Black Minimalists: Kelvin Belfon
BLACK MINIMALISTS: KELVIN BELFON
I found Kelvin like I've found most of the black minimalists, combing the internet. He was featured in my first edition of Black Minimalists on the Web. Kelvin blogs about simple living on his site Going Uncomplicated and is also a speaker, coach, and recruiter. Kelvin is one of the few black minimalist men I've met and I'm honored to hold this space for him.
When and why did you start your minimalist journey?
In 2013 our family relocated to the city of Denver, Colorado. We were excited to begin a new chapter in our lives. After completing the initial walk-through of the 2-bedroom rental, I knew our new home was too small.
I thought about renting a storage unit for our overflow; but it would be an added cost and something else to keep up with.
As we were unloading the moving truck, a garbage bag full of CDs one of our moving helpers was carrying broke. Then, he made this really random, but pretty convicting comment, “Dude, have you guys ever thought about not carrying all these CDs around? Why don’t you just go digital?”
We had actually gotten rid of a lot of stuff before our relocation. We knew we were moving from a medium-sized home in the suburbs to a small townhouse in the city. Still, our downsizing wasn’t enough.
That guy’s comment did a lot for me. It was embarrassing and made me feel like a hoarder. But it also forced me to interrogate my priorities, “Why am I keeping collections of things I no longer use on a regular basis?”
Once we got everything in the house and started to unpack over the next few weeks, that guy's remark kept playing over and over in my mind. Within a few months, my wife and I started purging and our minimalism journey started.
What lessons have you learned since going minimalist?
Large families can be minimalist too. It just looks a little different. We are a family of 6! In our home we struggle to keep toys, clothing, and school papers in their proper place. The issue is not abundance, it’s organization. That can be tricky to negotiate with a 7 year old boy, a 4 year old girl, and twin toddlers who like to explore.
Keeping up a minimalist commitment can also get tricky when school flyers and the children’s wish lists start crowding in. But the benefits of minimalism are well worth the effort of doing simple things like having a meeting with the children’s teachers requesting not to receive nonessential flyers and handouts at home. So we’ve found ways to make it work for us!
Minimalism is more than decluttering stuff. Our family started minimizing the physical possessions. But in the process we also have started eliminating some debt, detoxifying our minds of self-sabotaging thoughts, removing unhealthy relationships, practicing mindfulness, eating healthier, and becoming eco-friendly.
I’ve also learned that my minimalism can help others. In minimalism one eliminates the unnecessary. This can help save time, money, and even live a healthier life. But beyond the personal benefits, practicing minimalism can help us contribute more to charity, serve others in our community or those in others countries around the world (a passion of mine!).
What are your goals in living simply?
Our family plans is to continue going uncomplicated till we reach a “comfortable” level. We also plan to become debt free. Last, I’ll like to help others simplify through education, coaching and speaking. I believe most people want to simplify, but are not sure where or how to begin.
Has minimalism impacted other areas of your life?
Oh yes it has...big time. I’m more intentional about the people I allow in my personal circle. I love to help and serve others. But in the past, I’ve had trouble saying “no” and allowed others to take advantage of my loyalty.
In practicing minimalism, I’ve learned to develop healthy boundaries and protect my family in the process.
I’ve also become intentional about caring for my body. I’m not a vegetarian…yet. But I try to eat healthier while avoiding processed foods, fast foods and so on. When possible I exercise in order to stay active.
What, if any, surprises or challenges have you encountered?
Hmmm. I have a full time and part time job. My wife is a full time PhD student. We have a 7 and 4 year old in school. And then there are our 20-month old twins who’ve become extremely active around the house. We are a busy family. Some seasons are easier than others, especially when my wife is not in class.
Ideally, we would like to be far less busy so that we have more time to relax, read, and write. But we’ve had to adjust those expectations, go with the flow, and enjoy as much time together as a family as possible. The key has been to avoid getting on a guilt trip about things. One thing remains true: It’s all about family for these minimalists!
What mindset changes have you experienced?
I was raised in the Caribbean with little personal possessions. Since relocating to the US, I’ve accumulated lots of possessions. For immigrants like me, the acquisition of things is a symbol of having a good work ethic.
Material belongings are not inherently evil. I still own a few myself. But my values have changed. I’m no longer pursuing the typical American Dream, seeking happiness in things or comparing myself to the others.
The people in my life are my priority. These are my wife, children, and close friends. People, I believe, are more important than things!
What advice do you have for someone interested in simplifying his life?
Start. Take the plunge! Make the decision to simplify. Baby steps, baby steps, baby steps. Be patient with the progress. Remember, it took years to accumulate your possessions, so it may take a while to minimize.
Avoid comparing yourself with others. There is no one way to simplicity. Everyone must find his/her own sweet spot! You are not alone. Find healthy supportive community voices like Yolanda for encouragement and inspiration.
Where can we learn more about you?
I blog about minimalism, family, relationships, travel and more on GoingUncomplicated.com
I’m also on Twitter and Facebook. Come say hi!
Anything you would like to add?
Minimalism is not the end game. It’s only a tool to help us eliminate life’s distractions. Focus on your priorities…not the methodology.
Learn more about Black Minimalism.
Black Minimalists: Nikki Terry
Black Minimalists: Nikki Terry
When and why did you start your minimalist journey?
I was born a minimalist. I also copied my Dad. His style: dress pants, white cotton V-neck t- shirt and thong toe sandals. Aside from a suit for church, this was his every day swag. I remember thinking how simple and sexy it all was. No, actually I thought it was all beautiful.
Being a minimalist is how I see things. It's a need to have a clutter-free mind. I’m a minimalist so I can understand the important things in my life. I come from a complicated childhood and often, things felt confusing and problematic. Moving out on my own, I had a difficult time navigating what my thoughts were, how to value my own time, or how to enjoy things without wavering back and forth between ‘not sure’ or ‘maybe so’. I suppose the minimalist GODS were waiting for me because moving into my first apartment, minimalism found me in the most organic way. I immediately and instinctively felt a need to have one of everything. Aside from my bed, I had one dinner tray, a small stereo, one chair, one set of flatware, and a few plates. I did have lots of bath towels ranging in hues of gray. My friends found it weird, but I thought my choices made my place ready for Elle Decor. Being a minimalist brought a lot of calm to a world that felt overwhelming.
What lessons have you learned since going minimalist?
I have learned people think in order to be a minimalist, you have to have money or be of a certain class. NOT TRUE.
I am a minimalist to the core. I don’t have a lot of money and I definitely did not come from a middle class nor upper middle class family. I believe in monochromatic interior space. I have a particular eye for clothing. I keep the interior of my car clean and free of almost everything outside of the panel board. I have a certain aesthetic that I enjoy when I dress. None of this makes me someone with money. Minimalism for me is all about emotional and mental space. These things make me happy, and calm. It creates a space for me to understand the value of who I am. Being a minimalist has nothing to do with class but has everything to do with those moments in life where there are no blinders, no noise, nor clutter.
What are your goals in living simply?
I'm an artist. My job is to recreate how I see the world. There are aspects of life that are beautiful and quiet, pretty and empty, or dark and loud. Being a minimalist helps me to see and understand these human qualities. I approach the canvas slowly and paint what I see.
Has minimalism impacted other areas of your life?
I thought to mention how minimalism has impacted my life as an artist, but then I decided to talk about the strongest impact minimalism has made on my life. How I choose my friends. I’m not saying that my friends have to be minimalist but I try to have relationships that are deliberate and without competition.
What if any surprises or challenges have you encountered?
The biggest challenge encountered as a minimalist was finding a partner who also believed in minimalism or at least understood it. Some women I have dated referred to me as ‘cheap’. Even friends called me ‘cheap’. I never saw it that way. I think of myself as fiscally savvy (smile). But seriously, I never saw myself as cheap but just a strong pull to stay true to what I enjoy. Now, my Partner, she is a minimalist too. It’s wonderful! She is just as committed to a minimalist lifestyle as me. Decorating our place is easy and fun. We enjoy monochromatic palettes and gosh, it's great having a partner who is okay with not having a television.
What mindset changes have you experienced?
Accepting some people can’t understand minimalism. They don’t get it. I don’t fuss about it. I just do my thing.
What advice do you have for someone interested in simplifying her life?
My advice is simple, go for it. If it feels right, enjoy it. If you don’t want to buy a television, don’t. If you don’t want three sets of flatware, have only one. If you want all the hangers in your closet to be chrome, have them and let them face the same direction. Whatever or however you want to simplify your life, go for it and never second guess that desire.
Where can we learn more about you?
www.orangecustard.com and www.nikkiterry.com
Anything you would like to add?
Being a minimalist does not involve snobbery. It simply involves the joys of having as close to a clutter free life as possible.
Learn more about Black Minimalism.
#BLKMINCHAT: February Recap
#BLKMINCHAT: FEBRUARY RECAP
To continue the process of building the black minimalist community, Maggi of Clueless Curl and I, decided to host our first Twitter chat using the hashtag #blkminchat to get to know black minimalists around the web and on Twitter.
If you haven't done so already, please follow us @blkminimalists to keep up with the latest happenings in the community and join our future chats.
Join us for our first twitter chat, 2/4 @ 7p. @CluelessCurl + @YolandaVAcree moderating. Get to know us. #blkminchatpic.twitter.com/Mg1VB06J7n
— Black Minimalists (@blkminimalists) January 26, 2016
Below is a recap of the twitter chat that occurred on February 4, 2016. Q refers to questions and A refers to answers.
Question #1: Introduce yourself and your blog.
#blkminchat#BlackMinimalists@YolandaVAcree@CluelessCurlpic.twitter.com/2IQJRl1b7J
— Black Minimalists (@blkminimalists) February 4, 2016
#blkminchat hello, Maggi here & I blog at https://t.co/prL2Djz3gqhttps://t.co/B4Zp7r9e20
— CluelessCurl (@CluelessCurl) February 5, 2016
@blkminimalists@YolandaVAcree@CluelessCurl I am Amber @amberpjoyner New minimalist. Currently developing own blog. #blkminchat
— Amber Posey Joyner (@amberpjoyner) February 5, 2016
@blkminimalists@amberpjoyner hello! I'm Monique and I vlog about green beauty, #brownskingreenbeauty, #BlackMinimalists
— BrownSkinGreenBeauty (@brnskngrnbeauty) February 5, 2016
@blkminimalists@YolandaVAcree@CluelessCurl A4 I'm constantly adjusting bc of the size of our family #blkminchat#blackminimalists
— Kelvin Belfon (@KelvinBelfon) February 5, 2016
Question #2: What drew you to minimalism?
#blkminchat#blakminimalists@CluelessCurl@YolandaVAcreepic.twitter.com/8h8pODxLUl
— Black Minimalists (@blkminimalists) February 5, 2016
@blkminimalists#blkminchat A2: I felt stuck in my life and started eliminating stuff to find my purpose.
— Yolanda V Acree (@YolandaVAcree) February 5, 2016
@blkminimalists@CluelessCurl@YolandaVAcree A2 complicated relationships and too much stuff #blkminchat#blakminimalists
— Kelvin Belfon (@KelvinBelfon) February 5, 2016
A2: mental and physical health. Need to keep things simple. #blkminchat, #BlakMinimalistshttps://t.co/GBojYrmVYg
— BrownSkinGreenBeauty (@brnskngrnbeauty) February 5, 2016
#blkminchat It's the lifestyle that requires shifts & changes in all areas of my life, which allows for true freedom https://t.co/txwX7XiPAp
— Amber Posey Joyner (@amberpjoyner) February 5, 2016
Question #3: What steps did you take to start your journey?
#blkminchat#blackminimalists@CluelessCurl@YolandaVAcreepic.twitter.com/ZxD7k7RpFv
— Black Minimalists (@blkminimalists) February 5, 2016
@blkminimalists@CluelessCurl@YolandaVAcree I studied and eliminated one ingredient at a time. #blkminimalists#blackminimalists
— BrownSkinGreenBeauty (@brnskngrnbeauty) February 5, 2016
#blkminchat#blackminimalist I researched looked at what I had, didn't need/want and got rid/donated them https://t.co/S6JiEmJreX
— CluelessCurl (@CluelessCurl) February 5, 2016
@blkminimalists@amberpjoyner What are the options your researching? @CluelessCurl Just curious? #blkminchathttps://t.co/gT6ePex2Uw
— JACQS ORGANICS (@JacqsOrganics) February 5, 2016
Question #4: What is your greatest challenge right now?
#blkminchat#blackminimalistspic.twitter.com/MVaRhZSCpI
— Black Minimalists (@blkminimalists) February 5, 2016
#blkminchat A4: Fear of not being consistent with it or laziness setting in. I can let inconvenience stop me too https://t.co/tSZc2ovjx5
— Amber Posey Joyner (@amberpjoyner) February 5, 2016
A4: Over doing it with the clothes shopping. I'm not over the top but can feel myself getting there. https://t.co/9Py9mcoCsN
— BrownSkinGreenBeauty (@brnskngrnbeauty) February 5, 2016
@blkminimalists@YolandaVAcree@CluelessCurl A4 I'm constantly adjusting bc of the size of our family #blkminchat#blackminimalists
— Kelvin Belfon (@KelvinBelfon) February 5, 2016
@blkminimalists@KelvinBelfon@YolandaVAcree@CluelessCurl hey :) Do any of you struggle with too much junk mail? Lol
— India Jackson (@iamindiajackson) February 5, 2016
@blkminimalists#blkminchat A4: Making sure the emotional, intellectual, and spiritual areas are being simplified.
— Yolanda V Acree (@YolandaVAcree) February 5, 2016
Question #5: What other BM events would you like to see?
#blkminchat#blackminimalistspic.twitter.com/SQ0IjcDx1R
— Black Minimalists (@blkminimalists) February 5, 2016
#blkminchat A chat with a minimalistic approach to finance, travel, and maybe go to a conference https://t.co/LpxTcnjqGq
— CluelessCurl (@CluelessCurl) February 5, 2016
#blkminchat Have you considered having a podcast or Skype/FaceTime hangout or even a dinner party? #bmcommunityhttps://t.co/grEYhsFCkj
— Amber Posey Joyner (@amberpjoyner) February 5, 2016
And more fun...
Instameet with ambassadors continuing the conversation and spreading the message #blkminchat
— JACQS ORGANICS (@JacqsOrganics) February 5, 2016
@blkminimalists sorry I'm a bit late. Lost track of time at the gym 💪💪 pic.twitter.com/uHd1I5GGCK
— India Jackson (@iamindiajackson) February 5, 2016
We'll see you next time.
Thanks for joining our first #blkminchat. Join us next time with special guest Barbara of @JacqsOrganicspic.twitter.com/dbU5DfoJug
— Black Minimalists (@blkminimalists) February 5, 2016
If you missed the chat, you can read the full conversation here. Mark your calendars for our next chat on minimalist beauty with special guest, Barbara of Jacqs Organics.
One more thing, the chat was awesome! We continued tweeting for another hour after the event was finished. It was a great bonding experience. I know that may sound corny, but the minimalist journey can be very lonely in real life. So, when you find your tribe and connect with them, it's a great feeling.
What topics would you like to discuss in a future #BLKMINCHAT? Let me know in the comments.
Black Minimalists: Pastaveia + Sean
BLACK MINIMALISTS: PASTAVEIA + SEAN
Also known as the Eco-Conscious Minimalists, meet my favorite minimalist couple, Sean and Pastaveia. I found them, where I've found many black minimalists, on YouTube. They have an informative and fun channel together and Pastaveia also vlogs about natural, eco-conscious beauty and wellness on her personal channel, Pastaveia Monique. Keep reading to learn more about their journey to simple living.
When and why did you start your minimalist journey?
Subconsciously we started our minimalist journey when we sold our home in Idaho and moved to California in the fall of 2008 - we were a dual military couple in the Air Force.
We didn’t realize there was a name for the concept of getting rid of things that had been “taking up space”, outside of decluttering and we were not very active on online at that time.
When packing up the house, we noticed boxes that had never been opened from we moved back to the states from the United Kingdom, in more than one closet and there were items with tags on them. In addition, the long list of kitchen gadgets that seemed to never end and it didn’t help that I was a huge Pampered Chef junkie at the time - you get the picture?
However when we moved to San Francisco to LA back to the Bay Area between 2011 and 2012, is when we had a huge wake up call. Moving will do that to anyone, I think. The living space(s) were smaller than our house and there was no time to “accumulate stuff”, because there was literally no room.
Once we sold, gave away, donated and threw away items we noticed we didn’t really need to replace them and only kept things that brought value and had with multiple uses, plus it makes moving so easier.
What lessons have you learned since going minimalist?
A major lesson is that we have more time to spend with each other and friends. We’re not spending the weekend “managing” our stuff ( i.e. cleaning, sorting, organizing on repeat). With that new found time, we spend most of it outdoors, especially since we live a block away from the beach. We were married on a beach and being close to water is very sentimental and calming for us both.
We have more time to connect and create and our blog and youtube channel has been a direct result from that creativity.
What are you goals in living simply?
As we talk about on our blog, we want to be able to show others that you don’t need any special tools or rituals to live simply - it’s really just a choice. We truly believe that regardless of the situation, the decision or choice you make, not ya’ family but you as an individual, will help you live a simple life. In addition we want to be able to teach our children to not fall suit to the overconsumption habits of society and what better way to do than to lead by example. It really is a journey for us because our little tiny humans aren’t even here, yet.
Has minimalism impacted other areas of your life?
Minimalism has impacted the way we consume in general — our food, clothing, healthcare, you name it. We’re more mindful of the “who/what/when/where” and how the product was made and the overall journey of the person you made it. We ask questions such as: Is the item fair trade? Organic? Ethically sourced? Sustainably made? Etc. It’s more than a fad, as some people would think, its a lifestyle and new way of living.
What if any surprises or challenges have you encountered?
The biggest surprise was and is, being perceived as the “Eco-police” by friends and family. We’re not preachy people and don’t hold judgements. We understand that everyone needs to grow and adapt at their own pace. However we’ve had friends and family apologize for not eating organic if they invite us over for a meal. We let them know we aren’t here to judge but enjoy their company and friendship - we’ve learned it has more to do with the story they are telling themselves and nothing to do with us personally.
What mindset changes have you experienced?
Less truly is more. We’ve found that our home feels larger because its not cluttered with stuff. It has given a us room to be creative and share with others via our YouTube, Blog and maybe even a podcast - we’re trying to figure out all the logistics but we’ll keep you posted.
What advice do you have for someone interested in simplifying her life?
This may sound strange but I would suggest reading a good self help book, particularly about awareness. Once you enter the realm of awareness - its no going back. You can not unlearn the connection once introduced - suppress it - yes, unlearn - no.
There are so many out there but find one that speaks to you. I personally am a fan of anything by the astute, Brene Brown and as a current graduate student in Clinical Social Work, I have a great admiration for the work she’s doing in the world. The information that she’s sharing can really be used to any part of your life, to include a minimalism journey, change in food and lifestyle overall.
Where can we learn more about you?
Our blog and please sign up for our newsletter to learn about our journey. Also we’re on YouTube and maybe we’ll be mobile in your ears with a Podcast - who knows.
Anything you would like to add?
Yes, we wanted to publicly thank you, Yolanda, for showing so much love on the subjects and showcasing all the beautiful black minimalists on the inter-webs.
Learn more about Black Minimalists.
Black Minimalists on the Web: Part Two
BLACK MINIMALISTS ON THE WEB: PART TWO
Just in time for #BHM, I'm back with another edition of Black Minimalists on the Web. It makes me happy and excited to find more and more black creatives who are minimalists and share them with you. The community is continuously growing.
Please check out and support the black minimalists below by visiting, subscribing, and encouraging them on their journeys as they inspire you.
Disclaimer: The creatives listed below, may or may not personally identify as minimalist; however, they were chosen because their content speaks to a minimalist lifestyle.
Neosha Gardner
http://createherstock.com; http://www.hasneounique.com/
“Because black girls are more than two thumbs up and a smile.” Self-described “creative minimalist”, Neosha Gardner is the founder of CreateHER Stock, a stock image company catering to black women creatives and owner and designer at HUN Creative, a brand design studio.
http://www.instagram.com/neoshaloves/
Yvonne Wallace
http://itsyvonne.com
“My simple, complicated life.” Meet Yvonne Wallace, life and career coach residing in Washington, DC. Yvonne’s mission is to “help make people wealthy, mentally and physically, from the inside out.” Her blog focuses on adding more simplicity into your life. She has “Minute Monday” features that offer simple life and biz tips along with other great resources.
When making a decision in your biz/life remember that "Everything comes from nothing." Take time to quiet your mind b4 moving forth!
— Yvonne Wallace (@itsyvonnenicole) December 10, 2015
Nikki Terry
http://OrangeCustard.com ; http://nikkiterry.com
Owner of design studio, Orange Custard and visual artist, Nikki Terry states she was born a minimalist and inspired by her father's style growing up. Native Marylander (woop woop) by way of Baltimore and currently a Brooklyn resident (where Brooklyn at?), Nikki also pursues photography. Nikki’s goal as an artist is to recreate the world how she see’s it and minimalism helps facilitate that process.
Cicely Renee
http://bougieblackblogger.com
"All class with a little sass." Carefree and magical, blogger Cicely is living the simple life and recently moved across the country to Dallas for a fresh start. Her lifestyle blog covers a variety of topics from blogging + business, relationships, food + wine, and of course, her minimalist journey.
Monday Motivation: The Art of Letting Go
Nneka Okono
http://afrosypaella.com
“To travel is to transform.” I found Nneka through an article she wrote on For Harriet about why black women should embrace minimalism. Nneka is a writer, coach, and avid traveler who lived in Spain for nine months (hence the paella). She currently resides in Atlanta and muses about life and traveling on her blog.
Honor what feels right to you. Take great care of yourself. Use your intuition to guide you through it all. I promise you'll be better off.
— Nneka M. Okona (@afrosypaella) February 6, 2016
Anekia Nicole
http://anekianicole.com
"Hippie-spirited. Open diary. Nerd." Anekia opens her diary and shares her life experiences to inspire and encourage you on your journey. I found Anekia via Twitter when she wrote about rethinking christmas and the focus on materialism.
Why Set Resolutions? Living a More Conscionable Lifehttp://twitter.com/anekianicole
What If Your Passion Doesn't Align With Your Career? https://t.co/T9SvOHvsC2 pic.twitter.com/CEf267x7Q1
— Anekia Nicole (@AnekiaNicole) February 2, 2016
Niambi Wilson
http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAZ7in3LJ-hi7lumVVxJGRw
“Peace. Love. Beauty. Be Intentional.” Niambi’s YouTube channel is one of my more recent discoveries. She is a polyglot who shares her minimalist journey, travels, beauty and natural hair tips, and relationship experiences. Niambi has lived abroad in Ecuador and the Dominican Republic. Check out her advice videos and vlogs.
Wilsar Johnson
http://www.fitnoir.com/
“Black girl gone healthy.” First off I want to say, I love the name Wilsar and she definitely lives up to her beautiful name. Wilsar's blog is all about helping you live a healthy, happy, and simple lifestyle. Check out her Instagram for more #blackgirlmagic.
https://twitter.com/callmewilsar
Go check these ladies out and don't worry, I'm already working on part three.
Also, if you know of other black minimalists not featured above or in Part One, please share their names in the comments or hit me on social media.
Learn more about Black Minimalists.
photo credit: CreateHer Stock