"Do" start in the bathroom. Things are usually less emotional in the bathroom. Half used bottles, things you decided you didn't like the way they smelled, looked, or felt. So it's easier to get rid of those things. It gives you confidence to tackle the next space! "Don't" wait for the perfect person to give things to. Just load it up and take it to a second hand store, good will, or community center.
Great tips! :) I love starting in the bathroom too haha. Also, I prefer to give things to people I know instead of donating them as a first step, because that way you'll be more sure that something will get a second life. However, we shouldn't use the people we know as a donation center hahaha. So like you said, if you can't think of someone who would really love/use it, it's best not to wait
@@SimpleHappyZen There's also always online freecycle groups and posting items on FB marketplace for free if you don't know people to give things to. I've been able to avoid donating tons of stuff and make sure things are getting a second life that way. One person's trash is another person's treasure. :)
Hi Vera thanks for another inspiring video 🌻. A 'do' I've found helpful when I'm decluttering is to imagine that particular space as I'd like it to be and then remove the surplus! A 'don't' is to put pressure on yourself to do too much once you get decision fatigue xx 💖
DO play your favourite you tube videos while you are decluttering. Listening to them while you are working away feels like you have company. DON'T keep any shoes that are uncomfortable or hurt your feet. That colour top really suits you Vera. Thank you for another very helpful video 🦋
I recently decluttered my family pictures and it was a hard declutter for me. You are absolutely right….why keep 5 pictures of the same thing??? It was so hard to throw away some of those baby pictures but I did! I did keep two of those kinds as I have two children. I was amazed at the amount of “throw always” I had! It was a large box full! It felt good afterwards but it was very hard!
These aren’t really dos and don’s but, the best tips I’ve found recently are: use a BLACK trash bag for things you know you want to get rid of (not the maybe box) and for trash when decluttering. Black keeps others in your house (kids) and even yourself from seeing inside and second-guessing. The second is the 20-20 rule (it can be adjusted to suit you), if you’re waffling about an item because you might want it in the future, if it can be replaced in 20 minutes for $20 or less, just toss it. Chances are you’ll never think about it again, but if you do, you can replace it.
I like the black trash bag one. I also like it to leave my home quickly, so I don't dare look through and think "I can use that..what was I thinking?". 😆😆
One DO for me is to sell or donate the largest items first. Gives me more room to sort remaining items for sell, donate, or recycle. Another DO is to keep a box for each donation destination in my garage. As I find things to donate, I put them in the right box. When I’m running errands, I grab the donation boxes and drop them off on my errand route. A third DO is to declutter one room or area at a time. I finished my garage and am now focused on my basement.
All great tips!! Especially like the getting rid of bigger things first one. Really helps with creating more space. Like boxes and stuff. We used to keep sooooo many boxes...
Dear " Happy Zen "....even if advanced in the state of being a declutter ;) , it is wonderful to hear your tips; especially that you do it in a COMPLETE dual: do and don't! I am truly grateful for the reminders or the new ideas (that never crossed my mind) in your video!!! Spring is at the door (for us here in Quebec, Canada) and you give the taste and wants to....free our surroundings from what may make it heavy to live in!! You do so with such gentle and kind voice and advice! Thank you so much! helene :)
I love decluttering! Feels so good! Especially a good closet clean out. I recently sold a bunch of luxury handbags I've had for years that I hadn't used in awhile. I kept the ones I loved and passed on the rest ( a good chunk of my collection) to others who will enjoy! 😊 I'm not in that space in life anymore. And I don't miss them at all. Not having your possessions own you is the greatest feeling.
I love decluttering!! The one lesson I have learned over the years is not to donate things too quickly! The "maybe" basket is a really good idea! I have regretted getting rid of certain items over the years!
Thanks Vera that's a great set of dos and don'ts for decluttering newbies and minimalism veterans alike! A decluttering do that I'd endorse is knowing why you are doing it. While decluttering can be difficult it can also be exhilarating - the sense of relief, lightness and freedom that comes from saying goodbye to clutter can feel really great. Without a good sense of the broader reasons why you are doing it, it's possible to get stuck on the 'high' of decluttering itself and then feel very deflated when there's nothing left you can declutter. A related decluttering don't for me would be to perhaps avoid decluttering when you are feeling down or stressed, similar to avoiding going shopping when feeling down or grocery shopping when feeling hungry.
Thanks for the tips. I revisited this video and found them useful reminders. It's a constant battle to keep the mindset. Which reminds me Don't underestimate the emotional side of it and Do it when you're feeling in a good emotional state to start! (For me, the best is when I've got some time and it's morning, so I'm full of energy and enthusiasm!)
Great video as always! A do - my feeling is if someone gives me something I can't use or do not want is I will tell them right away so that they can either return it or keep it for themselves. A don't - when someone passes away take the time to wait (if possible) for your feelings to level out before getting rid of items. In our rush to move one, or run away from the pain, we may get rid of items we really regret later.
Love both of these tips Francine, thanks so much for sharing them! You're so cool that you're able to have that 'awkward' conversation after receiving a gift you can't use :)
I’m not sure about a ‘do’ for me, but definitely a ‘don’t’ is keep things around too long (even in a donate pile). I get too complacent and there’s the risk that someone will take an item out. Plus having a pile of stuff just really brings down the look of the room. Clutter attracts clutter.
I have to admit that because I don't drive, any donation boxes that I fill tend to sit in the hallway until one of my parents can drop it off. A unique situation I realize, and sometimes certain items do tend to get taken out... one of these days however, this rule will change! 😅
Thanks for the advice. I appreciate your effort to help us with our minimalism journey. As a teen who lives with non minimalists and started decluttering some weeks ago your channel helped me sooo much. 😘💚
Well done for starting and helping create your space the way you feel comfortable in it! Maybe you will be an inspiration to others in your home, who knows :-). But keep doing it for yourself! 💗😊
Hi. Another wonderful video. Thanks 🙏. One declutter don’t is to never declutter when you are in a intense mood, either good or bad. And one declutter do, is to imagine the space you are decluttering as if it is already settled.
Thank for the great decluttering tips! I recently told a family member “no more gifts” bc I always end up decluttering the gifts. I think he was relieved and asked about restaurant gift cards we would like instead. 🎉
This isn't really a decluttering idea, but an idea about how to end up with gifts you want-a preemptive strike, I guess. A couple we know recently told us how they tackle gift-giving for each other at Christmas. First, several weeks before Christmas, they literally exchange the same amount of money: she gives him so much, he gives her the same back (the amount being predetermined). Then each of them goes out and buys what they want. Here is the part we thought interesting and fun: they wrap up their own gifts and put them under the tree. On Christmas morning, they open the other person's presents. So there's still a surprise element ("I never would have thought of buying that for you", etc.), and they both have gifts they will enjoy. We were so taken with this idea, we've decided to try it this year.
@@duncanmcgregor4973 I think it's meant to be a ritual more than anything; it replaces the actual gift-giving part. We skipped it last year and went straight to the shopping 😀
Definitely agree that you are going to declutter again and again if you have many things. I reached the point where I was decluttering physical photo albums. They were from a time before digital pictures and how many pictures did I need of my grandchildren opening gifts? Certainly not as many as I had! 😁 I got rid of a lot. Later I returned to the photo albums and got rid of more pictures with the vow to keep only the best. Now I routinely declutter digital pictures. Who knows I may return to those old physical albums and declutter more. ☺️
Love that!!! I feel like sometimes we think that photos are these sacred things that we aren't allowed to get rid of (or a part of them anyway), but I really think that the less is more concept also applies here. Now that I'm much more conscious about which photos I want to keep, and immediately declutter all the duplicates, blurries, uninteresting ones, I enjoy my photos so much more :)
I like how you leave little bits in your videos about “oops” moments, like the bit about your microphone being visible. It makes it more personal. Thank you for sharing your wisdom!
I have mostly finished our whole house, storage and memorabilia/photos. Still have a garage and a barn....one day at a time. It is SO freeing and easier to manage. My 'do' would be, do take your time and when you are ready and in the mood for it and save the photos for last...those are mentally draining. I had 33 photo albums...but I have also been married 33 years and have 3 grown sons. My 'don't' would be don't feel guilty, if it is not a clear yes...it's a NO. Thank you, Vera....I so enjoy your channel
Thanks for sharing this Vera I needed this to remind me....I do have a large box for the local charity shop that I drop unwanted items into I'm usually very sure about what I don't want. I would say do "regularly" decluffer keeping a designated box in a space of one's choice so that it acta as a reminder and don't obsess about it all just start by beginning 😘
Thank you for taking the time to make and share your ideas with us, so helpful. I do like the advice to be kind to ourselves, or that it might not be the right time x
Do start with your bedroom. Finish it entirely before moving on to any other room. We all need that sanctuary from the chaos of the rest of the house. Bedrooms are important. We rest and recover there. We cry, laugh, pray and dream there. For some of us it’s the only place we can be truly naked, not just physically but emotionally and mentally. We drop our guard…take off the armor. I just think we all need that in the crazy times we live in. Don’t hold on to things because of the money you spent on it. The money is already spent. You won’t be any richer for holding on to it nor will you be any poorer for letting it go. (I don’t know the original author of that tip but it helped me a lot.)
I really liked the "maybe box." I think it would be helpful to date it too because we can fool ourselves it's not been around that long! I also loved the idea of choosing a purpose for every room. The don't that is a sneaky one is "don't keep things for your fantasy self!" Like exercise equipment because you swear you'll get in shape but years later you've not used it! TY ❤️. Enjoyed all 30.
Love the idea to date the box! Maybe even set a reminder in your calendar for 6 months from now. So you won't forget to check up on it :) Happy to hear you enjoyed the video Joan, have a great weekend!
I am so sentimental...if someone I am close to offers me things I take them...I am learning to be a little more selective and saying no thank you. I currently have 2 storage units..i know, i know...lol But believe me that is an upcoming project as I could use the extra money and it just feels good to purge. I am so glad I found your videos...I really enjoy them! ❤
Maybe think about an area you could start on and just put a bag and a box there for trash and donations for example, and pull out a couple of things and look at them. Any trash? It can go, and you’ve begun! Even if that’s all you do that day.
Love your motivational videos ❤️ Do make sure everything in your storage gets used at some point during the year. No need to have things stored in a bin that never get touched.
I declutter on average 1 item every day and keep an accountability journal of all the items I declutter , and conversely, items that I purchase that are not food/ essential consumables, to keep track of where I am collecting too much (usually books). It works. I am now considering ‘luxury/unnecessary purchases’ far more thoroughly beforehand to ensure that I really need it in my house/life, and, for larger items, how would I dispose of this when I no longer require it. It has prevented me from buying many items which is fab.
Ah so cool!! I started keeping track of all the items I'm decluttering and acquiring as well since the beginning of this year. Very interesting to see everything written down.
Thank you for repeating that...we change! Our needs, taste, personality change and ...the ¨stuff¨ may have the right to change...places too!! (as for...somewhere else!! ;). Thank you so much !!
Decluttering needs to be creative in order to be accomplished sometimes. I like the idea of viewing everything in a category. I've never done that, but sounds like a fun project with shoes, beauty, etc. My do: take photos along the way to see if you're happy with the space or if more needs to be done. My don't: don't accumulate things to donate/toss/recycle, do so along the way so you can celebrate your short term wins!
I really appreciate all your videos. They've really helped me to not feel overwhelmed. I'm feeling more calm and not anxious when I try to declutter an area of my home. I still have a lot to declutter, but I keep in mind that it's a slow procees. It's a marathon not a sprint.
Hi Vera, hope you are having a great weekend. The best tip I heard from (the amazing) Dana K White is to 'take it there now', so that you are never left with piles of stuff to deal with later and therefore, never in a worse position than when you started the process. You have only made progress. x
@@SimpleHappyZen, she is very amusing and incredibly realistic about life. I found her to be invaluable in the early stages of decluttering. I hope you enjoy her! x
Yes!! I love that tip of Dana’s! That, and the container concept is also a good one. If you have more than fits in the designated container for that type of item, take everything out and put your favorites in first and then give the rest a new home…
My do and don’t: Don’t feel you have to go entirely through a category. Example, I had lots of jewelry amassed over decades. Most, out of style or no longer needed. When I was nearing a “donation run,” I would go through just a bit of the jewelry and see if there were a few pieces I could release. Over time, I reduced my collection substantially only by culling a few pieces as was convenient for me. Do practice small bits of decluttering as often as you can - as you suggested, 5 minutes or 10 minutes. It gets the job done without taking over your life. I love finding a few things to toss when I’m in one bathroom drawer or cabinet … or putting away laundry. It doesn’t feel like work or “a project.”
I know now not to be too hasty in decluttering after watching a video and really take your time. I also do it in several times just to be sure of what I need to let go.....
Do take a picture of the items so you don't make the same purchase mistakes in the future. Don't be afraid to just gift it to someone who will use and appreciate it, I just gifted my queen bed that was over 2k because it was just to heavy and large for movers to move it out of state, the new home owner wanted it.
Great video. When I started de-cluttering several years ago I followed the advice of asking myself "Do I need it, use it or love it? Yes or no?" And I got rid of a lot of stuff... some of which I'm sorry for letting go. I now know I would have made better decisions if I had asked "Why?"
Another great video Vera. Love the effort and work you put out on your channel. Thank you so much! As for a declutter do, it is definitely helpful to sort things into piles quickly. A definite don't is not to try to do your whole house in one day. I had a huge mess on my hands once and became quickly overwhelmed. I recommend doing one area of a room at a time. :)
Wonderful video as usual! One comment about the "Maybe" box - I find Marie Kondo's advice to be even more helpful - keep the stuff you're not sure about handy, and see if you can use them in the next 1-2 months, and whether they spark joy. if not, they will be easier to let go of. I find that if I put something aside, even if I don't miss it throughout the month, when I see it again it becomes more exciting and I tend to keep it....
Hi!! Maybe try the konmari way when decluttering :) She always takes an item in her hands and takes a moment to say 'thank you' before letting it go. It's a way of properly saying goodbye and being grateful for having had the item in the first place, but also as a way of acknowledging the end of your relationship with the item, which can help with letting it go without guilt
I have been watching ur videos since 1 yr I feel v relax calm and motivated after watching ur videos pls make video on how to take first action or step on goal
Don’t: 2nd guess yourself. Do: Set a timer for a short period of time, say 5 minutes ... Usually a task we are dreading takes much less time than we think it will. Once we see that the ask is not as long as we think it will be, we become more confident and comfortable with that task and the decisions we’ve made.
Love both! Especially the first one. No reason to second guess yourself. Once you've made a decision, commit to it and trust it's the right one. A life lesson haha :)
I think sometimes people declutter and then the place looks so empty they feel they have to go out and buy new things to fill the space they just created. I see this sooooo much on youtube when people move or buy new houses. For some reason they feel they have to pack it full of furniture etc to "fill the space"
Hi Vera. Very nice and easy to understand tips.. We are already in that process but for new comer it is very useful. I think you just gave us this type of homework 😀 Enjoy moments 🎉🎉
I’d have to say, going grocery shopping while hungry leads to over purchasing of food items. It’s a dilemma I need to address. I’ve spend to much time trying to find extra spaces to accommodate these food items. Having no more than 4 coffee and tea cups is far better than a whole cupboard full of them. Guilty as charged here. My clothes has become a very big overwhelming burden that needs fixing. I have far too many and I’m following your advice on downsizing their quantity. After my eldest two kids moved out of home, I don’t need as much linen as I once did. So that’s another I know needs to downsize. I’ve donated in the past, books, old kitchenware, coffee cups and children’s clothing. I’m looking around my home atm and I still see things I haven’t used in 2 or more years. I’m currently in the process of looking for more affordable housing and I know I have a huge job in downsizing my things, before we shift out. Now is a good time to declutter for myself. Having 4 piles, Keep, Sell, Giveaway and Throw away. Just making sure my keep pile is in another room, so I don’t get confused.
I know you said don't buy containers but if you have a container that is the space you want you can declutter till it fits, such as hair accessories, only keep what fits in the space. My don't is don't do it all at once.
Do make yourself aware of your time constraints is good. Allow yourself to know you have done well when you can choose one area to declutter. It can be a chore or more than one. Just start. Don't be discouraged if you get overwhelmed. It just means start with a small area. Each little place will be a reminder it can be done. Do remember, it took years to get to this place of "so much stuff" so why do you believe it will take a day to get it out. Just another reminder, use the clock hand method and keep on task. it can be easy to get distracted if you allow yourself to. Thanks.
Hi, Vera! Your dos and donts in this video cover a lot of decluttering difficulties and are all very helpful. I have a question: What can we do when we have to declutter the home of a close one who's passed away? I'm still trapped in the middle with my mum's and to get things even worse, my grandma's house is on the queue. It's not only a matter of time but plenty of mixed emotions involved. Thanks! 🧡
Hi Eli, thank you so much for your question. So sorry for your loss... I personally don't have experience in this area, but a quick google search showed me that there are many blog articles about decluttering someone else's home/possessions after they pass away. So perhaps there could be helpful tips for you in there. Take care and sending you a hug
Do find a declutter challenge, so helpfull for me. Don't declutter all day, set a timer for a certain time and then stop until the next declutter moment💚🍀
Do: Save some empty cardboard boxes. I'm prone to putting cardboard boxes into the recycling bin, but then I end up wanting one or two to use while decluttering later on. Don't: Feel guilty about decluttering the possessions of a recently deceased love one. My wife died in 2019 and she was a hoarder. I felt good about donating bags and bags of clothing to a local women's shelter. The lady there was so grateful that she cried.
Do: judge the item yourself - ask yourself why you keep this item, whether it can spark your joy? Or do you need it? Don’t: ask others whether you should keep the item.
Hi Vera.😃 Kanoodling and exercise equipment (in the bedroom!) in the same recommendation? Um, OK. 🤪 Recommendations, I have nothing you didn't already talk about. That one about fantasy self is a particularly good one. Peace and love, as Ringo used to say.
Hey Vera, Dankjewel voor de leerzame video's 🙏🏻 Maak je ook Nederlandstalige video's? Mijn moeder zou graag leren opruimen en ontspullen, maar ze vindt het lastig om Engelstalige video's goed te volgen. Mocht je dat niet bieden, weet je een kanaal/platform of andere mogelijkheid om mijn moeder op een toegankelijke manier van deze informatie te voorzien? Warme Wensen, Jimmy-Steven Biemans 🐌🐢
Hi Jimmy! Dankjewel voor je vraag! Ik maak zelf geen Nederlandstalige video's, maar misschien zijn ze wel te vinden op youtube? En ik kan het boek van Dennis Storm ook wel aanraden, hij heet 'Weg ermee'. Vond ik een erg leuk boek over minimalisme en ontspullen. Maar het zijn niet echt praktische tips, vooral meer over de mindset zeg maar. Veel succes!!!
@@SimpleHappyZen Mocht je in de toekomst Nederlandse ondertiteling willen toevoegen aan je video's, dan wil ik je wel helpen. Mijn contactgegevens zijn te vinden op mijn kanaal 😁
Hi Ms.Vera janeth is here new TH-cam because lately I reset my my phone but suddenly when I came back I don't remember my password . .I hope you accept me again. Thank you 💞💞 lovelots
I somehow don't like the term 'get rid of', it feels disrespectful for the item, like it is something that needs to be kicked out... I prefer the term ' give up' or 'pass away' (I know it is not a very significant issue but still...)
Thinking about it, I think I prefer 'letting go' over 'getting rid of'. :) But it's also important to actually get them out of your home, so that's when getting rid of describes it a bit better I think
Good grief. If you're so privileged to have a house and closets and garage overflowing with STUFF that you don't even need or use, think about the people who desperately need what you obviously don't and sell it and donate the money to charity or donate it. While you're mulling over a "maybe" box (just postponing the decision) there are people suffering. How selfish and entitled are you? Ask yourself that.
Hi my friends! What's a declutter do & don't for you, that you found to be helpful? 👇👇
I believe being impatient is my most difficult challenge. Thank you for all your positive vibes and for always being so positive.
"Do" start in the bathroom. Things are usually less emotional in the bathroom. Half used bottles, things you decided you didn't like the way they smelled, looked, or felt. So it's easier to get rid of those things. It gives you confidence to tackle the next space!
"Don't" wait for the perfect person to give things to. Just load it up and take it to a second hand store, good will, or community center.
Great tips! :) I love starting in the bathroom too haha. Also, I prefer to give things to people I know instead of donating them as a first step, because that way you'll be more sure that something will get a second life. However, we shouldn't use the people we know as a donation center hahaha. So like you said, if you can't think of someone who would really love/use it, it's best not to wait
@@SimpleHappyZen There's also always online freecycle groups and posting items on FB marketplace for free if you don't know people to give things to. I've been able to avoid donating tons of stuff and make sure things are getting a second life that way. One person's trash is another person's treasure. :)
Very good points!
Hi Vera thanks for another inspiring video 🌻. A 'do' I've found helpful when I'm decluttering is to imagine that particular space as I'd like it to be and then remove the surplus!
A 'don't' is to put pressure on yourself to do too much once you get decision fatigue xx 💖
Love those! That's a clever way of looking at it :)
DO play your favourite you tube videos while you are decluttering. Listening to them while you are working away feels like you have company. DON'T keep any shoes that are uncomfortable or hurt your feet. That colour top really suits you Vera. Thank you for another very helpful video 🦋
Thanks so much Kylee and those are great tips!! :) Life is too short for uncomfortable shoes haha
My biggest “do” is Let go of decluttering guilt. My biggest don’t would be Don’t reward yourself by buying more!
Ah yes!! Good ones :) Thanks Jerusha
I recently decluttered my family pictures and it was a hard declutter for me. You are absolutely right….why keep 5 pictures of the same thing??? It was so hard to throw away some of those baby pictures but I did! I did keep two of those kinds as I have two children. I was amazed at the amount of “throw always” I had! It was a large box full! It felt good afterwards but it was very hard!
I can imagine that must be very challenging! My compliments to you :)
These aren’t really dos and don’s but, the best tips I’ve found recently are: use a BLACK trash bag for things you know you want to get rid of (not the maybe box) and for trash when decluttering. Black keeps others in your house (kids) and even yourself from seeing inside and second-guessing. The second is the 20-20 rule (it can be adjusted to suit you), if you’re waffling about an item because you might want it in the future, if it can be replaced in 20 minutes for $20 or less, just toss it. Chances are you’ll never think about it again, but if you do, you can replace it.
Very clever!! I guess you could also use a cardboard box or something, as long as you can't see inside. Also, I like the 20-20 rule too
I like the black trash bag one. I also like it to leave my home quickly, so I don't dare look through and think "I can use that..what was I thinking?". 😆😆
One DO for me is to sell or donate the largest items first. Gives me more room to sort remaining items for sell, donate, or recycle. Another DO is to keep a box for each donation destination in my garage. As I find things to donate, I put them in the right box. When I’m running errands, I grab the donation boxes and drop them off on my errand route. A third DO is to declutter one room or area at a time. I finished my garage and am now focused on my basement.
All great tips!! Especially like the getting rid of bigger things first one. Really helps with creating more space. Like boxes and stuff. We used to keep sooooo many boxes...
I agree on the large items. Having more open space helps me see how my intention to have less will make my home more pleasant.
Dear " Happy Zen "....even if advanced in the state of being a declutter ;) , it is wonderful to hear your tips; especially that you do it in a COMPLETE dual: do and don't! I am truly grateful for the reminders or the new ideas (that never crossed my mind) in your video!!! Spring is at the door (for us here in Quebec, Canada) and you give the taste and wants to....free our surroundings from what may make it heavy to live in!! You do so with such gentle and kind voice and advice! Thank you so much! helene :)
I love decluttering! Feels so good! Especially a good closet clean out. I recently sold a bunch of luxury handbags I've had for years that I hadn't used in awhile. I kept the ones I loved and passed on the rest ( a good chunk of my collection) to others who will enjoy! 😊 I'm not in that space in life anymore. And I don't miss them at all. Not having your possessions own you is the greatest feeling.
That's wonderful! :)
I love decluttering!! The one lesson I have learned over the years is not to donate things too quickly! The "maybe" basket is a really good idea! I have regretted getting rid of certain items over the years!
Thanks so much for sharing Tami, definitely a good idea to not get rid of things you'll end up regretting :)
Thanks Vera that's a great set of dos and don'ts for decluttering newbies and minimalism veterans alike!
A decluttering do that I'd endorse is knowing why you are doing it. While decluttering can be difficult it can also be exhilarating - the sense of relief, lightness and freedom that comes from saying goodbye to clutter can feel really great. Without a good sense of the broader reasons why you are doing it, it's possible to get stuck on the 'high' of decluttering itself and then feel very deflated when there's nothing left you can declutter.
A related decluttering don't for me would be to perhaps avoid decluttering when you are feeling down or stressed, similar to avoiding going shopping when feeling down or grocery shopping when feeling hungry.
Oh those are two very good points! :)
Excellent point!
Thanks for the tips. I revisited this video and found them useful reminders. It's a constant battle to keep the mindset.
Which reminds me
Don't underestimate the emotional side of it and
Do it when you're feeling in a good emotional state to start!
(For me, the best is when I've got some time and it's morning, so I'm full of energy and enthusiasm!)
Great video as always! A do - my feeling is if someone gives me something I can't use or do not want is I will tell them right away so that they can either return it or keep it for themselves. A don't - when someone passes away take the time to wait (if possible) for your feelings to level out before getting rid of items. In our rush to move one, or run away from the pain, we may get rid of items we really regret later.
Love both of these tips Francine, thanks so much for sharing them! You're so cool that you're able to have that 'awkward' conversation after receiving a gift you can't use :)
I’m not sure about a ‘do’ for me, but definitely a ‘don’t’ is keep things around too long (even in a donate pile). I get too complacent and there’s the risk that someone will take an item out. Plus having a pile of stuff just really brings down the look of the room. Clutter attracts clutter.
Well said! :) I think once you decide you want to get rid of certain items, it's best to get them out asap
I have to admit that because I don't drive, any donation boxes that I fill tend to sit in the hallway until one of my parents can drop it off. A unique situation I realize, and sometimes certain items do tend to get taken out... one of these days however, this rule will change! 😅
Your hair is so pretty.
Thank you! :)
Thanks for the advice. I appreciate your effort to help us with our minimalism journey. As a teen who lives with non minimalists and started decluttering some weeks ago your channel helped me sooo much. 😘💚
Hi Irene! So happy to hear my videos have been helpful for you and that you started decluttering! Have a lovely weekend
Well done for starting and helping create your space the way you feel comfortable in it! Maybe you will be an inspiration to others in your home, who knows :-). But keep doing it for yourself! 💗😊
Hi. Another wonderful video. Thanks 🙏. One declutter don’t is to never declutter when you are in a intense mood, either good or bad. And one declutter do, is to imagine the space you are decluttering as if it is already settled.
Ah very good tips!!! :) Thanks Maria
Thank for the great decluttering tips! I recently told a family member “no more gifts” bc I always end up decluttering the gifts. I think he was relieved and asked about restaurant gift cards we would like instead. 🎉
This isn't really a decluttering idea, but an idea about how to end up with gifts you want-a preemptive strike, I guess. A couple we know recently told us how they tackle gift-giving for each other at Christmas. First, several weeks before Christmas, they literally exchange the same amount of money: she gives him so much, he gives her the same back (the amount being predetermined). Then each of them goes out and buys what they want. Here is the part we thought interesting and fun: they wrap up their own gifts and put them under the tree. On Christmas morning, they open the other person's presents. So there's still a surprise element ("I never would have thought of buying that for you", etc.), and they both have gifts they will enjoy. We were so taken with this idea, we've decided to try it this year.
Ah that's such a cool idea!! 😄
This is lame
That's adorable.
Wow, that's interesting. But I would skip the exchange of the same amount of money. Makes no sense. Especially because wenonly have one account. 😅
@@duncanmcgregor4973 I think it's meant to be a ritual more than anything; it replaces the actual gift-giving part. We skipped it last year and went straight to the shopping 😀
Definitely agree that you are going to declutter again and again if you have many things. I reached the point where I was decluttering physical photo albums. They were from a time before digital pictures and how many pictures did I need of my grandchildren opening gifts? Certainly not as many as I had! 😁 I got rid of a lot. Later I returned to the photo albums and got rid of more pictures with the vow to keep only the best. Now I routinely declutter digital pictures. Who knows I may return to those old physical albums and declutter more. ☺️
Love that!!! I feel like sometimes we think that photos are these sacred things that we aren't allowed to get rid of (or a part of them anyway), but I really think that the less is more concept also applies here. Now that I'm much more conscious about which photos I want to keep, and immediately declutter all the duplicates, blurries, uninteresting ones, I enjoy my photos so much more :)
I like how you leave little bits in your videos about “oops” moments, like the bit about your microphone being visible. It makes it more personal. Thank you for sharing your wisdom!
I have mostly finished our whole house, storage and memorabilia/photos. Still have a garage and a barn....one day at a time. It is SO freeing and easier to manage. My 'do' would be, do take your time and when you are ready and in the mood for it and save the photos for last...those are mentally draining. I had 33 photo albums...but I have also been married 33 years and have 3 grown sons. My 'don't' would be don't feel guilty, if it is not a clear yes...it's a NO. Thank you, Vera....I so enjoy your channel
Do declutter in spring. I call it spring cleaning. Don't beat yourself up when you're not sure what to do. Be gentle with yourself. 🌷☮️🤗
Thanks so much for sharing Jennie!! Love me some spring cleaning too :) The perfect season
Thanks for sharing this Vera I needed this to remind me....I do have a large box for the local charity shop that I drop unwanted items into I'm usually very sure about what I don't want. I would say do "regularly" decluffer keeping a designated box in a space of one's choice so that it acta as a reminder and don't obsess about it all just start by beginning 😘
Love that!! Yes a box like that really works so well :)
Thank you for taking the time to make and share your ideas with us, so helpful. I do like the advice to be kind to ourselves, or that it might not be the right time x
Thanks so much!! :) Have a lovely rest of your weekend
I hv doing it for last 3 years,it's very destressing and hence refreshing,feeling more integrated day by day.Thanku so much for keeping me motivated.
Do start with your bedroom. Finish it entirely before moving on to any other room. We all need that sanctuary from the chaos of the rest of the house. Bedrooms are important. We rest and recover there. We cry, laugh, pray and dream there. For some of us it’s the only place we can be truly naked, not just physically but emotionally and mentally. We drop our guard…take off the armor. I just think we all need that in the crazy times we live in.
Don’t hold on to things because of the money you spent on it. The money is already spent. You won’t be any richer for holding on to it nor will you be any poorer for letting it go. (I don’t know the original author of that tip but it helped me a lot.)
Love both of these so much!!! Beautifully written too :)
I really liked the "maybe box." I think it would be helpful to date it too because we can fool ourselves it's not been around that long! I also loved the idea of choosing a purpose for every room. The don't that is a sneaky one is "don't keep things for your fantasy self!" Like exercise equipment because you swear you'll get in shape but years later you've not used it! TY ❤️. Enjoyed all 30.
Love the idea to date the box! Maybe even set a reminder in your calendar for 6 months from now. So you won't forget to check up on it :) Happy to hear you enjoyed the video Joan, have a great weekend!
Really good tips! Number 28, boy I wish someone had clued me in on that one when I first started my journey! Thank you for the inspiration! 😊
Haha well, better late than never! :) Thanks Lisa, have a nice day today
Aw Vera you are so cute! You look so cosy, and beautiful, in your red jumper! ❤️
I am so sentimental...if someone I am close to offers me things I take them...I am learning to be a little more selective and saying no thank you. I currently have 2 storage units..i know, i know...lol
But believe me that is an upcoming project as I could use the extra money and it just feels good to purge.
I am so glad I found your videos...I really enjoy them! ❤
Hi Vera. All of these tips are useful. I'll refer to them during my declutter journey. The hardest part for me is to make a start.
Hi Kelly, happy to hear you found the video useful :) Just start somewhere, and take little steps :)
Maybe think about an area you could start on and just put a bag and a box there for trash and donations for example, and pull out a couple of things and look at them. Any trash? It can go, and you’ve begun! Even if that’s all you do that day.
@@beccismith4454 that's a great idea. It makes the process seem less daunting. Thanks!
OMG I just discovered your channel and this video is amazing real tought out and honest advices thank you very much for sharing 💖
Thanks so much and welcome to the channel! 🤗🌺
Love your motivational videos ❤️ Do make sure everything in your storage gets used at some point during the year. No need to have things stored in a bin that never get touched.
Thank you so much Laura and that tip makes perfect sense!
I declutter on average 1 item every day and keep an accountability journal of all the items I declutter , and conversely, items that I purchase that are not food/ essential consumables, to keep track of where I am collecting too much (usually books). It works. I am now considering ‘luxury/unnecessary purchases’ far more thoroughly beforehand to ensure that I really need it in my house/life, and, for larger items, how would I dispose of this when I no longer require it. It has prevented me from buying many items which is fab.
Ah so cool!! I started keeping track of all the items I'm decluttering and acquiring as well since the beginning of this year. Very interesting to see everything written down.
Thank you for repeating that...we change! Our needs, taste, personality change and ...the ¨stuff¨ may have the right to change...places too!! (as for...somewhere else!! ;). Thank you so much !!
Haha yes!! 😄 Happy you enjoyed that one. Thanks Helene!
Decluttering needs to be creative in order to be accomplished sometimes. I like the idea of viewing everything in a category. I've never done that, but sounds like a fun project with shoes, beauty, etc. My do: take photos along the way to see if you're happy with the space or if more needs to be done. My don't: don't accumulate things to donate/toss/recycle, do so along the way so you can celebrate your short term wins!
Totally agree :) Thanks for sharing!! I wish I had taken pictures since the beginning haha
I really appreciate all your videos. They've really helped me to not feel overwhelmed. I'm feeling more calm and not anxious when I try to declutter an area of my home. I still have a lot to declutter, but I keep in mind that it's a slow procees. It's a marathon not a sprint.
Aw that's amazing!! Just keep taking small steps, you're doing great :)
That is a learning experience...not to look at things as a mountain. Like this list!!! 😄
Hi Vera, hope you are having a great weekend. The best tip I heard from (the amazing) Dana K White is to 'take it there now', so that you are never left with piles of stuff to deal with later and therefore, never in a worse position than when you started the process. You have only made progress. x
Thanks so much for sharing! I'll check out Dana's channel :)
@@SimpleHappyZen, she is very amusing and incredibly realistic about life. I found her to be invaluable in the early stages of decluttering. I hope you enjoy her! x
Yes!! I love that tip of Dana’s! That, and the container concept is also a good one. If you have more than fits in the designated container for that type of item, take everything out and put your favorites in first and then give the rest a new home…
Thank you for sharing!!
Eliminating the obstacle with the cost example was a great tip🙌🏻
Happy to hear it! :)
My do and don’t:
Don’t feel you have to go entirely through a category. Example, I had lots of jewelry amassed over decades. Most, out of style or no longer needed. When I was nearing a “donation run,” I would go through just a bit of the jewelry and see if there were a few pieces I could release. Over time, I reduced my collection substantially only by culling a few pieces as was convenient for me.
Do practice small bits of decluttering as often as you can - as you suggested, 5 minutes or 10 minutes. It gets the job done without taking over your life. I love finding a few things to toss when I’m in one bathroom drawer or cabinet … or putting away laundry. It doesn’t feel like work or “a project.”
Awesome tips!! Thanks for sharing
😂 wow! I felt you were talking directly to me when you recommended skill share , because I was thinking, " sewing? Instruments?" Lol!👍👍👍
Haha coincidence! :) There are so many classes about these topics on Skillshare, and they're all so much fun :)
I know now not to be too hasty in decluttering after watching a video and really take your time. I also do it in several times just to be sure of what I need to let go.....
Setting things aside is a box or bin to see if you really miss them has helped on clothes
Do take a picture of the items so you don't make the same purchase mistakes in the future.
Don't be afraid to just gift it to someone who will use and appreciate it, I just gifted my queen bed that was over 2k because it was just to heavy and large for movers to move it out of state, the new home owner wanted it.
Wow that's awesome :) Thanks for sharing Rosemary!
Great video. When I started de-cluttering several years ago I followed the advice of asking myself "Do I need it, use it or love it? Yes or no?" And I got rid of a lot of stuff... some of which I'm sorry for letting go. I now know I would have made better decisions if I had asked "Why?"
"Why" is always one of the best questions to ask, I think :)
Perfect video as I need some inspiration to start my spring clean 👍
Happy to hear it! Enjoy your spring clean!
Another great video Vera. Love the effort and work you put out on your channel. Thank you so much! As for a declutter do, it is definitely helpful to sort things into piles quickly. A definite don't is not to try to do your whole house in one day. I had a huge mess on my hands once and became quickly overwhelmed. I recommend doing one area of a room at a time. :)
Thanks so much Michelle! Wow, doing you're whole house in one day, I can imagine the mess hahaha :)
Wonderful video as usual! One comment about the "Maybe" box - I find Marie Kondo's advice to be even more helpful - keep the stuff you're not sure about handy, and see if you can use them in the next 1-2 months, and whether they spark joy. if not, they will be easier to let go of. I find that if I put something aside, even if I don't miss it throughout the month, when I see it again it becomes more exciting and I tend to keep it....
Ah that's a good idea! :)
Thank you 🌷
You're very welcome :)
For me the guilt feeling destroys the joy of decluttering...but I am learning with you🌻
Hi!! Maybe try the konmari way when decluttering :) She always takes an item in her hands and takes a moment to say 'thank you' before letting it go. It's a way of properly saying goodbye and being grateful for having had the item in the first place, but also as a way of acknowledging the end of your relationship with the item, which can help with letting it go without guilt
@@SimpleHappyZen I will definitely put a note for this so I don't forget to practice it🥰 thanks 🕊️
I have been watching ur videos since 1 yr I feel v relax calm and motivated after watching ur videos pls make video on how to take first action or step on goal
Thank you so much for your support and topic suggestion, so happy you're enjoying my videos!
Thank. You so. Much. For. Your advice
You're welcome! :)
Great video! It's so inspiring and motivating!📷✨🌿🦋🥰🎨🎨🎨🎨🎨
Thanks so much Masha!! :)
I found your Do and don’t so useful… hope you will make one video about do and don’t for sensitive people!
Ah that's such a great idea, thank you Laura :) Have a wonderful rest of day!
I went thru my closet in March then in April. I had to be alittle more honest with myself.
Awesome, congrats Laura :)
Don’t: 2nd guess yourself. Do: Set a timer for a short period of time, say 5 minutes ... Usually a task we are dreading takes much less time than we think it will. Once we see that the ask is not as long as we think it will be, we become more confident and comfortable with that task and the decisions we’ve made.
Love both! Especially the first one. No reason to second guess yourself. Once you've made a decision, commit to it and trust it's the right one. A life lesson haha :)
I think sometimes people declutter and then the place looks so empty they feel they have to go out and buy new things to fill the space they just created. I see this sooooo much on youtube when people move or buy new houses. For some reason they feel they have to pack it full of furniture etc to "fill the space"
Yes, it's what we're told we're supposed to do with our space :)
Hi Vera. Very nice and easy to understand tips..
We are already in that process but for new comer it is very useful.
I think you just gave us this type of homework 😀
Enjoy moments 🎉🎉
Thanks so much, happy you enjoyed the video! Have a happy Monday :)
Very helpful!
Thank you so much :)
Instead of listening to music, watch this and other similar videos while you declutter to keep you in the right mindset.
Ah that's clever! :)
Great video, as usual! Number 22 and 26 are the most difficult and frustrating for me 😓
I think for many people :) Don't worry! Baby steps :)
Thanks for these video. I love your playlist do and dont ;)
So happy to hear it! :) I love making them.
I’d have to say, going grocery shopping while hungry leads to over purchasing of food items. It’s a dilemma I need to address. I’ve spend to much time trying to find extra spaces to accommodate these food items. Having no more than 4 coffee and tea cups is far better than a whole cupboard full of them. Guilty as charged here. My clothes has become a very big overwhelming burden that needs fixing. I have far too many and I’m following your advice on downsizing their quantity. After my eldest two kids moved out of home, I don’t need as much linen as I once did. So that’s another I know needs to downsize. I’ve donated in the past, books, old kitchenware, coffee cups and children’s clothing. I’m looking around my home atm and I still see things I haven’t used in 2 or more years. I’m currently in the process of looking for more affordable housing and I know I have a huge job in downsizing my things, before we shift out. Now is a good time to declutter for myself. Having 4 piles, Keep, Sell, Giveaway and Throw away. Just making sure my keep pile is in another room, so I don’t get confused.
I know you said don't buy containers but if you have a container that is the space you want you can declutter till it fits, such as hair accessories, only keep what fits in the space. My don't is don't do it all at once.
Great video as well!
excellent video...gracias
Thank you Lulu! :)
Hi Vera lovely video and thanks for sharing great tips. I don't buy things just because and I do buy things if needed or that bring me joy.❤
Me too!! :) Thanks Cathy, have a lovely rest of your weekend!
Do make yourself aware of your time constraints is good. Allow yourself to know you have done well when you can choose one area to declutter. It can be a chore or more than one. Just start. Don't be discouraged if you get overwhelmed. It just means start with a small area. Each little place will be a reminder it can be done. Do remember, it took years to get to this place of "so much stuff" so why do you believe it will take a day to get it out. Just another reminder, use the clock hand method and keep on task. it can be easy to get distracted if you allow yourself to. Thanks.
Thanks so much for sharing your tips! :) Have a happy Monday
Hi, Vera! Your dos and donts in this video cover a lot of decluttering difficulties and are all very helpful. I have a question: What can we do when we have to declutter the home of a close one who's passed away? I'm still trapped in the middle with my mum's and to get things even worse, my grandma's house is on the queue. It's not only a matter of time but plenty of mixed emotions involved. Thanks! 🧡
Hi Eli, thank you so much for your question. So sorry for your loss... I personally don't have experience in this area, but a quick google search showed me that there are many blog articles about decluttering someone else's home/possessions after they pass away. So perhaps there could be helpful tips for you in there. Take care and sending you a hug
@@SimpleHappyZen Thank you very much for your kind answer, Vera. I'll give Google search a try. Happy Sunday! 😊
Do find a declutter challenge, so helpfull for me. Don't declutter all day, set a timer for a certain time and then stop until the next declutter moment💚🍀
Both great tips! :) Thanks Sylvia
Love your hair❤️❤️❤️❤️🌷🌷🌷
Thank you Kathye! :)
Great information ❤️
Thank you Heidi :)
I watch again your TH-cam channel 🙂🙂
Happy to see you here again Janeth! :)
Excellent!!!
Thanks so much :)
Yours hair looking great
Ah thanks!! :)
"Don't be too hard on yourself. There are plenty of people willing to do that for you. Do your best and surrender the rest." - Anonymous
Good video !
Thank you Teresa, hope you're having a nice day :)
Do: Save some empty cardboard boxes. I'm prone to putting cardboard boxes into the recycling bin, but then I end up wanting one or two to use while decluttering later on.
Don't: Feel guilty about decluttering the possessions of a recently deceased love one. My wife died in 2019 and she was a hoarder. I felt good about donating bags and bags of clothing to a local women's shelter. The lady there was so grateful that she cried.
Do: judge the item yourself - ask yourself why you keep this item, whether it can spark your joy? Or do you need it?
Don’t: ask others whether you should keep the item.
Don't keep things that remind you of painful or toxic events! I don't have a do lol, I'm still trying to find my way :)
Good tip! :) Have a happy Monday
Hi Vera.😃 Kanoodling and exercise equipment (in the bedroom!) in the same recommendation? Um, OK. 🤪 Recommendations, I have nothing you didn't already talk about. That one about fantasy self is a particularly good one. Peace and love, as Ringo used to say.
Hahahaha that's funny 😂😂😂 Happy you enjoyed the video and the fantasy self tip!
I really am due for a declutter
It's spring, the perfect season to start again :)
I can't see your mic the subtitles cover it up (I always use captions I'm hard of hearing)
Hey Vera, Dankjewel voor de leerzame video's 🙏🏻
Maak je ook Nederlandstalige video's? Mijn moeder zou graag leren opruimen en ontspullen, maar ze vindt het lastig om Engelstalige video's goed te volgen. Mocht je dat niet bieden, weet je een kanaal/platform of andere mogelijkheid om mijn moeder op een toegankelijke manier van deze informatie te voorzien?
Warme Wensen,
Jimmy-Steven Biemans 🐌🐢
Hi Jimmy! Dankjewel voor je vraag! Ik maak zelf geen Nederlandstalige video's, maar misschien zijn ze wel te vinden op youtube? En ik kan het boek van Dennis Storm ook wel aanraden, hij heet 'Weg ermee'. Vond ik een erg leuk boek over minimalisme en ontspullen. Maar het zijn niet echt praktische tips, vooral meer over de mindset zeg maar. Veel succes!!!
@@SimpleHappyZen Hartelijk dank ❤🙏🏻
@@SimpleHappyZen Mocht je in de toekomst Nederlandse ondertiteling willen toevoegen aan je video's, dan wil ik je wel helpen. Mijn contactgegevens zijn te vinden op mijn kanaal 😁
Is het misschien een idee om van elke video een Nederlandse samenvatting te maken voor he moeder? Gewoon een lijstje. Misschien helpt dat haar?
@@AileendeJonge Dankjewel voor de tip 🙏🏻😊
Do not declutter when you're angry or otherwise emotional, declutter with a calm mind, otherwise you will get rid of things that you may regret later.
I agree :)
📦I would say think outside the box, what do you gain by letting go of some things... Picture it
Picturing possible outcomes of letting something go is a great tip!
@@SimpleHappyZen have a good week! 🌷
Do start with the low emotion categories
Don't be tempted to declutter someone else's stuff
Lol, I didn’t notice the mic… then I rewound to look for it. Still couldn’t see it. No worries hon!
Hahaha really? :) I always hide the mic under my shirt with duct tape hahaha, keeping it real 😂
Hi Ms.Vera janeth is here new TH-cam because lately I reset my my phone but suddenly when I came back I don't remember my password . .I hope you accept me again. Thank you 💞💞 lovelots
Of course! Good to see you again Janeth, have a lovely day today
I somehow don't like the term 'get rid of', it feels disrespectful for the item, like it is something that needs to be kicked out... I prefer the term ' give up' or 'pass away' (I know it is not a very significant issue but still...)
Thinking about it, I think I prefer 'letting go' over 'getting rid of'. :) But it's also important to actually get them out of your home, so that's when getting rid of describes it a bit better I think
Unless you have already massively decluttered, gathering all of one type of item together is not practical.
Good grief. If you're so privileged to have a house and closets and garage overflowing with STUFF that you don't even need or use, think about the people who desperately need what you obviously don't and sell it and donate the money to charity or donate it. While you're mulling over a "maybe" box (just postponing the decision) there are people suffering. How selfish and entitled are you? Ask yourself that.