Joshua Becker's Blog, page 17

15 Startling Stats that Show the Unprecedented Nature of Our Lifestyle Today

Most of us sense it deep down, even if we struggle to articulate it: the constant presence of too many things in our homes and lives.

We see it when we’re looking for that one shirt in a pile of too many, when we can’t find a place for the new gifts we receive, or when we spend what seems like forever constantly cleaning, sorting, and re-arranging.

Our garages are no longer spaces for our cars but storage areas for boxes full of stuff we never use. Drawers become increasingly difficult to close, closets are stuffed to the brim, and sometimes, our belongings control us rather than us controlling them.

It’s helpful to take a step back from our current way of life and realize, while it is common to us, compared to human history it is entirely unique.

And by that I mean, consider this: Never in human history have human beings owned as much stuff as we do today!

We’re in uncharted territory, leading lives of unprecedented abundance. Even worse, not only is this level of possession-ownership entirely unique, it is a burden to us.

Consider these 15 startling stats to understand just how unparalleled our journey into materialism has become.

1. The average American home has quadrupled in size over the last 100 years—from 700 square feet in the 1920s to 2,700 square feet in 2015. (source)

2. Still, more than a third of Americans rent self storage—spending $38 billion every year. (source)

3. The average American shopper buys 60% more clothing items than they did 15 years ago but keeps them for half as long. The average garment may be worn as few as ten times before disposal. (source)

4. The average American woman has 103 items of clothing in her closet. In 1930, the average American owned just nine outfits. (source / source)

5. Yet, American households spend, on average, almost $1,500 on clothing every year. (source)

6. No wonder the average American throws away about 81 pounds of clothing every year! (source)

7. American credit card debt now exceeds $1 trillion for the first time—twice as much credit card debt as just 10 years ago. (source)

8. Americans make one impulse purchase every two days, spending up to $5400 annually ($324,000 over their lifetime). (source)

9. Americans spend over $8 billion every year on unwanted gifts. (source)

10. The average American household now owns 25 connected devices. (source)

11. The average person in Great Britain owns 80 books which they haven’t read. (source)

12. Each year, 119 billion pounds of food is wasted in the United States. That equates to 130 billion meals and more than $408 billion in food thrown away each year. Shockingly, nearly 40% of all food in America is wasted. (source)

13. Even though we stock our kitchens with food we don’t eat, Americans now spend more on dining out than on groceries. (source)

14. 80% of the items we own are never used. (source)

15. Americans spend $18,000 per year, per person, on nonessentials. (source)

The numbers are clear and paint a picture of just how much we’ve accumulated. It’s surprising, really, when you think about how different our lives are from all other previous generations before us.

But here’s the good news: we don’t have to keep living this way. There’s a simpler, more freeing path ahead. Owning less and making more room for what truly matters.

So, why not start today? Begin with one drawer, one shelf, or one closet. Consider this your invitation to a lighter, more intentional life. And the first step? Maybe it’s as simple as a visit to your local donation center.

Inspiring Simplicity. Weekend Reads.

Minimalism is a lifestyle choice that reaps countless benefits.

Choosing to live a minimalist life isn’t just about decluttering your space—it’s about reclaiming your time, money, and energy for the things that truly matter. 

But the path to simplicity is often against the current of our culture that values more and encourages consumerism. So it’s important to surround ourselves with messages and stories that remind us of the benefits of this chosen path. 

With that in mind, I’ve curated a collection of articles that I believe will inspire and encourage you on your journey to a simpler, more intentional life. Settle down in a quiet moment this weekend and enjoy these reads.

Minimalism Should Come with a Warning Label: Caution—May cause sudden desire to alter everything about your life | No Sidebar by Nikki Cox. Once this tool opens your eyes to a different way of living that is counter cultural to the norm, your life may be changed forever.

7 Steps to Declutter Your Life (Not Just Your Stuff) And Live Simply | Hearts Content Farmhouse by Katie Shaw. These tiny habits build up over time and make a significant difference in breaking free of the excess.

Are Minimalism and Slow Living the Same Thing? | The Fun Sized Life by Renee Benes. The ties that bind these two together may not seem obvious at first glance, but let’s break down the beliefs that tie them together. You may be surprised to find that beginning one movement may just catapult you into the next.

The 12 Simple Rules Of Decluttering You Need To Follow | Organise My House by Chrissy. From starting to get rid of your unnecessary stuff, to finally becoming clutter free—here are the 12 simple rules of decluttering that will make getting rid of unwanted stuff (and the whole decluttering process) so much easier.

Simple Living: A Guide to Embracing a Minimalist Lifestyle | Practigal Blog by Theresa Bedford. Transitioning to a simpler life may seem daunting. Still, by breaking it down into smaller steps and focusing on gradual changes, you can experience the numerous benefits it has to offer.

Recently Released Inspiring Videos

Yes, Decluttering Has an Endpoint—And It’s Wonderful | YouTube by Joshua Becker. Decluttering, like many worthy endeavors, requires dedication. It’s easy to believe that this must be a never-ending cycle. And while it’s true that we need to stay vigilant against clutter returning, that doesn’t mean we never experience the moment of accomplishment.

12 Subtle Ways You May Be Wasting Money Without Realizing It | YouTube by Joshua Becker. It’s not always the big expenses that drain our wallets. Sometimes, it’s the seemingly insignificant ones that prevent us from saving money.

How to Fall in Love with Your Life

Let’s face it: life is far from perfect. It’s filled with highs, lows, twists, turns, and uncertainties.

And if you’re reading this, perhaps you’ve looked around lately and thought, “This isn’t what I imagined my life would be like. I wish it were different for me.”

First, let me say this, you are not alone. You are not the only one wishing life looked different.

Second, you need to know something else, life doesn’t have to remain the same. It’s entirely possible to enjoy your life—even love the life you’re living, despite its imperfections.

There is no doubt that wishing life was different is not new. But our current structure of living seems to make it worse.

In many ways, the digital age has us under an illusion that some people are out there living perfect lives. As a result, it is easy to become envious or jealous. They seem to have everything all together and if we don’t, we must have done something wrong.

We begin to believe that happiness lies in that perfect Instagram shot or the seemingly flawless life of your old high school friend on Facebook. But that is not true.

So let’s all remind ourselves: Life will never be perfect and it is not perfect for anybody.

Plus, that’s okay! Perfection isn’t a prerequisite for love. No matter the imperfections, no matter how far life has wavered from what you desired, you can fall back in love with life.

But how? Well, let me offer some ideas to get us started:

1. Accept that Life Will Never Be Perfect.

One of the most significant steps you can take is to shift your mindset from seeking perfection to seeking purpose.

Your house might be messy, your health may be failing, your job is not what you dreamed of, but remember, beauty can still be found in imperfection (thank goodness).

2. Stop Comparing Your Journey

Everyone is on a unique path, so comparing your Chapter 3 to someone else’s Chapter 10 is futile.

Actually, let me rephrase that. Everyone is on a unique path, so comparing your Chapter 3 to someone else’s Chapter 3 is also futile.

No two people start from the same spot with the same advantages (and disadvantages). Absolutely every single person is living a different life, on a different path, than everybody else.

Instead of focusing on what others have, cherish what you have. Your life, with all its uniqueness (and quirks and peculiarities), is worth celebrating.

3. Discover Your Truest Values

Living life aligned with your values is the quickest (and longest-lasting) pathway to a life you love.

And here’s the best part: It doesn’t who you are or what your life looks like today, you can begin moving in the direction of aligning your life with your values immediately.

All you need… is to identify what they are. Or, maybe just reaffirm them.

Spend some time in solitude. Reflect on what you genuinely want out of life. What are your passions, values, and dreams?

Step away from the noise and influence of culture, society, even the people in your life. Listen to your heart, your soul, and your mind.

And then, the more you align your life with these core principles, the more fulfillment you’ll find.

4. Invest Your Finite Resources Wisely

Time, energy, attention, money—these are all finite resources.

So, channel them towards your passions and values. Little by little, more and more, every day.

By doing so, you’re not just living, you’re thriving. And when you’re thriving, you’ll be loving life.

5. Consider Those You Admire

Among the people in our lives, there are those special few who stand out, who live a life worth learning from.

I suppose these may be people that we study from afar. But I’m mostly thinking of the people you know firsthand, who you have seen grow and change and live intentional lives they are proud to live.

These individuals, often hidden in plain sight amidst our friends, families, and communities, have achieved what many seek—a love for their own life, imperfections, and all.

Observing and even approaching these real-life role models can offer unique insights. Their lives provide proof that contentment is achievable, and their wisdom can serve as a guiding light.

6. Recognize the Difference Between Your Efforts and Outcomes

Sometimes, despite all your hard work and best intentions, things don’t pan out the way you’d hoped. And that’s okay.

Life is a mix of what we control and what we don’t. Find contentment in knowing that you’ve done your best, even if the outcomes aren’t what you desired.

You can find contentment and love in the decisions you have made—even if you wish some of the outcomes had been different.

I think it will be helpful to include some specific steps we can take to move us closer to these ideals.

But before I do, let me reiterate something I mentioned at the beginning.

If you are wishing your life was different than what it is, you are not alone. But change is possible. Your life does not have to remain the same. You can take intentional steps to change it into something you love.

Here are some helpful, achievable steps:

Practical Steps to Start Loving Your Life Today

—Set Boundaries

Understand that not every opportunity aligns with your values and passions. Know that saying ‘no’ is a form of self-care—despite the expectations someone else might be putting on you. Create boundaries that protect your time and energy.

—Engage in Regular Self-reflection

Make it a habit to sit quietly and evaluate your life. Journal, meditate, or even take a quiet walk. Find opportunity in silence and stillness.

—Celebrate Small Wins

Don’t wait for grand achievements as you change your life. Celebrate the tiny steps you take each day. Find joy in them and love the journey.

—Surround Yourself with Positivity

This might mean finding uplifting friends, reading inspiring books, or even decorating your space in a way that boosts your mood.

—Ask Questions of Someone You Admire

Something as simple as, “Hey, can I ask you a question? How come you always seem to be in such a great mood?” just might deliver a worldview-shifting answer.

—Invest in Your Growth

This might be in the form of books, courses, personal development, or seeking therapy. Investing in personal growth can transform your relationship with life.

—Practice Gratitude

Every night, write down three things you’re thankful for. It’s a simple practice, but it’s transformative. You can do this on paper, in prayer, or with a spouse. But gratitude is the quickest way to bring positivity into your life.

Your life will never be picture-perfect, but it’s the only one you’ve got.

So why not make it a masterpiece?

Embrace the imperfections, show up in your life, make decisions that you can be proud of, and most importantly, never stop believing that you can fall back in love with the life you are living.

How to Gift Experiences Instead of Things: A Helpful Guide

The act of gift-giving is a cherished tradition. It is not one I argue against. Gifting gifts and receiving gifts has been used to communicate love and respect for as long as humans have existed.

However, the way we give gifts today is entirely new. And definitely needs to be reconsidered.

Too many of the gifts we give (and receive) don’t bring the desired result: improving someone else’s life. They just end up as clutter.

To better think through gift-giving that doesn’t result in clutter, I recommend four rules:

Experiences over possessions.Quality over quantity.Needs over wants.Consumables over non-consumables.

Each of the four are important. But for this article, my focus is on only the first rule: Experiences over possessions. How do we go about gifting experiences rather than things?

No doubt many of you are ready to give that a try this year.

If so, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

1. Announce Your Intentions

If this is a brand-new idea for your family, it’s probably helpful to mention that you’re trying something new this year and giving experiences rather than physical gifts. I don’t think this is necessary in most families, but some families are really big into giving lots of physical gifts.

You’ll know your family better than me. If you think gifting experiences over possessions will come as an overwhelming shock to your immediate or extended family, it might be helpful to just mention your intention beforehand. You can always just say you’re testing it out this year if you’re really nervous.

In the end they’ll be just as happy (probably even happier), but this step might go a long way at the initial opening of the gifts.

2. Think Hard About Their Interests

The best gifts communicate your love and attention. When you know what gifts to buy for someone, you communicate in a significant way that you’ve been paying attention. The same will apply when gifting experiences.

Your gifts should be a reflection of the recipient’s passions. Whether they’re an art aficionado, a coffee lover, a movie buff, a sports fan, or an adventure-seeker, choose experiences that align with who they are—or something you think they’ll enjoy based on what you know about them.

3. Broaden Your Definition of “Experience”

When you think of gifting “experiences,” you probably immediately have a mental picture of what that means. But give it more intentional thought, and you’ll probably find hundreds of ideas you haven’t even considered yet.

To get you brainstorming, here are 30 experience-based gifts, loosely arranged from the least costly to more elaborate:

A self-made picnic in the park.Visit to a local museum on a free-entry day.Home movie marathon with their favorite films.Library membership.Handmade “Adventure Day” cards with various activities.Craft workshop at a community center.Guided nature walk.DIY cooking class at home.Local theater tickets.Dinner at a food truck or pop-up eatery.Weekend flea market or farmer’s market outing.Interactive escape room adventure.Art gallery opening nights.DIY spa day with homemade beauty treatments.Stargazing evening at a local observatory.Pottery or art class.Coffee tasting at local roasters.Bike tour of your city.Concert or live music evening.Dance lessons.Local winery or brewery tour.Zip-lining or adventure park passes.Museum annual pass.Membership to a botanical garden or wildlife reserve.Hot air balloon ride.Gourmet dining experience.Weekend getaway or retreat.Skydiving or paragliding session.Airbnb cabin rental for the entire family.A guided vacation or luxury cruise.4. Spend the Same Amount

Gifting experiences can be cheaper than physical gifts, but it doesn’t need to be. Experience gifts could cost less, the same, or even more.

I think you should plan to spend the same amount on experiences as you would have on physical gifts. Or, if this is your first year doing it, spend a little more if you are able. You’ll find the investment pays dividends far greater than material possessions.

5. Presentation Still Counts

The joy of receiving a gift often starts with the unwrapping. Even if it’s a simple note or voucher, present it with the same passion you’d put into a physical gift.

Crafted wrappings, personal cards, or unique containers amplify the excitement.

6. Think Long-Term Returns

Think about experiences that prolong the joy of the gift.

An annual membership or monthly classes or weekly babysitting during the summer months serve as a constant reminder of your thoughtful gesture and extend the experiential gift beyond the specific day when gifts are first given.

7. Shared Moments are Memories that Last a Lifetime

Think also about gifting experiences you can embark upon together—a weekend camping trip, a culinary class, tickets to the ballgame, a week-long cabin rental on the beach, or a day at a heritage site.

The memories made together will become a talking point in your relationship for as long as it lasts.

8. DIY Experiences Still Pack a Punch

A booklet of homemade dinner vouchers or a jar of “day-out” ideas can be as endearing as any pricey gift. It showcases effort, creativity, and the willingness to spend time together.

I know I just mentioned that Experience-based gifts aren’t cheaper purely by definition, but they certainly can be if appropriate and/or necessary.

9. A Word to Parents of Children

Parents, a quick word. Gifting experiences to kids can be life-changing—and I mean that literally. Instead of toys, how about a day exploring a science museum, a kite-flying afternoon, or even a DIY camp in the backyard? Gifts such as these provide opportunity to not only grow together, but also entirely reshape cultural expectations of what gift-giving looks like in America.

That being said, it is still a counter-cultural decision. But don’t ever fall into the trap of thinking it’s not possible. There are countless families all over your country who have decided to embrace this idea. They’ve done it—so can you.

10. Honoring Loved Ones’ Specific Wishes

These tips above will help you begin gifting experiences rather than gifts.

That being said, keep in mind that holidays and birthdays might not be the very best time of year for you to champion the minimalist cause you hold so dear. If a loved one has expressed a clear preference for physical gifts, even telling you what they want to receive, I’d recommend honoring their wishes.

Just as you would like others to respect your gift list ideas, it’s wise for us to respect theirs. Again, I think it is a pretty rare scenario where someone would demand a physical gift rather than receiving an experience gift you think they would enjoy. But if the desire has been clearly expressed, hold to it. There are other opportunities to make your case for the benefits of owning less.

Done well, gifting experiences is way better than giving physical gifts that only result in more clutter. Think of it, they deepen connections, create memories, and celebrate life in greater ways than material possessions.

Give it a shot. You’ll never go back.

The 5 Most Important Rooms to Minimize in Your Home

There’s a transformation that takes place when we begin to declutter our homes and minimize the number of possessions inside it.

The benefits are life-giving to everyone in the family.

People who intentionally decide to own less realize quickly that it’s not just about the removal of objects; it’s about the freedom and focus we gain, the unnecessary burdens we remove, the space we open up for new experiences and ideas, and how the process entirely reshapes our view of the world.

However, a challenge still lies for many in choosing where to start this journey.

I’ve long believed and taught that our approach to decluttering should begin with the spaces we spend the most time in. When you begin decluttering the most lived-in areas first, you quickly experience the benefits, feel the difference, and find momentum to eventually declutter every area in your home.

Starting with the attic or garage, while tempting, can often be overwhelming and less immediately gratifying. Instead, start where you’ll see and feel the difference every single day.

With that approach in mind, here are the five most important rooms to start minimizing possessions in:

1. Bedroom

Your bedroom is your personal sanctuary, a place of rest and rejuvenation. Minimizing clutter in this room can dramatically improve the quality of your sleep and overall well-being.

Waking up to a serene, uncluttered space sets a peaceful tone for the day. When there’s less to distract the eye and the mind, you begin and end your day with less stress.

Plus, with fewer items, cleaning and maintaining order become so much simpler.

2. Living Room

The living room is where we spend most of our time together as a family. When you minimize here, you create more space for bonding, creativity, and relaxation.

An uncluttered living room invites conversations, quiet reading moments, and spontaneous family game nights. It’s easier to maintain, and every family member can enjoy the tranquility it offers.

3. Bathrooms

Bathrooms are where we start our mornings, get ready for the day, and end our nights. A decluttered bathroom makes morning routines smoother and evening wind-downs more relaxing.

Simplifying your toiletries, cosmetics, and other items not only makes your space aesthetically pleasing but also functional and efficient.

It’s about making room for self-care rituals that enhance your day rather than distract from it.

4. Kitchen

There is something refreshing and life-giving about a clean, uncluttered kitchen.

It sets the tone and culture for the home. It communicates calm and order. It promotes opportunity and possibility. It saves time and ensures cleanliness. The kitchen truly is the heart of your home.

It can be a bit more difficult to declutter than the bedroom or living room, but it’s definitely worth making it one of the first.

5. Kids’ Bedroom

Children also benefit from decluttered spaces. An uncluttered kids’ room is not only safer but also promotes creativity and focus. Fewer toys mean that each one is cherished more and leads to deeper play.

Plus, teaching children the value of decluttering early sets the foundation for mindful living as they grow.

Minimalism is about more than removing things; it’s about embracing a life of intention, where our possessions promote purpose and values. Owning less paves the way for a more intentional home, focused on the things that matter most.

These five rooms are your best starting point. So begin here, and let every cleared space inspire you to dive deeper into minimalism.

“I Can’t” Leads to Despondency, “How Can I” Leads to Possibilities

Every single day, whether we fully comprehend its potential or not, life offers us a number of options.

Some decisions are routine, other opportunities are significant. But we encounter them every day.

Each carries with it the potential to shape our future. As we navigate these choices, there’s a phrase that, unfortunately, slips out all too often: “I can’t.”

Think about how often this phrase echoes in our thoughts and conversations.

“I can’t lose weight.” “I can’t declutter my home.” “I can’t exercise regularly.”

“I can’t handle this job.” “I can’t find time for myself.” “I can’t get out of debt.”

And we also utter this phrase on matters that weigh deeply on our hearts:

“I can’t forgive,” “I can’t rebuild this relationship.” “I can’t move past this pain.”

But here’s the problem, every time we use the phrase “I can’t,” we make the desired change in our lives almost impossible to actually achieve!

Every time we say, or even think, the phrase, “I can’t”, we’re not merely expressing the weight of the challenge (and opportunity) in front of us, we’re essentially closing the door on it becoming a future reality.

What if, rather than saying “I can’t”, we started framing our thoughts and asking, “How can I?” instead.

This isn’t just a play on words. It’s a fundamental shift in our mindset toward life change and opportunity!

“I can’t” leads to despondency. “How can I?” leads to opportunity.

“How can I?” moves us from feeling defeated and stuck to a place of hope and exploration.

It acknowledges the change is difficult, but the question sparks a curiosity within us to find the potential paths available to make it a reality.

Take, for instance, the goal of eating healthier. “I just can’t eat healthy, I like sweets too much” immediately closes the door to life change. On the other hand, “How can I eat more healthy?” opens up a world of opportunity. Even if we keep some sweets in our diet, the question immediately opens ourselves up to small changes that we can make in our daily lives that move us closer to that ideal.

Consider the dream of decluttering your home. “I can’t declutter, I am too sentimental” stops us in our tracks. “How can I declutter—even though I am a sentimental person,” on the other hand, immediately crafts a Google search that probably results in 20 different ways for a sentimental person to begin decluttering.

But more than that, what’s truly wonderful about “How can I?” is its inherent honesty.

It doesn’t mean we automatically know the solution to the problem. Just the opposite, it immediately admits we have no idea how to solve the problem! It expresses a desire to make it happen and the willingness, humility, and resolve to find a solution. It sets in motion the wheels of change, encouraging us to find resources, ask others, and draw strength from those who have gone before.

And the change in phrasing offers potential in even the weightiest of changes we desire in our lives.

“I can’t forgive her, not after what she did,” closes the book on forgiveness. “How can I forgive her—even after what she did to me,” on the other hand, opens to the first page of how to relieve the weight of carrying such hurt for so long.

Life presents obstacles both large and small. While it’s human nature to feel overwhelmed or defeated at times, these moments don’t have to define our entire journey.

Problems can be overcome. Life change, in both big and small ways, can be experienced.

A simple shift from thinking “I can’t” to thinking “How can I?” turns obstacles into opportunities, providing a fresh lens through which we view life’s challenges.

So, if there’s a change, an improvement, or a dream you’ve given up on as no longer being possible, no matter how big or intimidating it might be, ask yourself today: “How can I make this a reality?”

You might be surprised who you become.

Yes, Decluttering Has an Endpoint—And It’s Wonderful

There’s something profoundly satisfying about completing a challenging task.

That feeling when you finish a race, accomplish a project at work, or even just finish cleaning up after a really successful party.

You get to stand back, take a deep breath, and savor the accomplishment. It’s an amazing feeling.

Yet, in our journey toward minimalism, I often hear a common refrain, “Decluttering is a process and I’m fine with that. There is no endpoint to decluttering anyway.” But, as with any task, isn’t there a moment of completion, a moment of pure satisfaction when the hard work is finally over?

Yes, of course there is! There is an endpoint to decluttering. And it’s wonderful!

Decluttering, like many worthy endeavors, requires dedication of course. And it’s easy to believe that this must be a never-ending cycle. And while it’s true that we need to stay vigilant against clutter returning, that doesn’t mean we never experience the moment of accomplishment.

Minimalism, as I’ve come to realize, does have an endpoint.

It’s not about achieving an entirely empty room or living with just a backpack. Instead, it’s about reaching a point where the things you own serve a purpose in your life. It’s the beautiful moment when you look around your space and think, “This environment frees me to pursue what’s important.”

Does it mean there are no unnecessary possessions remaining? Probably not. But there is a moment when the initial work feels completed.

Now, that doesn’t mean decluttering can’t still be a journey. It took us three months to declutter our main living spaces and nine months to address the entire home. Then, three years later, we moved into a smaller house. The process was not without its challenges, and it wasn’t overnight. But every step we took brought us closer to the endpoint.

Here’s why I think this is so important.

Believing that decluttering is an unending process can keep us from making progress. If there is “no end to this journey,” what’s the point of working hard to minimize our unneeded things? No matter what you do… there will always be more left.

But there’s a profound difference between living a decluttered life and always decluttering.

Living a decluttered life is possible, and you can achieve it!

Yes, there’s maintenance. New possessions enter our homes. Seasons of life change. Kids grow older. But once you’ve reached that initial milestone, the hardest work is over.

Maintaining a minimized space is way easier than getting there. And trust me, reaching that sweet spot is wonderful.

So, what does life look like when the decluttering is done?

More Time: You spend less time cleaning, organizing, and looking for things. And doing more of the things you love.

More Freedom: Without the weight of excess possessions, you are lighter, freer, and more in control of your life.

More Contentment: Once you realize you have everything you need, contentment comes easier.

More Financial Stability: Maintaining fewer things (and less impulse buying) mean more savings and more opportunity to finally get ahead.

More Intentionality: Every possession becomes a conscious choice. You begin to apply this intentionality in other aspects of your life as well.

Some of the greatest benefits of minimalism are discovered when you reach the finish line.

Does this mean you’ll never buy or acquire anything new again? Of course not. There may be times when things begin to accumulate a bit in your home. But removing a few things, every so often, is much easier than decluttering your entire home the first time.

I don’t want this article to discourage anyone who is struggling to make progress. Just the opposite!

I want to encourage you to not get lost in the belief that decluttering has no end. There is a finish line—and the harder you work to get there, the better!

So, if you’re still on a journey towards minimalism, keep going.

The endpoint is real, achievable, wonderful, and probably closer than you think.

Inspiring Simplicity. Weekend Reads.

Your home is your sanctuary. Let’s keep it that way.

Simplicity is about creating space in your life for what matters most. It’s about clearing the clutter from our homes and hearts so we can live with intention and purpose. 

As the world gets busier and noisier, embracing simplicity and minimalism becomes even more important.

But we all need inspiration to keep us going. That’s why I carefully selected these articles for you. I hope they inspire you to continue on this beautiful journey towards a simpler life. 

Find a cozy spot, prepare your favorite drink, and immerse yourself in these thought-provoking reads this weekend.

10 Lessons Backpacking Taught Me About Minimalism | No Sidebar by Barefoot Minimalists. When you have fewer possessions, you appreciate the ones you do have more. There’s no better teacher for this lesson than backpacking.

Embracing Presence and Purpose: 9 Easy Ways to a Meaningful Life | The Outdoor Apothecary by Barbi Gardiner. In a world brimming with distractions and a relentless pace, finding ways to stay present and purposeful has become an essential lifeline.

Say Goodbye To McMansions And Hello To Minimalist, Simple-Sized Homes | Forbes by Terri Williams. According to an Opendoor survey, 60% of respondents say they have changed their definition of a dream home.

If Living with Debt is Considered Normal, I Want to Be Different | Simple Money by Richard James. “Isn’t it about time we redefine what ‘normal’ really is? Because if normal means being chained, then, my dear friend, I wholeheartedly wish for you the joyous abnormality of freedom.”

Transcendent: Take on Work & Life from Another Level | Zen Habits by Leo Babauta. “What if life could be transcendent? Alive? Expansive? Lit up? While there’s nothing wrong with always having our nose to the grindstone, and having every day feel the same as the last … what would it be like to open to something different?”

Recently Released Inspiring Videos

10 Practical Tips for Maintaining Minimalism in Your Life | YouTube by Joshua Becker. The benefits of owning less are amazing. But it’s still easy to fall back into old habits of mindless consumption if we don’t make conscious efforts to sustain our newfound lifestyle.

7 Unexpected Benefits of Minimalism | YouTube by Joshua Becker. Leading a minimalist lifestyle can result in some truly unexpected benefits that enrich your life in more ways than one.

Joshua Becker’s TEDx Talk

Today, I’m thrilled to share something a bit different with you.

In May of this year, I had the honor of standing on a TEDx stage in Hermosillo, Mexico, sharing thoughts not on minimalism, but on a topic very dear to me: Caring for orphaned and vulnerable children.

The talk, “A Better Way to Care for Orphaned and Vulnerable Children,” discusses the vital work of The Hope Effect, a nonprofit organization each of you helped bring to life.

The Hope Effect was founded through the Book Advance payments I received through my books about minimalism. But the momentum didn’t stop there. Many of you, through your generosity and belief in our mission, have been focused and intentional supporters. Ever since I first announced the nonprofit back in 2015, this community has supported it and allowed it to grow—now around the world.

The TEDx talk isn’t only about The Hope Effect. It’s about something even bigger.

It provides an overview of the research (which has been known for decades) about the detrimental effects of institutional care on young children and the importance of love, safety, and relationship in the earliest stages of a child’s brain development.

I urge you to watch, share, and most importantly, allow the message to inspire action. This community is making a HUGE difference around the world—and I’m so proud to be part of it!

10 Things Your Capsule Wardrobe Needs (That Aren’t Clothes)

Building a capsule wardrobe is more than just picking out clothes. It’s about embracing a whole new way of thinking.

And I think that’s one of the things that people misunderstand about it—missing both the process and the benefits as a result.

There are countless articles and lists written about the right clothes to buy in order to build your capsule wardrobe.

But I’ve got to be honest, the secret to crafting a successful capsule wardrobe has less to do about the clothes you wear and more about how you think of the change.

And by that I mean, to really get the most out of a minimalist wardrobe, you need the right mindset.

If you’re struggling to get started owning fewer clothes, or just want motivation to keep going, it can be helpful to realize this isn’t just a fashion journey; it’s a mental one too.

Here then, are ten essential mindsets you need to build a meaningful and lasting capsule wardrobe:

1. Confidence in yourself

Believing in yourself and your choices is crucial for building a minimalist wardrobe.

Embrace your personal style without seeking validation from others. Your wardrobe should be a reflection of your true self, not a fake creation for the purpose of pleasing others.

2. Understanding that beauty comes from within

Realize that your worth is not determined by your appearance. True beauty comes from your character, values, and how you treat others.

Cultivate inner beauty, and you’ll find that you need fewer material possessions to feel both confident and attractive.

3. An appreciation for personal style over trends

Choose timeless pieces that reflect your unique taste and personality, rather than chasing fleeting fashion trends.

A curated wardrobe built on personal style will always be more fulfilling and sustainable than one based on the latest fads.

4. Awareness of the fleeting nature of fashion

Recognize that trends come and go, but your personal style remains constant.

“Every generation laughs at the old fashions, but follows religiously the new,” Henry David Thoreau once said.

Invest in quality pieces that can withstand the test of time, and avoid the trap of needing to constantly update your wardrobe to keep up with fashion.

5. Knowing there are more important things to spend money on

Shift your focus from acquiring material possessions to investing in experiences, relationships, and personal growth.

Redirecting your resources towards more meaningful pursuits will bring greater satisfaction and happiness.

6. Being mindful of the example you set for your children

Model simplicity and intentional living for your children by maintaining a minimalist wardrobe.

Teach them the value of quality over quantity and inspire them to make mindful choices in their own lives.

7. Gratitude for what you have

Appreciate the clothes you already own and recognize their value.

A mindset of gratitude will help you resist the urge to constantly seek more and encourage you to make the most of what you have.

8. Embracing the power of simplicity

Understand that a simplified wardrobe leads to a more focused and peaceful life.

By removing excess and distractions, you can devote your energy to what truly matters.

9. A commitment to sustainability

Owning fewer articles of clothing allows you to choose ethically- and responsibly- made clothing options.

By doing so, you’re not only simplifying your wardrobe but also contributing to a better world.

10. Flexibility and adaptability

Be open to change and adapt your wardrobe to suit your evolving needs and circumstances.

A capsule wardrobe is not a rigid, unchanging entity, but a dynamic reflection of your life and personal growth.

Creating a capsule wardrobe is not just about the clothes themselves, but the mindset and attitudes that enable you to resist consumer culture and embrace simplicity.

By recognizing and choosing to pursue these ten essential qualities, you’ll be well on your way to building a more meaningful, intentional wardrobe.