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The More of Less: Finding the Life You Want Under Everything You Own
Don’t Settle for More
Most of us know we own too much stuff. We feel the weight and burden of our clutter, and we tire of cleaning and managing and organizing.
While excess consumption leads to bigger houses, faster cars, fancier technology, and cluttered homes, it never brings happiness. Rather, it results in a desire for more. It redirects our greatest passions to things that can never fulfill. And it distracts us from the very life we wish we were living.
Live a better life with less.
In The More of Less, Joshua Becker, helps you….
• recognize the life-giving benefits of owning less
• realize how all the stuff you own is keeping you from pursuing your dreams
• craft a personal, practical approach to decluttering your home and life
• experience the joys of generosity
• learn why the best part of minimalism isn’t a clean house, it’s a full life
The beauty of minimalism isn’t in what it takes away. It’s in what it gives.
Make Room in Your Life for What You Really Want
“Maybe you don’t need to own all this stuff.” After a casual conversation with his neighbor on Memorial Day 2008, Joshua Becker realized he needed a change. He was spending far too much time organizing possessions, cleaning up messes, and looking for more to buy.
So Joshua and his wife decided to remove the nonessential possessions from their home and life. Eventually, they sold, donated, or discarded over 60 percent of what they owned. In exchange, they found a life of more freedom, more contentment, more generosity, and more opportunity to pursue the things that mattered most.
The More of Less delivers an empowering plan for living more by owning less. With practical suggestions and encouragement to personalize your own minimalist style, Joshua Becker shows you why minimizing possessions is the best way to maximize life.
Are you ready for less cleaning, less anxiety, and less stress in your life? Simplicity isn’t as complicated as you think.
From the Hardcover edition.
Most of us know we own too much stuff. We feel the weight and burden of our clutter, and we tire of cleaning and managing and organizing.
While excess consumption leads to bigger houses, faster cars, fancier technology, and cluttered homes, it never brings happiness. Rather, it results in a desire for more. It redirects our greatest passions to things that can never fulfill. And it distracts us from the very life we wish we were living.
Live a better life with less.
In The More of Less, Joshua Becker, helps you….
• recognize the life-giving benefits of owning less
• realize how all the stuff you own is keeping you from pursuing your dreams
• craft a personal, practical approach to decluttering your home and life
• experience the joys of generosity
• learn why the best part of minimalism isn’t a clean house, it’s a full life
The beauty of minimalism isn’t in what it takes away. It’s in what it gives.
Make Room in Your Life for What You Really Want
“Maybe you don’t need to own all this stuff.” After a casual conversation with his neighbor on Memorial Day 2008, Joshua Becker realized he needed a change. He was spending far too much time organizing possessions, cleaning up messes, and looking for more to buy.
So Joshua and his wife decided to remove the nonessential possessions from their home and life. Eventually, they sold, donated, or discarded over 60 percent of what they owned. In exchange, they found a life of more freedom, more contentment, more generosity, and more opportunity to pursue the things that mattered most.
The More of Less delivers an empowering plan for living more by owning less. With practical suggestions and encouragement to personalize your own minimalist style, Joshua Becker shows you why minimizing possessions is the best way to maximize life.
Are you ready for less cleaning, less anxiety, and less stress in your life? Simplicity isn’t as complicated as you think.
From the Hardcover edition.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 3, 2016
About the author
Joshua Becker
17 books707 followersJoshua Becker is the Wall Street Journal and USA Today best-selling author of The Minimalist Home, The More of Less, Clutterfree with Kids and Simplify.
He is the Founder and Editor of Becoming Minimalist, a website dedicated to intentional living visited by over 2 million readers every month with a social media following of over 2 million.
His blog was named by SUCCESS Magazine as one of the top ten personal development websites on the Internet and his writing has been featured in publications all around the world.
He is also the co-creator of Simplify Media, the parent company of Simplify Magazine and Simple Money Magazine.
Joshua and his young family were introduced to minimalism twelve years ago during a short conversation with their neighbor. Since then, Joshua’s story and writing have inspired millions around the world to find more life by owning fewer possessions. Today, based on his thoughtful and intentional approach to minimalism, he is one of the leading voices in the modern simplicity movement.
He is also the Founder of The Hope Effect, a nonprofit organization changing how the world cares for orphans. Currently, he lives in Peoria, AZ with his wife and two teenage kids.
His online course, Uncluttered, has helped over 45,000 people declutter their homes and live a more intentional life because of it.
His app, Clutterfree, is the only app to create a personalized, room-by-room decluttering to-do list for an individual’s unique home.
And his YouTube channel has over 100,000 subscribers.
He is the Founder and Editor of Becoming Minimalist, a website dedicated to intentional living visited by over 2 million readers every month with a social media following of over 2 million.
His blog was named by SUCCESS Magazine as one of the top ten personal development websites on the Internet and his writing has been featured in publications all around the world.
He is also the co-creator of Simplify Media, the parent company of Simplify Magazine and Simple Money Magazine.
Joshua and his young family were introduced to minimalism twelve years ago during a short conversation with their neighbor. Since then, Joshua’s story and writing have inspired millions around the world to find more life by owning fewer possessions. Today, based on his thoughtful and intentional approach to minimalism, he is one of the leading voices in the modern simplicity movement.
He is also the Founder of The Hope Effect, a nonprofit organization changing how the world cares for orphans. Currently, he lives in Peoria, AZ with his wife and two teenage kids.
His online course, Uncluttered, has helped over 45,000 people declutter their homes and live a more intentional life because of it.
His app, Clutterfree, is the only app to create a personalized, room-by-room decluttering to-do list for an individual’s unique home.
And his YouTube channel has over 100,000 subscribers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,347 reviews
November 29, 2018
3 Stars
I have gotten into minimalism over the last year or so and I think this is the third, or fourth (or fifth?) book I've read on the subject.
I think if this had been the first book I had read on minimalism, I would have enjoyed it more. For those just starting to dip their toe into this way of living, this book is probably great; but, for those like myself who have already been at it for a while, it really has nothing new to offer. In addition to that, there is a LOT of Christian/religious fodder which (while it didn't really bother me as I knew it was coming) might not be everyone's cup of tea.
All that said, I can't in good conscience give this book less than 3 stars as it was Josh Becker (and his blog upon which this book is based) that really got me going and motivated when I got into this whole thing last year.
Also, let me make something else clear:
I am NOT rich.
But I AM definitely privileged.
And I recognize that this whole minimalism thing can be seen as an elitist endeavor.
I get that you must be someone privileged enough to have had too much stuff in order to want/need to get rid of some of it. I am not trying to preach or act like a martyr here, folks, I promise. This is just a book review.
For me, it's not about elitism or the "look" of minimalism. (I mean, hello, I still have a gazillion books on my shelves and a Disney coffee cup collection that makes me grin like a five year old at a Disney parade) It's about living a slower, more intentional life, getting rid of all my debt, and trying to be more grateful and generous.
Or as grateful and generous as my cynical, emotionless, black-hearted self can be.
Edited to add: I got into this last year, when I knew I would be walking away from a stressful 13 year career and taking a hefty pay cut as a result. For me, it’s not about getting rid of stuff for the sake of it. It’s about getting rid of stuff I don’t need or use and recognizing what useless stuff I buy for no reason as an emotional crutch or pick me up...so I can be more intentional about what I buy going forward and being better with my money. That’s all. I could give a shit if my house looks “minimalist” or not and all that bullshit. It’s just about having less clutter and stress and more time, intention, and money.
I have gotten into minimalism over the last year or so and I think this is the third, or fourth (or fifth?) book I've read on the subject.
I think if this had been the first book I had read on minimalism, I would have enjoyed it more. For those just starting to dip their toe into this way of living, this book is probably great; but, for those like myself who have already been at it for a while, it really has nothing new to offer. In addition to that, there is a LOT of Christian/religious fodder which (while it didn't really bother me as I knew it was coming) might not be everyone's cup of tea.
All that said, I can't in good conscience give this book less than 3 stars as it was Josh Becker (and his blog upon which this book is based) that really got me going and motivated when I got into this whole thing last year.
Also, let me make something else clear:
I am NOT rich.
But I AM definitely privileged.
And I recognize that this whole minimalism thing can be seen as an elitist endeavor.
I get that you must be someone privileged enough to have had too much stuff in order to want/need to get rid of some of it. I am not trying to preach or act like a martyr here, folks, I promise. This is just a book review.
For me, it's not about elitism or the "look" of minimalism. (I mean, hello, I still have a gazillion books on my shelves and a Disney coffee cup collection that makes me grin like a five year old at a Disney parade) It's about living a slower, more intentional life, getting rid of all my debt, and trying to be more grateful and generous.
Or as grateful and generous as my cynical, emotionless, black-hearted self can be.
Edited to add: I got into this last year, when I knew I would be walking away from a stressful 13 year career and taking a hefty pay cut as a result. For me, it’s not about getting rid of stuff for the sake of it. It’s about getting rid of stuff I don’t need or use and recognizing what useless stuff I buy for no reason as an emotional crutch or pick me up...so I can be more intentional about what I buy going forward and being better with my money. That’s all. I could give a shit if my house looks “minimalist” or not and all that bullshit. It’s just about having less clutter and stress and more time, intention, and money.
May 16, 2016
There was nothing new here compared to his other books and other authors have done better with this subject. I also didn't appreciate the gratuitous amount of Christian preaching that this book had. There should have been a disclaimer on the back that this was a religious book.
June 18, 2016
A very good book if you are considering cutting down on your stuff and just want a nudge to take the plunge. If you've already made that decision this will not be as useful.
April 6, 2019
To be honest, I skimmed this book, and I did so because:
1) I'm at the point where I'm more interested in practical application and exercises, not personal stories. A bit of that is fine, but every minimalist blogger or author has a story of how they came to to minimalism, and those stories aren't that different.
2) Religion. Becker is a Christian, and he states in the introduction that he's included bible stories as support of the minimalist lifestyle. Fair enough. That's not my cup of tea, as they say.
1) I'm at the point where I'm more interested in practical application and exercises, not personal stories. A bit of that is fine, but every minimalist blogger or author has a story of how they came to to minimalism, and those stories aren't that different.
2) Religion. Becker is a Christian, and he states in the introduction that he's included bible stories as support of the minimalist lifestyle. Fair enough. That's not my cup of tea, as they say.
August 18, 2016
In the world of simplicity/decluttering books (and there are a lot out there now), some say Joshua Becker says nothing new.
Others have criticized his emphasis on Christianity.
Here's my take:
1. I have read nearly ALL books having to do with minimalism, simplicity, decluttering, cleaning. This is probably my second-favorite, if not favorite (Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up is just quirky and intense enough to be vying for the top spot). Becker does say things others aren't saying: for instance, he's the only one I know who addresses each generation and talks about their own hindrances or tendencies when it comes to decluttering, which was very helpful. Unlike Marie Kondo and others, he introduces the concept of "leveling" (not getting rid of things totally, but boxing them up and moving them to a different location to see if you can live without them). He's also a proponent of starting small if you have to, and making it a lifestyle. I think this is more realistic for people, and the emphasis on small victories which keep you going is a truth also discovered by Dave Ramsey, who gives the same advice when it comes to debt reduction. Also, although other books address simplicity from a Christian standpoint, and occasionally point to Jesus as the example of a simple life, only Becker actually talks about Scripture in a way that reveals Jesus' heart towards possessions and His balanced treatment of people (I love the comparison between the Gadarene man and the rich young ruler). This shows that Jesus' intent was the heart, not to make giving away all your possessions a requirement for righteousness, therefore leading to works. Which leads me to point #2:
2. I loved it most because of the emphasis on Jesus, and Becker's declaration of Christianity. Sometimes I have felt he kept his faith veiled on his blog. He is unashamed in this book, and I love it. If someone is offended because they started reading it and didn't know it would have Christian references, I don't know how much more obvious it could be. The library call number on my copy is 241.68, which means you would be in the Christian section when you discover it. The subject on the classification page is "Simplicity - Religious aspects - Christianity". Very early on in the book, Becker writes, "My religious background has played a significant role in both by understanding and my practice of minimalism. You'll see me make the connection periodically through the book." So, no one should be surprised about that. However, I can honestly say that nothing in this book would offend someone of a different faith. In fact, Becker does a great job of showing the life examples of others who have embraced minimalism, and some of those have come through the teaching of Buddha and others.
Finally! This is the Jesus-focused approach to minimalism I have been looking for. I will recommend it to anyone wanting to learn more about minimalism, no matter what their faith. Thank you, Joshua Becker, for adding your voice to the mix!
Others have criticized his emphasis on Christianity.
Here's my take:
1. I have read nearly ALL books having to do with minimalism, simplicity, decluttering, cleaning. This is probably my second-favorite, if not favorite (Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up is just quirky and intense enough to be vying for the top spot). Becker does say things others aren't saying: for instance, he's the only one I know who addresses each generation and talks about their own hindrances or tendencies when it comes to decluttering, which was very helpful. Unlike Marie Kondo and others, he introduces the concept of "leveling" (not getting rid of things totally, but boxing them up and moving them to a different location to see if you can live without them). He's also a proponent of starting small if you have to, and making it a lifestyle. I think this is more realistic for people, and the emphasis on small victories which keep you going is a truth also discovered by Dave Ramsey, who gives the same advice when it comes to debt reduction. Also, although other books address simplicity from a Christian standpoint, and occasionally point to Jesus as the example of a simple life, only Becker actually talks about Scripture in a way that reveals Jesus' heart towards possessions and His balanced treatment of people (I love the comparison between the Gadarene man and the rich young ruler). This shows that Jesus' intent was the heart, not to make giving away all your possessions a requirement for righteousness, therefore leading to works. Which leads me to point #2:
2. I loved it most because of the emphasis on Jesus, and Becker's declaration of Christianity. Sometimes I have felt he kept his faith veiled on his blog. He is unashamed in this book, and I love it. If someone is offended because they started reading it and didn't know it would have Christian references, I don't know how much more obvious it could be. The library call number on my copy is 241.68, which means you would be in the Christian section when you discover it. The subject on the classification page is "Simplicity - Religious aspects - Christianity". Very early on in the book, Becker writes, "My religious background has played a significant role in both by understanding and my practice of minimalism. You'll see me make the connection periodically through the book." So, no one should be surprised about that. However, I can honestly say that nothing in this book would offend someone of a different faith. In fact, Becker does a great job of showing the life examples of others who have embraced minimalism, and some of those have come through the teaching of Buddha and others.
Finally! This is the Jesus-focused approach to minimalism I have been looking for. I will recommend it to anyone wanting to learn more about minimalism, no matter what their faith. Thank you, Joshua Becker, for adding your voice to the mix!
July 22, 2016
So I've been a minimalist for a solid year and a half now and it's been almost two years since I started researching and toying with the idea of it. For a while I said I was on a "minimalist kick," but clearly it's not just a kick anymore.
Joshua Becker's blog, Becoming Minimalist, has been one of my favorite resources as I've progressed on my minimalism journey, so even though I'm nowhere near the beginning of my minimalism journey and have read a lot of his stuff, I was still excited to pick this up.
This is an excellent starting place for anyone who is thinking about shifting to a minimalist lifestyle. Becker goes through and discusses the why of minimalism, the various benefits of minimalism ranging from less stress to better health to more time to more money and everything in between, and continues by giving you specific action steps and ideas for doing an initial decluttering of your home and continuing to experiment with less in different ways until you find the right balance for your own life. He shares stories about his personal journey with minimalism, along with the stories of many other prominent people in the minimalist movement, many of which I had read, but many of which were also new to me.
Though I'm basically done with the initial decluttering of my home (still have to tackle that kitchen), I still really appreciated Becker's insight and thoughts on the value of simplifying your possession and your life. If you're at all considering minimalism, I would definitely recommend checking this book out. You will not be disappointed.
Joshua Becker's blog, Becoming Minimalist, has been one of my favorite resources as I've progressed on my minimalism journey, so even though I'm nowhere near the beginning of my minimalism journey and have read a lot of his stuff, I was still excited to pick this up.
This is an excellent starting place for anyone who is thinking about shifting to a minimalist lifestyle. Becker goes through and discusses the why of minimalism, the various benefits of minimalism ranging from less stress to better health to more time to more money and everything in between, and continues by giving you specific action steps and ideas for doing an initial decluttering of your home and continuing to experiment with less in different ways until you find the right balance for your own life. He shares stories about his personal journey with minimalism, along with the stories of many other prominent people in the minimalist movement, many of which I had read, but many of which were also new to me.
Though I'm basically done with the initial decluttering of my home (still have to tackle that kitchen), I still really appreciated Becker's insight and thoughts on the value of simplifying your possession and your life. If you're at all considering minimalism, I would definitely recommend checking this book out. You will not be disappointed.
July 14, 2016
Mediocre at best.
Didn't realize the overt religiosity contained in the book. Becker attempts to justify the biblical bits as "relevant to all faiths and viewpoints" but he does come off as very preachy and self-richeous.
I was reading this book to gain inspiration to continue my journey in minimalism. I had previously read Marie Kondo's Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up and followed Cait Flanders (Blonde on a Budget)'s process of owning less and living more simply, which I found completely inspirational.
On the other hand, I found this account to be grating.
Further, as you get further into the book, he starts to expound on his fitness and nutritional habits, and I feel like screaming at him to "stay in his lane!" I know we have largely become a "post-fact" society, where we tend to over-weight anecdotal accounts of how to better our lives, but in this case, I felt it was jarring to hear someone wax on about how his experience of minimalism has suddenly also enabled him with the knowledge and expertise to tell people how to pursue fitness and health goals.
Maybe you might like it, but I would not recommend.
Didn't realize the overt religiosity contained in the book. Becker attempts to justify the biblical bits as "relevant to all faiths and viewpoints" but he does come off as very preachy and self-richeous.
I was reading this book to gain inspiration to continue my journey in minimalism. I had previously read Marie Kondo's Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up and followed Cait Flanders (Blonde on a Budget)'s process of owning less and living more simply, which I found completely inspirational.
On the other hand, I found this account to be grating.
Further, as you get further into the book, he starts to expound on his fitness and nutritional habits, and I feel like screaming at him to "stay in his lane!" I know we have largely become a "post-fact" society, where we tend to over-weight anecdotal accounts of how to better our lives, but in this case, I felt it was jarring to hear someone wax on about how his experience of minimalism has suddenly also enabled him with the knowledge and expertise to tell people how to pursue fitness and health goals.
Maybe you might like it, but I would not recommend.
June 14, 2019
Ця книга вже змінила моє сприйняття багатьох речей. Відчуваю, що далі принципи, описані в ній, змінять все моє життя ❤️
Я вже давно була готова до мінімалізму. Багато чула про систему Марі Кондо, навіть щось чистила, викидала/віддавала, але не більше того.
В цій книзі мені особливо сподобалась подача - ми не чистимо житло заради чистого житла, а робимо це заради вивільнення часу, грошей та усвідомлення себе.
Є конкретні поради як залучити до мінімалізму свою «другу половинку», або дітей. Також чітко розписано як підтримувати наведений мінімалістичний лад. Куди дівати вивільнені активи))
Ідеально! Без зайвої води, коротко і лише важливе.
Я вже давно була готова до мінімалізму. Багато чула про систему Марі Кондо, навіть щось чистила, викидала/віддавала, але не більше того.
В цій книзі мені особливо сподобалась подача - ми не чистимо житло заради чистого житла, а робимо це заради вивільнення часу, грошей та усвідомлення себе.
Є конкретні поради як залучити до мінімалізму свою «другу половинку», або дітей. Також чітко розписано як підтримувати наведений мінімалістичний лад. Куди дівати вивільнені активи))
Ідеально! Без зайвої води, коротко і лише важливе.
September 29, 2016
One star is probably too harsh because the writing was fine, it was easy to read and moved along. He just didn't have much to say. From the intro, I thought it was going to be more of a memoir of his experiences with minimalism, with some insights from a Christian perspective. Instead, it's really just decluttering tips gathered from various sources with some social science statistics stuck in and a couple of bible stories. His pastoral background came through in his constant exhortations to action, which got really annoying, especially when he drifted into general live your best life stuff. I mean, he literally tells you to eat your vegetables. Also, this is the only organizing book I've ever read that didn't make me desperately want to go organize something!
June 8, 2017
Some good advice in this book. Would have been higher rating if not for the Christian/Jesus references throughout the book. Felt preachy at times. If the book would have been named The More Of Less for the Christian Soul I could have decided to read it, or not, with that context. But it's not. If Christian messages are not your cup of tea, stay away.
June 9, 2020
Однозначно варто читати, коли хочеться впевненості в тому, що твоє перебування на планеті є доцільним (в авто��а ну просто дуже кльово виходить знаходити мотиватори у мікродеталях). Стосовно практичних принципів - туговато (це більш світоглядно-орієнтований текст). Але не те, щоб їх немає зовсім. Деякі можна вмістити у наступні правила:
- життя без речей стає насиченішим, бо ми не приділяємо стільки часу прибиранню/прасуванню/підмітанню/переставлянню/упорядкуванню і всім іншим - анню, натомість вивільняється час для себе і улюбленої справи (а якщо ви не знаєте, яка ваша улюблена справа і що робити з собою - теж не біда, в автора знайдеться пару порад);
- пробувати позбавлятись речей потрібно невеликими частинами, а якщо ви думаєте, що не зможете прожити без цієї речі - просто відкладіть її убік на місяць, і результат не змусить довго чекати, у 90% випадків (як стверджується) ми не повертаємось до цих речей;
- не треба думати, що мінімалізм - це відмова від усього, ви можете спокійно залишати те, що хочеться і чим користуєтесь, навіть купувати нові потрібні речі, але челенджі по типу 99 днів без жодної покупки, 50 речей на півроку і в тому дусі - теж стануть чудовою нагодою проявити витривалість і силу духу;
- і найголовіше - те, що прямуючи до розхращення матеріального боку життя, ми поступово розхаращуємо наш не матеріальний бік, позбуваємось небажених контактів і залежностей, шукаємо нових шляхів і способів.
Не почала ще це все втілювати, але задумка - чудова, головне - не перегоріти і діяти вже, бо знаючи себе, можна з легкістю прокрастинувати всі можливості і забути про всі прочитані благі починання.
- життя без речей стає насиченішим, бо ми не приділяємо стільки часу прибиранню/прасуванню/підмітанню/переставлянню/упорядкуванню і всім іншим - анню, натомість вивільняється час для себе і улюбленої справи (а якщо ви не знаєте, яка ваша улюблена справа і що робити з собою - теж не біда, в автора знайдеться пару порад);
- пробувати позбавлятись речей потрібно невеликими частинами, а якщо ви думаєте, що не зможете прожити без цієї речі - просто відкладіть її убік на місяць, і результат не змусить довго чекати, у 90% випадків (як стверджується) ми не повертаємось до цих речей;
- не треба думати, що мінімалізм - це відмова від усього, ви можете спокійно залишати те, що хочеться і чим користуєтесь, навіть купувати нові потрібні речі, але челенджі по типу 99 днів без жодної покупки, 50 речей на півроку і в тому дусі - теж стануть чудовою нагодою проявити витривалість і силу духу;
- і найголовіше - те, що прямуючи до розхращення матеріального боку життя, ми поступово розхаращуємо наш не матеріальний бік, позбуваємось небажених контактів і залежностей, шукаємо нових шляхів і способів.
Не почала ще це все втілювати, але задумка - чудова, головне - не перегоріти і діяти вже, бо знаючи себе, можна з легкістю прокрастинувати всі можливості і забути про всі прочитані благі починання.
April 16, 2017
A book on minimalism life style but nothing new, at least for me... Probably better for someone who is completely new to minimalism. The only useful take home message for me is the 29 rule - remove 29 or 29% of your items (e.g., clothes, kitchen appliances, etc.) for 29 days and see if you're still eager to put them back. If not, better get rid of it.
June 23, 2017
I have followed the author's blog for quite a while, so the book was a bit repetitive for me. Plus, there were too many religious "tie-ins" that I wasn't expecting. If you're not familiar with minimalism this would be a good start though.
March 5, 2021
والله كتاب ظريف، بيحكي فيه المؤلف عن فكرة التخلّي والزهد ومن منطلق ديني تشبهاً بالسيد المسيح عليه السلام.
وبيحكي عن آليات ترتيب المنزل، والتخلص من الأشياء غير الضرورية.
12 فصل، كل فصل فيه قائمة بالتعليمات الواجب اتباعها.
لغته سهلة، وبعض المعلومات مكررة.
وبيحكي عن آليات ترتيب المنزل، والتخلص من الأشياء غير الضرورية.
12 فصل، كل فصل فيه قائمة بالتعليمات الواجب اتباعها.
لغته سهلة، وبعض المعلومات مكررة.
September 28, 2019
Did not finish.
I've read quite a few books on minimalism & decluttering so far, and at this point I can tell pretty early on whether a book on this topic will be for me. This wasn't. I have an extreme disconnect with religion and the moment he started writing about Jesus I was like, "NOPE."Didn't get very far in, though, so if you're a Christian you might enjoy it.
Read these books instead:
Goodbye, Things: On Minimalist Living
The Joy of Less: A Minimalist Guide to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify
I've read quite a few books on minimalism & decluttering so far, and at this point I can tell pretty early on whether a book on this topic will be for me. This wasn't. I have an extreme disconnect with religion and the moment he started writing about Jesus I was like, "NOPE."Didn't get very far in, though, so if you're a Christian you might enjoy it.
Read these books instead:
Goodbye, Things: On Minimalist Living
The Joy of Less: A Minimalist Guide to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify
September 27, 2017
First off this book is from a Christian perspective. I'm Christian so this worked for me and made me appreciate it even more. However for those who will be turned off by scripture stories this might not be for you (they are just at the beginning and at the end). This is the 4th clutter/dejunking/minimalizing book I have read in the past couple months. I found a lot of inspiration from this one. Not too many ideas on how to organize but great thoughts and stories that inspired me to want to change my lifestyle.
December 13, 2019
I love minimalism. This book is allllll about it haha obvie...
I enjoyed the mindset and strategies to tackle clutter and gave me motivation to get rid of stuff! And also to give.
I enjoyed the mindset and strategies to tackle clutter and gave me motivation to get rid of stuff! And also to give.
October 5, 2018
**Disclaimer** I checked this book out from the local library, so it did not add permanent clutter to my house :)
I'm going limit my review to a list of things I liked and didn't like, since this is a book about minimalism after all.
Bottom line: Living life to extremes is rarely good. This applies both to full throttle consumerism, and also to heavily applied minimalism. Surely there is room in our society for a happy middle ground between the McMansions and tiny homes. For my family it means being content with our 1800 sq foot house with regular closets and no storage unit. I don't need 25 pairs of shoes, but I don't want only 5 pairs either. Being content, generous, and kind was the focus of the last few chapters. Find balance in a way that makes sense to you. Given 3 stars or a rating of "Good".
Link: Chevy Chase re-discovering memories in his attic in National Lampooon's Christmas Vacation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-HkO5...
I'm going limit my review to a list of things I liked and didn't like, since this is a book about minimalism after all.
What I liked: First, Minimalism is a needed force to push against the excess in our modern society. Our houses are (on average) *1000* square feet larger than in 1970 (2700 vs. 1700). This is despite the fact that our families are smaller. We have come to expect walk in closets in the master bedroom, and some houses even offer "his" and "hers" separate walk in closets!! We like to buy things, and companies have capitalized on this by promoting gift giving at virtually every holiday. Gone are the years when Easter baskets had a bunny and some candy. Now they have Iphone accessories, gift cards, clothes, etc. Do we really need all this? Is it actually making us happy? Becker asks us to examine these questions.
Second, Becker reminds us multiple times that relationships are what are important, and that relationships (more than possessions) give us love, security, a sense of belonging, and a purpose in life. When we work overtime to make mortgage payments on a ginormous house or a luxury car we are not only adding stress to our lives, we also have less time to spend with our family and friends. He brings this concept up again in the last chapter when he talks about donating time and/or money to charity. He mentions the positive benefits to communities from strong networks of active volunteers. Again, relationships build security. In this case, it builds a strong, resilient community.
Finally, Becker touts buying quality over quantity. For those of us who are interested in minimalism for environmental reasons, this is an important point. We have become a "throw away" society in a sense. 100 years ago people took care of their possessions, and fixed them whenever possible. Now seamstresses and shoe cobblers are a dying breed b/c most people would rather buy new shoes instead of fixing the sole on their current pair. When we study reviews, do our research, and then pick products based on their durability/quality we put less trash in the landfill, and probably save money in the long run too!
What I didn't like: Fair warning, Becker is a minister, and his beliefs come through loud and clear in the book. If you don't mind that, or share his beliefs, then no problem. But many people will have a hard time relating to the religious references.
Second, Just as people can focus too much on possessions, its possible to focus to much on a *lack* of possessions. He advocates the "29" rule. Basically put stuff in boxes, and if you don't use it within 29 days, then it is safe to throw/give it away. For clothing and kitchen items this is probably a decent rule of thumb (although don't put your winter boots in a box in June!), but for the garage and many other items this rule breaks down. We go camping 1-2 times a year and it is a great source of enjoyment for our family. I'm not going to throw away our assorted (organized) gear b/c we don't use it monthly. Same goes for beach towels, our canoe, and our holiday decorations. Also, I have a well stocked first aid kit (I'm a nurse after all!). I *HOPE* I don't have to use it every 29 days, and I'm certainly not going to throw it away if I don't. I understand that his point was to use this method for items when you are unsure of their value, but I would argue that seldom used things are not worthless. And I certainly don't need to purge my home of many of them.
Bottom line: Living life to extremes is rarely good. This applies both to full throttle consumerism, and also to heavily applied minimalism. Surely there is room in our society for a happy middle ground between the McMansions and tiny homes. For my family it means being content with our 1800 sq foot house with regular closets and no storage unit. I don't need 25 pairs of shoes, but I don't want only 5 pairs either. Being content, generous, and kind was the focus of the last few chapters. Find balance in a way that makes sense to you. Given 3 stars or a rating of "Good".
Link: Chevy Chase re-discovering memories in his attic in National Lampooon's Christmas Vacation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-HkO5...
January 10, 2018
3.5 rounded up.
This was good but not great, and it got a little preachy at the end. Joshua Becker's ultimate hope is that you use minimalism as a way to give back to the community in a big way, as in 'since we downsized and now pay $3,000 less a year in mortgage costs, let's donate our $3,000 Christmas bonus to a village in Africa so they can have clean water'. I think Becker's heart is in the right place, but this seems a bit of a stretch for me. I truly hope to be increasingly more charitable in my life as the days and years go by, but if I somehow manage to slash $3,000 from my yearly mortgage cost, then I'm afraid it's going to have to go towards the kids college fund or retirement or some other un-fun necessity. I'm no strange to charity. I'm a Mormon and that rumor you've heard that 10% of our income goes to the church is true (the misnomer is that this is required. Not true. This is voluntary and we do this because we believe in this practice. We're converts and trust me when I say we've done our homework, and 100% of this money goes to extremely good causes and things we believe in). We also give throughout the year in various ways. But my specific goals in minimalism are not to do this kind of charity work, though I do hope to always participate in these kind of outreaches now and throughout my life. For me the two are not one and the same. It would be fantastic if minimalism did lead to me to one day freeing up enough of my time and resources to be able to pursue these kind of bigger charitable goals, but for now my minimalism goals are less grand, such as downsizing in all ways and being able to keep living in a very expensive state (Connecticut) so we can remain near family, paying off our mortgage, saving our money for retirement, being able to one day afford a family vacation of our own, and all those kind of things. Lots of handy and inspiring info in this book, but like I said, a little preachy at the end, but also like I said, Becker does have his heart in the right place.
This was good but not great, and it got a little preachy at the end. Joshua Becker's ultimate hope is that you use minimalism as a way to give back to the community in a big way, as in 'since we downsized and now pay $3,000 less a year in mortgage costs, let's donate our $3,000 Christmas bonus to a village in Africa so they can have clean water'. I think Becker's heart is in the right place, but this seems a bit of a stretch for me. I truly hope to be increasingly more charitable in my life as the days and years go by, but if I somehow manage to slash $3,000 from my yearly mortgage cost, then I'm afraid it's going to have to go towards the kids college fund or retirement or some other un-fun necessity. I'm no strange to charity. I'm a Mormon and that rumor you've heard that 10% of our income goes to the church is true (the misnomer is that this is required. Not true. This is voluntary and we do this because we believe in this practice. We're converts and trust me when I say we've done our homework, and 100% of this money goes to extremely good causes and things we believe in). We also give throughout the year in various ways. But my specific goals in minimalism are not to do this kind of charity work, though I do hope to always participate in these kind of outreaches now and throughout my life. For me the two are not one and the same. It would be fantastic if minimalism did lead to me to one day freeing up enough of my time and resources to be able to pursue these kind of bigger charitable goals, but for now my minimalism goals are less grand, such as downsizing in all ways and being able to keep living in a very expensive state (Connecticut) so we can remain near family, paying off our mortgage, saving our money for retirement, being able to one day afford a family vacation of our own, and all those kind of things. Lots of handy and inspiring info in this book, but like I said, a little preachy at the end, but also like I said, Becker does have his heart in the right place.
May 3, 2016
Over the weekend I had the pleasure of reading an advance copy of Joshua Becker’s new book, “The More of Less.” By the 2nd chapter, I had to put the book down for a second to get a highlighter. As I continued to read, I started thinking, “I can’t wait to pass this book on to (insert several friends’ names here).” But then I realized I want to keep my copy as a reference. So, spoiler alert, my new go-to all-occasion gift is this terrific book.
Reading “The More of Less” is like listening to a friend. Joshua has a way of writing that is completely engaging, leading you ever forward towards a fuller, better way of life. He is honest about the struggles, yet gives you confidence that you can achieve the goals of minimalism that suit you.
The chapters are arranged so that you move from understanding what minimalism is, then how to strategically go about decluttering, and finally, creating a significant, intentional life. Not bad for 220 pages, huh?
I hope you choose to read Joshua’s book, and that you find as much value in “The More of Less” as I did, and continue to do.
Reading “The More of Less” is like listening to a friend. Joshua has a way of writing that is completely engaging, leading you ever forward towards a fuller, better way of life. He is honest about the struggles, yet gives you confidence that you can achieve the goals of minimalism that suit you.
The chapters are arranged so that you move from understanding what minimalism is, then how to strategically go about decluttering, and finally, creating a significant, intentional life. Not bad for 220 pages, huh?
I hope you choose to read Joshua’s book, and that you find as much value in “The More of Less” as I did, and continue to do.
September 28, 2017
An excellent beginner's guide to minimalism. Plenty of practical advise for starting out, and I really enjoyed his attitude/mindset towards minimalism - not just in material things but in your time and relationships as well. He suggests looking at your life to figure out what you actually need as opposed to what you can afford (or aquire with credit.) Thoughtful subtopics include minimizing along with others in the fam, and how to encourage minimizing with kids.
And this isn't simply reducing for the sake of reducing. Mr. Becker goes into detail about what you are GAINING by reducing. I would almost call his methods Simplism instead of Minimalism, or finding just the right 'minimum' for your own life, happiness and well-being.
Mr. Becker includes plenty of religious fodder and biblical quotes in the book, but since he's been a pastor for many years, I don't suppose one can simply turn that off. LOL I found both the strategy and tactics so useful that I didn't mind the occasional sermon.
And this isn't simply reducing for the sake of reducing. Mr. Becker goes into detail about what you are GAINING by reducing. I would almost call his methods Simplism instead of Minimalism, or finding just the right 'minimum' for your own life, happiness and well-being.
Mr. Becker includes plenty of religious fodder and biblical quotes in the book, but since he's been a pastor for many years, I don't suppose one can simply turn that off. LOL I found both the strategy and tactics so useful that I didn't mind the occasional sermon.
August 13, 2016
I had very high hopes for this one, as I am a minimalist at heart, but I was disappointed. Maybe I've just read all there is to read on the subject but I kept having the feeling that Becker was trying to sell me on minimalism, literally, which I suppose makes sense since promoting it is his job, and as such it came across to me as a series of soundbites as opposed to sincerity. I'm sure living this way has changed his life for the better but I just never felt inspired to make any changes or even to put the book down and throw something away.
December 28, 2019
Книга, яка надихнула мене розхламити полиці, лишити ще менше книг та речей, впорядкувати свій хлам на полицях та одяг.
⠀
Але я не дуже то мені й сподобалась через... надлишок води.
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Ні, книга хороша.
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Вона така, знаєте, душевна, мов поруч з вами сидить добрий знайомий і неспішно розповідає про свій досвід розхламлення. ДУЖЕ неспішно: через історії, приклади з власного життя, діалоги, притчі і подібні замальовки.
⠀
Суть книги можна викласти на кількох сторінках, але наврядчи це б мало такий вплив. Головна ідея — звільнення простору сприяє звільненню енергії. Автор книги вивіз з будинку чотири міні вени речей! Уявити собі не можу цей масштаб, бо тут кілька пакетів — і вже трагедія. Але і у наших людей є ця схильність "мати більше": я вже згадувала про нескінченні блогерські розпаковки, тонни косметики, одягу, взуття... Навіщо стільки одній людині?
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Книга вчить запитувати себе завжди: мені це треба? Чи справді Я цього хочу? Чи, може, хтось хоче, щоб я цього хотіла? А такого дуже багато! Всі довкола хочуть, щоб ми купували. Але при цьому ми завжди думаємо, що робимо цей вибір самі.
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Мій відгук вийшов у стилі цієї книги: майже на максимум символів, а суті — на одне речення. Готові до такого? Читайте! Та і взагалі, якщо вам давно болить стан вашого житла і його захламленість — читайте. Америку ця книга не відкриє, але спонукати до роздумів та прибирання зможе.
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Але я не дуже то мені й сподобалась через... надлишок води.
⠀
Ні, книга хороша.
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Вона така, знаєте, душевна, мов поруч з вами сидить добрий знайомий і неспішно розповідає про свій досвід розхламлення. ДУЖЕ неспішно: через історії, приклади з власного життя, діалоги, притчі і подібні замальовки.
⠀
Суть книги можна викласти на кількох сторінках, але наврядчи це б мало такий вплив. Головна ідея — звільнення простору сприяє звільненню енергії. Автор книги вивіз з будинку чотири міні вени речей! Уявити собі не можу цей масштаб, бо тут кілька пакетів — і вже трагедія. Але і у наших людей є ця схильність "мати більше": я вже згадувала про нескінченні блогерські розпаковки, тонни косметики, одягу, взуття... Навіщо стільки одній людині?
⠀
Книга вчить запитувати себе завжди: мені це треба? Чи справді Я цього хочу? Чи, може, хтось хоче, щоб я цього хотіла? А такого дуже багато! Всі довкола хочуть, щоб ми купували. Але при цьому ми завжди думаємо, що робимо цей вибір самі.
⠀
Мій відгук вийшов у стилі цієї книги: майже на максимум символів, а суті — на одне речення. Готові до такого? Читайте! Та і взагалі, якщо вам давно болить стан вашого житла і його захламленість — читайте. Америку ця книга не відкриє, але спонукати до роздумів та прибирання зможе.
January 21, 2020
Me he resistido a escribir esta minireseña porque no sé bien cómo expresar lo que siento.
El autor es cristiano, pero no escribe para cristianos. Eso está bien. Hay muchos cristianos enseñando a través de sus palabras al público en general. El asunto es que Becker quiere utilizar principios cristianos para comunicar los beneficios del minimalismo, aún cuando su audiencia no es creyente. Es ahí donde creo que las cosas no funcionan tan bien.
Por ejemplo, Becker escribe:
[Sobre el encuentro de Jesús con el joven rico]: "Era una invitación para una mejor vida. ¡Las posesiones de este hombre le estaban impidiendo vivir verdaderamente! Esta es una verdad que las personas de cualquier creencia espiritual pueden abrazar".
Yo respondo: No lo creo. Jesús llamó a este hombre a dejar sus riquezas y a seguirle a ÉL, no a seguir "cualquier cosa que te haga feliz ahora que eres libre de tus cosas".
El asunto es que Becker sabe que está usando versos fuera de contexto. En varias ocasiones menciona cosas como "sé que este pasaje no se está refiriendo a esto, pero creo que podemos aprender...".
Si vas a escribir un libro sobre cualquier cosa para una audiencia en general, no necesitas torcer la Biblia para hacer tu punto. Si crees que el mensaje de la Biblia es esencial para comunicar una idea, entonces escríbelo así, no queriendo quedar bien con todos.
En fin, creo que Joshua pudo haber escrito un libro sobre el minimalismo en general y luego pudo haber escrito otro mostrando cómo el minimalismo puede ser una herramienta para que los creyentes vivan conforme a las Escrituras. Pero creo que todo se arruina cuando intenta hacer un poquito de todo.
El autor es cristiano, pero no escribe para cristianos. Eso está bien. Hay muchos cristianos enseñando a través de sus palabras al público en general. El asunto es que Becker quiere utilizar principios cristianos para comunicar los beneficios del minimalismo, aún cuando su audiencia no es creyente. Es ahí donde creo que las cosas no funcionan tan bien.
Por ejemplo, Becker escribe:
[Sobre el encuentro de Jesús con el joven rico]: "Era una invitación para una mejor vida. ¡Las posesiones de este hombre le estaban impidiendo vivir verdaderamente! Esta es una verdad que las personas de cualquier creencia espiritual pueden abrazar".
Yo respondo: No lo creo. Jesús llamó a este hombre a dejar sus riquezas y a seguirle a ÉL, no a seguir "cualquier cosa que te haga feliz ahora que eres libre de tus cosas".
El asunto es que Becker sabe que está usando versos fuera de contexto. En varias ocasiones menciona cosas como "sé que este pasaje no se está refiriendo a esto, pero creo que podemos aprender...".
Si vas a escribir un libro sobre cualquier cosa para una audiencia en general, no necesitas torcer la Biblia para hacer tu punto. Si crees que el mensaje de la Biblia es esencial para comunicar una idea, entonces escríbelo así, no queriendo quedar bien con todos.
En fin, creo que Joshua pudo haber escrito un libro sobre el minimalismo en general y luego pudo haber escrito otro mostrando cómo el minimalismo puede ser una herramienta para que los creyentes vivan conforme a las Escrituras. Pero creo que todo se arruina cuando intenta hacer un poquito de todo.
May 23, 2020
Audio - 4.5⭐️ I love reading and hearing anything to do with minimalism. Am I a minimalist? Far from it. But I’m working on changes. So I enjoyed the message. I just need to take action.
June 1, 2016
I'm so attracted to the idea of minimalism, but I'm also such an over-spender and shopper and Target lover, ya know? So this one definitely sparked my interest when I saw it come by the office book pile of advanced reader copies we get from publishers. It, like Marie Kondo's book, made me PURGE my closets and room and everything, which I think is exactly the point. I'm really adopting much more of a minimalist mindset about my spending and really trying to streamline how I spend money and what I purchase, and I'm loving the process. This is an easy read, but the implications of what Becker talks about are powerful and I highly recommend this one if you're at all curious about what it looks like to live minimally or you're feeling overwhelmed by all the things in your life.
August 24, 2019
A super decent book on minimalism that actually tells you HOW to decrease your items. It gives you a ton of different options/challenges, like
- Throw out 1000 items
- Pack away 29 items for 29 days
etc. Along with a lot of other ones.
- Throw out 1000 items
- Pack away 29 items for 29 days
etc. Along with a lot of other ones.
November 25, 2018
Joshua Becker was in 2008 bezig met het opruimen van zijn garage. Hij maakte tijdens het opruimen een praatje met zijn buurvrouw die zei: ‘Ja, we zijn niet allemaal minimalist zoals mijn dochter’. Toen ging er een lampje branden bij Joshua net als bij mij in 2012. ‘Minimalisme kan mij helpen om een leven te krijgen met meer overzicht, focus en rust’ dacht hij.
Hij begon met rigoureus opruimen en met zijn blog becomingminimalist.com. Zijn blog is inmiddels uitgegroeid tot één van de grootste blogs over minimalisme in de Verenigde Staten en zijn boek is het meest complete boek over minimalisme wat ik gelezen heb.
Ik heb maar liefst 124 stukken tekst gemarkeerd en het gemiddelde ligt bij mij ongeveer op 30 tot 40 markeringen per boek.
Twee grootste lessen uit het boek
1. Elke generatie kijkt anders naar het consumentisme en is op een andere manier bezig met minimalisme
Grote bedrijven doen er alles aan om ons zoveel mogelijk te verkopen. Hier zijn ze steeds beter in geworden de afgelopen 50 jaar. Alle generaties die nu op aarde leven hebben het industriële tijdperk verschillend beleefd.
• If you were born between 1928 and 1945, you are a part of the Silent Generation.
• If you were born between 1946 and 1964, you are a part of the Baby Boomer Generation.
• If you were born between 1965 and 1980, you are a part of Generation X.
• If you were born between 1981 and 2000, you are a part of the Millennial Generation.
Laat ik eerst zeggen dat denken in generaties een vorm van hokjesdenken is. Ik wil dus niet zeggen dat het voor iedereen zo geldt maar het was voor mij heel leerzaam om het grotere plaatje te zien. Voor mij was het een eye-opener om te gaan zien hoe elke generatie denkt over minimalisme. Ik ben hierdoor mijn familie maar ook andere mensen in mijn omgeving beter gaan begrijpen.
Tijdens de oorlog was er armoede en schaarste en na de oorlog was er weer de kans om een bestaan op te bouwen, maar dan moest er wel gewerkt worden. De grote bedrijven en fabrieken moesten goed draaien om de economie weer bloeiend te krijgen. Omdat het weer kon kon het ook niet op. Veel kopen was normaal. Nu komt er bijvoorbeeld bij de Baby Boom generatie meer een bewustzijn wat betreft overmatig kopen en voelt minimalisme voor de millennials natuurlijk aan. Al deze verschillen zijn heel goed om te zien en om te respecteren. Het helpt mij bij het communiceren van minimalisme naar anderen toe.
Bij deze een stuk uit mijn artikel ‘Verlangen naar minder’:
Voor millennials voelt minimalisme natuurlijk aan. We zijn verbonden, we werken in koffietentjes en zijn gesteld op een flexibele levensstijl. Daarnaast reizen we graag, en dat alles is nogal moeilijk met een huis vol spullen. Ik heb liever een paspoort vol stempels.
2. ‘Keep only the best’ en geef je spullen met extreme emotionele waarde een mooie plek in huis.
‘We evolved a strategy I call “only the best.” It’s what I recommend to anyone anguished over the prospect of removing some of the objects that have memories attached to them. We didn’t get rid of everything, nor did we keep all of it. We kept only the best — meaning the highest quality and most meaningful — items with which to remember former times and beloved people. Then, instead of keeping those special pieces in boxes, we found places for them in our home where we could see them. This way, our minds were actually drawn back to cherished memories more often’.
In het boek schrijft Joshua Becker over de zoektocht naar ‘meer’ spullen terwijl het zoeken naar ‘betere’ spullen veel beter is. Kijken naar duurzamere producten met meer kwaliteit.
Dit boek heeft mij er toe gezet om mijn spullen die voor mij een extreem emotionele waarde hebben een mooie plek te geven in huis. Op die manier geef je ze het verhaal dat ze verdienen en kun je het ook met andere mensen delen die op bezoek komen.
Mijn top vijf markeringen
1. MINIMALISM: the intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of anything that distracts us from them
2. What if, instead of being embarrassed over the quality and quantity of our possessions, we became embarrassed over how much money we have spent on our own selfish pursuits? What if excess became the cause of embarrassment? And responsible living that championed generosity became the norm? Maybe then we could become a little more proud of “normal.” Are you buying too many things and spending too much money because you want others to like and accept you? Change your view of what’s acceptable and what’s normal, and you will be freed from embarrassment and freed to make more of a positive difference in this world.
3. “If you can afford a fancy car, you make more of an impact driving an ordinary one.” Here’s how I have interpreted Mackay’s words: Although you could spend $60,000 on a luxury car to drive around town with style, it’s better to spend $30,000 on a more modest, yet still serviceable, car and have $30,000 left to solve a real problem in the world. In the end, buying the $30,000 car actually leads to greater joy and longer-lasting fulfillment.
4. Magazines overexpose the details of the lives of the rich and famous. News publications rank people according to their net worth. Reality television applauds the lifestyles of those who live in luxury. The Internet attracts readers with countless stories about those who appear to be living the good life. In our own lives we do the same. We comment on the size of the houses in the neighborhood nearby. We point out the luxury car in the lane next to us. We envy fashionable clothes and designer handbags. We make jokes about marrying into money. We dream of a life without limits because of our riches. We desire to live the life of those who seem to have it all. In our hearts and in our affections, we praise those who live with excess. But we are making a big mistake. Success and excess are not the same. Admire success. But do not celebrate excess. Learning to know the difference will change your life.
5. Material possessions will never fully satisfy the desires of our hearts. (That’s why discontentment always returns after a purchase.)
Kijk voor meer boekreviews op mijn YouTube kanaal: http://www.youtube.com/growthinkers
Hij begon met rigoureus opruimen en met zijn blog becomingminimalist.com. Zijn blog is inmiddels uitgegroeid tot één van de grootste blogs over minimalisme in de Verenigde Staten en zijn boek is het meest complete boek over minimalisme wat ik gelezen heb.
Ik heb maar liefst 124 stukken tekst gemarkeerd en het gemiddelde ligt bij mij ongeveer op 30 tot 40 markeringen per boek.
Twee grootste lessen uit het boek
1. Elke generatie kijkt anders naar het consumentisme en is op een andere manier bezig met minimalisme
Grote bedrijven doen er alles aan om ons zoveel mogelijk te verkopen. Hier zijn ze steeds beter in geworden de afgelopen 50 jaar. Alle generaties die nu op aarde leven hebben het industriële tijdperk verschillend beleefd.
• If you were born between 1928 and 1945, you are a part of the Silent Generation.
• If you were born between 1946 and 1964, you are a part of the Baby Boomer Generation.
• If you were born between 1965 and 1980, you are a part of Generation X.
• If you were born between 1981 and 2000, you are a part of the Millennial Generation.
Laat ik eerst zeggen dat denken in generaties een vorm van hokjesdenken is. Ik wil dus niet zeggen dat het voor iedereen zo geldt maar het was voor mij heel leerzaam om het grotere plaatje te zien. Voor mij was het een eye-opener om te gaan zien hoe elke generatie denkt over minimalisme. Ik ben hierdoor mijn familie maar ook andere mensen in mijn omgeving beter gaan begrijpen.
Tijdens de oorlog was er armoede en schaarste en na de oorlog was er weer de kans om een bestaan op te bouwen, maar dan moest er wel gewerkt worden. De grote bedrijven en fabrieken moesten goed draaien om de economie weer bloeiend te krijgen. Omdat het weer kon kon het ook niet op. Veel kopen was normaal. Nu komt er bijvoorbeeld bij de Baby Boom generatie meer een bewustzijn wat betreft overmatig kopen en voelt minimalisme voor de millennials natuurlijk aan. Al deze verschillen zijn heel goed om te zien en om te respecteren. Het helpt mij bij het communiceren van minimalisme naar anderen toe.
Bij deze een stuk uit mijn artikel ‘Verlangen naar minder’:
Voor millennials voelt minimalisme natuurlijk aan. We zijn verbonden, we werken in koffietentjes en zijn gesteld op een flexibele levensstijl. Daarnaast reizen we graag, en dat alles is nogal moeilijk met een huis vol spullen. Ik heb liever een paspoort vol stempels.
2. ‘Keep only the best’ en geef je spullen met extreme emotionele waarde een mooie plek in huis.
‘We evolved a strategy I call “only the best.” It’s what I recommend to anyone anguished over the prospect of removing some of the objects that have memories attached to them. We didn’t get rid of everything, nor did we keep all of it. We kept only the best — meaning the highest quality and most meaningful — items with which to remember former times and beloved people. Then, instead of keeping those special pieces in boxes, we found places for them in our home where we could see them. This way, our minds were actually drawn back to cherished memories more often’.
In het boek schrijft Joshua Becker over de zoektocht naar ‘meer’ spullen terwijl het zoeken naar ‘betere’ spullen veel beter is. Kijken naar duurzamere producten met meer kwaliteit.
Dit boek heeft mij er toe gezet om mijn spullen die voor mij een extreem emotionele waarde hebben een mooie plek te geven in huis. Op die manier geef je ze het verhaal dat ze verdienen en kun je het ook met andere mensen delen die op bezoek komen.
Mijn top vijf markeringen
1. MINIMALISM: the intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of anything that distracts us from them
2. What if, instead of being embarrassed over the quality and quantity of our possessions, we became embarrassed over how much money we have spent on our own selfish pursuits? What if excess became the cause of embarrassment? And responsible living that championed generosity became the norm? Maybe then we could become a little more proud of “normal.” Are you buying too many things and spending too much money because you want others to like and accept you? Change your view of what’s acceptable and what’s normal, and you will be freed from embarrassment and freed to make more of a positive difference in this world.
3. “If you can afford a fancy car, you make more of an impact driving an ordinary one.” Here’s how I have interpreted Mackay’s words: Although you could spend $60,000 on a luxury car to drive around town with style, it’s better to spend $30,000 on a more modest, yet still serviceable, car and have $30,000 left to solve a real problem in the world. In the end, buying the $30,000 car actually leads to greater joy and longer-lasting fulfillment.
4. Magazines overexpose the details of the lives of the rich and famous. News publications rank people according to their net worth. Reality television applauds the lifestyles of those who live in luxury. The Internet attracts readers with countless stories about those who appear to be living the good life. In our own lives we do the same. We comment on the size of the houses in the neighborhood nearby. We point out the luxury car in the lane next to us. We envy fashionable clothes and designer handbags. We make jokes about marrying into money. We dream of a life without limits because of our riches. We desire to live the life of those who seem to have it all. In our hearts and in our affections, we praise those who live with excess. But we are making a big mistake. Success and excess are not the same. Admire success. But do not celebrate excess. Learning to know the difference will change your life.
5. Material possessions will never fully satisfy the desires of our hearts. (That’s why discontentment always returns after a purchase.)
Kijk voor meer boekreviews op mijn YouTube kanaal: http://www.youtube.com/growthinkers
December 13, 2020
“But nobody gets to the end of life wishing they had bought more things. Why is that? Because consumption never fully delivers on its promise of fulfillment or happiness. Instead, it steals our freedom and results only in an unquenchable desire for more. It brings burden and regret. It distracts us from the very things that do bring us joy."
I feel like a need a organizational/decluttering book once a quarter.
This is a great get started book on minimalism. I have followed Joshua Becker for a while on FB- I like his minimalist approach. This book is about how he got started with his blog and passion for minimalism.
He includes some stories of people that have changed their lives and others lives through this approach.
And yes, while listening I did go through my clothes and my kids toys and got rid of more junk. We truely do have so much!
“The goal of minimalism, let’s remember, is not just to own less stuff. The goal of minimalism is to unburden our lives so we can accomplish more.”
I feel like a need a organizational/decluttering book once a quarter.
This is a great get started book on minimalism. I have followed Joshua Becker for a while on FB- I like his minimalist approach. This book is about how he got started with his blog and passion for minimalism.
He includes some stories of people that have changed their lives and others lives through this approach.
And yes, while listening I did go through my clothes and my kids toys and got rid of more junk. We truely do have so much!
“The goal of minimalism, let’s remember, is not just to own less stuff. The goal of minimalism is to unburden our lives so we can accomplish more.”
March 8, 2023
This book is a good intro into minimalism- and it’s an interesting foray into how living by biblical principles has real life benefits even if you don’t consider yourself a Christian. As I’m trying to downsize and get rid of stuff, he brought up a lot of principles and practical ideas that I found really helpful, and he has lots of practical examples. It’s a light, easy, read, and it will definitely help you re-examine your relationship with your possessions.
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