1. Buy Nice or Buy Twice 2. If its not a "HELL YES" then its a "No" 3. Declutter before Organization 4. If you don't use it, you lose it 5. Wishlist and Wait 6. A place for everything 7. Don't Buy a Problem 8. Have a "Why" before you Buy 9. The "Spark Joy" Rule 10. If you can't buy it with cash, you can't afford it
I recently saw a post about decluttering that said, "if it had poop on it, would you throw it out or take the time to wash it off?" Best tip I've ever seen.
I’ve heard this one before and was instantly reminded of when someone puked on my heels at a party and I had them sitting in a bag to clean them but never got to it and wound up just having to toss them. They were $40 (which to me was a lot of money, I bought them in hs for homecoming and I distinctly remember being upset bc I didn’t even rly like them and felt bad that my grandma had to spend that much money on shoes I didn’t even really like, lol). So I’ve definitely lived this advice before, really drives the point home 😂
@@mckenzielangendorf1437 a counter story: one of my bestfriends got suddenly and violently ill on a night out in nyc. She puked all over my favorite platform heels as I held her up and tried to help her walk. I did wash them off and wore them for many more years until they finally fell apart lol.
I had a pair of boots that were really worn out and no good, but I couldn't bring myself to throw them away until my cat peed on them. It was easy after that. She was just helping me out. Lol
People may or may not agree with this. I used to work in high-end retail where my employee discount still wasn't good enough... I would try on whatever I wanted, Then if I saw it on ebay months later and it was affordable for me I could reconsider getting it and know what size fit. One benefit of trying on everything you're interested in helps you know what actually looks good and what doesn't so you can stop daydreaming about an item and take it off your list of things. There have been plenty of times where I was so in love with something and then I tried it on and it did not work for me at all and I was so glad that I didn't waste time or money on it.
I had a similar experience working in a shoe store. I'd fall in love with the look of boots that just didn't work for my feet or ankles or calves. But if they did work, and my size was still there when they went to clearance and I still loved them, I knew it was meant to be!
@@JM-rb3wy not only do I completely agree, I have done this for years! And I buy all my clothes on ebay (except underwear🥰). To me it’s a really good way to stay out of the fast fashion trap (which is rampant in retail now) and a great way to reuse clothing so it won’t end up in a landfill somewhere. I know what brands i like and what size I wear in them, so I keep an eye out. Love it.♥️♥️
Your channel has literally changed my life. This February, I came to terms with the fact that I was not only a shopping addict, but a full blown hoarder. I have worked tirelessly since then selling, rehoming, and donating to my local shelter. (And even throwing things away because honestly a lot of it was literal trash.) I just bought a house and I'll be starting fresh in a new space with only things that I love and need, and it truly feels like I'm walking on air. Never again will I allow "stuff" to control me. I own it, it doesn't own me. Thank you for your vids :)
Number 9 reminds me of the William Morris quote: "Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful." I like this philosophy because some sentimental or decor items are not necessarily useful, but they are special and beautiful to me. And that means they are worth having. 💕
A rule I lived by this week was Before you buy, use what you have. I needed a notebook for a project, but went through my stationery basket and found a new, pretty good one. My eco bag broke. Instead of buying a cute one I saw in a shop, I looked in my gift pile (fun, small gifts I keep on hand) and found one. And now, I think I want a sleek, small knapsack with a water bottle holder. I might buy one, but for now, I’m using a knapsack that for some reason I never used. So far, it’s working well. Even though there’s no dedicated bottle pocket.
I've been living by this for a while now, especially when it comes to notebooks, stationery, and bags. I haven't stuck to it perfectly, but what has helped me the most is keeping in mind that I have an entire closet full of notebooks, journals, planners, and bags. I also have drawers and boxes full of pens, markers, highlighters, sticky notes, tapes, stickers...oh, and a whole shelf in my notebook closet is dedicated to scrapbook paper! And there are more stashes in another room in my house! So, I *literally do not need* any more stationery items or handbags. Anytime I'm out shopping, I try to picture all the things I already have or at least tell myself "I already have this at home!" It works about 85% of the time, so I call it a win!
I think it also depends what you are buying. My mom bought me a cheap t-shirt for what amounts to a little more than a dollar, closer to about one euro when I was a teenager. I wore that t-shirt regularly (think about 2 times a week regular) for about 8 years before it tore badly enough that I can't wear it as a t-shirt (I plan to turn it into a tank 'cause I love it). You should judge the quality of what you're buying rather than judge by the cost.
I'm a firm believer in functionalism. Everything in my life should serve a function of some sort. That way people have room to be themselves and identify their needs without being too restrictive.
I still have my wedding dress 😁 I do not wear it, but I like to look at it from time to time, it arises sweet memories when I was ten years younger and ten kilos slimmer 😂 Is it still functional to keep it? No, it is not, but it is still there and it is priceless for me
I have this - to a point. Knickknacks are OK. They're not meant to be anything but ornamental (though, most of mine were gifts or a souvinier). But I do not buy things I don't intend to use. And I'm far more likely to buy something ugly that's more useful to me than the pretty option (this comment brought to you by my vacuum in the living rokm).
I think that at times the urge to shop comes from a general disatisfaction with yourself or with your life. Going shopping was a quick pick-me -up for me but it usually only lasted till I got home and realised I didn't need what I bought and could have saved the money. I've slowly learnt that I actually get more of a buzz being out in nature so I'm now more likely to head for a forest or park etc than to the noisy shops. Even if you're living inner-city you can go for a walk and take time to notice leaves on trees, the sun behind clouds... I come home feeling refreshed rather than exhausted :-)
I think it also really helps in reducing waste and forced labor. Fast fashion, hauls, and consumerism directly affects humans in the Congo, Palestine, and Kenya. The more intentionality we bring into life, the more intention we give to others too! Love it.
I always have Vivienne Westwoods "Buy Less, Choose Well, Make it Last" in my head whenever I find myself wanting anything. It definitely helps control any impulse I have for things that I may not necessarily need, but also, which I might not want for very long! I can't have clutter in my closet or really anywhere in my house because it really distracts me from my work (i'm a poet), and it just helps me a lot to know what i truly WILL wear, and will love for a long time. So happy you have a membership level for your channel now. Hope you get lots!!!!
Some of my friends cannot believe my cheap self will buy $70-90 ThirdLove bras...but if I bought $20 Target bras I would not be comfortable or look as good in my (mostly thrifted) wardrobe! Sometimes better quality is so worth the price.
For sure! Also, this might just be bc I’ve pretty much always had big boobs so cheap bras were never an option for me, but I literally didn’t even realize that people spent less than at LEAST $40 on bras until fairly recently. I remember seeing reviews for pepper bras (which is a brand that makes rly well-fitting bras for small boobs/cup sizes) and the only complaint was that they were expensive (I think maybe ~$50), and I was literally boggled, lol. I will always spend money on good bras, there’s literally no point otherwise
I mean, i hear you but the expensive bras are being produced relatively cheaply too. I doubt they are worth anywhere close to 70 dollars, but yeah I get the „cheap bras don’t work“ thing. Same here 😅
Those friends probably have normal or small sized boobs, lol. I buy third love too, very comfortable, but I can’t find my size in store or cheaper if I tried, lol.
I remember coming across a saying that was attributed to a Rockefeller. "Buy the best you can afford and use it up". That always stuck with me, even if I don't always follow it.
The “HELL YES” and “spark joy” are ones I’ve been leaning more and more into. With clothes especially. I’m someone who spent their childhood into mid-twenties overweight and unhappy and obsessive about it. I hated how I looked. Once I lost weight I suddenly liked how I looked in clothes so I started buying any and everything. Over the last few years I’ve realized that just because it fits me, doesn’t mean I need to buy it. Now I only buy clothes that spark joy and it has made all the difference.
Love all of these! I need to think before I buy. I've definitely learned my lesson that if you buy a less expensive substitute for what you really want, you never really enjoy it. Just took a huge carload of donations to charity. Applied the "hell yes" test, which was so rewarding!
Absolutely!!! Even if it’s expensive I only buy what I really want and guess what I never regret it! If I have to, I save and even wait but that itch gets scratched and I feel satisfied
I hear my late father's voice in my ear every time I think of buying something -"If you can't afford it, you can't have it " .Wise words I've always lived by even through tough times. Sandi UK
My rule: if I didn’t already know I needed it when I walked into the store, I can’t buy it. Once I get home, I can sort out if I need it but consistently I won’t even remember it.
I’ve used the “if it’s not a heck yes” rule a lot while clothing shopping. Also, if I have about 2-3 clothing items in my hands, make myself put one back on the rack before going to a check out. I’ll be forced to put back an item that I feel “meh” about.
I keep hobbies down to the 3 most important. It's easy to buy and accumulate stuff for hobbies you might want to do. Anything after the top 3 gets donated for library crafts, the community center, or thrift shop.
The buy nice or buy twice is a great rule. I think it works best for items that you know you like or use frequently. If it's an item for a new hobby though, I like to buy the most affordable option first just to see if the habit or hobby sticks. Then when the behavioral change I'm trying to make is more permanent, then I start looking at more high end models/brands.
Ooh yes, that’s what I did for fountain pens. I bought an affordable one first, one that I wouldn’t be afraid to damage or lose, plus one bottle of ink. When I became regular in writing in my journal with the fountain pen, that’s when I bought more pens and ink colours.
I love "if it's not a hell yes, then it's a no". I have so many things on my wishlist and they sit there for a while before I make a purchase, but actually trying things on and thinking about how it makes you feel wearing it can help with deciding if it's a hell yes. I also learned recently that instead of shopping for your fantasy future self, you reflect on the past season and what you felt you actually needed, what it was that you didn't have that you wished you did.
I love to watch your video to stop myself from buying things on an impulse and remind myself to save money. Your logic resonates with me, so I keep coming back :) Thank you for making these videos.
I like it too. However, I have to watch myself because I have been known to use it as an excuse in the moment: "Oh, I'll get this now, and when I get home I'll go thru and pick something to get rid of." But by the time I get home, I'm too tired and/or I've forgotten my intentions. I do eventually declutter, but it never goes according to my plans.
@@mrandisg I ask myself when I'm deciding to buy, which of my current things am I willing to get rid of. This often makes me realize I don't need the new thing as I like everything I already have.
The one thing about clutter is that it stands in your way to do the things you want or need to do. You can't cook with stuff all over your kitchen counters, so you spend time and energy on cleaning before you can cook. In the end you just look at the mess and order take-out instead, adding to the problem. This is why decluttering and actually thinking about why you need the item or if you use it often enough for it to be worth it is so important. Clutter is mentally exhausting even if we don't think about it. Take one drawer at a time, one shelf at a time, it becomes less overwhealming that way.
Hey Christina, I know you've mentioned in previous videos that you don't like wearing gold jewelry against your skin because you feel it blends in too much but I just gotta say how you styled your outfit in this video with the multiple gold necklaces looks so good on you, very chic and I love the color combo!
I'm shooting for minimal-ish as well. I have decluttered easily 80% of what I once owned, and like having empty spaces, but I also like having nice things around me and my rooms to feel cozy instead of bare. I'm a new empty nester and for the first time in my life have a place to myself. I am enjoying clearing out all of the stuff I have been waiting to let go of. My goal is to have a place that I could easily pack up in a weekend if I were to move and I am very close to getting there. =)
Asking myself before buying anything “do I need it or I just want it?” or “will I have a place to put the new thing I buy?” was a gamechanger buying less clutter and keeping my apartment organized.
when I buy every day shoes I buy very good quality. If I buy cheap they lose too much support then my knees start hurting. I buy running shoes from a locally owned running store. The shoes last me almost a year. Spending about $150 for a year free from hip and knee pain is priceless. I also had bad bursitis in my hips that required injections and a lot of physical therapy. Then I read something and discovered a bad mattress and side sleeping can cause the problem. So I bought a good bed and the problem went away! spending $1200 on a bed saved thousands in medical bills
After I decluttered all the synthetics and everything that didn't have a flattering fit, *POOF* I was a minimalist. Buying secondhand pretty much follows all your rules and you can really determine the quality of a piece and its true size.
I was an overbuyer in my teens and early adult years, then I went abroad for 6 months in college and I had to live off on a very small budget in a more expensive country. That made me realize I don't need the newest thing on the market. I also can't call myself a minimalist, however, I have regular decluttering sessions every month. One month I would declutter my clothes, the other month my desk area, etc. I agree with especially the HELL, YES rule. I don't buy any article that I have a sliver of doubt about. This minimalism thing is usually discussed in terms of clothing but in my experience, books and technology are the ones that have the potential to make me go broke. I have an excel list that has all the books in my bookcase, because I realized a couple of years ago that I forgot the books I bought and didn't read yet. Now, I check my list to see if I have the book before buying. Also keeping the statistics of the books I read and haven't read yet helps me keep my book buying to minimum. Technology is something I spend a lot of money on, because it is expensive. However, I check before buying an expensive gadget if I can afford it that month, and I prefer to buy quality brands that has the hardware that will last me years. My previous phone, I used for 5 years. My laptop, 8 years. Then I sell the old stuff online and get rid of them while earning some money.
All great 👍 tips! I try to be aware of the following in order to be more intentional: - My future self: Imagine how I will like or use the item in the future. Will it serve me in different areas or my life? Will I be annoyed by it or forget about it? Do I have something similar already? - What is the cost (beyond financial cost) of the item? Do I have the space at home or will I have to make space? Will this bring peace or annoyance in the future? I try to not get swayed by the merchandising or marketing of item and instead, how it fits in my life (like imaging how my life would be when house hunting and look beyond the home staging). - What is the opportunity cost? Less money for other things? More time, space, and/or money to maintain the item?
Instead of minimalism, I leaned into a curated kind of life where only the things I love are what I keep. And it works. It kinda borderline minimalism removing the suppression part. Example: I saw a cute bag. If I really like it so much, I buy it. Then, look at my other bags that I think doesnt make me feel wanting anymore and I replace that with the new cute bag. Either, put the bag on sale, gift to someone or donate. In the end, I get all things cute and fun for myself. Fulfilled of what my items look. Have practiced making smart choices as the buying process was tedious (lots of thinking if its already the best I can get and my unwated items thinking, if they really is worth it to be replaced) Key is not to be attached with things. Not be too sentimental. Challenge is there's always cute items they sell in the market (but again since the buying part of your items needs a lot of consideration, overtime, you'll be practiced to argue whenever you see cute stuff, that what you have already is the cutest) Urrrgggh. Buy what you love, thats the key!! Delay if needed. Or buy with option for returns in case after using it a bit of time you realize you dont like them. Curate. Dont keep what you dont love. You can apply this to people as well 😂
I absolutely love the term minimal-ish. I subscribe to the mindset and the way I try to simplify. I think it helps me attempt to find contentment. Also this video came just in time. Patagonia, Everlane, and Reformation all have 50% sales right now which is tempting even though I don't need anything.
Minimal-ish is balanced in my opinion. I love to feel a sense of control over my belongings. But I also feel like so many times, having stuff in the back of my closet works out well in the long run. The "rule" of getting rid of everything you have not worn in a year sounds pretty good to me but in reality? Some years I might travel to a cold climate and need all those heavy sweaters and snow boots. Some years I may drag out the ankle length velvet gown for a Halloween costume. I have a reputation among my friends for being practical and minimalist but I'm definitely just "minimal-ish"!
I have adhd, so practicing with delaying gratification is always difficult for more, but so good for my mental health when I get better at it! Thank you for the great tips! It also helps me to replace the impulse buy with something else that gives me gratification, like talking to a friend, listening to music I love or playing a silly game that is easy to win :).
This summer I decided to declutter my summer shirts, my rules were: I would wear everything at least once before repeat wearing, anything that l took out and didn’t wear for whatever reason, ie: didn’t fit, needed repair, no longer was my style, uncomfortable etc… went straight to the donate bin (or trash). I got rid of a lot and feel so much better. I realized I was hanging on to items because I thought I should like it or I paid good money for it or I’ll wear it in a pinch….it’s so freeing to have that stuff gone!
I wish I understood the principle of buying the highest quality I could afford when I was first purchasing furniture. I now have a bunch of inexpensive furniture that not only looks cheap, but is substandard quality.
Im 37 years and im glad im already living by all the 10 rules that you mentioned in this video. My dad adviced me the first rule to buy one quality product than 10 cheap products.
#3 declutter before organizing. I was telling my wife for the past 12 years that she needs to declutter her boxes and boxes and boxes of stuff. She insisted that the solution was to instead buy more storage first, which would have meant just buying more crap to store her crap on/in. We recently separated and she is finally in the process of decluttering all of her crap….. aka moving out 😂
Used the buy nice or buy twice concept this past month when getting a new bath mat. I splurged and got an Anthropologie bath mat, hoping it would let because I invested. However when I received it, it was extremely damaged. I returned it in store, and the associates told me there was honestly a good chance I’d receive another damaged one. So I saved my money and stress and bought one at target for 1/4 the orice
Great video, Christina! I’m going to declutter more right now. 😊 The thing I do is have a separate bank account labeled “your name” or “Shopping/Gifts” and out of every paycheque put in an amount, 50 bucks, 100 bucks…whatever, and when you accumulate enough you can buy something like a Lily Silk blouse that you always wanted. Anyways, it works for me. Thanks for all the tips! 😊
Wow! I've been like this probably the last 15 years, and no video has to this level of preciseness honed in on this exact mindset. x) I was gonna comment "especially this...", but each point you bring up resonates with me. Buying nice instead of cheap, buying less by wishlisting and letting the time pass instead of buying straight away, being intentional with each space and where things go, I (sometimes to my detriment) shy away from "deals" and sales since I decided a long time ago they should never be the sole reason to purchase something. I've also never bought anything in parts or taken a loan to buy somthing (except my house and my cell phone). Despite this it has happened that I regret a purchase and that sucks, but it definitely keeps it to a minimum. :)
Similar to your wish list, I will put items I want in the (online) cart but then I will leave it. If I’m still thinking about the thing a week later, I will go back and reconsider it. And sometimes the company will email you a coupon to try to get you to come back and check out. So you’ve got to be strong enough to ignore that push until you are ready to buy.
As always, your insights are brilliant! I would just add the idea of making sure I'm not buying something for my "fantasy self". This concept has helped me to keep focused & grounded ,,, and out of trouble.
I've been decluttering for years - there's always more! I found a game changer for me was when we needed to clear out our loft space to have work done. There was so much up there which was water damaged and that wasn't worth the effort of saving. In the end I discovered I only wanted a few keepsakes and the Christmas decorations (heavily pared back!) I bought some decent storage containers (a keep sake box for each of us, and x3 for Christmas decorations) which stack nicely. The items were lovingly cleaned up and now live within the house, are easily accessible and the loft is completely empty! My point is, starting with an area which isn't as meaningful to you can help build those decluttering muscles. After all, we often chuck stuff we're not too bothered about up in unseen areas.
I used to figure out how long I had to work to pay for an item. Was it worth a days pay? A week? Then I’d add in cost per wear which should always be considered.
I love your videos and it makes me laugh because my style is the EXACT opposite where I love flowy, frilly, earthy, soft but your advice is so universal and easy to apply to any style it helps me so much!
I feel like minimalism is great up until the point when it actually makes your life more complicated instead of simplifying it. Like, let's say there's a task you need to do regularly but you won't buy the tool that's perfect for doing it quickly and efficiently, because that would mean owning one more object and you already have something you use for other things that could do the task. Sure. Except when this something does it badly and takes a lot more time. Then not getting the better tool defies the purpose of getting a simpler more streamlined life. Best to get that object that makes your life easier then, even if it means getting something with a somewhat overlapping functionality with something you already have.
I’ve really gone through some downsizing (literally I lost 90 pds due to a health issue). Had to replace my wardrobe. Now I only buy quality, no fast fashion and something that can be used through multiple seasons with no or minimal alterations. I get old favourites altered, rather than donating, selling or trashing. I also search wide and low for deals on a specific item and don’t buy if it’s not on sale or discounted. I think about it for awhile before buying. It has to fit into my wardrobe somehow and be able to be used with multiple other looks. Makeup is the same. I never buy viral products and always wait at least 30 days until buying, after some real reviews come in and the viral has died. I’m also mindful of landfills and try to pass on or sell unwanted items. I find I not only save $ now, I have a cohesive wardrobe without a lot of multiples or low quality items. Dressing is easier and much less frustrating.
I don't buy things that need tailoring/dry cleaning because knowing myself I will never get around to take the item to the tailor/dry cleaner... with a very few exceptions like really fancy dresses for special events
#10. #10. #10. Credit card debt becomes financial enslavement for too many people. If you don't have the cash, wait until you do. This whole video is a great compilation of things I've learned the hard way(s) over the years that unfortunately is not taught in school or college. Thanks for posting this Christina!
I just wanted to say a big thank you for this video! It was so lovely to see the trident on your neck💙💛. There are so many great rules and advice in here - I'm really grateful to you for sharing it!
I like keeping things that I actually wear. Are they the Basics? No, they're clothing items I love and that I bought precisely thinking of having them around for a long time.
If you have to finance it you can’t afford it - yes! I know Dave also applies this to buying a car. Because why pay interest on a chronically depreciating asset
The habit of keeping a wishlist has made it so much easier for me to be more mindful and international about making new purchases. As the initial attraction passes, I often start to realise that many of the items on my list just don't work for me.
If it’s a “Hell yes!” reasonably priced piece of basic clothing, I buy it in two colours. If the cut and fit and comfort are right then I know I’ll wear it often so I may as well have two good things. I’ve done it with jeans, trousers, T-shirts and knitwear in plain, neutral colours. That way you feel good and so you aren’t constantly looking for something new because you enjoy what you have.
I have issues with impulse spending and some of these sentences (specially the last one) are so meaningful and will help me out stop the bad decisions on that front...
I decluttered a lot during the Covid-stay-at-home period and used the money I earned by selling my 2nd hand stuff to buy my first road bike. A really cool thing, because my budget for the price of the bike depended on how much I was able to earn by selling other stuff!
I feel thankful that in my country most people have the habit of using debit cards and very few people use credit cards and that too only to get a few big things maybe once or twice a year. Although banks are pushing hard for credit cards, people here do not like to be in debt esp middle class households.
@@doramar8776 India. Infact in most south asian countries people like to use debit card or now Google pay type online apps to make payments and lots of older people still prefer to deal in cash or cheque for bigger payments to save themselves from scams.
This is so great!! I love that you really promote embracing what serves you from minimalism and not making it your entire being because I feel like our society is so hung up on the idea that if you like one thing, it has to fully engulf your life!! We’re not allowed to be multi faceted anymore!! Also, what style Levi’s are you wearing with the black shirt at around 3:30?
Lots of great info here! One of the things I do to help with impulse shopping is I’ll open an Instagram ad in an external browser. Usually I’ll forget about the item, or if I really want it then I have to go look for it in a browser tab. One thing I do feel is useful for large item purchases is 12 months interest free or something along those lines. Of course doing research first, but sometimes it takes a long time to save money for a big purchase. I feel like that can be really helpful if used carefully.
I agree on lots of your points: The wishlist the "buy the best you can afford, not the cheapest or most expensive" the "it's either a "*ell yes" or a "no" not buying a problem I knew most of them, but it's nice to be reminded and integrate it again
Thanks! I enjoy this more sustainable route to minimalist-ish. One of your points that really resonated with me was the use of wish lists. I have wish lists for any number of things that interest/intrigue me so I pop 'em on the relevant list and wait and wait. During the wait, I question myself as to the "why" and what role it would serve, I check to see what like it I already have and more often than not, I end up deleting it! The "hunt" is fun, "bagging" something less so. I also avoid credit like the plague.
I have developed quite a specific style, so whatever I buy has to fit into that style. Also, I must be able to ride my bycicle in it 🙂 On the other hand, I still have clothes and shoes that have been with me for many years. They key for decluttering is to not just look at things but actually put them on. Then ask yourself: "If I was trying this in a shop today, would I buy it again?" If you're still unsure, wear the item for a day. Maybe you remember that it's kind of uncomfortable and that's why you never wear it - or you might end up saying "This is actually great, I will wear it more often again."
100% yes to everything! I've just tried a "spark joy" on my 5 yo daughter, and it works so pure! She hates to get rid of things. So I turned out full 4 baskets of toys on the floor, and I said to pick up only those toys she likes now and wants to play with now, and she barely picked up a third of ONE basket. Good luck! Glory to Ukraine!
i try to consume up an item first before i keep buying them. Just the daily stuff like food, toiletry etc. We tend to over stock things and unless i really know i use that brand, i may keep an extra stock. But it gives me reason to leave the house but also just get what i need and leave when i go grocery shopping.
I like to add a "wishlist & wait" stage to decluttering, to ensure I'm being mindful at every stage of the process. Sometimes this is more literal: I put things I want to declutter aside, & leave them, until I'm ready to sell/donate them, then go through them & make doubly sure I am happy to part with them. Other times it just means giving them one last use, to ensure I've got all the use out of them I can/want to. - Clothes I make sure to try on again. This doesn't always involve much literal "waiting", since it's pretty easy to see when something no longer fits or suits. However, to ensure I truly give every piece the thought it deserves, I try to only put on a few pieces at a time, in order to avoid the "ugh, not more things to try on" feeling that can happen if I'm getting rid of several things at once. I also try to keep them on for longer than a few minutes (unless they truly don't fit/suit) to make sure I'm not just giving them a surface level assessment. - Books, DVDs, etc, I make sure to re-read/watch. There have been several times I have been planning to pass something on only to rediscover my love for it (& other times I've decided to re-read/watch something I thought I'd keep forever only to find it no longer sparks joy the way it once did). More often than not, I do still end up getting rid of the things I put aside, but making doubly, triply sure, means I don't end up with regrets/plagued by what-ifs. I also sometimes discover that something I put aside because I no longer needed/wanted it for its original purpose, can be used for a different purpose that I have been thinking about buying something new for. Having the seperation of putting it aside, rather than having it stored with a bunch of similar items that I do still use in the original way, can make it easier to make that leap to an alternate use.
if you cant pay right then, dont buy; buy nice always; if you know 'hell yes' then it will be a nice buy; declutter if you dont use for more than 1 year; repurpose material; learnt how to make quilts from old dresses, they are not great, but not bad either. as always Christina rocks
The wishlist is also a great way to take advantage of deals. If I know I really want something but don’t need to buy it right away, I can set aside some budget for that purchase and then wait until the items goes on sale and then I can confidently purchase it when I see it
I had a new camera on my Wishlist for a few months after a lot of research. I bought it over the weekend and saved $800 and got a free battery. Wishlist waiting pays off long term too
I adopted this rule a few months ago and it changes everything for the better whether you are thinking about a purchase or deciding on decluttering something.
Buy nice or buy twice has been so valuable to me over the past year. So worth spending more and expect it to last me years or a lifetime, than having to buy the same product multiple times
Retailer wish lists are the best thing ever - I often find myself deleting most of it once I've waited a week or two and am in a more rational mindset. "that's not going to work through a Canadian winter - delete; that colour never looked good on you before, it's not going to now; you have the exact opposite body shape to that model - it simply ain't gonna be flattering" etc. Unfortunately I suspect retailers are wise to this as I've had two different shops all of a sudden stop offering a favourites option this summer. Too bad for them - without a favourites function I'm even more inclined to forget about that impulse urge.
For topic 6 have you ever heard of 5S? It's a manufacturing term that comes from Toyota but applying it to life with a partner/family has helped so much for everything in it's place. I feel like it blends with minimalism so well. Lean manufacturing in general is just a great mindset lol
Limiting my exposure to shops has greatly helped reduce my wanting of things. If I don’t know it exists it is VERY hard to want to buy it! I also have sinking funds for spending because if I allocate a certain amount in a budget I spend that amount.
I follow most of these and they have definitely made me more intentional with my purchases and what i bring into my space, I too try to follow principles of minimalism while not fully being a minimalist yet...I agree with you, it has made me very intentional about a lot of things in life✨
Hi Christina: thanks so much for actual actionable content as opposed to word salad blah blah blah! I really appreciate your efforts, integrity and I actually use MOST of if not all of these things. I do pay with cc for most things to get cash back but pay off in entirety at end of month. Thus video added a new phrase for me. Buy nice or buy twice!!!
I'm a maximalist and I still vibe with all of those! I want A LOT of stuff I love, not a truckload of crap that drags my mood down with regret every time I look at it or use it. Collecting stuff just because it kinda fits your needs/esthetics will always bring down the overall quality of your collection, because the flaws will jump at you every time. Curation is just as important if not even more than acquisition.
1. Buy Nice or Buy Twice
2. If its not a "HELL YES" then its a "No"
3. Declutter before Organization
4. If you don't use it, you lose it
5. Wishlist and Wait
6. A place for everything
7. Don't Buy a Problem
8. Have a "Why" before you Buy
9. The "Spark Joy" Rule
10. If you can't buy it with cash, you can't afford it
Thanks
ILY ❤
🙏
This is PERFECT!! I am an "Over Shopper" and this is ideal to declutter and stop buying things that are not right. Thank you!
Love this, and I practice it.
I recently saw a post about decluttering that said, "if it had poop on it, would you throw it out or take the time to wash it off?"
Best tip I've ever seen.
LMAO this is for real 💩
I’ve heard this one before and was instantly reminded of when someone puked on my heels at a party and I had them sitting in a bag to clean them but never got to it and wound up just having to toss them. They were $40 (which to me was a lot of money, I bought them in hs for homecoming and I distinctly remember being upset bc I didn’t even rly like them and felt bad that my grandma had to spend that much money on shoes I didn’t even really like, lol). So I’ve definitely lived this advice before, really drives the point home 😂
@@mckenzielangendorf1437 a counter story: one of my bestfriends got suddenly and violently ill on a night out in nyc. She puked all over my favorite platform heels as I held her up and tried to help her walk. I did wash them off and wore them for many more years until they finally fell apart lol.
That's a great tip!
I had a pair of boots that were really worn out and no good, but I couldn't bring myself to throw them away until my cat peed on them. It was easy after that. She was just helping me out. Lol
People may or may not agree with this. I used to work in high-end retail where my employee discount still wasn't good enough... I would try on whatever I wanted, Then if I saw it on ebay months later and it was affordable for me I could reconsider getting it and know what size fit. One benefit of trying on everything you're interested in helps you know what actually looks good and what doesn't so you can stop daydreaming about an item and take it off your list of things. There have been plenty of times where I was so in love with something and then I tried it on and it did not work for me at all and I was so glad that I didn't waste time or money on it.
I had a similar experience working in a shoe store. I'd fall in love with the look of boots that just didn't work for my feet or ankles or calves. But if they did work, and my size was still there when they went to clearance and I still loved them, I knew it was meant to be!
This is a great tip 👀
This is BRILLIANT
@@JM-rb3wy not only do I completely agree, I have done this for years! And I buy all my clothes on ebay (except underwear🥰). To me it’s a really good way to stay out of the fast fashion trap (which is rampant in retail now) and a great way to reuse clothing so it won’t end up in a landfill somewhere. I know what brands i like and what size I wear in them, so I keep an eye out. Love it.♥️♥️
I noticed that, it happens a lot, I obsess over certain things and when I try it on, it doesn't work and I move on.
What is really messing with me is that I noticed that the more expensive clothing I buy recently is often as cheaply made as any H&M stuff I buy.
Yep!
Expensive doesn’t = quality. Look for quality
sometimes it is better to look for vintage. things from a time where the quality was better.
Yes stuff is not made to last now . We are in such a throw away society. You really have to shop around to find good quality items .
Complete agree, analyze before you buy. Upscale resell shops are awesome. A lot of items are practically new.
Your channel has literally changed my life. This February, I came to terms with the fact that I was not only a shopping addict, but a full blown hoarder. I have worked tirelessly since then selling, rehoming, and donating to my local shelter. (And even throwing things away because honestly a lot of it was literal trash.) I just bought a house and I'll be starting fresh in a new space with only things that I love and need, and it truly feels like I'm walking on air. Never again will I allow "stuff" to control me. I own it, it doesn't own me. Thank you for your vids :)
Number 9 reminds me of the William Morris quote: "Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful." I like this philosophy because some sentimental or decor items are not necessarily useful, but they are special and beautiful to me. And that means they are worth having. 💕
A rule I lived by this week was Before you buy, use what you have. I needed a notebook for a project, but went through my stationery basket and found a new, pretty good one. My eco bag broke. Instead of buying a cute one I saw in a shop, I looked in my gift pile (fun, small gifts I keep on hand) and found one. And now, I think I want a sleek, small knapsack with a water bottle holder. I might buy one, but for now, I’m using a knapsack that for some reason I never used. So far, it’s working well. Even though there’s no dedicated bottle pocket.
I've been living by this for a while now, especially when it comes to notebooks, stationery, and bags. I haven't stuck to it perfectly, but what has helped me the most is keeping in mind that I have an entire closet full of notebooks, journals, planners, and bags. I also have drawers and boxes full of pens, markers, highlighters, sticky notes, tapes, stickers...oh, and a whole shelf in my notebook closet is dedicated to scrapbook paper! And there are more stashes in another room in my house! So, I *literally do not need* any more stationery items or handbags. Anytime I'm out shopping, I try to picture all the things I already have or at least tell myself "I already have this at home!" It works about 85% of the time, so I call it a win!
There's that old saying, "Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without." I love that and try to do it!
@@carnation_cat I love that!
I think it also depends what you are buying. My mom bought me a cheap t-shirt for what amounts to a little more than a dollar, closer to about one euro when I was a teenager. I wore that t-shirt regularly (think about 2 times a week regular) for about 8 years before it tore badly enough that I can't wear it as a t-shirt (I plan to turn it into a tank 'cause I love it). You should judge the quality of what you're buying rather than judge by the cost.
I think bringing in the ‘hell yea’ has just as much value. You’re right… we can absolutely love something that didn’t cost a lot.
This, all the way. I have some 'cheap' clothing that has lasted me yeaaarrrsss and still going strong.
I'm a firm believer in functionalism. Everything in my life should serve a function of some sort. That way people have room to be themselves and identify their needs without being too restrictive.
Yes to this!!
I still have my wedding dress 😁 I do not wear it, but I like to look at it from time to time, it arises sweet memories when I was ten years younger and ten kilos slimmer 😂 Is it still functional to keep it? No, it is not, but it is still there and it is priceless for me
@@olga.methodologistI kept mine too!
@@olga.methodologist You enjoying looking at it serves a function. It's sentimental to you.
I have this - to a point. Knickknacks are OK. They're not meant to be anything but ornamental (though, most of mine were gifts or a souvinier). But I do not buy things I don't intend to use. And I'm far more likely to buy something ugly that's more useful to me than the pretty option (this comment brought to you by my vacuum in the living rokm).
I love the saying if it’s not a hell yes… my partner says I’m so fussy about buying things but I don’t go to work to buy things I don’t love!
I think that at times the urge to shop comes from a general disatisfaction with yourself or with your life. Going shopping was a quick pick-me -up for me but it usually only lasted till I got home and realised I didn't need what I bought and could have saved the money. I've slowly learnt that I actually get more of a buzz being out in nature so I'm now more likely to head for a forest or park etc than to the noisy shops. Even if you're living inner-city you can go for a walk and take time to notice leaves on trees, the sun behind clouds... I come home feeling refreshed rather than exhausted :-)
Love this! I should start diverting to checking out a garden or trail before going to the store next time.
I think it also really helps in reducing waste and forced labor. Fast fashion, hauls, and consumerism directly affects humans in the Congo, Palestine, and Kenya. The more intentionality we bring into life, the more intention we give to others too! Love it.
Yes. Let us all be aware of our actions and how they impact others.
I always have Vivienne Westwoods "Buy Less, Choose Well, Make it Last" in my head whenever I find myself wanting anything. It definitely helps control any impulse I have for things that I may not necessarily need, but also, which I might not want for very long! I can't have clutter in my closet or really anywhere in my house because it really distracts me from my work (i'm a poet), and it just helps me a lot to know what i truly WILL wear, and will love for a long time. So happy you have a membership level for your channel now. Hope you get lots!!!!
Thank you so much for being here!! LOVE that quote from Vivienne! It’s such a simple but amazing reminder. And a POET?! Wow! Beautiful!!
@@Christinamychas thank you💕
Taking care of clothes etc is key!
Some of my friends cannot believe my cheap self will buy $70-90 ThirdLove bras...but if I bought $20 Target bras I would not be comfortable or look as good in my (mostly thrifted) wardrobe! Sometimes better quality is so worth the price.
For sure! Also, this might just be bc I’ve pretty much always had big boobs so cheap bras were never an option for me, but I literally didn’t even realize that people spent less than at LEAST $40 on bras until fairly recently. I remember seeing reviews for pepper bras (which is a brand that makes rly well-fitting bras for small boobs/cup sizes) and the only complaint was that they were expensive (I think maybe ~$50), and I was literally boggled, lol. I will always spend money on good bras, there’s literally no point otherwise
I mean, i hear you but the expensive bras are being produced relatively cheaply too. I doubt they are worth anywhere close to 70 dollars, but yeah I get the „cheap bras don’t work“ thing. Same here 😅
Those friends probably have normal or small sized boobs, lol. I buy third love too, very comfortable, but I can’t find my size in store or cheaper if I tried, lol.
@@Carina_Rose nah they just get a 44D with spillage instead of the like, 38J they may need. No judgment just sayin.
I have a pink and a black good quality bra, $50 each. They make me look great, I love them, and they are worth every penny.
I remember coming across a saying that was attributed to a Rockefeller. "Buy the best you can afford and use it up". That always stuck with me, even if I don't always follow it.
The “HELL YES” and “spark joy” are ones I’ve been leaning more and more into. With clothes especially. I’m someone who spent their childhood into mid-twenties overweight and unhappy and obsessive about it. I hated how I looked. Once I lost weight I suddenly liked how I looked in clothes so I started buying any and everything. Over the last few years I’ve realized that just because it fits me, doesn’t mean I need to buy it. Now I only buy clothes that spark joy and it has made all the difference.
To keep me from impulse buying on Amazon I will read the negative reviews. Works like a charm!
Too bad they don’t have a review section in the stores.
Love all of these! I need to think before I buy. I've definitely learned my lesson that if you buy a less expensive substitute for what you really want, you never really enjoy it. Just took a huge carload of donations to charity. Applied the "hell yes" test, which was so rewarding!
Love it Lisa!
Absolutely!!! Even if it’s expensive I only buy what I really want and guess what I never regret it! If I have to, I save and even wait but that itch gets scratched and I feel satisfied
I hear my late father's voice in my ear every time I think of buying something -"If you can't afford it, you can't have it " .Wise words I've always lived by even through tough times. Sandi UK
My rule: if I didn’t already know I needed it when I walked into the store, I can’t buy it. Once I get home, I can sort out if I need it but consistently I won’t even remember it.
I’ve used the “if it’s not a heck yes” rule a lot while clothing shopping. Also, if I have about 2-3 clothing items in my hands, make myself put one back on the rack before going to a check out. I’ll be forced to put back an item that I feel “meh” about.
I keep hobbies down to the 3 most important. It's easy to buy and accumulate stuff for hobbies you might want to do. Anything after the top 3 gets donated for library crafts, the community center, or thrift shop.
The buy nice or buy twice is a great rule. I think it works best for items that you know you like or use frequently. If it's an item for a new hobby though, I like to buy the most affordable option first just to see if the habit or hobby sticks. Then when the behavioral change I'm trying to make is more permanent, then I start looking at more high end models/brands.
Ooh yes, that’s what I did for fountain pens. I bought an affordable one first, one that I wouldn’t be afraid to damage or lose, plus one bottle of ink. When I became regular in writing in my journal with the fountain pen, that’s when I bought more pens and ink colours.
I love "if it's not a hell yes, then it's a no". I have so many things on my wishlist and they sit there for a while before I make a purchase, but actually trying things on and thinking about how it makes you feel wearing it can help with deciding if it's a hell yes. I also learned recently that instead of shopping for your fantasy future self, you reflect on the past season and what you felt you actually needed, what it was that you didn't have that you wished you did.
I love to watch your video to stop myself from buying things on an impulse and remind myself to save money. Your logic resonates with me, so I keep coming back :) Thank you for making these videos.
I like the One in,One out to maintain a decluttered home.
I like it too. However, I have to watch myself because I have been known to use it as an excuse in the moment: "Oh, I'll get this now, and when I get home I'll go thru and pick something to get rid of." But by the time I get home, I'm too tired and/or I've forgotten my intentions. I do eventually declutter, but it never goes according to my plans.
@@mrandisg I ask myself when I'm deciding to buy, which of my current things am I willing to get rid of. This often makes me realize I don't need the new thing as I like everything I already have.
The one thing about clutter is that it stands in your way to do the things you want or need to do. You can't cook with stuff all over your kitchen counters, so you spend time and energy on cleaning before you can cook. In the end you just look at the mess and order take-out instead, adding to the problem. This is why decluttering and actually thinking about why you need the item or if you use it often enough for it to be worth it is so important. Clutter is mentally exhausting even if we don't think about it. Take one drawer at a time, one shelf at a time, it becomes less overwhealming that way.
That’s not really clutter. You just need to do those dishes and put them away😊
Hey Christina, I know you've mentioned in previous videos that you don't like wearing gold jewelry against your skin because you feel it blends in too much but I just gotta say how you styled your outfit in this video with the multiple gold necklaces looks so good on you, very chic and I love the color combo!
I'm shooting for minimal-ish as well. I have decluttered easily 80% of what I once owned, and like having empty spaces, but I also like having nice things around me and my rooms to feel cozy instead of bare. I'm a new empty nester and for the first time in my life have a place to myself. I am enjoying clearing out all of the stuff I have been waiting to let go of. My goal is to have a place that I could easily pack up in a weekend if I were to move and I am very close to getting there. =)
that sounds lovely! it's my goal as well :)
Asking myself before buying anything “do I need it or I just want it?” or “will I have a place to put the new thing I buy?” was a gamechanger buying less clutter and keeping my apartment organized.
when I buy every day shoes I buy very good quality. If I buy cheap they lose too much support then my knees start hurting. I buy running shoes from a locally owned running store. The shoes last me almost a year. Spending about $150 for a year free from hip and knee pain is priceless. I also had bad bursitis in my hips that required injections and a lot of physical therapy. Then I read something and discovered a bad mattress and side sleeping can cause the problem. So I bought a good bed and the problem went away! spending $1200 on a bed saved thousands in medical bills
May I ask what bed brand/model you went with? I’ve been on a search for quality myself!
@@margotk5955 your best bet is to go to a running store! What works for my feet may be the wrong shoe for you
A good quote I heard one time is "Don't skimp on things that come between you and the ground." So, shoes, mattresses and tires :).
After I decluttered all the synthetics and everything that didn't have a flattering fit, *POOF* I was a minimalist. Buying secondhand pretty much follows all your rules and you can really determine the quality of a piece and its true size.
I was an overbuyer in my teens and early adult years, then I went abroad for 6 months in college and I had to live off on a very small budget in a more expensive country. That made me realize I don't need the newest thing on the market. I also can't call myself a minimalist, however, I have regular decluttering sessions every month. One month I would declutter my clothes, the other month my desk area, etc. I agree with especially the HELL, YES rule. I don't buy any article that I have a sliver of doubt about. This minimalism thing is usually discussed in terms of clothing but in my experience, books and technology are the ones that have the potential to make me go broke. I have an excel list that has all the books in my bookcase, because I realized a couple of years ago that I forgot the books I bought and didn't read yet. Now, I check my list to see if I have the book before buying. Also keeping the statistics of the books I read and haven't read yet helps me keep my book buying to minimum. Technology is something I spend a lot of money on, because it is expensive. However, I check before buying an expensive gadget if I can afford it that month, and I prefer to buy quality brands that has the hardware that will last me years. My previous phone, I used for 5 years. My laptop, 8 years. Then I sell the old stuff online and get rid of them while earning some money.
All great 👍 tips!
I try to be aware of the following in order to be more intentional:
- My future self: Imagine how I will like or use the item in the future. Will it serve me in different areas or my life? Will I be annoyed by it or forget about it? Do I have something similar already?
- What is the cost (beyond financial cost) of the item?
Do I have the space at home or will I have to make space? Will this bring peace or annoyance in the future? I try to not get swayed by the merchandising or marketing of item and instead, how it fits in my life (like imaging how my life would be when house hunting and look beyond the home staging).
- What is the opportunity cost? Less money for other things? More time, space, and/or money to maintain the item?
Instead of minimalism, I leaned into a curated kind of life where only the things I love are what I keep. And it works. It kinda borderline minimalism removing the suppression part.
Example: I saw a cute bag. If I really like it so much, I buy it. Then, look at my other bags that I think doesnt make me feel wanting anymore and I replace that with the new cute bag. Either, put the bag on sale, gift to someone or donate.
In the end, I get all things cute and fun for myself. Fulfilled of what my items look. Have practiced making smart choices as the buying process was tedious (lots of thinking if its already the best I can get and my unwated items thinking, if they really is worth it to be replaced)
Key is not to be attached with things. Not be too sentimental.
Challenge is there's always cute items they sell in the market (but again since the buying part of your items needs a lot of consideration, overtime, you'll be practiced to argue whenever you see cute stuff, that what you have already is the cutest)
Urrrgggh. Buy what you love, thats the key!! Delay if needed. Or buy with option for returns in case after using it a bit of time you realize you dont like them.
Curate. Dont keep what you dont love. You can apply this to people as well 😂
Yes! This! Being intention is more comfortable for me too. I’m never going to be a minimalist but I can be intentional
I absolutely love the term minimal-ish. I subscribe to the mindset and the way I try to simplify. I think it helps me attempt to find contentment. Also this video came just in time. Patagonia, Everlane, and Reformation all have 50% sales right now which is tempting even though I don't need anything.
Me too! It just feels more balanced!
Minimal-ish is balanced in my opinion. I love to feel a sense of control over my belongings. But I also feel like so many times, having stuff in the back of my closet works out well in the long run. The "rule" of getting rid of everything you have not worn in a year sounds pretty good to me but in reality? Some years I might travel to a cold climate and need all those heavy sweaters and snow boots. Some years I may drag out the ankle length velvet gown for a Halloween costume. I have a reputation among my friends for being practical and minimalist but I'm definitely just "minimal-ish"!
I have adhd, so practicing with delaying gratification is always difficult for more, but so good for my mental health when I get better at it! Thank you for the great tips! It also helps me to replace the impulse buy with something else that gives me gratification, like talking to a friend, listening to music I love or playing a silly game that is easy to win :).
This summer I decided to declutter my summer shirts, my rules were: I would wear everything at least once before repeat wearing, anything that l took out and didn’t wear for whatever reason, ie: didn’t fit, needed repair, no longer was my style, uncomfortable etc… went straight to the donate bin (or trash). I got rid of a lot and feel so much better. I realized I was hanging on to items because I thought I should like it or I paid good money for it or I’ll wear it in a pinch….it’s so freeing to have that stuff gone!
I wish I understood the principle of buying the highest quality I could afford when I was first purchasing furniture. I now have a bunch of inexpensive furniture that not only looks cheap, but is substandard quality.
Im 37 years and im glad im already living by all the 10 rules that you mentioned in this video.
My dad adviced me the first rule to buy one quality product than 10 cheap products.
If it’s not a hell yes, it’s a no! Saving this to my phone so I can remind myself. So simple yet so effective!
#3 declutter before organizing. I was telling my wife for the past 12 years that she needs to declutter her boxes and boxes and boxes of stuff. She insisted that the solution was to instead buy more storage first, which would have meant just buying more crap to store her crap on/in. We recently separated and she is finally in the process of decluttering all of her crap….. aka moving out 😂
Absolutely love your “fern/sage/moss” blazer! You look great in it!
Used the buy nice or buy twice concept this past month when getting a new bath mat. I splurged and got an Anthropologie bath mat, hoping it would let because I invested. However when I received it, it was extremely damaged. I returned it in store, and the associates told me there was honestly a good chance I’d receive another damaged one. So I saved my money and stress and bought one at target for 1/4 the orice
Good on them for letting you know lol
Great video, Christina! I’m going to declutter more right now. 😊 The thing I do is have a separate bank account labeled “your name” or “Shopping/Gifts” and out of every paycheque put in an amount, 50 bucks, 100 bucks…whatever, and when you accumulate enough you can buy something like a Lily Silk blouse that you always wanted. Anyways, it works for me. Thanks for all the tips! 😊
Wow! I've been like this probably the last 15 years, and no video has to this level of preciseness honed in on this exact mindset. x) I was gonna comment "especially this...", but each point you bring up resonates with me. Buying nice instead of cheap, buying less by wishlisting and letting the time pass instead of buying straight away, being intentional with each space and where things go, I (sometimes to my detriment) shy away from "deals" and sales since I decided a long time ago they should never be the sole reason to purchase something. I've also never bought anything in parts or taken a loan to buy somthing (except my house and my cell phone).
Despite this it has happened that I regret a purchase and that sucks, but it definitely keeps it to a minimum. :)
Similar to your wish list, I will put items I want in the (online) cart but then I will leave it. If I’m still thinking about the thing a week later, I will go back and reconsider it. And sometimes the company will email you a coupon to try to get you to come back and check out. So you’ve got to be strong enough to ignore that push until you are ready to buy.
As always, your insights are brilliant! I would just add the idea of making sure I'm not buying something for my "fantasy self". This concept has helped me to keep focused & grounded ,,, and out of trouble.
I've been decluttering for years - there's always more!
I found a game changer for me was when we needed to clear out our loft space to have work done. There was so much up there which was water damaged and that wasn't worth the effort of saving.
In the end I discovered I only wanted a few keepsakes and the Christmas decorations (heavily pared back!)
I bought some decent storage containers (a keep sake box for each of us, and x3 for Christmas decorations) which stack nicely. The items were lovingly cleaned up and now live within the house, are easily accessible and the loft is completely empty!
My point is, starting with an area which isn't as meaningful to you can help build those decluttering muscles. After all, we often chuck stuff we're not too bothered about up in unseen areas.
I used to figure out how long I had to work to pay for an item. Was it worth a days pay? A week? Then I’d add in cost per wear which should always be considered.
Love this idea, but I'd get overwhelmed by the math. That might either work in my favor or against me, depending on my mood and energy levels!
I love your videos and it makes me laugh because my style is the EXACT opposite where I love flowy, frilly, earthy, soft but your advice is so universal and easy to apply to any style it helps me so much!
I feel like minimalism is great up until the point when it actually makes your life more complicated instead of simplifying it. Like, let's say there's a task you need to do regularly but you won't buy the tool that's perfect for doing it quickly and efficiently, because that would mean owning one more object and you already have something you use for other things that could do the task. Sure. Except when this something does it badly and takes a lot more time. Then not getting the better tool defies the purpose of getting a simpler more streamlined life. Best to get that object that makes your life easier then, even if it means getting something with a somewhat overlapping functionality with something you already have.
I’ve really gone through some downsizing (literally I lost 90 pds due to a health issue). Had to replace my wardrobe. Now I only buy quality, no fast fashion and something that can be used through multiple seasons with no or minimal alterations. I get old favourites altered, rather than donating, selling or trashing. I also search wide and low for deals on a specific item and don’t buy if it’s not on sale or discounted. I think about it for awhile before buying. It has to fit into my wardrobe somehow and be able to be used with multiple other looks. Makeup is the same. I never buy viral products and always wait at least 30 days until buying, after some real reviews come in and the viral has died. I’m also mindful of landfills and try to pass on or sell unwanted items. I find I not only save $ now, I have a cohesive wardrobe without a lot of multiples or low quality items. Dressing is easier and much less frustrating.
I don't buy things that need tailoring/dry cleaning because knowing myself I will never get around to take the item to the tailor/dry cleaner... with a very few exceptions like really fancy dresses for special events
I once read a comment that said to treat your own wardrobe like a clothing store, and "go shopping" with your own clothes.
My problem is that everything is a hell yes! And it all sparks joy
#10. #10. #10. Credit card debt becomes financial enslavement for too many people. If you don't have the cash, wait until you do. This whole video is a great compilation of things I've learned the hard way(s) over the years that unfortunately is not taught in school or college. Thanks for posting this Christina!
Don’t buy a problem! I needed to hear this ❤
I just wanted to say a big thank you for this video! It was so lovely to see the trident on your neck💙💛. There are so many great rules and advice in here - I'm really grateful to you for sharing it!
I like keeping things that I actually wear. Are they the Basics? No, they're clothing items I love and that I bought precisely thinking of having them around for a long time.
Love this. I avoid haul vlogs, so tired of overconsumption and these tips are great.
Buy nice or buy twice - I always say buy once cry once! Love both
Thank you for your wise words. I am becoming more intentional in my spending, but still working on it!
If you have to finance it you can’t afford it - yes! I know Dave also applies this to buying a car. Because why pay interest on a chronically depreciating asset
I love the blazer that you are wearing in this video. It looks so nice on you!
The habit of keeping a wishlist has made it so much easier for me to be more mindful and international about making new purchases. As the initial attraction passes, I often start to realise that many of the items on my list just don't work for me.
If it’s a “Hell yes!” reasonably priced piece of basic clothing, I buy it in two colours. If the cut and fit and comfort are right then I know I’ll wear it often so I may as well have two good things. I’ve done it with jeans, trousers, T-shirts and knitwear in plain, neutral colours. That way you feel good and so you aren’t constantly looking for something new because you enjoy what you have.
I have issues with impulse spending and some of these sentences (specially the last one) are so meaningful and will help me out stop the bad decisions on that front...
I decluttered a lot during the Covid-stay-at-home period and used the money I earned by selling my 2nd hand stuff to buy my first road bike. A really cool thing, because my budget for the price of the bike depended on how much I was able to earn by selling other stuff!
I love your saying ... If it is not a "HELL YES" then its a no 😊 👍🏻❤❤❤
I feel thankful that in my country most people have the habit of using debit cards and very few people use credit cards and that too only to get a few big things maybe once or twice a year.
Although banks are pushing hard for credit cards, people here do not like to be in debt esp middle class households.
What country is that one?
@@doramar8776 India. Infact in most south asian countries people like to use debit card or now Google pay type online apps to make payments and lots of older people still prefer to deal in cash or cheque for bigger payments to save themselves from scams.
This is so great!! I love that you really promote embracing what serves you from minimalism and not making it your entire being because I feel like our society is so hung up on the idea that if you like one thing, it has to fully engulf your life!! We’re not allowed to be multi faceted anymore!! Also, what style Levi’s are you wearing with the black shirt at around 3:30?
Thank you Christina🙏⭐️! All of this is so helpful♥️. I’ll memorize it for future ”cravings”🤗.
Great recommendation. I cancelled my only credit card a few months ago and it has definitely made my spending habits be more intentional and critical.
All the junk I collected over the years is getting on my nerves lately, so it’s really time to implement this 😂
Lots of great info here! One of the things I do to help with impulse shopping is I’ll open an Instagram ad in an external browser. Usually I’ll forget about the item, or if I really want it then I have to go look for it in a browser tab.
One thing I do feel is useful for large item purchases is 12 months interest free or something along those lines. Of course doing research first, but sometimes it takes a long time to save money for a big purchase. I feel like that can be really helpful if used carefully.
I agree on lots of your points:
The wishlist
the "buy the best you can afford, not the cheapest or most expensive"
the "it's either a "*ell yes" or a "no"
not buying a problem
I knew most of them, but it's nice to be reminded and integrate it again
Thanks! I enjoy this more sustainable route to minimalist-ish. One of your points that really resonated with me was the use of wish lists. I have wish lists for any number of things that interest/intrigue me so I pop 'em on the relevant list and wait and wait. During the wait, I question myself as to the "why" and what role it would serve, I check to see what like it I already have and more often than not, I end up deleting it! The "hunt" is fun, "bagging" something less so. I also avoid credit like the plague.
I have developed quite a specific style, so whatever I buy has to fit into that style. Also, I must be able to ride my bycicle in it 🙂 On the other hand, I still have clothes and shoes that have been with me for many years. They key for decluttering is to not just look at things but actually put them on. Then ask yourself: "If I was trying this in a shop today, would I buy it again?" If you're still unsure, wear the item for a day. Maybe you remember that it's kind of uncomfortable and that's why you never wear it - or you might end up saying "This is actually great, I will wear it more often again."
100% yes to everything! I've just tried a "spark joy" on my 5 yo daughter, and it works so pure! She hates to get rid of things. So I turned out full 4 baskets of toys on the floor, and I said to pick up only those toys she likes now and wants to play with now, and she barely picked up a third of ONE basket. Good luck! Glory to Ukraine!
i try to consume up an item first before i keep buying them. Just the daily stuff like food, toiletry etc. We tend to over stock things and unless i really know i use that brand, i may keep an extra stock. But it gives me reason to leave the house but also just get what i need and leave when i go grocery shopping.
I like to add a "wishlist & wait" stage to decluttering, to ensure I'm being mindful at every stage of the process.
Sometimes this is more literal: I put things I want to declutter aside, & leave them, until I'm ready to sell/donate them, then go through them & make doubly sure I am happy to part with them.
Other times it just means giving them one last use, to ensure I've got all the use out of them I can/want to.
- Clothes I make sure to try on again. This doesn't always involve much literal "waiting", since it's pretty easy to see when something no longer fits or suits. However, to ensure I truly give every piece the thought it deserves, I try to only put on a few pieces at a time, in order to avoid the "ugh, not more things to try on" feeling that can happen if I'm getting rid of several things at once. I also try to keep them on for longer than a few minutes (unless they truly don't fit/suit) to make sure I'm not just giving them a surface level assessment.
- Books, DVDs, etc, I make sure to re-read/watch. There have been several times I have been planning to pass something on only to rediscover my love for it (& other times I've decided to re-read/watch something I thought I'd keep forever only to find it no longer sparks joy the way it once did).
More often than not, I do still end up getting rid of the things I put aside, but making doubly, triply sure, means I don't end up with regrets/plagued by what-ifs.
I also sometimes discover that something I put aside because I no longer needed/wanted it for its original purpose, can be used for a different purpose that I have been thinking about buying something new for. Having the seperation of putting it aside, rather than having it stored with a bunch of similar items that I do still use in the original way, can make it easier to make that leap to an alternate use.
This is such a great idea!
if you cant pay right then, dont buy; buy nice always; if you know 'hell yes' then it will be a nice buy; declutter if you dont use for more than 1 year; repurpose material; learnt how to make quilts from old dresses, they are not great, but not bad either. as always Christina rocks
The wishlist is also a great way to take advantage of deals. If I know I really want something but don’t need to buy it right away, I can set aside some budget for that purchase and then wait until the items goes on sale and then I can confidently purchase it when I see it
I had a new camera on my Wishlist for a few months after a lot of research. I bought it over the weekend and saved $800 and got a free battery. Wishlist waiting pays off long term too
Totally adopting the HELL YES rule!
I adopted this rule a few months ago and it changes everything for the better whether you are thinking about a purchase or deciding on decluttering something.
Buy nice or buy twice has been so valuable to me over the past year. So worth spending more and expect it to last me years or a lifetime, than having to buy the same product multiple times
Retailer wish lists are the best thing ever - I often find myself deleting most of it once I've waited a week or two and am in a more rational mindset. "that's not going to work through a Canadian winter - delete; that colour never looked good on you before, it's not going to now; you have the exact opposite body shape to that model - it simply ain't gonna be flattering" etc. Unfortunately I suspect retailers are wise to this as I've had two different shops all of a sudden stop offering a favourites option this summer. Too bad for them - without a favourites function I'm even more inclined to forget about that impulse urge.
For topic 6 have you ever heard of 5S?
It's a manufacturing term that comes from Toyota but applying it to life with a partner/family has helped so much for everything in it's place. I feel like it blends with minimalism so well. Lean manufacturing in general is just a great mindset lol
i love the "buy nice or buy twice"!
Christina I am always always waiting for your new videos on every Sunday♥️♥️♥️ and I will always support your channel so so much
Limiting my exposure to shops has greatly helped reduce my wanting of things. If I don’t know it exists it is VERY hard to want to buy it! I also have sinking funds for spending because if I allocate a certain amount in a budget I spend that amount.
I follow most of these and they have definitely made me more intentional with my purchases and what i bring into my space, I too try to follow principles of minimalism while not fully being a minimalist yet...I agree with you, it has made me very intentional about a lot of things in life✨
You look absolutely gorgeous in this video! Like, every single thing is ON point! Your blazer, hair, makeup, skin! E v e r y t h i n g!
That green shaggy, thrift store jacket was sooooo edgy! It looked great on you!
The Wishlist is THE BEST invention ever!
💯YES!!!
Good slogans to help remember your ideas like buy nice or buy twice, if it isn’t a hell yes then it’s a no 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Hi Christina: thanks so much for actual actionable content as opposed to word salad blah blah blah! I really appreciate your efforts, integrity and I actually use MOST of if not all of these things. I do pay with cc for most things to get cash back but pay off in entirety at end of month. Thus video added a new phrase for me. Buy nice or buy twice!!!
I'm a maximalist and I still vibe with all of those! I want A LOT of stuff I love, not a truckload of crap that drags my mood down with regret every time I look at it or use it. Collecting stuff just because it kinda fits your needs/esthetics will always bring down the overall quality of your collection, because the flaws will jump at you every time. Curation is just as important if not even more than acquisition.
Love the if it’s not a hell yes, walk away, it is as simple as that, great video