I want you to know you matter to me.
In a world filled with noise and superficiality, this may seem like just another statement. But, it’s not. I mean it.
You matter to me. And I wanted to take an article to make sure you know that.
Whenever I sit down to write, I have you in mind.
I don’t write for a faceless crowd, to rank high on Google, or with a clickbait title just hoping to drive clicks to a website. I write for you—individuals who have made an intentional choice for simplicity and a life that resonates with authenticity and meaning.
You matter to me because you are trying to live the best life that you can live—just like me. You want to be an engaged parent, a better friend, a more effective leader, a better neighbor, or a more engaged member of your faith community—passionately active in the lives of the people around you.
You’ve determined there are more important pursuits in life than material possessions. And so you are here, reading these articles and these ideas, because you value life’s quality over the quantity of stuff in it. And so you inspire me.
You pursue owning less to elevate your greatest values. So do I.
You matter to me because of the bold steps you’ve taken to embrace a countercultural lifestyle, working hard to push back against a culture that surrounds us and begs to acquire more and more.
You are here because you have decided life is too valuable to waste chasing and accumulating material possessions. Why else would you be reading this blog except that you dream of something bigger and greater.
That matters to me.
And you matter to me.
Please know that I work hard to show up for you with messages that inspire, motivate, encourage, and challenge all of us—myself included—to live an intentional life focused on things that matter.
I think a lot of times these types of messages can fall into, “I appreciate you because you support my work and allow me to do what I do.” And while that is true, that is not what I am saying today.
This is about me articulating something I don’t say enough: I truly care about you.
It means a lot to me that you are part of this community. It means even more that you have the courage to show up and live in alignment with a philosophy that values authenticity over acquisition.
My role in the world, as I see it, is to encourage and inspire people to own less and live more. That’s my passion and my commitment. As you read these articles every week, you are an active participant in this mission. You represent a change in the world—a shift in priorities and passion.
In this journey towards minimalism and intentional living, I want you to know that you are seen, you are appreciated, and you matter.
You are more than a comment or a message in my inbox, you are a real person, flesh and blood, on the other side of the keyboard sending me that message. And I read them all.
And for that reason, I care about you.
Even though we’ve never met, I want you to know today, and every day, that you matter to me.
Rosie Knighton says
Thank you! I’m not someone who buys much, I’m not interested in consumerism but I do have too much clutter. It’s come from holding on to things from my past, things from my childhood and things from all stages since. My youngest child has just started school, he’s 4 they start them young in the UK, and I’m thinking about the future and I’m finally able to let things go. My eldest children are home educating and are with me 24/7 and they need me emotionally. I really need the weight of the past gone so I can be here for them in the present.
I find your words inspiring and am listening to your latest book on Audible as I work. Thank you for being a guiding light.
Marta Barbachano says
Thank you so much, Joshua! I do feel seen and read your posts and your replies in the Unclutter posts. I’m blessed to be part of this community and thankful for you gentle guidance. Life is amazing, and this time is amazing. This time, where we can reach across miles and space and even time, and build this community is marvelous, magnificent, miraculous. Thank you for making it happen. Grace and peace to you.
Alvin says
Your inspiration lightens my load. I feel stress-free with fewer decision to be made and keep my mind fresh everyday 🙏🙏🙏 Greatly appreciate.
Wendy Donahue says
💜
Lucy Maestas scheer says
I started this process based on Zen Buddhism and then stumbled upon your page and follow it religiously. Thank you so much. Less is more…
Linda says
Thank you Joshua, for caring. Your message means a lot to me, and to many other people, I’m sure. You encourage people to be their best selves and help change the world, as you are doing with your messages, your Orphan Foundation, and the way you live and love every day. God Bless you and all people and animals.
Sharon says
I so appreciate your constant support. Just when I feel like I’m going under you send me a new life line to remove something else I haven’t use in years. Thank you for your care and work.
Ed White says
Thank you for caring Josh. I just stumbled across this website and now find myself captivated by your articles. Regrettably, I was often ashamed of my small home that my wife and l bought 33 years ago and still live in today. Thought it was never good enough. My friends and family members all moved to progressively bigger and (supposedly) better homes. Some even negatively commenting on how we could live in such a small place with only one bathroom! Well, looking back, l am sure glad that we stayed put. Lots of happy memories at this little house. I guess that l was a practicing minimalist before l even knew that it was a “thing”. And l am glad that l found this website. Thanks again!
Mary Piche says
❤️
Connie R. Cuyos says
Thank you for this inspiring messages you did that are meant for us. I do really appreciate it much.
Nicolette Ferreira says
Sitting on the other side of the screen and reading this – I so needed an uplifting message today, as I am feeling overwhelmed. Like in I don’t know where to start tackling things in my life, and anxiety is right at my doorstep. Thank you for sending out some love, and for writing and getting together all these messages and posts.
From your biggest fan in South Africa!