The SEEDS Philosophy: Intentional Minimalism for a Full Life

Guest blog by Jessica Moyer, TEDx speaker /coach /author /podcast host /founder of R.E.A.L Wellness for Women

A few days ago, I was chatting with a new friend, and our conversation turned toward minimalism. Now, minimalism often gets a bad rap…people hear the word and picture bare white walls, empty shelves, and living with nothing but a mattress on the floor. That’s not what I’m talking about.

Minimalism isn’t about living without, it’s about living with intention. It’s about cutting out what doesn’t matter so you have the space, energy, and resources for what does.

My friend shared something brilliant with me: she only spends money in three categories—Edibles (food), Experiences, and Disposables. That’s it. Simple, clear, focused.

I loved her idea, but when I thought about my own life, I realized I needed a few more categories to feel complete. So, I played around with it and came up with an acronym that’s been guiding my choices lately: SEEDS.

Because really, every dollar we spend is like planting a seed. And if we’re intentional, those seeds grow into a life that feels rich and fruitful, not cluttered.

Here’s how it looks in my life:

Self-Care

I invest in my physical, mental, and emotional well-being. That means things like health services, movement, and time out to rest. When I’m at my best, I can show up better for everyone else.

Edibles (Food)

Food is one of the purest joys of life. For me, it’s not just about filling my stomach but fueling my body well. Sometimes that’s a simple home-cooked meal, sometimes it’s a splurge on premium ingredients, and other times it’s going out to eat and enjoying the whole experience.

Experiences

Instead of filling my home with more stuff, I’d rather fill my life with moments. Travel, concerts, classes, family adventures—these are the things I look back on and smile about. They create stories, not clutter. (and they don’t take up as much closet space! 😂)

Disposable Necessities

There are always those essentials we need—like toiletries, cleaning supplies, or batteries. I try to keep this list as simple and minimal as possible. It’s not the “fun” spending, but it keeps life running smoothly.

Stewardship/Sharing

This one feels really important to me. Stewardship is about using my resources wisely—giving back, helping others, investing in causes that matter, or even just sharing with friends and family. It’s a reminder that money is a tool, and sometimes the best way to use it is to lift someone else up.

Every dollar I spend now feels more purposeful because it has a “home” in one of these five categories. Instead of mindlessly buying things, I’m planting seeds. And little by little, those seeds are growing into a life that feels simpler, healthier, and more meaningful.

Of course, this is still a work in progress. For example, right now we’re also investing in education for our youngest—that’s another E worth mentioning!

But overall, the SEEDS framework helps me check in with myself before swiping the card: Is this purchase helping me grow the kind of life I actually want?

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Do you have a framework like this for spending, or a way you keep yourself intentional with money? What would your “SEEDS” look like?