9 Reasons Buying Stuff Will Never Make You Happy

Buying new things doesn't make up happy. While a shopping haul may bring a temporary rush, the thrill wears off soon, and we feel no different than before. Our homes become filled with clutter, and yet we continue to buy more. Even if we don't have a shopping addiction, the constant pull to buy new things, fueled by our constant exposure to advertising, is something we all experience. Here are 9 reasons buying things isn't how to find lasting happiness.

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Recent videos:

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Most popular videos:

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You can read more tips in my book, The Minimalist Home.

Read hundreds of articles on decluttering and owning less on the Becoming Minimalist blog.

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#becomingminimalist #happiness

[MoonFoxASMR]

**"Everything we own takes up physical space in our home and also takes up mental space in our mind."** YES.

[vasanthanmuthusamy]

A lot of manufacturers must find you a threat but you are a blessing to many, Joshua.

[rao]

Joshua, this video of yours needs to be played in schools/colleges. I think it's better when kids are educated with these values. Good habits should start early.

[ashleyalston]

100% true. Im a recovering shopping addict and this almost made me cry with the sheer truth !

[territattan]

You know what makes me happy? A You-Tuber who gets right to the point and delivers useful information in a clear and concise manner. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!!

[ananyakarmakar]

1. They always fade after sometime
2. There's always something new that we could buy
3. Buying things always add worry / anxiety to our lives
4. Everything we own requires maintenance
5. Everything we buy costs more later on than initial purchase price
6. Others are never impressed with our purchases
7. Someone always has more than us
8. Our purchases don't bring us content/ happiness
9. Experiences always make us happier than possessions

TYIA☺️ love your channel✌️

[marlenek]

This was very inspiring. I sound like a broken record by now, but after listening to you I always feel back on track, and aware of what's more important in life.

[Swanky]

"Our discontent can be evidence in our excess". This is so fricken true!!!

[songbirdforjesus]

I am happy when I go to bed at night in a quality mattress with quality pillows sheets and comforter I am happy but I am warm and clean with things that will give me a good rest. For a long time I was poor and did not have these things so yes it does make me happy even though they will wear out I wouldn't use the word happy more grateful but I do get a smile on my face

[jenniferbtoo]

I really appreciate the clarity you bring to minimalism.

[greenkitty]

I certainly agree with the points in this video. Things can never truly make you happy entirely but I think as long as you personally get long term value out of something then I think it's ok to have. For example I still have clothes and books I've had for over 20 years and still absolutely love them.

[paulrumohr]

Hey Joshua, I appreciate your persistence in making videos that remind that buying things does not bring true happiness.

The world is pummeled with commercial advertising every minute of every day. I would love to see one day, someone posting a video every minute of every day why your next goods purchase isn't going to bring you the love and fulfilment you seek.

What this world needs is more anti-commercials!

[nataliekibble]

I agree so much with you but I’m finding it especially difficult at the moment as all the “experiences” that normally make me happy are not available - meeting family and friends, visiting places, live music, the sports that I play...

[hindasia]

I love how your videos are also minimalist: short, precise and to the point without excess information or explanation 👍

[valerierogers]

There're few items I can look back and say they've made a profound positive difference in my life. Most things are simply baggage.

[piercrab]

My husband & I walk everyday around the neighborhood to exercise. He keeps picking up stuff neighbors toss out. When confronting him, he always have excuses of how he’s going to use the item. Our garage is full, our backyard is cluttered. It’s a never ending battle & I don’t know how to make him change his attitude.

[salfic]

So true. 'Stuff' really clutters my head and messes with my mind. A simple life is so much more beautiful and honest. I would like to think I can offer people more, than what I own. How authentic can one be if all they have to offer is 'stuff'. I used to follow you with facebook - but I found that was even mental clutter I had to eliminate from my life - glad to see you are here on youtube :) Love your work.

[ntv]

Very helpful. I get sad after i buy something. Advertisements doesnt help makes you want to buy things you dont actually need.

[lindabradbeer]

So true Joshua! Especially the long term cost of an item. For me, in my late 50’s, I have to find the space to display or the note the ongoing expense to insure or clean.

[denobarroga]

Thanks Joshua. I like this format of your videos the best. It's like a friend talking to me.