What Possessions Would Joshua Fields Millburn Choose?

Our belongings have the power to linger in our minds like unrelenting ghosts, haunting our thoughts incessantly. However, even before they dominate our mental space, these possessions often strip away the openness from our lives, diminishing the sense of freedom well before they physically overwhelm

Our belongings have the power to linger in our minds like unrelenting ghosts, haunting our thoughts incessantly.

However, even before they dominate our mental space, these possessions often strip away the openness from our lives, diminishing the sense of freedom well before they physically overwhelm our surroundings.

Virtually every day, individuals inquire about my personal items and gear.

They want to know the specific brand of black T-shirt I prefer.

They ask about the origin of my sleek, modern sofa.

They wonder what type of chair suits a minimalist's desk setup.

In the past, these kinds of inquiries used to irritate me deeply.

For years, I have dedicated my writing and discussions to the idea of releasing attachments. To embracing simplicity by requiring fewer things. To discovering true contentment without constantly acquiring more possessions.

So, it puzzled and frustrated me that people were fixated on what to purchase next.

Were they completely overlooking the core message of minimalism?

But over time, I realized I had been mistaken in my reaction.

Taking a step back allowed me to perceive a different perspective altogether:

These individuals are not seeking approval to hoard more items.

Instead, they are looking for advice on how to approach their choices with greater purpose and mindfulness.

Their questions reflect a level of confidence and trust they place in me.

As one of the key figures known as The Minimalists,

they believe I make thoughtful decisions.

They assume I have thoroughly investigated my options.

They recognize that I have shed unnecessary extras.

And they trust that every item I keep fulfills a meaningful role in my life.

In this assumption, they are absolutely correct.

The vast majority of people do not require additional purchases.

Yet, there are occasions when acquiring something new becomes necessary.

In those instances, the priority should be making a smarter choice rather than a larger or more extravagant one.

As a result, I no longer feel annoyed by these everyday questions.

On the contrary, I have started to embrace and welcome them fully.

This shift comes from understanding that minimalism does not oppose owning things outright.

It stands firmly against owning too much—against excess in all its forms.

Minimalism is not a path of self-denial or deprivation.

Rather, it is a way to extract greater joy, utility, and satisfaction from fewer possessions.

Here lies the intriguing paradox: Nowadays, I derive significantly more benefit and value from the limited items I own compared to the era when my life was overwhelmed by thousands of unnecessary objects.

With fewer belongings comes amplified worth from each one.

Therefore, it is perfectly fine that people continue to ask me about what I own and use.

This is not because everyone should mimic my exact collection.

It is because observing what constitutes 'enough' for another person can provide valuable insight and inspiration for defining your own boundaries.

That is precisely why I am launching a fresh segment on The Minimalists Podcast titled What Would Joshua Own?

If you find yourself needing to purchase an essential item regardless—such as a coffee grinder, a comfortable mattress, or a durable stainless steel pan—you are welcome to ask me directly about my preferences.

Understand that this is not intended as a strict prescription or an official endorsement.

It serves simply as a helpful reference to inform your decision-making.

The ultimate aim is not for you to replicate my lifestyle exactly.

It is to empower you to live more deliberately and intentionally in your own life.

So, whether your question involves my bath towels, infrared sauna, leaf blower, yoga mat, daily supplements, or any other item, feel free to send a brief voice memo via email to [email protected].

I will make every effort to respond thoughtfully.

My intention is not to encourage you to acquire more things—

but to assist you in needing less overall

and maximizing the value and fulfillment from everything you choose to keep.