Joshua Becker's Blog, page 16

10 Ways to Simplify Your Holiday Season

For many of us, the holiday season holds a special place in our hearts. It’s a time to focus on faith, gratitude, celebration, and cherishing moments with family.

But too often, the beauty of this season gets overshadowed by rush and busyness. Not to mention the stress of over-commitment, excessive spending, and unrealistic expectations.

As the holiday season officially begins, let’s remember that simplifying our holiday season can actually magnify our joy and allow us to focus on what truly matters.

Simplicity isn’t about cutting back on joy. Simplicity is about promoting the values and actions that bring real joy by removing the distractions that keep us from it.

To that end, here are ten practical, family-friendly ways to simplify your holiday season.

Some may be more exciting and applicable to you than others, but that’s fine. My only hope is to spark a new idea that you can embrace to make the most of this special season of the year.

1. Limit Gift-Giving

Reducing the number of gifts you buy isn’t about being stingy; it’s about refocusing on what’s important. Consider setting a limit on the number of gifts for each person or doing a gift exchange. This doesn’t mean you need to spend less, but shopping for more and more for the sole reason of making the tree look piled away with boxes is unnecessary.

This shift can reduce stress, and will also probably result in less clutter in the long-term.

2. Learn to Say No

You don’t have to attend every holiday event or gathering. Prioritize the ones that are most meaningful to you and your family. Politely declining invitations can free up time to enjoy the season at a more relaxed pace.

Holiday parties can be a wonderful opportunity to connect with friends and family and co-workers. But if the calendar is resulting in stress just by looking at it, learn to say no politely.

3. Avoid Holiday Debt

Steering clear of debt during the holidays is a gift to both your present and future self. If you think overspending is going to relieve your stress because everyone will be so happy with all the things you purchased, you are overestimating how much joy purchased items can bring… and underestimating how much joy an undistracted and focused you truly is to your family and friends.

Create a reasonable budget and stick to it. Remember, the best memories often come from shared experiences, not expensive gifts.

4. Simplify Decorations

Decorating for the holidays can be delightful, but it doesn’t have to be elaborate. Choose a few meaningful decorations that bring you joy and create a cozy, festive atmosphere without the clutter.

In our home, we have one box of holiday decorations that are meaningful to us and help elevate the meaning of the season in our family. In fact, we’ve found that eliminating the unnecessary allows the most necessary to speak louder in our home.

5. Define Your Season’s Purpose

“Keep your main thing the main thing,” as the old saying goes.

But here’s the problem: We can’t keep the main thing the main thing until we know what the main thing even is! If the goal of your holiday season is to be with family, give gifts, hang out with co-workers, rest, watch holiday movies, look at lights, reconnect with your loved ones, celebrate your faith, go to lots of parties, drink and be merry, bake lots of cookies, take time off of work, play video games, buy things for yourself at discount, and go sledding with your buddies… you’re going to get stressed.

Before the huge rush of holiday activities and opportunities get into full swing, take a moment to define what the holiday season most means to you and your family. Whether it’s about faith, gratitude, family, or celebration, let this purpose guide your decisions and help you stay focused on what truly matters.

6. Manage Children’s Expectations

The holiday season can create a frenzy of expectations in children. And too often, we are the ones at fault. We talk about “Santa Claus” and “gifts” and “stockings” and “wait until Christmas morning” like the entire Amazon catalog is going to be under the tree.

Be smart in how you talk about the holiday season with your children—especially the younger ones. Yes, most likely, people who love them will express their love through gifts. But your kids won’t get everything they want, and even those trying their best might not always choose the right gifts.

But if you’ve defined your family’s purpose and have taken the time to remind your kids what is most important, expectations can be better managed—and so can your stress level in trying to meet them.

7. Delegate and Trust Others

Embracing the spirit of trust and delegation can significantly ease holiday stress. If your spouse is managing the holiday meal, let them take the lead. If a family member is organizing a Christmas Eve gathering, trust their judgment and skills. Just like a good manager delegates tasks to focus on the bigger picture, apply the same principle during the holidays.

Offer help and stay involved, but resist the urge to micromanage every detail. This approach not only lightens your load but also empowers others, often leading to wonderfully unexpected outcomes. Remember, the holiday season is about togetherness and shared experiences, not perfection in every plan and event.

8. Focus on Your Health and Well-being

Maintain your regular healthy habits during the holiday season. Eating well and staying active are not just good for the body. They’re crucial for mental health, especially during busy times.

9. Seek Reconciliation

The holidays can be an opportune time for healing and reconciliation. Reach out, make amends, or simply extend a gesture of goodwill. The closer you used to be with someone who is currently estranged, the harder you should work for peace.

But won’t this bring more stress into your holiday season? I don’t think so.

An attitude of bitterness, anger, or unforgiveness toward someone else brings more stress into our lives than we think. And even if we genuinely offer our hand and heart in reconciliation and it is rejected, we can sleep confidently and peacefully knowing that we have handled our side of the equation in a manner that brings us peace—even if the other half chose not to.

10. Identify What Brings You Joy

Take note of which holiday activities bring you genuine happiness. Maybe it’s baking cookies, caroling, or just spending quiet evenings with loved ones. Prioritize these activities and let go of the ones that don’t bring you the same joy.

Now, that doesn’t mean we don’t agree to do some things simply because they bring joy to those we love. But deep down, don’t you find a little joy in selflessness anyway?

As we embrace the holiday season, let’s remember that simplifying isn’t about diminishing the joy or significance of our celebrations. It’s about creating space for more meaningful experiences and connections.

A simplified holiday season can be richer, warmer, and more fulfilling. It’s within this simplicity that we often find the deepest joy and the most lasting memories. Let’s choose a holiday season that reflects the true desires of our hearts—and let’s begin today.

The post 10 Ways to Simplify Your Holiday Season appeared first on Becoming Minimalist.

Ten Things You Could Accomplish By Taking Small Steps

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” —Lao Tzu

It’s really easy to feel overwhelmed at the thought of accomplishing big dreams or towering goals.

In fact, we sometimes look at the accomplishments of others—a published book, a successful business, a fit body—and think to ourselves, “How in the world are they able to do things like that?”

That question is immediately followed by the next thought, “I could never do anything like that. It is way too difficult.” And so, we never even try.

That is exactly what happens when we focus on the end product rather than all the little steps that were taken along the way.

Because the truth is, every significant achievement in life is only the result of small, consistent steps taken over time.

Nothing substantial is accomplished overnight.

But incredible feats are always within reach when we commit to making steady, ongoing progress.

To prove my point, here are ten life-changing goals you could accomplish by simply taking small, consistent steps:

1. Writing a Book

The thought of writing an entire novel or non-fiction book can be daunting. But writing just 500 words a day adds up to a substantial manuscript in less than a year. Every great book starts with one single word… and then another… and then another…

2. Running a Marathon

The 26.2 miles of a marathon might seem impossible from the couch. But nobody runs a marathon by running 26 miles their first day. You start with short runs and gradually increase distance—one mile at a time—until your body adapts, and before you know it, you’re crossing the finish line.

3. Starting a Business

Every successful business began as an idea. And the only thing that separates a business from an idea is that someone decided to act upon it. But almost always, by taking small steps like creating a business plan, researching steps online, and making initial contacts, you lay the groundwork for future success.

4. Losing 50 Pounds

Weight loss is often best achieved and sustained through small, manageable lifestyle changes rather than drastic diets. Consistent, healthy choices lead to significant results over time. But it always starts with changing what you eat at just one meal.

5. Decluttering Your Home

Tackling one drawer, one shelf, or one corner at a time can transform a large cluttered space into a peaceful haven. Small decluttering sessions eventually result into a beautifully organized living space.

6. Learning a New Language

Mastering a new language is a huge undertaking. But dedicating even just 15 minutes a day to learning new words or phrases can lead to fluency over time.

7. Saving for Retirement

The prospect of saving enough for retirement can be overwhelming. However, consistently setting aside a small percentage of your income, over a long period of time, will build a comfortable nest egg.

8. Building Strong Relationships

Great relationships are built on small acts of kindness, regular communication, and consistent effort. A text, a call, or a coffee date, steadily nurtured, builds a lifetime bond.

9. Learning a Musical Instrument

By dedicating just 15 to 30 minutes each day to learning scales, chords, or simple songs, you gradually develop skill, and timing, and eventually muscle memory (or so I’m told). Over time, these brief daily practices lead to playing complex pieces.

10. Creating Art

Whether it’s sketching, painting, sculpting, or digital art, start by setting aside a small amount of time each day to create something. Even a quick 30-minute session of expressing your creativity contributes significantly over time.

Look at that list!

It is, in many ways, a testament to the power of taking small steps in achieving big dreams. Each of those big accomplishments could be accomplished by taking only small steps.

Robert Collier once said, “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.“

And here’s the best part: This principle isn’t just limited to the ten examples I’ve listed above!

The principle applies to almost every dream we have or goal we want to accomplish.

Whatever your dream or aspiration may be, whether it’s climbing a mountain, writing a symphony, building a community, or solving a problem that you see in the world, the approach remains the same: start small, stay consistent.

The beauty of small steps is that they make any goal approachable and provide the opportunity to start making progress today—no matter how small.

You don’t have to change your entire life in a day, a week, or even a year. But with each small step, you’ll be closer than you were yesterday.

So, if there’s a dream tucked away in your heart, a vision you’ve held back from pursuing, or a goal that seems just out of reach—now is the time to get started.

Don’t wait for the perfect moment or the grand plan. Don’t believe the dream is too big or needs to be accomplished overnight. Start where you are, with what you have, and do what you can.

Your dreams are valid and achievable. The only question that remains is: What small step will we take today to make them a reality?

The post Ten Things You Could Accomplish By Taking Small Steps appeared first on Becoming Minimalist.

15 Questions That Will Forever Change How You View Possessions

When was the last time you sat down and considered the role possessions play in your life? We live in a world that screams at us from every angle that more is better, that possessions equal success, and that happiness can be purchased at a store.

But if you’ve ever felt a disconnect between what culture says and what your heart feels, you’re not alone.

As we all seek to make the most of the one life we have to live, let’s ask ourselves challenging questions about the things we own. These questions can challenge our worldview and assumptions, and even shift our perspective and liberate us from the weight of consumerism.

Here are 15 questions to ponder, each with the power to forever change how you view the possessions in your life:

1. How much money have I spent on the things I own?

Reflect on the total cost of your possessions. Not just in terms of money, but also the time, energy, and opportunities sacrificed.

2. How much time have I wasted cleaning and organizing all my stuff?

Consider the hours spent maintaining your belongings—not just currently but added up over the course of your life. Could this time have been spent on activities that more enriched your life?

3. Is there a reason why I am not content with all that I own and continue to buy more?

Probe the deeper reasons behind your continual desire for more. Is it a search for happiness, acceptance, fulfillment, or something else? Why don’t you feel completely content with all that you have already?

4. Who will bear the responsibility of caring for all this when I’m gone?

Imagine the burden your possessions could become to others after you pass away. Is this the legacy you wish to leave?

5. What are some of the things I could have spent all this money on?

Dream about the experiences, education, freedom, or generosity that could have been realized with the resources you used to accumulate possessions.

6. Do my possessions reflect my values and what I consider most important in life?

Evaluate whether your belongings align with your core beliefs and life goals. Are they tools for your values or distractions from them?

7. What could I achieve if I weren’t weighed down by so much stuff?

Envision the goals and dreams that could be pursued if you were liberated from the excess.

8. How many people have found happiness owning far less than I do now?

Consider the countless lives filled with joy and fulfillment with far fewer possessions. What can their contentment teach us about our own pursuit of happiness?

9. Am I holding onto things out of fear or a need for security?

Challenge the notion that your security lies in material wealth. Could letting go actually bring greater peace and assurance as you open yourself to look elsewhere?

10. How would my daily routine improve with fewer possessions?

Picture a day with less to clean, less to organize, and less to worry about. What does this simplicity look like for you?

11. Do the possessions I own represent the life I want to live in the present and future?

Reflect on whether your possessions reflect your current aspirations and the path you wish to take moving forward. If they mostly echo the past, it may be time to realign your possessions with the life you’re actively choosing.

12. What would happen if I stopped trying to impress others with what I own?

Imagine a life where your worth isn’t tied to material symbols. How would this freedom change your relationships and self-perception?

13. Could I live in a smaller space if I owned less?

Envision the possibility and benefits of living in a smaller, more manageable space. How might downsizing your possessions open up new living arrangements and opportunities?

14. How do my possessions shape my identity and how others view me?

Consider the message your belongings send about who you are. Are they an accurate representation of your identity?

15. What still remains on my bucket list to accomplish?

Consider the aspirations and dreams you’ve yet to fulfill. Often, they’re not related to owning more but experiencing more. Reflect on how owning less could free up resources, time, and energy to achieve these lifelong dreams.

These questions aren’t meant to guilt or shame any of us into action.

Instead, they are designed only to prompt introspection and new thoughts. And hopefully inspire a more intentional approach to the things we own.

As we seek answers, we may discover that less isn’t just more; it’s the pathway to the freedom we’ve been searching for all along.

So, take your time with these questions. Let them sit with you. Each one, slowly and deliberately.

And as you ponder these questions, you might just find that the possessions you once thought were essential are the very things you can live—and live well—without.

The post 15 Questions That Will Forever Change How You View Possessions appeared first on Becoming Minimalist.

Wanting What Someone Else Has

Most people, it seems to me, want what others have.

It’s actually a pretty familiar scene we’ve seen play out in our lives and others: the desire for the big new beautiful home when visiting friends, the moment of longing as a fancy car pulls up nearby, the envy for the latest fashion or the closet full of designer shoes. Even witnessing a stranger with the newest tech gadget can stir up feelings of jealousy and envy.

Of course, this craving for what others have isn’t new to humanity. In fact, it’s a sentiment so common (and destructive) that it can even be found listed as a warning among the Ten Commandments alongside murder, adultery, and stealing.

But in today’s culture, jealousy and envy seem easier than ever. Social media, television, and savvy marketers constantly bombard us with images of what we’re told we should want and what “everyone else” already has and why we’re missing out on more magical lives if we don’t also own it.

Desiring what others have may be as old as mankind itself. But I wonder if there’s wisdom in changing how we think about that.

For example, when we see a shiny new thing in the hands of another and wish it was ours, are we even longing for the right things?

Aren’t there actually some things that other people have that would be far more valuable to us? I think there are. But none of them are material possessions.

When we reflect on the individuals we truly admire in the deepest of our hearts, the ones who seem to have the life we most aspire to, we must dig deeper and ask ourselves: Is it truly their possession accumulation we wish to emulate, or is there something more substantial at the core of our admiration?

Are the people we most want to be like actually the ones who own the nicest stuff? Maybe, but that is not always the case. And almost every one of us can think of someone who has something we want… but isn’t living a luxurious lifestyle.

In fact, in our deepest moments of honesty, the most profound admiration we hold is seldom for those with the grandest possessions. Instead, our greatest respect and desire to emulate tends to gravitate towards individuals of exceptional character.

It is those who showcase resiliency, kindness, honesty, compassion, gentleness, goodness, love, and generosity that we find ourselves truly wanting to replicate.

These are the attributes that leave a lasting impact, far outshining the temporary gleam of the latest gadget or luxury car. And when we consider the choice of “wanting what others have” maybe those are the things that should top our list.

Consider for a moment the people who’ve truly influenced your life. Perhaps a teacher whose belief in you was unwavering, a friend whose loyalty never faltered, a pastor who modeled love for others, or a family member whose love was unconditional.

It’s the essence of their character we cherish, the memory of their virtues that continues to guide us long after they’ve left our side.

Someone once said, “True wealth is not measured in money or status or power. It is measured in the legacy we leave behind for those we love and those we inspire.”

And maybe that very true statement about where to find true wealth should influence our desires a bit more.

Envy has a cousin: Emulation. Those we envy the most become the role models we tend to learn from. Maybe we can use this thought to flip the script on envy. But only if we do a better job of identifying that which we truly desire in other people.

And only if we do a better job of specifically and intentionally investing time and effort to become that which we desire.

Being kind costs zero, but it does take effort to develop. The same is true of resilience, honesty, compassion, love, generosity, and any other character trait worth developing.

So how can we look at the character that others have and begin to make it a reality in our own lives?

Here are some actionable steps you can start right now, today, wherever you are:

Reflect on What You Desire Most

Take some time alone, with your thoughts, wrestling with the question of what has become the object of your envy? What are the emotions that spring up when you see “things” that other people have that you don’t? Is there something, deep-down, that you actually desire to be more true of your life? And if so, how can you become more focused on that?

Seek Inspiration Thoughtfully

Surround yourself with stories of those who’ve embodied the virtues you aspire to. Biographies of great leaders, activists, and thinkers can serve as a roadmap to developing a rich character. But you can also look closer to home: Who are the family members (maybe extended), co-workers, or people in your community that embody the life you desire?

Ask Lots of Questions

Engage with people who model the traits you value. Reach out, invite them for a conversation, learn about their journey, their challenges, and their practices. Most will be honored that you asked. And bring as many specific questions as you can.

Start a Daily Practice

Virtues are habits of the heart. They require daily cultivation. Choose one character trait you wish to develop and take one action daily that embodies this trait. You can start today on this without any of the previous steps. But the steps above will provide extra motivation.

Pursue Community

As the old saying goes, “We are the average of the five people we spend the most time with.” Choose to be around people who live out the virtues you wish to embrace. Their influence will be both subtle and substantial.

Reflect and Journal

Self-reflection aids growth. Keep a journal of your progress, your struggles, and your successes in developing new character traits.

Celebrate (Others and Yourself)

When you see someone exhibiting a character quality you admire, acknowledge it. This not only affirms the value of the virtue but reinforces your desire for it.

Likewise, when you see yourself putting a character trait into action, celebrate your progress. You don’t have to be perfect to be on the right path.

Teach and Mentor

Maybe I’m getting ahead of myself here, but the best way to solidify a virtue within yourself is to model it and teach it to others. So share your experiences with others—what you’ve been working on and why. It won’t be long before someone starts asking you how to have some of what you now have.

As an added benefit, the more we integrate these practices into our lives, the less impressive external possessions become. We start to find joy in the pursuit of personal growth and the development of a character that not only serves us well but also contributes positively to the lives of those around us.

By focusing on who we are becoming rather than what we are acquiring, we transform not only our own lives but set an example for others to follow. After all, in the end, we won’t be remembered for the size of our house or the make of our car, but for the depth of our compassion and the strength of our character.

Hopefully, we live a life that is remembered for those things.

The post Wanting What Someone Else Has appeared first on Becoming Minimalist.

How to Give Gifts in a Culture Where Everyone Already Buys Everything They Want

Finding the perfect gift for loved ones seems more daunting than ever. Not because they need more, but precisely because they don’t.

There is a common phrase we use during the holiday season that you’ve almost certainly heard and have probably asked yourself, “What do you buy for someone who already has everything?”

Not that long ago, that was something you said about your wealthy boss or super-rich uncle. But now, in a society where human beings own more material objects than at any point in human history, “the person who already owns everything” is most of us.

As a result, finding the perfect gift has become more stressful than ever.

Most people nowadays, who are wrapped up in the whirlwind of consumer culture, have already bought all the things they want or need. They’re not waiting for Christmas morning to receive what they want, they’re just clicking to ship on Amazon and getting it delivered by the very next morning.

Santa Claus doesn’t come down the chimney on Christmas Eve anymore; he arrives in an Amazon truck every day of the week.

Gift-giving has become a game of guessing what unconsidered product might delight our loved ones, who, throughout the year, have already accumulated all the things they need and most of the things they knew they wanted.

This conundrum leaves us buying gifts for the sake of tradition, rather than need.

How do we give gifts in a culture where everyone already buys everything they want?

First, we need to resist the urge to let marketers and sales solve our problem for us. When we can’t think of what to give someone, too often, our impulse reaction is to scan the sales, the Black Friday ads, or walk mindlessly up and down aisles at Target hoping to let the store show us what to buy.

Relying on businesses to tell us what to give as gifts will only result in us gifting the gifts businesses want us to give. If you absolutely have to give a physical gift, think of the items you used recently that were genuinely helpful in moving your life forward.

But here are some alternative approaches:

Consider the charm of experiences. No experience is ever the same. Plus, they’re the gifts that result in connection, laughter, and growth. Whether it’s tickets to a local play, a promise of a home-cooked meal, or a voucher for a dance lesson, these gifts offer something that no store can stock – time spent together.

Handmade gifts come next, brimming with personal touch and thoughtfulness. Again, they are entirely original and unrepetitive. They stand out in a sea of mass-produced items—and can never be purchased on a whim during a late-night online shopping spree. A hand-knit scarf, a personal poem, or a personalized playlist can sometimes convey affection in ways that a purchased item cannot.

Another idea is to give the gift of your time. The most valuable gift you can offer someone is your time because when you give your time you are giving a portion of your life that you will never get back. Offer to help your sister paint her kitchen, take your nephew out for a day at the zoo, or schedule an afternoon hanging out with your mother. It’s about being there for each other.

Another thoughtful approach is to consider a gift that gives back—gifts that contribute to a cause or charity. These gifts resonate with the spirit of the season, spreading joy beyond the immediate circle of giver and receiver and enriching the lives of others.

Each of these is an idea to help you think differently about gifts rather than just buying “something” at a store to fulfill an expectation.

But maybe the greatest gift you can give is the gift of not needing to exchange gifts.

First of all, if you are someone that already owns everything you need (and want), you can lower the stress level of your loved ones during the holiday by telling them not to buy you a gift this holiday season. Or, better yet, tell them you’d like to go out for a nice dinner with everyone, and that would be the best holiday gift anyone could give you.

Being clear and taking the initiative among your family this holiday season will provide the added benefit of allowing them to enjoy their season with less stress.

Sometimes, the best gift might be the gift of release from expectation. Suggesting a ‘no-gift’ agreement or asking loved ones to donate to a charity on your behalf can relieve pressure and refocus the holiday spirit on what truly matters.

And if you are in a family where the current holiday arrangement is everyone buying gifts for everyone else who already has everything, suggest a new idea this holiday season. You could try offering “no gifts at all this year,” but that might be a tough sell. Some intermediary steps are “giving gifts to only the kids,” “exchanging names,” or “just one gift to the entire family rather than each individual.”

Several years ago, my family decided to stop buying gifts for the adults. And have loved it ever since.

This holiday season, let’s redefine our approach to gifting. Let’s make it less about the items and more about the message they carry.

After all, almost everyone is buying whatever they want all year long already.

As we embrace a new perspective on presents, we might just find that the greatest gift we can give is a little more simplicity in a world cluttered with choices.

Inspiring Simplicity. Weekend Reads.

Living with less creates space for more: more time, more peace, and more joy.

At the heart of minimalism is the realization that our possessions often distract us from meaning and happiness. Minimalism is about freeing ourselves from the weight of unnecessary possessions and experiencing the freedom that comes from living lightly.

Every other week, I gather articles that inspire and motivate us to lead simpler lives. The goal is to equip everyone with the courage to let go and the determination to live with less. 

So I encourage everyone to take a quiet moment this weekend with a hot cup of coffee or tea to enjoy these articles and reflect on their message.

The 20 Greatest Decluttering Tips of All Time | No Sidebar. As you journey through these 20 decluttering tips, you may feel the urge to overhaul your entire space all at once.

5 Things I’ve Learned in 5 Years of Living as a Minimalist | Rich in What Matters by Julia Ubbenga. I let go of 75% of my possessions and stopped buying more because I realized I didn’t need more. The lightness I felt was immediate.

Say Goodbye to These 9 Things if You Want to Live a Simpler and More Minimalist Life | Hack Spirit by Amy Reed. Think the minimalist life is just what you need? Check out these 9 things you need to say goodbye to if you want to live a simpler and more minimalist life.

How I Get Things Done | Zen Habits by Leo Babauta. Being productive just for the sake of being productive, or because it’s a “good thing to do,” feels like it’s missing the point. It turns us into machines that just churning things out meaninglessly, and this leads to burnout and a feeling of pointlessness.

The Magic Link Between Minimalism and Money | Simple Money by Jennifer Hayes. Let’s delve into the intertwined relationship between minimalism and money, and how adopting a minimalist approach can be a game changer for your finances.

8 Things You Own Way Too Many Of – And Why You Must Get Rid of Them | Homes and Gardens by Chiana Dickson. These eight collections are the source of most tedious household clutter, experts say.

Recently Released Inspiring Videos

A Season of Excess | YouTube by Joshua Becker. Halloween marks the beginning of the longest season of excess: Halloween is followed by Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Christmas, followed by New Year’s Eve. No wonder everybody decides on January 1st they need to make changes.

12 Practical Tips to Turn Your Partner into More of a Minimalist | YouTube by Joshua Becker. One of the questions I am most asked is, “How do I get my spouse to embrace minimalism?” Here’s a list of ideas to help you navigate this difficult but common terrain.

Seven Mindsets to Help Ground Your Minimalist Journey

The world offers many choices.

From the food we eat, the clothes we wear, the cars we drive, the water we drink, to even the air we breathe, modern consumerism is always there… always offering more and more.

As a result, it becomes very tempting to accumulate.

But there is a life-giving beauty found in simplicity—a beauty that not only champions living with intention, but also champions dreaming bigger dreams for our lives than the ones we are sold in magazines.

As you further your pursuit of this countercultural, minimalist journey, consider these seven foundational mindsets that will help ground you and motivate you:

1. Our Resources are Limited

Every person alive has a different amount of resources—but they are all finite and limited.

Our lives, while filled with potential, have boundaries.

Money, time, and energy are limited, and their allocation speaks volumes about our values.

By embracing minimalism, we make a conscious choice to invest these finite resources in pursuits that genuinely matter—however you define them—be it relationships, passions, faith, or personal growth.

2. Life is Full of Trade-Offs

Every choice, then, comes with an opportunity cost.

When we decide to own more, we simultaneously decide against other potentially more fulfilling experiences or contributions.

Minimalism isn’t about going without—it’s about recognizing that every physical possession we bring into our lives means having to let go of something else.

3. Marketers and Businesses Do Not Always Have Your Best in Mind

Advertisements can be seductive.

They don’t just sell products; they sell dreams and often play on our insecurities along the way.

There are some businesses that genuinely want to serve and help you. But that is not always the case.

It is important to remember that. And it is vital to recognize when their goals don’t align with your personal well-being. Minimalism arms you with the discernment to see through the empty promises.

4. Minimalist Living will Probably Always Be Unconventional

My dream is to change the world by introducing as many people as possible to a minimalist lifestyle. And I hope, someday, all of culture is changed in a positive way by these writings.

But there is a very strong possibility that minimalist living will always be unconventional—human nature can be a difficult adversary…

With that being the case, your minimalist path might not always resonate with the culture around you.

But take comfort in the fact that your decisions may be countercultural, but that doesn’t mean they are unwise.

5. Excess Possessions are a Greater Burden that We Realize

Both metaphorically and literally, unneeded possessions weigh us down.

The pursuit, maintenance, and the eventual decluttering of excess drains our energy. We don’t always notice the weight (both physically and mentally) of our excess possessions until we begin to remove them.

Minimalism isn’t just about reducing clutter; it’s about lightening our soul.

6. Your Minimalism will Change as You Do

Life is a series of seasons. We change homes, job, passions, hobbies, and life stages.

Minimalism is there to provide the freedom and flexibility to make the most of each change.

But each change in life brings about a new iteration of minimalism in your life. There is, of course, a time when the initial removing of excess possessions is complete.

But our specific practice of minimalism will refine with each of the life changes.

7. Life is Too Valuable to Waste Chasing Material Possessions

Life’s richness doesn’t come from the abundance of possessions.

We were designed for something greater. And the sooner we stop looking for life in the things we buy, the sooner we can discover our truest potential elsewhere.

Minimalism may begin with a decision to own less—and that desire may arise from any number of realizations.

But pursuing minimalism for the long-term takes more. It requires deeply understood and appreciated beliefs that help us see the pursuit of less is more than simply rearranging the items in our home.

It is about seeing ourselves and the world differently.

These seven mindsets should help ground you well for that long-term.

There’s Always Another Way to Make Money

There is always another way to make money.

These words are simple, true, and life-changing.

Especially today, in our current culture, where many see the role of work as simply to make money. And as a result, tend to pursue work that brings them the most (especially when young and just starting out).

But we spend one-third of our lives at work (90,000 hours) so the work we choose to do matters quite a bit.

And there are many of us who feel trapped in our roles, in our jobs, and our mindsets about money.

If that is you, I hope you find yourself encouraged by the reminder today: There is always another way to make money.

In today’s world, many people find themselves in jobs that might not resonate with their true passions. But given the amount of joy we can derive from work in addition to the time spent doing it, the work we choose to do is one of the most important decisions we can make with our lives.

At its core, work is about providing a service or product someone else values enough to pay for.

This principle is the heart of our economic system. When you offer something beneficial—whether it be a product, a skill, or a service—that meets the needs (or desires) of others someone will see its worth and exchange money for it.

This means the ways to earn are as varied and limitless as our individual talents, passions, and the needs/desires of those around us.

And yet, a recent Gallup poll reveals that more than half of workers in the U.S. and worldwide report not being engaged at work.

If that is you, you are not alone.

Also if that is you, know that it doesn’t have to stay that way.

The diversity of a free market system means there is always opportunity for hope and empowerment.

You don’t have to remain doing work that doesn’t bring you fulfillment and meaning, because there is always another way to make money.

Minimalism is an incredibly life-giving philosophy in this context. By choosing to own only what we need, we learn to better prioritize and understand our genuine needs over mere wants. As we lean into this lifestyle, we naturally spend less.

And this financial freedom can pave the way for professional freedom, enabling us to explore work and careers that align more closely with our passions and values.

The less you need to earn, the more opportunities are available to you.

In addition to all the other life-giving benefits of owning less, it provides more flexibility in the work you do.

Does this mean everyone who is unhappy with their current work arrangement should promptly quit their job? Not necessarily.

Sometimes our lack of engagement isn’t about the job but about our perception of it. When we approach our job solely as a means to earn, we might miss out on the deeper meaning and joy our work brings to others. Changing jobs without shifting this perspective will only lead you to the same end, but just in a different job.

It’s also important to realize that there are no perfect jobs in the world. Even those who start their own companies and choose their own work run into tasks and scenarios that are not enjoyable. Roses still have thorns. So don’t hear me saying that there is a perfect job out there for you—that is true for nobody.

That being said, if you genuinely resonate with a desire to seek more meaningful work, don’t be paralyzed by the potential monetary implications. Remember, there’s more than one way to earn. You can find new work—something more fulfilling.

Choosing a new path may not always equate to the same paycheck, but there are greater things to be than rich anyway. And life is too short to spend a third of it doing unfulfilling work.

Are there times when we need to choose the opportunity in front of us to provide for our families even if it’s not our first choice? Yes, absolutely. But that doesn’t mean you need to remain there for the rest of your life and can’t start working toward something more meaningful in the future.

Show up in your own life. Do work that matters and brings you joy.

Is the work you are doing satisfying? If not, take a moment to reflect why that is the case.

Are fear or cultural expectations holding you back from making a change? If so, evaluate if those expectations are healthy or what steps you can take to overcome that fear.

Is the life you’re living now the one you dreamt of? If not, remember that you’re in the driver’s seat.

The marketplace is free, the opportunities are plentiful, and your path to meaningful work might be quietly waiting on the other side of you simply deciding to pursue it.

So choose wisely and choose purpose, because there is always another way to make money.

9 Types of Clothes in Your Closet You Can Declutter Immediately

“You can remove a significant amount of stress from your life simply by reducing the number of items in your closet.” –Courtney Carver

In the constant churn of modern life, where consumerism is encouraged at every turn, it is easy to accumulate more than we need (or even truly desire).

The clothes in our closets are a good example of this. We have more than we need, keep buying more, and rarely take the time to thin out the excess.

But when we do, there is an opportunity waiting. An opportunity to not just gain back some time and calm in the morning, but also to simplify, refine, and even rediscover ourselves.

Have you ever looked into your closet and felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of items, many of which you haven’t touched in months, or maybe even years? It’s a common scenario for many, but it doesn’t have to be that way for you.

To get you started, here are nine types of clothing items you can consider removing from your closet today:

1. Non-Fitting Clothes

Whether too large, too small, or just not quite right, clothes that don’t flatter your current body shape might be doing more harm than good. Let go, and make space for pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable.

2. Untouched for a Year

If you haven’t worn it in the past twelve months, chances are you won’t miss it. Such items only serve to crowd our spaces and minds.

3. Damaged Beyond Repair

Holding onto clothes with the hope of mending them someday? If they’ve been awaiting repair for long, it might be time to bid them farewell.

4. Special Occasion Outfits

That dress or suit you bought for a specific event and haven’t touched since? If it’s not versatile enough for other occasions, it might be worth passing on.

5. Memory-Laden Clothes

Apparel from past events or phases of life that you never wear but hold onto for sentimental reasons can be photographed and then donated, allowing the memory to live on without the clutter.

6. Unwanted Gifts

Clothing items gifted to you that just don’t align with your personal style.

7. Uncomfortable Shoes

If they hurt your feet or you find yourself avoiding them, it’s a clear sign. Comfort should never be compromised to that level.

8. The ‘I’ll Fit into This Again’ Garment

Holding onto pre-pregnancy or pre-weight gain clothes with the hope of fitting back into them someday can be discouraging. If they don’t make you feel good about yourself now, they’re better off being donated.

9. Emotionally Charged Items

Clothes that remind you of past relationships or challenging times. If they bring more negative feelings than positive, consider parting ways.

As Courtney Carver reminds us, embarking on this decluttering journey can have a bigger impact on our life than we realize.

As you free up space in your closet, you’ll find that you’re also freeing up space in your mind and time in your day, paving the way for a life defined not by possessions, but by experiences and connections. And that is not an overstatement.

Bring intentionality into your closet and you’ll begin to find it elsewhere.

Maybe You Don’t Need a Different House, You Just Need Less Stuff

It’s easy to get wrapped up in the allure of all these home transformation shows we see on TV.

A family, somewhat dissatisfied with their current space, entrusts a designer to work some magic or they recruit an agent to find their perfect home.

There’s always a predictable mix of suspense, anticipation, and inevitably a twist or hurdle that needs to be overcome. Finally, when the dust settles, we witness the big reveal—a home that looks perfect for the pages of a magazine.

But if you’ve noticed, behind the glitz of newness, there’s almost always an unchanged undercurrent: the very same volume of possessions. Sometimes, there are even more possessions. Just repackaged, reorganized, and often, more costly.

I often wonder what the room (or home) looks like just a few months later when the cameras and staged lighting are removed and the home gets lived in full-time. Probably a lot different from that initial reveal.

Behind the new carpet, renovated walls, and fresh paint lies an age-old question: Does the new decor genuinely make their lives better? Or did it just add a fresh cover over the same problems?

Does the new home actually resonate with the owners’ values and dreams, or is it just a new setup that ends up demanding even more maintenance and effort?

Now, I understand that most of us are never going to appear on one of these grand renovation shows. (Although I was once asked to host one for a major streaming platform.)

And almost none of us will be followed around by television cameras the next time we look to buy a home.

However, many people do resonate with the feelings of unease and discontentment within their own four walls. We wish the home was larger, the cabinets were painted a different color, the appliances were newer, or the furnishings were nicer.

When that is the case, feeling trapped, it is easy to think the answer is to acquire more or to upgrade. Maybe that is why these home improvement shows are so popular—we think that’s the answer to solving the discontent we feel about our home.

But what if the answer isn’t moving, bringing in a team of designers, or being swept away for a week only to return to an extreme home makeover?

What if the homes we’ve created, unintentionally, are just reflective of the messages advertisers and marketers bombard us with, rather than mirroring our genuine desires? Maybe our homes have inadvertently turned into storage units for every product that’s been marketed as ‘essential’ to us.

This is where I propose a novel idea: What if the makeover you truly need is entirely within your reach already?

Not the kind that requires you to remove walls or buy new bedroom furniture, but the kind where you deliberately decide to own less. By doing so, you’re not just tidying and changing a space; you’re reshaping your life and aligning your surroundings with what genuinely matters to you.

And here’s the beautiful thing about this minimalist approach:

There is no interior designer required.
No need for renovation teams or real estate agents.
The budget requirement is only $0.
And the time you spend is an investment that promises focus, contentment, and purpose.

Let’s challenge the mainstream narrative that’s marketed to us every day.

Instead of seeking happiness in a new space, find it by redefining your current one.

The simple act of owning less can breathe fresh vitality into your home. And as you clear out the clutter, you might just find that the home you’ve been searching for has been right under your nose the whole time.

When your home is filled with only the things you use and love, you’ll discover a home you love to use.

Maybe the secret to finding a home you love isn’t living in a different home, it’s simply owning less stuff.