Inspiring Simplicity. Weekend Reads.

It has been a very exciting week for us. On Monday, we released a new book, Clutterfree with Kids. Within hours of its launch, it became the #1 Parenting book in America. It was recognized by Amazon as a Hot New Release. And at one point, it was the 7th most popular nonfiction book on Amazon.

After the launch, a friend of mine asked if I had thought the book was going to do so well. I told him I really thought it would, but you never know for sure until the book is actually launched. I knew the struggle was real—that parents are overwhelmed by the amount of clutter in their homes and lives. I have seen the negative effects of a consumer-driven culture on society. And I had seen the eyes of countless parents light up when I mentioned the title of the book. But still, you never really know for sure. I’m glad it is doing so well. The message of the book is important.

This coming week will be equally exciting. I have a few media appearances lined up to talk about the book. In my own neighborhood, I am beginning a 7-week live class on the topic of rethinking money (if you are in Phoenix, come join us on Thursday nights). I’ll be speaking next weekend in Nebraska. And I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed that the book continues to get in the hands of those who need it.

But luckily, I am not the only one writing on the joy and importance of simplicity and owning less. There is a growing movement to rediscover the life-giving benefits of overcoming consumerism. It is a pleasure to be part of it. I know how important it is to find encouragement and inspiration for your journey. You’ll find some here. Grab some hot coffee or tea, and enjoy some encouraging words to inspire more simplicity in your life today.

Why We’re So Materialistic (Even Though We Know It’s Dumb) | WiseBread by Tara Struyk. The truth is that most us have way more than what’s required to meet our basic needs, more than is required to make our lives more convenient and comfortable, and even more than what we need to keep us happy.

You are Only as Busy as You Think You Are | Fast Company by Laura Vanderkam. A beautiful conversation on the value of changing perspective.

Minimalism: An Elevator Pitch | The Minimalists by Joshua Fields Millburn & Ryan Nicodemus. Minimalism is a lifestyle that helps people question what things add value to their lives.

How Competition Made Me Less Successful | Storyline by Joshua Becker. I am beginning to see there may be a better way to live—one that focuses less on competition and more on encouragement.

For the Love of Money | New York Times by Sam Polk. Maybe we can all make a real contribution to the world.

Clutterfree with Kids. Kindle | Nook | Kobo | PDF | Paperback. If you have not purchased a copy of Clutterfree with Kids, I hope you will. The book is inspirational, practical, and relevant. It has been endorsed by Peter Walsh, Leo Babauta, Kimberley Blaine, and numerous others. And this weekend, it is available for only $2.99. So get it today.

Image: Kuba Bożanowski