AnotherBeerMovie]

Possession leads to Attachment, Attachment leads to fear of loss - And then your possessions start to own you. Remember, the King is always alone, he may be powerful but he fears to lose that wealth and power, then he starts to doubt whether there is a plot to overthrow him amidst his court that tells him what he wants to hear. Then he seats at his table for a feast and wonders whether his food or drink has been poisoned or not. Doubt leads to Uncertainty and Uncertainty can lead to Madness.

[@sediye]

so very true

[@josepheligarcia]

This is my mother.

[@MariasJournal__]

I absolutely love these guys!!! They are such an inspiration, love their podcasts and would love to meet them in person one day. Thank you for putting things in the right perspective! 🙏

[@rosiecruz5926]

Loved loved this presentation!!! This society forces you to value the material things in life. Holidays have turned into a shopping spreed. You can hardly enjoy a holiday with all these sales taking over your life. I was a shopaholic for many years, but not I'm transitioning into a minimalist, which is not easy! BUT I like it!

[@Modeltraveling]

Listening this as Im clearing my home to encourage me to continue going. Goal is to eliminate 15% of my stuff and make sure everthing I own "has a home" in my space, if it doesnt and there is no room for it, then time to let go. Best of luck to all the rest of you! And I also love that minimalism--consuming less--assists the planet!

[@minimalisticjoy628]

This is the Ted Talk that started it all for me. This speech not only speak to my heart, it spoke to my hard to crack brain. And I have nvr been happier.

[@epicwriter96]

I'm working on decluttering. It's amazing.

[@Alexis-lp1vd]

I’ve been trying to be a minimalist for an year now. And threw away so much stuff. I over 7 bags in I only have a room. Not a whole apartment smh. But I’m going to try the 30 day challenge.

[@busybeenature9092]

I am tidy, I am organised, I have always been under this impression. I am not a hoarder. I am not a discontent person. But suddenly I have become so much concerned about the stuff that are lying one on another in my entire house, which is quite big, as big as four houses, full of clutter. I have come to know the value of having less and be happy doing something beautiful in life. So I have started getting rid of unnecessary things, which I thought are keeping the memories alive. What will happen when there will be no power left, physical and mental both? Thank God to give me light before that. Well what you have said is so true and you are so young to realise all this. God bless you.

[@madilopez7492]

This is it, for me this is my beginning into minimalism! I am coming back in a year to review my post and prove to myself how happier I've become, how meaningful my life has become following this valuable mindset and philosophy. I wish everyone would give in into this idea of "less stuff - Less waste" For our future but also for our beautiful planet.

[@tiffanynelson9537]

Excellent message, Joshua and Ryan! I saw you guys in person at the Chicago doc. screening. Thanks for sharing your message; it guides my life daily! I am a more intentional person now. (P.S. to everyone: it isn't just about stuff, reducing your stuff and focusing on the most important is the first step to minimalism, but it doesn't end there. You start re-thinking relationships, your musts, your tasks and habits, and revealing what is essential and your desired goal in life).

[@Piano8happy]

Love these guys! Podcast, blog, and all!

[@Piano8happy]

+girllovesbikes agreed

[@theminimalistninja7386]

love these guys SO much!!! :)

[@MichelleTaylorGreene]

Thank you for sharing your journey... it's very inspiring! I too am on my journey of minimalism, and I couldn't be more happy. And you're right, when I started to let go of things, it encouraged my sister & mom to do the same.

[@anacecilia8391]

Love these guys. I watched their docu on netflix and I'm feeling inspired to surround myself with things that bring value and meaning to my life rather than mindlessly owning something.

[@nuttypRofesa]

wow thank you that was amazing. Your message has excited me. I've been trying to declutter my home but didn't have a focus point, which led to being unmotivated. The key messages are simple but powerful. I now look forward to starting this journey.

[@joshoarita]

My minimalism journey started in January, satisfying journey of declutering my space and mind

[@donellagallo7079]

so good and so true! I love your message and it helped me to eliminate 30 years of a houseful of stuff.....liberating is the best word to describe how it feels....keep up the good work!

[@lilyau83]

I've recently have been into minimalism as well as the vast amount of debt that we as a society have. I am glad that other people feel the same way! It honestly makes you feel so much happier to let go.

[@dotBdot]

thank you so much for the inspirational speach ☺ I feel like am drowning in my room I keep buying stuff I think I need but I never use them only once or twice 😤 ... I will start with your advice of letting go of 1 item at a time day by day 😶 and I will see how it turns out

[@CocoOPNY]

dotBdot I highly recommend the Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up, it's a bit silly at times but the principles are excellent

[@MichiruEll]

If you're interested, these guys have a podcast (you can find it on youtube). They also have a thing called the 30-day minimalism game. Where you let go of 1 thing on day 1, 2 things on day 2, and so on. More challenging, but quicker if you really have a LOT accumulated.

[@richardbambenek2601]

I heard that last message on the radio many years ago said by a pastor. He said. "In years past we used to love people and use things but now we love things and use people" That is so true of our consumer driven world and it does so much to give our lives false meaning and differentiate us from one another. We have let things define us. It's no longer who we are as a people but what we own that gives us value to others. But look at how people and businesses survive, they need to sell things and people need to buy them. To become minimalists means there needs to be a change to how we exist on this planet.

[@christineaguilera4511]

I never realized I was ona minimalism journey. It all started in 2012 when I passed by the library and rummaging through the aisles found a book by Marie kondo on the art of tidying up, which helped me start my minimalist journey. I didn't think it would become so popular. After reading the minimalists blog 6 mo this ago, I finally have the courage and understanding to treat my minimalism practice the right way. Not just getting rid of it to get rid of it, but to let go WITH purpose and appreciate what I have been left with. Thank you Marie kondo for opening my eyes and inspiring me to start this journey and to the minimalists for igniting a new purpose for my minimalism journey.

[@suescimeca4388]

Loved watching this. There are times when I want to put everything in my house on the front lawn with a sign.. "Free". Of course, that's a little extreme and I wouldn't do that. But every so often I go on a sweep through my home and clean things out that I really don't need. But I need to do more and dig deeper. This video just makes you think harder about what you have and why you have it. When you go to Goodwill and see brand new things offered for pennies on the dollar, or your neighbors three car garage is so full he has to keep those two brand new cars outside in the weather, you know something is wrong with our society. George Carlin said it all "Our houses are just stuff boxes for our stuff."

[@SpookyStorkRunningWild]

This has changed my life.

[@Jack_rabbits_sage_brush]

I started a weekend ago. I pulled out a whole truck load of stuff and took it to the dump. What a great feeling that was to get rid of it. I am now looking at downsizing my whole house. I really love this. It does feel good. Less stuff, less waste! is a great point!!!!!!

[@arissarawuttiket6379]

It's so powerful. Than you. Fire me up every time I tired of cluttering my house. I found more way to persuade my family to be more minimal.

[@esmeraldamunoz8803]

Thank you, very beautiful and thoughtful talk.

[@mandiantonucci13]

Brilliant! Just Brilliant! Luv your Work **Josh & Ryan** ❤❤❤

[@zenmusic3429]

Nothing can grow that's constantly moving. It's only when one stands still in solitude can one figure out what is really important in one's life. Experience with reflection equals wisdom.

[@kathleenmatrale]

amazing!...less is best!..thank you both! hope more people are able to take the time to listen...

[@RawVeganGinger]

Amazing talk! Minimalizing as we speak🙌🏼

[@motopolak]

I have been transforming my mindset into a minimalistic one for the past several months now and it has contributed a lot of positivity and learning for me. I keep thinking of a quote by Dave Ramsey (yes, THAT Dave Ramsey!) which I think perfectly sums up our American consumerism today: "Too many of us buy things we don't need with money we don't have to impress people we don't like." Helping people and building relationships are things that matter! All the "stuff" we have won't do anything for us when we are gone, but the people we loved and spent time with and had fun with will always remember us.

[@Lassevj]

Aleks Ulmer its a quote from 1928 by Robert Quillen.

[@Ampsinthejump]

Everything I own fits into one travel bag, and life is great.

[@silviafitti]

Taking pictures of old stuff as memory´s trigger is a great idea! It really works to decluttering.

[@MissPickles1980]

A photo doesn't capture smell though. I am keeping the teddy bear my nan knitted me until the scent of her soap fades completely. I'm not ready to swap a less intense memory from a photo for the one I currently get from a smell. I tried it with something else connected to my wedding day and ended up ditching the photo as well; it just didn't work for me - I guess I wasn't as attached to the memory as I thought.

[@vanessawiley7477]

Absolutely loved this documentary and it's what inspired me to start my own journey towards minimalism even though it felt overwhelming. It's a process but getting there !

[@ufcfighter1488]

You can send your unwanted lingerie to me

[@stacysolitude]

Saw the documentary. Was pleasantly surprised to see a TED Talk.

[@numaanshowkat8807]

I remember watching the documentary of you guys , great ideology. I have been benefited a lot. Great Work and thanks a lot ,, and glad to see you doing a TEDx show :) God Bless

[@darlenelaski9716]

Great personal talk as you age and grow wiser. Most likely, those of us in our 50's and 60's have already experienced the experiences of those of you in your 30's and 40's. At least the major ones like career choices, falling in love, having a family, health issues, losing a family member, facing a life changing traumatic event, etc. George Carlin produced an "album " in the 70s called "Stuff" I believe. It was very funny at the time. You kids might want to set some time aside, once a month, and just sit quietly and listen, with full attention, to the older members of your family. Allow them to share their stories. Learn a thing or two that might help you to avoid a mistake they made. Because I didn't do that in my 30's and 40's and someone in their 50s made the same suggestion to me, but I ignored it. I was too SELF centered. Now, I regret it so much and the WORSE emotion to drag around with oneself is regret. By the way, I would kill for the luxury of watching a homemade video of myself at the age of 3 or 10 or 25, or look at photos of my life, throughout my life, that the "millenials" or the "minimalists" have today because your taking for granted that your memories will be clear and in tact when you reach your 50s and so on. By the way again, haven't you watched Antique Roadshow and valuable treasures found in ancestors attics? You're all gonna be fine.

[@madlibbz1]

living a meaningful life with less is key!

[@SEANMCAD]

Part of Minimalism is also finding its not needed to expended a great deal of effort and energy to find yourself on a stage telling people what they (deep down inside) likely already know. one might call it superfluous inspiration

[@TheDayFamilyVlogs]

loved this talk! very inspiring. it inspired my family of four to begin the journey towards minimaliam!

[@mobubabe]

"Don't know what else to throw out of the house to make it clean to the max? Throw yourself out! People are also an eyesore for the house! Aaah, that's perfect!

[@BecauseGames]

This is very inspirational

[@anjalisharma5023]

Amazing show! Best TEDx I've ever seen till date!

[@surfsidemalibu007]

You guys rock! Thank you for spreading the good word across the planet. 🌈❤️🤙

[@MsDianneMaryWilkerson]

I quit periscope for a year and did not go back it was addicting. I then stop going on social media which took my anxiety away. I do not watch TV at all and I go on You Tube once in a bit. I do not go on Facebook at all since 3 years. I have notice more people that quit social media started to not have depression and anxiety. I read the bible which has changed my life and I have learned that I can live without many things that I thought I needed. I also lost 45 lbs my life has changed for the better since I go online less. True at first it is painful like an ache but it goes away eventually. I now help people quit social media which now most of them started offline businesses.