Harvesting Simplicity - Less is More—Even When It’s Free
- Melissa Cotton
- Sep 29
- 3 min read
Melissa Cotton is the creator of this series of posts, published monthly, entitled Harvesting Simplicity. She covers a variety of topics presented by Joshua Becker and others to help guide us all to live a more 'stuff-free' lifestyle. Just because it is free, does not mean we need to take and give it space in our lives.
I don’t wear much makeup, but occasionally I’ll buy foundation or bronzer. These purchases often come with a free promotional bag of samples, which I used to feel obligated to accept—simply because they were free. Now, I politely decline. This often surprises the sales associate, but I know I won’t use the items. The colors rarely suit me, and I don’t want to bring home things that will only create clutter. Just because something is free doesn’t mean it needs to come home with me.
In a world that constantly offers us more—more options, more stuff, more “free” things—it’s easy to fall into the trap of accepting items simply because they cost nothing. A free tote bag at an event. A sample-sized lotion at the store. A hand-me-down kitchen gadget from a family member. On the surface, these things seem harmless. But over time, they accumulate and clutter our homes, our minds, and our lives.
Minimalist living is about intentional choices. It's not just about what we get rid of—it's about what we let in.
Free items take up physical space in our homes, requiring time and energy to store, clean, or eventually declutter. They add to the mental weight of decision fatigue—where to put them, whether to keep them, how to use them. And most importantly, they distract us from the things we truly value.
Before accepting a free item, pause and ask yourself:
● Do I need this?
● Will I actually use it?
● Is this something I’ve intentionally been seeking out?
If the answer is no, politely decline. You’re not being rude—you’re honoring your space and your priorities.
This practice becomes especially important with well-meaning gifts from friends and family. It’s okay to say, “Thank you so much, but I’m really trying to keep my home simple right now.” Setting these boundaries can feel uncomfortable at first, but they get easier—and they help others understand your values over time.
Living simply isn’t about deprivation. It’s about choosing what supports your life, and gently refusing what doesn’t. Free things are only valuable if they add meaning, not mess.
Let your home reflect calm and intention—not serve as storage for unwanted freebies or promotional items. The next time you're offered something for free, remember: it may not cost money, but it still takes up space, time, and energy.
Melissa is a first grade teacher with a double major in Elementary Education and Early Childhood. She also has a Master’s Degree in Education Administration. After reading T. Colin Campbell’s book, The China Study, she stopped eating the Standard American Diet (SAD) and has been eating a nutrient-rich, plant-based diet. In December 2023, she earned Dr Joel Fuhrman’s Nutritarian Coaching Certificate. Melissa is an active member of the National Health Association (NHA).
Melissa is also the writer/creator of our 2024 blog series Exploring GBOMBS. Her love for teaching and learning will support others on their journey for optimal health and wellness.
(currently publishing monthly)
(previously published)
Be well
Stop.Breathe.Focus.Move.Flow.
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