THANK YOU for watching!! We are SO grateful for you!! I think the next video to watch after this one is How to Declutter WITHOUT Making a Mess-- (this works SO well!!) th-cam.com/video/7yQqvQ99MVw/w-d-xo.html Have a good day!! Dawn
I really wish I could get to your stage, but I'm a hoarder so its like a piece of me gets thrown away when things get thrown. Plus I hate to waste anything. I have M.E and depression etc, thats why it really started. I'll keep watching and hope for a change in my mindset 🙏
Your hair looks really good pulled up on one side, and that shirt is amazing on you! I am definitely less stressed with less and when things are organized and clean.
I’ve been doing one room at a time. It’s been such a huge difference! Less time cleaning and more time with my kiddos. When I don’t want to make a trip to goodwill, I’ve been setting it at the curb. We have neighbors who have a lot of kids. They always take everything. Makes me feel good someone else can use it! I want to enjoy the house as it is, take a break and then do more layers. Thank you for everything you do to help us out! It can be overwhelming at first.
Am I the only one that watches Dawn’s videos over and over? It keeps me on track and motivated. Just to keep hearing it and feeding the words to my brain is so helpful.
I totally agree with you Lisa S ,I don't watch the same ones but l find that continuous encouragement and reminders do help me keep on track.Every time l watch one of my beloved youtuber reminding me to clean and declutter my home , l am filled up with renewed energy.ln the same way l watch self improvement guru's to keep me motivated in my self care.l benefitted so much from you tube videos that l started to upload my own videos too.
It happened. The kids are listening. In another room I heard one say to another, “Dawn says if you don’t get rid of it, you’ll just move it from pile to pile.”
The more I declutter, the more I want to get rid of. It's so much easier to keep the house clean. Less anxiety and stress now. Thanks for the inspiration.
Absolutely!! I'm so glad to be a part of this great idea. I've been telling my sisters about it & now they're working on becoming minimalists! Thanks so much Dawn & Tom for sharing. Your children are so sweet and respectful. God bless you all. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
I have two kids, HALF, of your kid amount. I'm so glad I found you. I am a budgeter who was about to hire a housekeeper! NOPE! I found YOU instead. Straight from Jesus. Thank you Dawn (and your family, too.)
I'm a house cleaner. Which may or not be the same as what you were looking at hiring. I clean plenty of houses that appear to be minimalist. Cleaning is different than decluttering and tidying, so please don't feel bad about asking for help in whatever form you want it to be 😊
I love how you're just standing in your kitchen with a cup of coffee, makes me feel like I'm just at a girlfriend's house having a chat. Really enjoy your content, minimalism has really made my whole life easier and I get so many great ideas from you and it keeps me motivated and on track :)
@@ddd1dorin396 people all have different ways of talking, prosody of speech etc. I am glad people can talk how they talk and if someone doesn't "speak " to me, I have freedom to seek guidance elsewhere. Thankfully, Minimalist Mom's style resonates with a lot of people, including me
Our church has done a give away day. We set it up like a garage sale, but don’t sell anything. It is free for our community. Then whatever was left was donated.
I have been to one of these, it was really cool! I found a few items--mostly for other people, because I don't NEED anything...but it was fun to look and see people excited to find things😉
Personally, I will forever be a supporter of Goodwill! Their services have blessed my family in immeasurable ways! My adult autistic son worked with a Goodwill job coach for about a year, and she was a FANTASTIC advocate for him, even after she was "officially" off the job with him. He is an employed success story because of her, and I am SOOO grateful!!
@@sassysandie2865 What is the gross revenue of the company, how many employees and locations? CEO is not a Salvation Army officer committed to poverty while serving.
When I went to Goodwill’s warehouse (in my city) and saw ALL the stuff they receive and how it is maintained, I was dismayed and saddened. I chose to no longer contribute to the MASSIVE amount of stuff they have to deal with. It doesn’t help that people give them JUNK (stuff that should have been put in a trash receptacle.) I now take my items to a thrift store I would personally be willing to shop from; that matters to me. If it is clothing that is not something I feel will easily sell in a thrift store, I take it to an organization in our city called Jesus House; they serve homeless people.
I just love you Dawn! I've been decluttering our home for the past few months. I too have been just putting stuff out on our curb and posting it on FB Marketplace or Craigslist. I had 1 lady that came and got a box of some of my nice work clothes (I'm now a homemaker and don't need so many work outfits, just a few things for church), and I also had some of my son's outgrown clothes and toys. After the lady loaded up the boxes, she stopped at my mailbox...I was concerned as to what she could be doing....she left me a THANK YOU note! Seriously, she told me how she had just gotten a new job and was really needing work clothes and her son was really needing clothes and would love the toys too. It made me cry. #PayItForward
you know what is so great about you, it's that you're not the minimalist type everyone thinks is "minimalism"... you have things, plenty of things that bring you joy, you have just forgone the insanity that is abundance. I can't imagine the stress and sadness you had when you were overwhelmed, but you took those lemons and literally made lemonade. you have a successful youtube channel, four happy incredible kids and a husband who takes all things in stride. you truly are an excellent role model on eliminating excess stress while living comfortably.
I like how she says: stop where it feels manageable to you. That’s a great way to find a benchmark without inviting the fear that you’ll end up with nothing or the overwhelm of trying to manage offloading to a deeply minimal place. What’s minimal for me may be differently minimal for you. Fantastic advice. Find your own minimal and adjust it as life moves forwards/as needed
Couldn’t agree more with everything you said about Dawn! She is amazing and I literally watch her for comfort because she makes me feel so hopeful and positive and motivates me as well
You have a new subscriber. Family of 8 and I have been a stay at home mom for almost 18 years. I have been in a depression/anxiety rut for years for many years due to loss of one of our children and health problems. It’s so overwhelming to even look at one room, one cabinet, one closet. This video hit me hard, and I actually had to stop for a bit because I couldn’t stop the crying. You’ve explained exactly what I want in life, what I need in life. Especially with children ranging from 17-3. I can’t keep up with everything on my own; and I spent so much time in a deep depression that I didn’t do the best at teaching them ways to stay organized. Now I’m trying to play catch-up and it is not easy. So thank you for breaking it down, into manageable ways to tackle it💜
@D_M: I sincerely hope things improved for you & accept my deepest condolences for the loss of your child. I could never imagine how deep that wound goes, but I can guarantee that time does heal wounds. How much time just depends on each situation. Also, remember you have other children who need you & couldn't be here without you! Prayers & Blessings to you & your family
All my love to you. We'd love an update, I know. Even if you haven't started, I'm getting through some of this, too. Beginning to try to teach older children good habits isn't easy! I keep reminding myself I'm not a bad mom if they take care of some things themselves. (Easier said than done.)
I used to feel my house needed a “backstage” but now it’s all onstage and anyone can stop in, use our bathroom, have a tour, and it’s fine. Woo Hoo ! That sparks joy ! Thanks Dawn ! I am so thankful Jesus led me to you and your family.
I did the thing where if I didn’t use it in the last year, I pulled it out, put it all in one room and asked my kids to go through it and see if they needed any of it...then I took the clothes to the resale shop and donated the rest. I arranged every room the way I wanted it, then made a pact with myself to put something back as soon as I pulled it out. Everything I want to acquire has to have a place to live or replace something else. We retired and downsized from 2200 to 840 square feet in a lake cabin. We spend MUCH more time outside with the grandkids, walking, kayaking, swimming and fishing. TOTALLY WORTH IT to have less stuff and MORE LIFE! God Bless!
I’ve been following a low-buy for almost two months and today I was really tested! I took an Amazon return to Kohl’s and our local store moved the Amazon return counter to the back of the store! I had to walk by cute clothes and I was so close to the seasonal decor but I DID NOT BROWSE! Because I was not there to shop and I don’t need anything. It was tough! But I did it.
I went to kohls first time since Covid yesterday. Saw the amazon return desk and was surprised! Had no idea they were taking returns at kohl’s. And YES! I picked up items that were not on my list. 🤦♀️ After this video I’m headed back to Kohl’s return. Did I need my extras, heck no! Feels good!! ❣️
Yes! I am trying to convince my husband that we can get rid of our plastic dish rack that sits in the sink. It takes up space, it's ugly, it's hard to clean and I honestly got by my whole life before that just piling clean dishes straight in the sink to dry plus we have a mat that folds away nicely for beside the sink.
The one she said that always resonates in my head is "do I really want to touch/move/deal with this again?" because I'm terrible about putting something somewhere to deal with later.... and then having an overwhelming pile of "do laters!" She's so great at knowing what we're thinking as we deal with this stuff!
and also "are we using this much?" I have many things that I received as gifts from family over the years (mostly kitchen or houseware related) that I don't need or use much, and either re-gift to family and friends or drop off at the thrift stores.
Agreed. I have such a hard time getting rid of things, I'm not entirely sure why, probably learned behaviors. I always go through with the, "Might I use this some day?" mindset. This question, "Could I get by without it?" gives me an approach that would help SO. MUCH. We are preparing to buy our first house within the next 3 months, I would like to not take all the clutter and mess right along with it.
Your suggestion to set a $50 threshold for selling vs. donating is exactly what I needed to hear today. I have been saving some items to sell, but just can't seem to move.them out of the house. I don't want to wait on them anymore. Thank you for the permission! I needed it!
Interesting about the tidying advice because I feel like I’m wasting my time tidying all the time when I could be decluttering stuff that I would never then have to tidy again
If you declutter your home/space first, you'll only be tidying the things you use and need consistently. There are always going to be "things" that you need and will have to tidy regularly. I think what she means by tidying to get people on board, is, as you declutter the more common spaces, such as bathrooms or the kitchen, and keep them tidy, they will begin to warm up to the idea in more intimate spaces like bedrooms, or the garage (for guys). Because if you did a bunch of decluttering but never tidy, they wont see the point because it wont look any better or feel any less stressful.
I’ve put stuff out for free and it my neighbors grab it instantly. The family across the street from us has 7 children, and has been blessed with a bookshelf, matching dressers, and empty storage tubs. The saying is true..one persons junk is another’s treasure. Thank you for your channel.
I am a huge fan of the Buy Nothing Project. The idea is that it’s a hyper local gift economy. You’re literally giving gifts to your community. It helps me to know that my stuff is blessing someone else. I gave a bedding set to a mom who was so grateful because she “never got nice things for herself.” I’ve had people come empty my garage of cardboard boxes so they could use it to mulch their garden. Good stuff doesn’t stop being good just because it no longer has a place in your life. I like that my things go on doing good, bringing joy, and enriching my community.
I'm a 20 year old university student, I don't have a husband a house, or children, but you are so CUTE and I love your energy and kindness, instant subscriber HAHAHA
Yeah but you are 10 steps ahead of all of us bc you are arming yourself with all this valuable knowledge on the forefront, rather than looking back at all your junk you and your kids/husband/etc spent decades accumulating, now trying to paw through it and unload it. Bravo to you!!
After university, having my first job, I started gathering more and more stuff. Money was no longer an issue, the idea I needed X, Y, Z for whatever reason (ads, societal pressure, colleagues etc) made that our last move was a mess. You are in a fantastic position to watch this now and have a free life.
Dawn, we had my brother and his family over for Thanksgiving this past week, and the kids all wanted to play hide-and-seek (adults included). Previously I probably would have panicked thinking of areas being discovered that were not be "guest ready" (i.e. closets). But because I have been following this journey of minimalism for about six months, I didn't have to worry about them hiding in closets, or even the garage! It's amazing how much more relaxed having people over can be when you literally don't care which drawer or cabinet they open, because they are all in decent order. My house is not perfect, and I still have more to minimize, but getting to this stage is encouraging! Thank you for the inspiration, tips, tricks, and advice to get to this point!
1. You look exceptional. 2. Thank you for posting these. I’m sure because you pretty much have this lifestyle down, it could seem repetitive for you, but these videos are treasures, so thank you!!
I love this! We, too, have 4 young kids and I’ve lived through the very stressful stage of feeling like I’m drowning in all the STUFF. Now that we’ve began peeling our onion, our house is starting to feel much more manageable. We aren’t minimalists by any means, but everything has a home and that is a beautiful feeling!
I am crying at this video 😭. I am a work at home mom of 3 under 5 and I can totally relate to this! I have found your videos have helped me minimize and have time to be a good mom, creator, and housekeeper 💗🙏🙏
I live in a cold climate and have found a box of hats, gloves, mittens and scarves. I also have more coats than I need. A family friend suggested giving them to schools or homeless shelters. Just a thought for this 2020 winter.
When I was in Ohio visiting my son he cleaned out his clothes and kitchen “stuff” that he didn’t need or use! What a difference it made. Now he has access to laundry room , cabinets and closets and can find what he “needs”! Gave it all to a men’s homeless shelter!
I live in Texas, and an organization called Texas Paralyzed Veterans does a donation pickup once per month and all I have to do is put it out on my front porch on the designated pickup day for my area. Besides the convenience and that I value their cause, another benefit is that it gives me a deadline each month for cleaning out a particular area of my house. If I don’t have anything to donate in a given month, then I just ignore the notification for that month.
Vietnam Veterans of America : every two weeks I go online and schedule a pick up , forces me to have my box(es), bags on the front porch by 8:00am! They take anywhere from 1-25 boxes bags for pickup , you can donate your automobile also and they live a tax receipt, though not too helpful these days!
Been working on that 1st layer of the onion since before you had 20K subscribers. Today, today! My husband says to me how nice and organized our towel cupboard looks Ha! I just got rid of all but 6 towels... not so much organized as not packed full! He was able to put clean towels away with one hand. Yay! Thanks for keeping me going Dawn. Happy holidays!
I've decided to cancel my membership to the quilt guild. There are several reasons: 1) I've felt stressed because I wasn't creating/donating enough items 2) I have several quilting projects I want to complete/make for my home or family 3) I deceived myself by thinking I'd cut down on my hoarding/spending because the many free items I brought home were for a good cause but didn't use. 4) My dad recently passed away and I've reconnected with my family. I want to invest in myself and people and let go of unneeded items and activities. Thank you for your earnest exhortation to declutter things from the past in order to live in the present.
Sunday past I dug out about 30 eyemakeup pallets ( I know, sheesh!) that I had in my collection and I wanted to get rid of them but the guilt from all the money I spent on them kept them in my home too long. I layed those palettes out on a large table , took a picture and put it on our Next Door Ap as Free. I had 15 ladies wanting them. so I took the time to PM each one and asked them pick two that they wanted. It took some work...but all of them were gone in 24 hours. I felt sooo good about it because makeup is expensive and these were very lightly used and a little spritz of alcohol santized them just fine. It made my week right off the bat! And the ladies that took home pallettes were just so grateful :) I really didn't know if ANYONE would want used makeup...but I was taken by surprise with the response. ETA: I should mentioned we did all porch pickups.
That must have felt so good! I gave all my old nail polish and some facial masks to a shelter for pregnant homeless women, and the little old lady who runs the place was very happy to get them!
I’ve been participating in a local children’s consignment sale. You can opt to donate your unsold items so they don’t return to your house. What I loved is I found out they let foster parents go through those unsold items!!!! It blesses me to know that they go to a good cause.
I definitely feel like the more I get rid of, the more I want to. I recently felt like we had gotten to a pretty decent place but that it still felt like there was too much stuff, but I couldn’t necessarily put my finger on what else to get rid of. And then we suddenly decided to sell our house and buy something else. We found a too-good-to-pass-up home and went from considering selling to in contract on a new house and whipping our house into show-worthy in a matter of a week. 😂 I don’t know if we could have done it without minimalism and now that we’re packing we’re like “do I realllly want to pay for a box and packing materials for this and pack it and pay for movers to move it and then unpack it?” So now we’re really seeing what else we don’t really need.
Every time I watch one of your videos I love you more and more! You have such a sincere and loving approach, the chemistry between you and Tom is adorable, and I just love your twin and the dynamics you two share. I’m twice widowed at 56, have four grown “children” in their thirties, eight grandkids!!!! and I still watch every one of your videos whether they directly relate to my life, or just because I love hearing your voice, I love your attitude, and I feel like a good friend is with me. I live alone with my fur babies now, so having your company in my day always brightens it! 💐Love you Dawn?💐
I was part of a buy nothing group for awhile but was turned off when after getting persuaded to deliver my stuff to her house, I realized the woman was a hoarder. It made me sick.
I left our buy nothing group after several people never showed up, and also I started realizing the same few people said "interested " to almost everything posted. I only gifted to people that bothered to comment with something nice or why they really wanted the item.
I have posted items one at a time for free on our local NextDoor app, but hadn’t thought to put it all out as a lot. Thanks ! St Vincent de Paul gladly accepts clean coats and winter clothes. I did t think we had any extras but I came up with a bag full.
Loving the buy nothing groups. I watch them for people asking for items, and I’m slowing emptying my house that way. The people are asking, so they want the item, they come and collect etc. One lady had to come back twice due to a miscommunication and she left with full hands of extra things we no longer need. I have also put a box outside with a free sign, whatever was left was obviously trash and that’s where it went!
Love Buy Nothing! Yes, sometimes people don't show up, but that happens. I always put a deadline in the post ("going to Goodwill on Monday") and then offer grace if there's good communication. If you have a lot of stuff to get rid of, I suggest offering it in lots of like items. Anything from a specific "bag of baby books" or a general "box of kitchen miscellaneous" and tell people to take all and regift what they don't want.
I am beyond grateful for your TH-cam channel. I happened upon one of your videos at the beginning of this year and I just couldn't get enough. I binge watched many of your videos and I was hooked on minimalism. Thank you also for recommending Joshua Becker's books. I have read a few of his books and now subscribe to his channel as well. To me, minimalism is almost like an addiction. I'm always looking to see what I can get rid of next. I've lived in my current home for over 30 years and we raised our two daughters here so there was quite an accumulation. I had planned to have a yard sale this past summer. Our town does a "town wide" yard sale and I thought this would be a great time to remove a lot of things from my home. Because of the pandemic I wanted to minimize my contact with other people. Also, I realized that many people were struggling with the loss of their income. Instead of selling things, I set up a 10 x 10 foot pop up canopy and put out my "yard sale" sign. The difference was that I just gave away everything accept for a few select items that my husband wanted to actually sell. Even the sold items were quite a steal. It felt soooo great to see how excited people were to get something for free and nearly everything was gone within a few hours. A few people still wanted to give me some money for the items so I suggested that they make a donation to the charity of their choice. It was the best "yard sale" I ever had! Only a few items were left. I simply loaded them into my car and took them to the Goodwill. Thank you again for all your great ideas! You changed my life for the better. :)
You are SO right about the family getting on board when they see how tidy things are getting. I saved my money for a closet organizer, matching hangers, etc. Then I asked hubby to help put it in. When he saw my decluttered, newly organized closet he was like that looks great! Then he decluttered his closet! It works. 👍👍
We put a box of toys out in front of our house today for FREE and I got so excited when a lady with a van stopped and picked it up. So nice to think she probably has a few kids who'll love those toys. It blessed me so much. Carol
I live on a state route and put a chair and ottoman out at the end of the driveway and didn’t even post about it. Within 5 minutes someone came by with their trailer and took it! It definitely feels good to get rid of stuff so easily and see it put to use.
I have really enjoyed doing that this year too instead of donating to thrift stores. I do usually put up a FB ad saying “free on curb” because we live on a quiet street. The items are always gone so fast!
I had a very similar experience! First I had an ah-ha moment after I read Marie Kondo's book then...I stumbled upon your channel and realized how it's possible to make it work with kids! Life changing! I'm still peeling back all the layers of the onion in my home, but I'm so grateful for the realization that simplifying is possible. Thank you for that!
I remember decluttering an old plastic wall mounted shoe rack, that was in fine condition but was in the way. As I left it in front of our house a lady driving by back up and asked if we're getting rid of it and she took it right then and there. So satisfying. 🙏🏻
I am not alone!! Thank you! I know Dawn's schedule, but I still "hope" to find a new video. It's like visiting with a friend (you've never even met). I so agree L.M. Dyre!
Like Joshua Becker did for you, your channel has been my inspiration to minimalize. I always recommend your TH-cam channel to anyone looking for decluttering advice. Stay awesome Dawn ! (My sisters named Dawn btw!)
I have watched a lot of your videos more than once. You have great ideas. I became a minimalist in July of 2020 after watching one of your videos. Thank you. My father passed away and we are going to sell the house eventually. We four kids got together and wrote down what we wanted from the house. There were only a few things more than one person wanted so we compromised. Although I am a minimalist and I just wanted a few things but when someone else said I would like to have that item. It’s like my mind said if they want that maybe I want that item. It’s funny how our minds work. I got the items I wanted and took them home. I also am giving some things I have to my brother. Stuff in other stuff out. That’s how I think now. I really have to need it to bring it in my home.
You and your family have helped me AND my mother. I've been discussing your videos with mom since my dads death. It has helped her weed through 47 years of marriage, living in the same house. I've been going through my house as well. Thank you! 💜
I absolutely love this. I am on week seven of decluttering. The motivation for me was that I got COVID-19 Angelina’s of 2020 and I had three strokes. The mental clutter of the things in the house just became too much and that was my tipping point. I am almost done and I know that I’m going to end up doing a second round for some of the things that I started in the beginning of my journey I don’t think I will ever turn back to me I was living a couple months ago. Your website and TH-cam channel I have been very helpful and I really appreciate these videos thank you
Hi Dawn! Great video as always. I just wanted to add to your last tip about putting stuff out in front of your house for free...Years ago I was one of those people on the receiving end of this... I was raising 3 small children mostly on my own and did not have a lot of money...others may look at doing this kind of thing as just "dumping" your stuff, but to me, it was one of the greatest forms of generosity. It enabled me to be able to get some things to help provide for my family that we wouldn't have had otherwise. So, to all of those people I say thank you and offer up my deepest gratitude for this act of kindness! Perhaps if people look at it with these eyes, it might make it easier to part with things. I am now in a better place in life, and give back as often as I can. I will never forget how God provided for us through the generosity of others. 💝
Dawn, everything you just said is so true and once you get going it gets easier and easier I heard Joshua Becker one day and it just was eye opening, if I didn’t need it or love it, I donated it, I never had a lot but still kept things we no longer used... minimalism has brought me JOY and I have never been happier. I appreciate what I do have,and want for nothing Love your channel xo
I'm a member of my local Buy Nothing Facebook group, and it works great for getting rid of unused items. We just post a picture of it, people express interest, we choose someone to give it to, message someone our address, and they come get it off our porch. It's a bit more work than just taking it to Goodwill, but I don't have to drive anywhere, and I know it's going to someone who actually wants it. I've gotten a few really great things from that group too!
Thank you Dawn, I really needed this video today. We’ve been in lockdown now since March (in the UK), and I started decluttering. I couldn’t believe the difference to my home and how relaxed I felt. At the weekend we put up our Christmas decorations and all the stuff I’m now having to manage is causing me stress. Tomorrow I’m going to declutter some of the Christmas decorations, and also peel back another layer of the onion and see what else we can manage without. Thank you I feel inspired X
I have 39 years of collecting things. I use a 5 minute time periods. Hard since my husband will go through my purged items. Also we have alot of sentimental items since we lost of son in Iraq and have his medals, flags, etc. that we would never get rid of. Thanks for your videos even though I don't have little kids.
I've been decluttering and going minimal for the past year after discovering I was always feeling too busy or stresses to really enjoy spending time with my young daughter. After this past year I've noticed such a change in my mood and can now enjoy what is most important in life. Thanks so much for your videos! Love the inspiration
Wow, this struck a chord with me when Dawn mentioned it- a fantastic by-product, and now someone else echoes it! Only got one teen left at home and it so pains my heart thinking if only I had got into this sooner! Still, better late than never. So blessed to hear others are well on the journey with much younger children! Blessings!
I'm starting to get burnt out from decluttering because I do it all the time. I think what I need to do is say positive things out loud to myself like, "This is worth it. Every little bit counts. You are a huge help to your husband." ect thank you for sparking that thought!!
I've always donated and never sold anything I've gotten rid of, the thought of going through that process stresses me to the max lol, I just want it out of my house. The benefits of getting it out quickly far out ways the monetary gain of a sale. If it's something quite good I just image the next person being super stoked with the find!
I’ve done several yard sales at home and combined rummage sales with friends at a building we rented. They were all exhausting. Can YOU comment on my question about should we freshly launder clothing we’re donating if nothing is encrusted on it? Like, it’s clean, just not fresh as a daisy. Taking chemo and need to choose my chores wisely. Thank you...
Once in awhile I will look t my possessions and ask myself, " Would I want to pack this if I had to move this month? " Answer: "yes" or "no". Garage sales have never been successful for me; so I will either donate or give or garbage.😁
That is exactly what I have been thinking. With life changes and fast moving world. If I had to move tomorrow what would I really want to take with me .
This just spoke to me. I have 4 kids. And I'm struggling to manage the amount of stuff we have. Going to make my husband watch this tonight. Thank you x
Every time i watch one of your videos I want to run around my house and declutter more. You have changed our family and provided the push I needed to let go of a lot of "stuff" that was only creating stress.
I came from a family who kept everything! We always saved every box for every new purchase just in case we had to return it. I am so thankful to you for your gift to be able to share minimalism in such practical, yet not overwhelming manner. i never could have believed how much peace and satisfaction could come from owning less. Thank you so so much for your time and giftd you have shared. Bless you! You are doing a great work!
When we cleaned out our kitchen we had so many unused appliances as well as a alot of unused "things ". Hubby took everything to charity but he didn't want to donate appliances. So we made a deal, put them on marketplace, if they're not sold and gone in a week they go to charity. All completed in week and he had $40 to put into the family money box.
I have been watching your videos for more than a year .It changed my life .I became more productive.Having less things in my house makes my life easier and spend more time with my family .
I started decluttering about 4 months ago. Slow at first, trued yard sales with sime things, gave stuff to friends & just recent loaded up a van full & took to a donation center. I have a bag full if stuff 2 days latter. The more U get rid of the more I seem to want to get rid of more. Slowly my husband has been coming on board. I feel so much better mentally. Watching your videos & some other peoples videos as so inspired me. THANK YOU.
Oh gosh, I don't have Facebook. I just HAD to step away from it about 6 years ago because I could see that I was letting it take up SO much of my time and the things I was looking at AND posting just weren't genuine anymore. But I stay with TH-cam because I can really choose uplifting people to follow like Dawn!!!! where I can learn, grow, be inspired, have a hearty laugh, and I feel like I'm with friends! I'd really love to join the Better Together group but I'm so worried I don't have the self control to turn away from the not-so-great parts that sucked me in before. ☹ They're sneaky and kinda relentless!
The same thing happened to me! I HAD to get rid of Facebook. It was a huge time waster and I just felt so unfulfilled at night. I only have TH-cam as well. When it comes to following groups on Facebook, I know I have to pass. Facebook is my addiction and I know if I go back, it will be the same as before. I do feel like I miss out sometimes but my mental health is much more important. ❤️
@@ChristConvicted You know what? You are SO right!!! Thanks for the support and encouragement! I have to respect my personal limits. I'll stay right here on TH-cam with Dawn! You have a great day, friend! 😊
Not talking either of you into it, but just did want to say that I'd also been off FB for all of this year until last month when I joined Dawn's group. I found at the upper right corner clicking on the 3 dots there's an option to set to home screen. This put a little app square of the direct link to the group on my phone. So I don't even bother to go into FB and scroll the nonsense anymore. Also, especially if you have a new account without "friends" there's less to look at.
I put a bunch of stuff on our driveway, yard sale style, and put a free sign up at our nearest intersection. It was gone within an hour! A few items that were left I dropped off at the thrift store. Two people took most of the stuff, and it made me happy to know that whether they planned on using it or reselling it for some needed income, that it was being used and out of my house!
A few times a year I go through stuff to lighten the load and always feels great a trash bag always gets something I don't use to make sure it's full bag . I can't get to the point of yours but I most certainly love organization and knowing were it's all at for my small space and that it's being used cause if not it's gone . 650 sq foot is not much space filled with junk but quality piece's is perfect . I have many things on my counter and love that homey feel but it's not a home with kids so I definitely understand your set up and need for ease . Love the videos ! Very helpful for many who struggle with letting go of things .
I love your channel I’m a single mom with 3 daughters going through a divorce . So knowing I’m not going to de clutter in 3 weeks my whole house makes it a relief. I’m not a very organized person but watching your channel motivates me and I have started with my one of my daughters room not done yet though. God bless you and your family! Have a great thanksgiving!
There is a story in “Your Money or Your Life” about a couple who sold off their stuff in a yard sale then put the money in a savings account with the agreement that they would use it to replace an item if they missed it. This can be a good psychological tool for letting go of things if you are struggling with hoarding issues.
I've been praying for God to create a desire in my heart to be a better homemaker, stay at home mom and housewife. A few months ago something clicked! A friend told me about this channel and I started here... so glad I did! We are a blended family of 6 kids so it has been overwhelming. Thanks for these three steps for everyone to be successful through this process!
I feel like I have gotten so creative since minimizing. Everything has many uses now. And I actually know everything I own and where it is so I can solve problems easily. If I don't have anything that will work, my next door neighbor is not a minimalist 🤣
I so appreciate you. Your honesty and helpful advice is wonderful! I can relate to four kids in four years and the “business “ of that time. My four are now 28-30,32,&34. People would say the most hurtful things thinking that our children were accidents - nope, they were/are a great blessing. I use to read every book on home management and homemaking - pre internet. I so wish I had a friend like you to have helped us! God bless you and your family!
Thank you for this! My husband 100% wants to be a minimalist, but I'm always like "But what if I could use it, might wear it, or sell it?" I like the $50 threshold. We have three kids and I would love to have four one day, But the amount of stuff and mess seems overwhelming. I'm going to go get started on the kitchen and toys first. 😊
Its Such A Process...it def Grows!! I've been working on this for 3+ yrs... its been a slowwww start, but getting easier! I got lucky to personally know someone that had lost everything they had...that appreciates everything ive given .... Today i departed a brand new kitchen blender that had been deep in cabinet for over 2 yrs... felt good that the gal i offered it to was soooo happy & had been wanting one!!!
I love your channel! we just started our minimalism journey :) and I also totally agree with a theme you bring up in other videos about minimalism lead you to have better self esteem/confidence. I’m a FTM, so with a new baby (with special needs) and a hubby that works a lot, I would look around at all of the mess and clutter and feel SO STRESSED. I felt like I was a mess, my life was a mess, and my baby was trying to learn and grow in a mess. My brain, thoughts and feelings were totally overstimulated by the clutter! The onion method has been really effective for us and we’ve probably peeled through 50% of our inventory! Looking around now, I feel like I can “manage” like you say and stay on top rather than constantly falling behind and playing catch up!! And my self confidence has benefitted greatly! Thank you Dawn ❤️❤️❤️ It seriously has changed my little family’s life for the better!
I'm one of the people who asked you how to get my husband on board with this. Now I know! I just kept going and a couple of days ago while I was working at getting rid of our odd assortment of crockery, he asked what I was doing. He was thrilled because those piles of plates and bowls etc had been driving him nuts for ages. He pitched in and helped, drove with me to the Op Shop (Australia) and came home happy. We got through the whole kitchen but two drawers! He's on side now and is loving the change - as long as I leave his study alone. It has a door so I'll leave him to his clutter. But somehow I don't think it will stay like that for long. Your videos are changing my/our life! Thank you.❤️
Dawn you are just so inspiring! I love listening to you. The whole down sizing subject doesnt seem so heavy with the way you put it across. Its no big deal, small goals. Thank you!
My messy husband (who has always said he prefers to have clutter!) said yesterday that he would like to have his office cleared of clutter. HOLY COW! We had a good talk about 'stuff', and I suggested scaling down the amount of stuff he has in the office, because he finds it hard to study with the visual noise! Your content has been very helpful for me in determining what I can get rid of. So, thank you! Simpler life FTW!
I am doing the “ set it at the curb” method to get rid of stuff. I don’t like giving to goodwill. It does make me feel good. And I get rid of more this way. Happy Thanksgiving everyone.
@@lisaa3978 It’s not what it started out to be,. It has become an exclusive for profit-big-time-retail business. They dominate the market on donation sites in high end exclusive neighborhoods, with fleets of trucks to distribute the donations to their stores that are just about every town. They have their place, but they’re pretty devastating to small town charities.
Way too convenient. More than half the time I end up dropping off barely used items that folks have left behind in their vacation rentals, there. They are open 9-9, 7 days a week here... whereas other places here have extremely limited days & hours of accepting donations. For lager items, I set them out by road the day before trash pick up & it’s all gone within a couple hours. NPQ (Nonprofit Quarterly) found that less than one-eighth of Goodwill’s profit goes toward its charity work.
I watched your videos for awhile. I moved this year and had so much stuff. I bit the bullet and rented a three yard bin and tossed over 40 years of excess. The first box of junk to hit the bottom of the bin was freeing! Since I rented the bin I had a week to complete my project and it pushed me to work every day. I felt this huge burden lift from my shoulders. Now I will be putting only things that bring me happiness away. Next week I will be finishing and finally enjoying decorating. Thank you for your motivating videos! You two helped me to finally let go. Big happy sigh...
I do the ‘onion method’ also.... I’ve also put stuff out on the curb and then post on FB Marketplace..... THEN, at our house, we do a little guessing game of when it will be gone..... it’s always gone way before the earliest guess 😂..... so fun...... I love my home..... it’s easy peasy to take care of.... and NO STRESS 🎉
I also put larger items on the curb. Nice things go out whenever we decided to part with them, and they are gone within an hour. Junk goes out with the trash, and most of that gets picked through before the garbage worker even comes. My elderly neighbor has been cleaning out her home and setting a table out near the curb with items on it with a free sign. I love that our community is kind enough to offer items to others!
THANK YOU for watching!! We are SO grateful for you!! I think the next video to watch after this one is How to Declutter WITHOUT Making a Mess-- (this works SO well!!) th-cam.com/video/7yQqvQ99MVw/w-d-xo.html Have a good day!! Dawn
I really wish I could get to your stage, but I'm a hoarder so its like a piece of me gets thrown away when things get thrown. Plus I hate to waste anything.
I have M.E and depression etc, thats why it really started.
I'll keep watching and hope for a change in my mindset 🙏
I am having to declutter while a certain hubby is out of the house. He would and does hold onto every thing he has owned for the last 66 years. 🤦♀️
@@mimistans7715 oh dear, he'll know just what's missing 😆
Your hair looks really good pulled up on one side, and that shirt is amazing on you!
I am definitely less stressed with less and when things are organized and clean.
I’ve been doing one room at a time. It’s been such a huge difference! Less time cleaning and more time with my kiddos. When I don’t want to make a trip to goodwill, I’ve been setting it at the curb. We have neighbors who have a lot of kids. They always take everything. Makes me feel good someone else can use it! I want to enjoy the house as it is, take a break and then do more layers. Thank you for everything you do to help us out! It can be overwhelming at first.
Am I the only one that watches Dawn’s videos over and over? It keeps me on track and motivated. Just to keep hearing it and feeding the words to my brain is so helpful.
Nope. And you hear things as you are ready for them. I love rewatching.
Like an old friend.
I’ve just watched this one for probably the 6 time in the last year😆
I find them so motivating 👍
I totally agree with you Lisa S ,I don't watch the same ones but l find that continuous encouragement and reminders do help me keep on track.Every time l watch one of my beloved youtuber reminding me to clean and declutter my home , l am filled up with renewed energy.ln the same way l watch self improvement guru's to keep me motivated in my self care.l benefitted so much from you tube videos that l started to upload my own videos too.
I rewatch to maintain motivation and clear thinking. Plus I'm in a new place mentally each time so I feel like I'm learning more
It happened. The kids are listening. In another room I heard one say to another, “Dawn says if you don’t get rid of it, you’ll just move it from pile to pile.”
So funny 😂
Love that!! 😂
Haha so funny!! That’s awesome!
So cute!!
Awww!!
The more I declutter, the more I want to get rid of. It's so much easier to keep the house clean. Less anxiety and stress now. Thanks for the inspiration.
I think I might have become a tad obessed with decluttering...but I love it.
Absolutely!! I'm so glad to be a part of this great idea. I've been telling my sisters about it & now they're working on becoming minimalists! Thanks so much Dawn & Tom for sharing. Your children are so sweet and respectful. God bless you all. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
I have two kids, HALF, of your kid amount. I'm so glad I found you. I am a budgeter who was about to hire a housekeeper! NOPE! I found YOU instead. Straight from Jesus. Thank you Dawn (and your family, too.)
I'm a house cleaner. Which may or not be the same as what you were looking at hiring. I clean plenty of houses that appear to be minimalist. Cleaning is different than decluttering and tidying, so please don't feel bad about asking for help in whatever form you want it to be 😊
I love how you're just standing in your kitchen with a cup of coffee, makes me feel like I'm just at a girlfriend's house having a chat. Really enjoy your content, minimalism has really made my whole life easier and I get so many great ideas from you and it keeps me motivated and on track :)
Not working for me: i "told" you, all the Time you were talking "put down that cup and speak more feminin, more slowly.."
@@ddd1dorin396 people all have different ways of talking, prosody of speech etc. I am glad people can talk how they talk and if someone doesn't "speak " to me, I have freedom to seek guidance elsewhere. Thankfully, Minimalist Mom's style resonates with a lot of people, including me
Yup, I was thinking "I love you, too, Dawn!" 😆💕
I’ve been decluttering around our house and my family notices it’s a lot cleaner, but they have no idea what things are missing. 😏
Same here! :) Thank you for everything Dawn! You and your family are TRULY an inspiration!
That's too funny, really!
Same!!
Great testimony that we not only don’t need all we have .. we don’t even know we have it
🤭🤫
Our church has done a give away day. We set it up like a garage sale, but don’t sell anything. It is free for our community. Then whatever was left was donated.
I need to get rid of toys, with out feeling guilty.
I have been to one of these, it was really cool! I found a few items--mostly for other people, because I don't NEED anything...but it was fun to look and see people excited to find things😉
Our church did this 2 weeks ago. Giving is good for the soul.
I'll find myself going there looking for treasures, as I am decluttering too...
This is such a good idea!!
Personally, I will forever be a supporter of Goodwill! Their services have blessed my family in immeasurable ways! My adult autistic son worked with a Goodwill job coach for about a year, and she was a FANTASTIC advocate for him, even after she was "officially" off the job with him. He is an employed success story because of her, and I am SOOO grateful!!
The CEO had compensation of $712,000 a year. Pretty good salary for a “non-profit”
That’s fantastic about your son!
@@sassysandie2865 What is the gross revenue of the company, how many employees and locations? CEO is not a Salvation Army officer committed to poverty while serving.
@@carylhalfwassen8555 the CEO of the Salvation Army makes a lot less than the CEO of The Goodwill. I just find it curious.
When I went to Goodwill’s warehouse (in my city) and saw ALL the stuff they receive and how it is maintained, I was dismayed and saddened. I chose to no longer contribute to the MASSIVE amount of stuff they have to deal with. It doesn’t help that people give them JUNK (stuff that should have been put in a trash receptacle.) I now take my items to a thrift store I would personally be willing to shop from; that matters to me. If it is clothing that is not something I feel will easily sell in a thrift store, I take it to an organization in our city called Jesus House; they serve homeless people.
I just love you Dawn! I've been decluttering our home for the past few months. I too have been just putting stuff out on our curb and posting it on FB Marketplace or Craigslist. I had 1 lady that came and got a box of some of my nice work clothes (I'm now a homemaker and don't need so many work outfits, just a few things for church), and I also had some of my son's outgrown clothes and toys. After the lady loaded up the boxes, she stopped at my mailbox...I was concerned as to what she could be doing....she left me a THANK YOU note! Seriously, she told me how she had just gotten a new job and was really needing work clothes and her son was really needing clothes and would love the toys too. It made me cry. #PayItForward
It becomes so much easier to get rid of things I'm not using if it goes to someone who really, really needs it!
you know what is so great about you, it's that you're not the minimalist type everyone thinks is "minimalism"... you have things, plenty of things that bring you joy, you have just forgone the insanity that is abundance. I can't imagine the stress and sadness you had when you were overwhelmed, but you took those lemons and literally made lemonade. you have a successful youtube channel, four happy incredible kids and a husband who takes all things in stride. you truly are an excellent role model on eliminating excess stress while living comfortably.
@TheMinimalMom is the reason I would consider myself a minimalist. She made it look doable and normal
I like how she says: stop where it feels manageable to you.
That’s a great way to find a benchmark without inviting the fear that you’ll end up with nothing or the overwhelm of trying to manage offloading to a deeply minimal place. What’s minimal for me may be differently minimal for you. Fantastic advice. Find your own minimal and adjust it as life moves forwards/as needed
YEs right.
Couldn’t agree more with everything you said about Dawn! She is amazing and I literally watch her for comfort because she makes me feel so hopeful and positive and motivates me as well
I
You have a new subscriber. Family of 8 and I have been a stay at home mom for almost 18 years. I have been in a depression/anxiety rut for years for many years due to loss of one of our children and health problems. It’s so overwhelming to even look at one room, one cabinet, one closet. This video hit me hard, and I actually had to stop for a bit because I couldn’t stop the crying. You’ve explained exactly what I want in life, what I need in life. Especially with children ranging from 17-3. I can’t keep up with everything on my own; and I spent so much time in a deep depression that I didn’t do the best at teaching them ways to stay organized. Now I’m trying to play catch-up and it is not easy. So thank you for breaking it down, into manageable ways to tackle it💜
I hope you’re doing okay- your comment really resonated with me and I remembered some of what that feels like. It can be so hard. So hard.
@D_M: I sincerely hope things improved for you & accept my deepest condolences for the loss of your child. I could never imagine how deep that wound goes, but I can guarantee that time does heal wounds. How much time just depends on each situation. Also, remember you have other children who need you & couldn't be here without you! Prayers & Blessings to you & your family
Much love. I hope you feel you are still on track.
All my love to you. We'd love an update, I know. Even if you haven't started, I'm getting through some of this, too. Beginning to try to teach older children good habits isn't easy! I keep reminding myself I'm not a bad mom if they take care of some things themselves. (Easier said than done.)
❤❤
I used to feel my house needed a “backstage” but now it’s all onstage and anyone can stop in, use our bathroom, have a tour, and it’s fine. Woo Hoo ! That sparks joy ! Thanks Dawn ! I am so thankful Jesus led me to you and your family.
That's awesome! I love this!
Dawn's solution to everything: "Have you tried de-cluttering?" 🤣
I love it because it is so true! 💕
Ha ha ha .. funny
I did the thing where if I didn’t use it in the last year, I pulled it out, put it all in one room and asked my kids to go through it and see if they needed any of it...then I took the clothes to the resale shop and donated the rest. I arranged every room the way I wanted it, then made a pact with myself to put something back as soon as I pulled it out. Everything I want to acquire has to have a place to live or replace something else. We retired and downsized from 2200 to 840 square feet in a lake cabin. We spend MUCH more time outside with the grandkids, walking, kayaking, swimming and fishing. TOTALLY WORTH IT to have less stuff and MORE LIFE! God Bless!
Don't forget animal shelters. They always need old towels, washcloths and blankets.
Great suggestion!!❤️
GREAT SUGGESTION! 👍🏾
And Even 🧸 toys for the dogs 🐕
Thank You, Lori. BLESS YOU for reminding us all to support animal welfare.
Good suggestion :)
I’ve been following a low-buy for almost two months and today I was really tested! I took an Amazon return to Kohl’s and our local store moved the Amazon return counter to the back of the store! I had to walk by cute clothes and I was so close to the seasonal decor but I DID NOT BROWSE! Because I was not there to shop and I don’t need anything. It was tough! But I did it.
Awesome!! Good job!!!
Well done 👍👏👏👏
I can relate! I refuse to use Kohl’s to return amazon stuff for that same reason. Such a smart marketing ploy by Kohl’s!
I went to kohls first time since Covid yesterday. Saw the amazon return desk and was surprised! Had no idea they were taking returns at kohl’s. And YES! I picked up items that were not on my list. 🤦♀️ After this video I’m headed back to Kohl’s return. Did I need my extras, heck no! Feels good!! ❣️
I take my Amazon returns to Whole Foods...no temptation there 😜.
Could we get by without it? Yessss! I don't know why, but this question really resonates w me.
Yes! I am trying to convince my husband that we can get rid of our plastic dish rack that sits in the sink. It takes up space, it's ugly, it's hard to clean and I honestly got by my whole life before that just piling clean dishes straight in the sink to dry plus we have a mat that folds away nicely for beside the sink.
The one she said that always resonates in my head is "do I really want to touch/move/deal with this again?" because I'm terrible about putting something somewhere to deal with later.... and then having an overwhelming pile of "do laters!" She's so great at knowing what we're thinking as we deal with this stuff!
This is a great question to ask yourself. I like this.
and also "are we using this much?" I have many things that I received as gifts from family over the years (mostly kitchen or houseware related) that I don't need or use much, and either re-gift to family and friends or drop off at the thrift stores.
Agreed. I have such a hard time getting rid of things, I'm not entirely sure why, probably learned behaviors. I always go through with the, "Might I use this some day?" mindset.
This question, "Could I get by without it?" gives me an approach that would help SO. MUCH. We are preparing to buy our first house within the next 3 months, I would like to not take all the clutter and mess right along with it.
Your suggestion to set a $50 threshold for selling vs. donating is exactly what I needed to hear today. I have been saving some items to sell, but just can't seem to move.them out of the house. I don't want to wait on them anymore. Thank you for the permission! I needed it!
Interesting about the tidying advice because I feel like I’m wasting my time tidying all the time when I could be decluttering stuff that I would never then have to tidy again
If you go through her videos there are so many on how to go through each room etc!
If you declutter your home/space first, you'll only be tidying the things you use and need consistently. There are always going to be "things" that you need and will have to tidy regularly. I think what she means by tidying to get people on board, is, as you declutter the more common spaces, such as bathrooms or the kitchen, and keep them tidy, they will begin to warm up to the idea in more intimate spaces like bedrooms, or the garage (for guys). Because if you did a bunch of decluttering but never tidy, they wont see the point because it wont look any better or feel any less stressful.
Yes!
I follow flylady and my house is always tidy. Its a matter of creating good habits. Good luck and happy decluttering.
:- )
I’ve put stuff out for free and it my neighbors grab it instantly. The family across the street from us has 7 children, and has been blessed with a bookshelf, matching dressers, and empty storage tubs. The saying is true..one persons junk is another’s treasure. Thank you for your channel.
"Less inventory to manage" love it!!
Yes! ❤
So true!😉
I am a huge fan of the Buy Nothing Project. The idea is that it’s a hyper local gift economy. You’re literally giving gifts to your community. It helps me to know that my stuff is blessing someone else. I gave a bedding set to a mom who was so grateful because she “never got nice things for herself.” I’ve had people come empty my garage of cardboard boxes so they could use it to mulch their garden. Good stuff doesn’t stop being good just because it no longer has a place in your life. I like that my things go on doing good, bringing joy, and enriching my community.
Truthfully, I let your videos play in the background while I am purging closets, pantries, garage shelves, etc. it’s really helping! ❤️💪🏼‼️
I'm a 20 year old university student, I don't have a husband a house, or children, but you are so CUTE and I love your energy and kindness, instant subscriber HAHAHA
Yeah but you are 10 steps ahead of all of us bc you are arming yourself with all this valuable knowledge on the forefront, rather than looking back at all your junk you and your kids/husband/etc spent decades accumulating, now trying to paw through it and unload it. Bravo to you!!
After university, having my first job, I started gathering more and more stuff. Money was no longer an issue, the idea I needed X, Y, Z for whatever reason (ads, societal pressure, colleagues etc) made that our last move was a mess. You are in a fantastic position to watch this now and have a free life.
Dawn, we had my brother and his family over for Thanksgiving this past week, and the kids all wanted to play hide-and-seek (adults included). Previously I probably would have panicked thinking of areas being discovered that were not be "guest ready" (i.e. closets). But because I have been following this journey of minimalism for about six months, I didn't have to worry about them hiding in closets, or even the garage! It's amazing how much more relaxed having people over can be when you literally don't care which drawer or cabinet they open, because they are all in decent order.
My house is not perfect, and I still have more to minimize, but getting to this stage is encouraging! Thank you for the inspiration, tips, tricks, and advice to get to this point!
Goals!!
I’m seriously on a MISSION to get my house in order !
1. You look exceptional. 2. Thank you for posting these. I’m sure because you pretty much have this lifestyle down, it could seem repetitive for you, but these videos are treasures, so thank you!!
Thank you Stacie!! I really appreciate this!!
I love this! We, too, have 4 young kids and I’ve lived through the very stressful stage of feeling like I’m drowning in all the STUFF. Now that we’ve began peeling our onion, our house is starting to feel much more manageable. We aren’t minimalists by any means, but everything has a home and that is a beautiful feeling!
I live in a City where there is a whole ECONOMY around sidewalk freebies. It was awesome to find things, and it's been awesome to get rid of things!
I am crying at this video 😭. I am a work at home mom of 3 under 5 and I can totally relate to this! I have found your videos have helped me minimize and have time to be a good mom, creator, and housekeeper 💗🙏🙏
I live in a cold climate and have found a box of hats, gloves, mittens and scarves. I also have more coats than I need. A family friend suggested giving them to schools or homeless shelters. Just a thought for this 2020 winter.
Great idea! Our town has a free store that anyone can drop off clean useful items. It's a great resource for all!
When I was in Ohio visiting my son he cleaned out his clothes and kitchen “stuff” that he didn’t need or use! What a difference it made. Now he has access to laundry room , cabinets and closets and can find what he “needs”! Gave it all to a men’s homeless shelter!
I live in Texas, and an organization called Texas Paralyzed Veterans does a donation pickup once per month and all I have to do is put it out on my front porch on the designated pickup day for my area. Besides the convenience and that I value their cause, another benefit is that it gives me a deadline each month for cleaning out a particular area of my house. If I don’t have anything to donate in a given month, then I just ignore the notification for that month.
What a fabulous idea.
I have that too! So helpful!
I also live in Texas! How do I contact them?
Vietnam Veterans of America : every two weeks I go online and schedule a pick up , forces me to have my box(es), bags on the front porch by 8:00am! They take anywhere from 1-25 boxes bags for pickup , you can donate your automobile also and they live a tax receipt, though not too helpful these days!
I realized last week...I have no attachment to any " thing".
I have so much more time to volunteer & go to the gym....
Yes!!!
Same here! I don’t like crafts, I would rather workout then do a craft.
Been working on that 1st layer of the onion since before you had 20K subscribers. Today, today! My husband says to me how nice and organized our towel cupboard looks
Ha! I just got rid of all but 6 towels... not so much organized as not packed full! He was able to put clean towels away with one hand. Yay! Thanks for keeping me going Dawn. Happy holidays!
I've decided to cancel my membership to the quilt guild. There are several reasons: 1) I've felt stressed because I wasn't creating/donating enough items 2) I have several quilting projects I want to complete/make for my home or family 3) I deceived myself by thinking I'd cut down on my hoarding/spending because the many free items I brought home were for a good cause but didn't use. 4) My dad recently passed away and I've reconnected with my family. I want to invest in myself and people and let go of unneeded items and activities. Thank you for your earnest exhortation to declutter things from the past in order to live in the present.
I read that as "guilt" guild lol!
"less inventory to manage" - music to my ears - key to serenity. Thanks, Dawn.
Love this!!! We just cleared out our "shame" pile in the basement. It feels so good! The house feels lighter and better!
Lol, “shame pile.” That is so relatable-I have one of those too!
Sunday past I dug out about 30 eyemakeup pallets ( I know, sheesh!) that I had in my collection and I wanted to get rid of them but the guilt from all the money I spent on them kept them in my home too long. I layed those palettes out on a large table , took a picture and put it on our Next Door Ap as Free. I had 15 ladies wanting them. so I took the time to PM each one and asked them pick two that they wanted. It took some work...but all of them were gone in 24 hours. I felt sooo good about it because makeup is expensive and these were very lightly used and a little spritz of alcohol santized them just fine. It made my week right off the bat! And the ladies that took home pallettes were just so grateful :) I really didn't know if ANYONE would want used makeup...but I was taken by surprise with the response. ETA: I should mentioned we did all porch pickups.
That must have felt so good! I gave all my old nail polish and some facial masks to a shelter for pregnant homeless women, and the little old lady who runs the place was very happy to get them!
Every time you use those open shelves as a back drop I love them more.
I like the open shelves too. Underneath the shelves I see something that almost looks like little icicles. What is that? Little lights?
@@melindawood3644 I think its hooks to hang coffee cups
@@d.c.1851 Thanks! That sounds good to me! ☕☕
"Get it out of the house so I don't have to manage it anymore" my mantra right there!
I’ve been participating in a local children’s consignment sale. You can opt to donate your unsold items so they don’t return to your house. What I loved is I found out they let foster parents go through those unsold items!!!! It blesses me to know that they go to a good cause.
Yes yes yes to getting rid of more and more so you can live more and more.
“You do you!” That’s the key! Don’t frustrate yourself by putting you in someone else’s mold!
Thank you for all your encouragement, Dawn!
I definitely feel like the more I get rid of, the more I want to. I recently felt like we had gotten to a pretty decent place but that it still felt like there was too much stuff, but I couldn’t necessarily put my finger on what else to get rid of. And then we suddenly decided to sell our house and buy something else.
We found a too-good-to-pass-up home and went from considering selling to in contract on a new house and whipping our house into show-worthy in a matter of a week. 😂 I don’t know if we could have done it without minimalism and now that we’re packing we’re like “do I realllly want to pay for a box and packing materials for this and pack it and pay for movers to move it and then unpack it?” So now we’re really seeing what else we don’t really need.
I love how she mentions "impulse buying" and the screen pans around Target 🤣 yep, you got me
Every time I watch one of your videos I love you more and more! You have such a sincere and loving approach, the chemistry between you and Tom is adorable, and I just love your twin and the dynamics you two share. I’m twice widowed at 56, have four grown “children” in their thirties, eight grandkids!!!! and I still watch every one of your videos whether they directly relate to my life, or just because I love hearing your voice, I love your attitude, and I feel like a good friend is with me. I live alone with my fur babies now, so having your company in my day always brightens it!
💐Love you Dawn?💐
Most towns/cities have a Buy Nothing group and it is so easy to get things out of your house and into someone elses hands.
I was part of a buy nothing group for awhile but was turned off when after getting persuaded to deliver my stuff to her house, I realized the woman was a hoarder. It made me sick.
I left our buy nothing group after several people never showed up, and also I started realizing the same few people said "interested " to almost everything posted. I only gifted to people that bothered to comment with something nice or why they really wanted the item.
I have posted items one at a time for free on our local NextDoor app, but hadn’t thought to put it all out as a lot. Thanks !
St Vincent de Paul gladly accepts clean coats and winter clothes. I did t think we had any extras but I came up with a bag full.
Loving the buy nothing groups. I watch them for people asking for items, and I’m slowing emptying my house that way. The people are asking, so they want the item, they come and collect etc. One lady had to come back twice due to a miscommunication and she left with full hands of extra things we no longer need. I have also put a box outside with a free sign, whatever was left was obviously trash and that’s where it went!
Love Buy Nothing! Yes, sometimes people don't show up, but that happens. I always put a deadline in the post ("going to Goodwill on Monday") and then offer grace if there's good communication. If you have a lot of stuff to get rid of, I suggest offering it in lots of like items. Anything from a specific "bag of baby books" or a general "box of kitchen miscellaneous" and tell people to take all and regift what they don't want.
I am beyond grateful for your TH-cam channel. I happened upon one of your videos at the beginning of this year and I just couldn't get enough. I binge watched many of your videos and I was hooked on minimalism. Thank you also for recommending Joshua Becker's books. I have read a few of his books and now subscribe to his channel as well. To me, minimalism is almost like an addiction. I'm always looking to see what I can get rid of next. I've lived in my current home for over 30 years and we raised our two daughters here so there was quite an accumulation. I had planned to have a yard sale this past summer. Our town does a "town wide" yard sale and I thought this would be a great time to remove a lot of things from my home. Because of the pandemic I wanted to minimize my contact with other people. Also, I realized that many people were struggling with the loss of their income. Instead of selling things, I set up a 10 x 10 foot pop up canopy and put out my "yard sale" sign. The difference was that I just gave away everything accept for a few select items that my husband wanted to actually sell. Even the sold items were quite a steal. It felt soooo great to see how excited people were to get something for free and nearly everything was gone within a few hours. A few people still wanted to give me some money for the items so I suggested that they make a donation to the charity of their choice. It was the best "yard sale" I ever had! Only a few items were left. I simply loaded them into my car and took them to the Goodwill. Thank you again for all your great ideas! You changed my life for the better. :)
You are SO right about the family getting on board when they see how tidy things are getting. I saved my money for a closet organizer, matching hangers, etc. Then I asked hubby to help put it in. When he saw my decluttered, newly organized closet he was like that looks great! Then he decluttered his closet! It works. 👍👍
We put a box of toys out in front of our house today for FREE and I got so excited when a lady with a van stopped and picked it up. So nice to think she probably has a few kids who'll love those toys. It blessed me so much.
Carol
I live on a state route and put a chair and ottoman out at the end of the driveway and didn’t even post about it. Within 5 minutes someone came by with their trailer and took it! It definitely feels good to get rid of stuff so easily and see it put to use.
I live in sydney australia and we put anythibg out and it is gone in half an hr. I put a sign on things saying pls take
I have really enjoyed doing that this year too instead of donating to thrift stores. I do usually put up a FB ad saying “free on curb” because we live on a quiet street. The items are always gone so fast!
I had a very similar experience! First I had an ah-ha moment after I read Marie Kondo's book then...I stumbled upon your channel and realized how it's possible to make it work with kids! Life changing! I'm still peeling back all the layers of the onion in my home, but I'm so grateful for the realization that simplifying is possible. Thank you for that!
Love how talking about minimalism sparks so much joy for you 🤩
I remember decluttering an old plastic wall mounted shoe rack, that was in fine condition but was in the way. As I left it in front of our house a lady driving by back up and asked if we're getting rid of it and she took it right then and there. So satisfying. 🙏🏻
It's kinda disappointing to get to the end of the day and realize, I already watched your video.
I am not alone!! Thank you! I know Dawn's schedule, but I still "hope" to find a new video. It's like visiting with a friend (you've never even met). I so agree L.M. Dyre!
I just watched the video again. Worth the second pass. 💐thanks Dawn.
Haha, same!!!
Me too!
Yep.... :- )
Like Joshua Becker did for you, your channel has been my inspiration to minimalize. I always recommend your TH-cam channel to anyone looking for decluttering advice.
Stay awesome Dawn ! (My sisters named Dawn btw!)
You have taught me how to be free from attachment to stuff, and I will forever be grateful! Less inventory and more living! Thank you for all you do!
I have watched a lot of your videos more than once. You have great ideas. I became a minimalist in July of 2020 after watching one of your videos. Thank you. My father passed away and we are going to sell the house eventually. We four kids got together and wrote down what we wanted from the house. There were only a few things more than one person wanted so we compromised. Although I am a minimalist and I just wanted a few things but when someone else said I would like to have that item. It’s like my mind said if they want that maybe I want that item. It’s funny how our minds work. I got the items I wanted and took them home. I also am giving some things I have to my brother. Stuff in other stuff out. That’s how I think now. I really have to need it to bring it in my home.
Could i get by without it?! Now i know the next stage for me - thank you again Dawn! God bless from England🏴
You and your family have helped me AND my mother. I've been discussing your videos with mom since my dads death. It has helped her weed through 47 years of marriage, living in the same house. I've been going through my house as well. Thank you! 💜
This is the BEST video I have ever seen about real life minimalism (and I’ve watched a lot). Thank you
I am in the process of minimizing and I have four kids. They all all home today and it is much easier to keep things tidy with less stuff
I absolutely love this. I am on week seven of decluttering. The motivation for me was that I got COVID-19 Angelina’s of 2020 and I had three strokes. The mental clutter of the things in the house just became too much and that was my tipping point. I am almost done and I know that I’m going to end up doing a second round for some of the things that I started in the beginning of my journey I don’t think I will ever turn back to me I was living a couple months ago. Your website and TH-cam channel I have been very helpful and I really appreciate these videos thank you
KUDOS to you SURVIVOR 👏🏽 🙌🏾 Prayerfully, you're recovering completely & enjoying the fact that you're still here living
Hi Dawn! Great video as always. I just wanted to add to your last tip about putting stuff out in front of your house for free...Years ago I was one of those people on the receiving end of this... I was raising 3 small children mostly on my own and did not have a lot of money...others may look at doing this kind of thing as just "dumping" your stuff, but to me, it was one of the greatest forms of generosity. It enabled me to be able to get some things to help provide for my family that we wouldn't have had otherwise. So, to all of those people I say thank you and offer up my deepest gratitude for this act of kindness! Perhaps if people look at it with these eyes, it might make it easier to part with things. I am now in a better place in life, and give back as often as I can. I will never forget how God provided for us through the generosity of others. 💝
Dawn, everything you just said is so true and once you get going it gets easier and easier
I heard Joshua Becker one day and it just was eye opening, if I didn’t need it or love it, I donated it, I never had a lot but still kept things we no longer used... minimalism has brought me JOY and I have never been happier. I appreciate what I do have,and want for nothing
Love your channel xo
I'm a member of my local Buy Nothing Facebook group, and it works great for getting rid of unused items. We just post a picture of it, people express interest, we choose someone to give it to, message someone our address, and they come get it off our porch. It's a bit more work than just taking it to Goodwill, but I don't have to drive anywhere, and I know it's going to someone who actually wants it. I've gotten a few really great things from that group too!
Thank you Dawn, I really needed this video today. We’ve been in lockdown now since March (in the UK), and I started decluttering. I couldn’t believe the difference to my home and how relaxed I felt. At the weekend we put up our Christmas decorations and all the stuff I’m now having to manage is causing me stress. Tomorrow I’m going to declutter some of the Christmas decorations, and also peel back another layer of the onion and see what else we can manage without. Thank you I feel inspired X
I have 39 years of collecting things. I use a 5 minute time periods. Hard since my husband will go through my purged items. Also we have alot of sentimental items since we lost of son in Iraq and have his medals, flags, etc. that we would never get rid of. Thanks for your videos even though I don't have little kids.
I've been decluttering and going minimal for the past year after discovering I was always feeling too busy or stresses to really enjoy spending time with my young daughter. After this past year I've noticed such a change in my mood and can now enjoy what is most important in life. Thanks so much for your videos! Love the inspiration
Wow, this struck a chord with me when Dawn mentioned it- a fantastic by-product, and now someone else echoes it! Only got one teen left at home and it so pains my heart thinking if only I had got into this sooner! Still, better late than never. So blessed to hear others are well on the journey with much younger children! Blessings!
I'm starting to get burnt out from decluttering because I do it all the time. I think what I need to do is say positive things out loud to myself like, "This is worth it. Every little bit counts. You are a huge help to your husband." ect thank you for sparking that thought!!
I've always donated and never sold anything I've gotten rid of, the thought of going through that process stresses me to the max lol, I just want it out of my house. The benefits of getting it out quickly far out ways the monetary gain of a sale. If it's something quite good I just image the next person being super stoked with the find!
Ditto!
I’ve done several yard sales at home and combined rummage sales with friends at a building we rented. They were all exhausting. Can YOU comment on my question about should we freshly launder clothing we’re donating if nothing is encrusted on it? Like, it’s clean, just not fresh as a daisy. Taking chemo and need to choose my chores wisely. Thank you...
@@jewelelaine6866 I personally don't usually launder clothes I am donating. Hope that helps.
Totally agree! I just wish my husband did, too.... :- )
Once in awhile I will look t my possessions and ask myself, " Would I want to pack this if I had to move this month? " Answer: "yes" or "no". Garage sales have never been successful for me; so I will either donate or give or garbage.😁
That is exactly what I have been thinking. With life changes and fast moving world. If I had to move tomorrow what would I really want to take with me .
Such a good question to ask. I have started decluttering and only moved into my home 3 months ago and now I'm thinking "why did I even bring this?"
Ohh good question!
I AM moving this month. Loved this video, just in time to pack things up.
That’s what I do too!
This just spoke to me. I have 4 kids. And I'm struggling to manage the amount of stuff we have. Going to make my husband watch this tonight. Thank you x
Every time i watch one of your videos I want to run around my house and declutter more. You have changed our family and provided the push I needed to let go of a lot of "stuff" that was only creating stress.
I came from a family who kept everything! We always saved every box for every new purchase just in case we had to return it. I am so thankful to you for your gift to be able to share minimalism in such practical, yet not overwhelming manner. i never could have believed how much peace and satisfaction could come from owning less. Thank you so so much for your time and giftd you have shared. Bless you! You are doing a great work!
I love the idea of the 15 min warrior! It truly helps to not get overwhelmed.
When we cleaned out our kitchen we had so many unused appliances as well as a alot of unused "things ". Hubby took everything to charity but he didn't want to donate appliances. So we made a deal, put them on marketplace, if they're not sold and gone in a week they go to charity. All completed in week and he had $40 to put into the family money box.
I donated all my books to the library. 📚 📖
Schools love them too. Age appropriate for Elementary Middle and High School. That's where we donated ours. Awesome job!
We did that too, and our cd's and DVD's, so if we wanted to use them again, we can!
10 boxes of books and counting are ready to go to my public library this week. I've kept just a few favorites and reference books. Feels great!
I have been watching your videos for more than a year .It changed my life .I became more productive.Having less things in my house makes my life easier and spend more time with my family .
I gave mine to Goodwill too. They help employ the unemployable or those that need help transitioning back due to a hard life decisions.
I started decluttering about 4 months ago. Slow at first, trued yard sales with sime things, gave stuff to friends & just recent loaded up a van full & took to a donation center. I have a bag full if stuff 2 days latter. The more U get rid of the more I seem to want to get rid of more. Slowly my husband has been coming on board. I feel so much better mentally. Watching your videos & some other peoples videos as so inspired me. THANK YOU.
Oh gosh, I don't have Facebook. I just HAD to step away from it about 6 years ago because I could see that I was letting it take up SO much of my time and the things I was looking at AND posting just weren't genuine anymore. But I stay with TH-cam because I can really choose uplifting people to follow like Dawn!!!! where I can learn, grow, be inspired, have a hearty laugh, and I feel like I'm with friends! I'd really love to join the Better Together group but I'm so worried I don't have the self control to turn away from the not-so-great parts that sucked me in before. ☹ They're sneaky and kinda relentless!
The same thing happened to me! I HAD to get rid of Facebook. It was a huge time waster and I just felt so unfulfilled at night. I only have TH-cam as well.
When it comes to following groups on Facebook, I know I have to pass. Facebook is my addiction and I know if I go back, it will be the same as before. I do feel like I miss out sometimes but my mental health is much more important. ❤️
@@ChristConvicted You know what? You are SO right!!! Thanks for the support and encouragement! I have to respect my personal limits. I'll stay right here on TH-cam with Dawn! You have a great day, friend! 😊
Not talking either of you into it, but just did want to say that I'd also been off FB for all of this year until last month when I joined Dawn's group. I found at the upper right corner clicking on the 3 dots there's an option to set to home screen. This put a little app square of the direct link to the group on my phone. So I don't even bother to go into FB and scroll the nonsense anymore. Also, especially if you have a new account without "friends" there's less to look at.
@@jennylhenry78 Hey, that's cool! Good to know-- thanks!
Same here. Just deleted fb too. But I didn’t like the agenda they were pushing. Love people on TH-cam like dawn!
I put a bunch of stuff on our driveway, yard sale style, and put a free sign up at our nearest intersection. It was gone within an hour! A few items that were left I dropped off at the thrift store. Two people took most of the stuff, and it made me happy to know that whether they planned on using it or reselling it for some needed income, that it was being used and out of my house!
A few times a year I go through stuff to lighten the load and always feels great a trash bag always gets something I don't use to make sure it's full bag . I can't get to the point of yours but I most certainly love organization and knowing were it's all at for my small space and that it's being used cause if not it's gone . 650 sq foot is not much space filled with junk but quality piece's is perfect . I have many things on my counter and love that homey feel but it's not a home with kids so I definitely understand your set up and need for ease . Love the videos ! Very helpful for many who struggle with letting go of things .
I love your channel I’m a single mom with 3 daughters going through a divorce . So knowing I’m not going to de clutter in 3 weeks my whole house makes it a relief. I’m not a very organized person but watching your channel motivates me and I have started with my one of my daughters room not done yet though. God bless you and your family! Have a great thanksgiving!
There is a story in “Your Money or Your Life” about a couple who sold off their stuff in a yard sale then put the money in a savings account with the agreement that they would use it to replace an item if they missed it. This can be a good psychological tool for letting go of things if you are struggling with hoarding issues.
I've been praying for God to create a desire in my heart to be a better homemaker, stay at home mom and housewife. A few months ago something clicked! A friend told me about this channel and I started here... so glad I did! We are a blended family of 6 kids so it has been overwhelming. Thanks for these three steps for everyone to be successful through this process!
I feel like I have gotten so creative since minimizing. Everything has many uses now. And I actually know everything I own and where it is so I can solve problems easily. If I don't have anything that will work, my next door neighbor is not a minimalist 🤣
I so appreciate you. Your honesty and helpful advice is wonderful! I can relate to four kids in four years and the “business “ of that time. My four are now 28-30,32,&34. People would say the most hurtful things thinking that our children were accidents - nope, they were/are a great blessing. I use to read every book on home management and homemaking - pre internet. I so wish I had a friend like you to have helped us! God bless you and your family!
Thank you for this! My husband 100% wants to be a minimalist, but I'm always like "But what if I could use it, might wear it, or sell it?" I like the $50 threshold. We have three kids and I would love to have four one day, But the amount of stuff and mess seems overwhelming. I'm going to go get started on the kitchen and toys first. 😊
You won't regret it, I promise!!! ❤️
@@notavailable5911 Thank you!
Its Such A Process...it def Grows!! I've been working on this for 3+ yrs... its been a slowwww start, but getting easier!
I got lucky to personally know someone that had lost everything they had...that appreciates everything ive given ....
Today i departed a brand new kitchen blender that had been deep in cabinet for over 2 yrs... felt good that the gal i offered it to was soooo happy & had been wanting one!!!
I love your channel! we just started our minimalism journey :) and I also totally agree with a theme you bring up in other videos about minimalism lead you to have better self esteem/confidence. I’m a FTM, so with a new baby (with special needs) and a hubby that works a lot, I would look around at all of the mess and clutter and feel SO STRESSED. I felt like I was a mess, my life was a mess, and my baby was trying to learn and grow in a mess. My brain, thoughts and feelings were totally overstimulated by the clutter!
The onion method has been really effective for us and we’ve probably peeled through 50% of our inventory!
Looking around now, I feel like I can “manage” like you say and stay on top rather than constantly falling behind and playing catch up!! And my self confidence has benefitted greatly!
Thank you Dawn ❤️❤️❤️ It seriously has changed my little family’s life for the better!
I'm one of the people who asked you how to get my husband on board with this. Now I know! I just kept going and a couple of days ago while I was working at getting rid of our odd assortment of crockery, he asked what I was doing. He was thrilled because those piles of plates and bowls etc had been driving him nuts for ages. He pitched in and helped, drove with me to the Op Shop (Australia) and came home happy. We got through the whole kitchen but two drawers! He's on side now and is loving the change - as long as I leave his study alone. It has a door so I'll leave him to his clutter. But somehow I don't think it will stay like that for long. Your videos are changing my/our life! Thank you.❤️
Dawn you are just so inspiring! I love listening to you. The whole down sizing subject doesnt seem so heavy with the way you put it across. Its no big deal, small goals. Thank you!
My messy husband (who has always said he prefers to have clutter!) said yesterday that he would like to have his office cleared of clutter. HOLY COW! We had a good talk about 'stuff', and I suggested scaling down the amount of stuff he has in the office, because he finds it hard to study with the visual noise! Your content has been very helpful for me in determining what I can get rid of. So, thank you! Simpler life FTW!
I am doing the “ set it at the curb” method to get rid of stuff. I don’t like giving to goodwill. It does make me feel good. And I get rid of more this way. Happy Thanksgiving everyone.
Happy Thanksgiving
@@lisaa3978 It’s not what it started out to be,. It has become an exclusive for profit-big-time-retail business. They dominate the market on donation sites in high end exclusive neighborhoods, with fleets of trucks to distribute the donations to their stores that are just about every town. They have their place, but they’re pretty devastating to small town charities.
Way too convenient. More than half the time I end up dropping off barely used items that folks have left behind in their vacation rentals, there. They are open 9-9, 7 days a week here... whereas other places here have extremely limited days & hours of accepting donations. For lager items, I set them out by road the day before trash pick up & it’s all gone within a couple hours.
NPQ (Nonprofit Quarterly) found that less than one-eighth of Goodwill’s profit goes toward its charity work.
Plus their CEO makes over $700,000
I watched your videos for awhile. I moved this year and had so much stuff. I bit the bullet and rented a three yard bin and tossed over 40 years of excess. The first box of junk to hit the bottom of the bin was freeing! Since I rented the bin I had a week to complete my project and it pushed me to work every day. I felt this huge burden lift from my shoulders. Now I will be putting only things that bring me happiness away. Next week I will be finishing and finally enjoying decorating. Thank you for your motivating videos! You two helped me to finally let go. Big happy sigh...
I do the ‘onion method’ also.... I’ve also put stuff out on the curb and then post on FB Marketplace..... THEN, at our house, we do a little guessing game of when it will be gone..... it’s always gone way before the earliest guess 😂..... so fun...... I love my home..... it’s easy peasy to take care of.... and NO STRESS 🎉
I also put larger items on the curb. Nice things go out whenever we decided to part with them, and they are gone within an hour. Junk goes out with the trash, and most of that gets picked through before the garbage worker even comes.
My elderly neighbor has been cleaning out her home and setting a table out near the curb with items on it with a free sign. I love that our community is kind enough to offer items to others!