Lahai – Sampha’s Ethereal Journey Through Healing and Connection
Sampha’s sophomore album, Lahai, emerges as a beacon of growth and hope, a stark contrast to the raw…
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A Symphony of Emotions: A Review of Anatomy of a Fall
Anatomy of a Fall, directed by Justine Triet, is a cinematic journey that transcends the boundaries of a…
Journaling – A Minimalist Guide on How To Journal and Why it Works
In this article Discovering the Power of Minimalist Journaling Getting Started: Setting Up Your Minimalist Journaling Practice Choosing…
A Review of David Fincher’s The Killer: Delving into the Shadows
David Fincher’s The Killer, adapted from the French graphic novel “Le Tueur”, marks a thrilling return to the…
Intricate Webs and Emotional Echoes: A Review of Ira Sachs’ Passages
tapestry of human desires, conflicts, and reconciliations. It’s a film that delves into the raw complexities of human…
Film Review: The Poignant Intimacy of Celine Song’s Past Lives
Past Lives, Celine Song’s directorial debut, is a meditative piece that captures the essence of what might have…
Film Review: Unraveling the Chaos in Emma Seligman’s Bottoms
Bottoms, directed by the astute Emma Seligman, plummets into the riotous realm of high school with a giddy,…
13 Practical Steps to Embrace Generosity and Minimalism: A Comprehensive Guide
In this article Introduction: My Journey Towards Embracing Generosity and Minimalism Understanding the Benefits of Generosity and Minimalism…
Rethinking Work: A Minimalist’s Guide (15 Tips)
In this article The Art of Letting Go: Embracing Minimalism in Your Work Life Finding Balance: Prioritizing Health…
Simplifying Your Wardrobe: My Personal Journey Towards a Minimalist Lifestyle
In this article The Cluttered Closet: My Journey to Minimalism Why I Decided to Simplify My Wardrobe Debunking…
Breaking the Cell Phone Habit: A Comprehensive Guide to Regain Control of Your Digital Life
In this article Introduction: My Personal Journey with Cell Phone Addiction Understanding the Impact of Excessive Cell Phone…
Cousin Review – A Resolute Exploration of New Soundscapes by Wilco
7.3 In their 13th studio outing, Cousin, Wilco has once again demonstrated their unyielding drive to evolve, to…
The Darker The Shadow The Brighter The Light Review – A Luminous Return to Form for The Streets
The Streets, fronted by the notable Mike Skinner, have made a triumphant comeback with their sixth album, The…
Sufjan Stevens’ Will Anybody Ever Love Me? Album Review: A Heartfelt Plea for Unconditional Love
Sufjan Stevens' latest track, Will Anybody Ever Love Me?, is a poignant exploration of longing and the universal desire for unconditional love, wrapped in his signature melodic brilliance.
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Cleo Sol’s Heaven Album Review: A Lustrous Neo-Soul Journey of Faith and Self-Love
Cleo Sol's Heaven is a radiant exploration of faith, self-love, and the complexities of the human experience, delivered with a blend of neo-soul warmth and lyrical depth.
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The National’s Laugh Track Album Review: A Deep Dive into Subdued Emotions and Musical Evolution
The National's Laugh Track is a continuation of their introspective journey, offering a blend of subdued emotions and refined musicality, while hinting at the band's potential for a fiercer rock sound in the future.
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The Best Fall Recipes to Warm Your Soul
Fall is a season of transformation. As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, our palates…
Why Is Minimalism So Popular?
Let’s take a little trip down memory lane, shall we? When I first noticed a change in the…
How To Get The Scandinavian Minimalist Aesthetic In Your Living Room
When I first walked into my friend’s living room in Oslo, Norway, I was taken aback by how…
Japanese Minimalism
Japanese minimalism is a traditional form of living that has influenced the world. It’s not just about decluttering, it’s about finding beauty in simplicity. The Japanese have practiced minimalism for centuries. It’s deeply rooted in their culture and traditions. From the way they design their homes to the way they fold their clothes, everything is done with intention and purpose.
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Scandinavian Minimalism: A Comprehensive Guide
Scandinavian minimalism is more than just a design trend. It’s a lifestyle that embraces simplicity, functionality, and a connection to the natural world. Rooted in the Nordic countries of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, this design philosophy is characterized by clean lines, neutral colors, and an emphasis on comfort and coziness
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Mitski’s The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We Album Review: A Melodic Exploration of Intimacy and Irony
Mitski's The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We is a masterful blend of heartfelt narratives and sardonic wit, showcasing her unparalleled melodic prowess and introspective lyricism.
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James Blake’s Playing Robots Into Heaven Album Review: A Return to Electronic Mastery
James Blake's latest album, Playing Robots Into Heaven, is a sonic tapestry that seamlessly blends his foundational electronic sound with modern innovations, offering listeners a deep and immersive musical experience.
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The Power of Experiences: Finding Happiness Beyond Materialism
Discover the secret to lasting happiness that goes beyond material possessions. This insightful post explores how to find joy in simple, meaningful experiences.
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The Best Minimalism Books (and the worst)
Discover the best and worst books on minimalism to guide you on your journey to a simpler, more fulfilling life. From decluttering your home to organizing your mind, find the perfect read for you.
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How to Sleep Sitting Up the Minimalist Way
Discover the art of sleeping while sitting up and its surprising benefits. From reducing snoring to aiding post-surgery recovery, learn how to master this minimalist skill.
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12 Simple Ways To Effectively Declutter Your Home
Embark on a transformative journey to declutter your home with Hip Diggs' comprehensive guide. Discover 12 actionable steps to create a serene, clutter-free environment, and delve into the profound benefits of a decluttered space. From understanding the importance of decluttering to mastering the art of letting go, this article is your ultimate roadmap
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The Best Minimalist Watches Available In 2023 For Men & Women
In today’s world where ostentatious jewelry and over-the-top fashion are the norm, minimalist watches bring a much-needed touch of simplicity and grace. With their understated elegance, these watches serve as a gentle reminder that sometimes, the less we have, the more we truly possess.
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Youth Lagoon’s Heaven Is a Junkyard Album Review: A Sonic Odyssey of Renewal and Reflection
Heaven Is a Junkyard by Youth Lagoon is a profound musical journey, encapsulating Trevor Powers' evolution as an artist, blending chamber pop fundamentals with introspective narratives and rich sonic landscapes.
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The Minimalist Aesthetic: A Deep Dive into its Principles and Practices
Dive into the world of the minimalist aesthetic, exploring its origins, principles, and profound influence across art, design, and modern living. Discover how simplicity and intentionality can transform your life.
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The Japanese House – In the End It Always Does Album Review: Navigating Heartbreak and Hope
In the End It Always Does by The Japanese House masterfully weaves introspective lyrics with vibrant production, creating a sonic tapestry that explores love, loss, and the intricacies of personal evolution.
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The Ballad of Darren Album Review – Album Review: Blur’s Triumphant Return
The Ballad of Darren captures Blur's reflective journey, blending their iconic Britpop essence with modern introspection, marking a triumphant and deeply personal reunion.
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The Ultimate Guide to Creating a Minimalist Wardrobe
Discover the transformative power of a minimalist wardrobe. Dive into fashion simplicity, iconic inspirations, and sustainable choices for intentional style.
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10 Contemporary Minimalist Artists to Watch in 2023
In the vast expanse of the art world, minimalism has always stood out as a beacon of simplicity,…
12 Modern Minimalist Homes from Around the World: A Global Design Tour
In today’s fast-paced world, where excess often dominates, there’s a refreshing global movement steering us back to simplicity:…
The Essence of Authentic Connection: Building Genuine Bonds in a Digital World
In an age where digital interactions often overshadow face-to-face encounters, the term “authentic connection” has taken on profound…
Minimalist Bodybuilding: The Essentials of Building Muscle with Less
In a world where fitness trends come and go, and where every month seems to introduce a new…
The Art of Slow Reading: Embracing a More Intentional and Focused Approach to Reading in Today’s Fast-Paced World
In today’s digital age, where information is constantly at our fingertips, many of us have unconsciously adopted a…
The Vinyl Revival: Why Analog is Making a Comeback in a Digital Age
When I first held a vinyl record in my hands as a teenager, I was captivated by its…
The Ultimate Guide: How to Pack Vinyl Records for a Stress-Free Move
Introduction I’ve always believed that vinyl records are more than just objects; they’re memories encapsulated in grooves. Each…
Crafting the Perfect Playlist: A Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction Ever tried to capture a sunset in a jar? Crafting the perfect playlist feels a bit like…
Simplifying Your Music Collection: A Guide to Intentional Listening
In today’s digital age, music is more accessible than ever before. With just a click, we can stream…
The Challenges of Tiny Living and How to Overcome Them
Embracing the tiny living lifestyle is a bold decision that has been gaining traction in recent years. This…
Tiny Living vs. Minimalism: Understanding the Differences
In the quest for a simpler, more meaningful life, many people are drawn to the concepts of tiny…
The Role of Minimalism in Film Editing
In the world of film, the art of storytelling is not just about the script, the actors, or…
The Role of Minimalism in Animated Films
Animation is a powerful medium, capable of bringing to life complex narratives and emotions. One approach that has…
Minimalism in Architecture: How Less Becomes More
The world of architecture is vast and diverse, encompassing a myriad of styles and movements. Yet, amidst this…
The Art of Simple Fitness: Minimalist Workouts for Maximum Impact
Today, I want to share with you a personal journey that has transformed my life. It’s a journey…
The Minimalist’s Guide to Sustainable Living: How to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
Hello, dear readers. Today, I want to take you on a journey, a journey that has profoundly changed…
How to Create a Minimalist Home
In the modern world, where consumerism often reigns supreme, there exists a countercurrent that champions simplicity and intentionality:…
Minimalist Masterpieces: Films that Embrace the Art of Less
The beauty of minimalism is found in its ability to convey profound truths with simplicity. The focus is…
Coffee Table Alternatives: Best Options For Your Living Room
Hello, dear minimalist enthusiasts! It’s me, your go-to minimalist guide. I am really stoked to share a new…
Being Minimalist
What does it mean to be minimalist? That’s a good question. I’d guess that many people who consider…
Jesus Lived A Simple Life: 20 Great Teachers On Possessions
I consider myself a follower of Christ, but something bothers me. A good portion of folks who call…
Lost In The Luxury Of Linens
Everybody loves soft fluffy pillows. Who doesn’t love warm cozy blankets and comforters and fine sheets? It feels…
Joshua Becker On Christianity And Becoming Minimalist
A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to talk with Joshua Becker at Becoming Minimalist. We talked…
Admission Of Guilt: I’m Still Holding On To Too Much Stuff
I have an admission to make. I’m still holding on to way too much stuff. Sure, I call…
The Perfect Plan For Self-Improvement Is Simple
Minimalists are usually active in self-improvement. If you weren’t trying to improve your life, you’d just let the…
Minimalism Is a Religion and I’m Leaving the Church
As I get closer to wrapping up actively posting at Hip Diggs, I think it’s only fair that…
6 Ways To Reenergize When You Feel Like Giving Up
Whether it’s your journey toward living more simply, practicing better exercising habits, or working on a business venture,…
10 Minimalist Strategies To Live By
If you’ve lived like an average American, you’ve probably always had more than you’ve needed. I’ve purposefully tried…
5 Mindful Strategies To Get Rid Of Clutter
Is your home cluttered? Do you have too much stuff? Do you want to kill your clutter? There’s…
Play Music To Simplify Life And Reduce Stress
I’ll be honest. This post is biased. I love music. Music has done wonders for me. It has…
TV: 5 Reasons To Turn Off Your Screen
Have you ever sat in front of the TV all day? Have you ever played video games until…
Daily Walk For Body, Mind And Spirit
Living simple includes simple exercise. One of the best forms of exercise is also one of the simplest…
14 Simple Foods For Better Health
If you’re like me and most Americans, you struggle with your diet. I’ve been doing better as I…
Exercise In A 350 Square-Foot Studio Apartment
When I was in college I lived in a studio apartment. It was small, but that didn’t stop…
5 Ways To Stop Being Too Busy
To keep our lives and homes in order we need to make time for each other. Communication is…
Do Less: Say No More Often
As we gain more influence we’re asked to do more. At first it might seem like saying yes…
Breathing to reduce stress: Inhale Exhale Repeat
Sometimes life gets busy. When life gets busy we often overlook a basic essential: breathing. We go on…
Clean Space Creates A Relaxing Place
When we keep our surroundings free of clutter, we create a relaxing atmosphere. It only takes a few…
Boom! How To Write Dynamite Blog Posts
Do you like Hip Diggs’ blog posts? If you do, I’m going to let you in on a…
Growth: My Personal Perspective
Growth. Sometimes it’s easy to lose perspective. We get so caught up in self-improvement and productivity that we…
Happiness Is A Free Book With No Signup
Finding simple happiness is easy. This free little book can help you learn how to find happiness through…
The Success Of Thankfulness
With Thanksgiving right around the corner, many of us begin to consider the things that we’re thankful for.…
7 Reasons To Keep Walking For Exercise
How many times have you started an exercise program only to quit? How many gyms have you signed…
What I’ve Learned From Two Summers Without Internet
Could you go without Internet? How long could you stay disconnected? The Internet has become a household necessity…
How To Save Money And Add Charm To Your Home With Antiques
Minimalists or not, we all want a home that fits our personality, right? If you want to add…
21 Ways That Less Is Really More
You’ve heard the phrase, “less is more.” What does it really mean? It’s simple. Less is more. Today,…
Simplify: For A Life Less Distracted
Today’s post is a guest post by Carl Phillips. Distractions surround us, a constant tension in our day. …
5 Ways To Cut Back On Excess This Christmas
As we approach Christmas, I encourage you to be intentional about your spending. Black Friday. Cyber Monday. The…
Teaching Kids About Minimalism Without Forcing It On Them
Annie is not a minimalist. She likes stuff. Over the years, family and friends have given her enough…
Black Friday: If You Don’t Need It, Don’t Buy It!
It’s coming around again. That consumer-driven day that sends people running to buy stuff simply because it’s on…
Hip Diggs Top 10 Posts Of 2014
Hip Diggs is a relatively new site. Although the site officially started in January, 2014, it wasn’t until…
Presence Is My Forever Gift To You
The Beatle’s once sang, “Get back. Get back. Get back to where you once belonged.” Just one question: Where…
Give The Simple Gift Of Happiness
I’ve got a gift to give you. You can pass it on. It’s free. Recently, I wrote a book…
How Reading Books Changed My Life
You’ve heard that reading makes you smarter. You’ve heard that reading improves your memory. If you’re a writer,…
My Review Of The Documentary “Minimalism”
The Minimalists are living the life they preach about. I think that lends them great credibility. As one…
No Sidebar: Brian Gardner And Simple Life Design
Recently, I had the chance to chat with Brian Gardner from No Sidebar. Today, I’ll offer a short…
9 Minimalist Hobbies For Everyday People
I didn’t just wake up one day and decide to become a minimalist. It’s been a lifelong journey.…
The Minimalist Entrepreneur: The Best Business Models Are Simple
I’ve often found myself in a quandary concerning capitalizing minimalism. It seems like a contradiction. But that doesn’t…
It’s True: I Became Debt Free Overnight
I wrote this post over at my main site, danerickson.net, right after I sold my house and paid off…
4 Fears Are The Root To All Your Problems
In October, I introduced The 10 Step Challenge To Simple Living. I hope you’re taking this challenge to…
Simple Doesn’t Mean Tiny, Country, Or Off-The-Grid
Almost every time I tell someone that I write about simple living, they say something like, “Oh, I…
4 Advantages To Setting Your Own Rules
As a society, we need rules. Rules help to keep things in order. They keep people from harming…
Presto! 3 Simple Tricks To Make Time To Blog
I blog. I used to blog a lot. I’ve cut back, but people still ask, “How in the…
Have Yourself A Simple Little Christmas
Hip Diggs wishes you a simple little Christmas. Don’t make things too complicated You know what’s really important:…
How Joining The Crowd Will Actually Hold You Back
I keep track of a few bloggers. Leo Babauta, Joshua Becker, Jeff Goins, and Michael Hyatt are a…
Gain Simple Confidence Through Nonverbal Behaviors
If you’re like most of us, you’ve struggled with confidence at times. But what if I could teach…
4 Ways To Gain Momentum On Your Minimalist Journey
Living a simple life is a goal. It’s also a daily habit. Goals and habits can be hard…
The Future of Hip Diggs and a Warning to Bloggers
I operate a few websites. My main site is danerickson.net. I have a poetry site called Cowboy Zen.…
Finding Peace Between The Extremes
Sometimes I find myself questioning my own sincerity in regard to minimalism. I feel like I don’t quite…
5 Healthy Steps To Purge Emotional Clutter… Forever
Letting go of material belongings is one way to live simple. Still, it does you no good to…
Find Freedom Through Goal Setting
The year’s more than half way over. How are you doing on reaching your goals? Have you uncluttered?…
4 Reasons To Forgive Your Enemies And Yourself
When I was a kid, I was the victim of an extreme religious cult. I’m not sure my…
Just Because It’s Free, Doesn’t Mean It’s For Me
Back in my 20s, I had a good friend and neighbor named Larry. Larry was a nice guy,…
Dumbing Down The Internet For The Masses
There’s something dumbing down the Internet. Most bloggers use it. I’m guilty of using it. Unknowingly, all of…
3 Reasons You Need More Downtime In Your Life
Downtime is important. We get so busy that we forget that simple truth. We weren’t made to be…
Drive Safe: 4 Ways To Keep Your Car Distraction Free
I know some minimalists don’t have cars. That’s okay. But for those of you who do, I encourage…
Stop Dreaming And Start Doing Today
Today’s post is another short excerpt from my free ebook, Get Back To Where You Are: Finding Yourself…
A Downsizing Story: It’s A Journey For Life
Today’s post is a guest post by Lee Ann Bisulca. The car was packed to the gills, and…
What Is A Moderate Minimalist?
For all intents and purposes, I’m a minimalist. I aspire to live with less stuff so that I…
It’s As Easy As One Less Teaspoon Of Sugar A Day
Have you ever tried to lose weight? It’s not always easy. We’re creatures of habit. In order to…
7 Strategies To Limit Your Use Of Technology
A few weeks ago I announced my Live Simple membership program for 2017. However, I’ve since decided to postpone. Why?…
Hip Diggs And Zen Habits: Similar, Yet Different
A few years ago on my danerickson.net blog, someone told me that my writing was similar to Leo Babauta’s…
Writing Secrets: Learn What Keeps Hip Diggs Going
If you’re a writer, you’ve likely heard all sorts of tips about how to write. Words like focus,…
Why I Write About Writing At Hip Diggs
Hip Diggs is a blog about simple living and minimalism. You’d expect posts about getting rid of clutter,…
The War Of Art: A Short Book Review
I don’t do reviews often. But recently I read a book I’d heard a lot about: The War…
3 Ways The Walking Life Could Save Your Life
Walking is my go-to exercise. You can walk anywhere, from home, at work, or even when you travel.…
Victim Mentality: Blaming Outside Forces For Our Problems
Poverty is a problem in America. Sometimes people live in extreme poverty due to circumstances or forces beyond…
The Value Of Music, Art & Travel: It’s Not Always About The Money
Before you swear off all material possessions, stop and consider value. Each item we buy has value, some…
How Taking A Vacation Saved My Life: And How It Could Save Yours
It might seem like a strange time of year to write about vacationing. Not really. A vacation might…
Uncluttered Spaces: A 7-Step Program To Get Rid Of Crap, Once And For All
Have you ever walked into someone’s house and thought, “What is all this crap?” They have piles of…
Two Burning Questions About Minimalism: Cleaners and Colors
Over the last five years I’ve received a lot of questions about minimalism. Before I close shop here…
Why You Should Be More Tolerant Of Clutter
Decluttering seems to be the trend the last few years. I’m not a fan of clutter. I like…
All Things Within Reason: A Poem
Occasionally, I like to include a bit of my poetry at Hip Diggs. Today, I share a poem…
The Waiting and the Purging
The inspection is completed. We’ve negotiated a price. The appraisal is done. A new apartment is secured. Now…
The Simple Gift Of A Shaker Hymn
Today’s post is a guest post by Jackson Pryor. Freedom is a gift, a blessing even. I can…
The Big Lie You’ve Been Repeatedly Told About Clutter
Like many of you, I don’t really like clutter. As a kid I liked to keep my room…
The Freedom That Comes With Tiny House Living
Today’s post is a guest post by Rose Burke from the Tiny Society. Tiny houses have significantly grown…
Everything Is Temporary, Especially Your Stuff
I’ve been thinking about what might happen to Hip Diggs if I were to die today. It would…
Tax Return Season: What to Do with Extra Cash
If you want to live more simply, what you do with extra money is important. In my own…
Taking Minimalist Photos
I love taking minimalist photos. There are many ways to create minimalist art. Today, I’d like to focus…
Taking Care Of The Things You Already Have
You don’t need shiny new modern things to be a minimalist. In fact, as long as what you…
Table Lamps: They’re Just Another Form Of Clutter
Over the years I’ve owned a few table lamps. I’ve also got rid of a few table lamps.…
The Simple Art Of Knowing How To Not Give A Fart
Did you know that most of our stress is self induced? I think this might be especially true…
Change Is Slow: Stop Stressing Out
At the beginning of the year I said that my biggest goal was to reduce stress. How’s that…
5 Ways To Stay On Track With A Healthy Lifestyle
It’s so easy to get off track with a healthy lifestyle. But getting off track isn’t the end…
Start Commuting To Work By Bicycle In A Few Simple Steps
Since my 20s, I’ve been an avid bicycle commuter. There have been times and seasons in my life…
Spiders, Snakes, And Bees: Why Not To Fear These
How many times have you been around someone who suddenly shrieks in terror? When you ask them what’s…
How Minimalism Opens Space For God
Letting go of material belongings creates space for God. Clearing your life of excess creates space for God.…
Sold: Half Of My Musical Instruments
I’m passionate about making music. I’m a singer-songwriter and I play a bunch of instruments. I love music.…
4 Reasons To Simplify Your Social Media
Do you spend too much time on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram? Everybody has to make decisions about how…
Smart Income: Why I’m Rethinking Selling My Home
I’ve written a couple posts on the downside of being a homeowner. But an old friend on Facebook…
Slow Blogging And Simple Living
One way of sticking to your goals is to write about the journey. I believe we should write…
Why I Slashed My Facebook Friends By 80%
The Facebook world is not the real world. I remember when I first joined Facebook. It was fascinating…
Simplism: The Politics Of Simple Can Change The World
I don’t like to talk politics on Hip Diggs, but I believe we can make a strong political…
6 Ways To Simplify The Holidays
The holiday season is almost here. You’ve probably noticed that most major department stores already have their Christmas…
9 Simple Solutions To Eliminate Clutter From Your Home
It’s been awhile since I’ve posted about clutter busting. I don’t care how minimalist and committed you are,…
Simple Journey: Moving Into The World Of Documentation
When I first started Hip Diggs, I told you that I was starting the site as a way…
Simple Goal Setting: Let’s Start The Year Right
Each year, I set a few goals. I prefer simple goal setting rather than going big. Often, I…
Yikes! I’m Putting the For-Sale Sign Up this Week
The moment of truth is now very, very close. I’ve signed the contract with my real-estate agent, she’s…
Writing: 6 Methods To Beat Fear And Follow Your Dream
So you want to write a book? What’s holding you back? Chances are high that you make one…
Discover The Value Of White Space
Understanding the concepts of simple living lends itself well to many areas of our lives. Take writing, for…
What If We Stopped Saying What If?
It’s a phrase that’s been used as long as we could speak: What if? It can be used…
Want Simple? Learn To Think Like A Dog
Have you ever wondered what a dog thinks about? Does a dog worry? Does a dog wonder? Perhaps,…
Walking And Biking: Save Money And Get In Shape
How far do you live from your work? How far do you live from the closest grocery store?…
Visualize Less To Reach A Place Of More
Have you ever visualized yourself living in a small, simple, minimally furnished home? I sure have. And when…
3 Ways To Deal With An Unwelcome Guest
The fact that minimalism gives us more time to spend with the ones we love is great. But…
Got An Unwanted Gift: What Do You Do With It?
Have you ever received a gift that you didn’t want? What do you do? You like to live…
Unownership
Do you struggle with clutter? Is it hard for you to let things go? I used to hold…
Undream The American Dream And Live Simple
I hear my daughter, Annie, talking about what she wants in life. She already knows the traditional American…
10 Reasons Why I’m Not Going To Create An Online Course
Back in August of 2015, I announced that I would be creating an online simple-living course. Then everybody…
Two Questions About Getting Back To Basics
We’ve been convinced that our basic needs include a plethora of conveniences. Think about your basic needs for…
4 Reasons Turning Minimalist Won’t Make You Happy
It feels to me like some folks think that turning minimalist will make them happy. But happiness isn’t…
Try The Old Try, Try, Try Again Method When You Fail
Remember that old saying, “If at first you don’t succeed: Try, try, try again. This is age-old wisdom,…
What Traveling Light Can Teach You About Minimalism
You can learn a lot about minimalism when you travel. If you practice traveling light, you’re already learning…
Travel: 8 Ways To Lighten Your Load On The Road
I travel several times a year. As a moderate minimalist, I’ve learned to travel light. You don’t have…
5 Reasons Transformable Apartments Make No Sense
Have you seen them? Those adorable little transformable apartments? You can move the walls around and create different…
Trailer Days: 6 Practical Lessons Learned Living In A Trailer
I lived in small spaces through most of my 20s and 30s. I’m talking 100-300 square feet. I…
4 Types Of Toxic People To Avoid
What do toxic people have to do with slimming your schedule? More than might first meet the eye.…
Too Little Sleep Kills The Simple Life
Do you ever work too hard, play too hard, or stay up too late? Sometimes I find myself…
4 Steps To Using Tiny Chunks To Trick Your Brain To Get Things Done
Do you struggle with getting things done? Maybe your house is more cluttered than you’d like it to…
5 Reasons To Think Twice Before You Give Something Away
This is a blog about simple living, minimalism, and decluttering. I’m supposed to be ruthless about letting stuff…
The Minimalist’s Toolkit: Buy Nothing Groups
Note: Today’s post is the last in a short series of guest posts at Hip Diggs, by Emily…
The Creative Side: The Other Dan Erickson Blog
Are you creative? If you are, you’ll love The Creative Side. I believe that simple living and creativity…
Thanks Give Away: 5 Ways To Help Others This Thanksgiving
When was the last time you gave something away? When was the last time you intentionally helped those…
Tending The Garden Of Your Soul
One of my goals for 2016 was to plant and grow a bigger garden. I was off to…
Tea For Me: 4 Reasons I Almost Quit Drinking Coffee
A little over a year ago I stopped using sugar in my coffee. A few months later I…
5 Ways To Tame The Savage Beast Of Want
Can you tame want? Over the years, I’ve bought many things that I don’t really need. I’m sure…
Taking Responsibility For Our Own Journey
I know we’re not all dealt the same cards. And I understand that there are a lot of…
Take The Hip Diggs’ Vow To Put People Over Products
My daughter, Annie, recently bought a Samsung tablet with some money that she’d saved. She loves it. She…
Surviving the Home Inspection
When you sell your house, chances are high that the buyer will be getting a home inspection. After…
The Struggle Is Real: Finding My Way On This Writing Journey
At the beginning of the summer, I posted about my seasons of discontent. The premise of that post…
4 Reasons To Stop Thinking In Black And White
Do you think in all or nothing terms? Do things have to be one way or the other?…
5 Reasons To Stop Taking A Daily Shower
When I was a kid, I was the child victim of an extreme religious cult. I worked 60-80…
Stop Rushing: 7 Ways To Slow Your Schedule
Does it feel like you’re always rushing? Are meetings, appointments, commitments and family responsibilities becoming too much to…
9 Reasons To Stop Collecting Stuff
Many of us start a collection at some point in life. It starts when you’re a kid: marbles,…
7 Simple Spring Cleaning Secrets: Are You Ready To Clear The Clutter?
It’s spring again! Are you ready to clear the clutter that’s gathered all winter? It’s not always easy.…
5 Reasons To Watch Less Sports On Television
I grew up loving sports. As a young boy, I watched sports on TV almost every day. I…
Spend Smart: 5 Questions To Ask Before You Buy
In today’s consumer-driven environment it’s easier than ever to buy stuff. Most Americans buy too much stuff. Do…
4 Ways Speed Can Slow You Down In The Long Run
In today’s world it’s cool to be busy. You get praised for hustle and being on the fast-track…
Something Beyond Our Own Understanding
Since focusing on primarily writing over at my other blog, danerickson.net, I’ve been continuing to write a bunch…
Slow Changes Coming To Hip Diggs
If you follow my Facebook Page, you may have noticed some posts about changes coming to Hip Diggs.…
Slacked? 3 Steps To Get Back On The Track To Fitness
Staying active can be tricky. If you’ve slacked off on your exercise routine, know that you’re not alone.…
Skip The Madness: Ban Black Friday This Year
With the holiday season among us, here’s a friendly reminder for you to skip the madness and ban…
Simply 4 Reasons To Question Minimalist Logic
I’ve always lived simply. I was a child victim of an extreme cult. We lived simply, with only…
10 Strategies To Simplify Your Life
Does life seem too complicated? Would you like to simplify your life? There are many ways to get…
10 Things To Keep In A Simple Wardrobe
Until recently, I hadn’t purchased any new clothes for almost two years. I purposely let my wardrobe dwindle.…
3 Simple Lessons On Minimalism From A Day At The Beach
When I was kid, our family lived a couple of miles from the Atlantic Ocean. Through my teens…
Simple Is As Simple Does
When I was younger I had great expectations and dreams. I wanted to be a rock and roll…
This Year’s Simple Healthy Living Plan: It’s The Same As Last Year’s Plan
Do you want to live a more healthy lifestyle? Have you tried to lose weight only to find…
How God Has Made My Life More Simple
I don’t wave my faith around like a flag. But occasionally I like to give credit where I…
I’d Rather Serve 1,000,000 People Than Make $1,000,000
When I first started blogging back in 2011, I wanted to make $1,000,000 as a blogger. But my…
Taking a Week of Rest and Relaxation
It’s been a long summer already. Moving wore me out. I’m ready for a week off. We’ll be…
5 Simple Steps To Reduce Clutter
The first thing you need to decide is simple: what is you acceptable level of clutter? Many minimalists…
The Problem With Rearranging Our Stuff
I’ve always been one to like change and variety. So once in awhile I’ll rearrange things in my…
Real Love Is Not A Complicated Thing: A Valentines Day Poem
“Why does love have to be so complicated?” You’ve likely said, thought, or heard someone else say those…
From Rags To Stuff To Intentional Simplicity: My Continuing Journey
I grew up poor. My family had little money. My dad was the pastor of a small-town church.…
A Photo Tour Of My Moderately Minimalist Living Room
I don’t live in a tiny house with less than 100 things. I do try to keep my…
Be Original: Stop Following Trends And Copying The Masses
I’ve been blogging and writing for years. I’ve noticed something. The popular bloggers set the trends. The lesser-known…
Numbers: A Musical Journey In Simplicity
I’m excited about my latest music project, Numbers. I don’t usually post much about my creative work at Hip…
Nothing Or Everything?
Occasionally, I like to write a creative piece at Hip Diggs. If you’ve been over to my personal…
Why I Don’t Make New Year’s Resolutions: Making Positive Change A Daily Habit
It’s almost 2016! Have you made any resolutions? I haven’t and I won’t, unless you consider my annual…
Never Forget Family, Even If They’re Not Blood
Every year about this time I go to a family reunion. But it’s not really my family. They…
Myth: Find Your Fantasy Self And Declutter Like A Rock Star
I’ve seen some posts about decluttering your “fantasy self.” The premise goes something like this: All the unused…
Moving Day Is Here and We’re Ready
I just got word today that our apartment will be ready tomorrow. I’ve also learned that the house…
6 Reasons To Practice Moderate Minimalism
Sometimes minimalism can be taken to extremes. If your quest to live minimally keeps you awake or cold…
How Can We Be Minimalists In the Midst of a Homelessness Crisis?
This morning as I walked my old dog Shep, I saw a lady in a wheelchair lecturing herself.…
I’m Not A Vegan, But I Love The Minimalist Vegan Blog
I eat meat. I’m sorry if that offends some of you, but I was raised in a blue-collar,…
The Minimalist Mixtape, By Dan Erickson
You might not know it, but I write music as wells as words. Earlier this year, I made…
Make Space For Those In-Between Places
Do you take on too many responsibilities and projects? I’m guilty of doing that. I forget to make…
Look To Nature And Learn: Renewal Is Closer Than You Think
When I go through periods of life when I feel like I’m not growing, I just look to…
4 Ways To Make Less Trips To Town From Anywhere
Minimalism is simple. You just get rid of stuff and live with the bare necessities. But your needs…
Less Screen Time Equals More Dream Time
What’s so great about minimalism? Why live a simple life? Why do we say less equals more? More…
How Living With Less Leads To Getting More Done
Do you have dreams? Are there things in life you want to accomplish, but you never seem to…
Lasting Change Is Within Your Grasp
Do you desire lasting change? Have you tried to declutter only to find yourself buried in stuff? Have…
Keep Calm And Practice Relaxation Today
Learning how to relax is like anything else. You have to practice. It’s especially hard to keep calm…
Joy Doesn’t Come From Things
Today’s post is a guest post by Karen Trefzger. Asking “Does it spark joy?” may not help you with…
How To Downsize For Life
Decluttering and downsizing are not quick fixes. Becoming a minimalist overnight isn’t very practical. I look at minimalism…
Hip Diggs Will Always Choose A Soft Approach To Sales
Have you ever been overwhelmed by the sales tactics of some blogs? Popup screens, signup boxes, sidebars filled…
Glance Back And Learn From Your Past: Don’t Strain Your Neck
Living in the past won’t get you anywhere. Learning from your past can help you take the next…
Don’t Let The Ghosts Of Yesterday Haunt You Today
Halloween can be a fun holiday. Even so, sometimes we have ghosts in our lives that are all…
5 Reasons To Take Your TV Out Of Your Living Room
I took my TV down earlier this year. I’ll admit, I didn’t leave it down. I have an…
My Failed Attempt: I Should Have Known Better
Have you ever done something that you knew you shouldn’t have? Of course you have. We all have.…
Uncertainty: How To Face The Unknown And Move Forward
Uncertainty always lingers. It doesn’t matter how sure of ourselves we are. There will always be things that…
Two Simple Rules To Exercise Now… Without A Program
Everybody thinks they have to join a gym or start a regular running routine to stay in shape.…
Ethics Applied To Minimalism: Why I Turned Down Money
If we claim to be minimalists, there are certain ethical guidelines we should follow. I’ve never been one…
Eating Out Is Not Always A Bad Thing For Busy People
We’re told that we shouldn’t eat out very often. I’ve even suggested that a time or two at…
10 Reasons I’m Looking Forward To Downsizing My Home
I’m currently living is a modest three-bedroom home. I found it for a great price in a good…
5 Reasons To Join The Discussion At Hip Diggs
On New Year’s Day, I opened up the discussion at Hip Diggs. I believe that discussion is an…
The Disciplined Art Of Less
Do you keep a schedule? Are you able to get done what you want to get done? Being…
Happy Birthday: Hip Diggs Is One Year Old
One year ago today, I wrote what I consider the first Hip Diggs’ blog post. It was a…
The Dichotomy Of Blogging About Minimalism
I’ve been blogging about simple living and minimalism for a few years now. It’s something I’m passionate about.…
Dad: A True Minimalist Long Before It Was A Thing
Today would have been my dad’s 83rd birthday. He passed away in 2010. I never recognized it growing…
Creative Minimalists Know When To Kill Their Own Babies
Just to get one thing straight from the start, I’m not talking about human babies. I’m talking about…
4 Confessions Of A Closet Consumerist
I try to keep life pretty simple. I live in a modest home and drive an economical car.…
Choose Quality: Cheap Crap Costs More In The Long Run
We all work hard for our money. So sometimes it’s hard to part with it. Often, we find…
Chill Out! Nothing Is Written in Stone, but Our Own Death
I rediscovered the other day that some people tend to jump to conclusions, judge, and get angry about…
Changing Seasons, Changing Themes
At the end of 2018, I was done posting regularly at Hip Diggs. And I am. However, I…
Buyer Beware: It’s Okay to Just Say No
Recently, I made an offer on a little condominium. It needed some new paint and carpet, but it…
Hosting Your Own Boxing Party and Eliminating Excess
A few years ago, I learned about something called a boxing party. It’s a simple concept. You box…
5 Active Cures For Writer’s Block
I write. Do you? Hip Diggs isn’t a blog about writing, but since writing is something I do,…
Binge: The Problem With The Occasional Binge
Part of simple living is doing all things in moderation. But it’s easy to get swept up with…
Minimalism Makes Life More Beautiful: SlideShare
As a blogger, I experiment with different forms of media. I work to create beautiful things. Today, I…
All Packed up and Nowhere to Go
I’ve been getting my house prepped for selling. Honestly, it’s still my intention to sell my house. Yet,…
Act Fast: Sometimes It’s Important to Make Quick Decisions
If selling my house has taught me one thing, it’s that sometimes we have to act fast. When…
8 Books Written By Dan Erickson
Earlier this year I started adding more posts about minimalism in photography, landscape, and music at Hip Diggs.…
5 Reasons To Stop Caring What Others Think
Remember when you were in high school? You had to buy the right clothes to fit in. You…
3 Lies You’ve Been Told About Relaxation
How do you find relaxation? Do you listen to soothing music. Do you drink hot tea? Do you…
13 Things I Hate About Being A Homeowner
I bought a house about 4 years ago. People told me that it’s a smart investment. They said…
Too Much Is Too Much, Even For Thanksgiving
I’m writing this post at the risk of sounding unAmerican. Why do we eat until we can barely…
A Minimalist View On The Value Of Time
As a minimalist, I’m wrestling with the problem of time. How does time fit into the minimalist equation?…
On Minimalism, Blogging, And Being Human
I’ve been blogging for several years. I’ve been a minimalist most of my life. It took me awhile…
Don’t Buy Into The Fear Of Not Enough
How many times have you bought something without truly needing it? How much more do you have than…
Shep: My Dog The Minimalist
We can learn a lot from our canine friends. I’ve learned a lot from my dog, Shep. I’ve…
5 Reasons To Shun Fundamentalist Thinking
I was much more conservative when I was younger. I thought the world and my religion had a…
The Secret Behind Minimalism Is Simple
If you follow Hip Diggs, you know I struggle a little with the term minimalist. Sometimes, I feel…
Routines Are Holding You Back From Achieving Greatness
How do you achieve something? You work toward it. You earn it. Right? And routines are made to…
Quiet Your Mind For 10 Minutes A Day
I don”t really meditate in the traditional sense. But I make a point to quiet my mind every…
Practice Is The Key To Creating Significant Change
Have you tried to create change in your life only to fall short? Maybe you want to live…
5 Reasons To Plant A Garden At Home
When I was a kid, I worked on a farm. Part of my experience included planting and maintaining…
Choose Personality Over Products: You Are Not What You Own
How many times have you met somebody who lives by the things that they own? Many people try…
One Less Thing: What Can You Let Go This Week?
Today, I want to encourage you to let something go. Actually, I’d like to encourage you to let…
Why My Next Home Will Likely Be a Rental
All my life I was told that I should buy a house. So in 2013, I did. Oh,…
The Most Minimalist Outdoor Exercise You Can Do
I love to hike. Getting out in nature is always good for the body and the mind. I…
6 Morning Routines That Will Keep Your Life Simple
One way to keep life more simple is to start each day out right. If you have morning…
7 Ways Money Matters Keep You From Living Simply
I’ve been thinking a lot about money matters lately. No, I’m not thinking about how I want to…
Modern Conveniences Are A Healthy Part Of Living Minimally
Just because we want to live simply doesn’t mean we should swear off all modern conveniences. Whether it’s…
The Minimalists’ First Podcast; Hip Diggs’ Response
Last week, The Minimalists, Joshua Fields Millburn, and Ryan Nicodemus, started a podcast. Today, I’ll do a short…
Minimalist Music: One More Shot of Anderhill
Just because I’ll be done posting at Hip Diggs soon doesn’t mean I’ll quit making minimalist music. I…
What I Keep In My Minimalist Bathroom… It’s Not Much
I’ve been in people’s houses who have cluttered bathrooms. They keep shelves full of stuff in the bathroom.…
Minimalism Is My Sleeping Giant and It’s Stirring Again
Lately, something has been stirring deep within my soul. There’s a sleeping giant that is waking. The giant…
Minimalism Is An Art, Simple Is A Lifestyle
You know, I’ve just about had enough of people calling minimalism a lifestyle. It’s not. Minimalism is an…
Live Your Dream: It’s Not About The Future, It’s About Now
Do you want to write a book? Do you dream of having a bestseller? Do you want a…
12 Months To Live Simple
It might seem like an odd time to start talking about the new year, but that’s exactly what…
Letting Go Of Things We No Longer Want Or Need
Letting go can be hard. Whether it’s something we once considered a prize possession or whether it’s a…
8 Ways To Be Less Busy All Year Long
When things get too busy, we get stressed. Stress is unhealthy. I’ve been evaluating my own life lately.…
Landscape As Minimalism In Photography, Art, & Music
For me, the biggest draw toward minimalism is space. Yes, I believe in owning and doing less. But…
Karate As A Form Of Discipline For A Simple Life
You may not want to hear this, but minimalism and simple living take discipline. Have you ever wondered…
Why You Should Keep A Journal For The Journey
I’ve been keeping a journal in one form or another for the last 30 years. It’s made me…
Internet Dating: 5 Things I Hate About Online Relationships
I’m a single guy. So I’ve tried out a couple of the free Internet dating sites. I’ve started…
International Minimalism: Just A Little Less
The majority of Hip Diggs’ visitors come from the United States, but I’ve noticed an international trend toward…
In All Things Be Thankful
If you’ve ever followed my other blog, www.danerickson.net, you know that I write in many genres. I write…
How To Discover What’s Really Important In Your Life
Have you ever taken time to ask yourself what’s really important in your life? Is it your job?…
Hurry Up Already: The Problem Of Impatience And Excess
I’m not the most patient person in the world. I struggle to want things to happen quickly. Whether…
Household Peeve #5: Spring-Loaded Screen Doors
Let’s add screen doors to the list of household items I can do without. I’m constantly annoyed with…
Why The Happy Medium Is Better Than Either Extreme
I don’t like to have too much stuff. But I don’t like to not have what I need…
Why We Don’t Feel Guilty About Child Slave Labor: And Why We Should
How many things have you purchased that are made in China or one of several other countries that…
Just Call Me The Grinch Of Halloween
It’s that time of year again. Time for the marketers to sell you cheap Chinese products that your…
Gratitude: Discover The Power Of Being Thankful
Sometimes, at the end of a day of teaching, after all the students leave, I take a moment…
5 Ways To Give Love This Christmas Season
Material gift giving is okay within some given limits. Still, a better gift is simply to give love.…
From Games To Bookstores: The Future Is Wide Open
A couple of weeks ago I announced that Hip Diggs will not be creating an online course for…
Free Hip Diggs App At iTunes
A few weeks ago I got an email that got me so excited I had to read it…
Focus: The Power Of One Thing At A Time
There’s a reason some people accomplish more than others. It’s simple: ultra-productive people have learned the ability to…
Kick Fear In The Butt And Write Like You Really Mean It
I used to be nervous about putting my writing out in public. But I learned to become fearless…
Enough
It’s not about who can get rid of the most stuff. It’s not about living with less to…
Empathy: We All Walk A Different Path
One reason I sometimes dislike labels, like liberal, conservative, and even minimalist and traditional, is that they separate.…
5 Ways Writers Can Embrace Imperfection
Do you get frustrated when you don’t meet your own expectations? Do you aim for perfection? Writers often…
Digitize Your Collections And Save Space
Hip Diggs promotes listening to music and reading books. They’re both creative and intelligent ways to spend your…
You Deserve Less So That You Can Have More
Recently, someone told me that I deserve my 3-bedroom home, my newish car, and my middle-class lifestyle. They…
5 Daily Tasks To Keep Your Home Uncluttered
If your house gets cluttered quickly, there’s an easy solution. It’s not hard and it only takes a…
5 Reasons To Keep Your Sense Of Curiosity
Have you ever noticed how curious kids are? They always want to know how things work. They endlessly…
Creative Exercise: Physical Variety Can Make You Happier
Have you ever started an exercise program only to burn out and quit? I think it’s happened to…
Conversation Is Coming To Hip Diggs
In order to get more people thinking about simple living and minimalism, we need to keep the conversation…
Container Homes: Do They Really Make Sense?
If you like tiny houses, you’ve probably seen homes made out of shipping containers. It seems like a…
Coffee Tables: 5 Reasons I’ll Never Own One
When I grew up it was traditional to own a coffee table. Most people kept their coffee tables…
My Only Christmas Post This Year
Many bloggers write holiday posts. I’m no exception. I usually write several posts each year about keeping Christmas…
Stop Chasing Happiness And Choose Contentment
Are you happy? Really happy? Or does it seem like you spend your life chasing happiness? “If you…
Carless: What I Learned From 10 Years Without A Car
Driving a car is overrated. Sure, it’s convenient. It can be fun. Sometimes it’s necessary. I went 10…
Buy Another House? 11 Things I’d Look For If I Do!
I bought my first house about five years ago. I like my house, but if I had it…
How To Bust A Bad Habit And Start A Good One
Do you have a bad habit you want to bust? Whether it’s chewing your nails, smoking, drinking, or…
5 Reasons Every Writer Should Start A Blog
Are you a writer? Have you started a blog? I believe that every writer should start a blog.…
Would You Leave A Big Mess If You Were To Die Today?
What if you were to die today? How much stuff would you leave behind. How much unfinished business…
Beat The Grief Of Letting Stuff Go In Five Stages
Do you struggle to get rid of stuff? Even if it’s something you never use? Grief is something…
8 Ways To Be More Authentic
We all know people who intentionally live life to the fullest. They’re authentic. They’re not afraid to speak…
3 Unexpected Things A Psychiatrist Prescribed Me For Anxiety
A few years ago I was in the midst of a divorce and custody battle. I was a…
Analyzing The Mindset Behind Clutter
If you want to start on the path to being clutter-free, you need to understand why you have…
A New Diagnosis On Life: It’s In My Blood
We hear the term, “It runs in his blood,” all the time. Whether we’re talking of sports, music,…
7 Minimalist Interior Design Ideas For Everyday People
You’ve seen the pictures. Minimalist interior design porn. You know what I’m talking about. The million dollar homes…
6 Simple Writing Drills: Writing That Gets You What You Want
As a blogger, I like to share what I’ve learned about writing. As one who lives simple, I…
6 Steps To Minimalism: Hip Diggs’ Simple Guide For Beginners
So you’ve heard about this thing called minimalism and you think it’s right for you. But you don’t…
5 Reasons To Start A Self-Hosted Blog
Starting a blog is exciting. Owning your blog is even more exciting. There are different ways to start…
5 Reasons I Prefer Apartment Living Over Homeownership
We’ve been in our new apartment for about six weeks now. That’s long enough to make some evaluations…
5 Promises: Reviewing My Successes And Failures Of 2015
At the beginning of 2015, I made 5 promises. I posted five simple goals for the year. Today,…
4 Ways Gratitude Makes Life More Simple
It’s the time of the year when we celebrate thankfulness. We’ve been told throughout our lives that having…
25 Reasons To Stop Fearing Change
We often fear change. But we shouldn’t. Taking chances and facing change head on will make you a…
21 Reasons To Stop Fearing The Unknown
Have you ever chickened out on something you really wanted to do? Were you afraid of unknown outcomes?…
16 Simple Living Tips For The Rest Of Your Life
Another year is just around the corner. Everybody is busy making New Year’s resolutions. I’m not big fan…
14 Years Later: My Old Filson Coat
In 2005, shortly after my daughter was born, I decided to buy myself a nice coat. I drove…
14 Days To Start A Simple Lifestyle Habit
If you want to live more simply, you have to create new habits. Habits are created over a…
10 Beautiful Outcomes To Living Simply
Simple living has it’s rewards. So rather than pushing rules on you and suggesting that you declutter and…
Why Slow Change Is Better Than Fast Change
Have you ever been frustrated about a situation that seems to be changing too slowly? You wish things…
7 Steps To Simple Prayer And Deep Contentment
Do you believe that prayer can make your home more simple? It can. I’m not religious. This post…
The Problem Of Drift
As one who practices simple living, I’ve discovered that the need to feel in control of our lives…
5 Promises To Practice What I Preach
There are a lot of people blogging about minimalism these days. That’s good. I hope they’re all making…
Less Busyness Equals More Productivity
You might think the title of this post is a contradiction. It’s not. When we look deep into…
Why Eating In Moderation Is The Key To Healthy Weight
Have you ever gone on a diet only to fail? Have you ever tried to cut out sugar,…
6 Ways To Cut Up Credit Cards
I’ve stayed away from money posts for a reason. I’m in debt. I’m no different than most Americans,…
Buying Stuff On Black Friday Won’t Bring Happiness
The sales are on. People are rushing to get the deals. It’s the biggest shopping day of the…
7 Silly Questions About Hygiene And Simple Living
There seems to be some dichotomies involved in minimalism. Would a minimalist grow their hair long to save…
6 Simple Musical Instruments You Can Play
Music has helped me through some of the hardest times in my life. Through the years, I’ve played…
7 Steps To A Simple Calendar
Why a simple calendar? Because it’s nice to be able to relax at home. It’s good to have…
I’m Selling My House to Pay off Consumer Debt
It might sound like a drastic move, but I’m in the process of getting my house ready to…
Self-Fulfilling Prophecy And The Minimalist Mindset
Can we predict our own future? Some psychologists think we can. It’s called a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you…
I Was Rolling My Tee-Shirts Long Before Marie Kondo
For some crazy reason people think minimalism is something new. It’s not. It’s just a new term for…
Rethinking Everything: 6 Problems With Minimalism
I’m rethinking everything about my place on the Internet. I’ve been writing about simplicity and minimalism for the…
Resist Spring Black Friday and the Consumer Culture
I’m not sure how long it’s been going on. This is the first year I’ve noticed a thing…
Repurpose Old Stuff And Save Money In The Long Run
Minimalists talk a lot about giving things away. If you don’t use it, let it go. Not so…
The Rejuvenating Power Of Beautiful Places
Today, I’m writing from a beautiful place. It’s one of many beautiful places I like to visit. I’m…
Rehoming (or Fostering Out) Our Good Ol’ Dog, Shep?
I’m getting closer to taking a big step. A few months ago I announced that I was going…
5 Quick And Healthy Foods To Eat On The Go
Life can get busy. I get it. I’m a single dad with a career. But just because life…
Being Present: What To Do When You Lose Your Way
You’ve likely heard about being present. The idea is simple: Don’t dwell upon the past. Stop worrying about…
Personal Touch: Opening The Door To My Home
I’ve been blogging about minimalism and simple living for nearly three years. I’ve told you about my life…
My Patagonia WindShirt: Another Great Clothing Purchase
A couple of years ago, I wrote a post about my best clothing purchase ever. Over the years,…
Over 50 Workout: Simple, Light, And Steady
Do you need an over 50 workout? I used to hit the gym pretty hard in my 20s…
5 Simple Ways To Become More Open Minded
Minimalism isn’t for the closed-minded. It takes an open minded individual to truly embrace the idea of getting…
One Big Payoff For Practicing Minimalism
We’ve spent the last six weeks talking about how we can practice minimalism. It’s time to talk more…
It’s Okay To Own Some Things That Make Life Easier
Anything taken to an extreme is extreme. If we get so caught up with living with less that…
Go Ahead: Pull The Rug Out From Under Your Feet!
I’ve had carpet in nearly every home I’ve lived… until I bought my current place. When I shopped…
Some New Things For The New Year At Hip Diggs
When you’re creative, you’re constantly trying new things. I promote simple living, but I’m also creative at heart.…
5 Ways Nature Shows Us There’s More To Life Than Minimalism
There are a crapload of good reasons to live simple. It’s a good idea to live with less.…
My Biggest Weakness Is The Internet
Photo Credit Hip Diggs is a blog for you. It’s my goal to help you live a happier…
5 Reasons To Start Playing A Musical Instrument
Minimalism opens up room for creativity. There are many creative outlets you could choose. I choose music. Music…
Moving Forward In 2016: Watch Hip Diggs Grow
Are you moving forward in your life? Are you taking steps to live simple? We can talk all…
5 Ways To Make More Time For Yourself And Your Loved Ones
Do you ever feel like you don’t have enough time for yourself? When was the last time you…
4 Things That Are More Important Than More Money
I teach public speaking courses. When we talk about human motivators, I ask my students what are some…
Minimalist Music
Over the years I’ve come to appreciate music that has a starkness about it; music that feels like…
Minimalist Blogging: 8 Simple Tools
There are some articles on the Internet that claim minimalism is only for the affluent. I disagree. Minimalism…
My Minimalist Bedroom: 10 Tips To Rest Easy
I may be a moderate minimalist, but one room that I keep super simple is my bedroom. It’s…
I’m Going Minimalist Baby!
If you’re a minimalist without kids and you’re thinking about having kids, there’s something you should know. It’s…
Minimalism Alone Or The Loneliness Of Minimalism?
Some people say that minimalism is a lifestyle that only works for people who live alone. I somewhat…
Take The Hip Diggs’ Minimal Digital Challenge
Minimalists often focus on reducing physical possessions. What about digital devices? Should we live minimal digital? Think of…
A 5-Step Media Diet For Overstimulated Users
Too much media? It’s a common problem these days. Between TV, cable, radio, and of course, the Internet,…
The Magic Of Thankfulness And Thoughtfulness
It’s Fall. The leaves are falling. The chill of the coming winter is in the air. Thanksgiving and…
How Popular Ideas Keep Us Stuck In A Loop
I’m a musician. Lately, I’ve been doing some recording on a digital audio workstation. Think GarageBand. Somedays, I…
How Our Judgment Of Others Is A Reflection Of Ourselves
We often judge others. There are several ways we can judge a person. We can be critical of…
Jesus Was Not a Minimalist
I’ve heard and seen people claim that Jesus was a minimalist. But the plain and simple truth is…
Internal Locus Of Control, Minimalism, And Forward Momentum
If you’re truly a minimalist, you probably have an internal locus of control, at least in regard to…
Taking Action: If Not Now, When?
Last night the wind blew hard outside of my house. In the middle of the night I heard…
5 Reasons To Stop Pushing Halloween On Kids
I’m not a Jehovah’s Witness, but sometimes I think they’re onto something in regard to not celebrating holidays.…
How To Deal With A Great Loss
Have you ever suffered a great loss? Most people have at some point in their lives. You may…
5 Good Reasons To Get Up Early
Contrary to what some might believe, living simple does not mean living lazy. Most of us who seek…
The Dreaded Garage: 5 Ways To Keep The Clutter Away
One of my neighbors never parks their car in the garage. Why? It’s too full of stuff. Another…
Forgiveness: The Ultimate Act Of Letting Go
If you want to live a simple life you need to learn to let go. Minimalists often talk…
7 Ways To Deal With The Fear Of Intimacy
Do you fear close relationships? Are you afraid you might lose control of your own life if you…
A Simple 3-Step Strategy To Stay On An Even Keel
We always hear people talk about stress. We associate stress with bad stuff: depression, too much work, divorce.…
Email: 3 Quick Steps To Keeping A Clean Inbox
Do you struggle to keep a clean inbox? I know a lot of people who can’t keep up…
A Simple 5-Point Argument For Higher Education
Just because I blog about simple living, it doesn’t mean I’m a simple Simon. Living simple should not…
Why Worry Is A Waste Of Time
Have you ever struggled with worry? It can be overwhelming. Worry is like rocking in a rocking chair…
4 Reasons I Don’t Push Minimalism On My Kid
My daughter just turned 12 years old last week. She’s a great kid, but she’s not a minimalist.…
4 Things Being Dirt Poor Taught Me About Life
I grew up dirt poor. My family was on government assistance. After high school, I couldn’t afford to…
Digital Clutter: 5 Reasons For Only Having 5 Apps Or Less
The digital age is great. We have easy access to so much more information than ever before. We…
Decluttering Deep Places: Closets, Drawers, Garages
So you’ve learned to keep your home tidy. At least it looks tidy. But what about those deep…
Dealing With the Busyness Dilemma
As we get settled into our new place, it still feels like life is still too busy, too…
A Look At Hip Diggs’ Most Controversial Post… So Far
I wrote a post called, 5 Reasons The Tiny House Movement Is Doomed To Fail: And 5 Things…
How Cluttered Thoughts Lead To A Cluttered Environment
Do you ever wonder why clutter keeps creeping into your life? What if I told you it starts…
Cheers For A Wonderful Christmas And New Year
As I wrap things up for another year at Hip Diggs, I’d like to wish you all a…
Buying Less Stuff Leads To More Cherished Memories
Being frugal with our spending habits doesn’t mean we’re cheap. In fact, it’s by being intentional about the…
How To Break The Cycle Of Going Nowhere And Find A New Track
I was on the wrong path in my 20s. I worked a series of dead-end jobs. I drank…
5 Ways Borrowing Money Can Improve Your Life: Debt Is Not Always The Devil It’s Made Out To Be
Stop telling me that debt is always bad. That’s black and white thinking. There are times when borrowing…
9 Simple Rules For Writing Great Blog Posts
Is there a formula for a good blog post? Not exactly, but I believe there are some basic…
Riding A Bicycle As Transportation: Best Places To Live?
It’s January! I know it’s a weird time of the year to write a post about riding a…
Be Thankful: Make Every Season A Season Of Gratitude
What if we focused on gratitude all year long? What if we didn’t limit thankfulness to a season…
5 Prescriptions For Keeping A Healthy Diet
How many fad diets have you tried? Did they work? I’m not a fan of diet plans. I…
America: Addicted To Fast Food And Sugar
I’m guilty. Although I’ve tried to eat healthy for the past several years, I still eat fast food…
Al McCullough On Selling All Your Stuff
Al McCullough, and his wife Shelly, made a bold move a couple of years ago. They sold almost…
7 Reasons To Practice A Creative Hobby: Get Started Today
I’m a musician, a writer, an amateur photographer, and an artist wannabe. Do you notice anything about these…
7 Favorite Books On Simple Living
Reading has been an essential part of my quest to live more simply. Great writers can tell stories…
5 Simple And Free Ways To Stay Active
Although I like to exercise regularly, I don’t use a club or create an expensive routine to stay…
5 Successes And Failures Of 2016: Lessons Learned
Another year has come and gone. The years sure seem to fly by, don’t they? I like to…
5 Questions To Decide If It’s Time To Let Something Go
Whether it’s stuff, a relationship, or a job, there comes a time when we need to let go.…
5 Benefits Of Taking A Power Nap
When I was in college, I was a regular napper. I’d find a quiet corner in the library…
12 Days To A Simple Christmas
It’s getting to be that time of the year again: Christmas. I love the holiday season, but I…
10 Things In Your Kitchen That You Don’t Really Need
Chances are good that you have more stuff in your kitchen than you’ll ever use. Recently, I went…
10 Steps To Simple Living: A Free Blog Course
I started Hip Diggs in October, 2014. The blog has grown a lot since then. Thousands of readers…
10 Minutes A Day Keeps The Clutter Away
Do you have clutter? Are your kitchen counters cluttered? Is your kitchen sink full of unwashed dishes? Is…
The Problem Of Trying Too Hard
We all seek happiness. No one sets out to live a miserable life. The problem begins when you…
A Minimalist Guide To Dealing With Negative Emotions
Minimalism isn’t just about living with less stuff. Minimalism crosses over into all areas of life. Humans are…
Minimalism Makes More Time For Love
This is another one of those topics that makes me nervous to write about. Just like finances, my…
The 7-Day Spring Cleaning Challenge
It’s spring. I’d like to motivate you to make some simple changes around your home. It’s time to…
50 Ways To Make Life More Simple
Simple living is in the little things that we do and choose not to do. We make choices…
A Simple Day Of Rest: 4 Reasons To Take A Day Off Each Week
Today’s world seems to be moving faster than ever. It’s not like it was when I was younger.…
6 Reasons To Start With A Simple Bedroom
If you’ve been thinking about trying minimalism as a lifestyle, you should start in your bedroom. Why? I’m…
Second Call For Guest Writers
A few weeks ago, I opened Hip Diggs up to guest writers. I’ve received a few submissions, but…
My Seasons Of Discontent
I might write about a variety of topics that make it seem like I have it all together.…
The One Thing That Might Save Hip Diggs
If you follow me on Facebook, you might know that I’m planning on phasing Hip Diggs out at…
Daily Routine: The Pros And Cons Of The Same Old Thing
Some people swear by routine. Some people hate routine. Like anything else, there are pros and cons to…
Resolutions Are Setting You Up For Failure Again And Again
I’ve never been a fan of New Year’s resolutions. They don’t really work. Be honest! How many times…
A Clean Slate Leads To Productivity
Minimalism does not equate to doing nothing. Living more simply and keeping your space free of clutter and…
3 Good Arguments For Not Viewing Pornography
Pornography has become very common on the Internet. Several of the most-visited websites in the world are rated…
Paperwork, Mail, Bills, Statements, Letters, And Junk
Even in today’s electronic world we still get paper mail. You might still have some old paperwork and…
Overwhelmed? 6 Things You Need To Do To Destress
Is your life stressful? Do you get overwhelmed with everything that’s going on around you? You don’t have…
4 Ways To Find The Joy In Outdoor Spaces
Spring is here and it’s time to start working in your yard, your garden, your outdoor spaces. Outdoor…
New Music: The Minimalist Mixtape 2
I’ve spent the last few weeks finishing up another music project. It’s my pleasure to introduce The Minimalist Mixtape…
5 Ways Music Can Keep You Healthy
Do you like music? Do you listen to the radio? Do you listen to music online? Maybe you…
Most Read Posts Of 2016 And What It Means For Hip Diggs
We’re wrapping up another year. Each year I like to study what posts did the best at Hip…
More Minimalist Music from Anderhill
I shared this over at my main blog, www.danerickson.net, a couple of weeks ago. I wanted to make sure…
Moderation Is The Key To Simple Living: Sometimes Minimalists Go Too Far
I gave away 80% of all my Christmas decorations last year. Did I go too far? You’ve all…
7 Reasons To Stop Using A Microwave Oven
I haven’t owned a microwave oven in more than 6 years. The last time I owned one was…
Longterm Minimalist Planning: Are You Ready?
You may not be ready to give up all your stuff and live like a monk. Each of…
Live With Less Stress In 2017 And Forever
At the end of each year, I like to create some simple goals for the following year. In…
Listening To New Music Supports A Minimalist Lifestyle
I could do many different things with my time and money. Some of those things would not be…
Less
Photo by Dan Erickson Occasionally, I write a poem at Hip Diggs. Today, the poem is more of…
It’s Sugar Season: How Can You Limit Your Sugar Intake?
Last Halloween, my daughter, Annie, had entirely too much sugar. That was just the beginning. The holiday season…
Find Lasting Peace In Every Season: It’s Something On The Inside
Do you ever struggle to find lasting peace in your life? It’s not always easy. I’m a single…
Simple Living Could Be Your Key To Happiness
What if I told you there’s a key to happiness? Would you want that key? For most people,…
Introducing Anderhill Music
As we roll into another year, I’m moving forward with music. I’ve recently developed a new moniker for…
How To Increase Your Intelligence Today
If you want to increase your intelligence, you could go to college. But there’s something else you can…
How To Become A Minimalist
So you’ve heard about this thing called minimalism and you’ve decided you want to become a minimalist. I’ve…
How Limits Can Make Your Christmas Happier
Today’s post is a guest post by Karen Trefzger. Limits Make Christmas Happier This may sound impossible, but putting some…
Hip Diggs Top 20 Posts Of 2015
Each year at Hip Diggs, I like to review the top posts of the year. This year is…
Hip Diggs’ Most Popular Posts Of 2017
So another year is almost complete. Each year, I like to review my most popular posts for the…
Hip Diggs’ 10-Day Uncluttering Challenge For The Brave
Are you ready to get serious about uncluttering your surroundings? If you are, you’ve come to the right…
Happy Thanksgiving From Hip Diggs: Don’t Forget To Skip Black Friday
Thanksgiving may just be my favorite holiday. Sometimes I think we overdo the food a little, but the…
5 Reasons To Get Off Your Butt And Get Into Nature
It’s the middle of the winter. You’ve got nothing to do but sit around and watch TV and…
3 Books For Simple Living
Get Back To Where You Are How To Write Like It Really Matters Books at Amazon Author Dan…
Finding The Path From Fear To Forgiveness
What do fear and forgiveness have in common? It’s simple. When we let go of fear, we can…
Finding Home Wherever You Are: It’s Never Far Away
What is home? Is it a place? Is it a state of mind? Maybe it’s both. Is home…
Fear Not: 4 Things Everyone Should Know About Fear
“Fear not.” If you’ve ever read the words of Jesus, you know this verse. “Fear not, for I…
3 Quick Fixes You Need To Give Up: Fast Food, Pornography, And God
We all have our weaknesses. I’m no exception. I’ve struggled with many things throughout life: alcohol, diet, fear,…
Empowerment: Understanding Your Locus Of Control
If you want to find empowerment, you need to begin in your mind. I’m not talking about using…
Downshifting
This is it. It’s my last regular post at Hip Diggs. That might take some of you by…
Disconnected In The Age Of Too Many Connections
We live in such a great era of communication. We have multiple ways of connecting with others. But…
Digital Music Saves Space For Listeners And Creators
CDs are fading fast. I still have a small collection and love to listen to a few select…
The Power Of Daily Writing Toward Making Positive Change
If you want to focus on change in your life, daily writing is a powerful tool. Writing can…
The Power Of Daily Reading Toward Making Positive Change
Before I was a writer, I was a reader. I read a lot. Throughout my 30s and 40s…
How Simple Living Led To Writing A Trilogy
I’ve been promoting the simple-living cause for several years now. Don’t worry, it’s not a cult. Living with…
Clutter As A Lesson In Tolerance And Refrigerator Magnets
I don’t like clutter. I make an honest attempt to keep my home and my office clutter free.…
Why Climate Change Matters Even If You Don’t Think It’s Real
Recently, I posted something about global warming on Facebook. As usual, when I mention climate change or global…
5 Simple Ways To Clear Your Space And Your Mind
Have you ever felt tense because your surroundings were too cluttered? Have you struggled to clear your space?…
A Christmas Wish From Hip Diggs
My Christmas wish to you is simple. I wish you peace, joy, and simplicity. If you’re working too…
5 Steps To Christmas Savings: You Don’t Have To Go Broke Again This Year
Christmas is fast approaching. Would you like some tips on Christmas savings? Hopefully, I’m writing this post before…
If I Had To Choose Between Writing And Music
What if you were given a choice between two things you love? I often contemplate this idea. If…
Change Things Up: Variety Leads To Happiness
A loyal Hip Diggs’ reader suggested that I write more posts about my meals. That’s not a bad…
Why I’m Buying a Lot of Stuff for Our Apartment
So I’m not really buying a lot of stuff. But for a minimalist, I’m buying too much stuff.…
What A One-Week Break From Facebook Did For My Creativity And Productivity
Social media can be a major distraction. I like to take a break from social media and the…
6 Smart Reasons To Read More Books
When was the last time you read a book? I may believe in owning less stuff. That’s smart.…
6 Arguments For Keeping Your Blog Simple
You’ve seen them. Blogs that are cluttered. Blogs with too many annoying popups. Blogs with complex writing. If…
3 Reasons To Break Away From The Tribe Instead Of Following
Bloggers like to have followers. One trend among bloggers is to call their followers their tribe. But what…
And Just Like That… I’m Debt Free
About 18 months ago, I set this crazy goal to become debt free, while working less. Today, I…
Always Changing Is Better Than Being Stuck In Place
Sometimes I feel like I don’t have enough focus. I shift back and forth from topic to topic.…
About Money: An Update On My Financial Situation
I don’t like writing posts about money. Why? Because I haven’t reached the level that I want to…
4 Big Reasons I’m Thinking About Selling My Home
“It will be great,” they said. Owning your own home builds equity and gives you more security. You’ll…
25 Links To Hip Diggs’ Favorite Blogs
Like links? Here are some good ones! Hip Diggs isn’t the only simple-living blog in the world. There…
That Evil Little Thing Called Comparison
We all desire change. For many people, that means bigger and better, new and improved. Have you bought…
Applying The Ten Commandments To Minimalism
Most of us have heard The Ten Commandments. Today’s post is twist on those commandments: Applying The Ten…
Light For The Journey Before You
For some, this is not a happy season. You may have suffered a recent loss. You may be…
The Problem Of Dwelling On The Past
Have you ever dwelled on your past? Have you let your past mistakes stop you from moving forward?…
8 Simple Ways To Find Time For Family
During the holiday season we think about bonding with our families. We should find time for family bonding…
