Top 14 'Mind-Expanding' Minimalist Video Essays to watch for Redefining Success on Your Own Terms
Have you ever felt like you're running on a hamster wheel, chasing a version of "success" that doesn't quite feel like your own? You tick all the boxes—the job, the possessions, the busy schedule—but a nagging sense of emptiness remains. This feeling is the quiet alarm bell of a life lived on someone else's terms, defined by consumer culture and the relentless pressure to do more, be more, and have more.
In a world saturated with noise, finding clarity can feel impossible. But what if the answer isn't adding another productivity hack or goal to your list? What if it's about subtracting? This is the core premise of minimalism, a philosophy that extends far beyond decluttering your closet. It's about decluttering your mind, your schedule, and your very definition of a meaningful life. It's about intentionally designing a life that aligns with your true values, not the ones society hands you.
To help you on this journey of introspection, we've curated a list of powerful, mind-expanding video essays. These aren't your typical self-help talks. They are beautifully crafted, thought-provoking pieces of content that blend philosophy, personal stories, and stunning visuals to challenge your perspective. Grab a cup of tea, silence your notifications, and prepare to explore what success could look like on your own terms.
1. "A Rich Life with Less Stuff" by The Minimalists
Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus are the godfathers of the modern minimalist movement, and their core message is a perfect starting point. This idea, central to their work, dismantles the myth that happiness is tied to material possessions. They share their personal stories of leaving six-figure corporate jobs, drowning in debt and discontent, only to find freedom and purpose by letting go of almost everything they owned.
The essay argues that our possessions end up possessing us. The time, money, and mental energy spent acquiring, organizing, and maintaining "stuff" detracts from what truly matters: health, relationships, passion, growth, and contribution. It’s a powerful reminder that the most valuable things in life aren't things at all.
Key Takeaway: Before your next purchase, ask yourself the question The Minimalists often pose: "Does this add value to my life?" This simple filter can radically change your relationship with consumerism and help you start living more intentionally.
2. "The Dark Side of Minimalism" by Matt D'Avella
No philosophy is perfect, and a truly mind-expanding journey requires looking at all sides of an argument. Filmmaker Matt D'Avella, known for his clean aesthetics and minimalist documentaries, bravely turns the camera on the potential pitfalls of the lifestyle he champions. He explores how minimalism can become another form of obsession, a competitive sport in owning the least, or an aesthetic performance for social media.
This video is crucial because it adds nuance. It acknowledges that minimalism isn't a magic cure for dissatisfaction. True contentment comes from the internal work of understanding your "why," not just from following a set of external rules like owning fewer than 100 things. It’s a warning against replacing consumerist obsession with minimalist obsession.
Key Takeaway: Focus on the intention behind your minimalist practices, not the rules. Are you decluttering to create mental space for your passions, or are you doing it to project a certain image? The "why" is everything.
3. "I Tried Digital Minimalism for 30 Days" by Nathaniel Drew
In the 21st century, the most invasive clutter isn't in our homes; it's on our screens. Nathaniel Drew, a creator who explores mental clarity and unconventional living, documents his 30-day experiment in radically reducing his digital consumption. He deletes social media apps, turns his phone to grayscale, and curates his information diet with ruthless intentionality.
The results are profound. He documents a return of his attention span, a deeper connection to the world around him, and a surge in creative energy. This essay isn't just about the "how-to" of a digital detox; it's a philosophical exploration of how our tools are reshaping our brains and what we can do to reclaim our focus and our time.
Key Takeaway: Conduct a "digital audit." For one week, track where your screen time is going. The results might shock you into making small but significant changes, like scheduling specific times to check email or moving social media apps off your home screen.
4. "The Art of Not Caring (What Others Think)" by Better Ideas
So much of our modern definition of success is built on external validation—the job title that impresses others, the car that signals wealth, the life that looks perfect on Instagram. This video essay from Better Ideas is a direct assault on this mindset. It argues that the single greatest source of freedom is learning to detach your self-worth from the opinions of others.
The creator breaks down the psychological reasons we crave approval and provides a mental framework for building internal validation. It’s about defining your own metrics for success and having the courage to live by them, even if no one else is clapping. This is a foundational step in designing a life that is authentically yours.
Key Takeaway: Define your "internal scorecard." Write down 3-5 values or principles that matter most to you (e.g., creativity, kindness, learning). Start measuring your days by how well you lived up to your scorecard, not the imaginary one you think society holds.
5. "Why We’re All So Anxious" by The School of Life
This beautifully animated essay from the philosophical channel The School of Life connects the dots between our modern anxieties and the cultural narratives we're fed. It posits that our anxiety isn't a personal failing but a logical response to a society that promotes meritocracy, endless comparison, and romantic ideals that are nearly impossible to achieve.
By deconstructing these societal pressures, the video offers a sense of relief. It reframes anxiety not as a malfunction, but as a signal that our values may be misaligned with the world around us. Understanding the root cause is the first step toward redefining what a calm, successful, and well-lived life can be—one that prioritizes self-compassion over perfection.
Key Takeaway: Practice self-compassion by recognizing external pressures. When you feel anxious about your career or relationship status, gently remind yourself: "I am feeling the weight of a societal expectation." This simple act creates distance and reduces self-blame.
6. "Hiking Alone in the Alps" by Kraig Adams
Sometimes, the most profound statements are made without a single word. Kraig Adams’ videos are a masterclass in minimalist filmmaking and storytelling. He embarks on multi-day solo hikes through some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes, with only the sounds of nature and his footsteps as the soundtrack.
Watching one of his films is a meditative experience. It strips away the noise and hustle, demonstrating that profound joy and a sense of accomplishment can be found in solitude, physical effort, and a deep connection with the natural world. It’s a powerful visual argument for a definition of success based on experience, presence, and inner peace rather than external achievement.
Key Takeaway: Schedule "input-free" time. This could be a walk in a park without headphones, sitting by a window with a cup of tea, or any activity where you are simply present with your thoughts and surroundings. Let your mind wander.
7. "The Egg – A Short Story" by Kurzgesagt
Ready for a full-blown existential perspective shift? This short, animated video from Kurzgesagt visualizes a story by Andy Weir. It proposes a radical idea about who we are and our relationship to every other person on Earth. We won't spoil the twist, but the message is one of profound interconnectedness and empathy.
This essay expands your mind by zooming out—way out. It challenges the ego-centric view of life and success, suggesting that how we treat others is, in a very real sense, how we are treating ourselves. It’s a beautiful, humbling reminder that our individual pursuits are part of a much larger, interconnected story.
Key Takeaway: The next time you find yourself in a moment of frustration or judgment with another person, recall the message of this video. Try to see the situation from a place of universal connection. It can instantly soften your perspective.
8. "The 'Get Productive' Trap" by Thomas Frank
In the world of self-improvement, productivity is king. We're taught to optimize every minute, to "crush our goals," and to view rest as a weakness. Thomas Frank, a guru of productivity himself, bravely questions this entire paradigm. He explores how the endless pursuit of efficiency can become a trap, leading to burnout and a life that is optimized but ultimately hollow.
He argues for a more human-centric approach, one that values deep work, creativity, and intentional rest over simply doing more, faster. This message resonates deeply with the principles Goh Ling Yong often explores—that true success is about sustainable systems and well-being, not just relentless hustle. It gives you permission to slow down and be effective rather than just busy.
Key Takeaway: Schedule "un-optimized" time in your calendar. Block out a few hours a week for hobbies, exploration, or simple, aimless rest with no goal other than enjoyment. Protect this time as fiercely as you would a business meeting.
9. "How I Quit My Job as a Doctor" by Ali Abdaal
Redefining success often means walking away from a path that society deems highly successful. Ali Abdaal shares his vulnerable and insightful story of leaving a stable, prestigious, and lucrative career as a doctor in the UK to become a full-time YouTuber and entrepreneur. He breaks down the fear, the identity crisis, and the practical steps he took to make the leap.
This video is a powerful case study in aligning your work with your personality and passions. It’s not an argument against traditional jobs, but a compelling example of what’s possible when you have the courage to question your path and design a career that gives you energy instead of draining it.
Key Takeaway: Use the "Regret Minimization Framework." Ask yourself: "When I'm 80 years old, which path will I regret not taking?" This question cuts through short-term fears and focuses on long-term fulfillment.
10. "The Real Reason We're Running Out of Everything" by Johnny Harris
To truly understand our personal consumption habits, we need to see the bigger picture. This investigative video essay by Johnny Harris brilliantly explains the complex, fragile global supply chains that our consumerist society depends on. He uses incredible visuals and clear reporting to show how our desire for cheap, fast products has created a system that is both environmentally and economically unsustainable.
This isn't a preachy video about "being green." It’s a mind-expanding look at the hidden costs of convenience. Watching it will fundamentally change the way you look at the items in your home and the "Add to Cart" button. It encourages a shift from being a passive consumer to a conscious, mindful participant in the global economy.
Key Takeaway: Before buying a non-essential item, try a 30-day waiting period. Put it on a list. After 30 days, if you still feel it will add significant value to your life, then consider the purchase. Often, the impulse will have passed.
11. "How to Romanticize Your Life" by Muchelleb
Minimalism isn't about sterile, empty lives; it's about creating space to appreciate the beauty that already exists. Muchelleb's video is a warm, gentle guide to finding magic and joy in the mundane. It’s about intentionally curating moments of beauty and pleasure in your daily routines—the way you make your morning coffee, the music you play while you work, the walk you take in the evening.
This redefines success as a measure of daily contentment, not a far-off destination. It’s a practical antidote to the "I'll be happy when..." mindset. By romanticizing your present, you learn to cultivate happiness and fulfillment right here, right now, with what you already have.
Key Takeaway: Pick one daily routine (like making breakfast) and elevate it. Use your favorite mug, put on a great song, and take three minutes to savor the experience without multitasking. This small act can change the entire tone of your day.
12. "The 30-Day Experiment" by Matt D'Avella
The idea of completely overhauling your life can be paralyzing. Where do you even start? Matt D'Avella’s concept of the 30-day experiment offers a low-stakes, accessible framework for change. Whether it's trying a new diet, a new habit, or a minimalist challenge, committing to just 30 days makes it feel manageable and less daunting.
This approach gamifies personal growth and removes the pressure of perfection. The goal isn't necessarily to stick with the new habit forever, but to gather data. Did this change improve your life? What did you learn? This empowers you to build a lifestyle brick by brick, based on your own experience, not on what someone else tells you to do.
Key Takeaway: Choose one small experiment for the next 30 days. It could be meditating for 5 minutes, waking up 15 minutes earlier, or going for a walk every day. Track how you feel. At the end of the month, decide if you want to keep it, tweak it, or ditch it.
13. "Do What You Can't" by Casey Neistat
Long before he was a daily vlogging superstar, Casey Neistat created a viral video that became a manifesto for creators everywhere. While not explicitly about minimalism, its message is deeply aligned with redefining success. The video is a powerful anthem against gatekeepers and the idea that you need permission, expensive gear, or a perfect plan to start.
The core message is to use the tools you have, embrace your limitations, and create. Success isn't about waiting for the perfect conditions; it's about taking action with what's available. This mindset liberates you from the consumerist trap of believing you need to buy the "right" equipment before you can pursue your passion.
Key Takeaway: Identify a creative project you've been putting off because you "don't have the right stuff." Challenge yourself to create a version of it this week using only the tools you currently possess. Your phone, a pen and paper, your own voice—start there.
14. "The Trap of Aesthetic Minimalism" (A Common Critique)
Our final entry isn't a single video, but a theme you'll find explored by many creators. It's a critique of the "Instagrammable" version of minimalism—the one with stark white walls, a single succulent, and expensive, brand-name basics. This aesthetic can become just another form of consumerism, where you're pressured to buy the "right" minimalist products to achieve a certain look.
True minimalist living is about function, intention, and freedom—not aesthetics. A life well-lived can be messy, colorful, and full of well-loved, functional items. This critique is a vital reminder to stay focused on the underlying principles of the philosophy: to reduce the unnecessary so you can amplify the essential. Your life doesn't have to look like a magazine to be intentional and meaningful.
Key Takeaway: Look around your home. Find an object that isn't "aesthetically pleasing" but brings you immense joy or serves a vital function. Celebrate it. This is a small act of rebellion against performative minimalism and a reaffirmation of authentic, intentional living.
Your Turn to Redefine
Watching a video is a passive act. The real transformation begins when you press pause and start reflecting. These video essays are not prescriptions; they are invitations—invitations to question, to explore, and to experiment. They are tools to help you scrape away the layers of societal expectation and uncover what a successful, fulfilling, and authentic life looks like to you.
Don't just consume this content. Use it. Start a journal. Have a conversation with a friend. Try a 30-day experiment. The path to redefining success is a personal one, built one intentional choice at a time.
Which of these videos resonated with you the most? Do you have a favorite mind-expanding essay that we missed? Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below!
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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