One thing that I learned from Marie Kondo's book that really resonated is that the purpose of a gift is to be given and received. Once that has happened and you've gotten the joy of receiving it, any additional value is just bonus. If you don't get any more value, that's fine and releasing the gift or card is not an act of disrespect.
"Holding onto X is me imagining myself becoming a person that I am not." THIS IS SO TRUE THOUGH!!! And a good way to critically think about decluttering
Also HELLZ YEAH YOU DID AWESOME! Insurance sucks - I found out that I never officially selected a primary physician with my insurance co for my stupid HMO plan (did it at the dr's office and thought that would be enough - merp), so now I need to go through their stupid appeals process on that, so I feel the struggle. But - silver lining! Now you know that there's an issue with your insurance that needs to be addressed. I know it's anxiety inducing in and of itself, but it'd be worse NOT knowing until you're in a sitch where you go to seek care only to be told that you're not actually insured, I think?
This hit. I have a stack of art supplies, and ZERO artistic talent. It's just sitting there telling me, "Yeah, loser, you wasted money on this. You still can't paint or draw, or cross stitch, or take great pictures. Just go play Wordle."
I loved the "it doesn't have to be perfect. It just has to be better". it reminded me of how freeing it was years ago when I read that root word for perfect did not mean "without flaws". It simply means "complete".
I just thought that the English word perfect is from the french. in French the word is Parfait. Which literally means the past participle done as the verb 'faire' is 'to do and 'par' is By or through' basically it absolutely does mean complete @SD-MA
@@lorraine.bernardettehoole7743 That definitely has a certain logic to it. I have a French degree and lived in Paris many years so that appeals to me. But that tiny bit I mentioned came from an article on the etymology of common words that I read years ago---really decades ago---that traced word meanings back to their Latin roots. I enjoyed your comment and it made me root (pun intended) around on the internet to see what I could find. Here's from an article: "The word perfection comes from the Latin perfèctus, from perficĕre, which means to finish or fulfill. While the preposition per adds the idea of fulfillment, the verb fèctus, which comes from fàcere, refers to doing something." I think this makes sense in how it probably wandered from Latin to French to English. Thank you for giving me the chance to think about words this morning. I always enjoy that. Here's the link to the article in case you are interested. It deals mainly with the psychology behind the desire for perfection but is an interesting read. psychology-spot.com/perfection-meaning-etymology/
@jainthorne4136 Thank you for your interesting comment. I never really gave it much thought. It was just something that popped into my head. I've no education about etymology so I was really pleased for your insight. I do have an interest in the way language develops though and English seems to derive from many other Languages. I was told it's a germanic language but it seems to me that many words come from French. Probably because of the Norman invasion and I have been told that French was the tongue of the ruling classes in England at one time. And of course the Roman's got just about everywhere I'm guessing the the French language is even more closely linked to latin. Again thank you for taking the time to reply. 🙂
When you found the nail stickers in your credenza & said “me holding onto these nail stickers is me imagining myself becoming a person who I am not” hit hard as I’m looking at a sewing machine I bought three years ago and have not attempted to learn to sew not even once.😂 Time to go dear sewing machine!😊
As someone with adhd this is extremely helpful, and fun. The type of humor is like beyond relatable. (Also, and I know we’re highlighting the skims tee, but I have to know where the white skirt is from 😍, it’s so lovely)
Awww I’ve never gotten this comment before but this is always how I’ve hoped they feel!! In editing I sometimes wonder if I’m putting in too much to one video, but I’m so glad to hear u enjoyed it
There's so much empty crap out there that people are calling "content" lol substance is so refreshing and appreciated@@Caroline_Winkler, as are you. ❤
Sometimes being still and quiet is powerful even for a couple of minutes. I am finding it's a simple gift I can give myself. Love the clarity and beauty to be more of myself without distraction. ✨
@@INfinite2027 yes! buddhism teaches how to find yourself in the present even just doing the dishes, or going for a walk! a lot of people forget that its more than sitting down to do so because with how active my brain is, i have to have my body moving in order to truly meditate’
@@gabriellaraziah My mind is active also and I love being 'at my still point' or peace while in motion also! Maybe that's when I'm more fully in alignment rather than choosing and in motion due to conditioning. I do love living 'in flow'. Often I'm not so actually being still for a brief time allows a natural reset. It's so great everyone can experiment and discover what works for them in the moment. 😊
Me too. And at the Same time the Nail Stickers would have been the only thing I would have been delighted to find. And the pouch with the Green leaves. Yeah, i Got that it's about getting rid If stuff. Totally.
I laughed, out loud, multiple times. Not only was this fun and realistic but your comedic timing and editing style are HILARIOUS. So much fun to watch! Thanks for this refreshing take!
honestly, props to you for continuing the video right after that big demoralizing insurance issue. and appreciation to you for showing that it was actually bothering you while you did your best to dust off and carry on. you're my absolute favorite youtuber for how real you are when things start to suck, rather than edit it out. to me that's a courageous thing to do. super awesome stuff, proud of you!
My lil 3.5 year old baby girl just ran over from the other room and asked what I was watching, and as she peered over my shoulder she goes “WHOA, She’s prettay!!” 😊 so sweet! Love ur channel!! Love me a frantic declutter as well.
Caroline, I stumbled across your channel when my husband clicked on random interior design TH-cam video while I was laid up on the couch after tearing my meniscus. I have watched nearly all of your videos and this is my favorite by far. Your “be present for 2 minutes ” montage was perfection. But I just want to say that you are such an inspiration. I live in a small town in VA and there isn’t much big department store shopping, but there is a lot of antique/vintage stores! And now because of you, I started to thrift and shop at antique stores and I love it! And when you said that no one is going to die because you put a nail in your wall…I needed to hear that so badly. I suffer from being a perfectionist and I have a difficult time committing to a design because I’m worried it will be “wrong”! Thank you for being such a positive corner of the internet. I absolutely love your apartment decor and look forward to watching more of your videos. ❤
So freaking genius. At first I was like.. are.. are we gonna watch her be present for the entire two minutes? Then was quickly delighted that we watched her be present for the entire two minutes.
I stepped away from a marriage that was killing me and went to stay with my sister for "a couple weeks" that turned into 6 months. Being semi homeless for hakf a year taught me a LOT about what I need, what I like, what makes me feel safe and happy, and what was just taking up real estate in my physical or emotional domain.
@@MeHere650I had to leave when the death threats began. I took 4 kids under 8 with me. Hardest and best thing I have ever done. We are all safe, alive, and much better off for getting away from the terrors of his rage. The kids are all adults and doing well. God carried us every step of the way. I thought that by leaving, I would be flinging myself and our kids off a cliff. But I found that there were steps on the cliff face I could take, one by one. An abuser will convince you you can never make it on your own, but that's a lie.
You can't become anyone else than yourself. You can only repeat patterns that you either have adapted from others or created yourself. You always choose yourself how you express yourself.
Awwww, when your friend Ashley picked up in shock, I could really feel all her emotions! I bet that your call made her day! ❤❤❤ Me too I like to call my friends and family to say hello, and that is when you notice not many people care about doing the same, even if it is 10 seconds of their time. Glad you call her! 😊 Don't forget to call Ashley kore often to see how she's doing! 🤗
As flimsy as these words are - I am so sorry to hear that. Truly. I haven’t felt that grief first person but I’ve witnessed it up close and I can’t wrap my mind around it. Hang in there. I hope you get a big hug today ❤
hugs all around. It gets easier eventually, but the first year is tough. Like sobbing in the middle of an aisle of greeting cards tough. I lost my mom 14 years ago to cancer, and I still have a bad day sometimes. I also try to keep going in case she’s checking in on me lol.
Funny, I just sent this comment I found to my daughter . “Today, I completed a chore I have been putting off for 7 months. It took 12 minutes. I will learn nothing from this. Great vid !!
16:28 It's gotta be a universal phenomenon. I have absolutely NO CLUE what my mom is going in the background, but you freaking NAILED THE SOUND. I honestly just thought it was me and I was being a little egoistic for being irritated with her for messing with stuff while I'm trying to talk to her over the phone, but you made me feel validated and seen with that newspaper crumpling and your own annoyance with it. So thank you 🙏
_Hilarious._ Def be gracious, it could very well be her/their way of multitasking, in order to accomplish things on _her/their_ list, while also making time to catch up with you.
The clock would give me anxiety😂 I create a playlist that is exactly the time I plan to spend on decluttering and measure the time I want to spend on each task in songs!
I get anxious but maybe it’s because I am old enough to remember a tv show called Beat the Clock ⏰ that it’s natural for me to try and do exactly that. As long as whatever we do works for us! (And I would lose time dancing around. 😂)
I played a game while watching. At each section break I got up and did one small chore that took only a few mins. Empty the vacuum, take down the dishes, start a load of laundry... And I got a lot done!!
I love your videos. My daughter and I share them. She'll get a kick out of your impression of your Mom. I do the same thing! Cleaning clutter can be overwhelming. Thank you for your video! 💖
sometimes when you declutter your life you discover a new area to declutter. that's why the dental insurance task was great. bc imagine if you DIDN'T push yourself to do it today, and maybe you didn't discover your insurance thing until after a health emergency of some kind. definitely a win. you'll sort the whole thing out and be in much better shape soon. I use timers all the time but never thought of making a list with time limits for each task, that's brilliant. Also due to your discussion of hoarding and greeting cards in a prior video, I was able to take the greeting card from my doctor's office wishing me well after my surgery last week and release it to the recycling bin. I would have held onto it otherwise (don't ask me why, madness is only answer).
Fellow millennial here. I have a totally different lifestyle than you and we probably wouldn’t agree on lots of things, but I love your channel. I grew up in a VERY tidy home. Two younger siblings 5 and 9 years younger than me. I now have 6 of my own kiddos each a little over 2 years apart. On top of all that my hubby is in the medical field and I have to do my best to work through various stages of our life together knowing he just can’t be present. Our home build took an 2 extra months longer than it was supposed to so we lived in Airbnb’s all summer. All 8 of us 😳We FINALLY moved into our dream home in July, but now everything is EVERYWHERE and your video is helping me rev up for Monday 💪🏼 sorry about your insurance, but thank you for the motivation. Your quick timer based method is definitely something I need to try.
Millenials are trying to combat the hoarding mentality which came from earlier generations. From Hummels to Longaberger baskets to saving rubber bands and old newspapers, we started this mess! We can learn from this younger generation on this topic.
@@incognitoincignito I was talking mostly about the fact that the US healthcare system is a nightmare hell-scape. The younger gen are simply condensing other generations' knowledge via social media and whatnot. I think "hoarding" made sense to much older generation where everything was expensive and very few things were convenient. A kind of scarcity mindset. Not sure what portion of younger generations, esp. gen z, are doing things "right" and what are totally mind-rotted by being media illiterate like much older generations.
@incognitoincignito 😂😂😂😂😂, but seriously though! I am so disturbed by the number of Storage facilities there are in the US. We all have too much stuff and it is not benign. Look at the environment, for one. Just too much STUFF!!!
Thank you for keeping the dental insurance outcome in the video along with some of your reaction to it and the reframing you did in the moment. That was objectively bad news that removes an element of safety and peace of mind from your situation while also putting additional tasks on your list. It was comforting for me to see that and potentially helpful to others who are struggling. I'm confident that you will figure this thing out and everything will be fine, but that was a very human moment you shared with the world and I appreciate that you are able to trust your viewers with that vulnerability.
I've also heard "If something's worth doing, it's worth doing poorly (I sub poorly w/ 'okay')." If all you can do one day is partially do the thing, you're at least keeping up with it.
@@hellochako One day…you can wash your dishes as fast as you want while thinking of what your mother would say…with a big smirk. 😁 Remember that the next time you’re having to wash her dishes. 💖 ***I still cringe when I think of the way my mom made me do chores, the longest, hardest way possible. You’re not alone.
This is exactly what I needed! I recently went through a breakup and cleaned out storage, my home is full of totes, things I've had for years and never look at. After watching this video I dealt with a stack of paperwork that was just piling up and took a trip to the thrift store for donations. Getting rid of a lot of stuff I don't need! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
I thrifted an old peel-back sticky paper photo album for $1 and i paste everything that's "garbage" but sentimental to me in it. I'll cut out the kind words from cards I've received and lay them down as well, or put a wristband, etc. It's my little book of clutter and it only takes up one slot on my large bookshelf, so no problem to me. It's nice to look back later at things I had completely forgotten I even kept. I also buy closed lid bins and designate them. Like one holds any instruction manual, keyboard key remover, charging cord, etc. It's my 'business and home' box. It's super small. I buy tiny on purpose for my bins as well so they're less annoying and in my face. But i'll purge the contents every now and again.
The way I circumvent the trap of keeping cards now is to take pictures of the cards and keep them saved in a special folder in Google drive. That way I get all the memories and kind words with none of the physical clutter! It was literally life changing. Now I'm feeling extra inspired to knock things out today. Thank you!
This is genius! I used to keep literally all my cards, now I've gotten down to keeping the "special ones". BUT It's still a giant pile taking up clutter in multiple boxes and areas. The pic idea is genius thank u❤
I have been decluttering for a move abroad but I'm struggling so much with getting rid of gifts. And I'm surrounded by people whose love language is giving gifts, so I have a LOT. Anyway this was exactly what I needed to hear, so thank you.
I woke up to this video playing on my phone as I enjoy decluttering videos so much I sleep to them. They are usually pretty quiet. I'm disabled with chronic fatigue and the encouragement of decluttering videos has been enough to get me out of bed for a few 15-30 minutes of thoughtful tossing and moving stuff around most days. What can I say: dream it, do it... Run that marathon in your head and maybe your body will agree you ran that marathon. (Ridiculous!). I've made more progress in the past three months (reducing mountains of extra, unnecessary boxes & packing things up in preparation for setting up an actual office space in my current bedroom) by giving myself permission to watch all these fascinating videos that are ALWAYS about so much more than creating a visually clear space, though that is a goal. It's not the purpose though. The purpose is to give myself permission to ACT, even if it hurts. And so I am. Little bit by baby step I am seeing progress without collapsing my nervous system. I can smile now at my accomplishments rather than feel the pressure of Mt. Doom looming over me every moment of every day stretching into infinity. I am so pleased I added this video to my playlist. Hilarious and SO HONEST. I am watching Annie Hall declutter her space and it is good! CARRY ON! ❤😂🎉😂❤ Thanks for the giggle and the info, though I admit to more than a small spurt of pure jealousy at your exquisite decorative style. Truly fantastic. And you are very cute as well. 😊
Mine is metal tins - candy tins, refillable tins for companies that closed down, gift sets. There are only so many things in my home that need a small container. I also keep telling myself "if I paint this and put on a ribbon it will be cute". But I never buy the paint because I'm convinced it will become clutter!
Literally just finished decluttering and packing our house up because I thought we were moving … only to find out that we’re potentially not moving after all. It’s amazing, however, the amount of clutter we have amassed that I am donating to people who ACTUALLY need it. It worked out after all! ALSO, WE ALL LOVE YOU!!! THANK YOU FOR ALWAYS BEING THE COOLEST AND HELPING WE THE PEOPLE!!!
That's what happened to me in 2014! We were going to move house...and then didn't. I decluttered SO MUCH - the neighbors probably thought we were moving lol! I've been a minimalist ever since!
You succeeded. Finding out there are more steps to take to finish a project, is a win. Had you not attempted at all, you still wouldn't know about the health insurance. Stopping the dental insurance process to take some time to absorb the new info, and make a new plan, still counts as winning! The object was to get as much done in each section as possible, and you succeeded in that goal. You got as far as you could in that moment in time towards gaining dental, so yes you won!
Nice job and thanks for the lesson on keeping old scraps of paper out of misguided guilt that really hit home for me. Those comments were better than years of costly therapy. So simple to understand when you said it. Thank you
Love this whole thing. And the mom part of me is SO PROUD of you for finding out you don't have health insurance. That's huge, and so glad that you found out now rather than in a moment when you really need it but then suddenly don't have it. So it's really great that you put dental insurance on your list! You nailed that whole list, arguably in an even bigger way. I'm not sure if that was a bottle of honey you threw out of the pantry cupboard as 'old,' but FWIW to anyone reading this who doesn't already know, honey never goes bad and never expires! As long as you don't introduce anything into the honey (like, only ever use a clean spoon/dipper/whatever to get honey from the container, don't double dip if you've used that spoon to stir something or have licked it) it has no expiration. Some archaeologists found some honey from 3500 years ago and it was still fresh. Same with 5000-year-old honey. Never goes bad! And if honey crystallizes, gently heating it in a warm water bath can melt down the crystals and make it liquid again (you have to change the water out as it cools). Honey is magical stuff.
I describe it as being so busy, that when you do have free time, you dont want to do anything but lay around- I'm this way. After working 6 days, getting dinner on the table, laundry, running errands, cleaning, etc- in my free time, just laying down and doing nothing is an amazing feeling
I've been decluttering for the past 5 months. Life and mental health have made it feel impossible. Most times I feel like my effort is useless, but when I look around me it's been so worth it. I still have ways to go, so decluttering along with you is the biggest motivation right now and your hillarious!! Thank you!!!
You can do it ! Good job for sticking to it and also remember you're doing well, even if you only declutter one tiny drawer or box ! It's still one less thing to go through :) Good luck !
I've spent days decluttering a chest of drawers full of important papers and stuff - so many decisions and detours down memory lane. There's a stage where everything looks worse. I finally finished it and the contrast is astounding.
Hang in there. I find I can do a declutter session and feel like there wasn’t much progress and the same thing the next day, however by day 3 somehow magically there’s been a huge change and it’s awesome. So my takeaway has been that it all adds up and appears to go in waves. It takes time and is a never ending job but it gets easier as you’ll become so mindful as to what you bring into your home. Take care of you.
@@lorrilewis2178Wow! That stage exists in every knitting project, every paper you write, every school year, every move, every childbirth. I never saw this truth so fully until you said it. Thank you!
the time constraints being so small and you still getting so much done feels rly inspirational and accessible to me will definitely be trying decluttering this way! thank you
Oh my gosh, this is the best decluttering video I ever seen so far and motivate me to declutter my entire house and enjoy the moment. Thank you for uploading this video.
You have such a wholesome, positive, loving fanbase here. They very much reflect the content you put out, and probably do reflect your 'self' as well. I adore watching these and they make my week every time they pop up for me to watch. My family and I live very isolated out in the sticks, so this is my socialisation 😅
This is the funniest, most uplifting thing I’ve seen in a long while. I have accumulated more stuff than I ever have. I think about it constantly, vowing to tackle it the next day. And last night, this occurred to me: I visualized empty drawers, and then thought-if I give all that away, where will “I” be? It was a little scary, but then I thought: where is all the stuff from when I was 5, 14, or 20 years old? I don’t carry all that around, yet I’m still here. I guess I’ll still be me, but maybe free to be somebody new? Thank you for this wonderful help and hope.
27:11 At first glance there was one box, "get dental insurance", however working on that led to the revelation that there were actually a few boxes before that one ("learn that regular health insurance got messed up", "emotionally process", "fix regular health insurance"). During the video ticked off the first 2 of 4 tasks that were actually there! Yes, there was more to do than you knew and that is upsetting. Yes, the originally stated goal didn't get accomplished, and at the same time, that was outside your control. You did 100% did face the issue head on and, on the zoom-out, you made great progress!
This video changed everything for me. It was so hard not to get overwhelmed before but focussing on some small spaces in set periods of time really helped. Thank YOU.
okay, Caroline you need to know this. this way of editing and opening your heart (not too much) and just casually chatting to us like we are two friends is probably the reason I keep referring back to your channel even if it has been months since I watched your videos. I love the cozy and genuine vibe you radiate through your videos. Thank you for taking the time to educate and inspire us.
Caroline, you have no idea how much I need this right now! I've been using your videos, advice and overall vibe to motivate me to get my life together as I'm nearing 30 and I'm just so grateful for your content and your work. Such an inspirational take on life, I love it!
For "Be Present" I can just imagine Caroline racing around the apartment, setting the camera somewhere, run to a spot, and then just stare slowly into the camera like a manic depressive monk.
I'm over 60 & never had a problem with hoarding......until I retired & started crafting. OH MY GOODNESS!!!! I now have a 2,000 sq ft house that is PACKED with crafting supplies!!!! I'm literally drowning in paper, lace, fabric, stamps, magazines, basically every art medium you can imagine. I needed to see this today. I have got to get rid of so much, but why does it feel like I'm throwing myself away? It's an awful feeling, but you make it seem like fun. Thanks for sharing your tips. We all love you & I know I'm really looking forward to your next video. Much love & respect from East Texas
I had excess art supplies because of my hobbies. They were good quality but just more than I needed. I also take adult art classes and noticed that the school I go to had programs for kids too. So, I donated my extra art supplies to an art teacher who teaches drawing to pre-teens. They loved the supplies. Better quality than they are used to AND I know they are being put to good use. Is there a local group that does arts and crafts with kids you can donate to? Summer youth programs abound. Maybe a summer camp or after-school program near you?
If you need more inspiration, find Dawn, The minimal mom on TH-cam. She has helped me so so much with decluttering and I’ve noticed lots of content on crafting stuff.
I read a few comments and I have to agree that continuing with your declutter goal after finding out about the insurance problem is very courageous. I liked the timer that made it a decide and be done with it motivation in your work. I think I will try it.. It surprised me how quickly an area could be improved.
You succeeded that day and helped me through my own sorting challenge. For me, you also hit just the right combination of entertainment, staying on point and sharing of your own internal process and I really connected. Thanks!
As a 57-year old, generally responsible, mostly effective, well-respected professional, I still - STILL - repeatedly discover I’ve made ridiculous mistakes (or occasionally, that unfortunate circumstances have befallen me), like canceling a credit card and unknowingly losing my medical insurance … it’s so frustrating. The only thing that helps me avoid feeling like I’ve put an idiot (me) in charge of my life, is to remind myself that personal growth often takes a “two steps forward, one step back“ pattern. I try to put an action plan in place to keep from making the same mistake again (especially since I know some fresh new mistake is just waiting around the corner for me). 🙄Thanks for always sharing so honestly, Caroline. 🥰
Yup, I thought I was securing my bank account and card by setting daily limits. Only to find out at the end of the month I couldn't pay my rent as the security daily limit, covers bank transfers! And it takes 24 hrs to process an amendment!
I call it the cha cha of life, I am always taking 2 steps forward 1 step back but at least I am going forward even if it is slow progress at least it is progress.😅
This whole build up to calling your mom and she didn’t even answer 😂😂😂 and then just “check” hahaha 😂😂 the impression of you mom on the phone too was also so spot on for parents haha hilarious!!
My mom does the exact same thing! And I think she passed it down to my sister. Everytime my sister calls me she immediately says "Hang on I'm in the drive-thru. Can I get a-"
Caroline! As a fellow person with strong hoarder tendencies I really appreciate this video and advice. Between this and what you said in your last video about trash is still trash, you're just living in it, it has really helped shift my mindset and feel able to declutter in a way where there is less guilt + it is a process with little steps, it doesn't have to be an all day thing. THANK YOU!
This was such a helpful way to think about organizing!!! I find myself getting really overwhelmed because I have too many things I want to tackle, but setting a timer and realizing at least it’s better than before is an awesome approach.
@@Caroline_Winkler Never. (wry grin) I'm almost 70 and STILL live by to do lists. My mother did the same thing. It is our lives. At least we can make some of those lists fun...so, there's that.
I really appreciate your advice; i feel snowed under all the time. I cant even blame my baby because i was probably worse before her but when its tough and im crying about it a video from you always feels so reassuring, kind and down to earth. Sending love from the UK
I'm moving into my first new house soon and I have boxes that I need to declutter from all the moving around nomad life before that I have been scratching my head to do so .. this video is a life saver. Thank you!
Love your whole take on the insurance mix up. Even though it didn’t go as planned, and it feels like you have extra steps to now manage that you didn’t foresee, it’s the baby steps you need to celebrate and be proud of and focus on. You’re one step closer to getting this in order 🎉🎉
I have been putting off watching this because I convinced myself that your idea of clutter was very very minimal and not real. You definitely have less than I do,but this video has been just what I needed to help boost my mood and encourage me to get back to decluttering, but I am going to try your method of timing the task with a written list. Thanks as always!
That little horcrux speech at the end was amazing. Also love the leading by example and taking arguably vague advice such as 'love more' and actually running with it
Thank you, you absolutely helped me lift my spirits and avoided a mood shift into a depressive funk which was looming. Brava, wonderful! My clean home and mental health are due to your show
I cannot tell you how much this video and your “renovating my friend’s room” have helped me. I also struggle with hoarding tendencies, and you have given such poignant advice in such an accessible way. Just thank you 💖
"Holding on to nail stickers is me imagining myself becoming a person that I'm not". Brilliant! I suddenly see how I have a tremendous challenge in getting rid of all the stuff around me, because I don't know who I want to be. To many people have put too much pressure on me to be what they want me to be. Enough of that!
Your "fantasy self". The person who would use this stuff, who we are currently not (and likely never will be). I'm trying to learn who I am, and interestingly, getting rid of stuff is helping me do that. (long, LONG way to go)
Yep. Craft stuff and a gift closet that looks great and doesn’t serve much purpose aside from looking great. I love my friends and family but would rather go out together as my treat instead of shopping under pressure and buying stuff they don’t need and may or may not want. I’m grateful for gifts I receive but I don’t need them and can easily buy stuff I do need. Still, it’s a good looking closet and it does make me happy to look at it and see how organized I can be when I want to be.
@@harpersferrytailspetsittin3814 I relate to all of this...except my gift bag collection is not pretty or in a closet at the moment.... but when I organize something well, I get a huge emotional boost.
I know you will do it when you’re motivated to do it perfectly! The best thing I’ve recently learned about myself is that I can go from Chaos Comfy to Neurotic Perfectionist with unrealistic expectations. So I have a creative and calming closet that provides visual reward if shadowed by its general needs. I also have ALL my paper wrap, ribbon, bags right where I see it and even more importantly it’s ready. I even have scissors and tape!! 😂
The segment at the end was so helpful! I have so many clothing items or trinkets that have been gifted to me but aren’t my style and I feel so guilty getting rid of them. The items do not need to represent the people I love and this is the motivation I needed to declutter!
I just found your TH-cam channel and your enthusiasm has inspired me to organize and declutter my bedroom closet and a cabinet in my laundry room. Thank you!
Depressive episode just finished airing last month so this video came just in time to clean EVERYTHING! So much fabric, so much art supplies, so many books and mail 😭
woof, i sympathize with that feeling. I'm glad you're coming out of it and feeling a little energized! i know how these waves come and go. welcome back
@@karen_lobsternot THE MAIL 😱 I found out that my bf was stacking my mail in the kitchen clutter. Idk why, but going through a stack of papers is The Worst. Maybe I’ll wear gloves, because I fear paper cuts deeply. Solidarity, yall
You did a great job, are you kidding?! Most people cannot bring themselves to get this much done in a day, or clean this much in general. Your tips and videos are always helpful, and you’ve inspired me to do some decluttering of my own after a period of burnout. I wish you luck in fixing your insurance problem, but you did great!
You have succeeded in inspiring and energizing me to the point where I am pausing this video at 2:42 and going to start decluttering this very minute. Because learning that it doesn't have to be (and simply won't be) perfect, but it will be better is a mind-blowing realization for me! Then I'll come back to watch the rest of your video so I can check it off my list. Thank you so, so much!!!!!
I’ve tried to watch so many videos while I declutter (adhd lol) and it’s basically impossible to do so!! But this one was great! I think hearing the timer and your sense or urgency is also helping me work quickly! :) thank you so much ❤
This is how I've been decluttering my home for the past 2 years and it feels so much better. I accomplish something and I don't have to feel exhausted or do it all day just to give myself a pat on the back.
I just quit my course in nusing for health reasons. And I just realise I was making it a big "life long" decision when it's really not. It's really just about what I can do right now and if I regret, it's fine, I can come back when I am better. It helps to put those time frames and realize what we do is not forever, decluttering is nor forever, it doesn't need to be a huge deal. Anyway, thanks foe another amazing video ❤
I love your personality! Your channel has become a favorite part of my day. I watch at the end of my day while enjoying a drink on my patio. You have such a joy about you that is contagious! Thank you for bringing me smiles every day ❤️
I love how this is actually a realistic depiction of what people have to do. It’s not just like something nice and cutsie like going shopping for decoration, going to pilates class or getting a starbucks drink.
Wow, this couldn’t have come at a better time. Here I am in the U.K. ( no need for health insurance, so feeling your pain) and recovering from a serious illness. I had ground to a complete halt trying to dig myself out of a mountain of clutter. My dining table had evolved into a monster “drop zone”. Your vide came up, I watched it once, and then left it playing on repeat for 5 or 6 runs, while I got on with emptying the table! Fabulous. Thank you.
I'm not even half way through this video, and man alive did I need this today. Going to set a timer and tackle some laundry and dishes on my lunch break, then take myself out a dander. Thanks for reminding me change, even a wee bit, can be very impactful. You remind me of that Shakespear quote "Though she be but little, she is fierce" Love from Belfast :)
I love how you are always very authentic in your videos, you put yourself out there making yourself very vulnerable and this takes great courage, so thank you so much for showing parts of you that most of us hide and feel guilty about, but that are very relatable!! I'm sorry that you weren't able to fix your dental care issue, but you can be proud of yourself because you actually did the hardest thing, which is starting :) Looking forward to more great content like this!
I love your channel, you’re a gem. I relate to you so much. Thanks for staying positive, I needed to see that the world doesn’t crash when something goes awry. Quite what I needed to be reminded of today.
Ok so I typically follow a channel for one specific thing like one for home decor, one for humour, one for decluttering tips etc but this? This is everything I could ever want mushed into one beautiful artistic masterpiece. I mean you basically just saved me time so now I have more time to be present and get dental insurance! P.S. the black top perfectly takes you from decluttering to date night! 😘
This declutter video has humor, great advice, and support! Thanks for reminding us to give ourselves grace! Love the timer method! Like how you also include two list for declutter and life. I have been watching Diane in Denmark videos here on TH-cam she uses the timer method when discussing decluttering, too! Diane in Denmark usually does videos on Fridays where she gives four-self assignments one could choose from each week like find new music and try a new recipe. Thanks for the motivation, Caroline!
![[#2024MAMA] ROSÉ (로제), Bruno Mars - APT. | Mnet 241122 방송](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/dgGqD28J6aQ/mqdefault.jpg)
One thing that I learned from Marie Kondo's book that really resonated is that the purpose of a gift is to be given and received. Once that has happened and you've gotten the joy of receiving it, any additional value is just bonus. If you don't get any more value, that's fine and releasing the gift or card is not an act of disrespect.
This is life liberating for me as well!! Thanks for reminding
Also you can always give away a gift to somebody else to make them appreciate it (ofc. for letters this will a little difficult haha).
Thank you
'releasing the gift is not an act of disrespect.' ewww, I see me. thank you!
Huh...I've never thought of it that way. Thank you for that
"Holding onto X is me imagining myself becoming a person that I am not." THIS IS SO TRUE THOUGH!!! And a good way to critically think about decluttering
Also HELLZ YEAH YOU DID AWESOME! Insurance sucks - I found out that I never officially selected a primary physician with my insurance co for my stupid HMO plan (did it at the dr's office and thought that would be enough - merp), so now I need to go through their stupid appeals process on that, so I feel the struggle. But - silver lining! Now you know that there's an issue with your insurance that needs to be addressed. I know it's anxiety inducing in and of itself, but it'd be worse NOT knowing until you're in a sitch where you go to seek care only to be told that you're not actually insured, I think?
This hit. I have a stack of art supplies, and ZERO artistic talent. It's just sitting there telling me, "Yeah, loser, you wasted money on this. You still can't paint or draw, or cross stitch, or take great pictures. Just go play Wordle."
I'm actually an artist and have the same problem -- I feel so guilty!!
i literally had to pause and screamed bc wow WHAT A CALL OUTTTTT
Yes, that so jumped out at me!
I loved the "it doesn't have to be perfect. It just has to be better". it reminded me of how freeing it was years ago when I read that root word for perfect did not mean "without flaws". It simply means "complete".
Oh wow, Thanks for sharing the root word for perfect being "complete". This can make life easy!
I just thought that the English word perfect is from the french. in French the word is Parfait. Which literally means the past participle done as the verb 'faire' is 'to do and 'par' is By or through' basically it absolutely does mean complete @SD-MA
@@lorraine.bernardettehoole7743 That definitely has a certain logic to it. I have a French degree and lived in Paris many years so that appeals to me. But that tiny bit I mentioned came from an article on the etymology of common words that I read years ago---really decades ago---that traced word meanings back to their Latin roots. I enjoyed your comment and it made me root (pun intended) around on the internet to see what I could find. Here's from an article: "The word perfection comes from the Latin perfèctus, from perficĕre, which means to finish or fulfill. While the preposition per adds the idea of fulfillment, the verb fèctus, which comes from fàcere, refers to doing something." I think this makes sense in how it probably wandered from Latin to French to English. Thank you for giving me the chance to think about words this morning. I always enjoy that. Here's the link to the article in case you are interested. It deals mainly with the psychology behind the desire for perfection but is an interesting read. psychology-spot.com/perfection-meaning-etymology/
@jainthorne4136 Thank you for your interesting comment. I never really gave it much thought. It was just something that popped into my head. I've no education about etymology so I was really pleased for your insight. I do have an interest in the way language develops though and English seems to derive from many other Languages. I was told it's a germanic language but it seems to me that many words come from French. Probably because of the Norman invasion and I have been told that French was the tongue of the ruling classes in England at one time. And of course the Roman's got just about everywhere I'm guessing the the French language is even more closely linked to latin. Again thank you for taking the time to reply. 🙂
OH MY thank you for spelling it out for us. edit: sounded kinda sarcastic but I am genuinely excited about root words!
When you found the nail stickers in your credenza & said “me holding onto these nail stickers is me imagining myself becoming a person who I am not” hit hard as I’m looking at a sewing machine I bought three years ago and have not attempted to learn to sew not even once.😂
Time to go dear sewing machine!😊
This! 😅
As someone with adhd this is extremely helpful, and fun. The type of humor is like beyond relatable.
(Also, and I know we’re highlighting the skims tee, but I have to know where the white skirt is from 😍, it’s so lovely)
I love how your videos never end up being what they appear to be at face value. There's always some unexpected twist to the narrative.
Awww I’ve never gotten this comment before but this is always how I’ve hoped they feel!! In editing I sometimes wonder if I’m putting in too much to one video, but I’m so glad to hear u enjoyed it
CALLING YOUR FRIEND MADE ME CRY! It was delightful! Who knew that was gonna be part of decluttering! @@Caroline_Winkler
There's so much empty crap out there that people are calling "content" lol substance is so refreshing and appreciated@@Caroline_Winkler, as are you. ❤
@@Caroline_Winklerit’s so true!! i’m always pleasantly surprised and invested
I KNOW RIGHT! The 2-part love story episode with the cork on the wall absolutely cracked me up. (I did NOT wish some of those people The Best.)
5:38 saying “be present more… and i have two minutes to do that” is a great representation of today’s society 😂
😉
Sometimes being still and quiet is powerful even for a couple of minutes. I am finding it's a simple gift I can give myself. Love the clarity and beauty to be more of myself without distraction. ✨
I died at that part hahahaha
@@INfinite2027 yes! buddhism teaches how to find yourself in the present even just doing the dishes, or going for a walk! a lot of people forget that its more than sitting down to do so because with how active my brain is, i have to have my body moving in order to truly meditate’
@@gabriellaraziah My mind is active also and I love being 'at my still point' or peace while in motion also! Maybe that's when I'm more fully in alignment rather than choosing and in motion due to conditioning. I do love living 'in flow'. Often I'm not so actually being still for a brief time allows a natural reset.
It's so great everyone can experiment and discover what works for them in the moment. 😊
"that thing does not contain my grandma" is precisely the sentiment I needed to hear today.
Me too. And at the Same time the Nail Stickers would have been the only thing I would have been delighted to find. And the pouch with the Green leaves. Yeah, i Got that it's about getting rid If stuff. Totally.
Same.
I laughed, out loud, multiple times. Not only was this fun and realistic but your comedic timing and editing style are HILARIOUS. So much fun to watch! Thanks for this refreshing take!
I love the idea of clutter as horcruxes. It perfectly encapsulates the specific kind of personal guilt and anthropomorphism I bring to objects.
Yes, this really helps me, too.
honestly, props to you for continuing the video right after that big demoralizing insurance issue. and appreciation to you for showing that it was actually bothering you while you did your best to dust off and carry on. you're my absolute favorite youtuber for how real you are when things start to suck, rather than edit it out. to me that's a courageous thing to do. super awesome stuff, proud of you!
I agree! I resonated with that the most, life constantly throwing curve balls…and damn can they hurt!
This. That to-do list item is peak reality
My lil 3.5 year old baby girl just ran over from the other room and asked what I was watching, and as she peered over my shoulder she goes “WHOA, She’s prettay!!” 😊 so sweet! Love ur channel!! Love me a frantic declutter as well.
PLZ TELL YOUR DAUGHTER HOW MUCH I NEEDED THIS TODAY
I love that you finished the closet after the terrible- awful discovery. You didn’t wilt and fold. Victory.
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ yes
If I wilted at every failure, I’d be in nearly nonstop wilt 😂 there’s no time!
Caroline, I stumbled across your channel when my husband clicked on random interior design TH-cam video while I was laid up on the couch after tearing my meniscus. I have watched nearly all of your videos and this is my favorite by far. Your “be present for 2 minutes ” montage was perfection.
But I just want to say that you are such an inspiration. I live in a small town in VA and there isn’t much big department store shopping, but there is a lot of antique/vintage stores! And now because of you, I started to thrift and shop at antique stores and I love it!
And when you said that no one is going to die because you put a nail in your wall…I needed to hear that so badly. I suffer from being a perfectionist and I have a difficult time committing to a design because I’m worried it will be “wrong”! Thank you for being such a positive corner of the internet. I absolutely love your apartment decor and look forward to watching more of your videos. ❤
So refreshing to see a You Tuber share all the messy stuff we rarely see on here. Thank you. I can so much more relate to you.
The 2 minutes of you being present might be the best thing ever committed to the internet.
Agreed, I laughed so hard.
It was exactly how I feel about Being Present, turned into interpretive standing
So freaking genius. At first I was like.. are.. are we gonna watch her be present for the entire two minutes? Then was quickly delighted that we watched her be present for the entire two minutes.
@@claremiller9979 Interpretive standing! Brilliant. Hilarious!
Yes! I came to say this. Plus baby tee section ❤
I stepped away from a marriage that was killing me and went to stay with my sister for "a couple weeks" that turned into 6 months. Being semi homeless for hakf a year taught me a LOT about what I need, what I like, what makes me feel safe and happy, and what was just taking up real estate in my physical or emotional domain.
I love this comment. And it makes me very happy for you. You did the unimaginable at the time, I’m sure, and it sounds like it served you so well
Good for you! I wish I was as brave.
@@MeHere650 You are.
@@MeHere650you’re not alone. I’m procrastinating the same inevitability 😖 We can do this ❤
@@MeHere650I had to leave when the death threats began. I took 4 kids under 8 with me. Hardest and best thing I have ever done. We are all safe, alive, and much better off for getting away from the terrors of his rage. The kids are all adults and doing well. God carried us every step of the way.
I thought that by leaving, I would be flinging myself and our kids off a cliff. But I found that there were steps on the cliff face I could take, one by one. An abuser will convince you you can never make it on your own, but that's a lie.
"Me imagining myself becoming a person that I am not." I love it. I can relate.
You can't become anyone else than yourself. You can only repeat patterns that you either have adapted from others or created yourself. You always choose yourself how you express yourself.
Yeaaah!
Awwww, when your friend Ashley picked up in shock, I could really feel all her emotions! I bet that your call made her day! ❤❤❤ Me too I like to call my friends and family to say hello, and that is when you notice not many people care about doing the same, even if it is 10 seconds of their time.
Glad you call her! 😊
Don't forget to call Ashley kore often to see how she's doing! 🤗
Your friend's reaction to your call is the most wholesome thing I have seen today! Protect that woman at all costs! 😂❤
I lost my lovely Mom last week so please call your Mom and tell her you love her as much as you can ❤
As flimsy as these words are - I am so sorry to hear that. Truly. I haven’t felt that grief first person but I’ve witnessed it up close and I can’t wrap my mind around it. Hang in there. I hope you get a big hug today ❤
Hug your mom for me too - I lost my mother very suddenly 3 years ago. Don’t take your mom for granted.
hugs all around. It gets easier eventually, but the first year is tough. Like sobbing in the middle of an aisle of greeting cards tough. I lost my mom 14 years ago to cancer, and I still have a bad day sometimes. I also try to keep going in case she’s checking in on me lol.
It's almost 7 years for me. I hope the next few months are kind to you and I wish you rest.
It'll be 10 years this October that my mom passed, and I still would like to call her, but the sting of it eventually becomes more bearable ❤
“What is this pleasure?”
That was TOO SWEET, oh my word! ❤ 11:55
Funny, I just sent this comment I found to my daughter . “Today, I completed a chore I have been putting off for 7 months. It took 12 minutes. I will learn nothing from this. Great vid !!
“I will learn nothing from this” 😂😂 same!
The struggle is real! I’ve done similar things and also not learned. 😂😢
And how many thousand times in my life have I done the exact same thing. 😔
Learn nothing!! Otherwise idk what content to make
@@Caroline_Winkler please do one on how not to be a procrastinator! Thank you in advance.
16:28 It's gotta be a universal phenomenon. I have absolutely NO CLUE what my mom is going in the background, but you freaking NAILED THE SOUND. I honestly just thought it was me and I was being a little egoistic for being irritated with her for messing with stuff while I'm trying to talk to her over the phone, but you made me feel validated and seen with that newspaper crumpling and your own annoyance with it. So thank you 🙏
_Hilarious._ Def be gracious, it could very well be her/their way of multitasking, in order to accomplish things on _her/their_ list, while also making time to catch up with you.
You’re the best! So authentic. Just watching you be you is so healing and inspiring.
The clock would give me anxiety😂
I create a playlist that is exactly the time I plan to spend on decluttering and measure the time I want to spend on each task in songs!
That is an excellent point and an excellent tip. ❤
Haha I dance to the songs so I can’t! But love this for you 😂😂
Great, now I need to create a playlist before I can do my chores. I’m losing ground!
wow, great advice right there, i love this!! i already measure distances in songs, like: how many songs to get to work in the morning...
I get anxious but maybe it’s because I am old enough to remember a tv show called Beat the Clock ⏰ that it’s natural for me to try and do exactly that. As long as whatever we do works for us! (And I would lose time dancing around. 😂)
I played a game while watching. At each section break I got up and did one small chore that took only a few mins. Empty the vacuum, take down the dishes, start a load of laundry... And I got a lot done!!
Awww this is such a fun idea!!
Brill8ant!
I love your videos. My daughter and I share them. She'll get a kick out of your impression of your Mom. I do the same thing!
Cleaning clutter can be overwhelming. Thank you for your video! 💖
sometimes when you declutter your life you discover a new area to declutter. that's why the dental insurance task was great. bc imagine if you DIDN'T push yourself to do it today, and maybe you didn't discover your insurance thing until after a health emergency of some kind. definitely a win. you'll sort the whole thing out and be in much better shape soon.
I use timers all the time but never thought of making a list with time limits for each task, that's brilliant.
Also due to your discussion of hoarding and greeting cards in a prior video, I was able to take the greeting card from my doctor's office wishing me well after my surgery last week and release it to the recycling bin. I would have held onto it otherwise (don't ask me why, madness is only answer).
You succeeded, and being an adult sucks, but you did it. You uncovered a much bigger problem before it became a huge one for you, and that's a win.
Fellow millennial here. I have a totally different lifestyle than you and we probably wouldn’t agree on lots of things, but I love your channel. I grew up in a VERY tidy home. Two younger siblings 5 and 9 years younger than me. I now have 6 of my own kiddos each a little over 2 years apart. On top of all that my hubby is in the medical field and I have to do my best to work through various stages of our life together knowing he just can’t be present. Our home build took an 2 extra months longer than it was supposed to so we lived in Airbnb’s all summer. All 8 of us 😳We FINALLY moved into our dream home in July, but now everything is EVERYWHERE and your video is helping me rev up for Monday 💪🏼 sorry about your insurance, but thank you for the motivation. Your quick timer based method is definitely something I need to try.
I was not expecting this episode of decluttering to become the height of millennial existential adulthood drama in the United States.
I know. I should have known it would come to this
Millenials are trying to combat the hoarding mentality which came from earlier generations. From Hummels to Longaberger baskets to saving rubber bands and old newspapers, we started this mess! We can learn from this younger generation on this topic.
@@incognitoincignito I was talking mostly about the fact that the US healthcare system is a nightmare hell-scape. The younger gen are simply condensing other generations' knowledge via social media and whatnot. I think "hoarding" made sense to much older generation where everything was expensive and very few things were convenient. A kind of scarcity mindset. Not sure what portion of younger generations, esp. gen z, are doing things "right" and what are totally mind-rotted by being media illiterate like much older generations.
I refuse to clutter and the more I get rid of, the freer I feeeeeeeeeeeel.
@incognitoincignito 😂😂😂😂😂, but seriously though! I am so disturbed by the number of Storage facilities there are in the US. We all have too much stuff and it is not benign. Look at the environment, for one. Just too much STUFF!!!
Thank you for keeping the dental insurance outcome in the video along with some of your reaction to it and the reframing you did in the moment. That was objectively bad news that removes an element of safety and peace of mind from your situation while also putting additional tasks on your list. It was comforting for me to see that and potentially helpful to others who are struggling. I'm confident that you will figure this thing out and everything will be fine, but that was a very human moment you shared with the world and I appreciate that you are able to trust your viewers with that vulnerability.
I was hoping someone will mention this in the comment when I started scrolling. Glad you did. Caroline, your audience has done you justice!
Same, i was looking for this comment. Her saying "good news is now I know" was great.
I agree. Such a good model of how to bad news.
I swear, this is the beauty of CAROLINE 😍
I always tell my kids, “if you don’t like a chore, do it fast” !!! I swear you are channeling the ethos of our existence Caroline!
I've also heard "If something's worth doing, it's worth doing poorly (I sub poorly w/ 'okay')." If all you can do one day is partially do the thing, you're at least keeping up with it.
Noo mam thats not how this works 😢😢 my mom would beat my ahh if i wash dishes too fast. There wilo still be yuckies if i wash fast 😂
@@hellochako One day…you can wash your dishes as fast as you want while thinking of what your mother would say…with a big smirk. 😁
Remember that the next time you’re having to wash her dishes. 💖
***I still cringe when I think of the way my mom made me do chores, the longest, hardest way possible. You’re not alone.
This is exactly what I needed! I recently went through a breakup and cleaned out storage, my home is full of totes, things I've had for years and never look at. After watching this video I dealt with a stack of paperwork that was just piling up and took a trip to the thrift store for donations. Getting rid of a lot of stuff I don't need! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Your “be present” made my entire day. Thank you for being you and sharing that with us
I thrifted an old peel-back sticky paper photo album for $1 and i paste everything that's "garbage" but sentimental to me in it. I'll cut out the kind words from cards I've received and lay them down as well, or put a wristband, etc. It's my little book of clutter and it only takes up one slot on my large bookshelf, so no problem to me. It's nice to look back later at things I had completely forgotten I even kept.
I also buy closed lid bins and designate them. Like one holds any instruction manual, keyboard key remover, charging cord, etc. It's my 'business and home' box. It's super small. I buy tiny on purpose for my bins as well so they're less annoying and in my face. But i'll purge the contents every now and again.
That’s such a good idea! I’m going to do this with my box of cards!
This is what scrapbooks were before they became an industry!
The way I circumvent the trap of keeping cards now is to take pictures of the cards and keep them saved in a special folder in Google drive. That way I get all the memories and kind words with none of the physical clutter! It was literally life changing.
Now I'm feeling extra inspired to knock things out today. Thank you!
Brilliant idea about cards.
This is genius! I used to keep literally all my cards, now I've gotten down to keeping the "special ones". BUT It's still a giant pile taking up clutter in multiple boxes and areas. The pic idea is genius thank u❤
Love this idea!!
Yes, I will watch while living in squalor, thank you
Excellent. Plz proceed.
Lol, so me! My bedroom is an atrocity, while I lie in bed and watch Caroline make her already awesome place even more amazing.
@@littleone31917these are the kind of comments I came for ! 😂🙌🏻
I have been decluttering for a move abroad but I'm struggling so much with getting rid of gifts. And I'm surrounded by people whose love language is giving gifts, so I have a LOT. Anyway this was exactly what I needed to hear, so thank you.
I woke up to this video playing on my phone as I enjoy decluttering videos so much I sleep to them. They are usually pretty quiet.
I'm disabled with chronic fatigue and the encouragement of decluttering videos has been enough to get me out of bed for a few 15-30 minutes of thoughtful tossing and moving stuff around most days. What can I say: dream it, do it... Run that marathon in your head and maybe your body will agree you ran that marathon. (Ridiculous!).
I've made more progress in the past three months (reducing mountains of extra, unnecessary boxes & packing things up in preparation for setting up an actual office space in my current bedroom) by giving myself permission to watch all these fascinating videos that are ALWAYS about so much more than creating a visually clear space, though that is a goal. It's not the purpose though. The purpose is to give myself permission to ACT, even if it hurts. And so I am. Little bit by baby step I am seeing progress without collapsing my nervous system. I can smile now at my accomplishments rather than feel the pressure of Mt. Doom looming over me every moment of every day stretching into infinity.
I am so pleased I added this video to my playlist. Hilarious and SO HONEST. I am watching Annie Hall declutter her space and it is good! CARRY ON!
❤😂🎉😂❤
Thanks for the giggle and the info, though I admit to more than a small spurt of pure jealousy at your exquisite decorative style. Truly fantastic. And you are very cute as well. 😊
'Tiny boxes, that's my weakness! ' I feel seen ❤😊😅
Same!!
Yup 😂
Mine is metal tins - candy tins, refillable tins for companies that closed down, gift sets. There are only so many things in my home that need a small container. I also keep telling myself "if I paint this and put on a ribbon it will be cute". But I never buy the paint because I'm convinced it will become clutter!
Same. I love boxes. And cute small jars...
Ditto here. @@quietlychaotic
Literally just finished decluttering and packing our house up because I thought we were moving … only to find out that we’re potentially not moving after all. It’s amazing, however, the amount of clutter we have amassed that I am donating to people who ACTUALLY need it. It worked out after all!
ALSO, WE ALL LOVE YOU!!! THANK YOU FOR ALWAYS BEING THE COOLEST AND HELPING WE THE PEOPLE!!!
That's what happened to me in 2014! We were going to move house...and then didn't. I decluttered SO MUCH - the neighbors probably thought we were moving lol! I've been a minimalist ever since!
@@SewGladYoureHereWell done!
A true not-having-their-life-together-person wouldn't have known that they don't have health insurance in 5 days. You are on top of your game!!!!
THIS IS SO TRUE
You succeeded. Finding out there are more steps to take to finish a project, is a win. Had you not attempted at all, you still wouldn't know about the health insurance. Stopping the dental insurance process to take some time to absorb the new info, and make a new plan, still counts as winning! The object was to get as much done in each section as possible, and you succeeded in that goal. You got as far as you could in that moment in time towards gaining dental, so yes you won!
Nice job and thanks for the lesson on keeping old scraps of paper out of misguided guilt that really hit home for me. Those comments were better than years of costly therapy. So simple to understand when you said it. Thank you
Love this whole thing. And the mom part of me is SO PROUD of you for finding out you don't have health insurance. That's huge, and so glad that you found out now rather than in a moment when you really need it but then suddenly don't have it. So it's really great that you put dental insurance on your list! You nailed that whole list, arguably in an even bigger way.
I'm not sure if that was a bottle of honey you threw out of the pantry cupboard as 'old,' but FWIW to anyone reading this who doesn't already know, honey never goes bad and never expires! As long as you don't introduce anything into the honey (like, only ever use a clean spoon/dipper/whatever to get honey from the container, don't double dip if you've used that spoon to stir something or have licked it) it has no expiration. Some archaeologists found some honey from 3500 years ago and it was still fresh. Same with 5000-year-old honey. Never goes bad! And if honey crystallizes, gently heating it in a warm water bath can melt down the crystals and make it liquid again (you have to change the water out as it cools). Honey is magical stuff.
And I suppose this would be a good place to wonder about whether your brother is making more honey jars?
“Im busy and im lazy, that’s really hard to embody” 🌸
I describe it as being so busy, that when you do have free time, you dont want to do anything but lay around- I'm this way. After working 6 days, getting dinner on the table, laundry, running errands, cleaning, etc- in my free time, just laying down and doing nothing is an amazing feeling
I've been decluttering for the past 5 months. Life and mental health have made it feel impossible. Most times I feel like my effort is useless, but when I look around me it's been so worth it. I still have ways to go, so decluttering along with you is the biggest motivation right now and your hillarious!! Thank you!!!
You can do it ! Good job for sticking to it and also remember you're doing well, even if you only declutter one tiny drawer or box ! It's still one less thing to go through :) Good luck !
I've spent days decluttering a chest of drawers full of important papers and stuff - so many decisions and detours down memory lane. There's a stage where everything looks worse. I finally finished it and the contrast is astounding.
Hang in there. I find I can do a declutter session and feel like there wasn’t much progress and the same thing the next day, however by day 3 somehow magically there’s been a huge change and it’s awesome. So my takeaway has been that it all adds up and appears to go in waves. It takes time and is a never ending job but it gets easier as you’ll become so mindful as to what you bring into your home. Take care of you.
@@lorrilewis2178Wow! That stage exists in every knitting project, every paper you write, every school year, every move, every childbirth. I never saw this truth so fully until you said it. Thank you!
@@littleone31917 Yeah. It's so true.
the time constraints being so small and you still getting so much done feels rly inspirational and accessible to me
will definitely be trying decluttering this way! thank you
Oh my gosh, this is the best decluttering video I ever seen so far and motivate me to declutter my entire house and enjoy the moment. Thank you for uploading this video.
You have such a wholesome, positive, loving fanbase here. They very much reflect the content you put out, and probably do reflect your 'self' as well. I adore watching these and they make my week every time they pop up for me to watch. My family and I live very isolated out in the sticks, so this is my socialisation 😅
It is such a great place in the comments here. I’m so happy this group exists, it’s such a nice place ❤
This is the funniest, most uplifting thing I’ve seen in a long while. I have accumulated more stuff than I ever have. I think about it constantly, vowing to tackle it the next day. And last night, this occurred to me: I visualized empty drawers, and then thought-if I give all that away, where will “I” be? It was a little scary, but then I thought: where is all the stuff from when I was 5, 14, or 20 years old? I don’t carry all that around, yet I’m still here. I guess I’ll still be me, but maybe free to be somebody new? Thank you for this wonderful help and hope.
Great insight
What a great way of putting it! ❤
😊
@@littleone31917😊
@@loveshell6945😊
27:11 At first glance there was one box, "get dental insurance", however working on that led to the revelation that there were actually a few boxes before that one ("learn that regular health insurance got messed up", "emotionally process", "fix regular health insurance"). During the video ticked off the first 2 of 4 tasks that were actually there! Yes, there was more to do than you knew and that is upsetting. Yes, the originally stated goal didn't get accomplished, and at the same time, that was outside your control. You did 100% did face the issue head on and, on the zoom-out, you made great progress!
This video changed everything for me. It was so hard not to get overwhelmed before but focussing on some small spaces in set periods of time really helped. Thank YOU.
okay, Caroline you need to know this. this way of editing and opening your heart (not too much) and just casually chatting to us like we are two friends is probably the reason I keep referring back to your channel even if it has been months since I watched your videos. I love the cozy and genuine vibe you radiate through your videos. Thank you for taking the time to educate and inspire us.
Caroline, you have no idea how much I need this right now! I've been using your videos, advice and overall vibe to motivate me to get my life together as I'm nearing 30 and I'm just so grateful for your content and your work. Such an inspirational take on life, I love it!
That is so nice to hear! I am always having to re-muster up motivation, so you’re not alone. I’m glad this helps!
For "Be Present" I can just imagine Caroline racing around the apartment, setting the camera somewhere, run to a spot, and then just stare slowly into the camera like a manic depressive monk.
I'm over 60 & never had a problem with hoarding......until I retired & started crafting. OH MY GOODNESS!!!! I now have a 2,000 sq ft house that is PACKED with crafting supplies!!!! I'm literally drowning in paper, lace, fabric, stamps, magazines, basically every art medium you can imagine. I needed to see this today. I have got to get rid of so much, but why does it feel like I'm throwing myself away? It's an awful feeling, but you make it seem like fun. Thanks for sharing your tips. We all love you & I know I'm really looking forward to your next video. Much love & respect from East Texas
Please! Especially if kids will inherit the clean up 😂
Crafting is dangerous like that. 😂
I had excess art supplies because of my hobbies. They were good quality but just more than I needed. I also take adult art classes and noticed that the school I go to had programs for kids too. So, I donated my extra art supplies to an art teacher who teaches drawing to pre-teens. They loved the supplies. Better quality than they are used to AND I know they are being put to good use. Is there a local group that does arts and crafts with kids you can donate to? Summer youth programs abound. Maybe a summer camp or after-school program near you?
If you need more inspiration, find Dawn, The minimal mom on TH-cam. She has helped me so so much with decluttering and I’ve noticed lots of content on crafting stuff.
Success. I especially enjoy dropping whole boxes of storage on the floor and having an impromptu two-minute declutter.
I read a few comments and I have to agree that continuing with your declutter goal after finding out about the insurance problem is very courageous. I liked the timer that made it a decide and be done with it motivation in your work. I think I will try it.. It surprised me how quickly an area could be improved.
You succeeded that day and helped me through my own sorting challenge. For me, you also hit just the right combination of entertainment, staying on point and sharing of your own internal process and I really connected. Thanks!
As a 57-year old, generally responsible, mostly effective, well-respected professional, I still - STILL - repeatedly discover I’ve made ridiculous mistakes (or occasionally, that unfortunate circumstances have befallen me), like canceling a credit card and unknowingly losing my medical insurance … it’s so frustrating. The only thing that helps me avoid feeling like I’ve put an idiot (me) in charge of my life, is to remind myself that personal growth often takes a “two steps forward, one step back“ pattern. I try to put an action plan in place to keep from making the same mistake again (especially since I know some fresh new mistake is just waiting around the corner for me). 🙄Thanks for always sharing so honestly, Caroline. 🥰
Haha! ...same age, same circumstances. Thank you for letting me know I'm not the only idiot❤
Yup, I thought I was securing my bank account and card by setting daily limits. Only to find out at the end of the month I couldn't pay my rent as the security daily limit, covers bank transfers! And it takes 24 hrs to process an amendment!
I call it the cha cha of life, I am always taking 2 steps forward 1 step back but at least I am going forward even if it is slow progress at least it is progress.😅
This whole build up to calling your mom and she didn’t even answer 😂😂😂 and then just “check” hahaha 😂😂 the impression of you mom on the phone too was also so spot on for parents haha hilarious!!
My mom does the exact same thing! And I think she passed it down to my sister. Everytime my sister calls me she immediately says "Hang on I'm in the drive-thru. Can I get a-"
Caroline! As a fellow person with strong hoarder tendencies I really appreciate this video and advice. Between this and what you said in your last video about trash is still trash, you're just living in it, it has really helped shift my mindset and feel able to declutter in a way where there is less guilt + it is a process with little steps, it doesn't have to be an all day thing.
THANK YOU!
This was such a helpful way to think about organizing!!! I find myself getting really overwhelmed because I have too many things I want to tackle, but setting a timer and realizing at least it’s better than before is an awesome approach.
"Better than before." Really valuable.
I'm absolutely obsessed with your videos. You are amazing and thank you for being so real and just so YOU❤
Just got home from work with a long to do list of things I couldn't be bothered to do - thank you for the perfect motivation / company
Sometimes I feel like I live in a to-do list. When does it end
@@Caroline_Winkler Never. (wry grin) I'm almost 70 and STILL live by to do lists. My mother did the same thing. It is our lives. At least we can make some of those lists fun...so, there's that.
@@Caroline_Winkler One of my therapists once said when there stop being things to do, it will mean you have died.
Enjoy the present moment 🤣 that sequence
Tryna knock it down to 90sec next time 😅
She's just genious, right?!😂
OMG that was my favorite part of the video!!!
As a yoga teacher it made me laugh so much 🙈😅
At first you’re like this is a ridiculous sequence but then you realize… no… I think I actually do need to have that present moment sequence 😂
I really appreciate your advice; i feel snowed under all the time. I cant even blame my baby because i was probably worse before her but when its tough and im crying about it a video from you always feels so reassuring, kind and down to earth. Sending love from the UK
I'm moving into my first new house soon and I have boxes that I need to declutter from all the moving around nomad life before that I have been scratching my head to do so .. this video is a life saver. Thank you!
וואוו
הדרך שלך להתמודג עם הדברים מהממת
את כל כך אותנטית
מהרגע הראשון של הסרטון הכל רץ והכל מענין
מלא בהצלחה
את מוסיפה המון ליוטיוב!
Love your whole take on the insurance mix up. Even though it didn’t go as planned, and it feels like you have extra steps to now manage that you didn’t foresee, it’s the baby steps you need to celebrate and be proud of and focus on. You’re one step closer to getting this in order 🎉🎉
Well, isn’t that always the way with insurance 😂
I have been putting off watching this because I convinced myself that your idea of clutter was very very minimal and not real. You definitely have less than I do,but this video has been just what I needed to help boost my mood and encourage me to get back to decluttering, but I am going to try your method of timing the task with a written list. Thanks as always!
this is art. the whole last frame is extra iconic
That little horcrux speech at the end was amazing. Also love the leading by example and taking arguably vague advice such as 'love more' and actually running with it
Thank you, you absolutely helped me lift my spirits and avoided a mood shift into a depressive funk which was looming. Brava, wonderful! My clean home and mental health are due to your show
I cannot tell you how much this video and your “renovating my friend’s room” have helped me. I also struggle with hoarding tendencies, and you have given such poignant advice in such an accessible way. Just thank you 💖
"Holding on to nail stickers is me imagining myself becoming a person that I'm not". Brilliant! I suddenly see how I have a tremendous challenge in getting rid of all the stuff around me, because I don't know who I want to be. To many people have put too much pressure on me to be what they want me to be. Enough of that!
Your "fantasy self". The person who would use this stuff, who we are currently not (and likely never will be). I'm trying to learn who I am, and interestingly, getting rid of stuff is helping me do that. (long, LONG way to go)
Yep. Craft stuff and a gift closet that looks great and doesn’t serve much purpose aside from looking great. I love my friends and family but would rather go out together as my treat instead of shopping under pressure and buying stuff they don’t need and may or may not want. I’m grateful for gifts I receive but I don’t need them and can easily buy stuff I do need.
Still, it’s a good looking closet and it does make me happy to look at it and see how organized I can be when I want to be.
@@harpersferrytailspetsittin3814 I relate to all of this...except my gift bag collection is not pretty or in a closet at the moment.... but when I organize something well, I get a huge emotional boost.
I know you will do it when you’re motivated to do it perfectly! The best thing I’ve recently learned about myself is that I can go from Chaos Comfy to Neurotic Perfectionist with unrealistic expectations. So I have a creative and calming closet that provides visual reward if shadowed by its general needs. I also have ALL my paper wrap, ribbon, bags right where I see it and even more importantly it’s ready. I even have scissors and tape!! 😂
@@harpersferrytailspetsittin3814 Great!
The segment at the end was so helpful! I have so many clothing items or trinkets that have been gifted to me but aren’t my style and I feel so guilty getting rid of them. The items do not need to represent the people I love and this is the motivation I needed to declutter!
i did this with you just now and it was CRAZY. made a huge impact. thanks for the idea and the company!
I just found your TH-cam channel and your enthusiasm has inspired me to organize and declutter my bedroom closet and a cabinet in my laundry room. Thank you!
Depressive episode just finished airing last month so this video came just in time to clean EVERYTHING! So much fabric, so much art supplies, so many books and mail 😭
woof, i sympathize with that feeling. I'm glad you're coming out of it and feeling a little energized! i know how these waves come and go. welcome back
I am SO stealing “depressive episode just finished airing” freaking amazing verbiage!
@@karen_lobsternot THE MAIL 😱 I found out that my bf was stacking my mail in the kitchen clutter. Idk why, but going through a stack of papers is The Worst. Maybe I’ll wear gloves, because I fear paper cuts deeply.
Solidarity, yall
Mail is the worst. When we moved I decluttered bags and bags of unopened mail…out of sight, out of mind.
@@karen_lobster OMG yes!!! This phrasing is everything and will be adding it to my reframing toolkit! 👏🙌
You did a great job, are you kidding?! Most people cannot bring themselves to get this much done in a day, or clean this much in general. Your tips and videos are always helpful, and you’ve inspired me to do some decluttering of my own after a period of burnout. I wish you luck in fixing your insurance problem, but you did great!
I started watching you before you even had 100k followers and now you’re working with skims! you go girl 🎉
You have succeeded in inspiring and energizing me to the point where I am pausing this video at 2:42 and going to start decluttering this very minute. Because learning that it doesn't have to be (and simply won't be) perfect, but it will be better is a mind-blowing realization for me! Then I'll come back to watch the rest of your video so I can check it off my list. Thank you so, so much!!!!!
I’ve tried to watch so many videos while I declutter (adhd lol) and it’s basically impossible to do so!! But this one was great! I think hearing the timer and your sense or urgency is also helping me work quickly! :) thank you so much ❤
This is how I've been decluttering my home for the past 2 years and it feels so much better. I accomplish something and I don't have to feel exhausted or do it all day just to give myself a pat on the back.
I just quit my course in nusing for health reasons. And I just realise I was making it a big "life long" decision when it's really not. It's really just about what I can do right now and if I regret, it's fine, I can come back when I am better.
It helps to put those time frames and realize what we do is not forever, decluttering is nor forever, it doesn't need to be a huge deal.
Anyway, thanks foe another amazing video ❤
The scene where you called your friend and she was so excited made me tear up. ❤
Same..
I love your personality! Your channel has become a favorite part of my day. I watch at the end of my day while enjoying a drink on my patio. You have such a joy about you that is contagious! Thank you for bringing me smiles every day ❤️
I love how this is actually a realistic depiction of what people have to do. It’s not just like something nice and cutsie like going shopping for decoration, going to pilates class or getting a starbucks drink.
Wow, this couldn’t have come at a better time. Here I am in the U.K. ( no need for health insurance, so feeling your pain) and recovering from a serious illness. I had ground to a complete halt trying to dig myself out of a mountain of clutter. My dining table had evolved into a monster “drop zone”. Your vide came up, I watched it once, and then left it playing on repeat for 5 or 6 runs, while I got on with emptying the table! Fabulous. Thank you.
Time blocked list and decluttering frequently is brilliant!
I'm not even half way through this video, and man alive did I need this today. Going to set a timer and tackle some laundry and dishes on my lunch break, then take myself out a dander. Thanks for reminding me change, even a wee bit, can be very impactful. You remind me of that Shakespear quote "Though she be but little, she is fierce" Love from Belfast :)
I love how you are always very authentic in your videos, you put yourself out there making yourself very vulnerable and this takes great courage, so thank you so much for showing parts of you that most of us hide and feel guilty about, but that are very relatable!! I'm sorry that you weren't able to fix your dental care issue, but you can be proud of yourself because you actually did the hardest thing, which is starting :) Looking forward to more great content like this!
I love your channel, you’re a gem. I relate to you so much. Thanks for staying positive, I needed to see that the world doesn’t crash when something goes awry. Quite what I needed to be reminded of today.
Ok so I typically follow a channel for one specific thing like one for home decor, one for humour, one for decluttering tips etc but this? This is everything I could ever want mushed into one beautiful artistic masterpiece. I mean you basically just saved me time so now I have more time to be present and get dental insurance!
P.S. the black top perfectly takes you from decluttering to date night! 😘
This declutter video has humor, great advice, and support! Thanks for reminding us to give ourselves grace! Love the timer method! Like how you also include two list for declutter and life. I have been watching Diane in Denmark videos here on TH-cam she uses the timer method when discussing decluttering, too! Diane in Denmark usually does videos on Fridays where she gives four-self assignments one could choose from each week like find new music and try a new recipe. Thanks for the motivation, Caroline!
Love Diane in Denmark and I hope she reaches her goal of 100k!
screaming at your low-key relieved reaction to mom not picking up ...still counts as us doing our daughterly duty!!
i love you added some moments for yourself and people around u!
I would absolutely love if you did a lil series with that type of checklist. It was honestly so inspirational and made me laugh as well