I read quite a story from a woman who had been going through a tough time and kept a journal to help her sort things out. Having survived that tough time, whenever she moved the journals came with her. She poured so much of her heart into them she couldn’t leave them behind. Then when organizing with the idea that you only keep what you love, she realized that she had been dragging the worst time of her life with her from home to home. Once she had that epiphany it was easy to toss the journals and leave a difficult chapter in her life behind. I’ve always remembered this story when deciding what to keep or toss.
Totally relate to this. I had clocked that & then also that I didn't want my daughter to read them when I die. She honestly said she couldn't promise not to ( love her honesty) first thing I did was trashed them. x
It's hard keeping up with the Wendell's of the world and therefore we sometimes forget we all have our gifts and talents. You never know Cas, Wendell may be in awe of you in some way. Your energy, your empathy, your artistic talents. I know I am.
PROGRESS UPDATE! I started a one month declutter on October 1st, then found your "bootcamp" (see my comment there). We have gone through room by room since then, and finally finished the last areas four days ago, including the carport and screened-in room. A loaded 20 foot trailer went to the dump plus we had a bonfire (🤠 yee haw). I now have boxes filled for donations to load in my car (several trips worth), and frankly, much of the house now looks like a bomb went off. I still am seeing areas that i skipped over, but the month isn't over yet. Thanks so much for your encouragement. You're my drill sergeant!
Oh that "identity clutter" hit home big time! My husband and I retired from teaching after 20 and 34 years, respectively. Teaching is more than a career, it is an identity, a mission, a life's work. And that leads to a lot of STUFF that we put our own money into and now have no use for. Lots of it stayed at our schools but no one wanted most of it. Thanks for reminding me that retirement is a chance to redefine who I am!
TOXIC CLUTTER 1. Clothes that are too small 2. Old hobby supplies 3. Gifts from loved ones that you don't like 4. Family heirlooms 5. Expensive beauty products 6. Workout equipment you're not using 7. Food you don't like 8. Health food 9. Electronics 10. Books you aren't going to read 11. Unfinished projects 12. Kids Artwork 13. Unreturned items 14. Expensive things we don't use 15. Items from your past self
I keep my college stuff in a bin, so I can go back and visit my past. I am not my college self anymore, but sometimes I miss her. I like to keep her around in a way, so I keep a memory bin.
My hubby got me an Advent Calendar last year from my favorite beauty supplier.... skincare items. About a third of the creams were not good for my skin but it was a Christmas Gift from my Husband, you know the triple threat. lol I had to chuck them, but then I had a great idea. Instead of throwing them away, I put them in my nightstand to put on my feet at night. The heavy creams that were terrible on my face worked great under some socks to soften my feet. Win/win. Other gifts just discretely find their way out of the house.
Cas, when you were talking about old textbooks and looked into the camera and said "I'm talking to you!", it was like you were looking right at me and seeing my bookcase that is full of 40+ year old textbooks. I don't know why I keep thinking I'll refer to them "someday". Its been over 40 years, and with very few exceptions, I haven't opened any of them even once! Thanks for the push to finally let them all go! Hugs, Shelly
Hi Shelly - I have just given away my University textbooks that are over 30 years old. Felt great. You are not alone. Best wishes from another Shelley :)
I have a Scouting friend, he's an attorney & he gets up at 4:30 every morning. Aside from being an avide runner, he also rucks! The thought of rucking is exhausting. After I make my morning coffee I need to sit just to recover from that!☕😂
Great video, Cas: 1. Clothes that are too small 2. old hobbies 3. Gifts from loved ones 4. Family heirlooms 5. Expensive beauty products 6. Workout equipment 7. Food you don’t like 8. Health food that you don’t consume 9. Electronic clutter 10. Books you’ll never read 11. Unfinished projects 12. Kids artwork 13. Unreturned items 14. Expensive you don’t use 15. Items from your past self (college text books, etc.)
Canning jars and other supplies have sat in our basement for two years. I just posted in an swap group: ISO of canning buddy and I'm giving them away to ladies who are active Canners in exchange for canned food. I will have the food storage I long for without the guilt and reduce my clutter by half.
I like the shout out at the end to Wendell, in a word where we are quick to tell someone about their faults it's great to celebrate excellence,in all things do the best you can, mediocrity blows.
Toxic clothing 😢. For me it was my work scrubs. I loved my job and hope to go back to it one day but a couple weeks ago I realized I needed to get my scrubs out of my closet. I cried when I finally made the decision because it really meant for now I was not going to be using them. I have packed them away in a tote for another chapter in my life at a later date. Doing this really helped me accept and start to enjoy where I am in my life right now. ❤
You could donate to a medical school for newbies, helping someone start their career in the industry you love while you take a pause...then treat yourself to new ones when you're ready to return.
My sister in law rocks at everything. She always seems to have her ducks in a row. I can’t even get mine in one pond. It’s disgusting, but she’s great. We’re thankful to have her.
Wow! This has been SO helpful!!! I have so many everyday items in my home that remind me of my abusive past (narcissistic parents), and I've been struggling with extreme guilt at even the thought of getting rid of them. I no longer have a relationship with my parents or siblings, so these "toxic clutter" items are the only things I do have to remember them by--making it extremely hard to let go. But they're cluttering up my mental and emotional capacity even if they are "used daily" in my home. I can buy new kitchen utensils and serving dishes that don't have that emotional ball-and-chain that my current ones do. This installment of the Declutter Bootcamp feels incredibly freeing!!
I recently got rid of a huge China set that my mom gave me 4 years ago. The set moved with us across the US twice and remained boxed the entire time. I didn't have the guts to tell my mom I got rid of it but I feel much better now that leaned to give myself permission to get rid of things
Thank you for this bootcamp! I am such a bee!!! I have a hard time getting rid of things especially if I may “need” them in the future. I was decluttering/organizing my kitchen cabinets and pantry this weekend (the whole weekend). I was really struggling with “perfection” during the organization and wanted to give up so I said self…what would Cass say…You can do hard things, 5 minutes makes a difference, progress over perfection, it’s ok for it to be good enough…I finally finished the project and thought Cass would be proud 🥰♥️🥰 Thank you for being my inspiration and motivation
Wow, it's like you have been all through my home!!! My mom is an amazing house keeper. Everything has a place. Her laundry smells heavenly. She's 87 and gets more work done in her house in 15 minute spurts each day, than I do in a week. I love her but she can be quite intimidating. She isn't allowed to visit my home. We've been redoing our house, it's a wreck and I'm paralyzed with guilt.
I really appreciate your support for getting rid of clothes that are too small. I’m going through my closets right now and realize that I have waaaaayyyy more clothes than I have room for (a bit of an early hoarding situation was happening, piles on the floors and all that). It’s wonderful to have encouragement to get rid of the small sizes to make room for things I can actually wear. Last week, I actually got shamed by someone here on TH-cam when I mentioned my fluctuating weight, they said I just needed more self-discipline to fit back into those clothes 😢 Well, if I ever lose the weight, I don’t want to wear clothes that are 10-15 years old anyway, so out they go! Thank you!
My son and I cleaned the downstairs family room ,which really needed to be done ,but I kept putting it off! I feel so much better! Starting is the hardest part!!! Say goodbye to the clutter!
I just love your honesty especially with Wendell and people like him that kind of inadvertently make us feel bad about ourselves. Truly, we probably need to be doing more to improve our own lives if we are bothered by the Wendells of the world but I get it…it’s hard to move past someone who seems perfect on the outside! Just remember that we ALL have demons and some people are very good at hiding those from others. Be the best self you can be and love who you are!!!🥰
Cass, I cannot thank you enough ♥️ I was battling severe depression, and finally found a medication that actually worked. The pro, it stopped my depression, the con, the weight gain. I had kept my clothes that no longer fit, and it made me feel bad about myself. I really needed encouragement to get rid of the clothes. I did it right after watching your video. Thank you, thank you! ♥️
I love this video. I can tell when something is toxic or negative by paying attention to how my face muscles react. My lip will curl up or I will wrinkle my nose. Our bodies can tell us what our minds try and over shadow. Also, I have to give credit to a wonderful therapist who once told me “don’t should on yourself”. When you say “I should be …” you are shaming and guilting yourself. That is toxic thinking. Yes we all have to “adult” and do things we would rather not do. But the reality is “adulting” is a means to what we truly need or desire. Examples of adulting vs shoulding. Adulting: I want clean clothes to wear therefore I will do laundry. In this scenario it is an hour before bed. “I should do the dishes now because I want to read and unwind before bed.” This I should is a logistical thought process that quickly turns into…”I shall do the dishes now so that I will have enough time to read and relax.” Example of toxic “should”: “Instead of doing my scheduled reading I should take that time to clean the bathroom. It’s really dirty. It won’t take long and I can always read afterwards.” This is shaming. The bathroom may need cleaning but you also need and deserve the time to unwind before bed. If you choose to clean the bathroom: a) you may continue down the one more thing path until you collapse into bed. b) you clean it and then read but you are now going to bed later than you scheduled. So you may be tired the next day If you don’t clean the bathroom a) you may wish to quickly make a note or schedule a future time to clean the bathroom so it is off your mind. b) you may read, relax, sleep and schedule the bathroom when you wake up and are refreshed. So the next time you think “I should be …”, ask yourself is this the means to obtain something I truly desire? Or am I just bullying yourself?
I love what you're saying but here's the SECRET to success! Maintenance. Don't let things pile up, clean as you go and by all means... Purge!!! A place for everything is also key element to this success.
I'm saving this one to hopefully watch yearly. There was so much good advice and truths in there. I'm guilty of keeping clothes that doesn't fit because I like the styles and they "almost fit".😃
@@MsEgwene You are right, but knowing me I'll forget about them. I might as well donate them so they could be used. It will still be a struggle though! 😃 Thank you for your comment.
For me those that almost fit give me motivation to shed those 5 pounds or so. So I really spend the time and only save the most loved and needed items. So if there is like 10 items I try to give myself permission to keep 3/5 of those items, donate the rest AND I hang them on hangers and put next to a mirror (back of door) or my treadmill or just out of the way yet in a place I would be embarrassed if a guest saw it, so that I get on that treadmill to focus on those last 5/10 pounds….
I recently moved into a new modern house with lots of storage. It’s very clutter free and organised..and yet……..every video I watch points to at least three things I still have! The video that mentioned the piles of unmatched socks made me laugh out loud, so did the reminder about the small clothes. I was feeling snug about not having a hobby cupboard until I remembered I still have my flute from school. I am 64 years old! It’s a reminder that decluttering is a lifetime chore, not a one off!
The yogurts in the fridge are going now!!! This video was motivating. Recently got rid of some of my mom's "stuff". My living room is MY living room now. I have gotten better at this with age. I am doing some Swedish Death Cleaning. I know our kids won't want it all.
This may be creating digital clutter, but we take pictures of all of the artwork and then throw it out. I keep a few choice pieces and all the rest goes. The kids are alright with it because they know there's still a picture of it!
That's my m.o. with kids' artwork too. I keep a few choice pieces but as long as they know I've taken a picture of the rest they give no complaint when I chuck them. Someday I might get a photo book made from the photos but at least for now the artwork paper clutter isn't taking over my house.
Hi Cass - Great video. I think the one thing I've learned from you, and others, is that just because I bought X, and spent a lot of money on it, if it doesn't add to my life, it must go. And since now I feel great about gifting all these things to others, there is no guilt, or remorse. My friend had a garage sale to help farell cats last week and I donated every cookbook in my house and all my old (expensive) purses. It felt fabulous. Now I have the mindset, to get rid of stuff from living in the same house for 30 years (it's going to take awhile). As for Windell - when you are a young woman, you are always very critical of yourself (we all have been there). But when you get old (68) you finally realize that just being who you are is the best. You stop comparing yourself, realize half your friends are ill, dead or crazy. You wake up each day, Grateful you woke up and just live the best you can. And you finally realize you like yourself, even if no one else does. Life is crazy, but in the end we just like ourselves, don't care what others think, and keep on marching. Continued success. Love PegEgg
I needed to hear this. I’m a retired music teacher and I got rid of most of my teaching supplies, but I kept some things “just in case.” Every time I go into that room (that also contains crafting and sewing supplies) I want to turn around and go out. The things in there make me feel bad about myself. It’s time to get serious about letting go. Thanks for your videos. I love them.
You are so right, that stuff has weighed heavy on my mind throughout the years. I'm retired and am finally doing a lot of the fun crafts, sewing and knitting projects I wasn't able to do while working. But the years I've kept these craft and hobby items and looked at them like 'I'll finish it someday' gave me lots of grief. Even now as I find time to finish some of those items, I have to look at how many of these things am I able to do in my lifetime. I need to remember there are more inspiring and new things to make or create in the future. I used this method of decluttering my huge collection of DVD's and CD's as well. I watch a lot of DVD's but there are so many new movies coming out - way more than anyone can keep up with. So I was able to declutter 70% of DVD'd that I owned. That bookshelf has a lot of space left so I was able to use it for books as well. When it came to my CD's, I finally set up my table top radio/CD/cassette player. At first I thought I'd declutter the stereo system, but once I set it up and gave it a home of honor (I love music) it became a loved focal point in my living room. I've never been so happy to have music in my life again in this way. I was able to declutter about 70% of my CD's down to 4 shoe boxes full. But then I got a storage system to remove the plastic cover and gave the slimline CD's a special storage box about the size of 1 shoebox (container method) and now I love all the music I have and get to listen to again. It makes me happy instead of upset and guilt ridden. There are a few more areas like this that I need to declutter, but this was such a win! Thanks for your Videos and caring so much about others.
I’m with you on the crafts. But I have been slowly using them since retirement. But like you I couldn’t use it all in if I had a lifetime to do it. Wish my arthritis didn’t interfere so much😢
Oh my regarding the crafts, I have way too much that I will never use but I keep it because I never know what it might be useful for. Some old projects I keep however not many, those go I a good sam box or I give them to some one else. Since there is some stuff I won't use I keep some of it for my little grand to make stuff with. Some of the old sewing projects mixed with newer fabric gives it a whole new life and makes it fun again. We do not have to finish the way we thought we would 20 years ago. Have fun!
I think the crafts and projects area will be my doom. I want to do so much but I'm so tired. I have been letting my kids use a lot of my supplies lately. It's hard because I always have a baby or toddler so I can't do certain projects due to kids getting into it. Wishing I had a separate craft room, but a 4 bedroom house with 6 kids and one on the way doesn't permit a lot of free space. Why is this so hard!!
Do your crafts and give them to your kids. Isn’t that what they did when they were in school? I wish I had something my mom made. I would never declutter that!! If your kids are into music like you (mine are) make them “mix tapes” on CD from yours and theirs HS days. Big hit! 💖🦩
I'm working on Decluttering right up to Christmas and maybe even all of January because of the amount I have to go thru and because I have a number of chronic health conditions that mean i need to take many breaks or I end up really sick, tired and in unbearable pain. I adapt everything I can into tasks I do for 5, 10 or 15 minutes, depending on how much pain I have. I am determined that by February (the month of love) I will only have in my house what I need or use, what I love and what helps me to love and look after myself. Hope this helps, Blessings, Dot
This decluttering stuff has taken over my life. I actually had a few dreams that I needed to get back to decluttering. It takes time, especially the paper stuff. I'm hoping to give myself and organized and clean home for Christmas. I'm not the type of person who can throw everything into a big black trash bag at once.
Cas has worked with Dawn from the Minimal Mom. One of Dawn's videos just popped up about finding the time to declutter. She suggests substituting the word energy for time. By decluttering slowly, we are detaching ourselves emotionally from our stuff. I'm finding that and finding that I'm developing new habits to keep my space clean and organized.
I spent today working on the first task -clothes. I packed 3 boxes for donations going through all my summer and fall/winter clothes. Felt so good to finally let go and realize I’m gifting these things that I really will never wear again. They served me well and it was time to let go
Gotta love Wendell. In spite of our insecurities, we need more Wendells in the world! It’s so encouraging to see such a fine individual in the midst of the sea of horrible people we witness daily. Go Wendell! Have a million clones!
Wendell sounds inspiring! Thank you for making these videos to help others. Your kindness, strength and motivation is changing lives. For real. Comparison is the thief of joy. It isn't a competition. Also, Wendell didn't get to taste donuts that day. So, there's that!! 😂 😜 🥰
My house (San Francisco Bay Area) flooded last Sunday. It made me realize how much junk I had just sitting around. I have a bad back pain problem, and I resented every box I had to lift and find a higher place for. Now that the most urgent cleanup is done, I can barely move from the pain. This stuff must go! It’s not the first time my low-lying location flooded and won’t be the last, next time it will be easier if I purge all this junk.
Thanks for this boot camp series, Cas! I've cleared out a bunch this month. I even started giving away my stash of fabric. That's a biggie. And 4 more bins of books, ready to go bye-bye. Yay!
When I was younger I had plenty of Wendells. But now, older and wiser and more accepting of my own flaws, I realize all those Wendells have just as many warts as I do.
....I have quite a bit of supplies for being creative, however, the reality that I need space to do these satisfying hobbies is the only reason I don't do them as much as I did previously. I am not actually getting rid of my nice machines, supplies, because it does nourish my Soul and Spirit when I have the opportunity to work on that craft.
I got rid of a piece of toxic clutter this week! A few years ago I bought a portrait at a thrift store. Frankly I thought the portrait was pretty terrifying but it was in a beautiful high-end custom frame so I bought it for the frame. I put my cell phone on the shelf while I loaded the piece into my shopping cart. After checking out I realized I didn't have my phone and went back for it and it was gone. Someone took it. I looked up the artist who created the portrait and ended up emailing him and then having a phone conversation. I still hated the image but now I felt guilty thinking about tossing the portrait because the artist was a lovely person. I felt bad for only wanting the frame. And then the frame did not fit the picture I had in mind and I never came across anything else to fit in it. So for all this time this has been a piece of supremely toxic clutter. It caused me shame and guilt for so long but no more, it's gone from my home!
The way I let go of my kid's art is to take photos and store them digitally. They take up no space and yet I get to keep the memories. 👍. Sending lots of love 💖 from sunny 🌞 Arizona 🌵😷
While I agree with so many of the ideas here and am glad for them as inspiration, I don't completely agree with the general logic that, if something is making you feel bad because you should be using it, it's toxic and you should throw it out. "Toxic" imo has become a word much too easily used to give excuse to cut ourselves off from anything or anyone that we don't like or that makes us feel any way we don't like. But legitimate responsibilities might make us feel bad. Valuable insights or advice from people who we know truly love us can nevertheless make us feel bad. But emotions don't dictate what is true and what is false. There are times when our *thinking* is what's really toxic, and what needs sorted or thrown away before any tangible thing. For instance, maybe I have workout gear because I truly NEED to be taking better care of my body. If it's making me feel bad because I'm not committing to it, should I get rid of it, or should I spend some serious time thinking through my priorities to decide what is most important, and act accordingly? Maybe that DOES mean my free weights need to go. But maybe it means I need to change something - different equipment, different schedule, different attitude, and the list goes on.
Understood, however clutter is toxic! Humans attach so much value to stuff. Most of it is just CRAP that needs to be thrown out. Living with excess doesn't make us successful necessarily but can weigh you down. Some ppl are closet hoarders and won't admit they have a problem because they lack organizational skills. If you show a picture to a toddler of two environment, 1. Clean, tidy, minimal, shattered with some greenery. 2. Over furnished, dirty, messy, a total disaster. The child will never pick #2 even if their favorite toy is pictured. The pure spirit in them knows better.
@@DivineBlessing4 I get it you dont need the word "toxic" to understand living with excess, clutter, crap, trash, visual and mental clutter is NOT HEALTHY! How many ppl feel peaceful in an environment that is a disaster?
There's a difference in fantasy self and best self. I was feeling much like OP during this video but I realized she's talking about the fantasy self. Get ride of what you want (fantasy self) to focus on the things you need (best self).
As a fitness trainer, I agree with you that the equipment and health foods are not clutter and that the stress that they impart is positive motivation.
This was fun🤗If I get rid of what is small on me, I will have nothing left. I don't have $ to buy anything so I'm in the process of losing some weight🤷🏻♀️🙏🏼
I had a skirt I *nearly* finished in 1994. I revisited it a few years (okay, 20) later, and it was far too small. Fast-forward another 2years. I’d lost 50 pounds, and thought “Hey, this should fit now! I’ll just finish it and . . .” I found that it’s not my style anymore. I binned it without any regret.
Bye bye mediocre HS Tennis player self! 🎾 As I throw away the rackets I haven’t used in years and have somehow followed me to two houses. Thank you Cass!! 💕
Stephanie, I'm with you on the tennis rackets! I have 2 that I have moved from place to place that haven't seen a tennis ball in years. Out they go! Someone,will be thrilled to find them at the local thrift store.
I let go of gifts I didn’t want. It was sooo liberating!!! It was so hard to let go of some sandals, but they wouldn’t give me the support my older self needs. Thank you for this challenge. Been very helpful. I look forward to your other inspiring challenges. Wishing you all the best happiness and health
My daughter is the one that has it all together. She adults a lot more than me. She was recently in a car accident. I was freaking out and she was the calm and cool one.
I have always looked up to, aspired to be like, and admired one of the moms who I met 27+ years ago in a Parent Education program. She was a 2x mom on the Board of Directors and I was a 21yo first timer. She is artistic, organized, registers all of her appliances for the warranties AND has them all organized, as well as makes sure her 90+ yo mom (who is a 🍅) is social, up to date with all of her computer gadgets, never to miss a Dr. appt., and has sewn hundreds upon hundreds of masks...oh, and her husband...he is just a awesome. And she has been in love with him for over 40 years. She has a way of only making you feel good about yourself and very much loved. I want to be like her.
Pretty much in tears watching this whole video. Thank you for the push and tips. This toxic stuff is awful - it's so hard to get rid of. Thank you again.
I've been doing the challenge along with the videos. I am a little behind, but I keep forcing myself to finish each week. Thank you for the weekly motivation!!
Brilliant video! I watched Dawn's video about Fantasy Self and hear it again here. I have some of that, a box or two of old (40+ year old) text books, totes of heirlooms that will never be allowed from the basement to the main floor, etc. Thanks for saying it all aloud!!! My parents used to "bless us" with boxes and boxes of crap that they didn't want when they visited. I don't know if it was just a test to see how much I'd put up with or what as my dad was always pretty anti-stuff. I've tossed a lot of it, but have hung on to the stuff with monetary value. Time to rethink that. (now to get my wife to watch this!!!)
I have a Wendell in my life! Not THE Wendall - a Wendell. Inspiring and annoying all at the same time! I want to be a Wendell! Thank you for the motivation to let go of the things that are toxic in my life. I have my parents old furniture in my home and have been feeling guilt about not wanting it. There is really something else that would make my life better instead. I appreciate the little kick.
I'm a bee 🐝. When my friend introduced me to stamping and cardmaking over 10 years ago, I knew I would be in big trouble if I wasn't organized from the start. This weekend I decided to donate the 2 seven foot tall revolving card racks and over 70 of her cards mailed to me over the years. (8 holidays per year!) I searched through my finished cards and packaged up over 50 in plastic sleeves to donate with the racks. I still have 3, ten drawer carts each labeled and 2 ten slot paper organizers to pare down. I still want to keep the hobby but not at the extreme level it expanded to 🥴
One tip for decluttering handmade artwork or crafts is to always ask the artist if they want them back before getting rid of them. I have made sculptures and quilts for family and I would love to have them back if they didn't want them any more; in fact I'd be hurt if they just donated them somewhere.
I'm happy to say that you, Cas, do not make me feel bad about myself. You make me feel great about myself when I watch you and learn something from you and put it into action. Maybe Wendell is to you what you are to us who learn from you. Love you Cas!
This video was what I needed to hear today Cassie. I'm hiding in my car because my emotions have gotten the better of me. I was manic cleaning the house for the new buyers while having a mental breakdown. Deep breathes, and we can do this together!
If someone leaves you a gift.. it is yours, do with what you choose; including, getting rid of it and or repurposing said item. I believe this with my whole heart. And tell people all the time if it is yours… do with what you choose to do with it.
Cas, this one is sooo hard. I cling onto my past and still have the old antique bed frame of the bed my dad was sleeping in when he passed away 40 year ago. I was young and we were soo close 💕😭. The toxic clutter is the hardest to get rid of even after watching this video.
Getting rid of or rehoming gifts is one of the more difficult things for me to do. My family members have no hold back when it comes to telling me off for rehoming, decluttering and even using items they have gifted me upwards of 30 years ago. My kids recently accidentally damaged a croquet set that was given to me in '94 and I was "disgustingly ungrateful." Time almost stagnates in some people's minds and it can cause some very uncomfortable conversations when it comes to past gifts.
I agree that rehoming gifts is difficult. One thing that helped me was leaving them till the last along with sentimental items. By then my family and friends knew I’d been decluttering (I’m trying to use the word downsizing with them because it doesn’t trigger as much) and I’d be tackling sentimental last. When I came to a gift from a sentimental (or maybe judgmental) person I’d ask if they would like it back or knew of anyone that would like to have it because I was downsizing. Most said they didn’t want it and we’re fine with me giving it away. I’ve had one person upset but that’s all. Good luck with your gift rehoming! 😄
As an avid survivor fan, I watched Wendell win, he was a true survivor winner. I loved watching the two of u on "one hot mess". I have a Aunt, could put Martha Stewart to shame..
A huge thank you Cas for doing this awesome boot camp. I think of myself as generally cut throat when it comes to decluttering, I normally don’t feel bad about tossing- BUT we all have our weak points and you definitely helped me with mine. Identity/hobby clutter is so hard. I used to be a painter and a crafter and now I just don’t have the time for any of that, thinking about even trying to make time creates so much stress for me- when that used to be the whole point of those hobbies was to destress haha. Now it has the reverse effect.
I love this. So many relatable situations, especially the books which i recently downsized. My adult life all i wanted was a nice cozy library room or corner so i wasn't always reading in bed. The idea of a book collection and library seemed great. just not ideal for me. I kept books i enjoy reading more than once, a limited few for collection reasons, and some i want to re read then donate. My biggest problem is I'm picky about where to take them. I am also a dumpster diver, and know too well that any day of the week some places have their bins filled to the brims with books, magazines, movies etc. It all goes to the landfills. I'm for the #donatedontdestroy thing. Which leads me to another conundrum, obviously diving leads to clutter. It takes time to sort and especially with covid floating around i now quarantine my finds 48 hours before i wipe, wash and sanitize. I need to find a better method for doing this because I'll pull it all out and end up with piles and my anxiety hits. I have to walk away. Fortunately i got filing cabinets in the garage now and sort items by season and holiday and that helps. I will be checking out plenty of your videos as a new subbie!!
Two sanity-savers: Staples for electronics recycling - enough said Community refrigerators / pantries - I’ve decluttered SO much food, and the people who take it are REALLY thankful! Even stuff that at is expired but that I would still eat (eg nuts, spices) can be re-homed here.
Homeschool momma here. When it comes to artwork. I started a class on Artsonia. All I do is snap a picture and it will stay in their portfolio forever. That way I can still see their progress but do not have to keep it ALL! When my kids went to public school they wanted to keep every 100 they made.
Cas, you just hit several points right off the bat (approx 3 minutes in) that will help me make it easier to part with things I do not want, use or need in my home. Just found the BootCamp series and think this is going to be a huge help for me. I already de-cluttered two big areas I knew would be hard and those are cosmetics and clothing (both will be re-visited again for more work). The gifts made or given by family, are hard, so thank you! I am finding myself overwhelmed by my stuff and actually feel bullied every time I attempt to organize because I need to get rid of things to make space to properly organize the way I want my things, but there are my things staring me down as if they are saying "sure, go for it sister, you know you will just throw your hands up in despair and walk away like the last time". I felt the need to make a giant mess (pull it all apart and sort) to get it whittled down to keep and go, then organize. I love the easy categorized get rid of items you created, it will make my style easier to achieve, and get my home minimized and orderly. I like organized closets (by type and color for clothing on hangers), by color groups and height for shoes on a shelf in one closet, and handbags by color in a closet. I want to display things that make me smile and are eye-appealing but not too much of it and that means things need to go. I am still trying to identify my type since I think I am a mix. You amaze me with your honesty, humor, sense of self, and direct approach. Thank you for being you and sharing yourself with us by creating "Clutterbug". Lynn
When my son was little, I kept every single piece of artwork and craft he had done from pre-pre-school until he was a teenager. One night I decided I really did not need it anymore. We both went through it all together. It was a fun evening and full of laughs. I have one picture framed from kindergarden and took pictures of a few other faves but it all went into the trash or recycling.
I have BOXES of mementos from students over the past decade. It is taking up SO MUCH space, and saying goodbye to them will help clear up space in my craft room!
Thank you for the Expensive tip, it’s my struggle for the past 11 years and I finally followed your tip. I’m surprised how free I’m feeling. Like the heavy weight lifted from my shoulders! I can now walk through my home without any obstacle inhibiting the traffic flow.
Yes!! I had a dream last night I was totally free to reach my dream, I woke up I could feel the objects in my bedroom cupboard, and everywhere in the house tying me down, robbing me of my freedom. You can bet I went straight out and bought bin bags and collected boxes! My bedroom is now decluttered!!
This is the most empowering decluttering video I have ever watched. Thank you for looking out for the part of our well-being we tend to overlook ourselves.
Hobby supplies is a tough one. Pre-pandemic I had a nice balance exploring all kinds of creative outlets. The last almost 2 years, my studio has been a catch all for clutter I can't deal with. I still have organized supplies but I haven't touched them. I want to, but life became a huge adaptation to new responsibilities like home schooling and taking on a new job. 😔
My best friend Celeste since age 9 is my Wendell. Love this series and look forward to more videos, I needed them at this point in my clutter journey after losing my grandma who raised me an holding onto alot of things I probably shouldnt of. Thank you
I know lots of people whose lives are amazing and they all inspire me. They are my sign that my desire to be more and experience more is possible. I just have to focus on my desires not theirs.
The combination of straight-to-the-heart wisdom and humor really motivates me to action. Thank you!
I read quite a story from a woman who had been going through a tough time and kept a journal to help her sort things out. Having survived that tough time, whenever she moved the journals came with her. She poured so much of her heart into them she couldn’t leave them behind. Then when organizing with the idea that you only keep what you love, she realized that she had been dragging the worst time of her life with her from home to home. Once she had that epiphany it was easy to toss the journals and leave a difficult chapter in her life behind. I’ve always remembered this story when deciding what to keep or toss.
I love that!! Thanks for sharing!
Totally relate to this. I had clocked that & then also that I didn't want my daughter to read them when I die. She honestly said she couldn't promise not to ( love her honesty) first thing I did was trashed them. x
Wow 😮harrowing 😢
"Oh, this mop is telling me that I _should_ clean the floor"
_Throws mop out_
I love decluttering.
Wow! Describing items as "stealing space" really hit me. It is MY home and I want it to be lovely.
Didnt it! That really got through to me as my house was recently broken into and they did steal precious things from me.
It's hard keeping up with the Wendell's of the world and therefore we sometimes forget we all have our gifts and talents. You never know Cas, Wendell may be in awe of you in some way. Your energy, your empathy, your artistic talents. I know I am.
I definitely agree!!!
Sooooo true!!!!
me too!
44⁴4q
I'm picturing you walking in with the doughnut and him standing there with the green drink 😂 these kinds today haaaaa
PROGRESS UPDATE! I started a one month declutter on October 1st, then found your "bootcamp" (see my comment there). We have gone through room by room since then, and finally finished the last areas four days ago, including the carport and screened-in room. A loaded 20 foot trailer went to the dump plus we had a bonfire (🤠 yee haw). I now have boxes filled for donations to load in my car (several trips worth), and frankly, much of the house now looks like a bomb went off. I still am seeing areas that i skipped over, but the month isn't over yet. Thanks so much for your encouragement. You're my drill sergeant!
Wow! You are kicking butt! I hope you are very proud.
Go, mama, go!!
Not proud; relieved!
Some good will type places will come and pick stuff up.
I am so happy for you!!!!
Oh that "identity clutter" hit home big time! My husband and I retired from teaching after 20 and 34 years, respectively. Teaching is more than a career, it is an identity, a mission, a life's work. And that leads to a lot of STUFF that we put our own money into and now have no use for. Lots of it stayed at our schools but no one wanted most of it. Thanks for reminding me that retirement is a chance to redefine who I am!
Thanks for sharing!!
"Anytime an item is telling you what you should be doing - it's toxic." That was pretty mind-blowing for me. Thank you.
TOXIC CLUTTER
1. Clothes that are too small
2. Old hobby supplies
3. Gifts from loved ones that you don't like
4. Family heirlooms
5. Expensive beauty products
6. Workout equipment you're not using
7. Food you don't like
8. Health food
9. Electronics
10. Books you aren't going to read
11. Unfinished projects
12. Kids Artwork
13. Unreturned items
14. Expensive things we don't use
15. Items from your past self
Thank you. I'm still watching the entire vid but I hate suspense lol.
I keep my college stuff in a bin, so I can go back and visit my past. I am not my college self anymore, but sometimes I miss her. I like to keep her around in a way, so I keep a memory bin.
I'm TERRIBLE at returning things. I've accepted I'm terrible at it and just donate them.
My hubby got me an Advent Calendar last year from my favorite beauty supplier.... skincare items. About a third of the creams were not good for my skin but it was a Christmas Gift from my Husband, you know the triple threat. lol I had to chuck them, but then I had a great idea. Instead of throwing them away, I put them in my nightstand to put on my feet at night. The heavy creams that were terrible on my face worked great under some socks to soften my feet. Win/win. Other gifts just discretely find their way out of the house.
"It's time to give them to someone else so _they_ can feel bad about it.." 😄😄😄
😝
Cas, when you were talking about old textbooks and looked into the camera and said "I'm talking to you!", it was like you were looking right at me and seeing my bookcase that is full of 40+ year old textbooks. I don't know why I keep thinking I'll refer to them "someday". Its been over 40 years, and with very few exceptions, I haven't opened any of them even once! Thanks for the push to finally let them all go!
Hugs,
Shelly
Go Shelley!!!!! Awesome job!!!!
Hi Shelly - I have just given away my University textbooks that are over 30 years old. Felt great. You are not alone. Best wishes from another Shelley :)
What about year books I have a few since Jr high? 🤔
@@ethereal_moss thanks for the encouragement!
I work at a FREE STORE and a lot of our books are text books, but we throw them out
I have a Scouting friend, he's an attorney & he gets up at 4:30 every morning. Aside from being an avide runner, he also rucks! The thought of rucking is exhausting. After I make my morning coffee I need to sit just to recover from that!☕😂
Great video, Cas:
1. Clothes that are too small
2. old hobbies
3. Gifts from loved ones
4. Family heirlooms
5. Expensive beauty products
6. Workout equipment
7. Food you don’t like
8. Health food that you don’t consume
9. Electronic clutter
10. Books you’ll never read
11. Unfinished projects
12. Kids artwork
13. Unreturned items
14. Expensive you don’t use
15. Items from your past self (college text books, etc.)
Canning jars and other supplies have sat in our basement for two years. I just posted in an swap group: ISO of canning buddy and I'm giving them away to ladies who are active Canners in exchange for canned food. I will have the food storage I long for without the guilt and reduce my clutter by half.
I like the shout out at the end to Wendell, in a word where we are quick to tell someone about their faults it's great to celebrate excellence,in all things do the best you can, mediocrity blows.
Thank you for making me realize that my "Fantasy self" is toxic. I needed to hear it.
Toxic clothing 😢. For me it was my work scrubs. I loved my job and hope to go back to it one day but a couple weeks ago I realized I needed to get my scrubs out of my closet. I cried when I finally made the decision because it really meant for now I was not going to be using them. I have packed them away in a tote for another chapter in my life at a later date. Doing this really helped me accept and start to enjoy where I am in my life right now. ❤
You could donate to a medical school for newbies, helping someone start their career in the industry you love while you take a pause...then treat yourself to new ones when you're ready to return.
Big hug to you! ❤️ We go through various seasons in life... good work moving forward! You made progress!
Thank you for your service. x
The last time I burned my closing. Before, when I thought going out, I sold it. You know when its the time to change.
@@kikitaube-hansen
This video makes me cry...honestly
So many things in our lives that hold us back...It's time to let them go
My sister in law rocks at everything. She always seems to have her ducks in a row. I can’t even get mine in one pond. It’s disgusting, but she’s great. We’re thankful to have her.
I'm sure you have a lot to offer as well!
I've been watching several de-cluttering videos, and this is the BEST!!!!
Wow! This has been SO helpful!!! I have so many everyday items in my home that remind me of my abusive past (narcissistic parents), and I've been struggling with extreme guilt at even the thought of getting rid of them. I no longer have a relationship with my parents or siblings, so these "toxic clutter" items are the only things I do have to remember them by--making it extremely hard to let go. But they're cluttering up my mental and emotional capacity even if they are "used daily" in my home. I can buy new kitchen utensils and serving dishes that don't have that emotional ball-and-chain that my current ones do. This installment of the Declutter Bootcamp feels incredibly freeing!!
Thanks for sharing! I'm so glad it was helpful for you!
I just dropped 3/4 of a trash bag at the curb from my bedroom and master bathroom. That was satisfying. Thanks Cass.
I recently got rid of a huge China set that my mom gave me 4 years ago. The set moved with us across the US twice and remained boxed the entire time. I didn't have the guts to tell my mom I got rid of it but I feel much better now that leaned to give myself permission to get rid of things
Thank you for this bootcamp! I am such a bee!!! I have a hard time getting rid of things especially if I may “need” them in the future. I was decluttering/organizing my kitchen cabinets and pantry this weekend (the whole weekend). I was really struggling with “perfection” during the organization and wanted to give up so I said self…what would Cass say…You can do hard things, 5 minutes makes a difference, progress over perfection, it’s ok for it to be good enough…I finally finished the project and thought Cass would be proud 🥰♥️🥰 Thank you for being my inspiration and motivation
Wow, it's like you have been all through my home!!!
My mom is an amazing house keeper. Everything has a place. Her laundry smells heavenly. She's 87 and gets more work done in her house in 15 minute spurts each day, than I do in a week. I love her but she can be quite intimidating. She isn't allowed to visit my home. We've been redoing our house, it's a wreck and I'm paralyzed with guilt.
Deborah, don't compare yourself! I'm sure you are a great person. Just do it at your own pace. Good luck w/ the house
Your Mom is amazing. It is nice to know how with it and capable we can be at 87+ Gives me confidence!
I really appreciate your support for getting rid of clothes that are too small. I’m going through my closets right now and realize that I have waaaaayyyy more clothes than I have room for (a bit of an early hoarding situation was happening, piles on the floors and all that). It’s wonderful to have encouragement to get rid of the small sizes to make room for things I can actually wear. Last week, I actually got shamed by someone here on TH-cam when I mentioned my fluctuating weight, they said I just needed more self-discipline to fit back into those clothes 😢 Well, if I ever lose the weight, I don’t want to wear clothes that are 10-15 years old anyway, so out they go! Thank you!
My son and I cleaned the downstairs family room ,which really needed to be done ,but I kept putting it off! I feel so much better! Starting is the hardest part!!! Say goodbye to the clutter!
I just love your honesty especially with Wendell and people like him that kind of inadvertently make us feel bad about ourselves. Truly, we probably need to be doing more to improve our own lives if we are bothered by the Wendells of the world but I get it…it’s hard to move past someone who seems perfect on the outside! Just remember that we ALL have demons and some people are very good at hiding those from others. Be the best self you can be and love who you are!!!🥰
Cass, I cannot thank you enough ♥️
I was battling severe depression, and finally found a medication that actually worked. The pro, it stopped my depression, the con, the weight gain.
I had kept my clothes that no longer fit, and it made me feel bad about myself. I really needed encouragement to get rid of the clothes. I did it right after watching your video. Thank you, thank you! ♥️
I love this video. I can tell when something is toxic or negative by paying attention to how my face muscles react. My lip will curl up or I will wrinkle my nose. Our bodies can tell us what our minds try and over shadow.
Also, I have to give credit to a wonderful therapist who once told me “don’t should on yourself”. When you say “I should be …” you are shaming and guilting yourself. That is toxic thinking.
Yes we all have to “adult” and do things we would rather not do. But the reality is “adulting” is a means to what we truly need or desire.
Examples of adulting vs shoulding.
Adulting:
I want clean clothes to wear therefore I will do laundry.
In this scenario it is an hour before bed.
“I should do the dishes now because I want to read and unwind before bed.” This I should is a logistical thought process that quickly turns into…”I shall do the dishes now so that I will have enough time to read and relax.”
Example of toxic “should”:
“Instead of doing my scheduled reading I should take that time to clean the bathroom. It’s really dirty. It won’t take long and I can always read afterwards.” This is shaming. The bathroom may need cleaning but you also need and deserve the time to unwind before bed.
If you choose to clean the bathroom: a) you may continue down the one more thing path until you collapse into bed. b) you clean it and then read but you are now going to bed later than you scheduled. So you may be tired the next day
If you don’t clean the bathroom a) you may wish to quickly make a note or schedule a future time to clean the bathroom so it is off your mind. b) you may read, relax, sleep and schedule the bathroom when you wake up and are refreshed.
So the next time you think “I should be …”, ask yourself is this the means to obtain something I truly desire? Or am I just bullying yourself?
Excellent advice!!
So helpful. I do the bedtime scenario poorly a lot 😅
Thank for taking the time to share your wisdom ✌️💜💜💜
I love what you're saying but here's the SECRET to success! Maintenance. Don't let things pile up, clean as you go and by all means... Purge!!! A place for everything is also key element to this success.
thank you for sharing this! an excellent way to reframe -- I have one example especially that could benefit from this :D
I'm saving this one to hopefully watch yearly. There was so much good advice and truths in there. I'm guilty of keeping clothes that doesn't fit because I like the styles and they "almost fit".😃
You can keep them, just not in your closet where they bully you 😅
@@MsEgwene You are right, but knowing me I'll forget about them. I might as well donate them so they could be used. It will still be a struggle though! 😃
Thank you for your comment.
For me those that almost fit give me motivation to shed those 5 pounds or so. So I really spend the time and only save the most loved and needed items. So if there is like 10 items I try to give myself permission to keep 3/5 of those items, donate the rest AND I hang them on hangers and put next to a mirror (back of door) or my treadmill or just out of the way yet in a place I would be embarrassed if a guest saw it, so that I get on that treadmill to focus on those last 5/10 pounds….
I recently moved into a new modern house with lots of storage. It’s very clutter free and organised..and yet……..every video I watch points to at least three things I still have! The video that mentioned the piles of unmatched socks made me laugh out loud, so did the reminder about the small clothes. I was feeling snug about not having a hobby cupboard until I remembered I still have my flute from school. I am 64 years old! It’s a reminder that decluttering is a lifetime chore, not a one off!
The yogurts in the fridge are going now!!! This video was motivating. Recently got rid of some of my mom's "stuff". My living room is MY living room now. I have gotten better at this with age. I am doing some Swedish Death Cleaning. I know our kids won't want it all.
Good for you!
This may be creating digital clutter, but we take pictures of all of the artwork and then throw it out. I keep a few choice pieces and all the rest goes. The kids are alright with it because they know there's still a picture of it!
]jt5j6i
That's a great idea!
A great idea! I wish we had the digital means back when my daughter was young (80's),
That's my m.o. with kids' artwork too. I keep a few choice pieces but as long as they know I've taken a picture of the rest they give no complaint when I chuck them. Someday I might get a photo book made from the photos but at least for now the artwork paper clutter isn't taking over my house.
Hi Cass - Great video. I think the one thing I've learned from you, and others, is that just because I bought X, and spent a lot of money on it, if it doesn't add to my life, it must go. And since now I feel great about gifting all these things to others, there is no guilt, or remorse. My friend had a garage sale to help farell cats last week and I donated every cookbook in my house and all my old (expensive) purses. It felt fabulous. Now I have the mindset, to get rid of stuff from living in the same house for 30 years (it's going to take awhile). As for Windell - when you are a young woman, you are always very critical of yourself (we all have been there). But when you get old (68) you finally realize that just being who you are is the best. You stop comparing yourself, realize half your friends are ill, dead or crazy. You wake up each day, Grateful you woke up and just live the best you can. And you finally realize you like yourself, even if no one else does. Life is crazy, but in the end we just like ourselves, don't care what others think, and keep on marching. Continued success. Love PegEgg
😊
I needed to hear this. I’m a retired music teacher and I got rid of most of my teaching supplies, but I kept some things “just in case.” Every time I go into that room (that also contains crafting and sewing supplies) I want to turn around and go out. The things in there make me feel bad about myself. It’s time to get serious about letting go. Thanks for your videos. I love them.
You are so right, that stuff has weighed heavy on my mind throughout the years. I'm retired and am finally doing a lot of the fun crafts, sewing and knitting projects I wasn't able to do while working. But the years I've kept these craft and hobby items and looked at them like 'I'll finish it someday' gave me lots of grief. Even now as I find time to finish some of those items, I have to look at how many of these things am I able to do in my lifetime. I need to remember there are more inspiring and new things to make or create in the future. I used this method of decluttering my huge collection of DVD's and CD's as well. I watch a lot of DVD's but there are so many new movies coming out - way more than anyone can keep up with. So I was able to declutter 70% of DVD'd that I owned. That bookshelf has a lot of space left so I was able to use it for books as well. When it came to my CD's, I finally set up my table top radio/CD/cassette player. At first I thought I'd declutter the stereo system, but once I set it up and gave it a home of honor (I love music) it became a loved focal point in my living room. I've never been so happy to have music in my life again in this way. I was able to declutter about 70% of my CD's down to 4 shoe boxes full. But then I got a storage system to remove the plastic cover and gave the slimline CD's a special storage box about the size of 1 shoebox (container method) and now I love all the music I have and get to listen to again. It makes me happy instead of upset and guilt ridden. There are a few more areas like this that I need to declutter, but this was such a win! Thanks for your Videos and caring so much about others.
I’m with you on the crafts. But I have been slowly using them since retirement. But like you I couldn’t use it all in if I had a lifetime to do it. Wish my arthritis didn’t interfere so much😢
Oh my regarding the crafts, I have way too much that I will never use but I keep it because I never know what it might be useful for. Some old projects I keep however not many, those go I a good sam box or I give them to some one else. Since there is some stuff I won't use I keep some of it for my little grand to make stuff with. Some of the old sewing projects mixed with newer fabric gives it a whole new life and makes it fun again. We do not have to finish the way we thought we would 20 years ago. Have fun!
I think the crafts and projects area will be my doom. I want to do so much but I'm so tired. I have been letting my kids use a lot of my supplies lately. It's hard because I always have a baby or toddler so I can't do certain projects due to kids getting into it. Wishing I had a separate craft room, but a 4 bedroom house with 6 kids and one on the way doesn't permit a lot of free space. Why is this so hard!!
Do your crafts and give them to your kids. Isn’t that what they did when they were in school? I wish I had something my mom made. I would never declutter that!! If your kids are into music like you (mine are) make them “mix tapes” on CD from yours and theirs HS days. Big hit! 💖🦩
@@bcfriardoyle7697
I love this idea. I do have a few things my mom made and I am displaying them. Hopefully my kids will do the same 🤞🏻
I need 15 weeks to do this not a week!!!!!! Thanks for the tough love 🥰
I'm working on Decluttering right up to Christmas and maybe even all of January because of the amount I have to go thru and because I have a number of chronic health conditions that mean i need to take many breaks or I end up really sick, tired and in unbearable pain. I adapt everything I can into tasks I do for 5, 10 or 15 minutes, depending on how much pain I have. I am determined that by February (the month of love) I will only have in my house what I need or use, what I love and what helps me to love and look after myself. Hope this helps, Blessings, Dot
This decluttering stuff has taken over my life. I actually had a few dreams that I needed to get back to decluttering.
It takes time, especially the paper stuff. I'm hoping to give myself and organized and clean home for Christmas. I'm not the type of person who can throw everything into a big black trash bag at once.
Cas has worked with Dawn from the Minimal Mom. One of Dawn's videos just popped up about finding the time to declutter. She suggests substituting the word energy for time.
By decluttering slowly, we are detaching ourselves emotionally from our stuff. I'm finding that and finding that I'm developing new habits to keep my space clean and organized.
I spent today working on the first task -clothes. I packed 3 boxes for donations going through all my summer and fall/winter clothes. Felt so good to finally let go and realize I’m gifting these things that I really will never wear again. They served me well and it was time to let go
Gotta love Wendell. In spite of our insecurities, we need more Wendells in the world! It’s so encouraging to see such a fine individual in the midst of the sea of horrible people we witness daily. Go Wendell! Have a million clones!
Wendell sounds inspiring! Thank you for making these videos to help others. Your kindness, strength and motivation is changing lives. For real. Comparison is the thief of joy. It isn't a competition. Also, Wendell didn't get to taste donuts that day. So, there's that!! 😂 😜 🥰
My house (San Francisco Bay Area) flooded last Sunday. It made me realize how much junk I had just sitting around. I have a bad back pain problem, and I resented every box I had to lift and find a higher place for. Now that the most urgent cleanup is done, I can barely move from the pain. This stuff must go! It’s not the first time my low-lying location flooded and won’t be the last, next time it will be easier if I purge all this junk.
Thanks for this boot camp series, Cas! I've cleared out a bunch this month. I even started giving away my stash of fabric. That's a biggie. And 4 more bins of books, ready to go bye-bye. Yay!
When I was younger I had plenty of Wendells. But now, older and wiser and more accepting of my own flaws, I realize all those Wendells have just as many warts as I do.
....I have quite a bit of supplies for being creative, however, the reality that I need space to do these satisfying hobbies is the only reason I don't do them as much as I did previously. I am not actually getting rid of my nice machines, supplies, because it does nourish my Soul and Spirit when I have the opportunity to work on that craft.
This is how I feel. I have no space to do things anymore.
I got rid of a piece of toxic clutter this week! A few years ago I bought a portrait at a thrift store. Frankly I thought the portrait was pretty terrifying but it was in a beautiful high-end custom frame so I bought it for the frame. I put my cell phone on the shelf while I loaded the piece into my shopping cart. After checking out I realized I didn't have my phone and went back for it and it was gone. Someone took it. I looked up the artist who created the portrait and ended up emailing him and then having a phone conversation. I still hated the image but now I felt guilty thinking about tossing the portrait because the artist was a lovely person. I felt bad for only wanting the frame. And then the frame did not fit the picture I had in mind and I never came across anything else to fit in it. So for all this time this has been a piece of supremely toxic clutter. It caused me shame and guilt for so long but no more, it's gone from my home!
Perfect example of toxic ! 😉
The way I let go of my kid's art is to take photos and store them digitally. They take up no space and yet I get to keep the memories. 👍. Sending lots of love 💖 from sunny 🌞 Arizona 🌵😷
What a great idea.
While I agree with so many of the ideas here and am glad for them as inspiration, I don't completely agree with the general logic that, if something is making you feel bad because you should be using it, it's toxic and you should throw it out. "Toxic" imo has become a word much too easily used to give excuse to cut ourselves off from anything or anyone that we don't like or that makes us feel any way we don't like. But legitimate responsibilities might make us feel bad. Valuable insights or advice from people who we know truly love us can nevertheless make us feel bad. But emotions don't dictate what is true and what is false. There are times when our *thinking* is what's really toxic, and what needs sorted or thrown away before any tangible thing. For instance, maybe I have workout gear because I truly NEED to be taking better care of my body. If it's making me feel bad because I'm not committing to it, should I get rid of it, or should I spend some serious time thinking through my priorities to decide what is most important, and act accordingly? Maybe that DOES mean my free weights need to go. But maybe it means I need to change something - different equipment, different schedule, different attitude, and the list goes on.
Understood, however clutter is toxic! Humans attach so much value to stuff. Most of it is just CRAP that needs to be thrown out. Living with excess doesn't make us successful necessarily but can weigh you down. Some ppl are closet hoarders and won't admit they have a problem because they lack organizational skills. If you show a picture to a toddler of two environment, 1. Clean, tidy, minimal, shattered with some greenery.
2. Over furnished, dirty, messy, a total disaster.
The child will never pick #2 even if their favorite toy is pictured. The pure spirit in them knows better.
@@DivineBlessing4 I get it you dont need the word "toxic" to understand living with excess, clutter, crap, trash, visual and mental clutter is NOT HEALTHY! How many ppl feel peaceful in an environment that is a disaster?
Thank you for a thoughtful added perspective!
There's a difference in fantasy self and best self. I was feeling much like OP during this video but I realized she's talking about the fantasy self. Get ride of what you want (fantasy self) to focus on the things you need (best self).
As a fitness trainer, I agree with you that the equipment and health foods are not clutter and that the stress that they impart is positive motivation.
This was fun🤗If I get rid of what is small on me, I will have nothing left. I don't have $ to buy anything so I'm in the process of losing some weight🤷🏻♀️🙏🏼
I had a skirt I *nearly* finished in 1994. I revisited it a few years (okay, 20) later, and it was far too small.
Fast-forward another 2years. I’d lost 50 pounds, and thought “Hey, this should fit now! I’ll just finish it and . . .” I found that it’s not my style anymore. I binned it without any regret.
Bye bye mediocre HS Tennis player self! 🎾 As I throw away the rackets I haven’t used in years and have somehow followed me to two houses. Thank you Cass!! 💕
Stephanie, I'm with you on the tennis rackets! I have 2 that I have moved from place to place that haven't seen a tennis ball in years. Out they go! Someone,will be thrilled to find them at the local thrift store.
I let go of gifts I didn’t want. It was sooo liberating!!!
It was so hard to let go of some sandals, but they wouldn’t give me the support my older self needs.
Thank you for this challenge. Been very helpful. I look forward to your other inspiring challenges. Wishing you all the best happiness and health
yesss! i've been immediately putting gifts i dont want in the giveaway pile :)
Okay Ms. Quinoa! Let it go!!!! 😂😂😂😂. You know what I’m sayin’. You’re never going to eat that! 😜
Lol. You are so right! I'm never going to eat that!
Send it to me! I looooove quinoa 😎
My daughter is the one that has it all together. She adults a lot more than me. She was recently in a car accident. I was freaking out and she was the calm and cool one.
I have always looked up to, aspired to be like, and admired one of the moms who I met 27+ years ago in a Parent Education program. She was a 2x mom on the Board of Directors and I was a 21yo first timer. She is artistic, organized, registers all of her appliances for the warranties AND has them all organized, as well as makes sure her 90+ yo mom (who is a 🍅) is social, up to date with all of her computer gadgets, never to miss a Dr. appt., and has sewn hundreds upon hundreds of masks...oh, and her husband...he is just a awesome. And she has been in love with him for over 40 years. She has a way of only making you feel good about yourself and very much loved. I want to be like her.
You hit it out of the park today!! I’m guilty of all of this!! Every topic!! Currently detoxing I mean decluttering my house!! 😉
Love this video. It really hits on mental & emotional effects of a cluttered home.
Pretty much in tears watching this whole video. Thank you for the push and tips. This toxic stuff is awful - it's so hard to get rid of. Thank you again.
Yellow is a lovely color for you! Thank you for this series!
Yes, I noticed that too!
I've been doing the challenge along with the videos. I am a little behind, but I keep forcing myself to finish each week. Thank you for the weekly motivation!!
Yay you! Well done for actually doing the challenge! 💪
Brilliant video! I watched Dawn's video about Fantasy Self and hear it again here. I have some of that, a box or two of old (40+ year old) text books, totes of heirlooms that will never be allowed from the basement to the main floor, etc. Thanks for saying it all aloud!!!
My parents used to "bless us" with boxes and boxes of crap that they didn't want when they visited. I don't know if it was just a test to see how much I'd put up with or what as my dad was always pretty anti-stuff. I've tossed a lot of it, but have hung on to the stuff with monetary value. Time to rethink that.
(now to get my wife to watch this!!!)
I have a Wendell in my life! Not THE Wendall - a Wendell. Inspiring and annoying all at the same time! I want to be a Wendell! Thank you for the motivation to let go of the things that are toxic in my life. I have my parents old furniture in my home and have been feeling guilt about not wanting it. There is really something else that would make my life better instead. I appreciate the little kick.
"Anytime an item in your home is telling you what you should be doing, it's toxic!" I need this reminder to donate, NOT sell stuff. Thank you!
You're welcome!
I'm a bee 🐝. When my friend introduced me to stamping and cardmaking over 10 years ago, I knew I would be in big trouble if I wasn't organized from the start. This weekend I decided to donate the 2 seven foot tall revolving card racks and over 70 of her cards mailed to me over the years. (8 holidays per year!) I searched through my finished cards and packaged up over 50 in plastic sleeves to donate with the racks. I still have 3, ten drawer carts each labeled and 2 ten slot paper organizers to pare down. I still want to keep the hobby but not at the extreme level it expanded to 🥴
@24carrot gold
I’m rooting for you! Congratulations on a good start. Prayers for endurance to get through what you want.
One tip for decluttering handmade artwork or crafts is to always ask the artist if they want them back before getting rid of them. I have made sculptures and quilts for family and I would love to have them back if they didn't want them any more; in fact I'd be hurt if they just donated them somewhere.
Wow!!
My son has turned out yo be the cleanest most organized person I know and boy oh boy he didn’t learn it from me❤️❤️❤️
I'm happy to say that you, Cas, do not make me feel bad about myself. You make me feel great about myself when I watch you and learn something from you and put it into action. Maybe Wendell is to you what you are to us who learn from you. Love you Cas!
This video was what I needed to hear today Cassie. I'm hiding in my car because my emotions have gotten the better of me. I was manic cleaning the house for the new buyers while having a mental breakdown. Deep breathes, and we can do this together!
Cas, I love everything about this video. You nailed it! Great job!
I ordered just a couple pantry bins from Walmart with my pick-up. I cleaned out enough pantry space to use them. Just a bite at a time.
Your videos are always funny as well as helpful
This is probably the best decluttering video I've ever watched, because you got down to the psychology of clutter.
If someone leaves you a gift.. it is yours, do with what you choose; including, getting rid of it and or repurposing said item. I believe this with my whole heart. And tell people all the time if it is yours… do with what you choose to do with it.
When you cry like that, it shows you have a heart and that is beautiful.
Thank you for this amazing presentation. This spoke to me in profound way!!! You are brilliant 🥰
Cas, this one is sooo hard. I cling onto my past and still have the old antique bed frame of the bed my dad was sleeping in when he passed away 40 year ago. I was young and we were soo close 💕😭. The toxic clutter is the hardest to get rid of even after watching this video.
Getting rid of or rehoming gifts is one of the more difficult things for me to do. My family members have no hold back when it comes to telling me off for rehoming, decluttering and even using items they have gifted me upwards of 30 years ago. My kids recently accidentally damaged a croquet set that was given to me in '94 and I was "disgustingly ungrateful." Time almost stagnates in some people's minds and it can cause some very uncomfortable conversations when it comes to past gifts.
I'm sorry they make you feel that way😥 if my family did that I'd suggest they keep the gifts since they want so much control over the stuff.
I agree that rehoming gifts is difficult. One thing that helped me was leaving them till the last along with sentimental items. By then my family and friends knew I’d been decluttering (I’m trying to use the word downsizing with them because it doesn’t trigger as much) and I’d be tackling sentimental last. When I came to a gift from a sentimental (or maybe judgmental) person I’d ask if they would like it back or knew of anyone that would like to have it because I was downsizing. Most said they didn’t want it and we’re fine with me giving it away. I’ve had one person upset but that’s all. Good luck with your gift rehoming! 😄
As an avid survivor fan, I watched Wendell win, he was a true survivor winner. I loved watching the two of u on "one hot mess". I have a Aunt, could put Martha Stewart to shame..
A huge thank you Cas for doing this awesome boot camp. I think of myself as generally cut throat when it comes to decluttering, I normally don’t feel bad about tossing- BUT we all have our weak points and you definitely helped me with mine. Identity/hobby clutter is so hard. I used to be a painter and a crafter and now I just don’t have the time for any of that, thinking about even trying to make time creates so much stress for me- when that used to be the whole point of those hobbies was to destress haha. Now it has the reverse effect.
Just discovered this channel a month ago. I didn't know I needed this. Cass is better than a therapist.
Truth.
I have boxes of stuff for hobbies I never really got into, cake decorating, dried flower arranging, etc. I think it’s time to get rid of this junk.
Genius! You hit the nail right on the head!Some of these catagories, I've already purged. Moving right along to the others.
I love this. So many relatable situations, especially the books which i recently downsized. My adult life all i wanted was a nice cozy library room or corner so i wasn't always reading in bed. The idea of a book collection and library seemed great. just not ideal for me. I kept books i enjoy reading more than once, a limited few for collection reasons, and some i want to re read then donate.
My biggest problem is I'm picky about where to take them. I am also a dumpster diver, and know too well that any day of the week some places have their bins filled to the brims with books, magazines, movies etc. It all goes to the landfills. I'm for the #donatedontdestroy thing.
Which leads me to another conundrum, obviously diving leads to clutter. It takes time to sort and especially with covid floating around i now quarantine my finds 48 hours before i wipe, wash and sanitize. I need to find a better method for doing this because I'll pull it all out and end up with piles and my anxiety hits. I have to walk away. Fortunately i got filing cabinets in the garage now and sort items by season and holiday and that helps.
I will be checking out plenty of your videos as a new subbie!!
Wendell sounds like my husband. He will set a goal and totally go after it. I can't wrap my brain around that. Great info, thanks!!!
Two sanity-savers:
Staples for electronics recycling - enough said
Community refrigerators / pantries - I’ve decluttered SO much food, and the people who take it are REALLY thankful! Even stuff that at is expired but that I would still eat (eg nuts, spices) can be re-homed here.
Homeschool momma here. When it comes to artwork. I started a class on Artsonia. All I do is snap a picture and it will stay in their portfolio forever. That way I can still see their progress but do not have to keep it ALL! When my kids went to public school they wanted to keep every 100 they made.
Cas, you just hit several points right off the bat (approx 3 minutes in) that will help me make it easier to part with things I do not want, use or need in my home. Just found the BootCamp series and think this is going to be a huge help for me. I already de-cluttered two big areas I knew would be hard and those are cosmetics and clothing (both will be re-visited again for more work). The gifts made or given by family, are hard, so thank you! I am finding myself overwhelmed by my stuff and actually feel bullied every time I attempt to organize because I need to get rid of things to make space to properly organize the way I want my things, but there are my things staring me down as if they are saying "sure, go for it sister, you know you will just throw your hands up in despair and walk away like the last time". I felt the need to make a giant mess (pull it all apart and sort) to get it whittled down to keep and go, then organize. I love the easy categorized get rid of items you created, it will make my style easier to achieve, and get my home minimized and orderly. I like organized closets (by type and color for clothing on hangers), by color groups and height for shoes on a shelf in one closet, and handbags by color in a closet. I want to display things that make me smile and are eye-appealing but not too much of it and that means things need to go. I am still trying to identify my type since I think I am a mix. You amaze me with your honesty, humor, sense of self, and direct approach. Thank you for being you and sharing yourself with us by creating "Clutterbug". Lynn
When my son was little, I kept every single piece of artwork and craft he had done from pre-pre-school until he was a teenager. One night I decided I really did not need it anymore. We both went through it all together. It was a fun evening and full of laughs. I have one picture framed from kindergarden and took pictures of a few other faves but it all went into the trash or recycling.
I have BOXES of mementos from students over the past decade. It is taking up SO MUCH space, and saying goodbye to them will help clear up space in my craft room!
Thank you for the Expensive tip, it’s my struggle for the past 11 years and I finally followed your tip. I’m surprised how free I’m feeling. Like the heavy weight lifted from my shoulders! I can now walk through my home without any obstacle inhibiting the traffic flow.
This perspective of toxicity - things in our home that make us feel bad about ourselves. I'm glad that I've watched this.
Yes!! I had a dream last night I was totally free to reach my dream, I woke up I could feel the objects in my bedroom cupboard, and everywhere in the house tying me down, robbing me of my freedom. You can bet I went straight out and bought bin bags and collected boxes! My bedroom is now decluttered!!
This is the most empowering decluttering video I have ever watched. Thank you for looking out for the part of our well-being we tend to overlook ourselves.
Hobby supplies is a tough one. Pre-pandemic I had a nice balance exploring all kinds of creative outlets. The last almost 2 years, my studio has been a catch all for clutter I can't deal with. I still have organized supplies but I haven't touched them. I want to, but life became a huge adaptation to new responsibilities like home schooling and taking on a new job. 😔
you and your show have changed our lives!! Wendell is adorable.
One of your best, Cas 👍🏻 A great summary and a self-love preach! Thank you! I’m saving this one for reference ☺️
My best friend Celeste since age 9 is my Wendell. Love this series and look forward to more videos, I needed them at this point in my clutter journey after losing my grandma who raised me an holding onto alot of things I probably shouldnt of. Thank you
Thanks Cass. Having family tag sale and my Mom has hard time letting Grandmas stuff go. Now I can teach her about toxic clutter. Love Wendall ❤❤❤
I know lots of people whose lives are amazing and they all inspire me. They are my sign that my desire to be more and experience more is possible. I just have to focus on my desires not theirs.
Love that!