If you're wondering why I brought out the big mic 🎙 It was so hot during filming that I kept sweating off my tiny mic that I always hide underneath my shirt with some duct tape. 😅 Gotta love summertime, haha!
I am a psychiatric RN at a state ran psychiatric hospital in Texas. I love caring for people and in the end of 2021,for the first time I was attacked by a patient. It sent me into a major depression and high anxiety state. At first I stayed home for 1 month and went back. Then a few months later in June of 2022, I started having anxiety attacks at work. I am a HSP, and I guess the attack just shattered me. I still have not gone back so it has been one year. My job does not pay me and it is getting difficult to manage financially for me and my husband. I find refuge in your channel. I just recently discovered it and happy I did! Thank you so very much for your inspiring content. I am definitely learning ways to be happier and more at peace from you. Much love from Texas!
I just got our of the hospital yesterday, I cannot image ever harming a medical worker!! To me, you are all Angels on Earth and I've only had the upmost respect and admiration. I am a ESP and huge empath so understand you. Blessings to you in your recovery. x's fro, NM!
Bless you. Having to experience something like that in your profession when you just want to make a difference and care for people. Personally I believe they should still be paying you and offering counselling or some help for anxiety or ptsd if you found it useful. Totally understandable. I get tremendous anxiety about going into hospital from a bad experience. Minimalism is helping distract myself from thinking too much and helping me more than I thought possible. Hugs and best wishes you x
1:25 all or nothing declittering-make a little bit 2:00 store tricks 3:02 prefer gain over losing-decluttering is not losing 3:46 lost or unsure - buying as security blanket 4:46 afraid of uncovering your pain (in the closet) 5:29 scarcity mindset 6:10 you might need it in the future 6:53 feel bad letting things go 7:28 don't want to waste money spent 8:05 insecurities over buying the product 9:08 things don't have a home 9:36 decision fatigue 11:34 limiting beliefs 12:18 you're procrastinating 12:44 Don't want to throw things 13:21 seeing doesn't mean owning 13:57 assign meaning to many things 14:45 don't have a system for traveling items 15:16 you like things that you own 16:02 you don't declutter, just pushing things around 16:31 buying things that you don't need 17:26 buying things fir special occasions 18:02 sales 18:25 keep things in the wrong place 18:51 living with wrong people
Wonderful video content ….. the one that resonates with me the most is the idea of “just because it’s pretty, doesn’t mean that I need to take it home!” I’m guilty of this !!!
I always tell myself: It's very cute, but do I really need this in my home and in my life? No, I don't. And then I admire it one more time, put it back on the shelf and walk away.
I figured out that I don't need to own a Corvette just because they are pretty. Much more satisfying to drive my big, useful minivan and feast my eyes on the Corvettes driving by...
We need to create clutter free classes starting In elementary then middle and high school it needs to be a curriculum, with finances, relationships, and home economics because all we are taught is to work make money and buy things and pay taxes and it’s a vicious cycle that is causing our poor mental health with no accountability and responsibility. I am soo guilty not being a minimalist and the more I say I want to rid everything I reflect back of why I wasn’t taught this in the first place living in a middle class home..work, spend, slept and do it again! Thank you for the continued inspiration as I have been watching, reading and listening to several minimalist and essentialist and I’m sad that at 56 it’s taken me this long, but happy I can still begin and make a difference for my kids to see and grand children. If we spent our money on helping each other, sustainability the people on earth might be healthier, peaceful , and safer free earth to live on! I hope your contribution to teaching mindfulness of stuff as well as other help this generation get there sooner and the future generations! Thanks again, Kelly
Yes, this was a big adjustment for me too, disconnecting the "I love it" thought from the "I need it" thought. Now I enjoy all sorts of beautiful little things for a moment before walking away from them because my very favorite beautiful thing is having a simplified house!
When I was living with my best friend and his son, the clutter they created was really stressing me out. I took care of my packrat/hoarder dad for 13 yrs and was never allowed to throw things away. I found, if I just concentrate on what is exclusively mine (like my car, my bedroom, my place at the dining room table), it helped.
I know that feeling all too well unfortunately! I fought tooth & nail but ended up having to give in & move back into my parents house w my 3 kids after my divorce. I ended up getting really sick with osteomyelitis, an extremely rare bone infection. It took months & several stays in the hospital before I was properly diagnosed & more than a year with 2 PICC lines so I could give myself IV antibiotics at home & then surgery so my temporary stay turned into years. I love my parents but I don’t think they’ve never gotten rid of anything since I was a child & it liked to have killed me! As hard as I tried to clean out space, by the time I turned around, it was like I never touched it. I felt like I was suffocating & tbh I still don’t think I’ve really recovered from the constant anxiety, or maybe it was just the whole turn of events over all!
Another big one is not being able to keep up with significant life changes, especially multiple ones in a row. You move country, get health issues, move in/out of a relationship, lose your job, start a business, lose someone, have a child, see your grown children move out, or find yourself run over by a major historical event etc... but your home still reflects how you used to live in a previous chapter of your life rather than your current one because you haven't quite adjusted to the change yet. Too much change happening too quickly. So things that used to serve your life don't anymore and have now become clutter weighing you down, and you haven't quite realized it. That was the main reason for me. Since I realized that, I've been able to let go, accept the changes and enjoy my home again.
Great tips. Especially the one about not feeling guilty because you can't always re-home or recycle an item. Turning your home into a landfill because you feel guilty is unhealthy too. Obviously if you can easily rehome or recycle an item you should. But depending on where you live this can be very hard for some people, and their house can get so crowded that end up buying duplicates of items....which is even worse for the environment. The act of decluttering usually makes me people less likely to purchase more things
This is so true! I feel so guilty about throwing things in the trash. But the alternative is that unusable or worn out things just sit in my house forever, and that's not a reasonable fix. But I agree, the more I declutter, the less compelled I am to buy stuff.
God Bless You to the Psychiatric Nurse. I’m sure you have helped so many people. I would not go back either if I were you. But I’m so glad that you have found Vera and Simple Happy Zen. And a great big “Thank You” from all of those people who you helped.❤
Take a picture and think about it a while longer, I recently did this with a book (actually do this with all books), took it out of my local library and I just could not get into it at all, I tried at least 2 or 3 times and nope, was just not happening for me. Other times I do it and end up buying the book if I know I would read it again. Doing it this way has saved me sooooo much money on books, the recent one that I just wasn't enjoying saved me £14 and a space on my bookshelf.
My husband absolutely refuses to do any decluttering of his items. He has two closets versus my half of one and a whole cabinet that is nothing but tangled cords and old comic book memorabilia. He drives me insane with the amounts of crap he holds on to. That being said, I'm glad you talked about compromise, the cabinet is something I may just have to deal with, but if we could get him down to one closet we could actually take out a wall and expand our tiny bathrooom! Wish me luck on that, I'll need it.
If you can get your husband on board with the vision of a much nicer bathroom, hopefully he'll have a motivation to go through that horror closet 🤞. Good luck, I also live with a partner who doesn't really want to declutter. We are finally in the process of getting better storage after buying a super nice new sofa which we both love. I am going to be very much on top of how we use the new storage 😅
I get motivated, get things out to sort through, feel overwhelmed, act decisively then pull things out of the 'to go' pile for emotional reasons, end up with piles and boxes to go here, there and everywhere that are messier than the 'before' situation and end up freeing only half a cubic metre of space. Lots of demotivating factors. Getting it out of the house asap is really helpful. I have a friend who will take the stuff to the various places it needs to go and once it's out of my house, I can't pull it back into the 'keep' pile. Friends could do this for one another.
Dear Vera, all your videos are amazing, highly resonating (when you speak about energy levels and sensitivity) and extremely useful.Besides that I can keep listening to you all day long. You make me feel so light and easy whenever I listen to your videos🦋🤎 Thank you so much for all your work🙏
Cannot put in words how much I love your videos, how much your words calm me down and how relaxed I feel while and after watching your videos! There is no other channel for me, where I am looking forward the whole week until Saturday when I watch your video without any distractions and enjoy every minute. So refreshing in an online world where we tend to overconsume content just to get us distracted or have some background noise. Thank you so much for giving this to the world!
I am more of a minimalist, but my boyfriend is not. And that's ok! But I realized that spaces I decluttered, would start to be filled with his stuff. At first he didn't understand why I didn't like that. In the end I explained that the space in our house is 50% mine and 50% his. And me wanting to have a bit of empty space in our house, is a good use of the space for me and just as valuable to me as his stuff is to him.
#9 is my biggest problem! I'm so disappointed with myself for all the money I spent on THINGS I've never used. Purses, home decor, and kitchen gadgets have always been my weaknesses. My new rule is if I think I can get more than $10 for it, try to sell it. If it doesn't sell in 1-2 weeks, then it goes into the donation box. That way at least I've tried. 🤷♀
I think we should be allowed to collect things that we like. I'm by no means a minimalist, but i do own a single set of pots and pans: i have no space for more, and i don't have to cook for an army, nor do i cook every single day. I also have a rule: 1 item in = 1 item out. i have a few kitchen gadgets that need more use: a cocktail shaker, a tool to remove pits from cherries and other similar fruits (luckily it's a hand-held tool, not the big ass machine), the blender. i have 5 teapots i really really like and a tea kettle, though to be honest, i can boil water for tea in any other pot. i won't let others guilt trip me into decluttering the items i really really like. nope, no sir. i do feel guilty in getting rid of perfectly good items that can still be used for years to come. but oh well, i have to give up something. just not the items that brig me joy. #notAminimalist LMAO!
I've always had things Clean, Neat & Tidy! But we had ALOT of "Stuff" Neatly Stored! We decided recently to try to De-Clutter a bit after we had done a Massive Re-Construction/Repairs on the whole downstairs! We redecorated afterward & realized that WOW we had ALOT of "Stuff" So we began to De-Clutter. Our Real "Wake-up" Moment came when we saw All the THINGS we were keeping had either Deteriorated or we were saying "Why were we even keeping THAT?" We didn't even like that kind of Item anymore or remember the significance of it! We were Embarrassed about it! OUT it All went! We were also keeping in mind that since we're in our 70s we didn't want our two sons to even find out we had that kind of Junk stored like Treasures & would have to sort it all out! We've been "Purging" ever since! We got ruthless! No more items stored away that "Haunt" Us with Bad Vibes! ALL GONE! What a Relief! And we feel in Better Health & have Better Energy, too!
They all stand out to me, but particularly the "all or nothing-perfectionism" and "procrastination". I procrastinate because I am waiting until I can do it perfectly.😅
Haha I can relate :) Perfectionism can definitely lead to procrastination. I do have a (really old) video about how I became less of a perfectionist, if you're interested: th-cam.com/video/ig_ZyptMP1A/w-d-xo.html
The rest of this year and next year I'm going hard on the last half of my cluttery things I don't use. Even if it's 10 minutes every couple of days. I want a peaceful background like yours. 😊 That vacation home level of peace.
I still have way too much stuff, but my energylevel is very low so I can only do little bits everyday. Slowly but surely more and more things leave my house. With a big THANK YOU to you and your videos 🤍🩵🩶
A thought that helps me to clutter is "what's the real value of a thing if it is not being used?" It doesn't matter if that was expensive, it simply has not any value at all if is not useful.
Summers when we were kids, Margaret..oh, how carefree! Kool aid popsicles, hula hoops, all-day suckers. I loved multicolored sandals and short rompers, coloring, wearing pigtails with pastel clips. The freedom of being out of school. The neighborhood park's pool..so refreshing on a hot day! It was shallow, but, it had two overhead sprinklers and a little area to wash off your feet before you went into that cool, clean water. Ahh.. A cold soda pop or fresh lemonade..those were the days! Love your suggestions; will try to be a kid again this summer. Lots of love..so glad you're feeling better! 😊 Rosemarie 🩷
The long narrow lines are perfect for me!! It gives me time and shelves to put stuff back as I wait. There's been times that while I was waiting I realized I actually didn't want that item or it wasn't what I was really looking for, so I put it down. Having that time has saved me money!
Oh that sounds good then! :) I read that they add the long narrow lines, because it makes people double down on their choices, since they've been standing in line for a long time to get the item, so they don't feel like they can change their mind about it since time was already invested. Also, it's awkward to suddenly get out of a line like that if there are people waiting behind you. But hey, if they work for you, then that's great :)
@SimpleHappyZen that's interesting and I could see how it's true for most!! My father in law has left whole carts of stuff if the lines are too long, so maybe it's a family thing I've learned. 🫣😅
Extremel good points. Only one thing did not ring true. The comment that she never discarded something that she ended up needing again. I have heard that while not common, it does happen. It has happened to me and others i know. But i am prepared for this to happen once in a while and will not stop my decluttering.
All excellent ideas! And if I might offer one in return: for those of us who may be doing the dishes or what-have-you while we listen to your tips, especially a long list like this one, it would be helpful to have an auditory cue for when you go to the next item. Such as something as simple as saying out loud "number six, number seven..." or maybe ringing a little gong in between each one, or even just saying "next" would help.
Another thought: my problem is not the shopping, I'm practising a sort of thoughtfull hoarding 😅 Here in Berlin I live in a more hippie like part of the town, and we've got good second hand clothes stores, where I love to stop by. And here, people do not throw away their stuff, they simply put it in these "give away" boxes: they are regularly on the street or in special public swap places. Too often I collect things from the boxes & rarely I put things there myself... I have to learn, that not occasion and good prize justify a purchase , but usefulness, direct & immediate usefulness...
Viele Grüße aus Berlin :-) A good friend send me this link: She knows I'm struggeling with hoarding since ever, and basicly I know that minimalism is my way to go, but I'm still fighting my irrational inner demons ... and you named them very precisely. Thank you very much for this substancial and encouraging video! Certainly I will watch it many times to keep me and my kids on track!
As an HSP, this has helped tremendously...the reasons WHY. I laughed and cried and now feel lighter for the knowledge of why I do these things. Thank you 🤗
I keep so many things for special occasions: Perfume, clothing, porcelain plates etc - I allowed myself the luxury of wearing a cashmere cardigan today (I have had it for over a year!) - With your help I am beginning to see the madness of this kind of thinking.
I struggle the most with not knowing how to find homes for items especially in a place with very limited storage. Would love a video with more tips on how to find homes for items
My mom is a hoarder, and she drives me NUTS with the 'we could use it for something in the future' and 'better to have it' mindsets! We have SO MUCH SHIT that we don't use, will NEVER use, it's useless, she doesn't let me/us get rid of anything, and I HATE it! I wish she would stop! It's gonna be my responsibility when she goes, and it's really not cool! X'P
I love your videos so much. They are calming and authentic. I love that you do like I do and sit on the floor instead of the sofa! I use to scold my kids for doing the same thing and then realized that they got it from me! Lol
Every once in a while I do a big decluttering. Sometimes, later on, I miss something that I have given away. But, I know that somebody has been using it and getting joy from it in the meantime, and I can usually live without that object. If I made a mistake and that object is needed again, I can buy another or something similar, but usually I make do with what I have and it is good enough. A spare and organized environment is so good for my wellbeing that it is liberating to give the extras in my life away. I also have a rule for my closet - if two shirts come in, two shirts have to go out - works like a charm to keep the closet dragon under control.
That was really good advice. Lots of things resonated with me. Procrastinating is my biggest. I do think your right to add what needs to be done on a Calendar (at a specific time) and not added to a to do list (sometime). That way I would need to get it done in a timely fashion. 😊 Thank you. I always enjoy watching your videos. Very positive and inspirational. 🥰
Hi🤗…I usually think twice before buying stuff but sometimes I find myself purchasing items that I think are some kind of fancy ( for example a dish brush you can fill with dish soap) and will „improve my life“. There is so much „good idea“ stuff like this around…so there is always a reason to spend money on it. But in the end those fancy items turn out to be not as useful as they seemed in the first place and I end up using the old simple item again which makes me feel bad and I can‘t let go of the fancy one😂. I wished I could say that those experiences will definately keep me from doing it again but… I can relate to so many of the points you mentioned. The struggle is real😂.
I take pictures of items in the store when I cannot get them at the time or are not sure about them. That helps me when creating my shopping list for the next time! I can do research on the items I took pictures of and that helps me to ultimately decide if I really want the item or not I agree with all your tips in this video; I pride myself on my decluttering skills, organizational skills, and decorating know how. But I love watching videos like these to confirm that what I am already doing is for the good!
#25 stands out to me the most. My husband will get ride of things like clothes that don't fit him or cords he's not using. However there are things he does not want to let go of. Like a suit he bought and can no longer fit into or his snowboard that he hasn't used in 7+ years all because he spent a lot of money on them.
@amandadunbar9702, it MAY be about the money - the money was already spent and holding onto it won’t put the money back in his account, but MORE LIKELY it is about denying his current weight and boring lifestyle and is a way to delude himself that he is still thin and active as long as he keeps them.
Hi Vera Thank you for all your wonderful videos. I have been inspired by you to declutter our home. It is a small house and I have to keep things from coming in. The hardest part if sentimental items in the cellar in plastic bins. All family photos.
#13 & #25 involve other people you live with limiting how you want to live clutter free and more simply in your home - this is a big one for me. I like attractive, organized, tastefully, and comfortably decorated reasonably uncluttered rooms in our home, but my husband is a maximalist, borderlining on hoarder and very disorganized. I will only allow massive clutter in rooms or certain areas of our home, like garage, his office, etc. It grieves and angers me every time I walk through those rooms, but it is the only compromise that makes things tolerable. I'm sad to say that he "just doesn't get it"! And he doesn't want me to get rid of things. But I do my best to keep other areas very pleasant and more serene. It's a daily battle when living with others who are uncooperative.
Our kitchen is currently being remodeled and in the weeks before, I spent a lot of time packing up what we had in it. I had so many things that I either donated or threw away, it was crazy. I'm now looking forward to when it is finished so I can unpack all of it, put it away in an organized manner and probably get rid of a few more things! I agree completely with the "use the good stuff now, don't wait" idea, there is no point in buying it if you aren't going to enjoy it.
I have a storage that I rent with stuff that I don't really use anymore. Things like golfsets, decorations that have seen better days, berry pickers and different random stuff. It's not a packed storage but still enough stuff to fill a van of the size of a VW Transporter in the back. What I've done now is to end my lease for this storage so I'm forced to get rid of the stuff in 3 months time since I don't have room for it in my small apartment.
I am not a minimalist and do not wish to be. I have items in my home that to others might be clutter but to me my ornaments in cabinets and photos on my benches remind me of loved ones who have passed away or possessions that have a story and items that I love I am happy to declutter my garage, clothes but items belonging to my grandparents or great grandparents give me pleasure. I find when looking at programmes on minimalism and particularly their homes I find those rooms are bland and uninspiring. Indeed they all look the same with no variety. I watched this episode and found some of the points raised particularly on clothing relevant. Another bug bear is “you don’t need those items”. No one knows other than me what I need or don’t need. However I appreciate Simple Happy Zen as she often refers to herself. A few “minimalists could learn a lesson from her. I appreciate her honesty.
I love your videos, Vera. I watch your videos whenever I feel stressed or if I want to take a break from long hours of work, it's keeping me calm. Keep posting valuable content. 🙌
After 34 years of living with someone who is a hoarder, I have realized that he’s not going to change and so I left. My mental health had deteriorated. If someone doesn’t want to change, and is a hoarder, trying to make things work is just a waste of time. I wish I would have left 10 years ago after the children were gone.
Thanks for making this video.. stumbled upon it and i'm a new fan! I've been trying to declutter and while i have made progress, i can never seem to achieve that clean look of my dreams (perhaps, also because I have 3 kids). But everything you said really resonated with me. It's like now I know all the different reasons crippling me. I am mustering my courage to label a couple of boxes that are unopened for months, to just donate/throw it all because I know that if I opened them, I will end up only moving things around, keeping it longer, and not really decluttering.
I find if I'm too overwhelmed or mentally drained, I give myself time to recover. Then, I'm going to be at a refreshed mindset. Also, I come up with a day to do the task. With clothes, I have a list of how much I have of each item. That answers the question, "Do I need a new, say top' ❤
Vera, you are one of my favorites here on utube…always love to listen to your videos ❤️👍🏻🪷 You look amazing, and thanks to you and your speaking of self care, I have hit my goal and lost 20 lbs, my blood work is perfect… in the back seat of my car is a big black trash bag filled with clothes that are too big on me, loved decluttering them, and very intentionally went clothes shopping that is two sizes smaller 🎉🎊 Love the new apartment 💐🌺
@@SimpleHappyZenI live in Carolina and we have had the best summer not hot here, but have had cooler temperatures then we normally do, I have had the best spring because of it, I am not a summer person
#20 made me laugh out loud, then #21 made me feel like crying. But don’t worry. I learn from every single video that you make. Also, I use Cherry Blossom Shampoo and Cherry Blossom Hair Conditioner. I also love Cherry Blossom Body Wash. There are many things we both like and things we have in common. I can cry one minute and then laugh the next (or vice versa). Congratulations on your new beautiful 🏡.
Dear Vera, I am at home due to bad health for way over 10 years now, and am always planning to declutter my room first and the rest of our house later. It is not hard to start and do this for a day or two, but the pain starts when I come to the decision making around expensive items and especially my hobbies like music making, photography and more I did in the past. Will I do it again? Do I have enough space to keep things? Will I regret selling or donating the vintage items? You always present your ideas with a big smile, but for me it is making me stressed. Thank you for keeping the show going, perhaps some day I will push through and become calmer.
It's better to start with the easy things if you want to declutter. I've been in the same flat for nearly 30 years and the clutter crept in while I wasn't paying attention. Now, the clutter bothers me. I make progress then have long periods when I don't tackle the issue. What a battle this is. Take care. 🌻
The "will I do it again" question is such a big one when you have health issues, I can totally relate. When you get rid of things connected to an activity you used to enjoy doing but can't anymore due to your health, it can feel like having to let go of the hope of some day getting better again, healthwise. It's really hard. I struggled with this for a long time until I started feeling like my home had turned into a big graveyard of hobbies past, with all the corresponding equipment just taunting me on a daily basis. They felt like constant reminders of everything I had lost when my health took a turn, and were making me depressed. I had to make peace with not being able to use those things again and get them out of my life, so I could focus on what I actually *can do, make space for it, and get on with my new reality without clinging to the past. Getting rid of these things made me feel so much better, I can really recommend it. You can do this!
@@lsamoa you are right, the kept items are a constant weight on my shoulders, they beg to be used again and I have to disappoint them and myself every day. You gave me more willpower to finally get rid of some and focus on the right things. Thank you.
@@rayderrich Glad I could be of some help. Remember you're just as great a person now as you were before, probably even greater. Health issues are some of the hardest things to go through in life, and I'm sure you're dealing with it better than you think you are. Be proud of yourself!
Vera another great video and thank you for all the tips. I like the one just because you see something pretty doesn't mean you have to bring it home with you. Hugs ❤
I took your advice you gave in a previous video. You said if you’re unsure of a clothing item, wear it and see if you still want it. I wore a skirt out to a restaurant yesterday and I put it in the donation box when I got home 😂. It just felt weird on,it was a skirt made from an upcycled dress ( nice try😊) it just wasn’t working for me.
Hi Vera, thank you so much for this video, I loved it and think you made a wonderful and authentic compilation of reasons! :) if I really want to buy something, I take a few days like you suggest to think about it and I allow myself to buy it and own it. Some things are not desirable anymore once I've done this, and this gives me an idea of whether I'm buying it for emotional/mental health reasons. Love your channel!! Thank you for all your hard work!
For a person who likes to repair and upcycle like me, deadlines are MUST. If I don't deal with this item this month (or this summer, or till New Year), the next day it will go OUT.
Your comment about keeping a pen that you used in a job you used to have hit pretty close to home! 😬😆 I left my job 10 years ago to take care of my daughter and still have stuff (including a couple of pens) that I used at my desk back then.
Hello Vera. I love your videos so much , content, your soothing and calm voice.... Thank you for everything you do and your sharing. May you be happy, may you be healthy and at peace, all the best to you. ❤
I’m a HSP too and only realize the strength and the idea that being a HSP is normal and totally fine has helped me a lot. At least I won’t be so hard on myself. the little voice in my head and the critical comments from people around me will be less affected. I’m so happy and grateful to know you and your channel. I’ve been watching your videos almost everyday (even take notes 😄) for a month now. I just wanna say, you’re great, and your job is amazing. Thank You so much, Vera ❤❤❤
Oh my gosh, you must have read my mind! I love on-sale items and excused myself by thinking, they are such a bargain. Once I receive a gift, I keep it whether I like it or not and always feel guilty for not liking it. When I was much younger, I didn't have the things I needed/wanted and couldn't waste the money by getting rid of them now or take the chance that I might need them again. It leaves me with a closet stuffed with things I no longer wear. After listening to you today, I called my son who owns a vintage store and offered to contribute many collectibles (I'm down to the things I really like now)... He is coming over Saturday. And lastly, I've foregone a beautiful but way too expensive console table that I had my eye on today. Thanks Vera.
This is off topic, but I have to point this out, my first second impression: You look like a beautiful porcelain doll❤ what do you do for your healthy skin? Please don't tell me it is simply all genetics and sunscreen😅 you look really happy and content. Speaks for your message!
Aw thank you for your kind comment :) I do have an older video about my skincare habits, but I basically still do the same things: th-cam.com/video/aqArakP5Sb0/w-d-xo.html The only thing I would add is that I now also use products with hyaluronic acid, since I'm a bit older than in that video (3 years) so I'm starting to see some fine lines, and I really notice a big difference since I started using those products. Other than that, it's all in the video! :)
Having seen many decluttering stories on YT, most everyone tells stories about practically every little thing the own. It’s as if they are letting go of a person and not an object.
I have a "uniform" of sorts I wear. I got rid of most things that don't work with it. It fits my personality. I'm struggling with getting rid of the last items mostly because my husband likes them.
Heart of Kentucky. SIMPLE HAPPY ZEN. Hi VERA in the NETHERLANDS. So joyful to see you. I prayed for you and your love ones. Hope you have a totally Blessed day in every way. Love you. Katie.
Hi I'm like that at shopping at boutiques just gotta get it before someone else does.. not anymore I've saved alot too . I haveto declutter more I'm a scared city mindset and declutter guilt ...thanks. 💖..
I have to say, i think all of these points resonated with me at least somewhat or in a big way! Thank you for this video. ❤ I havent started my decluttering process yet, but I'm finding it very helpful to educate myself first and also have alot of my experiences validated by others, which makes this whole process seem more achievable ❤😊
Hi Vera, great video, very insightful, as always :)) I just wanted to say that I now live in the Netherlands (as an international student) and it is always so fun when I can relate to your small comments such as the one about the rain (I for sure did a happy dance)! :DD Keep it up and have a nice day :))
This video validated me. 🥲I've had hoarding tendencies for many years; however, within the past couple of years or so, I've had a strong urge to minimalize as much as possible because it's easy for me to become overwhelmed by being surrounded by too much stuff. I own way less than I used to, and I'm happier. I still want to declutter more. I just get overwhelmed because it feels like too much when I open the closet door. Most of the stuff I have a hard time getting rid of is due to sentimental value. What drives me nuts is that I haven't used or worn the stuff in _years,_ and I've been just fine but, the moment I go to put it in a donate pile, I hesitate. I appreciate this video. I love the idea of taking a picture of something we see in a store that we want but know we don't need. It's a great way to ponder it a bit and, if I still want it later, I can get it. This approach would save me from rash, unnecessary spending. Thanks for posting!
Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts! Glad to hear owning less is making you happier too :) I do have an older video that's a deepdive into sentimental clutter, so maybe that one could also be helpful for you: th-cam.com/video/7AF5tH1D-pI/w-d-xo.html
I have post from my stress disorder and I had a bad childhood, so small spaces freak me out and I will tell you if a place is too crowded too dirty or has loud music. I can leave very easily I think that’s why the dollar trees that are clean, give me to buy so much because they don’t have music. They’re calm and peaceful and clean and everything is in its own like I’ll crafts and one plates in another and that makes me buy more plus overstimulating colors make me leave too. I don’t know why, but I feel very nauseous. Plus, if somebody’s really rude or I can’t find anybody to help me, or they act like they’re stuff great that means your stuffs not great and I leave very quickly
I was very very guilty of saving for special occasions things, even when i was a kid heh so i had to work on that a lot. I realized how long it takes to use somethings up . Like soap or body wash it doesn't actually go that fast. so use the special stuff once a week. light those candles.
Hi Vera! I watch your videos for a while now and I always find them very useful and honestly they help me to calm and be less anxious. I was wondering, what can you do when, like me, you want to tend to minimalism but you are a collector. When you collect certain things that you really love and are passionate about and even with Vera's kind of reasoning or using the Marie Kondo method, you still want to keep these things cause you REALLY care and "spark joy", do you have any tips? Love, Linda
If you're wondering why I brought out the big mic 🎙 It was so hot during filming that I kept sweating off my tiny mic that I always hide underneath my shirt with some duct tape. 😅 Gotta love summertime, haha!
😂😂😂
I was wondering why you had it. I kept looking at it…lol😂
I liked!
👍👍👍 You sound great.
Perhaps you can clip it to your clothing? This big one somehow (surprisingly) lowers your audio quality.
I am a psychiatric RN at a state ran psychiatric hospital in Texas. I love caring for people and in the end of 2021,for the first time I was attacked by a patient. It sent me into a major depression and high anxiety state. At first I stayed home for 1 month and went back. Then a few months later in June of 2022, I started having anxiety attacks at work. I am a HSP, and I guess the attack just shattered me. I still have not gone back so it has been one year. My job does not pay me and it is getting difficult to manage financially for me and my husband. I find refuge in your channel. I just recently discovered it and happy I did! Thank you so very much for your inspiring content. I am definitely learning ways to be happier and more at peace from you. Much love from Texas!
I just got our of the hospital yesterday, I cannot image ever harming a medical worker!! To me, you are all Angels on Earth and I've only had the upmost respect and admiration. I am a ESP and huge empath so understand you. Blessings to you in your recovery. x's fro, NM!
@@ljshaw8516 Thank you so much!!! Sending positive vibes your way!
Bless you. Having to experience something like that in your profession when you just want to make a difference and care for people. Personally I believe they should still be paying you and offering counselling or some help for anxiety or ptsd if you found it useful. Totally understandable. I get tremendous anxiety about going into hospital from a bad experience. Minimalism is helping distract myself from thinking too much and helping me more than I thought possible. Hugs and best wishes you x
I pray you ❤️🩹
@@tarat26 Thank you!
1:25 all or nothing declittering-make a little bit
2:00 store tricks
3:02 prefer gain over losing-decluttering is not losing
3:46 lost or unsure - buying as security blanket
4:46 afraid of uncovering your pain (in the closet)
5:29 scarcity mindset
6:10 you might need it in the future
6:53 feel bad letting things go
7:28 don't want to waste money spent
8:05 insecurities over buying the product
9:08 things don't have a home
9:36 decision fatigue
11:34 limiting beliefs
12:18 you're procrastinating
12:44 Don't want to throw things
13:21 seeing doesn't mean owning
13:57 assign meaning to many things
14:45 don't have a system for traveling items
15:16 you like things that you own
16:02 you don't declutter, just pushing things around
16:31 buying things that you don't need
17:26 buying things fir special occasions
18:02 sales
18:25 keep things in the wrong place
18:51 living with wrong people
Wonderful video content ….. the one that resonates with me the most is the idea of “just because it’s pretty, doesn’t mean that I need to take it home!” I’m guilty of this !!!
Me too..I like pretty things
I always tell myself: It's very cute, but do I really need this in my home and in my life? No, I don't. And then I admire it one more time, put it back on the shelf and walk away.
I figured out that I don't need to own a Corvette just because they are pretty. Much more satisfying to drive my big, useful minivan and feast my eyes on the Corvettes driving by...
We need to create clutter free classes starting In elementary then middle and high school it needs to be a curriculum, with finances, relationships, and home economics because all we are taught is to work make money and buy things and pay taxes and it’s a vicious cycle that is causing our poor mental health with no accountability and responsibility. I am soo guilty not being a minimalist and the more I say I want to rid everything I reflect back of why I wasn’t taught this in the first place living in a middle class home..work, spend, slept and do it again! Thank you for the continued inspiration as I have been watching, reading and listening to several minimalist and essentialist and I’m sad that at 56 it’s taken me this long, but happy I can still begin and make a difference for my kids to see and grand children. If we spent our money on helping each other, sustainability the people on earth might be healthier, peaceful , and safer free earth to live on! I hope your contribution to teaching mindfulness of stuff as well as other help this generation get there sooner and the future generations! Thanks again, Kelly
Yes, this was a big adjustment for me too, disconnecting the "I love it" thought from the "I need it" thought. Now I enjoy all sorts of beautiful little things for a moment before walking away from them because my very favorite beautiful thing is having a simplified house!
When I was living with my best friend and his son, the clutter they created was really stressing me out. I took care of my packrat/hoarder dad for 13 yrs and was never allowed to throw things away. I found, if I just concentrate on what is exclusively mine (like my car, my bedroom, my place at the dining room table), it helped.
I know that feeling all too well unfortunately! I fought tooth & nail but ended up having to give in & move back into my parents house w my 3 kids after my divorce. I ended up getting really sick with osteomyelitis, an extremely rare bone infection. It took months & several stays in the hospital before I was properly diagnosed & more than a year with 2 PICC lines so I could give myself IV antibiotics at home & then surgery so my temporary stay turned into years. I love my parents but I don’t think they’ve never gotten rid of anything since I was a child & it liked to have killed me! As hard as I tried to clean out space, by the time I turned around, it was like I never touched it. I felt like I was suffocating & tbh I still don’t think I’ve really recovered from the constant anxiety, or maybe it was just the whole turn of events over all!
@@michelletennyson8535 I’m so sorry. Sending you a virtual hug.
Another big one is not being able to keep up with significant life changes, especially multiple ones in a row. You move country, get health issues, move in/out of a relationship, lose your job, start a business, lose someone, have a child, see your grown children move out, or find yourself run over by a major historical event etc... but your home still reflects how you used to live in a previous chapter of your life rather than your current one because you haven't quite adjusted to the change yet. Too much change happening too quickly. So things that used to serve your life don't anymore and have now become clutter weighing you down, and you haven't quite realized it. That was the main reason for me. Since I realized that, I've been able to let go, accept the changes and enjoy my home again.
Great tips. Especially the one about not feeling guilty because you can't always re-home or recycle an item. Turning your home into a landfill because you feel guilty is unhealthy too. Obviously if you can easily rehome or recycle an item you should. But depending on where you live this can be very hard for some people, and their house can get so crowded that end up buying duplicates of items....which is even worse for the environment. The act of decluttering usually makes me people less likely to purchase more things
This is so true! I feel so guilty about throwing things in the trash. But the alternative is that unusable or worn out things just sit in my house forever, and that's not a reasonable fix. But I agree, the more I declutter, the less compelled I am to buy stuff.
if i’m frustrated enough - I just throw it out & remember not to do it again !
God Bless You to the Psychiatric Nurse. I’m sure you have helped so many people. I would not go back either if I were you. But I’m so glad that you have found Vera and Simple Happy Zen. And a great big “Thank You” from all of those people who you helped.❤
Take a picture and think about it a while longer, I recently did this with a book (actually do this with all books), took it out of my local library and I just could not get into it at all, I tried at least 2 or 3 times and nope, was just not happening for me. Other times I do it and end up buying the book if I know I would read it again. Doing it this way has saved me sooooo much money on books, the recent one that I just wasn't enjoying saved me £14 and a space on my bookshelf.
My husband absolutely refuses to do any decluttering of his items. He has two closets versus my half of one and a whole cabinet that is nothing but tangled cords and old comic book memorabilia. He drives me insane with the amounts of crap he holds on to. That being said, I'm glad you talked about compromise, the cabinet is something I may just have to deal with, but if we could get him down to one closet we could actually take out a wall and expand our tiny bathrooom! Wish me luck on that, I'll need it.
Do it!! Best wishes!❤
Tell him you are selling one of the wardrobes so he needs to fit all his things in one wardrobe. Sell the wardrobe. (Closet)
If you can get your husband on board with the vision of a much nicer bathroom, hopefully he'll have a motivation to go through that horror closet 🤞. Good luck, I also live with a partner who doesn't really want to declutter. We are finally in the process of getting better storage after buying a super nice new sofa which we both love. I am going to be very much on top of how we use the new storage 😅
I get motivated, get things out to sort through, feel overwhelmed, act decisively then pull things out of the 'to go' pile for emotional reasons, end up with piles and boxes to go here, there and everywhere that are messier than the 'before' situation and end up freeing only half a cubic metre of space. Lots of demotivating factors.
Getting it out of the house asap is really helpful. I have a friend who will take the stuff to the various places it needs to go and once it's out of my house, I can't pull it back into the 'keep' pile. Friends could do this for one another.
Dear Vera, all your videos are amazing, highly resonating (when you speak about energy levels and sensitivity) and extremely useful.Besides that I can keep listening to you all day long. You make me feel so light and easy whenever I listen to your videos🦋🤎 Thank you so much for all your work🙏
Aw thank you for that! I really appreciate the kind words and support 💕❤️ Have a wonderful weekend!
Cannot put in words how much I love your videos, how much your words calm me down and how relaxed I feel while and after watching your videos! There is no other channel for me, where I am looking forward the whole week until Saturday when I watch your video without any distractions and enjoy every minute. So refreshing in an online world where we tend to overconsume content just to get us distracted or have some background noise. Thank you so much for giving this to the world!
Aw thank you for this kind comment ❤️💕🥰 I really appreciate it! Have a wonderful week!
I am more of a minimalist, but my boyfriend is not. And that's ok!
But I realized that spaces I decluttered, would start to be filled with his stuff. At first he didn't understand why I didn't like that.
In the end I explained that the space in our house is 50% mine and 50% his. And me wanting to have a bit of empty space in our house, is a good use of the space for me and just as valuable to me as his stuff is to him.
#9 is my biggest problem! I'm so disappointed with myself for all the money I spent on THINGS I've never used. Purses, home decor, and kitchen gadgets have always been my weaknesses.
My new rule is if I think I can get more than $10 for it, try to sell it. If it doesn't sell in 1-2 weeks, then it goes into the donation box. That way at least I've tried. 🤷♀
I think we should be allowed to collect things that we like. I'm by no means a minimalist, but i do own a single set of pots and pans: i have no space for more, and i don't have to cook for an army, nor do i cook every single day. I also have a rule: 1 item in = 1 item out.
i have a few kitchen gadgets that need more use: a cocktail shaker, a tool to remove pits from cherries and other similar fruits (luckily it's a hand-held tool, not the big ass machine), the blender. i have 5 teapots i really really like and a tea kettle, though to be honest, i can boil water for tea in any other pot.
i won't let others guilt trip me into decluttering the items i really really like. nope, no sir. i do feel guilty in getting rid of perfectly good items that can still be used for years to come. but oh well, i have to give up something. just not the items that brig me joy. #notAminimalist LMAO!
I've always had things Clean, Neat & Tidy! But we had ALOT of "Stuff" Neatly Stored! We decided recently to try to De-Clutter a bit after we had done a Massive Re-Construction/Repairs on the whole downstairs! We redecorated afterward & realized that WOW we had ALOT of "Stuff" So we began to De-Clutter. Our Real "Wake-up" Moment came when we saw All the THINGS we were keeping had either Deteriorated or we were saying "Why were we even keeping THAT?" We didn't even like that kind of Item anymore or remember the significance of it! We were Embarrassed about it! OUT it All went! We were also keeping in mind that since we're in our 70s we didn't want our two sons to even find out we had that kind of Junk stored like Treasures & would have to sort it all out! We've been "Purging" ever since! We got ruthless!
No more items stored away that "Haunt" Us with Bad Vibes! ALL GONE! What a Relief! And we feel in Better Health & have Better Energy, too!
They all stand out to me, but particularly the "all or nothing-perfectionism" and "procrastination". I procrastinate because I am waiting until I can do it perfectly.😅
Haha I can relate :) Perfectionism can definitely lead to procrastination. I do have a (really old) video about how I became less of a perfectionist, if you're interested: th-cam.com/video/ig_ZyptMP1A/w-d-xo.html
The rest of this year and next year I'm going hard on the last half of my cluttery things I don't use. Even if it's 10 minutes every couple of days. I want a peaceful background like yours. 😊 That vacation home level of peace.
Wishing you all the best with your decluttering goals! 10 minutes every couple of days will definitely get you there :)
“Do not wait for a spacial occasion … “
👏👏👏👏
Yes!! 😁😁
I still have way too much stuff, but my energylevel is very low so I can only do little bits everyday. Slowly but surely more and more things leave my house. With a big THANK YOU to you and your videos 🤍🩵🩶
Doing little bits everyday is perfect Carlien :) I understand how it could test your patience at times, but really, you're doing great!
A thought that helps me to clutter is "what's the real value of a thing if it is not being used?" It doesn't matter if that was expensive, it simply has not any value at all if is not useful.
Summers when we were kids, Margaret..oh, how carefree! Kool aid popsicles, hula hoops, all-day suckers. I loved multicolored sandals and short rompers, coloring, wearing pigtails with pastel clips. The freedom of being out of school. The neighborhood park's pool..so refreshing on a hot day! It was shallow, but, it had two overhead sprinklers and a little area to wash off your feet before you went into that cool, clean water. Ahh.. A cold soda pop or fresh lemonade..those were the days! Love your suggestions; will try to be a kid again this summer. Lots of love..so glad you're feeling better! 😊
Rosemarie 🩷
The long narrow lines are perfect for me!! It gives me time and shelves to put stuff back as I wait. There's been times that while I was waiting I realized I actually didn't want that item or it wasn't what I was really looking for, so I put it down. Having that time has saved me money!
Oh that sounds good then! :) I read that they add the long narrow lines, because it makes people double down on their choices, since they've been standing in line for a long time to get the item, so they don't feel like they can change their mind about it since time was already invested. Also, it's awkward to suddenly get out of a line like that if there are people waiting behind you. But hey, if they work for you, then that's great :)
@SimpleHappyZen that's interesting and I could see how it's true for most!! My father in law has left whole carts of stuff if the lines are too long, so maybe it's a family thing I've learned. 🫣😅
Extremel good points. Only one thing did not ring true. The comment that she never discarded something that she ended up needing again. I have heard that while not common, it does happen. It has happened to me and others i know. But i am prepared for this to happen once in a while and will not stop my decluttering.
All excellent ideas! And if I might offer one in return: for those of us who may be doing the dishes or what-have-you while we listen to your tips, especially a long list like this one, it would be helpful to have an auditory cue for when you go to the next item. Such as something as simple as saying out loud "number six, number seven..." or maybe ringing a little gong in between each one, or even just saying "next" would help.
Another thought: my problem is not the shopping, I'm practising a sort of thoughtfull hoarding 😅
Here in Berlin I live in a more hippie like part of the town, and we've got good second hand clothes stores, where I love to stop by.
And here, people do not throw away their stuff, they simply put it in these "give away" boxes: they are regularly on the street or in special public swap places. Too often I collect things from the boxes & rarely I put things there myself...
I have to learn, that not occasion and good prize justify a purchase , but usefulness, direct & immediate usefulness...
Viele Grüße aus Berlin :-)
A good friend send me this link: She knows I'm struggeling with hoarding since ever, and basicly I know that minimalism is my way to go, but I'm still fighting my irrational inner demons ... and you named them very precisely.
Thank you very much for this substancial and encouraging video!
Certainly I will watch it many times to keep me and my kids on track!
As an HSP, this has helped tremendously...the reasons WHY. I laughed and cried and now feel lighter for the knowledge of why I do these things. Thank you 🤗
Sending a hug!
I keep so many things for special occasions: Perfume, clothing, porcelain plates etc - I allowed myself the luxury of wearing a cashmere cardigan today (I have had it for over a year!) - With your help I am beginning to see the madness of this kind of thinking.
I used to be like that too so I get it :) You deserve to enjoy using the fancy things you have every day!
I struggle the most with not knowing how to find homes for items especially in a place with very limited storage. Would love a video with more tips on how to find homes for items
My mom is a hoarder, and she drives me NUTS with the 'we could use it for something in the future' and 'better to have it' mindsets! We have SO MUCH SHIT that we don't use, will NEVER use, it's useless, she doesn't let me/us get rid of anything, and I HATE it! I wish she would stop! It's gonna be my responsibility when she goes, and it's really not cool! X'P
I love your videos so much. They are calming and authentic. I love that you do like I do and sit on the floor instead of the sofa! I use to scold my kids for doing the same thing and then realized that they got it from me! Lol
Hahaha that's funny :) I really enjoy sitting on the floor, it changes your perspective somehow :)
I'm just in awe of your nearly empty drawers! All of mine are stuffed to the brim. Thanks for the video!
Every once in a while I do a big decluttering. Sometimes, later on, I miss something that I have given away. But, I know that somebody has been using it and getting joy from it in the meantime, and I can usually live without that object. If I made a mistake and that object is needed again, I can buy another or something similar, but usually I make do with what I have and it is good enough. A spare and organized environment is so good for my wellbeing that it is liberating to give the extras in my life away. I also have a rule for my closet - if two shirts come in, two shirts have to go out - works like a charm to keep the closet dragon under control.
That was really good advice. Lots of things resonated with me. Procrastinating is my biggest. I do think your right to add what needs to be done on a Calendar (at a specific time) and not added to a to do list (sometime). That way I would need to get it done in a timely fashion. 😊 Thank you. I always enjoy watching your videos. Very positive and inspirational. 🥰
Thank you Cheryl!!! Wishing you good luck with the little projects! :)
Hi🤗…I usually think twice before buying stuff but sometimes I find myself purchasing items that I think are some kind of fancy ( for example a dish brush you can fill with dish soap) and will „improve my life“. There is so much „good idea“ stuff like this around…so there is always a reason to spend money on it. But in the end those fancy items turn out to be not as useful as they seemed in the first place and I end up using the old simple item again which makes me feel bad and I can‘t let go of the fancy one😂. I wished I could say that those experiences will definately keep me from doing it again but…
I can relate to so many of the points you mentioned. The struggle is real😂.
It is
Decluttering guilt...excellent message. Thanks Beautifully done. Thanks. Amen.
I was just writing in my journal this morning about my attachment to things! I love your videos!
Excellent. Glad I found your channel. ❤
I take pictures of items in the store when I cannot get them at the time or are not sure about them. That helps me when creating my shopping list for the next time! I can do research on the items I took pictures of and that helps me to ultimately decide if I really want the item or not
I agree with all your tips in this video; I pride myself on my decluttering skills, organizational skills, and decorating know how. But I love watching videos like these to confirm that what I am already doing is for the good!
#25 stands out to me the most. My husband will get ride of things like clothes that don't fit him or cords he's not using. However there are things he does not want to let go of. Like a suit he bought and can no longer fit into or his snowboard that he hasn't used in 7+ years all because he spent a lot of money on them.
In those cases it may help to find someone he cares about who could use the thing, and see if he would mind giving it to them as a kindness.
@amandadunbar9702, it MAY be about the money - the money was already spent and holding onto it won’t put the money back in his account, but MORE LIKELY it is about denying his current weight and boring lifestyle and is a way to delude himself that he is still thin and active as long as he keeps them.
@@marylut6077 I never thought of it from that perspective before thank you
It may be that he associates it with memories, why shouldn’t he keep those things ?
Hi Vera
Thank you for all your wonderful videos. I have been inspired by you to declutter our home. It is a small house and I have to keep things from coming in. The hardest part if sentimental items in the cellar in plastic bins. All family photos.
Next week will be cooler! Better weather to declutter 😉
I hope so! I've learned to take what they say with a grain of salt 😅
#13 & #25 involve other people you live with limiting how you want to live clutter free and more simply in your home - this is a big one for me. I like attractive, organized, tastefully, and comfortably decorated reasonably uncluttered rooms in our home, but my husband is a maximalist, borderlining on hoarder and very disorganized. I will only allow massive clutter in rooms or certain areas of our home, like garage, his office, etc. It grieves and angers me every time I walk through those rooms, but it is the only compromise that makes things tolerable. I'm sad to say that he "just doesn't get it"! And he doesn't want me to get rid of things. But I do my best to keep other areas very pleasant and more serene. It's a daily battle when living with others who are uncooperative.
Our kitchen is currently being remodeled and in the weeks before, I spent a lot of time packing up what we had in it. I had so many things that I either donated or threw away, it was crazy. I'm now looking forward to when it is finished so I can unpack all of it, put it away in an organized manner and probably get rid of a few more things! I agree completely with the "use the good stuff now, don't wait" idea, there is no point in buying it if you aren't going to enjoy it.
I have a storage that I rent with stuff that I don't really use anymore. Things like golfsets, decorations that have seen better days, berry pickers and different random stuff. It's not a packed storage but still enough stuff to fill a van of the size of a VW Transporter in the back. What I've done now is to end my lease for this storage so I'm forced to get rid of the stuff in 3 months time since I don't have room for it in my small apartment.
I am not a minimalist and do not wish to be. I have items in my home that to others might be clutter but to me my ornaments in cabinets and photos on my benches remind me of loved ones who have passed away or possessions that have a story and items that I love I am happy to declutter my garage, clothes but items belonging to my grandparents or great grandparents give me pleasure. I find when looking at programmes on minimalism and particularly their homes I find those rooms are bland and uninspiring. Indeed they all look the same with no variety. I watched this episode and found some of the points raised particularly on clothing relevant. Another bug bear is “you don’t need those items”. No one knows other than me what I need or don’t need. However I appreciate Simple Happy Zen as she often refers to herself. A few “minimalists could learn a lesson from her. I appreciate her honesty.
I love your videos, Vera. I watch your videos whenever I feel stressed or if I want to take a break from long hours of work, it's keeping me calm. Keep posting valuable content. 🙌
This video helped refresh me on my most vulnerable thinking traps. Thank you for sharing.
After 34 years of living with someone who is a hoarder, I have realized that he’s not going to change and so I left. My mental health had deteriorated. If someone doesn’t want to change, and is a hoarder, trying to make things work is just a waste of time. I wish I would have left 10 years ago after the children were gone.
I’m so sorry. 😞
Creative people are very intelligent. Thanks for sharing your talents.
Thanks for making this video.. stumbled upon it and i'm a new fan! I've been trying to declutter and while i have made progress, i can never seem to achieve that clean look of my dreams (perhaps, also because I have 3 kids). But everything you said really resonated with me. It's like now I know all the different reasons crippling me. I am mustering my courage to label a couple of boxes that are unopened for months, to just donate/throw it all because I know that if I opened them, I will end up only moving things around, keeping it longer, and not really decluttering.
Thank you for your calm and good advice!❤
You have helped me mentally as well as financially and I thank you
Aw that's so nice!! :) Also, something you can thank and be proud of yourself for, since you're the one who did it! 🤗🌺
Thanks!
Aw thank you Tanya, I really appreciate it!!! ❤✌🏻😄
I find if I'm too overwhelmed or mentally drained, I give myself time to recover. Then, I'm going to be at a refreshed mindset. Also, I come up with a day to do the task. With clothes, I have a list of how much I have of each item. That answers the question, "Do I need a new, say top' ❤
Vera, you are one of my favorites here on utube…always love to listen to your videos
❤️👍🏻🪷
You look amazing, and thanks to you and your speaking of self care, I have hit my goal and lost 20 lbs, my blood work is perfect… in the back seat of my car is a big black trash bag filled with clothes that are too big on me, loved decluttering them, and very intentionally went clothes shopping that is two sizes smaller 🎉🎊
Love the new apartment 💐🌺
Aw yay, thank you Christine!! 🤗🌺🌱 I really appreciate the support. Take care and have a wonderful weekend!! Is it hot over there too?
@@SimpleHappyZenI live in Carolina and we have had the best summer not hot here, but have had cooler temperatures then we normally do, I have had the best spring because of it, I am not a summer person
Oh that sounds wonderful! 🥰
You nailed me on so so many of these! Great video, loved it.
💘💘💘💘 your videos changed my life the last year or two and now I have way less clutter thank cutie xxx
#20 made me laugh out loud, then #21 made me feel like crying. But don’t worry. I learn from every single video that you make. Also, I use Cherry Blossom Shampoo and Cherry Blossom Hair Conditioner. I also love Cherry Blossom Body Wash. There are many things we both like and things we have in common. I can cry one minute and then laugh the next (or vice versa). Congratulations on your new beautiful 🏡.
Dear Vera, I am at home due to bad health for way over 10 years now, and am always planning to declutter my room first and the rest of our house later. It is not hard to start and do this for a day or two, but the pain starts when I come to the decision making around expensive items and especially my hobbies like music making, photography and more I did in the past. Will I do it again? Do I have enough space to keep things? Will I regret selling or donating the vintage items? You always present your ideas with a big smile, but for me it is making me stressed. Thank you for keeping the show going, perhaps some day I will push through and become calmer.
It's better to start with the easy things if you want to declutter. I've been in the same flat for nearly 30 years and the clutter crept in while I wasn't paying attention. Now, the clutter bothers me. I make progress then have long periods when I don't tackle the issue. What a battle this is. Take care. 🌻
@@Peace-tk3gr Thank you so much.
The "will I do it again" question is such a big one when you have health issues, I can totally relate. When you get rid of things connected to an activity you used to enjoy doing but can't anymore due to your health, it can feel like having to let go of the hope of some day getting better again, healthwise. It's really hard. I struggled with this for a long time until I started feeling like my home had turned into a big graveyard of hobbies past, with all the corresponding equipment just taunting me on a daily basis. They felt like constant reminders of everything I had lost when my health took a turn, and were making me depressed. I had to make peace with not being able to use those things again and get them out of my life, so I could focus on what I actually *can do, make space for it, and get on with my new reality without clinging to the past. Getting rid of these things made me feel so much better, I can really recommend it. You can do this!
@@lsamoa you are right, the kept items are a constant weight on my shoulders, they beg to be used again and I have to disappoint them and myself every day. You gave me more willpower to finally get rid of some and focus on the right things. Thank you.
@@rayderrich Glad I could be of some help. Remember you're just as great a person now as you were before, probably even greater. Health issues are some of the hardest things to go through in life, and I'm sure you're dealing with it better than you think you are. Be proud of yourself!
Vera another great video and thank you for all the tips. I like the one just because you see something pretty doesn't mean you have to bring it home with you. Hugs ❤
I took your advice you gave in a previous video. You said if you’re unsure of a clothing item, wear it and see if you still want it. I wore a skirt out to a restaurant yesterday and I put it in the donation box when I got home 😂. It just felt weird on,it was a skirt made from an upcycled dress ( nice try😊) it just wasn’t working for me.
Ah so cool!! Good job :)
Thank you for your ideas and your own solutions. 🌼🌼
Thank you for this video!
I love admiring, not possessing 😌
One of the few channnels i don't skip adverts. God job in building trust .
Hi Vera, thank you so much for this video, I loved it and think you made a wonderful and authentic compilation of reasons! :)
if I really want to buy something, I take a few days like you suggest to think about it and I allow myself to buy it and own it. Some things are not desirable anymore once I've done this, and this gives me an idea of whether I'm buying it for emotional/mental health reasons.
Love your channel!! Thank you for all your hard work!
For a person who likes to repair and upcycle like me, deadlines are MUST. If I don't deal with this item this month (or this summer, or till New Year), the next day it will go OUT.
Your comment about keeping a pen that you used in a job you used to have hit pretty close to home! 😬😆 I left my job 10 years ago to take care of my daughter and still have stuff (including a couple of pens) that I used at my desk back then.
I love your retro looking microphone
Thanks!! :) I don't really use it for this video format usually, but I also think it looks kinda cool. Makes me feel like I'm on the news hahaha
Haha, yes, it says something about me... that I buy too many books that I have no time to read!! This was very helpful, thank you for posting.
This video is incredibly good. The depth of your content is above and beyond 💯🤩
Hello Vera. I love your videos so much , content, your soothing and calm voice.... Thank you for everything you do and your sharing. May you be happy, may you be healthy and at peace, all the best to you. ❤
I’m a HSP too and only realize the strength and the idea that being a HSP is normal and totally fine has helped me a lot. At least I won’t be so hard on myself. the little voice in my head and the critical comments from people around me will be less affected. I’m so happy and grateful to know you and your channel. I’ve been watching your videos almost everyday (even take notes 😄) for a month now. I just wanna say, you’re great, and your job is amazing. Thank You so much, Vera ❤❤❤
Oh my gosh, you must have read my mind! I love on-sale items and excused myself by thinking, they are such a bargain. Once I receive a gift, I keep it whether I like it or not and always feel guilty for not liking it. When I was much younger, I didn't have the things I needed/wanted and couldn't waste the money by getting rid of them now or take the chance that I might need them again. It leaves me with a closet stuffed with things I no longer wear. After listening to you today, I called my son who owns a vintage store and offered to contribute many collectibles (I'm down to the things I really like now)... He is coming over Saturday. And lastly, I've foregone a beautiful but way too expensive console table that I had my eye on today. Thanks Vera.
Excellent video on decluttering. Also your voice is very pleasant. I'm currently decluttering. 😊
This is off topic, but I have to point this out, my first second impression: You look like a beautiful porcelain doll❤ what do you do for your healthy skin? Please don't tell me it is simply all genetics and sunscreen😅 you look really happy and content. Speaks for your message!
Aw thank you for your kind comment :) I do have an older video about my skincare habits, but I basically still do the same things: th-cam.com/video/aqArakP5Sb0/w-d-xo.html The only thing I would add is that I now also use products with hyaluronic acid, since I'm a bit older than in that video (3 years) so I'm starting to see some fine lines, and I really notice a big difference since I started using those products. Other than that, it's all in the video! :)
This is my favorite video you have. I am worried if I get rid of it then I won’t deserve to get it back if I need it .
Thank you so much.
OMG! You are so right!
Whoaaaa! The mic is fabulous!
Thanks! :) It's big though 😅
Having seen many decluttering stories on YT, most everyone tells stories about practically every little thing the own. It’s as if they are letting go of a person and not an object.
I have a "uniform" of sorts I wear. I got rid of most things that don't work with it. It fits my personality. I'm struggling with getting rid of the last items mostly because my husband likes them.
Heart of Kentucky. SIMPLE HAPPY ZEN. Hi VERA in the NETHERLANDS. So joyful to see you. I prayed for you and your love ones. Hope you have a totally Blessed day in every way. Love you. Katie.
I struggle with #21 because I am by nature a prepper (even had a podcast about it) and I grew up without the necessities a lot of the time.
9:14 became a subscriber ❤
Hi I'm like that at shopping at boutiques just gotta get it before someone else does.. not anymore I've saved alot too . I haveto declutter more I'm a scared city mindset and declutter guilt ...thanks. 💖..
Spot on as always, Your hard work on creating an amazing result is sp greatly appreciated, x;s from NM
Aw thank you so much, I appreciate that!!
I have to say, i think all of these points resonated with me at least somewhat or in a big way! Thank you for this video. ❤ I havent started my decluttering process yet, but I'm finding it very helpful to educate myself first and also have alot of my experiences validated by others, which makes this whole process seem more achievable ❤😊
Charity shops &bargin stores turn u into a shopaholic
Nicely done
Hi Vera, great video, very insightful, as always :)) I just wanted to say that I now live in the Netherlands (as an international student) and it is always so fun when I can relate to your small comments such as the one about the rain (I for sure did a happy dance)! :DD Keep it up and have a nice day :))
This video validated me. 🥲I've had hoarding tendencies for many years; however, within the past couple of years or so, I've had a strong urge to minimalize as much as possible because it's easy for me to become overwhelmed by being surrounded by too much stuff. I own way less than I used to, and I'm happier. I still want to declutter more. I just get overwhelmed because it feels like too much when I open the closet door. Most of the stuff I have a hard time getting rid of is due to sentimental value. What drives me nuts is that I haven't used or worn the stuff in _years,_ and I've been just fine but, the moment I go to put it in a donate pile, I hesitate. I appreciate this video.
I love the idea of taking a picture of something we see in a store that we want but know we don't need. It's a great way to ponder it a bit and, if I still want it later, I can get it. This approach would save me from rash, unnecessary spending.
Thanks for posting!
Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts! Glad to hear owning less is making you happier too :) I do have an older video that's a deepdive into sentimental clutter, so maybe that one could also be helpful for you: th-cam.com/video/7AF5tH1D-pI/w-d-xo.html
I like to decorate with necessary items like a broom, a duster, fly swatter ect. No pointless decoration just to fill up space. To a point.
So many of these points resonate with me! Thank you
It's such a pretty dress you're wearing. Love your style!❤
I have post from my stress disorder and I had a bad childhood, so small spaces freak me out and I will tell you if a place is too crowded too dirty or has loud music. I can leave very easily I think that’s why the dollar trees that are clean, give me to buy so much because they don’t have music. They’re calm and peaceful and clean and everything is in its own like I’ll crafts and one plates in another and that makes me buy more plus overstimulating colors make me leave too. I don’t know why, but I feel very nauseous.
Plus, if somebody’s really rude or I can’t find anybody to help me, or they act like they’re stuff great that means your stuffs not great and I leave very quickly
My Ghosh I loved this video , declutter guilt I relate a lot
I was very very guilty of saving for special occasions things, even when i was a kid heh so i had to work on that a lot. I realized how long it takes to use somethings up . Like soap or body wash it doesn't actually go that fast. so use the special stuff once a week. light those candles.
Hi Vera! I watch your videos for a while now and I always find them very useful and honestly they help me to calm and be less anxious. I was wondering, what can you do when, like me, you want to tend to minimalism but you are a collector. When you collect certain things that you really love and are passionate about and even with Vera's kind of reasoning or using the Marie Kondo method, you still want to keep these things cause you REALLY care and "spark joy", do you have any tips?
Love, Linda
Thank you Vera! I really enjoy your videos!! You really do B such a great job on them.
Aw thank you so much, I appreciate that :)