There’s more to life than buying stuff.
There are many wonderful people pursuing and promoting simplicity. Fortunately, some of them are gifted in communication and choose to encourage and inspire us with their words. I enjoy reading their unique perspective. I’m sure you will too.
So fix yourself a nice warm cup of coffee or tea on this beautiful weekend. Find a quiet moment. And enjoy some encouraging words about finding more simplicity in your life today.
How to Raise a Minimalist | Real Simple by Lisa Armstrong. You love your children. The avalanche of stuff that seems to come with them? Not so much. Help them feel more joy with fewer things.
Why Kids Need a Minimalist Closet + How to Create One | Raising Simple by Zoë Kim. When our little people are overwhelmed by clutter, it’s our job to help them simplify.
How to Declutter Your Life (the very best place to start) | Be More with Less by Courtney Carver. The most popular question about decluttering or simplifying is, “What’s the best way to start?” The next most popular question is, “How long will it take?”
Why Experiences (not Things) Get Better with Time, According to Science | No Sidebar by Jay Harrington. There is a massive body of work in the field of behavioral psychology that suggests the “hedonic superiority” of experiential over material purchases.
5 Quick Ways To Start Decluttering Today | Break the Twitch by Anthony Ongaro. Here are some ways to start decluttering that will make a difference in your life today.
How to Be a Minimalist with Kids | Joshua Becker on YouTube. (4:42)
I think we hugely underestimate the impact commercials have on all of us. We switched to Netflix a few years ago and also purchase the odd TV series (only our true favorites!). After years of essentially no commercials (not even fast forwarding through them) when I do see them, I see them in a new light. I see them for what they are. It’s had such a positive impact on our 3 kids (6 year old twins and a 3 year old). When they do see commercials elsewhere they understand commercials are about convincing us to buy something, and we are able to have regular conversations about making wise choices with our money. Great article!
On another note, I’ve been on my minimalism journey for two years now, my husband can really see the benefits, and we are no longer drowning in “kids stuff” – the physical boundaries tip really does work well if you stick to it! We recently purchased our dream country property in our ideal location within our budget because we were willing to accept a smaller house. We’re downsizing! ? But we know we can do it now. The journey and hard work is worth it!
Thank you for sharing your story Joshua and for the sound advice and inspiration from others.
I think minimalism can be applied to diet as well. Go back to basics like a simple organic potatoes. Simple proteins. Too much food is covered with advertisements of a tasty sort. One should visit with a Dr. First and ask about it but simple foods like potatoes arguably are rich in nutrients. It also saves time, money and hassle. Meat is good a few times a week. But people should rethink it.
I second “Why Kids Need a Minimalist Closet + How to Create One.” Two years ago, we got rid of our kids’ chest of drawers and opted for a simple open cube system in their closets. Before my kids, who are both still very young, couldn’t ever find what they wanted to wear and would get frustrated.
Now they can see all of their options, which are by and large fairly minimal compared to the typical child’s wardrobe.
They pick their clothes out at night before bed, and mornings are mostly a breeze for them getting ready for school on time.