The Dark Side of Minimalism ~ Minimalist Life Better or Worse?

[@ConnieRiet]

Thanks Better Help for sponsoring this video! Click www.betterhelp.com/connie for a 10% discount on your first month of therapy.

[@Lead_67]

Minimalism is not a life for me, i do however absolutely believe in essentialism. Stuff should never own you.

[@jimmymac2292]

I feel like when people often think of minimalism, they describe essentialism. Only buying the things you need. I think finding a balance is the key.

[@rayjones4951]

Keep what you enjoy and love. Don’t get rid of everything. Watch out for things that own you or end up costing you to maintain. This is what works for me.

[@ConnieRiet]

Well said! Thank you

[@annsmith7207]

There is minimalism and then there is deprivation. Always find a comfortable balance!.

[@ConnieRiet]

Very well said! Thank you

[@Francoise311]

Connie..your honesty is what makes your videos so special and I have learnt a lot from you. At the end I believe in the middle way.. Not being obsessed with possessions but not being obsessed with getting rid of everything either and living in an empty and sterile environment. In reality do we prefer to visit friends who have a warm welcoming home or live in an empty sterile space? I am 63, have moved countries several times but I have kept a doll and a teddy bear who bring me back to my childhood home and my dear parents no longer here. There is a French song which says: “Today is the beginning of the rest of my life”…

[@ConnieRiet]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and wisdom with us! I love the quote, "today is the beginning of the rest of my life." That sentence resonates with me deeply. happiness & peace

[@elizabethdaniels51]

Sometimes letting go for me is a “necessary loss” because it frees me. It brings in new energy to my soul for me to dance with life instead of being weighed down by too many things. I find that each decade of life ushers in new awareness of what is truly contributing to my life. Now in my 60’s, I find a very new set of priorities. When I let go now: too many old photos, clothes that no longer work for my lifestyle, decor I no longer enjoy, old linens and towels, books that someone else could enjoy, etc, I usher in new energy. It is freeing.

[@ConnieRiet]

Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us! I love how you said, "each decade of life ushers in a new awareness." Beautifully said!

[@sharynm79]

I don’t understand this video. Is that a house that’s listed for sale? Empty and nothing anywhere??? Why have a big house if it’s empty??? Confused 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@ConnieRiet]

Good Question! This video has footage from past moments in the last 6 months. The empty house video is taken from when I sold everything this spring to travel nomadically with my husband. You may enjoy that video. Here is the link kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmTQlpKBp5msaNU kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZasn6eVfpV2pbc

[@jacquelinemcgowan8164]

I decluttered my life to the extent it felt like i was eliminate my life, thats when i htought i had a problem, it wasn,t just possessions it was my life i felt i was getting rid of. Thats when i started to introduce things back in, and realising God has given us things to enjoy, i still try to implement all i have learnt in this life, but we are meant to like things and as lo

[@Postcard_Perfect]

I am a natural minimalist and my advice to people is to Live the Life you Want and you will see the Excess. You can’t eliminate before knowing who you are and what you want from life …

[@ConnieRiet]

You are 100% correct! Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us.

[@JLKeener77]

I've gotten rid of most of my things, but I have kept all items related to my major hobby of oil painting. Getting rid of all of the unnecessary stuff in my life has allowed me to really focus in on making art and enjoying the art books and magazines I have collected over the years. Before getting rid of all of my junk, I never realized how much anxiety and stress was caused by having so many extra items around my home. I would encourage someone dabbling in minimalism to allow themselves to splurge by keeping things related to one or two hobbies because minimalists too need hobbies and objects that can aid them in recreation and relaxation. The problem in our world is all of the extra stuff that just never gets used or takes our focus from the important things in life.

[@katherinepace7369]

I appreciate your perspective. We change. I used to be ruthless with getting rid of things. Now, I realize I may want to hold onto a few special items to pass down to my children or grandchildren one day. Those can be cherished links to family and ancestors.

[@ConnieRiet]

That's the beauty of life. Adapting, changing and growing. Thank you for sharing your story with us!

[@kd2533]

I just love your videos. I became a minimalist as a working single Mum, not initially by choice. Just not made of money. Ended up embracing this way of life with less and being frugal.

[@ConnieRiet]

Thank you for sharing your story! I can relate! I began my minimalist journey in 2008 during the recession. A life changing process of selling off items to pay bills. It was incredibly difficult but it changed how I view material possessions. happiness & peace

[@heidixxx2454]

I move items to the inactive pile in the attic, see how it feels to live without in the active (living) space, see how it feels when I revisit the inactive pile once a year--or sooner, or later.

[@ConnieRiet]

I love this idea of the "inactive pile"! What a fantastic way to gently bring awareness to the things we may or may not need. Thanks

[@heidixxx2454]

Some books I regret letting go when I first started the process of reduction.

[@SassySue67]

I still have my very first doll, I also have my Moms, that was in pieces. I had it repaired and have it on display now.

[@audreyshannon8709]

Objects can be put aside & then revisited later. Out of sight out of mind. If you forgot you had it then it's a good bet you can let it go. I prefer a minimalist life but my other half doesnt. I love your peaceful, calm life Connie. I have learnt that nature is the one thing we should ALL cherish, not material objects.

[@mariawatson4171]

I have been a minimalist many years too. It is a journey!!! I use it now to see where i am on that road. For me the Let Go is important it keeps me balanced as i embrace minimalism. You can go overboard it is learning to find that moment that helps me to check in with my desires. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I enjoy the peace that this lifestyle brings me and will be a minimalist for life!!

[@ConnieRiet]

Minimalism is a journey, I agree! Over 15 years of living minimally it has shifted and adapted many times to accommodate where I was at in my life. Thank you for sharing your story with us!

[@Mimi-wq5cz]

Merci Connie de ce nouveau partage , Depuis 2017, j'ai entrepris mon voyage vers plus de clarté dans mon environnement. J'ai commencé par ce qui ne portait aucune attache sentimentale .Je n'ai pas fait de grand vide d'un coup mais procédé dans chaque pièce ou domaine par palier.J'ai adopté facilement le procédé suivant : un premier allégement de l'endroit,puis un deuxième etc ..., par couches successives. Cela me permettait de savoir exactement ce que j'avais ou non utilisé d'une fois sur l'autre ,de donner une seconde chance pour certaines choses ..ou pas . De voir comment je me sentais avec ça, les bienfaits que j'en retirais .Et c'est important parfois de laisser infuser l'idée de la séparation d'avec des choses . Ce qui m'a encouragée , c'est qu'aucun des objets éliminés de chez moi ne m'a encore manqué. Alors le processus de désencombrement s'est peaufiné, approfondi au fil du temps, et a permis de mieux me connaître. Le plus difficile reste effectivement l'aspect sentimental, émotionnel. Mon principal regret pour le moment étant d'avoir dématérialisé toutes les photos de notre famille.C'est fou qu'un simple changement de support puisse me laisser si mal à l'aise 🤔. Disparition physique trop radicale. ( Mais en ré-imprimer certaines m'angoisserait ,sans garantie de retrouver le résultat initial).Ces photos sont devenues des fichiers,classés certes ,mais ont ,comment le dire, "perdu leur âme" 😢 ... Je pensais me décharger émotionnellement et partager par clé USB avec mes enfants mais je me suis tout simplement trahie sur ce coup-là. Oui ,mon état émotionnel n'était pas prêt pour cela. 😢

[@livingoncoffee]

What a beautiful place. Easy to find peace there!

[@amychen2504]

I certainly get rid of things from people who I can’t get rid of from my life.

[@MargitIványi]

What an important aspect! Thank you! For some reason I prefer the word "simple" to "minimal". It (and its message/sound) is softer. :-)

[@ConnieRiet]

I like your point of view! Simple is a more welcoming word. Thanks

[@teresajohnson826]

I am grateful I have found your videos! Your calm sweet voice brings me such peace! Listening to your videos is what I need!Recently retired in August 2023 and I am trying to discover my true self to live by on this new journey! Blessings to you!

[@ros8986]

Minimalism is only rigid if you decide it is rigid. Fumio Sasaki (who is minimalist by anyone's standards) says minimalism is not about how many things you have, or if you can put all your stuff in a backpack.

[@ConnieRiet]

Very well said! Thank you for your input

[@LB-xk6fk]

Your videos are always so beautifully edited and the content is always what I need to hear. Thank you! You are such a lovely human being. 🙏🏻❤️

[@ConnieRiet]

Thank you my friend 🙏

[@virginiaafulcher9626]

Very wise insights on how to approach one's minimalist journey mindfully so as to not let go of things you may later regret.

[@ConnieRiet]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

[@lindathomas9844]

I keep everything if it’s beautiful or useful

[@mctfarr]

Thank you for your beautiful work. You are much appreciated. I wish you all the happiness you deserve ❤

[@siljamende4978]

I love watching your Videos from every Perspektive! Mostly every year since 23 years I go to a family summerr camp of shinson hapkido (martial arts). 400 people train 30 minutes together and devide afterwards in Training groups. This year , I noticed that everytime we devided, I was thinkong " have a beautiful Day my friends!" That is only one of many tiny little Things your work changed in my life. Thank you so much, Connie! And have a beutiful Day my friend!

[@ConnieRiet]

That makes me smile soooo big! Thank you so much for sharing your story. I truly appreciate your support and love how you are spreading kind thoughts to others. Sending you thoughts of happiness & peace my friend, Connie🙏💗

[@mariamirolyubova6921]

Thank you so much, Connie, for your words of wisdom! Balanced and mindful approach in everything in life is key! Thank you for the reminder! Best regards from Ukraine!

[@gloriayouchisonbrown7734]

Connie, spoken so eloquently ❤you have helped me on my journey.

[@susanp2349]

I would really enjoy watching how you interact when you are not alone or travel when there are crowds.

[@ConnieRiet]

Good timing! I happened to make a video about this very thing when I was in Munich. You might find it interesting. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmTYp6CeebarZ7c

[@Dr.GForensic]

I am so glad your journey has brought you to this reality of truth about minimalism. - Dr. G

[@catherinem4130]

Connie, I love the things you share....this one especially touches my heart. I am far far from a minimalist, and not sure I can go as far as I've seen so many do, but I am curious......to what it "feels" like....BUT you explain so much and I'm grateful! Thank you for your inspiring touching videos!:)

[@ConnieRiet]

You are so welcome! Thank you so much for your support

[@702desertmom]

Great video Connie! Thanks for the reminder to go at our own pace 😊

[@cksaporta]

Thank you for this personally timely subject. I was starting to wonder what exactly I need to get rid of to live a fulfilling life.

[@ConnieRiet]

You are so welcome!

[@zero_point777]

"Detachment is not that you own nothing. Detachment is that nothing owns you."

[@anetti53]

That’s strange. I can easily can give up with all of way I having. Don’t feel THAT much concrete with what I poses. But it n the other hand I feel so good and cosying by all my goodies 😊

[@faribayagoobian7721]

Obsession on any form , shape and size is not healthy !

[@kodeywhitewolf6408]

Yes this "minimalism" has been a good journey for me. Unfortunately my partner is not on board, but, I'm good at where I am with my "stuff". I love your insight & always look forward to (past & present) to your videos

[@ConnieRiet]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@dippin1523]

I could never get rid of my music and stereo

[@chantalt690]

I notice that my family members quietly also starting to let go of things. It took a while but we are now in the same line. Do we need this really or does it take up our space and time 🎉

[@AnaGiselle777]

Hi Connie, You represent the woman I want to become, I still have a lot to work on, especially the fears and insecurity that often overwhelms me. I would love a video of 50 things about you, talk about your personality etc… You have a beautiful life! so interesting, you have such a bright aura! I love Connie, endless blessings to you 🤗🤍🤍🤍

[@ConnieRiet]

Oh! Ana! Thank you so much for your very kind words! They mean so much to me. It maybe time to do another Q&A. Sending you happiness and peace my friend

[@SimplyCJ1230]

Have you ever considered that getting rid of so much is an attempt to erase yourself from the world? I have often wondered this about myself.

[@pandapeek55]

Your videos are so encouraging. I am starting my journey to minimalism. I guess at my age it may be more Swedish death cleaning. 😂 I also enjoy all of the beautiful scenery in your videos. I just wish I knew where they are.

[@cathysmusic4919]

Thank you for sharing this views, it's not a one size fits all is a great way to say it. I often see a lot of very young people mostly who are starting their life's journey and who have great perspective on minimalism, I wish I had the same knowledge when I was their age, however as an almost empty nester my struggles with "stuff" is more complicated due to memories and stages of life. Your videos give a much needed perspective for me. Asante Sana (Thank you) 😊

[@ConnieRiet]

Thank you for your support! I can also relate as a new empty nester myself. All of the possessions hold so many beautiful memories happiness & peace

[@kathybreton4570]

I am 64 and I had my childhood doll in my closet. Everytime I opened the closet I questioned myself about what I shoudl do with my doll. I did not want to keep her anymore because she was not in as good of a conditon as your doll. I decided to throw her out. I washed and pressed her dress and put it away. When I get a chance I will put the dress in a shadow box or some sort of frame.

[@ConnieRiet]

Thank you for sharing you touching story! Putting the dress in a shadow box is a lovely idea.

[@cathyosullivan718]

I wonder why Connie gave up the doll if it meant that much to her? She could have brought it on her adventures!

[@ConnieRiet]

That is a wonderful question! Yes, true. I could have brought the doll with me. However, a suitcase only holds so much. 😊 I will always have my found memories of the doll regardless if I keep the doll or not. happiness & peace

[@cathyosullivan718]

@@ConnieRiet Thanks!

[@kateroth7154]

How do can I measure what percent I've decluttered? I have no idea.

[@kennethbailey9853]

I Understand.

[@janefromthecountry1820]

St Pete looks really pretty! Reminds me of Door County in Wisconsin! 🩵

[@ConnieRiet]

It's a fun little town! We just moved our youngest daughter there.

[@jimmymac2292]

I decluttered my things on the 3 month rule. If I havent used something for 3 months and likely wont in the next 3 months. I get rid of it.

[@ConnieRiet]

That's a wonderful method!

[@juliae.8237]

Thank you 🙏 ❤

[@Lovejoypeace69]

I would love to know more about your group coaching. Is there anyone that’s part of that and you have thoughts on the group coaching?

[@femkehuisman1278]

Love your videos, love that you filmed in St Pete!❤️

[@ConnieRiet]

St. Pete is a fun seaside town! We recently moved our youngest daughter there.

[@mitchducky962]

Good morning 🌄🌞 I'm Deaf and sign language my own fast two hands. Translate English language American for you 🙏🏾👍🏾💪🏾🫴🏾🫶🏾👉🏾🦻🏾🫵🏾🌹🆗🔜 hello 👋🏾

[@SilviaDiFebbo-ee6ws]

Tank you for this video, Your contenute very important for me. Puoi inserire cortesemente i sottotitoli in italiano? Renderebbe più facile seguire e comprendere a fondo i concetto che vengono espressi nei tuoi video. Tanks ❤️

[@susanasilva2931]

I liked the video. But, woman: your hair is Very beautiful!!

[@ConnieRiet]

I appreciate that

[@lynstewart4484]

Wisdom

[@ans1830]

Isn't she adorable?

[@zorrozorro8886]

Totally ❤️

[@judithwengerherr7394]

Adorable, stunning ,sexy

[@ConnieRiet]

You are very kind!

[@marciahansen8580]

are you back in the States?

[@ConnieRiet]

Great question! We are making the rounds to our children. Our youngest lives in the USA, and we have been helping her move from UT to FL. She is settled, and we are currently in Mexico.

[@marciahess8262]

❤

[@nawangdolma5860]

😍😍😍🥰🥰🤗