Imagine your wardrobe as your personalized art collection. Each piece tells a story, playing its functional role without causing unnecessary clutter. Sounds perfect, right? This utopian idea isn’t far from reach. It’s called a Capsule Wardrobe – a minimalist and simplified way of…
Is your kitchen cluttered with complex ingredients, elaborate recipes, and surplus food? If your answer is yes, you’re not alone. Often, we find ourselves overwhelmed with the abundance of options available to us when it comes to food, and we…
In this article Introduction: My Journey Towards Embracing Generosity and Minimalism Understanding the Benefits of Generosity and Minimalism Step 1: Assessing Your Current Lifestyle and Mindset Step 2: Decluttering Your Physical Space Step 3: Letting Go of Material Possessions Step…
In this article The Art of Letting Go: Embracing Minimalism in Your Work Life Finding Balance: Prioritizing Health and Well-being in the Present The Power of Simplicity: Simplifying Work to Improve Focus and Productivity Work-Life Integration: Blurring the Lines for…
In this article The Cluttered Closet: My Journey to Minimalism Why I Decided to Simplify My Wardrobe Debunking Myths About Minimalist Fashion How Minimalism Transformed My Style Finding Joy in Less: The Psychological Impact of Minimalist Dressing The Cluttered Closet:…
In this article Introduction: My Personal Journey with Cell Phone Addiction Understanding the Impact of Excessive Cell Phone Use on Mental Health Identifying the Signs of Cell Phone Addiction: Am I Addicted? The Science Behind Cell Phone Addiction: How It…
Fall is a season of transformation. As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, our palates also yearn for a shift from the light and refreshing meals of summer to the warm and comforting dishes of autumn. It’s…
Let’s take a little trip down memory lane, shall we? When I first noticed a change in the design scene, I was working in a small graphic design agency. It was in the mid-2000s when I noticed that many of…
When I first walked into my friend’s living room in Oslo, Norway, I was taken aback by how spacious, simple and yet still warm and inviting it seemed. That was my first real experience with the Scandinavian minimalist aesthetic – a…
In the vast expanse of the art world, minimalism has always stood out as a beacon of simplicity, clarity, and intention. As we navigate through 2023, this art form is not just surviving but thriving, evolving in intriguing ways that…
In today’s fast-paced world, where excess often dominates, there’s a refreshing global movement steering us back to simplicity: modern minimalist design. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Scandinavia, this design philosophy has found its way…
In an age where digital interactions often overshadow face-to-face encounters, the term “authentic connection” has taken on profound significance. An authentic connection goes beyond mere interaction; it’s a deep, genuine bond formed between individuals, rooted in understanding, empathy, and mutual…
In a world where fitness trends come and go, and where every month seems to introduce a new piece of gym equipment or a revolutionary workout routine, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Amidst this noise, a movement is growing, one…
In today’s digital age, where information is constantly at our fingertips, many of us have unconsciously adopted a habit of skimming through texts, seeking instant gratification and quick answers. The vast ocean of online content has conditioned us to move…
When I first held a vinyl record in my hands as a teenager, I was captivated by its grooves, the artwork, and the promise of a musical journey. Vinyl records, with their rich history spanning back to the early 20th…
Introduction I’ve always believed that vinyl records are more than just objects; they’re memories encapsulated in grooves. Each record, with its unique artwork and sound, tells a story. But, like all treasured possessions, they’re delicate. A slight mishap, a careless…
Introduction Ever tried to capture a sunset in a jar? Crafting the perfect playlist feels a bit like that. It’s an attempt to bottle up emotions, memories, and atmospheres into a sequence of songs. In our vast digital universe of…
In today’s digital age, music is more accessible than ever before. With just a click, we can stream millions of songs from various genres, artists, and eras. But does this abundance of choices enhance our listening experience or overwhelm us?…
Embracing the tiny living lifestyle is a bold decision that has been gaining traction in recent years. This movement, which advocates for downsizing and simplifying one’s living conditions, comes with a host of benefits such as lower living expenses, a…
In the quest for a simpler, more meaningful life, many people are drawn to the concepts of tiny living and minimalism. Both lifestyles champion the idea of living with less and prioritizing experiences over possessions. However, while they share some…
In the world of film, the art of storytelling is not just about the script, the actors, or the director’s vision. It’s also about the subtle craft of film editing. The editor’s work often goes unnoticed by the average viewer,…
Animation is a powerful medium, capable of bringing to life complex narratives and emotions. One approach that has significantly influenced this field is minimalism, a philosophy that emphasizes simplicity and the elimination of excess. This article will delve into the…
The world of architecture is vast and diverse, encompassing a myriad of styles and movements. Yet, amidst this diversity, one philosophy stands out for its simplicity and elegance – minimalism. Minimalism in architecture is a movement that has its roots…
Today, I want to share with you a personal journey that has transformed my life. It’s a journey that began with a simple question: “How can I stay fit in a way that aligns with my minimalist lifestyle?” Like many…
Hello, dear readers. Today, I want to take you on a journey, a journey that has profoundly changed my life and reshaped my perspective on the world. It’s the journey towards sustainable living, a path that I discovered through my…
In the modern world, where consumerism often reigns supreme, there exists a countercurrent that champions simplicity and intentionality: minimalism. This philosophy, which advocates for living with less and cherishing the essentials, has found its way into various aspects of our…
The beauty of minimalism is found in its ability to convey profound truths with simplicity. The focus is often on what’s not there as much as on what is. This minimalist ethos has been embraced by several filmmakers, leading to…
Hello, dear minimalist enthusiasts! It’s me, your go-to minimalist guide. I am really stoked to share a new musing that many of you have been asking for – alternatives to coffee tables. I know how much we all value simplicity…
A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to talk with Joshua Becker at Becoming Minimalist. We talked about Christianity and minimalism. We talked about writing and speaking. We covered an array of topics. Today, I’ll share some of the…
Everybody loves soft fluffy pillows. Who doesn’t love warm cozy blankets and comforters and fine sheets? It feels so good to lay down on a soft bed and get lost in comfort. Sorry to wake you up from your dreams,…
I consider myself a follower of Christ, but something bothers me. A good portion of folks who call themselves Christians don’t follow Christ when it comes to simple living. We’ve all heard people speak of their blessings in regard to…
What does it mean to be minimalist? That’s a good question. I’d guess that many people who consider themselves minimalists would not consider me a minimalist. That’s okay. I know what being minimalist means to me. Photo by Dan Erickson…
How many times have you started an exercise program only to quit? How many gyms have you signed up for only to cancel your membership due to inactivity? You’re not alone. Millions of people get started on an exercise program…
With Thanksgiving right around the corner, many of us begin to consider the things that we’re thankful for. What are you thankful for? If we’re honest with ourselves, the people in our lives and the simple pleasures are what bring…
Finding simple happiness is easy. This free little book can help you learn how to find happiness through simple living. The Happiness of Simple Making Connections Between Happiness, Simplicity, and Productivity I invite you to read this free book. There…
Growth. Sometimes it’s easy to lose perspective. We get so caught up in self-improvement and productivity that we lose perspective of what really matters. So what does really matter? Growth. I’m not talking about growth in numbers or dollars. I’m…
Do you like Hip Diggs’ blog posts? If you do, I’m going to let you in on a little secret. It’s all about keeping things simple. Boom! The more simple you keep your writing, the easier it is to connect…
When we keep our surroundings free of clutter, we create a relaxing atmosphere. It only takes a few minutes each day. Take a moment to neaten your surroundings. A clean space creates a calm place. Photo Credit Something wonderful happens…
Sometimes life gets busy. When life gets busy we often overlook a basic essential: breathing. We go on autopilot and our breath becomes shallow. It’s better to have focused breathing: Inhale. Exhale. Repeat. Relax. Have you ever listened to the…
As we gain more influence we’re asked to do more. At first it might seem like saying yes is best. We believe that doing more will increase our influence. It’s knowing when to say yes that’s important. Sometimes it’s better to…
To keep our lives and homes in order we need to make time for each other. Communication is a big part of keeping our home life simple. If you want a happy home, don’t be too busy for those around…
When I was in college I lived in a studio apartment. It was small, but that didn’t stop me from getting exercise. There are several kinds of exercise that are compatible with living in small spaces. Photo Credit Living in…
If you’re like me and most Americans, you struggle with your diet. I’ve been doing better as I get older. I still have my weaknesses. But I stock 14 simple foods for better health in my kitchen. Do you? Photo…
Living simple includes simple exercise. One of the best forms of exercise is also one of the simplest forms. Taking a daily walk is a great way to keep moving. Walking can also open the door to more vigorous forms…
Have you ever sat in front of the TV all day? Have you ever played video games until the wee hours? Do you waste time on social media? Too much screen time is a waste of time. If you want…
I’ll be honest. This post is biased. I love music. Music has done wonders for me. It has helped me get through some of the hardest times in my life. It can do the same for you. Have you tapped…
Is your home cluttered? Do you have too much stuff? Do you want to kill your clutter? There’s a mindset behind the clutter. There’s a mindset behind ridding clutter that leads to five mindful decluttering techniques. You choose: fear or…
If you’ve lived like an average American, you’ve probably always had more than you’ve needed. I’ve purposefully tried to keep my life simple. I spent years without a car. I lived in trailers and studio apartments throughout my twenties and…
Whether it’s your journey toward living more simply, practicing better exercising habits, or working on a business venture, it can get hard. We often feel like giving up. But there are ways to reenergize. Things ebb and flow. It’s part…
As I get closer to wrapping up actively posting at Hip Diggs, I think it’s only fair that I explain why I’m quitting. It’s simple. I don’t believe in Minimalism. This isn’t to say that I’m not a proponent of…
Minimalists are usually active in self-improvement. If you weren’t trying to improve your life, you’d just let the clutter build up, spend money without a care, and eat whatever you want. Many people who seek self-improvement also seek the perfect…
I have an admission to make. I’m still holding on to way too much stuff. Sure, I call myself a moderate minimalist. I do pay attention to how much I buy. But there are a couple areas in my life…
In October, I introduced The 10 Step Challenge To Simple Living. I hope you’re taking this challenge to heart. I am. You can learn to live a more simple and happy life, but it’s not always easy. There’s a hidden…
I wrote this post over at my main site, danerickson.net, right after I sold my house and paid off all my debt. And yes, it happened overnight. I used to immediately cringe at articles with titles like, “How I Became Debt…
I’ve often found myself in a quandary concerning capitalizing minimalism. It seems like a contradiction. But that doesn’t mean that one can’t be a minimalist and an entrepreneur. Over the last two summers, my daughter, Annie ran a lemonade stand.…
I didn’t just wake up one day and decide to become a minimalist. It’s been a lifelong journey. Along the way, I’ve found several hobbies that fit the minimalist lifestyle. Minimalist hobbies are everyday hobbies. You don’t have to practice…
Recently, I had the chance to chat with Brian Gardner from No Sidebar. Today, I’ll offer a short profile of Brian and his minimalist journey. I really enjoyed chatting with Brian. I discovered that we have a few things in…
The Minimalists are living the life they preach about. I think that lends them great credibility. As one who makes a point to live simple, this review of the documentary, Minimalism, reflects my honest thoughts and opinions. Photo from minimalismfilm.com…
You’ve heard that reading makes you smarter. You’ve heard that reading improves your memory. If you’re a writer, you’ve been told that reading makes you a better writer. These things are all true. But there’s more. Photo Caption I used…
I’ve got a gift to give you. You can pass it on. It’s free. Recently, I wrote a book called, The Happiness of Simple: Making Connections Between Happiness, Simplicity & Productivity. Photo Credit The book teaches you an awesome secret. When you…
The Beatle’s once sang, “Get back. Get back. Get back to where you once belonged.” Just one question: Where is that? It seems everyone is looking for answers in the past or the future. I look for answers in presence. To…
Hip Diggs is a relatively new site. Although the site officially started in January, 2014, it wasn’t until October, 2014, that we found our new look and feel. I wasn’t going to do a “best of” post, but it’s been…
It’s coming around again. That consumer-driven day that sends people running to buy stuff simply because it’s on sale. I’m talking about Black Friday. Don’t give in. If you don’t need anything. Don’t buy anything. Let’s Get Something Straight… Unless…
Annie is not a minimalist. She likes stuff. Over the years, family and friends have given her enough stuffed animals, toys, and clothes to fill multiple closets. Still, she is learning. Today, I discuss ways of teaching kids about minimalism…
As we approach Christmas, I encourage you to be intentional about your spending. Black Friday. Cyber Monday. The emphasis is spend, spend, spend. That’s not the true meaning of Christmas. Think of all the excess. The paper. The packages. It…
Today’s post is a guest post by Carl Phillips. Distractions surround us, a constant tension in our day. Some distractions are obvious, some are subtle. Some are new to us, others are old foes. Dealing with distractions, in a world…
You’ve heard the phrase, “less is more.” What does it really mean? It’s simple. Less is more. Today, I’ll show you 21 ways that less is really more. It’s Not Just Lip Service: Less Is Really More 1. Less home…
Minimalists or not, we all want a home that fits our personality, right? If you want to add some charm and character to your home, consider your furniture. You don’t need a lot of furniture, but a few well-placed, practical…
Could you go without Internet? How long could you stay disconnected? The Internet has become a household necessity for most people. Does it have to be? Could you go a summer without Internet? I went two summers without Internet. In…
Have you ever tried to lose weight? It’s not always easy. We’re creatures of habit. In order to make change stick, we have to change our habits. But it doesn’t have to be so hard. Sometimes, little things can add…
For all intents and purposes, I’m a minimalist. I aspire to live with less stuff so that I can find more freedom. But I’m also practical. You might say that… I’m A Moderate Minimalist I don’t live in a tiny…
Today’s post is a guest post by Lee Ann Bisulca. The car was packed to the gills, and we still had to fit me in it. I climbed into the passenger seat, a flat of water bottles already at my…
Today’s post is another short excerpt from my free ebook, Get Back To Where You Are: Finding Yourself In The Present Moment. In order to live more simply and become more productive, we need to stop dreaming and start doing. Dreams…
I know some minimalists don’t have cars. That’s okay. But for those of you who do, I encourage you to drive undistracted and stay safe. Distracted driving is responsible for up to 16% of all fatal crashes in the U.S.…
Downtime is important. We get so busy that we forget that simple truth. We weren’t made to be constantly running. Zero downtime leads to stress. Stress leads to complications. A recent survey conducted at Everest College found that 83% of…
There’s something dumbing down the Internet. Most bloggers use it. I’m guilty of using it. Unknowingly, all of us who use this tool might be dumbing down the Internet. I’m even considering giving it up. If you’re not a blogger…
Back in my 20s, I had a good friend and neighbor named Larry. Larry was a nice guy, but he had a problem. Larry collected free junk. Larry would take almost anything if it was free. In time, his house…
When I was a kid, I was the victim of an extreme religious cult. I’m not sure my parents knew what they were getting us into, but I was essentially a slave from the ages of 10 to 16. It…
The year’s more than half way over. How are you doing on reaching your goals? Have you uncluttered? Have you downsized? Have you lost weight? Have you found more freedom? If you haven’t reached your own expectations, it’s never too…
Letting go of material belongings is one way to live simple. Still, it does you no good to live in a small house with less stuff if your spirit is full of emotional clutter. Your life will still be stressful…
Sometimes I find myself questioning my own sincerity in regard to minimalism. I feel like I don’t quite live up to the label. When I read posts from other minimalists, I know I own more stuff than many of them…
I operate a few websites. My main site is danerickson.net. I have a poetry site called Cowboy Zen. And of course, there’s this site, Hip Diggs. There have been several other blogs I’ve created and deleted over the years. Last…
Living a simple life is a goal. It’s also a daily habit. Goals and habits can be hard to make stick. So this post is really less about minimalism and more about sticking to any goal or habit. And sticking…
If you’re like most of us, you’ve struggled with confidence at times. But what if I could teach you how to gain simple confidence in just a few minutes a day? Would you give it a try? It’s as easy…
I keep track of a few bloggers. Leo Babauta, Joshua Becker, Jeff Goins, and Michael Hyatt are a few of my favorites. But I don’t consider myself a follower. And I refuse to join the crowd. Have you ever left…
Hip Diggs wishes you a simple little Christmas. Don’t make things too complicated You know what’s really important: it’s time with family and friends. Don’t complicate Christmas with too much travel or food. Don’t overdo the decorations and presents. Have…
I blog. I used to blog a lot. I’ve cut back, but people still ask, “How in the world do you find time?” Life is busy. If you’re like most bloggers, it’s just something you do on the side. You…
As a society, we need rules. Rules help to keep things in order. They keep people from harming other people. But when it comes to simple living, I’m not going to tell you how to live. I want you to…
Almost every time I tell someone that I write about simple living, they say something like, “Oh, I love those tiny houses, too, but I could never live in one.” Or they might say, “I had some friends who tried…
I love taking minimalist photos. There are many ways to create minimalist art. Today, I’d like to focus on close-up photos of objects and surfaces. It’s surprising how these kinds of photos can capture an abstract minimalist look. Photo by…
If you want to live more simply, what you do with extra money is important. In my own journey, I’m working toward working less and paying down debt… simultaneously. Soon, I’ll be receiving a $7200 tax return check. I file…
I’ve been thinking about what might happen to Hip Diggs if I were to die today. It would disappear from the Internet in a year or two when my hosting contract ran out. Hopefully, I’ll be around for awhile, but…
Today’s post is a guest post by Rose Burke from the Tiny Society. Tiny houses have significantly grown in popularity over the last few years, as they offer a kind of freedom traditional homes don’t. Living tiny allows you to…
Like many of you, I don’t really like clutter. As a kid I liked to keep my room fairly neat. But when I was a teenager, I didn’t really care too much when it got messy. Something changed. I bought…
Today’s post is a guest post by Jackson Pryor. Freedom is a gift, a blessing even. I can only speak for myself when I say that living more simply has felt like a massive weight being lifted from cramped shoulders…
The inspection is completed. We’ve negotiated a price. The appraisal is done. A new apartment is secured. Now it’s a waiting game. But there are still plenty of things to do. As Tom Petty once said, “the waiting is the…
Occasionally, I like to include a bit of my poetry at Hip Diggs. Today, I share a poem that includes some of my thoughts and feelings about minimalism and finding the balance within extremes. Photo by Dan Erickson All Things…
Decluttering seems to be the trend the last few years. I’m not a fan of clutter. I like my home neat and tidy. But life’s not always neat. There’s good reason you should be more tolerant of clutter. I’m not…
Over the last five years I’ve received a lot of questions about minimalism. Before I close shop here I thought I’d cover two common questions about minimalism that I might not have discussed in any depth in the Hip Diggs…
Have you ever walked into someone’s house and thought, “What is all this crap?” They have piles of stuff everywhere. Maybe you have more things laying around your own home than you’d like. Cluttered spaces create anxiety. Uncluttered spaces help…
It might seem like a strange time of year to write about vacationing. Not really. A vacation might be exactly what you need. I used to shun vacations. No more. I’ve learned that vacationing has many health benefits. Now, I…
Before you swear off all material possessions, stop and consider value. Each item we buy has value, some things have value beyond money. I recently bought my daughter, Annie, a clarinet for band. She was beaming. That in itself was…
Poverty is a problem in America. Sometimes people live in extreme poverty due to circumstances or forces beyond their control. But quit telling me the system is rigged and that our decisions do not influence our ability to overcome hardships.…
Walking is my go-to exercise. You can walk anywhere, from home, at work, or even when you travel. It requires no special equipment but a decent pair of shoes. And here’s the best part: the walking life could save your…
I don’t do reviews often. But recently I read a book I’d heard a lot about: The War Of Art by Steven Pressfield. It’s about creativity, but I think it can relate to minimalism and simple living. I’ll get to…
Hip Diggs is a blog about simple living and minimalism. You’d expect posts about getting rid of clutter, buying less stuff, and and living in smaller homes. Why then, write about writing? In this article The Short Answer: I’m A…
If you’re a writer, you’ve likely heard all sorts of tips about how to write. Words like focus, discipline, and habit all enter into conversations. I won’t lie. Those are all part of being a great writer. But I have…
A few years ago on my danerickson.net blog, someone told me that my writing was similar to Leo Babauta’s writing. “Leo who?” I asked. I did some research and discovered Zen Habits. I’d already been on a journey to live simple.…
A few weeks ago I announced my Live Simple membership program for 2017. However, I’ve since decided to postpone. Why? I spend too much time online already. So what to do? Over the last few months, I’ve developed 7 ways to limit…
Do you struggle with getting things done? Maybe your house is more cluttered than you’d like it to be. Or perhaps you don’t get enough exercise. You can trick your brain into action by doing things in tiny chunks. I’ve…
Do you ever work too hard, play too hard, or stay up too late? Sometimes I find myself burning the midnight oil, staying up too late for a few nights in a row. Here’s the problem: Too little sleep will…
What do toxic people have to do with slimming your schedule? More than might first meet the eye. Toxic people cause problems that eat up your time. Don’t get me wrong, I love people. But if someone proves themselves to…
I lived in small spaces through most of my 20s and 30s. I’m talking 100-300 square feet. I warmly refer to those days as my trailer days. Living in a trailer isn’t so bad. Sure, it’s a small space, but…
Have you seen them? Those adorable little transformable apartments? You can move the walls around and create different rooms. Ingenious, right? Not so fast. Let’s be honest. What’s a transformable apartment? It’s another idea in a line of ideas for…
I travel several times a year. As a moderate minimalist, I’ve learned to travel light. You don’t have to limit yourself to one set of clothes, but there are ways you can travel with only one or two small bags.…
You can learn a lot about minimalism when you travel. If you practice traveling light, you’re already learning the basic concepts of being minimalist. I travel several times each year. Vacations, weekend getaways, conferences, and job interviews all require planning…
Remember that old saying, “If at first you don’t succeed: Try, try, try again. This is age-old wisdom, but we need to add something important into the mix. William Edward Hickson was a British educational writer. He lived from 1803-1870.…
It feels to me like some folks think that turning minimalist will make them happy. But happiness isn’t achieved. Just as we won’t gain happiness from buying stuff, we also won’t gain happiness by eliminating stuff. Would a dining room…
We’ve been convinced that our basic needs include a plethora of conveniences. Think about your basic needs for a minute. Most of the things you consider needs today didn’t even exist 150 years ago. Let’s rethink basic. Today’s post is…
Back in August of 2015, I announced that I would be creating an online simple-living course. Then everybody created one. Now the idea feels uncreative. The plan was to start the course in January of 2016. But I needed a larger…
I hear my daughter, Annie, talking about what she wants in life. She already knows the traditional American Dream. She wants a nice house with a swimming pool and a sports car and… We’ve all been taught to want more…
Do you struggle with clutter? Is it hard for you to let things go? I used to hold on to much more than I really needed, but I discovered a secret to simple living: Unownership. In this article What Is…
Have you ever received a gift that you didn’t want? What do you do? You like to live simple. The unwanted gift doesn’t fit your lifestyle. Do you keep it? Or is it okay to let it go? I used…
The fact that minimalism gives us more time to spend with the ones we love is great. But what about the ones who create problems? How do we deal with an unwelcome guest? It’s happened to everyone at some point.…
Have you ever visualized yourself living in a small, simple, minimally furnished home? I sure have. And when I visualize living with less stuff, I begin to slowly get rid of things. Visualization is another strategy to help you reach…
How far do you live from your work? How far do you live from the closest grocery store? If you’re in the city, suburbs, or a small town, you should consider walking and biking as a mode of transportation. You’ll…
Have you ever wondered what a dog thinks about? Does a dog worry? Does a dog wonder? Perhaps, but more likely, a dog just acts, automatically by intuition. Want simple? Humans could learn a lot from dogs. My dog, Shep:…
It’s a phrase that’s been used as long as we could speak: What if? It can be used in both positive and negative contexts. But what if we stopped saying what if? I’ll admit that I can be a bit…
Understanding the concepts of simple living lends itself well to many areas of our lives. Take writing, for instance, choosing the right words is important. We need to be specific and accurate. The spaces we leave matter, too. White space…
So you want to write a book? What’s holding you back? Chances are high that you make one of these three standard excuses: I don’t have enough time I don’t know what to write about I’m not a good enough…
The moment of truth is now very, very close. I’ve signed the contract with my real-estate agent, she’s taken the photos, and the house will be listed this week. It’s both exciting and a little scary. Yikes! Selling my house…
Each year, I set a few goals. I prefer simple goal setting rather than going big. Often, I see people trying to change the world in a day. That won’t work. If you overdo your goals, you’re more likely to…
When I first started Hip Diggs, I told you that I was starting the site as a way to log my own simple journey. To an extent, I’ve done that. In the future, I’ll be documenting my simple journey even…
It’s been awhile since I’ve posted about clutter busting. I don’t care how minimalist and committed you are, clutter has a way of creeping back into our lives. As I look around my own house right now, I see too…
The holiday season is almost here. You’ve probably noticed that most major department stores already have their Christmas items on display. That’s no accident. Each year it seems like they push Christmas on us a little earlier. They want you…
I don’t like to talk politics on Hip Diggs, but I believe we can make a strong political statement through the action of simple living. That statement could spread, creating positive changes that could change the face of the nation.…
The Facebook world is not the real world. I remember when I first joined Facebook. It was fascinating to reconnect with old friends and acquaintances. Then I started writing. My friends supported me. So what if I made more friends?…
One way of sticking to your goals is to write about the journey. I believe we should write or blog regularly. I think it’s key to making positive changes in our lives. As a minimalist, I think we should do…
I’ve written a couple posts on the downside of being a homeowner. But an old friend on Facebook commented on a thread about selling. He said, “Dan, you should never sell your house.” Here’s why: It can create a smart…
Do you spend too much time on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram? Everybody has to make decisions about how they use social media. Most bloggers share posts via social media. How many social media platforms should you use? There are so…
I’m passionate about making music. I’m a singer-songwriter and I play a bunch of instruments. I love music. Still, I’ve sold nearly half my musical stuff this year. Today, I’ll explain why. First, I’ve got to be honest. I didn’t…
Letting go of material belongings creates space for God. Clearing your life of excess creates space for God. Reducing your schedule of busyness creates space for God. Minimalism opens space for God. If you believe in God, perhaps you should…
How many times have you been around someone who suddenly shrieks in terror? When you ask them what’s wrong they scream, “Spider!” Why do they fear spiders so? Chances are it’s a learned behavior. It’s not the spiders, snakes, and…
Since my 20s, I’ve been an avid bicycle commuter. There have been times and seasons in my life when it wasn’t possible. But I’ve been commuting by bicycle whenever I can. You can start commuting, too. I currently ride a…
It’s so easy to get off track with a healthy lifestyle. But getting off track isn’t the end of the world. You can get right back on. Today, I’ll teach you 5 ways to stay on track with your diet…
At the beginning of the year I said that my biggest goal was to reduce stress. How’s that going? Okay, although it could always be better. One reason we tend to feel stress is that we want things to change. We…
Did you know that most of our stress is self induced? I think this might be especially true among minimalists. Why? Because we’re too busy making rules for ourselves and caring about little things that don’t really matter. There’s a…
Over the years I’ve owned a few table lamps. I’ve also got rid of a few table lamps. I really don’t like table lamps. They just take up table space. I wish all living rooms had overhead lighting. Awhile ago…
You don’t need shiny new modern things to be a minimalist. In fact, as long as what you have is functional, you really don’t need new stuff at all. You simply need to practice taking care of what you have.…
Since focusing on primarily writing over at my other blog, danerickson.net, I’ve been continuing to write a bunch of new minimalist music under the name Anderhill. It was my hope that the traffic at my Dan Erickson blog would increase…
In today’s world it’s cool to be busy. You get praised for hustle and being on the fast-track to success. But speed can slow you down in the long run. Photo by Deccio Creative I’ve been writing and blogging for…
In today’s consumer-driven environment it’s easier than ever to buy stuff. Most Americans buy too much stuff. Do you have a set of criteria for making buying decisions? You should. If you don’t, it’s too easy to spend, spend, spend.…
I grew up loving sports. As a young boy, I watched sports on TV almost every day. I still like some sports, but I stopped watching more than an occasional game on TV years ago. Sports are American traditions. Baseball,…
It’s spring again! Are you ready to clear the clutter that’s gathered all winter? It’s not always easy. Tackling cluttered messes can feel overwhelming. There’s hope. Today, I’m sharing 7 spring cleaning tips. You might be surprised. Many people struggle…
Many of us start a collection at some point in life. It starts when you’re a kid: marbles, dolls, sports cards. For some, it becomes a problem as an adult. Starting a collection might seem like a good hobby, but…
Does it feel like you’re always rushing? Are meetings, appointments, commitments and family responsibilities becoming too much to juggle? Stop rushing. Rushing leads to stress. Stress can lead to health problems. There are many ways to slow down, but you…
When I was a kid, I was the child victim of an extreme religious cult. I worked 60-80 hours a week. I was required to take a daily shower. It made sense because we were digging ditches and shoveling horse…
Do you think in all or nothing terms? Do things have to be one way or the other? If you think this way, and many people do, it’s dangerous. Black and white thinking can lead to poor decisions and extreme…
At the beginning of the summer, I posted about my seasons of discontent. The premise of that post was that we all go through times when we question ourselves, our motives, and our actions. That struggle is real. As the…
When you sell your house, chances are high that the buyer will be getting a home inspection. After all, a bank doesn’t want to loan money for a house that is in complete disrepair. I’ve made a lot of updates…
My daughter, Annie, recently bought a Samsung tablet with some money that she’d saved. She loves it. She might love it a bit too much. I could be the bad guy and put heavier restrictions on her tablet time, but…
I know we’re not all dealt the same cards. And I understand that there are a lot of roadblocks on the path to success. But as long as we operate from an external locus of control, we’ll continue to falter.…
Can you tame want? Over the years, I’ve bought many things that I don’t really need. I’m sure most of you have, too. After all, many of us have been raised in an instant-gratification culture. We’re constantly bombarded with visions…
A little over a year ago I stopped using sugar in my coffee. A few months later I almost stopped drinking coffee altogether. I started drinking tea. I’ve been drinking more tea ever since. I’ve been more of a coffee…
One of my goals for 2016 was to plant and grow a bigger garden. I was off to a good start. I enlarged the size of my garden last fall. I planted more vegetables in the spring. I kept my…
When was the last time you gave something away? When was the last time you intentionally helped those with less than you? You can turn this Thanksgiving into a Thanks Give Away. What’s a thanks give away? It’s simply giving…
Are you creative? If you are, you’ll love The Creative Side. I believe that simple living and creativity are closely related. When we simplify our lives, we have more time and energy to practice the creative arts. Photo Credit Before…
Note: Today’s post is the last in a short series of guest posts at Hip Diggs, by Emily McDermott. I am lucky that I have a Goodwill Donation Center two miles away from my house. In beginning days of my…
This is a blog about simple living, minimalism, and decluttering. I’m supposed to be ruthless about letting stuff go. But sometimes you want to think twice before you give something away. Today, we’ll look at a few questions to ask…
It’s been a long summer already. Moving wore me out. I’m ready for a week off. We’ll be spending some time by the ocean for some much needed rest and relaxation. In the past, I’ve posted about the importance of…
When I first started blogging back in 2011, I wanted to make $1,000,000 as a blogger. But my motivations have changed. Sure, I’d like to become financially independent. I’d like to sell more copies of my books. But what I…
I don’t wave my faith around like a flag. But occasionally I like to give credit where I believe it’s due. I don’t claim that any one belief is better than another. It’s just my belief that trusting in God…
Do you want to live a more healthy lifestyle? Have you tried to lose weight only to find yourself getting frustrated? Do you get confused by all the fad diets. Do you wonder what kind of exercise program is best…
When I was younger I had great expectations and dreams. I wanted to be a rock and roll star. I envisioned fancy mansions, cars, lots of exotic travel, and millions of dollars in the bank. It took awhile to get…
When I was kid, our family lived a couple of miles from the Atlantic Ocean. Through my teens and twenties I lived close to the Puget Sound. I’ve spent my share of time at the beach. We can learn some…
Until recently, I hadn’t purchased any new clothes for almost two years. I purposely let my wardrobe dwindle. In the past, I’ve had as many as 20 sets of clothes. I never wore half of them, so I gave that…
Does life seem too complicated? Would you like to simplify your life? There are many ways to get started at making life easier. It all starts with you. Learn 10 strategies to simplify your life, exclusively at Hip Diggs. In…
I’ve always lived simply. I was a child victim of an extreme cult. We lived simply, with only the stark necessities. In my twenties, I chose to live simply in a 20-foot trailer. I rode a bicycle as my primary…
With the holiday season among us, here’s a friendly reminder for you to skip the madness and ban Black Friday. You might think your getting great deals, but you’re still spending, spending, spending. I’ve rarely shopped on Black Friday. The…
Staying active can be tricky. If you’ve slacked off on your exercise routine, know that you’re not alone. Millions of people start exercising only to get off track. But there are steps you can take to get back, and stay…
If you follow my Facebook Page, you may have noticed some posts about changes coming to Hip Diggs. If you don’t follow the Facebook Page, I’ll fill you in now. I recently changed the name of my Facebook Page from…
Some people swear by routine. Some people hate routine. Like anything else, there are pros and cons to strict schedules. Routine can create positive habits, but too much routine creates some inflexibility. Is there a healthy balance? In this article…
Do you find yourself rushed? Do you find your surroundings cluttered? Would you like to live more simply? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I can help you get started. Hip Diggs is currently offering two free…
I believe there are four basic fears that keep us from letting go. These fears are behind addictions. These fears are behind obsessions. These fears are behind overconsumption. The biggest of these four fears is the fear of losing everything.…
So, you got a domain name? You’re a brand new blogger. Now what? Stop! Think. Have a plan before you hit the publish button. I’ve learned about blogging the hard way. I’d like to help you avoid a few of…
We see minimalists and simple-living bloggers posting about the things we don’t need, but what about the things we do need? Sometimes it seems like minimalism would have you give away everything, including the kitchen sink and your own mother.…
I know I’ve referred to myself as a minimalist on this blog. I’m not really. I do have every intent to continue to scale down the way I live. I am passionate about spreading the ideology of simple living. But…
When people are excessive we often call them selfish. So could extreme minimalism really be a form of selfishness? Perhaps, anything in excess, even minimalism, is selfish. Just as my recent post in response to The Minimalists’ first podcast, I…
Have you ever tried to compete to get ahead in life? Have you strived for more financial success? Maybe you’ve even had some moderate financial success. But is that really true success? Or is it a distraction? Some days I…
In June, I had a hernia surgery. It was the first surgery I’ve ever had. It gave me some pause to think about what’s important in life. It also got me to thinking more about minimalism. I’d like to share…
This is just a short update post in regard to selling my home. I accepted an offer on my house today. I’m not going to go into detail about the numbers at this point because we still have to get…
Simple Coaching Package One includes: 4 hours of coaching by phone (within the U.S.) or Skype. Email access for 30 days. An evaluation of what you want to accomplish and a plan to help you reach your goals to become…
Have you read all the minimalist’s posts about being less busy? I sure have. I’ve even written a few posts about doing less and staying unbusy over the years. But we have a practical problem here. In today’s world, to…
Only you can start living more simply. It starts today. I’m here to help. Hip Diggs wants to teach you skills to simplify your life. Learn to get back to basics. The secret to simple living is right at your…
With all of life’s busyness and complications it becomes easy to lose ourselves. We get so overwhelmed that we can’t seem to slow down. We get frustrated and angry. We struggle to find peace. Can you relate? That’s why I…
I don’t regularly practice meditation in the traditional sense. But I do find peace in the things I do. In my free ebook, The Happiness Of Simple, I discuss how simple tasks such as sweeping can become meditative. It’s not the end…
This is it, my last post at Hip Diggs. I said something similar at the end of 2018, but this time it’s for real. My minimalist experiment is complete. It’s time to move on. But before I go, I’d like…
With all the busyness and technological clutter in our lives, we’ve forgotten the art of being still. That could be a problem. Taking time for being still helps to reduce stress. Less stress leads to less anxiety. I’ve struggled with…
Thanksgiving is on the way. I’ve always loved the Thanksgiving holiday. It hasn’t been as commercialized as many other holidays. It’s about gratitude. It’s about family. It’s about food. Still, sometimes the traditional Thanksgiving meal feels like too much. It’s…
Being creative is not always easy. Practicing a lifestyle that fosters creativity is simple. Highly creative people have some things in common. I’ve struggled with creativity at times, but I’ve discovered what many other creatives know. There are some simple…
You’ve all heard the saying “buyer beware” or “caveat emptor.” It’s true. It’s always the best practice to get a potential property inspected before buying. Depending on the market you live in, it will cost you. Don’t be a…
Photo Credit I’ve moved a lot in my life. Too many times, really. It’s been awhile since I’ve figured it out, but at one point in my life I’d moved more times than years I’d been alive. In the past…
After about 20 years of home ownership (5 in starter home & close to 15 in contractor-built home), my husband and I have confronted an almost uncountable, mainly because we haven’t kept track, number of learning experiences related to home…
I’ve recently started designing two new blogs to go live in 2015: www.simplwrtr.com and www.simplblogger.com. Hip Diggs is now part of the Simple Family. Photo Credit I was considering letting Hip Diggs go, but now I realize Hip Diggs and the topic…
In the not-so-distant future, Hip Diggs will be offering a simple online course for members only. Please be patient as we develop this site. In the meantime, take a few moments to visit our main site at hipdiggs.com. Download a…
Posted on April 11, 2016 by Dan Erickson · 2 Comments We all have our weaknesses. I’m no exception. I’ve struggled with many things throughout life: alcohol, diet, fear, and more. Did you ever notice that some of our greatest…
Posted on April 11, 2016 by Dan Erickson · 2 Comments We all have our weaknesses. I’m no exception. I’ve struggled with many things throughout life: alcohol, diet, fear, and more. Did you ever notice that some of our greatest…
Posted on April 11, 2016 by Dan Erickson · 2 Comments We all have our weaknesses. I’m no exception. I’ve struggled with many things throughout life: alcohol, diet, fear, and more. Did you ever notice that some of our greatest…
Posted on April 11, 2016 by Dan Erickson · 2 Comments We all have our weaknesses. I’m no exception. I’ve struggled with many things throughout life: alcohol, diet, fear, and more. Did you ever notice that some of our greatest…
Posted on April 11, 2016 by Dan Erickson · 2 Comments We all have our weaknesses. I’m no exception. I’ve struggled with many things throughout life: alcohol, diet, fear, and more. Did you ever notice that some of our greatest…
Posted on April 14, 2016 by Dan Erickson · Leave a comment Is there a formula for a good blog post? Not exactly, but I believe there are some basic elements to great blog posts. I don’t like the idea…
Posted on April 14, 2016 by Dan Erickson · Leave a comment Is there a formula for a good blog post? Not exactly, but I believe there are some basic elements to great blog posts. I don’t like the idea…
Posted on April 14, 2016 by Dan Erickson · Leave a comment Is there a formula for a good blog post? Not exactly, but I believe there are some basic elements to great blog posts. I don’t like the idea…
You might think living simple is easy. It’s not. Modern culture would not have us live simple. It’s a challenge to let go of all the stuff that’s been thrust upon us. Will you stand with me and take the…
I used to be a perfectionist. Imperfect wouldn’t cut it. Everything had to be just right. Guess what? I never completed half the things I set out to accomplish. I was too busy trying to get everything perfect. Does this…
Life is complicated enough. We don’t need more. We need less. Welcome to the new Hip Diggs. We promote simple living. Photo Credit Hip Diggs is changing. Our original purpose was to offer information to new homeowners with an emphasis…
Okay, so you have more stuff than space. Built-ins and shelves are great ideas. Consider buying some shelving and installing it in the higher areas of your walls. This gives you more space for storing things like books, DVDs, pictures,…
So we’ve talked about minimizing your material stuff. Don’t stop. It’s a good practice to consider each thing you possess regularly, and ask yourself, “Do I really need this?” If the answer is no, let it go. It’s also a…
I bought a house. What was I thinking? Whatever I was thinking, it’s too late. I can’t take it back now. So as crazy as it is, I’ve decided to make the best of it. I’m starting a blog. Well,…
I was fortunate enough to learn a valuable lesson early on in my home-ownership journey. Buyer beware! This lesson cost me $454.44. I hope by writing about it, I might save you some money. In order to fully appreciate this…
At some point, every home owner needs to power wash the outside of the house along with the deck or patio. Power washing not only helps the house & deck stay looking nice, which helps with the value of the…
Our first deck on our first house was a basic, 12×16 square, and what we expected to take a weekend took most of the summer. The second deck we built is the one on our current home, a 20×30 with…
I’m a busy guy. I work full-time, keep my personal/writing blog at danerickson.net, and I’m a single dad. Keeping up here at hipdiggs.com has proven to be a challenge I may not be up to. That’s why I’m asking for a…
My dream house isn’t actually my house. It’s my garage. That’s right, my garage. I told you I’m crazy. Wait. Hear me out: I’m a big fan of the small house movement. I believe in concepts like sustainability, enery efficiency,…
October 6, 2014 / Dan Erickson / Follow / Join / RSS I’ve recently started designing two new blogs to go live in 2015: www.simplwrtr.com and www.simplblogger.com. Hip Diggs is now part of the Simpl family. Photo Credit I was considering letting Hip…
RSS / Follow Humble beginnings require excellent service. Hip Diggs guarantees quality. It’s our simple promise to you. New companies have to give it all they’ve got. That’s why Simpl is ready to give you our best. Hip Diggs is part…
Okay, so this post isn’t based off of some kind of in-depth consumer-based study. I didn’t go visit every home improvement store known to man to compare prices and services. Of course, the two big stores are Lowe’s and…
Reality has to start with a dream. I bought a house. That was the first step of making my dream a reality. But the dream goes much deeper. I love the small house movement. The house I bought is…
Photo Credit Now I understand the expression, “get your mind out of the gutter.” When your gutters are right beneath a walnut tree and have been ignored for a few years, they are a dirty place. I must have scooped…
Photo Credit All was good, or so I thought. Then I wandered out back to see the two backyard spigots running full pressure. When I tried to turn them off nothing happened. Water came out when they were on. Water…
We love our pets. They’re part of the family. Our dog Shep is a great dog, but he got the short end of the stick on this move. The backyard at the old rental house was big. The yard here…
I swore I’d never buy a house with walnut trees or ivy in my yard. Why? Because the rental I’d been living in for the past three years had both. And both were problematic. Yakima, Washington has a rat problem.…
Hip Diggs recently did a Facebook survey to discover that we all have things we think we need but don’t. The responses were interesting: everything from government to motorized bathroom scrubbers. Based on the survey, I put together a list of…
Always wanting more is a mindset. We aren’t born with it. We’re taught. From a young age our parents gave us stuff. From a young age we made comparisons. We falsely learned that in order to be happy, we must…
Have you ever spent too much time thinking about something? When you put too much focus on your problems, life gets more stressful. Thinking too much, leads to a cluttered mind. Overthinking complicates life. Overthinking is usually rooted in fear…
How much stuff do you really need in your kitchen? I think it depends on how much cooking and baking you do. I cook simple meals that don’t require much. That’s why I’ve been making my kitchen into a minimalist…
What are you doing this weekend? Do you have some extra work to get done? Does the yard need mowing? Is the house cluttered? Do you feel behind, like you’ll never get caught up? Maybe you’re trying too hard. Maybe,…
