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I'm single & live alone. I feel uncomfortable getting rid of photos of people I know (including myself) and framed diplomas, etc. Why is that? How do you do it?
I felt bad letting go of things I bought but never used. My daughter really was my greatest help. She told me how wonderful it would feel to be able to bless someone else. So giving my things away became easier and easier because now I was blessing someone else.
My parents experienced serious deprivation during the Great Depression in the US and lived the rest of their lives paralyzed by a fear that it would happen again (it never did). They had a "make-do, go cheap, keep everything just in case, and don't use your best things on a regular basis, because if something happens to them you won't be able to replace them" mentality which they deeply instilled in me. So, my biggest challenge has been to break free of that mindset. It's taken time and a lot of effort, and I'm not 100% there yet, but I've made great strides and keep moving forward.
Thanks for sharing your story Regina. I can completely imagine that going through something like that will have deep consequences. Actually my grandmother lived through the war and also still has that exact same mentality. Which is very understandble. I think it's awesome you're making good progress and wish you lots of luck :) One thing I do like about that mentality is trying to fix things first, before mindlessly replacing them.
I am in my 4th year of minimalism. I started a new season of decluttering this week. For anyone that wants to start but is afraid, I would just like to point out that less stuff automatically equals less time spent cleaning, less stress, stimuli etc. You will see mental benefits right away. Dont be afraid, its just stuff :)
I notice a trend with my grandparents (mostly my grandfather). So first I've seen people who were raised in poverty go to one of two paths later on: either get frugal and wise over their money or resources, or they burn their money on impulse buys to fill their space or buy foods to fill the fridge/cabinets even though they probably won't eat it all and gets wasted. I've noticed my grandfather is an impulse purchaser when he has a lik extra in his pocket or buy more food than needed and it ends up going bad. Since I'm more minimalist and sustainable with things including food, my grandma is trying to not have us have as much wasted food like before. So it's a start.
Priscilla Jimenez I was there too before. When I was child my parents was in difficulty in financial so we took what we had with us that served at home. The time I first got my job and had my salary I ended up craving buying those things I didn't really need for my body. But as I grow older I start to learn taking what I really need only, not because I want them. I save more space in my life for important things. I think there are always something behind everything. Like story behind what we do today.
I was doing ok, not great, until the pandemic. Just like the Great Depression I now need extra cleaning supplies that can last until the supply comes back... 3 mos maybe.
My hardest thing was decluttering books and craft stuff. I was a hoarder - it was my protection especially living with depression. I have realised that I don't need that stuff to protect me, its been a big job so far and there is still a long way to go - but I see it as a journey not a destination.
Newbie to your channel, just starting my journey. My grandmother, born in 1907, use to make me wear ALL my clothes- and IF something did not fit anymore, or was torn beyond repair, OUT it went - either to charity, Or to the rags bin ..but never to stay in the closet. Also, this made us aware of how many outfits I needed for school. (10 was the magic number - just in case the washer broke, it gave them 2 wks to get it fixed) play clothes were always old school clothes that faded etc ..I think, I am going back to this plan - but will jack up the work outfits to 20.
My biggest challenge is collecting. I’m autistic so I love to look at a bunch of pretty things, & line them all up, & move them around. Even if I never use things just seeing them or knowing I own them brings me joy...but that makes clutter & clutter stresses me out & cause shutdowns & meltdowns. So it’s tricky 🤣🤦♀️ I find using the container method helps. “You can have xyz collection but only what fits in the display case & bookshelf” then if I want to bring a new item in for my collection & there is no room left something has to go. Like you said “1 in 1 out.” Thank you for all the great advice & encouragement
Hardest part for me: decision fatigue. Sometimes I am just not in the mood to make so many decisions in a short time, so I just leave it. So I am taking baby steps and sometimes I think this will take forever. Me and my husband are on this journey together so we try to motivate each other but we also tend so work a little here and a little there...but at least we work ☺️
I completely understand Corinne :) Just keep taking the small steps and you'll see the results you want to see eventually :) And I think it's great you and your husband are doing this together. Good luck and take care!
Work on decluttering by using a timer. When you don’t want to work, set the timer for the smallest amount of time you would be willing to work to declutter. When the timer goes off, go get something to drink. Set the timer for 15 minutes. Relax. Look at how much you’ve accomplished. Enjoy your drink. When the timer goes off after the 15 minutes of relaxing, decide if you can put more time towards decluttering. If you say yes, set the timer for that amount of time. Repeat the 15 minutes of relaxation when the timer goes off. Repeat until at any point after the timer goes off, you can then choose to be done decluttering until another time. Making a daily decluttering appointment with yourself by blocking off time in your diary. The timer also lets others know how much time you have left to finish before you can see to them.
An issue for me with minimalism is the lack of support among friends and family. They don't get that everything they buy is made from a piece of a finite planet. When I talk about not shopping and having no desire for more things they look bored. One said, "I don't agree with the minimalist philosophy." What? Thanks for YOUR support, Vera!
They will come around. Keep doing what you do and doing it in front of them. My dad started to use reusable produce bags and biking to the store. He used to be so cynical and say nothing we do makes a difference. I'm so proud of him but I'm not saying a thing. 😊
This video is still helpful even after I’ve been decluttering for almost two years. This video causes a shift in mindset that renews and refreshes my commitment to minimalism. Thank you, Vera; you are a gift.
I am just getting started; have done a lot of decluttering and donating so far with some still to go. I love to organize, but only recently realized the stress still having all the "stuff" was causing! I would just reorganize everything and not move anything out!! Thanks for all your suggestions, and "permission" to take it slow.
What I find difficult is to stop buying on impulse on the web. I like your tip of a replacement activity : I think I will listen to podcasts instead of surfing without reason and getting stuck by myself when I see something I would like to have. Also the tip of sleeping a few nights on the ideas of buying, great advice !! Thank you very much Vera. I have been following you with pleasure for years, taking some tips now and then, but this summer, I feel ready to change our way of living, for various reasons, and your vidéos are going to be very helpful 😊🌸
After watching a previous video of yours, I cleared half my belongings to a charity shop. I feel so much better without the clutter, thank you Vera :) My advice good people starting is don’t worry about the items value too much. Just because it was expensive doesn’t mean you need or want it.
Hi Vera, thanks for sharing these tips for those of us who are beginning to declutter, or who are struggling. I replaced shopping with my friend for meeting up and going for a picnic during the warmer months. We go to a big lake with woods and lots of wildlife and catch up on news. So relaxing and life affirming, less expensive and only leftover food is brought back into our homes! Enjoy the rest of your weekend! Gemma x
Thank you for the video Vera! I have accumulated things over the years and I completely agree with you, you don’t become a minimalist overnight! I don’t allow anything new in, I ‘shop’ or reuse things I already have. Slowly, over the years I am getting rid of the things that don’t have a purpose, this way is a lot easier than an overnight transformation 😊
Vera, every single video you make is so inspiring! I look forward to watching each weekend! You break minimalism down into clear, focused, thoughtful, gentle steps and are helping me change my life for the better. Thank you for the gift you are and for sharing your wisdom and experiences!
I do agree with your advices. To start minimalism doesn't mean you have to change all you have at home by buying new things to fit your new lifestyle. If your previous lifestyle you've already have many stuff and you still need them in your daily life, just keep them and stop buying new things. I think you just need to utilize all you have while thinking the best method to be a minimalist. Time will make your transformation becoming a minimalist perfect.
Great tips to get started! I used to buy things thinking it would make me happy, but it really just cluttered up my life and created more to worry about. Now I choose the things I bring into my home and life so much more carefully. I dicovered your videos recently and have been inspired to have more ongoing decluttering and mindfulness rather than just "binge and purge" as I notice I've been doing. Keep making these inspiring videos - they're really helpful!
My minimalism journey is extremely slow. Most of my things that women are usually given my their parents as dowry before marriage are still unused after 10 years of marriage. I can't get rid of anything, because there is always the hope that we will have our own home very soon. And replacing all those items would require getting a loan from the bank, which I have promised myself to never do. The interest fees in my country are brutal. So I am always in a limbo phase, always feeling that my journey is incomplete, and somewhat stuck. But I am still gradually working on it. I have cut my own personal items, stopped impulse buying, stopped buying so many toys for the kids. But most importantly, I am trying to re-home every single item instead of just throwing it all away. There are not many places to donate here, so I have to be quite creative. Seeing how much time and effort it requires also stops me from bringing new things into my life
I’m first! Woohoo! I’m so proud to say that I stopped mindless shopping. I was a retail addict when it came to home decor, but I’m no longer as interested in decor. Part of it has to do with just growing older and not seeing the value in all of that stuff, and the other was I got tired of moving it when it was time to move. I’ve noticed that I don’t stay in one place too long, so I now live like I’m itinerant. I have to learn to do that when it comes to food because I tend to buy a lot of interesting foods that I’ve never eaten before, but I end up not liking them once I try them. My goal is to make my food taste better without all of the bad stuff, but it is so hard to eat the same food profile all the time. Nonetheless, I will be minimalizing my cupboards pretty soon because I have way too much stuff in there that I’m just not going to eat. I was experimenting a lot when we were in lockdown, but I think I have arrived at some go-tos that will allow me to not get bored with my food. Wonderful video as always.
Oh yeah, one tip I would share for newbies to minimalism would be to “know thy self” and “trust thy self.” In a world where conformity still reigns, a person has to be fine being different in the way he or she expresses his or her personal ideas, styles, beliefs, etc. when it comes to minimalism. Too many people try to follow to the letter what others on their minimalist journey do. That breeds frustration, so I say stay true to yourself when on your own journey.
I really admire my Mum. She's had to downsize and then downsize again and she said... well, I don't need to keep this, and, this can go I don't really need it. She now lives is a 31 m2 flat. I look around my home and see items that I could sell or give away and I feel inspired by my Mum. So if she could do it, then I can too. If it's not used, why keep it? The only two areas I don't declutter much are books (because of my kids but I have a kindle) and knitting things (because I love it). :) Thanks again for a great video. I think I'll watch it a few more times. It helps to keep on track :)
Biggest challenge for me was, still is and probably will be in the near future, the fact that my husband and son are maximalists. Sometimes it's a real struggle but I keep it sane somehow
Thanks for sharing Frosina :) Yes I can imagine that can be tricky to navigate. Have you seen this video where I share 5 most common minimalism struggles? This one is one of them: th-cam.com/video/SYP7FclAn3M/w-d-xo.html
I agree. Some of my family seem uncomfortable with blank spaces. I find relief in open spaces. One of my family members, in particular, immediately feels the need to fill it. Lol. It’s taken some time but I have decided to put some of my minimalism on hold. I won’t have them living with me forever (no worries, it’s not my husband) so I am kindly, calmly waiting, and loving that I have her with me for this time.
Hi Vera :) I have a lot of things And I used to shop a lot. Recently I realized that buying all those new things I dont need will not make me happier. I also realized I want to shop more ethically and responsibly. I would like to have less but I decided to make it a long long journey and use everything I have until it is unusable. I love your videos, thank you for your good advice and your positive energy! Markéta
The hardest to declutter is my craft things. I have a LOT of it. I used to buy a lot, but now I only buy what I need for the current project. I have bought a lot of fat quarters for patchwork, but no plan for Them. I now Think about what to use Them for.
I am just starting on my journey. It is because my husband and I live in a smaller house with going on 4 kids. Clutter gives me anxiety and I don’t like it. But, my experience is that is easier to give away things then constantly organize it. I don’t want to waste time constantly organizing ! 😊
I'm having a hard time letting go. The decluttering decisions are taking forever. The areas where I found success are keeping me going. I do feel I have a long way to go. I wish I could just throw it all out but I can't. It is a journey.
Josefina Tibrey I feel exactly the same. I have sat in one of our rooms for over 2 weeks looking at items which I have put out onto the floor to “sort out”, I do such a small amount each day. I wish i could just make a quick decision on items.
One of my secret methods for decision fatique is this ... No matter how much we like an item it usually always has some flaw in it. Using a mental pro's and con's view of it truly helps speed up the process. Finding that flaw helps to decide if it's really worth keeping, making it so much easier and quicker to part with. If after looking for the flaws there aren't any then it's pretty much a keeper. Things i thought i would never let go of actually become an irritant once i admit the flaws in it and it doesn't hurt to let it go. Not everything with a flaw is worthless however. It just depends on how much you love the item and are willing to see or deal with the flaw all the time. One example of that is a ceramic rabbit i found that was adorable & perfect in every way except for a missing broken ear. Someone had thrown it out because of that flaw but i didn't see any sense in trashing it simply because of that one thing. I took it home washed it and use it as a doorstop with the broken ear towards the door where it doesn't show. That is the happiest looking rabbit now and it brings me joy each time i see it.
Your advice is always wise and intuitive but when I get stuck or lazy I binge watch hoarders in the background, it's great motivation to not end up like that, gets my backside into gear quick smart 😂
Oh my! I am not alone 😂 I do exactly the same. I watch how other people come into their houses and become grossed. So always try to keep everything as tidy as possible )) which is still quite messy. The only remedy is to actually have less things to care for, dust, clean, etc.
Thank you for this video! Today I'm in a transition phase, because I'm letting a person in my life go. And it's so weird, but almost all of the tips also apply to this situation. It really moved me when you said that it can feel difficult to let go and that's its ok to not know exactly in advance what is the right thing to do or where you are you're going. So thanks again!
You're very welcome and I'm glad the video was helpful for you in this situation! :) I've also been there before and it was challenging for me as well. In the end, it turned out I made the right decision :) Good luck and take care!
It’s a process, for sure. But I’ve found that having less means less choices I have to make, ie.rather than 25 shirts to choose from, I only have 10. I never realized that having less decisions to make would feel so freeing. Thank you, Vera!
Where do I begin ?? I did decluttering back in summer 2018 tried to get rid of many in used items. Re uncluttered this year and I had accumulated things again !! I think shopping at home is the key!!
Thank you for all your tips Vera! I'm not near to "minimalism life" (yet) but your channel definitely helps me think what to declutter and plan what to have next. Thanks for the inspiration!
Great video Vera, I can say that I am still in the beginning stages of being more minimal, I have been living this way for about 1.5 years now. What helped me as someone who used to shop as a hobby is becoming very specific and picky about what I want, and reading more! Also what helped me want to shop less was watching other people’s TH-cam ‘haul’ videos. I got the satisfaction from watching them bring home something new!
Hi Rachael! Thanks so much for sharing :) Yes I can imagine those 'haul' type videos can have two different impacts on people. Sometimes they can help to shop less, others might get tempted by them haha. So I always say do what works for you. Have a great day!
I’ve noticed a sense of guilt with impulsive purchases, getting in the habit of adding them to a wishlist and waiting has really helped me- then I feel so much better when I didn’t act on it carelessly - if something persists in my wishes and I give myself permission, I have a sense of excitement and pride 😊
For me was getting rid of expensive things that were given to me and things I bought. I felt guilty and low about myself. Just felt bad because I wasted money. I finally just had to let go of the items and forgive myself. Through minimalism I I feel more calm and peaceful less less. Thank you Vera for this video. I felt like it gave me energy to going on this journey!🙏🏻❤️
I have trouble letting go of things my two young daughters may want when they are older. So far, I have been keeping them in my space but I feel I need to be honest myself, break away from the item, and store in a separate place so that they can make the decision to keep or let go when it comes time. It’s still a struggle because it feels like I’m postponing a decision but I feel some items are too beautiful or expensive to not pass on. I’m new to minimalism and invested a lot of money on beautiful things in the past. Worried this other “space” will then become a problem if not kept in check. I would love to hear other thoughts and advice on this. :-) Thank you. I love this online community.
Thanks so much for sharing Anne! I don't have kids myself but I can definitely imagine this would be a tricky category. So many memories, and also if items are still useful or were expensive, it could be good to pass them on to your daughters when they're older. On the other hand, I've also spoken with many parents who felt overwhelmed by all the stuff they were saving for their kids. So I do think it's important to find a balance. I don't think it's your responsibility to keep everything for them. So maybe you could come up with a system to help yourself decide which items are worth it to store them somewhere. Also, I don't know how you feel about this, but donation can be an option you can look into. Maybe there's a local charity in your neighborhood to donate items for families who are low income and cannot afford to buy these things for their children. That way the items won't have to be stored a long time before they can be useful again, they can be useful right now for another family. Maybe something to consider :) I would personally let memories and sentimental value be more important in my decisions to keep an item than the price it was. Unless you can sell them to get some money back for them :) Good luck!
Teach your kids one thing in one thing out. This is good even for adults. Nothing worse than to keep things because 'What if one day........' That day seldom comes. I believe in minimalism. Cluttering is like a mental illness. Let things go. Hope this helps.
Set yourself boundaries: we dedicated one bin per child and put in some baby stuff, drawings etc. My Inlaws put away everything for my husband and as we cleared their house recently he was overwhelmed and got rid of almost everything. Always keep in mind that this stuff also can be a burden for your kids. For drawings: you can take pictures or scan them and make a photobook.
@@corinnestauffiger5693 That's a really good idea about the drawings! I'm saving that. I have a lot of my favourite drawings from my childhood and from over the years - scanning them and making a book out of them saves room, because many of them are quite large, (for the simple reason that it's easier to draw something larger, but it's more pleasing to the eye to watch it from a distance or scaled down).
Hi! New to the channel. I found minimalism through finishing my whole30 challenge which helped give me personal policies around food. I quickly fell in love and realized I could apply it to other parts of my life. I live in NYC and we're moving so it was the perfect reason to start minimizing. I gave away a lot of things through the Buy Nothing Project. I will be leaving my local group once I move and join a new one in my new neighborhood.
I would say, if you’re starting out, start with the things which feel easiest. That might feel a bit piecemeal but it is better to see some progress than spend a lot of time thinking shall I or shan’t I. My motivation is that I’ve found clear spaces are more relaxing and create opportunity.
I completely agree with starting at the easiest stuff and working your way up to the more challenging categories :) It helps to create momentum and practice the skill of decluttering
The most useful tip for me is to “ give yourself permission to let go”. I find it hard to let go of some items like expensive clothes that I bought and am not using now. Though I am very happy that I am much better now than I was years ago when I used to hoard a lot of things. Your videos have really helped me a lot, Vera. Thank you. I would also love to watch more self care and happiness videos from you. Have a happy weekend.
Yes decluttering,I don't have much but collect allot of shall things. It's like I have tons of stuff that brings me joy but I know there's too much. I'm ready so baby steps it is.
I may never be able to call myself a minimalist, but I am lesrning to say, "no, I don't need this", and be more intentional with what I buy. For example, as I have mentioned before, I am a nerd, and in several fandoms. There is a lot of merchandise related to that those things, and I see lots of "Look what I bought" posts. For me, I place the most value on books or manga, so if the item in the fandom is something other than that (a figurine, a plushie, etc), I may want it, but most of time, unless it is something I truly feel will bring me happiness (I have a few anime figurines), I really only need the book or manga series itself, or the D&D books, and not the related merchandise.
Same, if I am a fan of something I want to pay the artist for their work, but I'm not so into merch. I know if I went down that hole it could consume me. The original story is the reason why I like it in the first place, so I might as well place my support there.
I buy decorative boxes and start there, hiding some things away instead of making a million micro-decisions. I also limit my decluttering time to half an hour or maybe an hour a day so i don't get overwhelmed with it. I like being able to see aesthetic objects and don't like my environment too devoid of life, so its' a balance. Thanks for your lovely videos! Your style is very enjoyable for a fellow HSP!
One "genre" of items I have difficulty decluttering is sentimental items, especially paper products like graded essays from high school. I am a writer and I like to see how far I've come with my writing. But it's definitely an area I need to more seriously examine and address. 😂
Me too. I finally settled on taking the time to digitize all of my old papers. It took a few weekends over the winter but now it is done. I scanned my documents and put them on Google drive. Now I actually can access them more often and more easily, so that is a pleasant surprise.
Another thought..... when decluttering an area, have your donate and trash containers nearby. If you come across an item that belongs somewhere else, check the clutter for anything else that belongs the same place and take those items to that place right away instead of creating piles of stuff for other rooms. If you do have to stop mid-decluttering, you will only have to put away your trash and donate containers but no piles of stuff.
Great video, thanks Vera! And yes, I can identify with number 4 - feeling guilt over wanting to let things go. This has often prevented me from getting started. Thank you for the inspiration
This is why I love your channel Vera. I don't ever feel the pressure from your videos to do it this way or that way and I can do it the way I like it and still have the stuff that brings me joy and not have to get rid of everything.The hardest challenge for me is that my husband and I live with my mum so we can only declutter our small room lol but that is okay we will get a house start of next year and I can't wait to have it the way we want it. Thank you for another great video 😊
The amount of time and energy it takes to go thru the process on top of working and family duties as a wife and mother is truly exhausting. I can’t wait to be in more of a maintenance phase
I have a hard time throwing out stuff that can't be reused or recycled. I want to find a way to take advantage of every resource. I think this is something I learned from my mom and she learned from her mom - who grew up a war child, and put nothing to waste. She is my zero-waste aspiration, but there also has to be a limit to it. It helps that I nowadays avoid buying unrecyclable packaging and shop a lot less - it gives me some time to figure out ways to reuse the things I do have accumulated.
I can understand that :) I think the thing that helps the most is prevention, like you said. Trying to make sure we're not buying things that we don't need, and then have to discard. That's where the best progress can be made in my opinion :)
Thank you, Vera! I've been following for a while and watching your videos to help guide in my minimalism journey. I completely recently just started the feeling of stuck and what to do now that I'm not done but have gotten rid of a lot of things, and this video had some great tips! Happy New Year and looking forward to more from you this year =)
Figure out a few different exit plans for the things you are decluttering. Like do you need to shred personal paperwork. Is there a local shelter human or animal that could make better use of what you are letting go. Is the time you are putting in to selling something worth what you make? Some thrift stores are only willing to receive a bag or two of items so have a list of places to go to. This is also helpful so when you are running errands you can drop off things at an establishment close to where you are going. Some thrift stores will pick small or large quantities of things from your location. If you know someone who is thinking of buying an item you have been considering letting go of let them try yours out for a trial period with the option to buy. There are many apps to sale items from your phone.
I absolutely admire your discipline!! You clearly eat to live, and are not a "foodie". My idea of a great meal is a small filet mignon, roasted parmesan brussel sprouts, and a lovely glass of wine. Your hard work and discipline have really paid off❤
Love this video! Beautiful images and love the idea of "more from less". The thing I struggle with most is that I absolutely love crystals and they are all over the house!
The hardest thing is getting rid of stationery. Also just feeling like you’ve given away or donated so many things but you still have tons of stuff. I don’t really have any advice except keep going. I started with my clothes because Mari Kondo suggested this was the easiest and that’s right. And now my wardrobe is quite minimal. And I wear and love each item. But the rest of my belongings are much harder to declutter.
Red looks so good on you!! I love your videos Vera!! I learn so much and I am always motivated and relaxed at the end, thank you! I personally don't have a lot of stuff, but my kids have so much toys, Lego and they don't want to let anything go, that's my struggle
Thank you very much for this very interesting, fun, inspiring video. You are easy to listen to, and the feeling I get is ‘Start where you are.’ It’s ok to take our time. Or if we started and stopped it’s okay too. Just keep going. For some of us it is about time to think and feel if this is still important to me, and knowing it’s okay to let it go, whether it is physical or emotional... it’s all part of our life, and where we may now want to go. Thank you for your 10 points for getting started. Looking forward to seeing more from you.
This was such a great encouragement and really took me back to the reasons I got into minimalism in the first place. I love your gentle, practical take on this topic and your suggestions were spot on for new and seasoned minimalists! Love it.
I find I’ve become excessive with skincare products! I will start a new program and before I’m through with the set, I’m already buying a different brand to try! I’m now two behind! I’ve really had to talk to myself about not even listening or reading about what’s great for the skin! And.....the truth is....I’ve not really noticed a huge difference in anything I’ve used! Haha
Yes I used to do that too :) Now I've commited to using up everything before buying something new, and usually it's the same thing I've already been using because I like those products the best
overwhelm, then guilt.... what helps is knowing I can do this in layers or rounds. One room was just toted up and I deal with it one tote at a time...with a specific exit strategy for the donate pile.
For me the most inconvenient thing is selling items. It is time and energy consuming. I do it anyway as I don’t want things in good condition ending up on a landfill, but still... very frustrating. Other than that it is a simple process: think twice before buying, try your best not to bring new objects to your home, and declutter anything you don’t use as soon as you detect it. The sock drawer doesn’t close? Have a look at it, something needs to go. Your TShirt is worn out? Put it in a bag to recycle when you have some more. Your medicine cabinet is untidy? Take everything out, check the dates and get rid of anything expired before putting everything away (and the next time you go to the drugstore/pharmacy take them with you to recucle safely). It is an ongoing process
Great advice, thanks for sharing Carol! I like what you said about thinking twice before purchasing something. Like you, I find selling and getting rid of items in a responsible way to be a hassle. So it makes me really consider things extra carefully before I make a purchase :) I think it we bring something into our life, it's also our responsibility to get rid of it in a mindful and responsible way :)
Do you have any tips for selling things? We wanted to have a garage sale (I am living with my parents currently, and they are thinking of downsizing, and I have stuff I would like to sell), but, being as it is 2020, a garage sale may not be the best idea. I thought of setting up an Ebay seller account, but shipping and stuff sounds like a hassle. What would you suggest?
feylights I use an app called Wallapop. I think it is the equivalent to Craigslist. Sometimes I can ship things, some other times people wants to meet. I honestly prefer shipping, you don’t have to accomodate to someone else’s schedule.
Brilliant video about minimalism Vera. I am a very lazy person (just like my cats) when it comes to decluttering so hopefully video would make me want to take the first step to remove the clutter in our place. It is really an eyesore!! I find myself struggling really where to start coz it is just too many and also the guilt of letting go of things that I only used once and expensive and also the thought of "I might need it in the future" but due to the pandemic, I am now working at home full time so clothes are the first ones to be decluttered, so really hopeful I can get started already!!! thanks again for an awesome video!!
I have decluttered a lot. I have stopped buying things like clothes, make up, bags, shoes etc. However, now I have a new addiction 😭😭😭 I just keep buying things to make my home more cosy and hygge. I sleep over it, take time and yet. I always feel like I need them.
Hi there! :) Maybe it could be helpful to do a journaling exercise called 'my dream home'. Sit in your space, close your eyes, take a few deep breaths. Then grab a notebook and a pen and start writing down what you would like your ideal home to be. Try to let go of any impossiblities, just write down what you want. But instead of writing about the stuff, write about how you would like to feel in your home. Include senses like colors, smells, and also feelings and atmosphere. After you've done this exercise, you might get a clearer insight into what you want from your home, and how your current home is different from this dream home version. Because it's likely that something is missing for you, or not in alignment, which makes you feel like you need more cozy and hygge things. Like something deeper. Good luck :) Also, I recently made a video about how to decorate your home (and make it cozy) without cluttering it up with decor items: th-cam.com/video/eJg83sOmAPE/w-d-xo.html
Thought process I have been having for a few months now: I have a kitchen machine for chopping etc, but I also have a hand mixer and a hand blender. I rarely use the kitchen machine, because I prefer the smaller equipment and just using knives for chopping. But I also like making drinks. Although I could use the hand blender for that als a tall mixing bowl. Getting rid of the kitchen machine would empty an entire drawer. If I do want to prepare bigger portions I could just use the smaller equipent I use now. But I'm still worried I might regret decluttering the machine. I could store it in the attic for now, clear the drawer and see if I will miss the machine the rest of the year. Hmm.. I do like thinking about the stuff I own, why I own it and if I want to continue to own it. It makes owning stuff a lot more fun :D
Yes these are great things to think about! And you could do it like you said, storing it a year and see if you miss it. If not, you can safely declutter it and pass it on to someone else :)
This video was extremely helpful! Thank you very much for all the practical tips. Just subscribed!!! Looking forward to watching all your content new and old :)
Lovely thank you. I find it very hard to get rid of sentimental things like heirlooms and photos and also my book and music books collection. Because of this I accept that I'll probably never be a true minimalist.
Expanding on the tip to shop from your own home first... I am removing duplicates from the space dedicated to the item. This way I enjoy the space and have a place in the home to “shop” when I need something. This works great for my maybe piles too because sometimes I enjoy the space without the item more than I want the item. Just need to regularly evaluate the things in that space too because it can add up if not careful. :-)
@@raapyna8544 In my case, it's a shelf in my laundry room where I put all my extras. I'm new to minimalism and have a lot of consumable duplicates that are still good (i.e. facial products I received as gifts or purchased myself). Instead of overwhelming my personal space with these extras, I set up my bathroom with my daily necessities only. When I run out, instead of going to the store I "shop" in my laundry room. I also love handbags and haven't had the heart to let them go yet. I put those away so that when I get tired of my current handbag, I switch it out and it feels new again. When I kept them in my closet, I saw the unused bags everyday and didn't get the same thrill when I switched out my bags. My goal is to downsize this area of my life but will be one of the last areas I tackle.
The biggest challenge for me was to convince my parents, that I don't need all those clothes. Because usually they buy me some stuff, that I don't really like according to colors/other reasons. So now I have to store all that in the box, because my parents don't want to let those items go (even though I don't wear them). So... yes, that's hard :)
I loved your video! You always have practical, inspiring and new ways to approach minimalism. Your tips and ideas are so doable and easy to implement. Thank you Vera :)
I'm consistently decluttering items. Some items I would like to replace with something more efficient and simpler. Maybe multipurpose. But I am not financially dependent so I can't afford to lose things or replace things. My food and shelter is determined by my family. Before I would probably be embarrassed by this but I am finding people have gone through similar situations to save money or for convenience purposes or even to stay close to loved ones. This has made me let go of the insecurities associated.
I start decluttering and moving into a minamalist lifestlye, in November last year, as bushfires were very bad, and it was hard to go outside and breathe in the smoke haze. The difficulty I find is its almost a craving sometimes to shop?, from decluttering about 40%of my stuff I realise now what i actually have amd like to use, sometimes there are gaps. I have also been reducing my consumption of packaging and started to make my own candles, soaps, cleaning products.
Am currently trying to do a 30 day low spend challenge, i started with no spend and struggled. Do you have any tips? Thankyou again fornyour advice and guidance
Very good and inspiring video. I found motivation here even though I have had a minimalist mindset and living a minimalist life for a while now. I love your youtube videos. Thanks for sharing! :D
Hello!!! Watching ur videos from past week, thy r so simple nd intersting as well an deep nd meaningful. My hardest part to let go were my my belongings from my clothes, accessories, my shoes(my fav) to clothes of my babies when thy were newborn till now. I bought their clothes with so much love nd care being a parent was difficult for me evn after thy out grew them, basically sentimental belongings 🙏
I end up with little piles of just suff around my room that I tell myself I need to "go through". Its very overwhelming and not welcoming to come home to every day. When I go through it I end up holding on to most of it, just now its in a new place - which turns into another pile.. The hardest part is I do tend to associate a feeling or special idea with the item. A lot of my items are "what if" or "just in cass" items. Or those items I got to save for a project I keep telling myself I'll get around too. The truth is I'll never finish any of those projects when I keep adding new ideas or feelings to the pile. The more you have, the more responsibility comes with it.
Ohhh and I loved what you said about the average home having about 300,000 items in our homes... I sure feel like I do as I do love my space, and know I need and want to make more space. I may start a check list of how many things I get rid of and what I may have left in the end... 300,000 wow ;) :0 :)
I always like to find a new home for things but it takes ages to re-home (not necessary sell but if possible not bin) all the bits and bobs I have decluttered. On the other hand, that process really makes you think twice when you purchase stuff!
Biggest challenge for me was learning to be patient with myself and with others. A few years ago, I jumped at converting to a more economical/minimal household however I had a fiance that wanted everything to feel cosy which is perfect but he was reluctant to declutter things as he felt it would make our home feel too bare. I had to learn to go at a slower, lighter pace over these years but it's so worth it! The best tip I can give anyone living with someone who shares this 'minimal = not cosy' belief or one similar is not to get upset with them, listen to them and ask them to try it out temporarily for a period of time by storing the objects away to see how it feels. If not, that's fine but if you're living in that space too and if it really doesn't hold much purpose or value to either of you, then why let it stay there? My question would then be, what can we replace it with which will benefit us both? In many instances, when we hid things (which we eventually decluttered), it actually created more cosiness as it gave us negative space to focus on things we really value. P.s. Never get frustrated with others when they want something to go back, just try to work on other areas of the home and revisit it when more time has passed. So far, the only thing he hasn't let me declutter of is the coffee machine 😅 Take it easy and never force someone to get rid of something they truly value or regularly use 🥰
When I started decluttering, l had so much stuff but I felt attached to it so I decluttered three items daily over the course of a year and a half or so and that worked best for me. Now I would never look back.
I'm definitely still doing #1 lol. Plus I'm encouraging my mom and sister to be more minimal so hygiene/beauty items they know they won't use, they've given them to me. So I'm still getting through those. Plus clothes they give me, I try not to hoard them myself and donate them. So I'm still getting there lol
I'm only learning about Minimalism, I found your channel yesterday. Today I decluttered my wardorbe. My biggest issue right now is lack of patience, I just wan't to get rid of stuff quickly.
Watch next: 🍵🌱 Simplify your home | No clutter decor tips: th-cam.com/video/eJg83sOmAPE/w-d-xo.html
What other video topics do you want to see coming up? Let me know below 🤗👇
About trying to start minimalism while living with a hoarder 😬
Simple Happy Zen Quick vegan meals or meditation would be wonderful.
What's the secret of your teeth
I'm single & live alone. I feel uncomfortable getting rid of photos of people I know (including myself) and framed diplomas, etc. Why is that? How do you do it?
What are your personal policies? Could you make a video about that please? Or on how to set up your own rules...
I felt bad letting go of things I bought but never used. My daughter really was my greatest help. She told me how wonderful it would feel to be able to bless someone else. So giving my things away became easier and easier because now I was blessing someone else.
Sounds like a very valuable insight :) Thanks for sharing Nedra!
My parents experienced serious deprivation during the Great Depression in the US and lived the rest of their lives paralyzed by a fear that it would happen again (it never did). They had a "make-do, go cheap, keep everything just in case, and don't use your best things on a regular basis, because if something happens to them you won't be able to replace them" mentality which they deeply instilled in me. So, my biggest challenge has been to break free of that mindset. It's taken time and a lot of effort, and I'm not 100% there yet, but I've made great strides and keep moving forward.
Thanks for sharing your story Regina. I can completely imagine that going through something like that will have deep consequences. Actually my grandmother lived through the war and also still has that exact same mentality. Which is very understandble. I think it's awesome you're making good progress and wish you lots of luck :) One thing I do like about that mentality is trying to fix things first, before mindlessly replacing them.
I am in my 4th year of minimalism. I started a new season of decluttering this week. For anyone that wants to start but is afraid, I would just like to point out that less stuff automatically equals less time spent cleaning, less stress, stimuli etc. You will see mental benefits right away. Dont be afraid, its just stuff :)
I notice a trend with my grandparents (mostly my grandfather). So first I've seen people who were raised in poverty go to one of two paths later on: either get frugal and wise over their money or resources, or they burn their money on impulse buys to fill their space or buy foods to fill the fridge/cabinets even though they probably won't eat it all and gets wasted. I've noticed my grandfather is an impulse purchaser when he has a lik extra in his pocket or buy more food than needed and it ends up going bad. Since I'm more minimalist and sustainable with things including food, my grandma is trying to not have us have as much wasted food like before. So it's a start.
Priscilla Jimenez I was there too before. When I was child my parents was in difficulty in financial so we took what we had with us that served at home. The time I first got my job and had my salary I ended up craving buying those things I didn't really need for my body. But as I grow older I start to learn taking what I really need only, not because I want them. I save more space in my life for important things. I think there are always something behind everything. Like story behind what we do today.
I was doing ok, not great, until the pandemic. Just like the Great Depression I now need extra cleaning supplies that can last until the supply comes back... 3 mos maybe.
My hardest thing was decluttering books and craft stuff. I was a hoarder - it was my protection especially living with depression. I have realised that I don't need that stuff to protect me, its been a big job so far and there is still a long way to go - but I see it as a journey not a destination.
Thanks so much for sharing your experiences Debra, I think it's awesome you're taking these steps! Good luck with everything 🤗
Despitemy decluttering, those are ky Hercules heel lol and classroom stuff since I use to work as a teaching assistant.
Newbie to your channel, just starting my journey. My grandmother, born in 1907, use to make me wear ALL my clothes- and IF something did not fit anymore, or was torn beyond repair, OUT it went - either to charity, Or to the rags bin ..but never to stay in the closet. Also, this made us aware of how many outfits I needed for school. (10 was the magic number - just in case the washer broke, it gave them 2 wks to get it fixed) play clothes were always old school clothes that faded etc ..I think, I am going back to this plan - but will jack up the work outfits to 20.
My biggest challenge is collecting. I’m autistic so I love to look at a bunch of pretty things, & line them all up, & move them around. Even if I never use things just seeing them or knowing I own them brings me joy...but that makes clutter & clutter stresses me out & cause shutdowns & meltdowns. So it’s tricky 🤣🤦♀️ I find using the container method helps. “You can have xyz collection but only what fits in the display case & bookshelf” then if I want to bring a new item in for my collection & there is no room left something has to go. Like you said “1 in 1 out.” Thank you for all the great advice & encouragement
Hardest part for me: decision fatigue. Sometimes I am just not in the mood to make so many decisions in a short time, so I just leave it. So I am taking baby steps and sometimes I think this will take forever. Me and my husband are on this journey together so we try to motivate each other but we also tend so work a little here and a little there...but at least we work ☺️
I completely understand Corinne :) Just keep taking the small steps and you'll see the results you want to see eventually :) And I think it's great you and your husband are doing this together. Good luck and take care!
Work on decluttering by using a timer. When you don’t want to work, set the timer for the smallest amount of time you would be willing to work to declutter. When the timer goes off, go get something to drink. Set the timer for 15 minutes. Relax. Look at how much you’ve accomplished. Enjoy your drink. When the timer goes off after the 15 minutes of relaxing, decide if you can put more time towards decluttering. If you say yes, set the timer for that amount of time. Repeat the 15 minutes of relaxation when the timer goes off. Repeat until at any point after the timer goes off, you can then choose to be done decluttering until another time. Making a daily decluttering appointment with yourself by blocking off time in your diary. The timer also lets others know how much time you have left to finish before you can see to them.
Awesome tip! Thanks for sharing 🤗🌼
And write down what you already did! It's such a reward to see all done after a week/month/year of this.
An issue for me with minimalism is the lack of support among friends and family. They don't get that everything they buy is made from a piece of a finite planet. When I talk about not shopping and having no desire for more things they look bored. One said, "I don't agree with the minimalist philosophy." What? Thanks for YOUR support, Vera!
Thanks for sharing your experiences Cheryl. I know that lack of support or understanding can be tricky sometimes.
You will find your tribe, just keep being true to what you want to achieve.
They will come around. Keep doing what you do and doing it in front of them. My dad started to use reusable produce bags and biking to the store. He used to be so cynical and say nothing we do makes a difference. I'm so proud of him but I'm not saying a thing. 😊
This video is still helpful even after I’ve been decluttering for almost two years. This video causes a shift in mindset that renews and refreshes my commitment to minimalism. Thank you, Vera; you are a gift.
I'm so happy to hear that Lara! :) Thank you, have a happy Monday!
I am just getting started; have done a lot of decluttering and donating so far with some still to go. I love to organize, but only recently realized the stress still having all the "stuff" was causing! I would just reorganize everything and not move anything out!! Thanks for all your suggestions, and "permission" to take it slow.
Hi Linda. Yes I recognize that. It was only until I actually started to let go of things that I was able to find an organization that works. :)
Same with me!
What I find difficult is to stop buying on impulse on the web. I like your tip of a replacement activity : I think I will listen to podcasts instead of surfing without reason and getting stuck by myself when I see something I would like to have. Also the tip of sleeping a few nights on the ideas of buying, great advice !! Thank you very much Vera. I have been following you with pleasure for years, taking some tips now and then, but this summer, I feel ready to change our way of living, for various reasons, and your vidéos are going to be very helpful 😊🌸
The way you speak about minimalism is quite refreshing. Thank you for sharing with us a non-judgmental and practical version of minimalism. :)
Thank you so much Sanghamitra :) Have a great day
After watching a previous video of yours, I cleared half my belongings to a charity shop. I feel so much better without the clutter, thank you Vera :) My advice good people starting is don’t worry about the items value too much. Just because it was expensive doesn’t mean you need or want it.
Wow amazing!!! Way to go Lynby 🤗💕
Udom
Ok9 UK u will not get 8AM 999j9888888 mi and you onh9
Hi Vera, thanks for sharing these tips for those of us who are beginning to declutter, or who are struggling. I replaced shopping with my friend for meeting up and going for a picnic during the warmer months. We go to a big lake with woods and lots of wildlife and catch up on news. So relaxing and life affirming, less expensive and only leftover food is brought back into our homes! Enjoy the rest of your weekend! Gemma x
That sounds amazing 💕
Thank you for the video Vera! I have accumulated things over the years and I completely agree with you, you don’t become a minimalist overnight! I don’t allow anything new in, I ‘shop’ or reuse things I already have. Slowly, over the years I am getting rid of the things that don’t have a purpose, this way is a lot easier than an overnight transformation 😊
Awesome, thanks Raul! :) Enjoy your weekend
@@SimpleHappyZen Vera means bringer of truth.
Vera, every single video you make is so inspiring! I look forward to watching each weekend! You break minimalism down into clear, focused, thoughtful, gentle steps and are helping me change my life for the better. Thank you for the gift you are and for sharing your wisdom and experiences!
Wow thanks so much Jaime, that means a lot :)
I do agree with your advices. To start minimalism doesn't mean you have to change all you have at home by buying new things to fit your new lifestyle. If your previous lifestyle you've already have many stuff and you still need them in your daily life, just keep them and stop buying new things. I think you just need to utilize all you have while thinking the best method to be a minimalist. Time will make your transformation becoming a minimalist perfect.
Well said :) Thank you Fana Alfia
Great tips to get started! I used to buy things thinking it would make me happy, but it really just cluttered up my life and created more to worry about. Now I choose the things I bring into my home and life so much more carefully. I dicovered your videos recently and have been inspired to have more ongoing decluttering and mindfulness rather than just "binge and purge" as I notice I've been doing. Keep making these inspiring videos - they're really helpful!
Happy to hear it! 🤗
My minimalism journey is extremely slow. Most of my things that women are usually given my their parents as dowry before marriage are still unused after 10 years of marriage. I can't get rid of anything, because there is always the hope that we will have our own home very soon. And replacing all those items would require getting a loan from the bank, which I have promised myself to never do. The interest fees in my country are brutal. So I am always in a limbo phase, always feeling that my journey is incomplete, and somewhat stuck. But I am still gradually working on it. I have cut my own personal items, stopped impulse buying, stopped buying so many toys for the kids. But most importantly, I am trying to re-home every single item instead of just throwing it all away. There are not many places to donate here, so I have to be quite creative. Seeing how much time and effort it requires also stops me from bringing new things into my life
I’m first! Woohoo! I’m so proud to say that I stopped mindless shopping. I was a retail addict when it came to home decor, but I’m no longer as interested in decor. Part of it has to do with just growing older and not seeing the value in all of that stuff, and the other was I got tired of moving it when it was time to move. I’ve noticed that I don’t stay in one place too long, so I now live like I’m itinerant. I have to learn to do that when it comes to food because I tend to buy a lot of interesting foods that I’ve never eaten before, but I end up not liking them once I try them. My goal is to make my food taste better without all of the bad stuff, but it is so hard to eat the same food profile all the time. Nonetheless, I will be minimalizing my cupboards pretty soon because I have way too much stuff in there that I’m just not going to eat. I was experimenting a lot when we were in lockdown, but I think I have arrived at some go-tos that will allow me to not get bored with my food. Wonderful video as always.
YAY! Thanks Teresa 😄
Oh yeah, one tip I would share for newbies to minimalism would be to “know thy self” and “trust thy self.” In a world where conformity still reigns, a person has to be fine being different in the way he or she expresses his or her personal ideas, styles, beliefs, etc. when it comes to minimalism. Too many people try to follow to the letter what others on their minimalist journey do. That breeds frustration, so I say stay true to yourself when on your own journey.
I really admire my Mum. She's had to downsize and then downsize again and she said... well, I don't need to keep this, and, this can go I don't really need it. She now lives is a 31 m2 flat. I look around my home and see items that I could sell or give away and I feel inspired by my Mum. So if she could do it, then I can too. If it's not used, why keep it? The only two areas I don't declutter much are books (because of my kids but I have a kindle) and knitting things (because I love it). :)
Thanks again for a great video. I think I'll watch it a few more times. It helps to keep on track :)
Biggest challenge for me was, still is and probably will be in the near future, the fact that my husband and son are maximalists. Sometimes it's a real struggle but I keep it sane somehow
Thanks for sharing Frosina :) Yes I can imagine that can be tricky to navigate. Have you seen this video where I share 5 most common minimalism struggles? This one is one of them: th-cam.com/video/SYP7FclAn3M/w-d-xo.html
@@SimpleHappyZen I have seen them all 😀
I agree. Some of my family seem uncomfortable with blank spaces. I find relief in open spaces. One of my family members, in particular, immediately feels the need to fill it. Lol. It’s taken some time but I have decided to put some of my minimalism on hold. I won’t have them living with me forever (no worries, it’s not my husband) so I am kindly, calmly waiting, and loving that I have her with me for this time.
I have the same problem Frosina. My husband wants to hang on to everything. I just deal with it the best way I can. 💜
Hi Vera :) I have a lot of things And I used to shop a lot. Recently I realized that buying all those new things I dont need will not make me happier. I also realized I want to shop more ethically and responsibly. I would like to have less but I decided to make it a long long journey and use everything I have until it is unusable.
I love your videos, thank you for your good advice and your positive energy!
Markéta
The hardest to declutter is my craft things. I have a LOT of it. I used to buy a lot, but now I only buy what I need for the current project. I have bought a lot of fat quarters for patchwork, but no plan for Them. I now Think about what to use Them for.
I am just starting on my journey. It is because my husband and I live in a smaller house with going on 4 kids. Clutter gives me anxiety and I don’t like it. But, my experience is that is easier to give away things then constantly organize it. I don’t want to waste time constantly organizing ! 😊
I'm having a hard time letting go. The decluttering decisions are taking forever. The areas where I found success are keeping me going. I do feel I have a long way to go. I wish I could just throw it all out but I can't. It is a journey.
You can do it, just keep taking small steps and you'll get to where you want to be
Josefina Tibrey I feel exactly the same. I have sat in one of our rooms for over 2 weeks looking at items which I have put out onto the floor to “sort out”, I do such a small amount each day. I wish i could just make a quick decision on items.
One of my secret methods for decision fatique is this ...
No matter how much we like an item it usually always has some flaw in it.
Using a mental pro's and con's view of it truly helps speed up the process.
Finding that flaw helps to decide if it's really worth keeping, making it so much easier and quicker to part with.
If after looking for the flaws there aren't any then it's pretty much a keeper.
Things i thought i would never let go of actually become an irritant once i admit the flaws in it and it doesn't hurt to let it go.
Not everything with a flaw is worthless however. It just depends on how much you love the item and are willing to see or deal with the flaw all the time.
One example of that is a ceramic rabbit i found that was adorable & perfect in every way except for a missing broken ear. Someone had thrown it out because of that flaw but i didn't see any sense in trashing it simply because of that one thing. I took it home washed it and use it as a doorstop with the broken ear towards the door where it doesn't show. That is the happiest looking rabbit now and it brings me joy each time i see it.
You are so encouraging and gracious! the world needs more people who show such kindness..I am thankful I found you
Aw thank you, that's so sweet :) Have a wonderful week!
Your advice is always wise and intuitive but when I get stuck or lazy I binge watch hoarders in the background, it's great motivation to not end up like that, gets my backside into gear quick smart 😂
Thats a really good idea i struggle with the gap that sometimes filled
Oh my! I am not alone 😂 I do exactly the same. I watch how other people come into their houses and become grossed. So always try to keep everything as tidy as possible )) which is still quite messy. The only remedy is to actually have less things to care for, dust, clean, etc.
I do exactly the same! I always think to myself I don't want to end up consumed by stuff :)
Thank you for this video! Today I'm in a transition phase, because I'm letting a person in my life go. And it's so weird, but almost all of the tips also apply to this situation. It really moved me when you said that it can feel difficult to let go and that's its ok to not know exactly in advance what is the right thing to do or where you are you're going. So thanks again!
You're very welcome and I'm glad the video was helpful for you in this situation! :) I've also been there before and it was challenging for me as well. In the end, it turned out I made the right decision :) Good luck and take care!
@@SimpleHappyZen Thank you so much for the comforting words and understanding. I really appreciate it! Have a great day :)
It’s a process, for sure. But I’ve found that having less means less choices I have to make, ie.rather than 25 shirts to choose from, I only have 10. I never realized that having less decisions to make would feel so freeing. Thank you, Vera!
It's a lovely feeling isn't it :D
The other day as I was decluttering my home, I had your inspirational videos playing on my smartphone. Listening to you really keeps me motivated!
Aw that's amazing, thanks Sharon! Good luck with decluttering
Where do I begin ?? I did decluttering back in summer 2018 tried to get rid of many in used items. Re uncluttered this year and I had accumulated things again !! I think shopping at home is the key!!
Thank you for all your tips Vera! I'm not near to "minimalism life" (yet) but your channel definitely helps me think what to declutter and plan what to have next. Thanks for the inspiration!
Yay ,so happy to hear it! :) Good luck with everything!
@@SimpleHappyZen Thank you!
Great video Vera, I can say that I am still in the beginning stages of being more minimal, I have been living this way for about 1.5 years now. What helped me as someone who used to shop as a hobby is becoming very specific and picky about what I want, and reading more! Also what helped me want to shop less was watching other people’s TH-cam ‘haul’ videos. I got the satisfaction from watching them bring home something new!
Hi Rachael! Thanks so much for sharing :) Yes I can imagine those 'haul' type videos can have two different impacts on people. Sometimes they can help to shop less, others might get tempted by them haha. So I always say do what works for you. Have a great day!
I’ve noticed a sense of guilt with impulsive purchases, getting in the habit of adding them to a wishlist and waiting has really helped me- then I feel so much better when I didn’t act on it carelessly - if something persists in my wishes and I give myself permission, I have a sense of excitement and pride 😊
I've viewed so many videos about minimalism..how to organize and declutter and this video is the best one .Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Wow thanks so much!! :)
For me was getting rid of expensive things that were given to me and things I bought. I felt guilty and low about myself. Just felt bad because I wasted money. I finally just had to let go of the items and forgive myself. Through minimalism I I feel more calm and peaceful less less. Thank you Vera for this video. I felt like it gave me energy to going on this journey!🙏🏻❤️
I can really relate to that :) Thanks for sharing Lucy. Take care and happy Monday!
I have trouble letting go of things my two young daughters may want when they are older. So far, I have been keeping them in my space but I feel I need to be honest myself, break away from the item, and store in a separate place so that they can make the decision to keep or let go when it comes time. It’s still a struggle because it feels like I’m postponing a decision but I feel some items are too beautiful or expensive to not pass on. I’m new to minimalism and invested a lot of money on beautiful things in the past. Worried this other “space” will then become a problem if not kept in check.
I would love to hear other thoughts and advice on this. :-) Thank you. I love this online community.
Thanks so much for sharing Anne! I don't have kids myself but I can definitely imagine this would be a tricky category. So many memories, and also if items are still useful or were expensive, it could be good to pass them on to your daughters when they're older. On the other hand, I've also spoken with many parents who felt overwhelmed by all the stuff they were saving for their kids. So I do think it's important to find a balance. I don't think it's your responsibility to keep everything for them. So maybe you could come up with a system to help yourself decide which items are worth it to store them somewhere. Also, I don't know how you feel about this, but donation can be an option you can look into. Maybe there's a local charity in your neighborhood to donate items for families who are low income and cannot afford to buy these things for their children. That way the items won't have to be stored a long time before they can be useful again, they can be useful right now for another family. Maybe something to consider :) I would personally let memories and sentimental value be more important in my decisions to keep an item than the price it was. Unless you can sell them to get some money back for them :) Good luck!
Teach your kids one thing in one
thing out. This is good even for
adults. Nothing worse than to
keep things because 'What if
one day........' That day seldom
comes. I believe in minimalism.
Cluttering is like a mental illness.
Let things go. Hope this helps.
Set yourself boundaries: we dedicated one bin per child and put in some baby stuff, drawings etc. My Inlaws put away everything for my husband and as we cleared their house recently he was overwhelmed and got rid of almost everything. Always keep in mind that this stuff also can be a burden for your kids.
For drawings: you can take pictures or scan them and make a photobook.
@@corinnestauffiger5693 Less is more.
In all areas of life.
@@corinnestauffiger5693 That's a really good idea about the drawings! I'm saving that. I have a lot of my favourite drawings from my childhood and from over the years - scanning them and making a book out of them saves room, because many of them are quite large, (for the simple reason that it's easier to draw something larger, but it's more pleasing to the eye to watch it from a distance or scaled down).
Thank you Vera ! You actually demonstrate the benefits of minimalism through the clarity and inspiration of your videos. 😃
Aw thank you so much! :) Take care Brigitte
Hi! New to the channel. I found minimalism through finishing my whole30 challenge which helped give me personal policies around food. I quickly fell in love and realized I could apply it to other parts of my life. I live in NYC and we're moving so it was the perfect reason to start minimizing. I gave away a lot of things through the Buy Nothing Project. I will be leaving my local group once I move and join a new one in my new neighborhood.
Yes years and years and everything brings me joy
I would say, if you’re starting out, start with the things which feel easiest. That might feel a bit piecemeal but it is better to see some progress than spend a lot of time thinking shall I or shan’t I.
My motivation is that I’ve found clear spaces are more relaxing and create opportunity.
I completely agree with starting at the easiest stuff and working your way up to the more challenging categories :) It helps to create momentum and practice the skill of decluttering
The most useful tip for me is to “ give yourself permission to let go”. I find it hard to let go of some items like expensive clothes that I bought and am not using now. Though I am very happy that I am much better now than I was years ago when I used to hoard a lot of things. Your videos have really helped me a lot, Vera. Thank you. I would also love to watch more self care and happiness videos from you. Have a happy weekend.
I like minimalist games, such as 5 a day for 30 days. It’s great way to start to exercise that minimalist muscle! 💪
Yes they can be very helpful :) Thanks Lynmarie :)
The sentimental items always challenge me most ! Sometimes I take a picture of it and keep it in a photo album and let the item go !
That's a great strategy! :) I do that too :)
Yes decluttering,I don't have much but collect allot of shall things. It's like I have tons of stuff that brings me joy but I know there's too much. I'm ready so baby steps it is.
I may never be able to call myself a minimalist, but I am lesrning to say, "no, I don't need this", and be more intentional with what I buy. For example, as I have mentioned before, I am a nerd, and in several fandoms. There is a lot of merchandise related to that those things, and I see lots of "Look what I bought" posts. For me, I place the most value on books or manga, so if the item in the fandom is something other than that (a figurine, a plushie, etc), I may want it, but most of time, unless it is something I truly feel will bring me happiness (I have a few anime figurines), I really only need the book or manga series itself, or the D&D books, and not the related merchandise.
Same, if I am a fan of something I want to pay the artist for their work, but I'm not so into merch. I know if I went down that hole it could consume me. The original story is the reason why I like it in the first place, so I might as well place my support there.
@@raapyna8544 exactly. I will make exceptions (I do like having T-shirts of my fandoms), but I am more particular about the merch I buy.
I buy decorative boxes and start there, hiding some things away instead of making a million micro-decisions. I also limit my decluttering time to half an hour or maybe an hour a day so i don't get overwhelmed with it. I like being able to see aesthetic objects and don't like my environment too devoid of life, so its' a balance. Thanks for your lovely videos! Your style is very enjoyable for a fellow HSP!
Thanks so much!! :)
One "genre" of items I have difficulty decluttering is sentimental items, especially paper products like graded essays from high school. I am a writer and I like to see how far I've come with my writing. But it's definitely an area I need to more seriously examine and address. 😂
Me too. I finally settled on taking the time to digitize all of my old papers. It took a few weekends over the winter but now it is done. I scanned my documents and put them on Google drive. Now I actually can access them more often and more easily, so that is a pleasant surprise.
Another thought..... when decluttering an area, have your donate and trash containers nearby. If you come across an item that belongs somewhere else, check the clutter for anything else that belongs the same place and take those items to that place right away instead of creating piles of stuff for other rooms. If you do have to stop mid-decluttering, you will only have to put away your trash and donate containers but no piles of stuff.
Good tip!! Thanks :)
Inspired and enlightening. Thank You. Always a pleasure
Great video, thanks Vera! And yes, I can identify with number 4 - feeling guilt over wanting to let things go. This has often prevented me from getting started. Thank you for the inspiration
You're very welcome Isabel, glad you enjoyed the video! :) Take care and good luck
This is why I love your channel Vera. I don't ever feel the pressure from your videos to do it this way or that way and I can do it the way I like it and still have the stuff that brings me joy and not have to get rid of everything.The hardest challenge for me is that my husband and I live with my mum so we can only declutter our small room lol but that is okay we will get a house start of next year and I can't wait to have it the way we want it. Thank you for another great video 😊
So happy to hear that, thanks so much :) And ooooh so exciting for you and your husband! I'm sure it'll be a great experience for you
The amount of time and energy it takes to go thru the process on top of working and family duties as a wife and mother is truly exhausting. I can’t wait to be in more of a maintenance phase
I have a hard time throwing out stuff that can't be reused or recycled. I want to find a way to take advantage of every resource. I think this is something I learned from my mom and she learned from her mom - who grew up a war child, and put nothing to waste. She is my zero-waste aspiration, but there also has to be a limit to it. It helps that I nowadays avoid buying unrecyclable packaging and shop a lot less - it gives me some time to figure out ways to reuse the things I do have accumulated.
I can understand that :) I think the thing that helps the most is prevention, like you said. Trying to make sure we're not buying things that we don't need, and then have to discard. That's where the best progress can be made in my opinion :)
These are all such great tips! Minimalism can seem so overwhelming when you're beginning. Thank you for sharing these.
Glad to hear you enjoyed the tips :) Have a great day!
I have regrets about getting rid of some sentimental items. But I know that someone else can enjoy them. That helps.
Thank you, Vera! I've been following for a while and watching your videos to help guide in my minimalism journey. I completely recently just started the feeling of stuck and what to do now that I'm not done but have gotten rid of a lot of things, and this video had some great tips! Happy New Year and looking forward to more from you this year =)
So happy to hear this video was helpful for you! Happy New Year!
Figure out a few different exit plans for the things you are decluttering. Like do you need to shred personal paperwork. Is there a local shelter human or animal that could make better use of what you are letting go. Is the time you are putting in to selling something worth what you make? Some thrift stores are only willing to receive a bag or two of items so have a list of places to go to. This is also helpful so when you are running errands you can drop off things at an establishment close to where you are going. Some thrift stores will pick small or large quantities of things from your location. If you know someone who is thinking of buying an item you have been considering letting go of let them try yours out for a trial period with the option to buy. There are many apps to sale items from your phone.
I absolutely admire your discipline!! You clearly eat to live, and are not a "foodie". My idea of a great meal is a small filet mignon, roasted parmesan brussel sprouts, and a lovely glass of wine. Your hard work and discipline have really paid off❤
Empty nesting decluttering and organization. Not my items or memories, but is valuable to my college students or just starting out adult children
Love this video! Beautiful images and love the idea of "more from less". The thing I struggle with most is that I absolutely love crystals and they are all over the house!
Thank you Anne :)
Same here Ann, what i did was group them together on a nice trays or plates. It looks so much more peacefully and less cluttered.
The hardest thing is getting rid of stationery. Also just feeling like you’ve given away or donated so many things but you still have tons of stuff. I don’t really have any advice except keep going. I started with my clothes because Mari Kondo suggested this was the easiest and that’s right. And now my wardrobe is quite minimal. And I wear and love each item. But the rest of my belongings are much harder to declutter.
Red looks so good on you!!
I love your videos Vera!! I learn so much and I am always motivated and relaxed at the end, thank you! I personally don't have a lot of stuff, but my kids have so much toys, Lego and they don't want to let anything go, that's my struggle
Thanks so much Cristina, that's so sweet :) Good luck!
Thank you very much for this very interesting, fun, inspiring video. You are easy to listen to, and the feeling I get is ‘Start where you are.’ It’s ok to take our time. Or if we started and stopped it’s okay too. Just keep going. For some of us it is about time to think and feel if this is still important to me, and knowing it’s okay to let it go, whether it is physical or emotional... it’s all part of our life, and where we may now want to go. Thank you for your 10 points for getting started. Looking forward to seeing more from you.
Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts :) I agree with what you said :)
I really needed this. I find it really difficult to stop buying used books although I have shelves full of them. It's like an addiction!
This was such a great encouragement and really took me back to the reasons I got into minimalism in the first place. I love your gentle, practical take on this topic and your suggestions were spot on for new and seasoned minimalists! Love it.
Aw thanks so much for your kind comment! :)
It's the video that I needed. Thanks! I love your videos
I'm happy to hear it Danny, good luck on your minimalism journey!
I find I’ve become excessive with skincare products! I will start a new program and before I’m through with the set, I’m already buying a different brand to try! I’m now two behind! I’ve really had to talk to myself about not even listening or reading about what’s great for the skin! And.....the truth is....I’ve not really noticed a huge difference in anything I’ve used! Haha
Yes I used to do that too :) Now I've commited to using up everything before buying something new, and usually it's the same thing I've already been using because I like those products the best
overwhelm, then guilt.... what helps is knowing I can do this in layers or rounds. One room was just toted up and I deal with it one tote at a time...with a specific exit strategy for the donate pile.
Yes small steps is the way to go :) Good luck and take care!
I always maintain my weight.. so I recycle most of my outfits.. so no shopping ..more saving.. enjoy a little and simple things.. thanks ❤️
Great, thank you Caroline! :)
For me the most inconvenient thing is selling items. It is time and energy consuming. I do it anyway as I don’t want things in good condition ending up on a landfill, but still... very frustrating. Other than that it is a simple process: think twice before buying, try your best not to bring new objects to your home, and declutter anything you don’t use as soon as you detect it. The sock drawer doesn’t close? Have a look at it, something needs to go. Your TShirt is worn out? Put it in a bag to recycle when you have some more. Your medicine cabinet is untidy? Take everything out, check the dates and get rid of anything expired before putting everything away (and the next time you go to the drugstore/pharmacy take them with you to recucle safely). It is an ongoing process
Great advice, thanks for sharing Carol! I like what you said about thinking twice before purchasing something. Like you, I find selling and getting rid of items in a responsible way to be a hassle. So it makes me really consider things extra carefully before I make a purchase :) I think it we bring something into our life, it's also our responsibility to get rid of it in a mindful and responsible way :)
Do you have any tips for selling things? We wanted to have a garage sale (I am living with my parents currently, and they are thinking of downsizing, and I have stuff I would like to sell), but, being as it is 2020, a garage sale may not be the best idea. I thought of setting up an Ebay seller account, but shipping and stuff sounds like a hassle. What would you suggest?
feylights I use an app called Wallapop. I think it is the equivalent to Craigslist. Sometimes I can ship things, some other times people wants to meet. I honestly prefer shipping, you don’t have to accomodate to someone else’s schedule.
@@carolc2574 thanks!
I like the tip to find a new activity. Thanks for these.
Thank you! :)
Brilliant video about minimalism Vera. I am a very lazy person (just like my cats) when it comes to decluttering so hopefully video would make me want to take the first step to remove the clutter in our place. It is really an eyesore!! I find myself struggling really where to start coz it is just too many and also the guilt of letting go of things that I only used once and expensive and also the thought of "I might need it in the future" but due to the pandemic, I am now working at home full time so clothes are the first ones to be decluttered, so really hopeful I can get started already!!! thanks again for an awesome video!!
Good luck, you can do it! :)
I have decluttered a lot. I have stopped buying things like clothes, make up, bags, shoes etc. However, now I have a new addiction 😭😭😭 I just keep buying things to make my home more cosy and hygge. I sleep over it, take time and yet. I always feel like I need them.
Hi there! :) Maybe it could be helpful to do a journaling exercise called 'my dream home'. Sit in your space, close your eyes, take a few deep breaths. Then grab a notebook and a pen and start writing down what you would like your ideal home to be. Try to let go of any impossiblities, just write down what you want. But instead of writing about the stuff, write about how you would like to feel in your home. Include senses like colors, smells, and also feelings and atmosphere. After you've done this exercise, you might get a clearer insight into what you want from your home, and how your current home is different from this dream home version. Because it's likely that something is missing for you, or not in alignment, which makes you feel like you need more cozy and hygge things. Like something deeper. Good luck :) Also, I recently made a video about how to decorate your home (and make it cozy) without cluttering it up with decor items: th-cam.com/video/eJg83sOmAPE/w-d-xo.html
Thought process I have been having for a few months now: I have a kitchen machine for chopping etc, but I also have a hand mixer and a hand blender. I rarely use the kitchen machine, because I prefer the smaller equipment and just using knives for chopping. But I also like making drinks. Although I could use the hand blender for that als a tall mixing bowl. Getting rid of the kitchen machine would empty an entire drawer. If I do want to prepare bigger portions I could just use the smaller equipent I use now. But I'm still worried I might regret decluttering the machine. I could store it in the attic for now, clear the drawer and see if I will miss the machine the rest of the year. Hmm.. I do like thinking about the stuff I own, why I own it and if I want to continue to own it. It makes owning stuff a lot more fun :D
Yes these are great things to think about! And you could do it like you said, storing it a year and see if you miss it. If not, you can safely declutter it and pass it on to someone else :)
This video was extremely helpful! Thank you very much for all the practical tips. Just subscribed!!! Looking forward to watching all your content new and old :)
Thank you so much and welcome to the channel! :)
Lovely thank you. I find it very hard to get rid of sentimental things like heirlooms and photos and also my book and music books collection. Because of this I accept that I'll probably never be a true minimalist.
Thank you im already doing a few things thanks for the ectra tips and help
I really like the term Personal Policies! I have always said rules and guidelines, but I am now going to say Personal Policies:) Thank you
Glad to hear it :) Thanks Sandi, have a great day!
Expanding on the tip to shop from your own home first... I am removing duplicates from the space dedicated to the item. This way I enjoy the space and have a place in the home to “shop” when I need something. This works great for my maybe piles too because sometimes I enjoy the space without the item more than I want the item. Just need to regularly evaluate the things in that space too because it can add up if not careful. :-)
I love it! Thanks for sharing Anne 🤗🌻
So, you have a designated "shop" in your home? :) Did I understand correctly?
@@raapyna8544 In my case, it's a shelf in my laundry room where I put all my extras. I'm new to minimalism and have a lot of consumable duplicates that are still good (i.e. facial products I received as gifts or purchased myself). Instead of overwhelming my personal space with these extras, I set up my bathroom with my daily necessities only. When I run out, instead of going to the store I "shop" in my laundry room. I also love handbags and haven't had the heart to let them go yet. I put those away so that when I get tired of my current handbag, I switch it out and it feels new again. When I kept them in my closet, I saw the unused bags everyday and didn't get the same thrill when I switched out my bags. My goal is to downsize this area of my life but will be one of the last areas I tackle.
The biggest challenge for me was to convince my parents, that I don't need all those clothes. Because usually they buy me some stuff, that I don't really like according to colors/other reasons. So now I have to store all that in the box, because my parents don't want to let those items go (even though I don't wear them). So... yes, that's hard :)
I can imagine, thank you for sharing. If you have personal advice for anyone who has a similar experience, please share that here :)
I loved your video! You always have practical, inspiring and new ways to approach minimalism. Your tips and ideas are so doable and easy to implement. Thank you Vera :)
I'm so happy to hear that 💕🌷 Thanks Gena, I appreciate it
I'm consistently decluttering items. Some items I would like to replace with something more efficient and simpler. Maybe multipurpose. But I am not financially dependent so I can't afford to lose things or replace things. My food and shelter is determined by my family. Before I would probably be embarrassed by this but I am finding people have gone through similar situations to save money or for convenience purposes or even to stay close to loved ones. This has made me let go of the insecurities associated.
I start decluttering and moving into a minamalist lifestlye, in November last year, as bushfires were very bad, and it was hard to go outside and breathe in the smoke haze. The difficulty I find is its almost a craving sometimes to shop?, from decluttering about 40%of my stuff I realise now what i actually have amd like to use, sometimes there are gaps.
I have also been reducing my consumption of packaging and started to make my own candles, soaps, cleaning products.
Am currently trying to do a 30 day low spend challenge, i started with no spend and struggled. Do you have any tips?
Thankyou again fornyour advice and guidance
Very good and inspiring video. I found motivation here even though I have had a minimalist mindset and living a minimalist life for a while now. I love your youtube videos. Thanks for sharing! :D
So happy to hear it, thank you! :)
Hello!!! Watching ur videos from past week, thy r so simple nd intersting as well an deep nd meaningful.
My hardest part to let go were my my belongings from my clothes, accessories, my shoes(my fav) to clothes of my babies when thy were newborn till now. I bought their clothes with so much love nd care being a parent was difficult for me evn after thy out grew them, basically sentimental belongings 🙏
I end up with little piles of just suff around my room that I tell myself I need to "go through". Its very overwhelming and not welcoming to come home to every day. When I go through it I end up holding on to most of it, just now its in a new place - which turns into another pile.. The hardest part is I do tend to associate a feeling or special idea with the item. A lot of my items are "what if" or "just in cass" items. Or those items I got to save for a project I keep telling myself I'll get around too. The truth is I'll never finish any of those projects when I keep adding new ideas or feelings to the pile. The more you have, the more responsibility comes with it.
Ohhh and I loved what you said about the average home having about 300,000 items in our homes... I sure feel like I do as I do love my space, and know I need and want to make more space. I may start a check list of how many things I get rid of and what I may have left in the end... 300,000 wow ;) :0 :)
Hahaha it's a lot right :D Good luck!
I always like to find a new home for things but it takes ages to re-home (not necessary sell but if possible not bin) all the bits and bobs I have decluttered. On the other hand, that process really makes you think twice when you purchase stuff!
Biggest challenge for me was learning to be patient with myself and with others. A few years ago, I jumped at converting to a more economical/minimal household however I had a fiance that wanted everything to feel cosy which is perfect but he was reluctant to declutter things as he felt it would make our home feel too bare. I had to learn to go at a slower, lighter pace over these years but it's so worth it! The best tip I can give anyone living with someone who shares this 'minimal = not cosy' belief or one similar is not to get upset with them, listen to them and ask them to try it out temporarily for a period of time by storing the objects away to see how it feels. If not, that's fine but if you're living in that space too and if it really doesn't hold much purpose or value to either of you, then why let it stay there? My question would then be, what can we replace it with which will benefit us both? In many instances, when we hid things (which we eventually decluttered), it actually created more cosiness as it gave us negative space to focus on things we really value. P.s. Never get frustrated with others when they want something to go back, just try to work on other areas of the home and revisit it when more time has passed. So far, the only thing he hasn't let me declutter of is the coffee machine 😅 Take it easy and never force someone to get rid of something they truly value or regularly use 🥰
0
Getting my husband to buy in. He puts great value in the memory of an item.
That is fine, if he's not a big shopper, and he doesn't place that sentimentality on everything.
Number 4 is still such a barrier for me!
You can do it, small steps :)
I'm on the 30 day challenge! I'll feel so much better when I've decluttered 500 items. I'm going into boxes that I haven't looked in for years.
That's awesome!! Good luck with the challenge
@@SimpleHappyZen Thank you 😁
When I started decluttering, l had so much stuff but I felt attached to it so I decluttered three items daily over the course of a year and a half or so and that worked best for me. Now I would never look back.
That's amazing! Love this :) Great accomplishment Michael
Hi Vera! Thank you for tips and sharing community. Like simple:)
You're very welcome Joan, have a wonderful day!
I'm definitely still doing #1 lol. Plus I'm encouraging my mom and sister to be more minimal so hygiene/beauty items they know they won't use, they've given them to me. So I'm still getting through those. Plus clothes they give me, I try not to hoard them myself and donate them. So I'm still getting there lol
Good luck Priscilla! :)
Thank you Vera for your inspiration.❤
You're very welcome, happy Monday, have a lovely week!
@@SimpleHappyZen You also have a lovely week🙂
I'm only learning about Minimalism, I found your channel yesterday. Today I decluttered my wardorbe. My biggest issue right now is lack of patience, I just wan't to get rid of stuff quickly.
You can do it Sofia, take it one step at a time :) And welcome to the channel! Feel free to check out my Decluttering playlist
@@SimpleHappyZen I'm watching your every singel video ❤ I'm at the moment at the Healthy Habits-playlist ❤
@@sofiaandersson3206 Wow that's amazing, thank you 💕