Never underestimate the importance of removing stuff you don’t need.
Encouragement is important in all areas of life, but especially when trying to live a life different than those around us.
Encouragement provides us with motivation to persevere. It invites us to dream dreams of significance for our lives. And it begs us to work diligently with optimism and promise.
Overcoming the pull of consumerism is a difficult challenge regardless of our stage in life. Simplicity requires encouragement. To that end, I hope you will find motivation in these articles below.
Each post was intentionality chosen to inspire simplicity in your life. For maximum effect, find a quiet moment this weekend and enjoy them with a fresh cup of coffee or tea.
Rules for Getting Organized & Decluttered | Zen Habits by Leo Babauta. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, I’m here to testify that it’s not impossible, and it just takes some small steps that add up over time.
Valuing Your Time More Than Money is Linked to Happiness | SPSP. Having more free time is more important for happiness than having more money.
The Benefit of Simple Living That No One Talks About | No Sidebar by Erica Layne. A simple life allows the gift of being present.
J says
Love the rules for getting organized – thanks for sharing! I also find taking an hour or two on Saturday one of the best ways to keep ahead of the clutter.
julia says
Now when I walk through my house, I have a filter that says “hey, I bet I could get rid of that!” Much more uplifting than “my house is driving me crazy!”
Judy says
Same here, Julia :)
John P. Weiss says
I identify with the article about valuing time over money. I chose years ago to work in a small town police department over a larger, higher paying one. I live in town and have no commute. I have time to come home, walk my dogs and visit family. Time to write and paint is more important to me than BMW’s and status symbols!
Eve says
Another great weekend read, the moment I started looking at the ongoing process in stead of looking at the end result the decluttering journey really started to make sense. It’s a long process but every time another box is let go off I feel lighter.
Julie Freidell says
I love the whimsy article. As a parent, her words really resonate with me. I love that my journey in simple living has a great impact on memories for my little ones, as well. Thank you, Joshua, for keeping this community connected through sharing your favorite articles, I always look forward to reading the “weekend reads”.
Erica Layne says
Just wanted to say I’m so glad you enjoyed the whimsy article! And I am with you all the way—so grateful my journey means more special memories for my family. Thanks for reading, Julie!
Erica Layne says
I’m honored that my post at No Sidebar is a part of this! Thank you, Joshua!
Julie Freidell says
Erica, I loved it! Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us. From another simple living mama :)
Nicolette says
I think I am your biggest fan from South Africa!! :-D When I read the Zen Habits post and the ‘rule’ of aiming for three emails only in your inbox, I knew without a doubt that Becoming Minimalist is the only newsletter I would never unsubscribe from. If I could only choose one subscription – this would be it! Feeling so inspired – thank you!!
joshua becker says
Wow Nicolette. You’re words are very encouraging to me. Thank you so much.
Ann says
Thank you for your continued encouragement and guidance!
“I want to know what I have and where it is” has been my mantra for the past year. Years I suppose.
Layers of clothes that no longer serve a purpose for me, books that have already been read, and furniture in “waiting” that just hasn’t found a proper place in my home have been donated. Each purge a mission of discovery. Hidden treasures have been restored to their rightful place in my life or let go.
Shelves are no longer cramped. Closets no longer crammed. Rooms blossom as they provide space for life to happen.
I haven’t finished. There is more to uncover but I’m encouraged and energized by the process and my dreams are expanding exponentially as tangible burdens of the past are removed.
I wanna be free…
Andy says
For me, these ‘weekend reading’ posts by far add the greatest valu to my time. It really brightens my day when the email drops in the inbox. Keep up the great work and, remember, what you do really matters to me :-)
Judy says
Andy, that is so sweet! I’m sure Joshua gets a tickle out of comments like yours!!!
So kind :)
Judy says
Have a great weekend, Joshua. I’m so up for this! :)
It’s getting easier and easier to let go of the clutter. The end result is so fulfilling. “Never underestimate the importance of removing stuff you don’t need”. Love it!!! :) :) :)