I was horrified I thought we might need a divorce- and then you said you love her and now I am settling back down, tbh I would have listened that’s how much I like you xx
I just went through my box of cards and letters from loved ones that are no longer with me that I’ve been hauling around for over thirty-five years and five moves. I realized that these pieces of paper that I was clinging to, thinking they were special because they had the handwriting of those I’d lost, were instead holding me back from really feeling my grief and being able to forgive the universe for the way things went down. I put them all through the shredder two days ago while ugly-sobbing so hard my husband came into the room panicked thinking I was dying. I still have lovely memories of my peeps, I don’t need the mail they sent me when I was a kid. I’m still a little worried I’m going to have regrets later, but it was a catharsis that needed to happen, and for now, I feel free. Seeing this today, seeing you and others working through such difficult emotions, I mean, yeah, I was crying all over again, but it was really helpful. Thank you for putting yourself out there.
Mum mum died 13 years ago and I kept a jumper that she bought me for Christmas when I was around 15. It was misshapen and too big and no longer my style but I couldn’t let it go. A friend of mine took it (with my permission) and made it into a bag which I needed to keep the pieces of a game I played with my mum called Rummikub. I LOVE this. It’s repurposed for something I actually needed and use regularly. Now I have the memory in the game and the jumper. The same friend makes patchwork teddy bears out of pieces of clothing from deceased relatives. I don’t have children but if I did I couldn’t think of anything more beautiful than giving them a teddy made out of my mums favourite clothes.
Marie saved my mental health. I was stressed like Racheal and wanted a life with LESS but didn’t know HOW. After reading the book I had the mental shift needed to start and it has been a game changer. Five years later and I’m forever grateful and when I feel like things are accumulating again I do a good declutter and feel so much better.
Sparking joy doesn't really work for me, but where Marie Kondo does work for me is decluttering by category instead of by room/space. Gathering everything of a category together from around the house and then going through it made me so much more successful than my previous attempts. I managed to get rid of probably 75% of my belongings this way.
I would spend hours listening you talking about how you went through the pain of detachment from stuff, but not from memories. you are a tough one, and thanks for being an inspiration for us :)
Me? Curious to hear what she would say. My benchmark books were...read in this order... Karen Kingston: Clear your clutter with Feng Shui. Peter Walsh: It's all too much. Quotes: A horizontal surface is not a storage solution. You cannot fit 5 cubic meters of stuff into 3 cubic meters of space no matter how hard you try. Marie Kondo: The magic of tidying up. Quote: Keep only that which sparks joy. File don't pile. You already have everything you need. Margreta Magnessen: The gentle art of Swedish death cleaning.
I LOVE when you talk about minimalism in the context of relationships and society. I think a lot of channels are in the decluttering "moment" and yours has grown into its own space that resonates with those of us a few decades in. :-) I haven't gotten into Marie Kondo yet but will watch her show and circle back.
I really love her and reading her books and watching her shows made me look at things in a totally different way. I am on my journey to become a minimalist, and what she says about just having what really sparks joy, makes a lot of sense for me. I'm a psychologist and one thing that most patients tell me is that when they are surrounded by a lot of things, they can't focus at all. And that's totally true. I started decluttering my house 4 years ago, and even having decluttered almost 50% of our things, we have a long way ahead. But the most interesting thing is that i don't miss any of the items I have decluttered. I am not really sure I will be a minimalist one day, but I am pretty happy with what I have accomplished so far. Love your videos and tks for sharing your journey with us! Hugs from Brazil.
Yes I have the same experience with the lack of focus when I’m surrounded by clutter! We need more research studies on this topic. 👏 Go as far as you need and good luck finding that balance. 🤗
I come from generations of emotional hoarding and I’m actively working hard to break the cycle. Something about you affect and energy is very peaceful and calming and non-judgmental and I really really appreciate it ❤
A lot of Marie’s philosophy lends well to minimalism but It’s about sparking joy and surrounding yourself with things you love, which could work in any type of lifestyle including maximalism.
I tend to disagree because of her focus on how much you have and I think once you’re surrounded by spark joy items you would feel less impetus to buy more excessive things but I’ve certainly seen people on here use her method and finish with way too much stuff ( imo) 😂 I’m also biased because I don’t like to have a ton of things so I’m skeptical when someone for example is like “yes all 50 pairs of shoes spark joy for me 😌” to each their own!
Your quote "Focus on having the life you want, not wanting the life you had" really resonated with me. I would even say (for myself): "Focus on the life you want, not the life you wished you had (in the past)". I've had a difficult and very lonely upbringing and I often catch myself thinking about how I wished things were, and that causes me to lose focus on living in the moment. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences. It must be tough, so kudos to you.
Marie Kondo is a huge inspiration for me, I've made more videos for it then I can count! But I always really enjoy seeing how much of an impact her minimalist ideas have on people's lives because it's so inspiring and it's a reminder I'm still not done with my decluttering journey! I just finished decluttering my kitchen and now cooking is so much easier.
I love Marie Kondo, and fully agree I love the kindness she shows and how she doesn’t make any of this dramatic. I’ve never really figured out the “spark joy” method for myself though (recently Dawn from the Minimal Mom did a video talking about messages your items are sending you, and that is a very similar, but opposite method - realizing what is sending you negative messages and relieving yourself of those. That seems to resonate with me so far!) I have adopted the Konmarie method of folding since I first saw the show and I’ve been doing it for the last couple of years. I absolutely love this method and will never return to what I was doing before!
I am not a fan of the Konmare Method, but I really enjoyed this video and your candidness. I wish we could all be more open with our feelings, too. We'd have a different society then.
Loved this video. It's so true that you need to only deal with your things. I wanted to decluter our ridiculous amount of DVDs this week and for the first time had an issue with my husband. We dealt with it but he is not with me on my journey. So whilst I can decluter mine and my daughter's things and also house items without any questions or problems there are still many things I need to continue to live with just out of respect for my husband. It is very difficult when the whole household is not on the same page. But I I'm staying on my journey 💪💪🚪🚪🚪
Yes it’s definitely tough when a couple isn’t on the same page, but speaking from experience that doesn’t mean it won’t change in the future. Kisses 😘 from Germany 🇩🇪
Lol she was the reason I really started decluttering but it was so hard at first I felt so broken but she made me feel it was ok and cleaned my way out of my depression and 50 lbs from her book i had it on repeat!!!!!!
I totally agree on episode 4. It is an important perspective that we don’t see in decluttering online much. So glad it inspired you to do your channel. Love your videos!
6 minutes into yr video and I feel the tears welling up too. I'd never heard the notion of having a broken "what sparks joy" gauge but oh! How that resonated with me! As an American living abroad I also feel that keeping everything from home and my past is essential. I've come a long way on overcoming this, but I do give myself a lot of leeway.
Great video. I love Marie Kondo’s books, but we don’t watch television anymore. I think a good starting point for people who are overwhelmed by laundry is Dana K. White’s books, podcasts and TH-cam. My favorite tip from Dana is if you have a ton of laundry, most of what is left in the close and dresser can be decluttered because your favorites are in the laundry. I struggle with all the stuff my parents saved. I realize that the piling on generations of stuff is not sustainable. We have one child and he needs space to get around more easily than stuff. I need to reduce a bookcase full of photos to a couple of albums, so they are more access and useful.
This! You have such a big genuine heart and a lovely perspective on the world. It is why I love watching your videos, and reading/watching Marie Kondo. You are so vulnerable and non-judgmental. You don't just accept that others live differently, but value it. It is so beautiful and rare for someone to live in a healthy way, see beyond themselves and value the way others live too. You and these other amazing women, just give me all the healthy, positive vibes. You and women like you are like having a tribe of role models. Most of us will never meet, but the impact you all have by sharing your kindness, vulnerability, courage, and guidance is immeasurable. Thank you!
For your kids' dressers at 9:17, still KonMari fold. Put them vertically with the fold at the top and the side facing out. It's like a book if the end was facing out instead of the spine and the spine is up. That is how I have my shirts and shorts on my closet shelf. Then I can still see everything and get things out and it usually stands up very well. If there is a SUPER soft shirt then it can tip or slump, but you could also just roll those items. Then you can "stack" them like you see yarn in a yarn store with the yarn end out. I loved this video and your appreciation for KonMari. 💖
My heart sank when you said you don't like Marie Kondo! I love her too! 2016 is the year I started changing my life for the better with simplicity and minimalism 😀
Glad to hear someone claim that Marie Kondo isn’t a minimalist ! Because I heard so many people on yt say that she is a minimalist and a “bad minimalist” and I’m like “she didn’t say she is a minimalist!”. I embrace minimalism and loved the show on Netflix and the book of Mari Kondo but I don’t consider Mari Kondo and minimalism as the same. For me they complete each other ! Sorry for my bad English, I’m french… And I love your videos by the way, even if I’m a 25 woman not married and without children ! I also don’t have sentimental attachment to the objects as you have but I understand you and support you !! You go girl
Your advice to either sell it or donate it personally to someone (I recommend the “Buy nothing” Facebook groups) is very helpful. While not everyone is showing gratitude, the vast majority is and it brings comfort knowing your item will be useful to someone else ❤️
I began curating my wardrobe 35 years ago when I traveled full time for work. Travelers are aware of every ounce carried but also want to be prepared for the unexpected. You never know when a work trip will turn into a fun weekend at a vacation destination without a stop at home for clothes. I hunted out the perfect sundress that could double as a nightgown, etc. Multiple moves also trained me to minimize and to make good use of online selling sites to get rid of things with less guilt. Never the less, when I first read Marie Kondo's books, I did learn new ideas. I especially loved the permission to get rid of gifts and that it is no disrespect or disregard to the gifter to do so. I had hung on to things I didn't use just because I loved the person who gave them to me. The real gift is in the moment of gifting. The gift itself is the residue. I also like Kondo's recognition of the importance of gratitude when you say thank you to your items. I don't literally say thank you, or even think the words, but I do feel a respect for things having served their purpose, even if the purpose is just to teach me that I don't want/like/need that sort of thing.
Yes, the gratitude is so healing! I really love what you said about gifting, is that a quote from a book or did you just make that up on the fly??? Beautiful! ✨
I tried to watch her show but pulling everything out of the closet or wherever is just too overwhelming for me. I just declutter a little at a time. But hey whatever works! We are all different. I also like to “quarantine” items that I am not using but might be attached to. Once they are put away for awhile and I forget about them, then I can easily get rid of them. 💜💜 Loved your assessment of her show though.
I’m so glad I missed out on the seasonal decor compulsion, I have half a dozen special items that come out every year I can’t imagine completely changing my home decor every season or holiday! 😱
Oh my gosh me too bc that would have been hoards of other stuff I had to declutter. I still have too much Christmas stuff but at least it is manageable and I do pare it down some more every year.
I totally remember watching these episodes with my husband. The one with the lady who lost her husband made us both cry!! It's burned into my memory how poignant that one was. Thank you for sharing that quote at the end too - fear is so paralyzing and a huge thief of joy!
Dear Marissa, I soo love your channel! I am going through hard times, and your videos always inspire me and make me feel better! I cry and I laugh with you! Hugs from Mainz, Germany!♡
What are YOUR thoughts on Marie Kondo and her tidying method? Here are the books that started it all: amzn.to/3tcJOyx . My review of Season Two "Sparking Joy" is now up here: th-cam.com/video/9ALZm5sCOiw/w-d-xo.html
Marie Kondo got me started in my minimalism journey. Starting with my clothes was the best! From there, I was able to go through bins and bins…and more bins. Then, I got onto TH-cam and found you and a few more great people. You have all helped me so, so much! Decluttering and changing one’s life is extremely emotional. Thank you for never apologizing for your emotions! :) Hugs!
I also love her! Especially because her goal isn't about having minimal things but only having things that spark joy. Sparking joy is the first part of my life mantra 💜
Marie Kondo is great. I just read her second Book and I discovered the first season of "Sparking Joy". Thank you very much for informing us that the new season will start soon. I am looking forward to it. It always gives me extra pushes to sort out. Watching the first season this week also took care for me sorting out quite some books that still made it to remain in my shelf - not any longer. Now I only have books that spark joy. :)
I binge watch everything Marie Kondo, and it scares my husband how influential she is on my life (in a good way). I have what I guess you could call "status hoarders/maximalist hoarders" in my family? They bought into the old idea that LOTS of objects = money from the 1950s/60s capitalist advertising. My grandparents' house gives me claustrophobia...
I have never actually used the KonMari method, but I love to watch her earlier show. I watch a lot of videos on youtube that are ”KonMari style” and it’s so satisfying to watch. For me I struggle with feeling overwhelmed and that’s why I like to declutter one area at the time. Like one box, one drawer etc. The spark joy concept does not work for me ”right out of the box” because I don’t feel sparks about everything I own, some thing I just use and need to have wheather appropiate clothing. But it has helped me to get rid of things that I kept even though it didn’t fit or was uncomfortable. Oh and also her folding system, I love it!
I love this idea of commentary on Marie Kondo's series!! I love you as a creator and as a minimalist, and I just want to tell you that you can't do wrong by me. Whatever content you produce, I'm always here to see what new you got to say! It all feels fresh, unforced and very Marissa. Have a nice day :)
Hahaha, thanks so much! I was a little bit nervous about trying a commentary style video, but I had a lot of fun on this topic that is very near and dear to my ❤️. Thanks for watching! 🤗
I’m just now catching up on your videos, I had a health scare recently. My doctor found a lump and I’m waiting for the results from all the tests I had done. I’ve been feeling a little down but today I decided to to go on TH-cam and watch the videos I’d missed these past few weeks. I don’t know if you will see this but if you do I want you to know that your video lifted my spirits and you are absolutely making a difference in people’s lives. Thank you so much for continuing to share your story and giving so many of us much needed joy and inspiration!
I began my journey of decluttering after my father died ( he had the squirrels syndrome lol) and I promised to myself that my child will not have to do the same for my things…so I began slowly in 2009 and still continue today but the mari condo method was my first cue to began. After that Courtney Curver was my teacher for the clothing and minimalism and ‘the minimalists’ continue to teach me and give me a lot of material to think about …it’s a process but Condo method was so new to me and inspiring that I gave a chance and I never regret it. Thank’s for sharing! I will surely watch the show even if I can’t believe ( not a jugement) that people feel good when they are so overwhelmed by stuff…for me it’s so intrusive. I can’t breath and I can’t figure what is like to do the dusting and cleaning of all that stuff…a full time job…😩😩😩
I just realized you are almost at 80k subscribers now! Your channel has really taken off! I'm super glad, as I have always enjoyed your content, and am glad others appreciate you too.
I watched and loved that series! It helped me declutter since I moved into a 2 bedroom apartment to 1 bedroom smaller house. It was amazing how many things I was able to let go especially my books. I was really emotional about it and selling my law books helped me feel less guilty about it.
I love seeing all the comments talking about how many YEARS they've spent decluttering so far. I often think to myself that it should be a thing I get done in a few months, so I get discouraged. But, seeing the comments here has given me hope. Just sad that I found this channel when you decided to get off TH-cam, but I'm happy for you!
Lol the cat emoji at first is killing me ,idky I laughed my ass off for that one 😂 ,Marissa ur videos keep getting better and better and I obio love them ,u made me open up on my own minimalism journey so thank you 😊💞
Thanks so much Irene, I sure had fun making that part although it was unexpected! I was trying to slurp loud enough that the microphone would pick it up, but then I choked. 🤣 Happy accident.
Please don't ever say you don't like Marie Kondo even if it follows with you love her, that nearly costed you this video being switched off, its great you were fast enough🤣🤣thanks for great video
I live in a tinyyyyyyy (15 square meters) flat, so I am kind of forced to be a minimalist and have only the essential. I have decluttered so much over the years, I love it, I still find things to declutter. And I must admit I actually am a bit "sad" that I don't have a big pile of stuff to declutter anymore x)
I think I enjoyed listening to you talk about the series even more than I enjoyed watching it! I loved this video! You are so kind and sensitive in your response. And I totally agree that we should open our hearts and share our feeling and struggles. Every person has them and they can isolate us but when we share it brings us together. Thank you for being so open and genuine, we love you for it snd you help so many people I’m sure of it! ❤️ 🐿🚪🥲❤️
Hi, I’m new to your channel and have been binge-watching your videos. I’m not a minimalist yet, but my 13 year old son was killed 7 months ago and it has launched me on a completely different path than I ever thought I’d be on. I was making good decluttering progress when he was alive, and it alllllll went to 💩 when he died. Now that I’m fighting to create a new normal, and honestly just ‘be ok’, I’m realizing how much the clutter and excess things around me are adding to my anxiety. My goal is to have peace in my home. I need that. And I want to honor my son, not create a shrine for him. So I’m working through my house a little at a time, even slowly tackling some of his items as I’m able to… Your videos are helping and inspiring me- so I wanted to let you know I appreciate you!
I’m so incredibly sorry for your loss, sending you lots of hugs and healing energy. ❤️🩹 I’m glad that you are finding your path to honor your son and your own home and life as well.
Her book got me started on my journey too! I also don’t identify as a minimalist per se, but I am trying to decluttering and adopt some minimalist practices: being mindful of what enters the home, one in/one out practices, etc.
Episode 4 resonates with me so much too. The bulk of my decluttering journey has been under the weight of grief at the loss of my husband to cancer. It’s hard enough for me to declutter at the best of times, let alone when everything becomes a sentimental item. I am almost at the peak of my mountain, which contains the most sentimental of items. I know I will get there and I look forward to that day. Thank you for your channel. It’s a blessing to me on my path xx
Thanks for this video! I am an emotional hoarder and just never could name it or deal with it or get thru or past it. I cried when you got emotional, I get it. I got so much from your video, more then the Netflix series then Kon Mari, it did help but it helped to tell the personal touches. I am almost an empty nester, I had years raising children with a messy home and they don't function like normal adults and they are clutter and not cleaners at all and makes me so sad. I was so good at working hard but as I struggled, I could not keep everything up. I feel hope and plan to work toward Minimalism.
I have to say I just love you! You literally saved me from impulse buying! Your thoughts about money, and your ability to make life happen unapologetically are amazing! THANK YOU!
The ‘Tidying Up…’ series was something I watched when I knew I had a summer to clear out a storage unit, of things from my old bedroom before I moved to Uni, and those belonging to my late dad. I started with clothes at home first, and the difference the folding technique made (and still makes!) to my everyday is insane! Never going back, it just doesn’t make sense! With this hit of confidence, I was able to hugely minimise the amount of stuff I had. Enough to empty the storage container, but I did keep some things in my mum’s loft as there was so so much. It’s now organised in about 8 large clear containers, with most of it being childhood/ photos/ papers/ dad’s things. Basically, the hugely sentimental things! It was so helpful to see how to use a decluttering strategy, but I really hope that the new series shows some more of the thought “process,” particularly with dealing with paper! There was one episode that got so close… and then it just cut to “i have less paper”… YES BUT WHICH BIT DID YOU KEEP AND WHY? He had things he’d written and ideas and sentimental notes… did he keep them? I just know he had less haha. I’ve got rid of so much stuff in the past year but still feel surrounded. Visually it still looks full, but I know that the cupboards were full to bursting and now have accessible and organised boxes (so I don’t just know where to find things, but do go and get them AND PUT THEM BACK) once they’re finished with. Lots of things I’m still selling, too (I had to donate a lot due to quantity, but I prefer to sell due to all of your reasons, but also because if charity shops can’t sell items, even if they’re in perfect condition, they may end up in landfill). 🌱 My bedroom is no better than landfill if things aren’t being used, but if I can make sure landfill isn’t it’s next (or final) destination (check out terracycle.com for weird and wonderful ways to recycle otherwise non-recyclable things!) then I’m much more likely to be able to let it go.
I love that you always keep it real and cry in every(?) video. I’m really emotional as well but don’t think I would be brave enough to share that online
Speaking of tea, I was drinking in everything you were saying in this video! I have a similar thought process when it comes to Marie Kondo's style of organizing. Some elements are minimalistic and others aren't so it was super enjoyable to hear your take on it because I resonate with almost everything you said! : D I finished watching the entire video and I have to say, by far, this is my favorite video of yours yet!! Your attention to detail and clarity of expression just wowed me. Well done, Marissa, well done!
I discovered your channel today and I’ve watched 10+ videos. I have always wanted to be a minimalist and have done many purges but I don’t end up feeling good afterwards. Your videos have been very helpful and inspiring. Thank you for sharing your journey and tools to help create a more sustainable and happy life through minimalism
Marissa I love you ❤️ My mother was a very sentimental person who had great difficulty parting with almost everything! - She taught all three of her daughters that we must look after and hold on tight to just about everything. Here I am with your help trying hard to feel less attached/sentimental about my stuff - Phew! Such a relief. Did I mention that I am 64! Wish I had your help before. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU 🙏
Your videos give me so much power and energy for decluttering! Our bathroom cupboard was all filled up. I finally gained courage to go through it. I even found a bottle dated year 2011! There are many things there still, but those are what I will need in highly potential. Thank you!
I'll be honest: I have mixed feelings about most vids about minimalism and decluttering. While it's mostly helpful, these youtubers are often so patronizing and complacent. 😬 (And I always suspect that a lot of things are fake.) YOU are completely DIFFERENT! You're funny and self-deprecating, and you have a cheeky, childish side that you let slip through in a more or less subtle manner. You are a real person with real strengths and weaknesses, creative ideas and crazy thoughts, full of warmth and emotion. You not only talk about your victories, but also about the fear. That makes you so damn special. Such a GEM! Thank you!
When I had to put my dog down my family was trying to console me. I asked them if they could help me clear out his stuff (dog bed, leash, etc) because seeing the items in my home made things worse for me. The memories of him are enough ❤️
Hi! So good to see you. I was wondering just last night where you have been. I use you as a measure for myself and watching others declutter. I have to say that there are many who want to stake a claim to minimalism but still keep enough for 3 households. It seems we all peel off layers until we can get to Zen. :) Also I am glad to see that you are still using your feelings to work through all that emotional stuff, not actual stuff but the emotions that still linger. I'm sad when I see your tears but I know you are helping many recognize and validate their own feelings of loss. I know you have helped me because I am finally starting to loosen the grip on my mothers things. These things arent my mother, she will never return so holding the volume I have doesn't replace her. I have a few smalls now. I enjoy Marie Kondo for the orderliness her system can bring. I need order but I need to get rid of lots of stuff. I look forward to new shows and next week with you.
All around great thoughts and points, Jane and keep on peeling. ✨🧅✨ BTW, I release a video every week, so maybe check and make sure that you are still subscribed and have your notifications turned on if you haven’t been seeing my videos, because I do know that TH-cam had unsubscribed a few people with some kind of glitch…the joy of technology! 😅
Great video. So true before shots are important because you "get use to your space".. it helps you feel you have achieved with every declutter... especially if you are doing it slowly over time. Memory boxes are so important.. it also forms a physical boundary. They have 2 big clear boxes each.. 1) with 20 hanging files where flat stuff is stored for each year from birth to 18yrs old. This also has photo albums and a wallet with their certificates in it. 2)one clear plastic bin for the "bulky stuff" eg 1st baby clothes etc They go through these boxes with me 1x yr. If they are no longer sure why they kept things, they are happy to get rid of that item and then they have space for new things that they consider important. .. they know the 2 boxes are all they can have... because I explain, the more you have, the less important the items can be and they will also have to carry these things around with them all their lives.. so the things have to be worth the effort.
I am stopping this video to make a cup.... AND just want to say I LOVE your channel. I started watching last month. Your video on lessons learned in 40 years of life -- wonderful. I am 35 and gleaning from your perspective.
Thank you so much for being so open and honest with your feelings. I love your videos. Watching your videos about your journey towards minimalism has been so helpful. I hope that one day I will be as minimalist as you. Lots of love. Amina
I finally found containers that are pretty and work to make my life better. The oxo steel containers have changed my shopping. I can see at a glance what we have and what we need AND it is beautiful for the eye. It makes a huge difference to me if things look “right”. When things are beautiful, it “sparks joy” to maintain the area. I am doing better at finding items that aren’t just beautiful but fill a necessary function in my home. Sometimes a pretty but useful item can make all the difference in motivation to clean/maintain. I went a little Homegoods crazy but I have containers that actually work for me and organize things to where my sense of what feels right is satisfied. I would go insane with mismatched jars. Looking at my habits now, I’m thinking I should look into a diagnosis for ocd. 😂
I'm so grateful to find this channel...I'm in my early twenties and already feel overwhelmed with the stuff I have. Most of the stuff is sentimental to me and I just didn't know what to do. You helped me realize how important decluttering and minimalism is. Thank you soooo much! Now I know what to do with so much stuff of mine. Thank you 🚪🚪
Same here. I only have one room in a shared house… I’ve got rid of so much this past year (multiple cars full) and I still have S.T.U.F.F.! However, the cupboards are full but not full to bursting. They are functional, and I can access everything in my room for the first time ever (reshuffling needed, but no huge bins stacked with lids on top of each other). This week I have a whole floor space clear without piles! The folding system is something that instantly helped me (no shoved-full drawers that won’t close for over a year now! :) ). The things that are visually “out” are: a) things that I love to look at (and far less than I used to have - because I’d rather look at a few lovely pieces than loads of nice things!) b) things I use everyday that doesn’t make sense to go in a drawer (though as my storage spaces have thinned out, I’ve found putting more daily things in drawers is something I naturally do more of) c) things I haven’t “finished” with, because I’m super forgetful and habits are difficult to break! I put things away if they have a home and keep on top of “hot spots,” though paper is a huge sticking point for me! d) things to sell! I have an ongoing eBay pile that I add to and grab items from once they sell. It really helps me to let go of those things I’m not sure of as I know someone else wants it. I haven’t regretted a thing I’ve sold on eBay for that reason. The Marie Kondo series 1 lacked the thinking process I needed to declutter personally beyond clothing. I have found TH-cam channels like this one to be more valuable. Marissa’s channel and ‘A Hoarder’s Heart’ have been pillars in guiding me in my own decluttering journey. Alongside ‘Diane in Denmark’’s Fly Lady playlist. It’s all about baby steps. If you watch Miss Heart’s channel (from ‘A Hoarder’s Heart’), do watch from the beginning! She has currently had a breakthrough and I can’t keep up in the past couple of weeks. I’m so proud of her healing, but I’m not there yet haha (though I also am not married with kids :p ). The old videos have more of her talking through every single decision, and that’s what’s really helped… because only then can I have hope that decluttering while being wired to hold on so tightly and emotionally to things really is possible, and that it does get easier (which I have experienced myself) to let things go!
I have a problem with visualisation for what I want for my future. I don't feel I have a future. I am recovering from recent heart surgery after being ill all lockdown year and the shock of being diagnosed with coronary heart disease in all three main arteries. Apart from surgery I have irregular heart rhythm and coping with the symptoms makes physical things like decluttering hard. I already had a clutter problem, and two days before the heart surgery I had a mains water burst in my flat from the flat above, with water pouring in through the main light and down the walls. It was a race to try to salvage things from water damage and empty the room where I had some precious things stored, family photos and things that were my grandmother's plus my collection of valuable childrens pop up books...all water damaged. The stress was intense at a time when I am supposed to stay calm! I came home from surgery to face the contents of the room still spread about in every living area of my flat where it had all been laid to dry it out, the mould and damp conditions (there is already damp and mould in the flat) and not being strong enough to sort through everything has had a bad effect on me and with the uncertainty of my heart condition I can not visualise a future. I feel very depressed and unable to look forward. I have a number of health issues including disability and have always tried to keep strong and not let it beat me..if you give in it doesn't help right? But it IS beating me now and I can see no way out and feel totally overwhelmed.
Marie Kondo is my heroine 🥰 at first I thought her book title was quite pretentious. But... her views were so refreshing and eye opening to me that I can honestly say that it changed my life.
I think this was one of your best videos ever, I loved Mari Kondos show but couldn't articulate it as well as you did. Thank you for doing this! Have a great weekend!
the 1st i did was ask if it fit me, or if it needs mending (be realistic, if you are really busy, not going to happen) let it go. then ask do you feel good when you wear it, is the color flattering on you. if its sentimental, create a sentimental box.
I love Her books! Her books is one reason I stopped collecting stuff!!!! I am down sizing my closet I been sick and in pain for many years and things have pilled up! My hobbies are my down fall. And I am learning to let go of fantasy craft ideas, I just can’t do this anymore and I am so anxious with all my stuff. I love your boys room so sweet and I am going for that peaceful look.
Wow! THANK YOU! You are a gem, beautiful inside and out. This is the first time I’ve seen your videos and it had a huge impact on my motivation to push through my hurdles to declutter, emotional, mental and physical.
I was horrified I thought we might need a divorce- and then you said you love her and now I am settling back down, tbh I would have listened that’s how much I like you xx
🤣🤣🤣 Never, my dear! Settle in with something to drink and enjoy (just don’t choke like I did LOL!)
🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂 saaaaame … I was like “wait WHAT?!?!?”
I was going to call her a Karen lol
Hi. What tbh stands for? Please.
@@liviaramirez1096 to be honest -tbh
Never apologize for showing emotion. Thank you for sharing.
I just went through my box of cards and letters from loved ones that are no longer with me that I’ve been hauling around for over thirty-five years and five moves. I realized that these pieces of paper that I was clinging to, thinking they were special because they had the handwriting of those I’d lost, were instead holding me back from really feeling my grief and being able to forgive the universe for the way things went down. I put them all through the shredder two days ago while ugly-sobbing so hard my husband came into the room panicked thinking I was dying. I still have lovely memories of my peeps, I don’t need the mail they sent me when I was a kid. I’m still a little worried I’m going to have regrets later, but it was a catharsis that needed to happen, and for now, I feel free. Seeing this today, seeing you and others working through such difficult emotions, I mean, yeah, I was crying all over again, but it was really helpful. Thank you for putting yourself out there.
Mum mum died 13 years ago and I kept a jumper that she bought me for Christmas when I was around 15. It was misshapen and too big and no longer my style but I couldn’t let it go. A friend of mine took it (with my permission) and made it into a bag which I needed to keep the pieces of a game I played with my mum called Rummikub. I LOVE this. It’s repurposed for something I actually needed and use regularly. Now I have the memory in the game and the jumper.
The same friend makes patchwork teddy bears out of pieces of clothing from deceased relatives. I don’t have children but if I did I couldn’t think of anything more beautiful than giving them a teddy made out of my mums favourite clothes.
Marie saved my mental health. I was stressed like Racheal and wanted a life with LESS but didn’t know HOW. After reading the book I had the mental shift needed to start and it has been a game changer. Five years later and I’m forever grateful and when I feel like things are accumulating again I do a good declutter and feel so much better.
Sparking joy doesn't really work for me, but where Marie Kondo does work for me is decluttering by category instead of by room/space. Gathering everything of a category together from around the house and then going through it made me so much more successful than my previous attempts. I managed to get rid of probably 75% of my belongings this way.
I would spend hours listening you talking about how you went through the pain of detachment from stuff, but not from memories. you are a tough one, and thanks for being an inspiration for us :)
Thanks so much, Cristina - it’s nice to feel appreciated! ❤️
Marissa: "I don't like Marie Kondo"
Me: *gasp* 😱
Marissa: "I love her"
Me: *fewf* 😊
I had the same reaction!!!
Me? Curious to hear what she would say.
My benchmark books were...read in this order...
Karen Kingston: Clear your clutter with Feng Shui.
Peter Walsh: It's all too much. Quotes: A horizontal surface is not a storage solution. You cannot fit 5 cubic meters of stuff into 3 cubic meters of space no matter how hard you try.
Marie Kondo: The magic of tidying up. Quote: Keep only that which sparks joy. File don't pile. You already have everything you need.
Margreta Magnessen: The gentle art of Swedish death cleaning.
@@jo-annel.wright2975 I, too absolutely loved the Karen Kingston book!
I LOVE when you talk about minimalism in the context of relationships and society. I think a lot of channels are in the decluttering "moment" and yours has grown into its own space that resonates with those of us a few decades in. :-)
I haven't gotten into Marie Kondo yet but will watch her show and circle back.
Thanks so much, I really appreciate it! Definitely give it a watch - I’m trying to get my hubby to watch the new series with me tonight! 😆
I really love her and reading her books and watching her shows made me look at things in a totally different way. I am on my journey to become a minimalist, and what she says about just having what really sparks joy, makes a lot of sense for me. I'm a psychologist and one thing that most patients tell me is that when they are surrounded by a lot of things, they can't focus at all. And that's totally true. I started decluttering my house 4 years ago, and even having decluttered almost 50% of our things, we have a long way ahead. But the most interesting thing is that i don't miss any of the items I have decluttered. I am not really sure I will be a minimalist one day, but I am pretty happy with what I have accomplished so far. Love your videos and tks for sharing your journey with us! Hugs from Brazil.
Yes I have the same experience with the lack of focus when I’m surrounded by clutter! We need more research studies on this topic. 👏 Go as far as you need and good luck finding that balance. 🤗
Agreed! I am so influenced by visual clutter it is hard to focus on what I want to accomplish. I am hoping this will be the biggest change for me.
I come from generations of emotional hoarding and I’m actively working hard to break the cycle. Something about you affect and energy is very peaceful and calming and non-judgmental and I really really appreciate it ❤
A lot of Marie’s philosophy lends well to minimalism but It’s about sparking joy and surrounding yourself with things you love, which could work in any type of lifestyle including maximalism.
Great observation!
I tend to disagree because of her focus on how much you have and I think once you’re surrounded by spark joy items you would feel less impetus to buy more excessive things but I’ve certainly seen people on here use her method and finish with way too much stuff ( imo) 😂 I’m also biased because I don’t like to have a ton of things so I’m skeptical when someone for example is like “yes all 50 pairs of shoes spark joy for me 😌” to each their own!
Your quote "Focus on having the life you want, not wanting the life you had" really resonated with me. I would even say (for myself): "Focus on the life you want, not the life you wished you had (in the past)". I've had a difficult and very lonely upbringing and I often catch myself thinking about how I wished things were, and that causes me to lose focus on living in the moment. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences. It must be tough, so kudos to you.
You are my favorite minimalist because you bring so much humanity into your videos and you teach me sooo much. This was another great one, thanks! 💖👍👏
Aw, thanks so much, Kim! 🤗
Marie Kondo is a huge inspiration for me, I've made more videos for it then I can count! But I always really enjoy seeing how much of an impact her minimalist ideas have on people's lives because it's so inspiring and it's a reminder I'm still not done with my decluttering journey! I just finished decluttering my kitchen and now cooking is so much easier.
I love Marie Kondo, and fully agree I love the kindness she shows and how she doesn’t make any of this dramatic. I’ve never really figured out the “spark joy” method for myself though (recently Dawn from the Minimal Mom did a video talking about messages your items are sending you, and that is a very similar, but opposite method - realizing what is sending you negative messages and relieving yourself of those. That seems to resonate with me so far!)
I have adopted the Konmarie method of folding since I first saw the show and I’ve been doing it for the last couple of years. I absolutely love this method and will never return to what I was doing before!
I am not a fan of the Konmare Method, but I really enjoyed this video and your candidness. I wish we could all be more open with our feelings, too. We'd have a different society then.
Loved this video. It's so true that you need to only deal with your things. I wanted to decluter our ridiculous amount of DVDs this week and for the first time had an issue with my husband. We dealt with it but he is not with me on my journey. So whilst I can decluter mine and my daughter's things and also house items without any questions or problems there are still many things I need to continue to live with just out of respect for my husband. It is very difficult when the whole household is not on the same page. But I I'm staying on my journey 💪💪🚪🚪🚪
Yes it’s definitely tough when a couple isn’t on the same page, but speaking from experience that doesn’t mean it won’t change in the future. Kisses 😘 from Germany 🇩🇪
@@AtoZenLife 🤞🤞🤞hope so 🤗🤗
Lol she was the reason I really started decluttering but it was so hard at first I felt so broken but she made me feel it was ok and cleaned my way out of my depression and 50 lbs from her book i had it on repeat!!!!!!
I totally agree on episode 4. It is an important perspective that we don’t see in decluttering online much. So glad it inspired you to do your channel. Love your videos!
6 minutes into yr video and I feel the tears welling up too. I'd never heard the notion of having a broken "what sparks joy" gauge but oh! How that resonated with me! As an American living abroad I also feel that keeping everything from home and my past is essential. I've come a long way on overcoming this, but I do give myself a lot of leeway.
Great video. I love Marie Kondo’s books, but we don’t watch television anymore. I think a good starting point for people who are overwhelmed by laundry is Dana K. White’s books, podcasts and TH-cam. My favorite tip from Dana is if you have a ton of laundry, most of what is left in the close and dresser can be decluttered because your favorites are in the laundry.
I struggle with all the stuff my parents saved. I realize that the piling on generations of stuff is not sustainable. We have one child and he needs space to get around more easily than stuff. I need to reduce a bookcase full of photos to a couple of albums, so they are more access and useful.
This! You have such a big genuine heart and a lovely perspective on the world. It is why I love watching your videos, and reading/watching Marie Kondo. You are so vulnerable and non-judgmental. You don't just accept that others live differently, but value it. It is so beautiful and rare for someone to live in a healthy way, see beyond themselves and value the way others live too. You and these other amazing women, just give me all the healthy, positive vibes. You and women like you are like having a tribe of role models. Most of us will never meet, but the impact you all have by sharing your kindness, vulnerability, courage, and guidance is immeasurable. Thank you!
I love Marie Kondo she gave focus to my retirement. I decluttered systematically and wasn't guilty of keeping items that gave me joy💕👍🏻🥰
For your kids' dressers at 9:17, still KonMari fold. Put them vertically with the fold at the top and the side facing out. It's like a book if the end was facing out instead of the spine and the spine is up. That is how I have my shirts and shorts on my closet shelf. Then I can still see everything and get things out and it usually stands up very well. If there is a SUPER soft shirt then it can tip or slump, but you could also just roll those items. Then you can "stack" them like you see yarn in a yarn store with the yarn end out. I loved this video and your appreciation for KonMari. 💖
My heart sank when you said you don't like Marie Kondo! I love her too! 2016 is the year I started changing my life for the better with simplicity and minimalism 😀
Glad to hear someone claim that Marie Kondo isn’t a minimalist ! Because I heard so many people on yt say that she is a minimalist and a “bad minimalist” and I’m like “she didn’t say she is a minimalist!”. I embrace minimalism and loved the show on Netflix and the book of Mari Kondo but I don’t consider Mari Kondo and minimalism as the same. For me they complete each other !
Sorry for my bad English, I’m french…
And I love your videos by the way, even if I’m a 25 woman not married and without children ! I also don’t have sentimental attachment to the objects as you have but I understand you and support you !! You go girl
Your advice to either sell it or donate it personally to someone (I recommend the “Buy nothing” Facebook groups) is very helpful. While not everyone is showing gratitude, the vast majority is and it brings comfort knowing your item will be useful to someone else ❤️
I began curating my wardrobe 35 years ago when I traveled full time for work. Travelers are aware of every ounce carried but also want to be prepared for the unexpected. You never know when a work trip will turn into a fun weekend at a vacation destination without a stop at home for clothes. I hunted out the perfect sundress that could double as a nightgown, etc.
Multiple moves also trained me to minimize and to make good use of online selling sites to get rid of things with less guilt.
Never the less, when I first read Marie Kondo's books, I did learn new ideas. I especially loved the permission to get rid of gifts and that it is no disrespect or disregard to the gifter to do so. I had hung on to things I didn't use just because I loved the person who gave them to me. The real gift is in the moment of gifting. The gift itself is the residue.
I also like Kondo's recognition of the importance of gratitude when you say thank you to your items. I don't literally say thank you, or even think the words, but I do feel a respect for things having served their purpose, even if the purpose is just to teach me that I don't want/like/need that sort of thing.
Yes, the gratitude is so healing! I really love what you said about gifting, is that a quote from a book or did you just make that up on the fly??? Beautiful! ✨
I tried to watch her show but pulling everything out of the closet or wherever is just too overwhelming for me. I just declutter a little at a time. But hey whatever works! We are all different. I also like to “quarantine” items that I am not using but might be attached to. Once they are put away for awhile and I forget about them, then I can easily get rid of them. 💜💜 Loved your assessment of her show though.
I’m so glad I missed out on the seasonal decor compulsion, I have half a dozen special items that come out every year I can’t imagine completely changing my home decor every season or holiday! 😱
I'm fond of perishables/consumables as decor. The bowl of pomegranates and oranges on the table in fall, evergreen branches in vases in winter, etc.
Oh my gosh me too bc that would have been hoards of other stuff I had to declutter. I still have too much Christmas stuff but at least it is manageable and I do pare it down some more every year.
I totally remember watching these episodes with my husband. The one with the lady who lost her husband made us both cry!! It's burned into my memory how poignant that one was. Thank you for sharing that quote at the end too - fear is so paralyzing and a huge thief of joy!
Such a lovingly put-together series…truly ✨ joy! Cheers, Kristin.
Dear Marissa,
I soo love your channel! I am going through hard times, and your videos always inspire me and make me feel better! I cry and I laugh with you! Hugs from Mainz, Germany!♡
i love that you share how emotional the decluttering journey is.
What are YOUR thoughts on Marie Kondo and her tidying method? Here are the books that started it all: amzn.to/3tcJOyx . My review of Season Two "Sparking Joy" is now up here: th-cam.com/video/9ALZm5sCOiw/w-d-xo.html
Marie Kondo got me started in my minimalism journey. Starting with my clothes was the best! From there, I was able to go through bins and bins…and more bins. Then, I got onto TH-cam and found you and a few more great people. You have all helped me so, so much! Decluttering and changing one’s life is extremely emotional. Thank you for never apologizing for your emotions! :) Hugs!
I also love her! Especially because her goal isn't about having minimal things but only having things that spark joy. Sparking joy is the first part of my life mantra 💜
Marie Kondo is great. I just read her second Book and I discovered the first season of "Sparking Joy". Thank you very much for informing us that the new season will start soon. I am looking forward to it. It always gives me extra pushes to sort out. Watching the first season this week also took care for me sorting out quite some books that still made it to remain in my shelf - not any longer. Now I only have books that spark joy. :)
I binge watch everything Marie Kondo, and it scares my husband how influential she is on my life (in a good way).
I have what I guess you could call "status hoarders/maximalist hoarders" in my family? They bought into the old idea that LOTS of objects = money from the 1950s/60s capitalist advertising.
My grandparents' house gives me claustrophobia...
I have never actually used the KonMari method, but I love to watch her earlier show. I watch a lot of videos on youtube that are ”KonMari style” and it’s so satisfying to watch. For me I struggle with feeling overwhelmed and that’s why I like to declutter one area at the time. Like one box, one drawer etc. The spark joy concept does not work for me ”right out of the box” because I don’t feel sparks about everything I own, some thing I just use and need to have wheather appropiate clothing. But it has helped me to get rid of things that I kept even though it didn’t fit or was uncomfortable. Oh and also her folding system, I love it!
I love this idea of commentary on Marie Kondo's series!!
I love you as a creator and as a minimalist, and I just want to tell you that you can't do wrong by me. Whatever content you produce, I'm always here to see what new you got to say! It all feels fresh, unforced and very Marissa.
Have a nice day :)
Hahaha, thanks so much! I was a little bit nervous about trying a commentary style video, but I had a lot of fun on this topic that is very near and dear to my ❤️. Thanks for watching! 🤗
I’m just now catching up on your videos, I had a health scare recently. My doctor found a lump and I’m waiting for the results from all the tests I had done. I’ve been feeling a little down but today I decided to to go on TH-cam and watch the videos I’d missed these past few weeks. I don’t know if you will see this but if you do I want you to know that your video lifted my spirits and you are absolutely making a difference in people’s lives. Thank you so much for continuing to share your story and giving so many of us much needed joy and inspiration!
Caitlin, I will definitely be thinking about you - hugs from Germany 🇩🇪❤️
I hope you’re ok. Sending you good vibes from S. FL. 🌞
I began my journey of decluttering after my father died ( he had the squirrels syndrome lol) and I promised to myself that my child will not have to do the same for my things…so I began slowly in 2009 and still continue today but the mari condo method was my first cue to began. After that Courtney Curver was my teacher for the clothing and minimalism and ‘the minimalists’ continue to teach me and give me a lot of material to think about …it’s a process but Condo method was so new to me and inspiring that I gave a chance and I never regret it. Thank’s for sharing! I will surely watch the show even if I can’t believe ( not a jugement) that people feel good when they are so overwhelmed by stuff…for me it’s so intrusive. I can’t breath and I can’t figure what is like to do the dusting and cleaning of all that stuff…a full time job…😩😩😩
Beautiful points of “Life” ! People need to learn what makes them enjoy life and truly want to grow and LIVE! Living is so much of it’s own feeling
Marissa I just want to say how I appreciate what you do! I’m also on my minimalist journey. Thank you for your videos. You are such an inspiration 🐿
Thanks so much, Anna, I really appreciate it. 🐿 🤗
I just realized you are almost at 80k subscribers now! Your channel has really taken off! I'm super glad, as I have always enjoyed your content, and am glad others appreciate you too.
And you’ve been since since just about the beginning! 🤗 Thanks so much for your kind words.
It's a process I'm learning less is more, especially with food
I can really relate to the concept of EVERYTHING being emotional to me. My emotional barometer is broken. EVERYTHING feels like something I need.
I watched and loved that series! It helped me declutter since I moved into a 2 bedroom apartment to 1 bedroom smaller house. It was amazing how many things I was able to let go especially my books. I was really emotional about it and selling my law books helped me feel less guilty about it.
Oh that is so good! I also was a schoolbook hoarder…it was harder to sell after 10 years out of the field. 🥲 Wish I had done it sooner.
I love seeing all the comments talking about how many YEARS they've spent decluttering so far. I often think to myself that it should be a thing I get done in a few months, so I get discouraged. But, seeing the comments here has given me hope. Just sad that I found this channel when you decided to get off TH-cam, but I'm happy for you!
Lol the cat emoji at first is killing me ,idky I laughed my ass off for that one 😂 ,Marissa ur videos keep getting better and better and I obio love them ,u made me open up on my own minimalism journey so thank you 😊💞
Thanks so much Irene, I sure had fun making that part although it was unexpected! I was trying to slurp loud enough that the microphone would pick it up, but then I choked. 🤣 Happy accident.
@@AtoZenLife 😂 omg that is soo funnynlol 😂
Please don't ever say you don't like Marie Kondo even if it follows with you love her, that nearly costed you this video being switched off, its great you were fast enough🤣🤣thanks for great video
I live in a tinyyyyyyy (15 square meters) flat, so I am kind of forced to be a minimalist and have only the essential. I have decluttered so much over the years, I love it, I still find things to declutter. And I must admit I actually am a bit "sad" that I don't have a big pile of stuff to declutter anymore x)
I think I enjoyed listening to you talk about the series even more than I enjoyed watching it! I loved this video! You are so kind and sensitive in your response. And I totally agree that we should open our hearts and share our feeling and struggles. Every person has them and they can isolate us but when we share it brings us together. Thank you for being so open and genuine, we love you for it snd you help so many people I’m sure of it! ❤️
🐿🚪🥲❤️
Hi, I’m new to your channel and have been binge-watching your videos. I’m not a minimalist yet, but my 13 year old son was killed 7 months ago and it has launched me on a completely different path than I ever thought I’d be on. I was making good decluttering progress when he was alive, and it alllllll went to 💩 when he died. Now that I’m fighting to create a new normal, and honestly just ‘be ok’, I’m realizing how much the clutter and excess things around me are adding to my anxiety.
My goal is to have peace in my home. I need that. And I want to honor my son, not create a shrine for him. So I’m working through my house a little at a time, even slowly tackling some of his items as I’m able to…
Your videos are helping and inspiring me- so I wanted to let you know I appreciate you!
I’m so incredibly sorry for your loss, sending you lots of hugs and healing energy. ❤️🩹 I’m glad that you are finding your path to honor your son and your own home and life as well.
I didn't know there was a second season 😱 Gonna binge watch that right now... 😁🤩
thankyou for sharing , melissa
I’ve been avoiding my pantry but it’s on my to do list this week. Watched the Netflix show yesterday and it inspired me. I want my home to spark joy.
Her book got me started on my journey too! I also don’t identify as a minimalist per se, but I am trying to decluttering and adopt some minimalist practices: being mindful of what enters the home, one in/one out practices, etc.
Episode 4 resonates with me so much too. The bulk of my decluttering journey has been under the weight of grief at the loss of my husband to cancer. It’s hard enough for me to declutter at the best of times, let alone when everything becomes a sentimental item. I am almost at the peak of my mountain, which contains the most sentimental of items. I know I will get there and I look forward to that day. Thank you for your channel. It’s a blessing to me on my path xx
Thanks for this video! I am an emotional hoarder and just never could name it or deal with it or get thru or past it. I cried when you got emotional, I get it. I got so much from your video, more then the Netflix series then Kon Mari, it did help but it helped to tell the personal touches. I am almost an empty nester, I had years raising children with a messy home and they don't function like normal adults and they are clutter and not cleaners at all and makes me so sad. I was so good at working hard but as I struggled, I could not keep everything up. I feel hope and plan to work toward Minimalism.
I have to say I just love you! You literally saved me from impulse buying! Your thoughts about money, and your ability to make life happen unapologetically are amazing! THANK YOU!
Thanks for the comment and fist bump 👊 to you!
The ‘Tidying Up…’ series was something I watched when I knew I had a summer to clear out a storage unit, of things from my old bedroom before I moved to Uni, and those belonging to my late dad.
I started with clothes at home first, and the difference the folding technique made (and still makes!) to my everyday is insane! Never going back, it just doesn’t make sense!
With this hit of confidence, I was able to hugely minimise the amount of stuff I had. Enough to empty the storage container, but I did keep some things in my mum’s loft as there was so so much. It’s now organised in about 8 large clear containers, with most of it being childhood/ photos/ papers/ dad’s things. Basically, the hugely sentimental things!
It was so helpful to see how to use a decluttering strategy, but I really hope that the new series shows some more of the thought “process,” particularly with dealing with paper! There was one episode that got so close… and then it just cut to “i have less paper”… YES BUT WHICH BIT DID YOU KEEP AND WHY? He had things he’d written and ideas and sentimental notes… did he keep them? I just know he had less haha.
I’ve got rid of so much stuff in the past year but still feel surrounded. Visually it still looks full, but I know that the cupboards were full to bursting and now have accessible and organised boxes (so I don’t just know where to find things, but do go and get them AND PUT THEM BACK) once they’re finished with.
Lots of things I’m still selling, too (I had to donate a lot due to quantity, but I prefer to sell due to all of your reasons, but also because if charity shops can’t sell items, even if they’re in perfect condition, they may end up in landfill). 🌱
My bedroom is no better than landfill if things aren’t being used, but if I can make sure landfill isn’t it’s next (or final) destination (check out terracycle.com for weird and wonderful ways to recycle otherwise non-recyclable things!) then I’m much more likely to be able to let it go.
I love that you always keep it real and cry in every(?) video. I’m really emotional as well but don’t think I would be brave enough to share that online
thank you for doing these videos. thank you for being so vulnerable and making me feel normal with my feelings of loss
Speaking of tea, I was drinking in everything you were saying in this video! I have a similar thought process when it comes to Marie Kondo's style of organizing. Some elements are minimalistic and others aren't so it was super enjoyable to hear your take on it because I resonate with almost everything you said! : D
I finished watching the entire video and I have to say, by far, this is my favorite video of yours yet!! Your attention to detail and clarity of expression just wowed me. Well done, Marissa, well done!
I need Netflix back haha :P LOL that was so funny! I don't like her. I love her XD
You're so much fun! I love your videos
I discovered your channel today and I’ve watched 10+ videos. I have always wanted to be a minimalist and have done many purges but I don’t end up feeling good afterwards. Your videos have been very helpful and inspiring. Thank you for sharing your journey and tools to help create a more sustainable and happy life through minimalism
Marissa I love you ❤️ My mother was a very sentimental person who had great difficulty parting with almost everything! - She taught all three of her daughters that we must look after and hold on tight to just about everything. Here I am with your help trying hard to feel less attached/sentimental about my stuff - Phew! Such a relief. Did I mention that I am 64! Wish I had your help before. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU 🙏
Your videos give me so much power and energy for decluttering! Our bathroom cupboard was all filled up. I finally gained courage to go through it. I even found a bottle dated year 2011! There are many things there still, but those are what I will need in highly potential. Thank you!
👏👏👏
I'll be honest: I have mixed feelings about most vids about minimalism and decluttering. While it's mostly helpful, these youtubers are often so patronizing and complacent. 😬 (And I always suspect that a lot of things are fake.) YOU are completely DIFFERENT! You're funny and self-deprecating, and you have a cheeky, childish side that you let slip through in a more or less subtle manner. You are a real person with real strengths and weaknesses, creative ideas and crazy thoughts, full of warmth and emotion. You not only talk about your victories, but also about the fear. That makes you so damn special. Such a GEM! Thank you!
English is not my mother tongue. I hope I phrased everything appropriately 😅
When I had to put my dog down my family was trying to console me. I asked them if they could help me clear out his stuff (dog bed, leash, etc) because seeing the items in my home made things worse for me. The memories of him are enough ❤️
Oh Melisa, that is so tough - I’m glad that you had your family there to help you through. ❤️
Hi! So good to see you. I was wondering just last night where you have been. I use you as a measure for myself and watching others declutter. I have to say that there are many who want to stake a claim to minimalism but still keep enough for 3 households. It seems we all peel off layers until we can get to Zen. :)
Also I am glad to see that you are still using your feelings to work through all that emotional stuff, not actual stuff but the emotions that still linger. I'm sad when I see your tears but I know you are helping many recognize and validate their own feelings of loss. I know you have helped me because I am finally starting to loosen the grip on my mothers things. These things arent my mother, she will never return so holding the volume I have doesn't replace her. I have a few smalls now.
I enjoy Marie Kondo for the orderliness her system can bring. I need order but I need to get rid of lots of stuff. I look forward to new shows and next week with you.
All around great thoughts and points, Jane and keep on peeling. ✨🧅✨ BTW, I release a video every week, so maybe check and make sure that you are still subscribed and have your notifications turned on if you haven’t been seeing my videos, because I do know that TH-cam had unsubscribed a few people with some kind of glitch…the joy of technology! 😅
Great video.
So true before shots are important because you "get use to your space".. it helps you feel you have achieved with every declutter... especially if you are doing it slowly over time.
Memory boxes are so important.. it also forms a physical boundary. They have 2 big clear boxes each..
1) with 20 hanging files where flat stuff is stored for each year from birth to 18yrs old. This also has photo albums and a wallet with their certificates in it.
2)one clear plastic bin for the "bulky stuff" eg 1st baby clothes etc
They go through these boxes with me 1x yr. If they are no longer sure why they kept things, they are happy to get rid of that item and then they have space for new things that they consider important. .. they know the 2 boxes are all they can have... because I explain, the more you have, the less important the items can be and they will also have to carry these things around with them all their lives.. so the things have to be worth the effort.
There is magic in the japanese lifestyle I would love to learn more ☺️🥰
It’s lovely!
I totally agree with you! Japanese culture, traditions is something wonderful, I love everything about it.
Thank you for sharing. Subscriptions are one of my decluttering successes. I think I enjoyed hearing your thoughts more than the program itself.
Congratulations on your success and thanks for the compliment, Eileen! 🙌
I am stopping this video to make a cup.... AND just want to say I LOVE your channel. I started watching last month. Your video on lessons learned in 40 years of life -- wonderful. I am 35 and gleaning from your perspective.
Happy to have you here, Christie 🙏
Thank you so much for being so open and honest with your feelings. I love your videos. Watching your videos about your journey towards minimalism has been so helpful. I hope that one day I will be as minimalist as you. Lots of love. Amina
I finally found containers that are pretty and work to make my life better. The oxo steel containers have changed my shopping. I can see at a glance what we have and what we need AND it is beautiful for the eye. It makes a huge difference to me if things look “right”. When things are beautiful, it “sparks joy” to maintain the area. I am doing better at finding items that aren’t just beautiful but fill a necessary function in my home. Sometimes a pretty but useful item can make all the difference in motivation to clean/maintain. I went a little Homegoods crazy but I have containers that actually work for me and organize things to where my sense of what feels right is satisfied. I would go insane with mismatched jars. Looking at my habits now, I’m thinking I should look into a diagnosis for ocd. 😂
Marissa, this was a great recap of Marie's show. You brought up so many good tips. Great video!
I got Marie kondos manga, that was so much easier to understand her method, since is was made in a story method.
I'm so grateful to find this channel...I'm in my early twenties and already feel overwhelmed with the stuff I have. Most of the stuff is sentimental to me and I just didn't know what to do. You helped me realize how important decluttering and minimalism is. Thank you soooo much! Now I know what to do with so much stuff of mine. Thank you 🚪🚪
Same here. I only have one room in a shared house… I’ve got rid of so much this past year (multiple cars full) and I still have S.T.U.F.F.!
However, the cupboards are full but not full to bursting. They are functional, and I can access everything in my room for the first time ever (reshuffling needed, but no huge bins stacked with lids on top of each other).
This week I have a whole floor space clear without piles!
The folding system is something that instantly helped me (no shoved-full drawers that won’t close for over a year now! :) ).
The things that are visually “out” are:
a) things that I love to look at (and far less than I used to have - because I’d rather look at a few lovely pieces than loads of nice things!)
b) things I use everyday that doesn’t make sense to go in a drawer (though as my storage spaces have thinned out, I’ve found putting more daily things in drawers is something I naturally do more of)
c) things I haven’t “finished” with, because I’m super forgetful and habits are difficult to break! I put things away if they have a home and keep on top of “hot spots,” though paper is a huge sticking point for me!
d) things to sell! I have an ongoing eBay pile that I add to and grab items from once they sell. It really helps me to let go of those things I’m not sure of as I know someone else wants it. I haven’t regretted a thing I’ve sold on eBay for that reason.
The Marie Kondo series 1 lacked the thinking process I needed to declutter personally beyond clothing.
I have found TH-cam channels like this one to be more valuable.
Marissa’s channel and ‘A Hoarder’s Heart’ have been pillars in guiding me in my own decluttering journey.
Alongside ‘Diane in Denmark’’s Fly Lady playlist. It’s all about baby steps.
If you watch Miss Heart’s channel (from ‘A Hoarder’s Heart’), do watch from the beginning! She has currently had a breakthrough and I can’t keep up in the past couple of weeks. I’m so proud of her healing, but I’m not there yet haha (though I also am not married with kids :p ). The old videos have more of her talking through every single decision, and that’s what’s really helped… because only then can I have hope that decluttering while being wired to hold on so tightly and emotionally to things really is possible, and that it does get easier (which I have experienced myself) to let things go!
I was so excited to see that you had posted a new video this morning!
Woohoo, glad you are here! ✨🙌✨
I have a problem with visualisation for what I want for my future. I don't feel I have a future. I am recovering from recent heart surgery after being ill all lockdown year and the shock of being diagnosed with coronary heart disease in all three main arteries. Apart from surgery I have irregular heart rhythm and coping with the symptoms makes physical things like decluttering hard.
I already had a clutter problem, and two days before the heart surgery I had a mains water burst in my flat from the flat above, with water pouring in through the main light and down the walls. It was a race to try to salvage things from water damage and empty the room where I had some precious things stored, family photos and things that were my grandmother's plus my collection of valuable childrens pop up books...all water damaged. The stress was intense at a time when I am supposed to stay calm!
I came home from surgery to face the contents of the room still spread about in every living area of my flat where it had all been laid to dry it out, the mould and damp conditions (there is already damp and mould in the flat) and not being strong enough to sort through everything has had a bad effect on me and with the uncertainty of my heart condition I can not visualise a future. I feel very depressed and unable to look forward. I have a number of health issues including disability and have always tried to keep strong and not let it beat me..if you give in it doesn't help right? But it IS beating me now and I can see no way out and feel totally overwhelmed.
I have noticed something
Every minimilist has a really nice home with some really beautiful furniture
I love memory boxes. I have one for each of my kids and I write them letters to open later and stash the letters in their boxes.
That’s so sweet! ❤️
Oh, what a fun idea! Excited to watch. 👍
I’m excited for you to watch, too!
Thank you so much for your videos and your help!! I'm just starting on my decluttering journey!! :-)
Margie's episode was the best. Thanks to her--and you--for sharing❤
Marie Kondo is my heroine 🥰 at first I thought her book title was quite pretentious. But... her views were so refreshing and eye opening to me that I can honestly say that it changed my life.
Her book was the final push for me to finally get rid of gifts that didn't give me joy. Now I am a happy minimalist :)
I LOVE that you show your emotions. i find it hard to be in touch with my feelings, so I aspire to be more like you. Thank you for sharing :)
I think this was one of your best videos ever, I loved Mari Kondos show but couldn't articulate it as well as you did. Thank you for doing this! Have a great weekend!
Ahhh the cat! 😂 You kill me. Great video as always, friend.
💕💕💕work on a vision board, what do you want or see your self, see your house 💕💕💕
Loved this - it was her books that got me started on my journey too. love your content lol 🥰🙏🇮🇱✅💖
24:00
Absolutely bawled the first time I saw Margie go through that.
Hahaha, you got me!!
the 1st i did was ask if it fit me, or if it needs mending (be realistic, if you are really busy, not going to happen) let it go. then ask do you feel good when you wear it, is the color flattering on you. if its sentimental, create a sentimental box.
I love Her books! Her books is one reason I stopped collecting stuff!!!! I am down sizing my closet I been sick and in pain for many years and things have pilled up! My hobbies are my down fall. And I am learning to let go of fantasy craft ideas, I just can’t do this anymore and I am so anxious with all my stuff. I love your boys room so sweet and I am going for that peaceful look.
Yes, there’s only so much time to do crafts! 🧶 cheers and good luck.
You have already helped a lot of people
Thank you so much for your kind words, and for watching. 🤗
Really interested to see what you think of the new sparking joy series! I think I'm going to have to rewatch tidying up after this!!
It’s definitely worth a rewatch, Louise. 👍 Can’t wait to share more next week!
Whew! I was nervous when you said you didn't like her! She's so sweet
I remember Margie's episode, I cried and cried with that one. I wanted to give her a hug through the t.v. ❤️
Yes! ❤️
Wow! THANK YOU! You are a gem, beautiful inside and out. This is the first time I’ve seen your videos and it had a huge impact on my motivation to push through my hurdles to declutter, emotional, mental and physical.