The most amazing thing happened to me yesterday. I decided to get rid of my camera, hp all in one, crafting supplies, thousands of dollars. I wanted to donate to a school. I searched, posted on next door, couldn't find a school to take. Went go goodwill. Looked at the lady in front of me. Yep! A teacher! And in charge of yearbook!they have to buy their own supplies! She showed me pics of her kids, class...meant to be! God is good! I was so happy I cried! It was time to let go and so glad it went where needed.
That is a great ending. I used to be a teacher's aide, and the amt of their own money they have to spend is shameful. I am currently doing my craft supplies. I feel bad about the $ wasted on my fantasy self that crafts like Martha Stewart. The real me doesn't have the patience. I am going to use your story as inspiration and believe that when I let it go, it will arrive at the perfect place. Thanks.
I love the idea of things in your house being "employees". You can think through things like "what did I hire this thing to do?" "if I were to evaluate its performance how is it doing?". Also the shift of thinking about your energy, space, time, and stress as the employee's "payment" and whether it's worth what you are paying.
I agree! I had never thought of my items as employees before. Right away, I thought of two spatulas in my kitchen drawer that are rarely used. They’re cute, but useless employees! They’re getting fired today! 😂
@@ckee8437 I do that, too. Especially rarely used large items I check how much space that item needs and calculate how much rent that is - makes it really easy to get rid of things, even when it was on the pricey side because rent adds up fast.
@@dianeyoung8068 But some employees will be happier in a new place of employment where they can finally work for their pay instead of sitting in a cubicle/cupboard doing nothing! Or again, think about toy story where either he could remain as a toy getting played with vs staying in a box in pristine unused condition.
The dryer was my Mom's favorite stuffing place when she found out surprise guests would be arriving soon. It was amazing how much random stuff She could pack in there. Unfortunately we only had one dryer, so it all had to come out as soon as guests left so we could wash and dry clothes. Me: "MOM, where are my shoes and my purse, they were in the livingroom?" Mom: "Check the dryer." ... My childhood was interesting.
That is a great story....smart Mom. Mine was the closet, but when people came to visit and see my home....I showed them the closet!!!! Forgot the stuff was there!
I told my husband that I needed some cabinets above my washer and dryer. I went in and decluttered the shelf that I have there. What did I find after I decluttered? A half empty shelf. I opted for pretty wallpaper instead. My husband was so relieved that he went with me to buy the wallpaper. He even spotted me while I climbed up on the washer and dryer. Thank you for all your declutter facts. We saved a bunch!
I feel like this video was strategically posted just 2 days before Prime Day... Now we are all rethinking our Amazon carts and fake "savings" 😂 This video is gold.
Decluttering, for me, has been a stress relief and a natural high. Every time my husband and I get rid of something that we have had forever, I am so happy. We live in a small home. Recently, I cleaned out my shed, and I am so happy. We have no garage, so we have a ways to go on the other shed, but it gives me something to look forward to. It is actually more fun to get rid of things than to buy new things!
Here in the U.S. I believe we have a conflict between a desire for a simpler life (for many people anyway) and a national economy based on excessive consumerism. I have no clue how that can be reconciled, lol, but it’s not going to improve until we do. Loved this video, thanks for sharing. Now I’m going to go get rid of a bunch of spare parts. 🤣🤣🤣
I was raised for several of my informative years by a woman who had the "just in case" mentality. As an adult I've struggled with clutter. It's caused anxiety and depression. I recently had a baby and knew things had to change because I wanted to set a better example for him. So much stuff had left my home in the last few weeks. Things I've held on to years. My diet has changed and I'm eating at home. For the first time in a long time I'm feeling better. Even my husband has started suddenly doing random chores. It's like I got the ball rolling and it had a ripple effect throughout my life.
I've had this weird phenomenon where before covid I was very minimal and had few things. During covid that sparseness actually started to give me some anxiety and now I'm much more cluttery. Not to the point of it being bad or anything, just very different from how I was before. I also keep spares of like everything important whereas before I just had one and relied on what I thought was the fact I could just run out and pick up a replacement whenever. I just don't take that for granted anymore.
I just spent two weeks with COVID. I started clearing out a lot of my stuff. I think part of it was that I had more craft supplies and other stuff that I had just in case that I would die before I could use it all. It made me so happy to clear out drawers but it is hardly noticeable. I think this will be once a week or even more often looking for things to get out of my space.
Completely agree. I never noticed that I stress eat until COVID came and I was forced to see myself differently. I hope you are able to feel more comfortable at home with doubles of things. I was never one of those bulk buyers during COVID or anything but I feel insecure without backup food. I have a few weeks worth of cans/noodles/rice etc to keep me from getting too uneasy
@@terrisaunders7036 I found myself without a lot of essential supplies when Covid hit. I wasn’t one to store certain things like food, cleaning supplies, and paper goods. But the couple of weeks leading up to Covid I was very busy getting ready for my then turning 7 year old’s “Proper Princess Tea Birthday Party” as she called it. I was making everything homemade because one of her friends has food allergies and I didn’t want anyone to feel left out. Then one of my neighbors lost a parent and I cleaned out my pantry cooking a large meal for them. Then “bam!” Covid shut everything down and I was out of EVERYTHING! Literally! So now I’m still having a hard time not feeling like I have to have 50 rolls of toilet paper and tons of food on hand! Right now I’m trying to use up things in my pantry so I can actually see what I have and we eat it before it goes out of date. But in the back of my mind, I’m thinking, “What if something happens again?” It’s hard to get “unbrainwashed.” But I’m working on it! I hate clutter! What I found I did too, was ended up buying too many storage cabinets to store all the clutter which is just as bad because then furniture felt like it was closing in on me! But I’m diligently working on getting back to normal!
Definitely have to strike a balance. I wanted to get something for my brother's birthday, a coffee he liked. I wasn't able to because I waited until I was heading to his house and it wasn't on the shelf.
Just look at the stores, it’s no wonder we have clutter problems. Walmart, Target, Michaels, Hobby Lobby, TJMaxx. There’s just so much STUFF. You pop in for one or two things you NEED and walk out with yet another seasonal throw pillow, or coffee mug, tiny planter, piece of wall art. New collections come out every single year, so even though you have enough Christmas decorations, there will be new cute things to buy that they didn’t have last year. They also sell us on decorating for each holiday and season. People have garages or basements FULL of boxes for Easter, St Patrick’s Day, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, etc. Why? Do we really need a dozen decorations to keep up from March 1-17, then take up storage space the other 50 weeks of the year? It’s all just clutter.
I do not have any of those things. I grew up with less and we never got into all of that. My three sisters did not want all that storage of one day unnecessary decor.
You are so right! And it is all so pretty and would look great in our house...ugh! I have more Christmas, little fall, and some religious Easter items. I remember my Grandmas only decor was a Christmas tree. Simple living and no storage (used tinsel) as the tree was real!
Exactly! I realized years ago that every time I went to Target I would come out with extra things that were mostly just junk. So I stopped going. I have only been to Target probably twice in the last 6 years. And I don't miss it at all.... that's the best part. Can't even imagine how much money I have saved as well.
On Stuff That Comes With Stuff: I have bought at least a dozen hair blow dryers over the years and kept the additional concentrator and diffuser attachments out of some misplaced obligation to the sanctity of the set. I have never used any of the attachments, yet there they are, those slacker employees, slacking off in my drawer, serving no purpose. Out you go today, you're fired.
Also, I totally agree about the "silent to-do list." It's so accurate! I have so much spare time now after decluttering! And energy ofc. Cleaning the apartment brings so much pleasure now! And it takes half of the time I would spend before. I arranged the "use it up" challenge for myself as well. I have too many hand creams 😂 My skin gets super dry because of central heating, so people would notice it and gift me a set of creams 😂
I love that you referred to our stuff as being 'noisy'; this is exactly how I've described it and have noticed my home getting gradually 'quieter'. My brain is more peaceful the further I get on my journey. Ultimately, my aim is to eventually refer to myself a silent essentialist. 🤫
I just tossed half my Tupperware type items so now everything has a place and everyone in the family can easily put away the items. As I get older, less is so much more.
This is so true. And not only does clutter become overwhelming, it also prevents the ability to clean which adds to the stress. When my home was cluttered the idea of cleaning just made me feel sick because I’d have to clear up first and I just had nowhere to put everything without it all falling out of closets or we couldn’t move in the garage. And forget getting a car into the double garage! Now I don’t have much stuff cleaning becomes a pleasure.
I had one of those big "AHA" decluttering moments last winter. I had a pair of gloves that I really liked. One went missing. I spent a lot of time back tracking and looking for it, but could not find it. I put the one I did have away, "just in case" the other one turned up. I kept finding 1 glove and not the other. This was annoying because I was now convinced I had both gloves, just not in the same place. End of the story? Threw the single glove away, bought a new pair of gloves and have not spent one more minute looking for the missing glove mate. Thanks so much. I learn so much here.
You are so right after decluttering 15 min my home is guest ready 1 hour weekly cleaning maintains my home Daily maintenance of the home , dishes , laundry, tidy ups I too don’t call myself a minimalist… I say I try to live a more minimalist type of life and try to be very cautious of what I have To me a new phone case meant the older one was no longer wanted so it should be decluttered if you are keeping it that means you really did not need the new phone case ( 1 in 1 out rule )
Clutter cleaning is a majority of cleaning for me right now 😔 I’m going to be moving at the end of the year and getting rid of things has been cathartic but also so much work. 3 donation bags down, more to go!
You are doing a great job . I hope you will be very happy in your new clutter free home . When decluttered I put donations immediately in my trunk and try to drive daily to get rid of it ( it was a 2 min drive but I felt so free and liberated each time that it motivated me to keep going ) I am so proud of you . I was in your place 6 years ago .
@@rev.robynyoung7680 you are sooo right . It feels like a waste of time and money and stress. Having all that stuff in your new home can instantly make you feel depressed. Thank god I have been clutter free for 6 years . I am live on the west coast and transitioning to the East coast . I left about 9 months ago with just my cat a 1 suitcase packing last min . I had friends and family that wanted to meet up before I left . I was supposed to come back within 3 months which actually ended up in 9 months later. It was not easy and so many things were left behind . ( my mind was not there as some other unnecessary drama had happened while I was trying to leave ) Now I am back to the west coast trying to finalize my move . Here is my advise: Schedule time daily to declutter Plan it out with sections like 1 week for the master bedroom, 3 weeks for the garage on a big spiral notebook. This gives you lots of areas to write notes or break down sections like a dresser . Before starting a room break it down so that you have a section each day and then once completed you can check it off . You can also take notes like how many boxes you will need or special packaging like bubble wrap . Give yourself the last month as padding to do last min stuff . If you are going to meet friends or family make sure you complete your weekly schedule and as a reward you go out with friends and family . Example Monday -Friday declutter 1 hour in the morning and 2 hours in the evening . Saturday complete your goal for the week . Saturday night and Sunday are your free time Label and take pics of each box . I would honestly declutter for 2 months as you will realize after decluttering you are now realistic and can actually let go of more . So you have 5 months left . 2 months declutter next 2 months packing last month last min stuff . Listen to TH-cam videos ( especially moving or decluttering ones ) or have the tv on while I declutter so that I am not so stressed and makes the time go faster
@@rev.robynyoung7680 I am happy that you are busier and enjoying your retirement. I love your attitude that it will get done but you will still enjoy yourself . I am sooo happy for you and your positive attitude. Giving yourself grace is such a huge life lesson . Stay blessed and stay hydrated/ cool If you can please pray for my sons missing new 2 pound kitten that’s missing and that god brings him back to us safely would be so appreciated.
@@rev.robynyoung7680 we checked the house and even had to vet techs check our home . We have made made many attempts on Facebook and walking and driving around the neighborhood and posting flyers and talking to anyone including the Amazon guy Thanks for your prayers
THANK YOU!!!!!! I think this video has changed my life. My mum was a hoarder and I have that tendency. Today I happily, no gleefully!! Got rid of so much stuff. It's bagged ready for car boot. It's my bedroom I tackled so I ditched my "I'll shrink into that" clothes and I feel freaking amazing! That pressure is GONE! And I have some space!! Can't wait to tackle the rest of the house, make a little at a car boot and treat the family to a day out or something. I also started doing things for tomorrow me. Game changer!! Thank you so so much ❤️ x
Your repetitive message is working for me! My house is getting tidier slowly little by little! I’m a prepper so I will NEVER be able to be a minimalist though!
So true about why we keep things. I just cleaned out my bathroom cabinet. My blow dryer came with five or six different attachments. I have only used one. I still kept all of them, just in case. Thank you for permitting me to get rid of them.
Our dog has storage mite allergies too. I didn't know about Farmer's Dog, but we came up with another solution that seems to have worked. We buy grain-free dog food and store it in an air tight container. The mites aren't so interested in grain-free, and the container also discourages them. I don't really want my dog to be grain free, so I cook up brown rice and store it in the fridge, and then add it back into her food everyday. Her food is then virtually mite free.
Love this!! The beginning is SO me!!! A couple years ago I never would have been able to do a quick clean/organize if someone was coming over...I tried avoiding ppl coming over actually. Now I can quickly vacuum, put small things away, etc and I'm good to go!! I love your videos!!! Thank you!! You continue to give me extra insight to keep improving! 🥰
Hi Calli, Here's a laugh for you, I know you're a busy Mom so I understand if you don't see this. I got up early and decided to try your CLEANING SURFACES trick and try not to get distracted, I did really well and opened a cabinet and noticed coffee dust, I went to get a rag to clean it and said; "Oh Calli! I put the rag down and finished my task. Thank you for your motivational videos. 💜💜💜💜
My Inventory shouts at me all day every day. I only realize how noisy it was after I clear out a lot. You are so right about extra things that come with products. My steamer came with a plastic cup to fill it. I have all kinds of cups to use. Even clothing comes with extra buttons and thread and yarn and swatches! Of course we never need this stuff because we rotate clothes or donate when they get torn instead of mending. I'm now deciding to store these in my sewing basket so I can find them if needed lol thank you for your comments about minimalism. I have accepted This is not a goal for me. But all that I learn comes in handy. As I release the need for emotional attachment to inanimate things (no soul) I free myself to develop more healthy relationships with others. And with myself.
I agree with you completely. The hardest part of cleaning is redding up the clutter. Yes, I am from Pittsburgh., Pa. But once you declutter the cleaning part is easy. Having a minimal amount is also good Feng Shui for positive energy. They use Feng Shui in erecting and designing buildings to create the energy flow for success. But, let me add I have plenty of clutter in my house in case you were wondering. Lol
Awesome content I love that you researched the WHY behind our clutter. I have just recently discovered that my clutter (some have/would call hording) I a direct correlation to my mental state. Since covid I have not been out hunting and gathering stuff, so this addiction is under control. I mainly shop on line for only essentials. And I leave it in the cart or save for later until I am 1000% ready to use it! I have had to practice this to make it work. I have 2 households of stuff but I don’t want to die and have my son deal with it. I am so encouraged by your videos keep them up! Best wishes 😊
Thank you for being so honest on why you do not call yourself a minimalist. There are so many here on TH-cam who claim there are minimalists when they actually aren't, and mostly it is so obvious. They just use minimalism to produce content.
Sadly I feel like I’m failing every day, when it comes to the clutter and accumulation of unnecessary things in my home. It’s overwhelming at times. And of course it’s happening at the same time as regular life! There’s so much to do. I’m just not sure how I’m doing, but the little I have done has been satisfying to see when I walk through my house ❤
I have found and I know it's true for me that some poor people or people who have lost all their stuff have a hard time getting rid of things. I'm starting to get over this, mostly since hubby and I were homeless last year for about 6 months so now it's easier to prioritize what I have left.
I have recently found you channel and it’s like I was hit by a train. How you break things down and give the tools needed to start decluttering and keeping a tidy home is already starting to ripple through the house. I come from a family that has girding habits… like to the extreme in a couple ppl. I know this is a process that is going to take time to reach every corner of the house but I’m making big steps already in key areas! One trash bag of clothes out of my closet, several kitchen gadgets in a donation box, and today I’m working on my personal monster the craft room. It’s hard cause you think “well I could use this in the future for X project” but the local art teach has reached out to the community with an Amazon list of thing I have that I’ve not used in 2+ years so it’s going to her!
Isn’t this the truth. We all know it, we just need an action plan to pull it off. I’m trying to not be too hard on myself as many things have led to this. However, I’m ready.
First time I have ever watched an entire sponsor pitch without fast forwarding! lol! Yeah Olive! You did a great job of personalizing the product benefit and helping me to relate as well! I wish all “commercials” could be this short, informative and enjoyable!
It has been hard for me to get rid of stuff. But after watching and really listening to you it has become so much easier. When I dispose of things i don't need it is so refreshing. 😊
Everything you said really clicked for me. I struggle so much with clutter. It seems to me every time I get rid of something or even think about getting rid of it, I find a circumstance where I need it or want it. But what really hit home for me was when you said all of the things the item needs you to do to take care of it. That is overwhelming and really good to think about especially if I want to buy something. One shirt will require washing and folding and putting away and then putting it in the hamper or picking it up off the floor. So much work. I don't want more work! -- Great video!
I’m so glad I found you last week. I wanted to start decluttering and you’ve given me the motivation to do so. I am on a roll now and I have you to thank for that!
I just found her too. I was a little spooked when she showed up in my feed (not my usual category) as I’ve been obsessing over decluttering lately. I’ve had enough! How did my phone know? I’ve been binging her videos in the last few days and I’m overjoyed. She is amazing! Her comments and editing are perfect, in addition to her content. I’ve already gone through a lot but the road is long and will be very bumpy along the way.
I totally understand that clutter makes noise. It's definitely visual static like an old off-air station after midnight. When I would wake up it was miserable to open my eyes and see all that STUFF. It's high time to work on my bedroom now. Anyway, I enjoyed watching this. I just discovered you through a Short and was thrilled to see a longer vid. You have a pleasant style and it's easy to implement your ideas. Thank you, beautiful lady.
Perfect timing for this video! I’m in the process of purging a lot of stuff. We just moved from a 3,000sf house to a 1300sf house and we came from a 6000sf house prior to that. Even though I downsized once, I still have 6000sf of stuff 🤦🏼♀️ so yes, I’ve been learning to downsize considerably and getting very creative with my smaller spaces.
We live in a 2300 square foot home and it is the largest home we have ever owned. I can't even fathom the upkeep on a 6000 square foot home! Do you love your 1300 square ft home?
@@embr4065 We sure do! It’s definitely easier to keep clean. And with less junk cluttering it up, it’s less stressful too! I can enjoy the 5 acres we live on and feed the fish and turtles in our lake. Beats cleaning all the time! ☺️
@@jac4TH-cam Can totally relate. I can't take more than one hoarders episode at a time. Freaks me out. I run around gathering stuff to get rid of, even though my home is fairly clutter free and organized (but there's always room for improvement).
Your opening remarks about company visiting is SO ME, unfortunately. I'm working on it but it's a BIG task. I liked the analogy about an employee. If I'm not wearing it or using it but it's taking up space that would be better occupied by things I DO wear and use them in paying it too much!
The concept of our stuff judging us was one of the best approaches for me to purge a lot of stuff that never made prior donation piles! I know it's similar to sparking joy but also not really. Neutral is fine. Judgment (us against the item or the item against us) is a good tool.
I could so relate to this concept. I have a craft room full of "stuff". It weighs on me. I constantly think I need to use it or declutter it. It's always there. This is going to be my top priority. Declutter!!! I actually "organized" a couple years ago but have added more and there's no room! And now I've lost my organization. Thnx for the nudge! 😊
Love your TRANSPARENCY! I fully understand the “feeling like I’m failing” mentality even though I am “minimalizing” my home. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this!😊❤️
Moving abruptly to another country with just a suitcase and a backpack tells so much about “the necessary stuff” I need to live quite satisfyingly. Taking into account a bunch of art supplies as I’m a mandala artist.
I wish the rest of my family members were on board with this concept. I started getting rid of excess inventory thru various means: selling websites, donations, hand me downs. But while I'm very pleased with what I have accomplished, I have 3 other family members whose clutter and piles depress me. I try not to nag, but suggest for them to clean up, but more often than not it just sits for weeks growing into a bigger mess. ADHD is a big part of it as well I know (thanks Cas from Clutterbug) but it still weighs on my emotional well being too. Love your videos TFS❤️
@@kimberlyreiter3213 If your husband is on board with cleaning, but is blind to his own clutter, try to make him scan the rooms like he has to describe it to a third person. Works wonders for my clutter blindness
Another way to help break clutter blindness is to take photos of the cluttered spaces and try to imagine you were a stranger viewing the room for the first time. Maybe that would help your husband see it?
Yesterday I tossed manuals for appliances. I did it behind my husband's back. He'd have a fit. But in 18 years I've NEVER seen him pull out a manual for anything. And every manual is online now.
The only time I ever used the manuals for our appliances was when we sold the house and I put together a binder for the new owner. I downloaded the manuals for what we own now, and so far, the only times I've visited those files is when I've replaced items and need to toss the old manual. I'm betting he never notices that they're gone.
My husband has these stupid things too. I want to toss them but I have a strict no decluttering other peoples things policy. So I think they will move into his walk-in closet. (Mine is an accordion closet btw.)
After watching this, I immediately started decluttering my office. My problem is that I'm not always seeing the clutter until I look for it, even though it's right in front of me.
Again - you’re changing lives with your content! Thank you Kallie!!! We are OVERHAULING all the stuff in our house because of friends moving in! Well, they move in Saturday! 😅😬😳 and while we have accomplished a TON there’s still more to go. . . Even now, while watching this video and eating breakfast, I’m thinking of all I need to do BUT not overwhelmed because of this mindset shift. I know how much lighter I already feel from all we’ve already done, so doing all we need to before Saturday is going to change our lives! 🥰 Thank you for the encouragement and just plain giving a rip about helping us move forward with functioning homes, decluttered stuff, and happier families.
A great practical video,so true about all the objects in the home calling for your attention which destroys the peace in the home and prevents the basic jobs of a clean floor and countertop being sanitized which causes more stress.While you’re attending all “the stuff”your baby is crying in a playpen etc clearing all the toys on floor.You Lose out on precious time with your children which is more stress!You always look beautiful but I’ve noticed you look even more refreshed and beautiful in this video....i think it’s because less stuff definitely less stress....it shows even on a persons face.keep up the great work and videos!thanks 💐
The thing in my household is when something gets replaced the item it is replacing is not being thrown away or donated. My husband likes to “ save “ and doesn’t like getting rid of things. He’s much better the last few years since he turned 60, lol
I’ve gotten rid of so much in the past year and my life is so much easier! Clothes, makeup, thousands of travel size or samples collected, paper, paper, paper…UGH! Utensils I’ve never used, just moving from one house to another for 25 yrs now! GONE! Given away, sold or thrown away. I know exactly what I have and where it is. FINALLY. Olive is so adorable!!!
Hi, I have been binge watching all of your TH-cam's about clutter, and I have decided it's time I declutter my small one bedroom apartment. It's like I've grown accustomed to the mess. But in reality I am ashamed of how my apartment looks and feels. I kind of decluttered the bathroom already but I'm really going to focus on letting useless things go if I can't find a home for them. Thanks for teaching me about clutter and organization.
I love your idea of the hidden to-do lists. It makes me realize how much stress I get just from sitting in my room as I see "things to do" EVERYWHERE. so true. I am inspired. I am sharing these videos with friends. Thank you.
For that thermometer I use it at least twice a year for long term monitoring or the stuffed turkey. One for the thick breast meat and one for the stuffing. I will not open the oven because it can add up to 15 minutes of cook time each time you peak in or adjust the coverings.
Excellent! My Valet drawer is now stored in a clear plastic over the door shoe holder-it is behind the bathroom door and I have a free drawer in the kitchen. Really just because I got tired of looking for stuff.
I’ve had a minimal home 🏡 for a while now. So I didn’t notice how great it is until I went to my mom’s who’s not that minimal🙈 I can’t explain it scientifically 😀 but the amount of time I spent in her kitchen was overwhelming! How come I need an hour to clean after dinner 😨❗️ Wash 10 plates, 4 lunch boxes, 6 forks, wipe the surfaces picking up ALL that’s standing there. Then it hit me! There’s simply too much stuff there to manage🔪👩🍳
Truth! You can live life if you’re always managing your stuff! I was blown away by the thought of your stuff talking to you!!! And it does! This clutters your mind! I don’t think I will ever be a “minimalist “ but I want to get really close! 🙃
I had a similar experience visiting my mom earlier this year. My kitchen isn’t minimal at all though I do have things kinda streamlined but visiting my mom, I could see how easy it is to feel overwhelmed by all the extra things we don’t need but have to care for.
I am curious. How exactly does it take less time to clean up a minimal kitchen after dinner? You need to clean the pots and dishes. It can't really be fewer plates, because only because you're a minimalist doesn't mean you share your plate with someone else. I have been on my decluttering journey for years now and I want to become even better, but I really wonder if cleaning up a kitchen after a meal is really so different in a conventional and minimal kitchen. I'd be happy for some perspective.
@@claudiaheilmann4883 well, I can tell my story. If you have one plate for a person, dishes don’t get collected from several meals. So, for each meal you’ll need to wash the plate/fork right away to use them next time. And if you don’t have extra bowl you start putting food right in everyone’s plate without that transition to a bowl. Also, my hubby and I do sometimes eat from a pan. Also, if I have limited things for cooking I reuse stuff rather than take something specifically for one purpose. Or I wash that one thing that I need right away before I need it second time, because I don’t have multiples. That’s just my experience, sure, it can be different for everyone 😅
@@claudiaheilmann4883I have made some decluttering progress (finally) and here's what I have noticed. If you have fewer items, there is more room on the counter tops, which makes it easier to wash a dish and set it on a towel on a cleared off countertop. Also putting things away inside a cabinet is less stressful and more satisfying because there is plenty of room to put it away. So I used to absolutely dread putting things away even though I wanted all the things put away. Now I like putting things away because it's easy, and I get an instant high from the neat and tidy appearance. This has taken me years to achieve. I feel bad that I didn't know how to do this before. I have 6 kids. My oldest moved out 2 years ago, and that has helped. We still have some of his things in boxes.
Thanks for another really informative video. This just left me with the question...how much stuff is too much? It obviously depends on the size of the home. I've sorted cutlery, chinaware, bedding, towels, clothes etc and donated £100's worth of stuff to various charities which is very rewarding. But am still struggling with a collection of umbrellas, scarfs, trainers, boxes of tupperware, pots & pans and so many books. I've not bought unnecessary stuff for 2 years, but still have a dilemma knowing what's the least amount I should live with.
Love this!! Very true.. I am stuck in my room with Covid but when I’m feeling better I am really going to work towards decluttering my house. It ya asked too much energy to clean!
What did she say at the beginning? I’m a newer follower. She’s fantastic! That’s so kind of you to tell her you’re proud of her. Even though I’ve just “met” her I am too. To do all this with young kids is mind blowing.
Girl, SPEAK! Over 5 weeks (NOT months) your encouragement has kicked me into some kind of autonomous mindset where I've been subliminally clearing the counters, tables, cabs and drawers throughout my day and even stopped by the $ Store for small containers and a neat two-tier sliding gizmo for the under-sink kitchen cab. Having experienced moves in/out of homes from 1200 to 3500 SF, and having arrived to the 538 SF Studio where I've comfortably lived for 10 years, I can attest that everything you advocate is true. I've been orderly and organized throughout moves and life changes however, the smaller my dwelling needs, the more important it's become to push myself into making necessary decisions about 'stuff' and what it costs to keep it, store it, and take care of it when it's clear that although I love my 'stuff', I no longer use it as I once did. I've been able to turn beloved items into gifts and donated things I no longer use/need to folks who do - there is no shortage. You've reignited an awareness that helps me keep my life organized and I thank you. ["Valet Drawer" is my new fave term and -- as a postscript from my house to yours -- keep the 2nd thermometer, it doesn't take up enough space to warrant needing a costly replacement down the road in case of breakage, loss, etc. It's good to have a few 'just in case' things. Mine are taped in labelled envelopes to the underside of a desk/countertop above drawers or to the wall of cabs - a smallish 'just in case' space where I don't see it but know it's there] - Love your spirit and energy, you've set me back on a trail I wouldn't have gotten to without you sharing your journey and encouragement. You're an outstanding presenter, btw.
One of the best compliments I ever got was from my sister when she said, your house is always company ready. I don't have clutter. My house is organized and cleaned and I am always ready for company. Of course I don't have small children at home anymore but the less junk you have the easier life is.
Feeling so called out in this video 😂! One of my favorite videos from you and so relatable! My mom might be coming up this week and I kinda freaked out thinking about all the things I need to organize/clean/put away. Yep it’s time to start decluttering because I have too many employees!
I'm in the process of moving and I'm looking at everything asking why in the world do I have this and why am I keeping it. Especially with kids they accumulate so much stuff in only a year. Watching your videos have given me the motivation to decludder so much and it feels so good to let go.
Thank you so much for all your advice and encouragement and all your wisdom you share with us ! Our Daisy has been thriving on The Farmers Dog food too ! She has cancer and it’s given her pep back in her step !!!!!!! ❤️😊
I have purged things and very shortly after I was in need of them. Ex: My weight goes up and down. I purged a lot of too big clothes, 6 months later I needed them and had to buy new ones. Now I just box them up and put in the attic.
Thank you for this timely piece - lots of gems! 3 of my grandkids attended a wonderful Playschool from 3-5ish, and the kids loved those magnet blocks! I was our family classroom volunteer, and after a couple of hours free play, we'd spend 5-10 minutes on clean up, and with the great organization systems and that daily attention, the kids could buzz through the areas they chose to clean when they came in! It taught them (and me!!) a lot about having well chosen and stewarded items and supplies. Adults ran the vacuum and started the dishwasher (they served their own snack, and bused their dishes) I love it when I have less clutter and am more organized so a 'bumblebee' is more of a tidy! I got behind the last couple of years - working toward a move so it's overhaul time!
This is a great way of thinking about stuff - as employees. The minimal mom really helped me get rid of 50% of our stuff and our life has been so much easier since then - her slogan "managing inventory" really helped. However, it never worked for me with kid's toys (our girls are 10 months and 2 1/2). So we are drowning in toys while the rest of our apartment is so manageable. I'll start decluttering toys again, this time thinking of them as employees - I'm really hopeful that I will get this under control after all 😆 thank you for this video
I started to get the incorporating my 3yo into an annual pre-Christmas declutter of her toys as she grows she is learning to choose some toys she no longer plays with and “give them” to another baby who might like to play with them. I tell her she’s making space for any new toys she might get as a present. She’s now 6 and regularly goes though her toy stash and makes decisions about what to keep and what she’d like to donate.
Oh my God! I was trying different methods to keep my house clean and tidy and always put a timer on 30min, but it wasn't enough and now I know why. It was because of the clutter. If I didn't spend so much time on putting away all the clutter, I would be able to finish in 30minutes. Thank you! Your videos help me so much and I'm in the beginning, but I see a way to win this war.
I grew up with the mindset that bigger quantities are cheaper and "save it just in case" but then I find myself throwing these things out or donating years later when I could have bought the smaller pack or just get rid of some things from the beginning. Thank you! I love your videos
As an autistic person I find declutter and organizing very overwhelming and I'm sure most people do but I never know where to start and its very difficult for me to part with stuff so this was a great way to think about things and explain it love your content very helpful thanks for all you advice and motivation this gives me a clear idea of what items I can purge from my room/life
AMEN! I lived without stuff for about 2 months because we moved to where the military sent us and it gave me the most freedom I ever had I was extremely happy. Seeing the the stuff fill out every room did not make me happy moving into a bigger house has made me somehow have more clutter and now I struggle to sleep when u used to sleep like a baby.
I like the idea of your stuff being noisy. I have heard this concept as well. I think tuning into that is an interesting experiment. Silent to do list for the things being noisy.
It’s clear this video was and is relatable to so so many!! Every single word I agreed with and have & /or am in that position!! Keep fighting the good fight
Bravo! I agree with you; not to tag oneself ¨being a minimalist¨; it avoids ostracizing others (from what they are not doing, believing); avoiding judging. It is choosing a simple life! :))
Just grab a box, put all extra pieces for certain items in there and put in your basement. I can’t count the number of times I wished I hadn’t gotten rid of something cause I called it junk and then later realized I needed it. But I also put a price amount on the item, if I can afford to get a new one then I will get rid of said item or if it’s easy to find again. Somethings you just can’t find anymore.
I don't have a basement and live in less than 200 sq ft. I'm learning that I don't have the space for too many "just in case" items anymore. Getting rid of these things is a continuous process for me in order to keep the clutter down.
Such good advice! (Keep the extra thermometer probe. The temp probes wear out and it's nice to have the extra, instead of replacing the thermometer, which will come with an extra probe). :D Kitchen gadgets could be a blind spot for me tho! ymmv
Thank you!!!! First, for laying crucial Principles & then explaining them throughlyI really needed your explanations and way of clarification!! Enlightening!
The most amazing thing happened to me yesterday. I decided to get rid of my camera, hp all in one, crafting supplies, thousands of dollars. I wanted to donate to a school. I searched, posted on next door, couldn't find a school to take. Went go goodwill. Looked at the lady in front of me. Yep! A teacher! And in charge of yearbook!they have to buy their own supplies! She showed me pics of her kids, class...meant to be! God is good! I was so happy I cried! It was time to let go and so glad it went where needed.
That is a great ending. I used to be a teacher's aide, and the amt of their own money they have to spend is shameful. I am currently doing my craft supplies. I feel bad about the $ wasted on my fantasy self that crafts like Martha Stewart. The real me doesn't have the patience. I am going to use your story as inspiration and believe that when I let it go, it will arrive at the perfect place. Thanks.
What an amazing story. I hope the kids enjoy using the supplies
Praise God 🙏🏼
That’s amazing 😻
Wow. Meant to be!
I love the idea of things in your house being "employees". You can think through things like "what did I hire this thing to do?" "if I were to evaluate its performance how is it doing?". Also the shift of thinking about your energy, space, time, and stress as the employee's "payment" and whether it's worth what you are paying.
I agree! I had never thought of my items as employees before. Right away, I thought of two spatulas in my kitchen drawer that are rarely used. They’re cute, but useless employees! They’re getting fired today! 😂
I've done something similar for larger items costing them as renters but this way is better
@@ckee8437 I do that, too. Especially rarely used large items I check how much space that item needs and calculate how much rent that is - makes it really easy to get rid of things, even when it was on the pricey side because rent adds up fast.
However, equating employees with "stuff"--disposable material items-- just isn't right or respectful.
@@dianeyoung8068 But some employees will be happier in a new place of employment where they can finally work for their pay instead of sitting in a cubicle/cupboard doing nothing! Or again, think about toy story where either he could remain as a toy getting played with vs staying in a box in pristine unused condition.
The dryer was my Mom's favorite stuffing place when she found out surprise guests would be arriving soon. It was amazing how much random stuff She could pack in there. Unfortunately we only had one dryer, so it all had to come out as soon as guests left so we could wash and dry clothes.
Me: "MOM, where are my shoes and my purse, they were in the livingroom?"
Mom: "Check the dryer." ...
My childhood was interesting.
That is really funny. And creative. I never ever thought of that. One woman told me she carries things out to her car before people come over.
That is a great story....smart Mom. Mine was the closet, but when people came to visit and see my home....I showed them the closet!!!! Forgot the stuff was there!
Priceless lol
@@NLY1WAY4U amateur
I told my husband that I needed some cabinets above my washer and dryer. I went in and decluttered the shelf that I have there. What did I find after I decluttered? A half empty shelf. I opted for pretty wallpaper instead. My husband was so relieved that he went with me to buy the wallpaper. He even spotted me while I climbed up on the washer and dryer. Thank you for all your declutter facts. We saved a bunch!
The SILENT TO DO LIST!!! Yes!!!! It's such a mental and thus physical drain! Perfectly said
I feel like this video was strategically posted just 2 days before Prime Day... Now we are all rethinking our Amazon carts and fake "savings" 😂 This video is gold.
Decluttering, for me, has been a stress relief and a natural high. Every time my husband and I get rid of something that we have had forever, I am so happy. We live in a small home. Recently, I cleaned out my shed, and I am so happy. We have no garage, so we have a ways to go on the other shed, but it gives me something to look forward to. It is actually more fun to get rid of things than to buy new things!
Here in the U.S. I believe we have a conflict between a desire for a simpler life (for many people anyway) and a national economy based on excessive consumerism. I have no clue how that can be reconciled, lol, but it’s not going to improve until we do. Loved this video, thanks for sharing. Now I’m going to go get rid of a bunch of spare parts. 🤣🤣🤣
It concerns not only the USA, it’s the same here in Europe
I was raised for several of my informative years by a woman who had the "just in case" mentality. As an adult I've struggled with clutter. It's caused anxiety and depression. I recently had a baby and knew things had to change because I wanted to set a better example for him. So much stuff had left my home in the last few weeks. Things I've held on to years. My diet has changed and I'm eating at home. For the first time in a long time I'm feeling better. Even my husband has started suddenly doing random chores. It's like I got the ball rolling and it had a ripple effect throughout my life.
I've had this weird phenomenon where before covid I was very minimal and had few things. During covid that sparseness actually started to give me some anxiety and now I'm much more cluttery. Not to the point of it being bad or anything, just very different from how I was before. I also keep spares of like everything important whereas before I just had one and relied on what I thought was the fact I could just run out and pick up a replacement whenever. I just don't take that for granted anymore.
I just spent two weeks with COVID. I started clearing out a lot of my stuff. I think part of it was that I had more craft supplies and other stuff that I had just in case that I would die before I could use it all. It made me so happy to clear out drawers but it is hardly noticeable. I think this will be once a week or even more often looking for things to get out of my space.
Yes, Covid did make us all question our security
Completely agree. I never noticed that I stress eat until COVID came and I was forced to see myself differently. I hope you are able to feel more comfortable at home with doubles of things. I was never one of those bulk buyers during COVID or anything but I feel insecure without backup food. I have a few weeks worth of cans/noodles/rice etc to keep me from getting too uneasy
@@terrisaunders7036 I found myself without a lot of essential supplies when Covid hit. I wasn’t one to store certain things like food, cleaning supplies, and paper goods. But the couple of weeks leading up to Covid I was very busy getting ready for my then turning 7 year old’s “Proper Princess Tea Birthday Party” as she called it. I was making everything homemade because one of her friends has food allergies and I didn’t want anyone to feel left out.
Then one of my neighbors lost a parent and I cleaned out my pantry cooking a large meal for them.
Then “bam!” Covid shut everything down and I was out of EVERYTHING! Literally!
So now I’m still having a hard time not feeling like I have to have 50 rolls of toilet paper and tons of food on hand!
Right now I’m trying to use up things in my pantry so I can actually see what I have and we eat it before it goes out of date. But in the back of my mind, I’m thinking, “What if something happens again?”
It’s hard to get “unbrainwashed.”
But I’m working on it! I hate clutter!
What I found I did too, was ended up buying too many storage cabinets to store all the clutter which is just as bad because then furniture felt like it was closing in on me!
But I’m diligently working on getting back to normal!
Definitely have to strike a balance. I wanted to get something for my brother's birthday, a coffee he liked. I wasn't able to because I waited until I was heading to his house and it wasn't on the shelf.
Just look at the stores, it’s no wonder we have clutter problems. Walmart, Target, Michaels, Hobby Lobby, TJMaxx. There’s just so much STUFF. You pop in for one or two things you NEED and walk out with yet another seasonal throw pillow, or coffee mug, tiny planter, piece of wall art. New collections come out every single year, so even though you have enough Christmas decorations, there will be new cute things to buy that they didn’t have last year.
They also sell us on decorating for each holiday and season. People have garages or basements FULL of boxes for Easter, St Patrick’s Day, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, etc. Why? Do we really need a dozen decorations to keep up from March 1-17, then take up storage space the other 50 weeks of the year? It’s all just clutter.
This! Drives me crazy.... All the stuff in the stores. And so much plastic. 😔
I think about the plastic when at dollar tree...broken items are inevitable then the garbage. Ugh!
I do not have any of those things. I grew up with less and we never got into all of that. My three sisters did not want all that storage of one day unnecessary decor.
You are so right! And it is all so pretty and would look great in our house...ugh! I have more Christmas, little fall, and some religious Easter items. I remember my Grandmas only decor was a Christmas tree. Simple living and no storage (used tinsel) as the tree was real!
Exactly! I realized years ago that every time I went to Target I would come out with extra things that were mostly just junk. So I stopped going. I have only been to Target probably twice in the last 6 years. And I don't miss it at all.... that's the best part. Can't even imagine how much money I have saved as well.
On Stuff That Comes With Stuff: I have bought at least a dozen hair blow dryers over the years and kept the additional concentrator and diffuser attachments out of some misplaced obligation to the sanctity of the set. I have never used any of the attachments, yet there they are, those slacker employees, slacking off in my drawer, serving no purpose. Out you go today, you're fired.
“Sanctity of the set” . I totally suffer from that guilt too. 😂😂😂
@@sharonozvenom same. What is it about having the set that we have all been duped into??
I need to get rid of vacuum cleaner attachments from old vacuum cleaner and the bags!
Also, I totally agree about the "silent to-do list." It's so accurate! I have so much spare time now after decluttering! And energy ofc. Cleaning the apartment brings so much pleasure now! And it takes half of the time I would spend before. I arranged the "use it up" challenge for myself as well. I have too many hand creams 😂 My skin gets super dry because of central heating, so people would notice it and gift me a set of creams 😂
I love that you referred to our stuff as being 'noisy'; this is exactly how I've described it and have noticed my home getting gradually 'quieter'. My brain is more peaceful the further I get on my journey. Ultimately, my aim is to eventually refer to myself a silent essentialist. 🤫
I just tossed half my Tupperware type items so now everything has a place and everyone in the family can easily put away the items.
As I get older, less is so much more.
This is so true. And not only does clutter become overwhelming, it also prevents the ability to clean which adds to the stress. When my home was cluttered the idea of cleaning just made me feel sick because I’d have to clear up first and I just had nowhere to put everything without it all falling out of closets or we couldn’t move in the garage. And forget getting a car into the double garage! Now I don’t have much stuff cleaning becomes a pleasure.
I had one of those big "AHA" decluttering moments last winter. I had a pair of gloves that I really liked. One went missing. I spent a lot of time back tracking and looking for it, but could not find it. I put the one I did have away, "just in case" the other one turned up. I kept finding 1 glove and not the other. This was annoying because I was now convinced I had both gloves, just not in the same place. End of the story? Threw the single glove away, bought a new pair of gloves and have not spent one more minute looking for the missing glove mate. Thanks so much. I learn so much here.
It is so annoying looking for the second sock and glove... ...and matching all the gloves to right ones again... .
Wow. Have never related more to a post in my life.
Olive is a minimalist. One look for happy, sad and "really?" She's a keeper.
🤣
You are so right after decluttering
15 min my home is guest ready
1 hour weekly cleaning maintains my home
Daily maintenance of the home , dishes , laundry, tidy ups
I too don’t call myself a minimalist… I say I try to live a more minimalist type of life and try to be very cautious of what I have
To me a new phone case meant the older one was no longer wanted so it should be decluttered if you are keeping it that means you really did not need the new phone case ( 1 in 1 out rule )
I've been decluttering like a mad women. I think I just heard my house say "thanks". If feels a lot better now.
Clutter cleaning is a majority of cleaning for me right now 😔 I’m going to be moving at the end of the year and getting rid of things has been cathartic but also so much work. 3 donation bags down, more to go!
You are doing a great job . I hope you will be very happy in your new clutter free home .
When decluttered I put donations immediately in my trunk and try to drive daily to get rid of it ( it was a 2 min drive but I felt so free and liberated each time that it motivated me to keep going )
I am so proud of you . I was in your place 6 years ago .
@@rev.robynyoung7680 you are sooo right . It feels like a waste of time and money and stress. Having all that stuff in your new home can instantly make you feel depressed.
Thank god I have been clutter free for 6 years . I am live on the west coast and transitioning to the East coast . I left about 9 months ago with just my cat a 1 suitcase packing last min . I had friends and family that wanted to meet up before I left . I was supposed to come back within 3 months which actually ended up in 9 months later. It was not easy and so many things were left behind . ( my mind was not there as some other unnecessary drama had happened while I was trying to leave )
Now I am back to the west coast trying to finalize my move .
Here is my advise:
Schedule time daily to declutter Plan it out with sections like 1 week for the master bedroom, 3 weeks for the garage on a big spiral notebook. This gives you lots of areas to write notes or break down sections like a dresser . Before starting a room break it down so that you have a section each day and then once completed you can check it off . You can also take notes like how many boxes you will need or special packaging like bubble wrap .
Give yourself the last month as padding to do last min stuff .
If you are going to meet friends or family make sure you complete your weekly schedule and as a reward you go out with friends and family . Example Monday -Friday declutter 1 hour in the morning and 2 hours in the evening . Saturday complete your goal for the week . Saturday night and Sunday are your free time
Label and take pics of each box .
I would honestly declutter for 2 months as you will realize after decluttering you are now realistic and can actually let go of more . So you have 5 months left . 2 months declutter next 2 months packing last month last min stuff .
Listen to TH-cam videos ( especially moving or decluttering ones ) or have the tv on while I declutter so that I am not so stressed and makes the time go faster
Last month I gave away 7 contractor bags of things. I cant even tell you what was in there. Smh
@@rev.robynyoung7680 I am happy that you are busier and enjoying your retirement. I love your attitude that it will get done but you will still enjoy yourself . I am sooo happy for you and your positive attitude. Giving yourself grace is such a huge life lesson . Stay blessed and stay hydrated/ cool
If you can please pray for my sons missing new 2 pound kitten that’s missing and that god brings him back to us safely would be so appreciated.
@@rev.robynyoung7680 we checked the house and even had to vet techs check our home . We have made made many attempts on Facebook and walking and driving around the neighborhood and posting flyers and talking to anyone including the Amazon guy
Thanks for your prayers
THANK YOU!!!!!! I think this video has changed my life. My mum was a hoarder and I have that tendency. Today I happily, no gleefully!! Got rid of so much stuff. It's bagged ready for car boot. It's my bedroom I tackled so I ditched my "I'll shrink into that" clothes and I feel freaking amazing! That pressure is GONE! And I have some space!! Can't wait to tackle the rest of the house, make a little at a car boot and treat the family to a day out or something. I also started doing things for tomorrow me. Game changer!! Thank you so so much ❤️ x
Your repetitive message is working for me! My house is getting tidier slowly little by little! I’m a prepper so I will NEVER be able to be a minimalist though!
So true about why we keep things. I just cleaned out my bathroom cabinet. My blow dryer came with five or six different attachments. I have only used one.
I still kept all of them, just in case.
Thank you for permitting me to get rid of them.
Our dog has storage mite allergies too. I didn't know about Farmer's Dog, but we came up with another solution that seems to have worked. We buy grain-free dog food and store it in an air tight container. The mites aren't so interested in grain-free, and the container also discourages them. I don't really want my dog to be grain free, so I cook up brown rice and store it in the fridge, and then add it back into her food everyday. Her food is then virtually mite free.
Love this!! The beginning is SO me!!! A couple years ago I never would have been able to do a quick clean/organize if someone was coming over...I tried avoiding ppl coming over actually. Now I can quickly vacuum, put small things away, etc and I'm good to go!!
I love your videos!!! Thank you!! You continue to give me extra insight to keep improving! 🥰
Hi Calli, Here's a laugh for you, I know you're a busy Mom so I understand if you don't see this. I got up early and decided to try your CLEANING SURFACES trick and try not to get distracted, I did really well and opened a cabinet and noticed coffee dust, I went to get a rag to clean it and said; "Oh Calli! I put the rag down and finished my task. Thank you for your motivational videos. 💜💜💜💜
My Inventory shouts at me all day every day. I only realize how noisy it was after I clear out a lot. You are so right about extra things that come with products. My steamer came with a plastic cup to fill it. I have all kinds of cups to use. Even clothing comes with extra buttons and thread and yarn and swatches! Of course we never need this stuff because we rotate clothes or donate when they get torn instead of mending. I'm now deciding to store these in my sewing basket so I can find them if needed lol thank you for your comments about minimalism. I have accepted This is not a goal for me. But all that I learn comes in handy. As I release the need for emotional attachment to inanimate things (no soul) I free myself to develop more healthy relationships with others. And with myself.
Well said!!
I agree with you completely. The hardest part of cleaning is redding up the clutter. Yes, I am from Pittsburgh., Pa. But once you declutter the cleaning part is easy. Having a minimal amount is also good Feng Shui for positive energy. They use Feng Shui in erecting and designing buildings to create the energy flow for success. But, let me add I have plenty of clutter in my house in case you were wondering. Lol
Awesome content I love that you researched the WHY behind our clutter. I have just recently discovered that my clutter (some have/would call hording) I a direct correlation to my mental state. Since covid I have not been out hunting and gathering stuff, so this addiction is under control. I mainly shop on line for only essentials. And I leave it in the cart or save for later until I am 1000% ready to use it! I have had to practice this to make it work. I have 2 households of stuff but I don’t want to die and have my son deal with it. I am so encouraged by your videos keep them up! Best wishes 😊
Just put "goodbye, things" on hold at my local library. Looking forward to it coming in!
Thank you for being so honest on why you do not call yourself a minimalist. There are so many here on TH-cam who claim there are minimalists when they actually aren't, and mostly it is so obvious. They just use minimalism to produce content.
Employees?!?!?!? Genius! I think this will help my husband understand it’s ok to “fire” useless employees. LOVE IT!!!! 👏🏽 👏🏽
Sadly I feel like I’m failing every day, when it comes to the clutter and accumulation of unnecessary things in my home. It’s overwhelming at times. And of course it’s happening at the same time as regular life! There’s so much to do. I’m just not sure how I’m doing, but the little I have done has been satisfying to see when I walk through my house ❤
I have found and I know it's true for me that some poor people or people who have lost all their stuff have a hard time getting rid of things. I'm starting to get over this, mostly since hubby and I were homeless last year for about 6 months so now it's easier to prioritize what I have left.
I have recently found you channel and it’s like I was hit by a train. How you break things down and give the tools needed to start decluttering and keeping a tidy home is already starting to ripple through the house. I come from a family that has girding habits… like to the extreme in a couple ppl. I know this is a process that is going to take time to reach every corner of the house but I’m making big steps already in key areas! One trash bag of clothes out of my closet, several kitchen gadgets in a donation box, and today I’m working on my personal monster the craft room. It’s hard cause you think “well I could use this in the future for X project” but the local art teach has reached out to the community with an Amazon list of thing I have that I’ve not used in 2+ years so it’s going to her!
You have a great way of saying the things I know deep down but need to hear them to motivate me!
Isn’t this the truth. We all know it, we just need an action plan to pull it off. I’m trying to not be too hard on myself as many things have led to this. However, I’m ready.
First time I have ever watched an entire sponsor pitch without fast forwarding! lol! Yeah Olive! You did a great job of personalizing the product benefit and helping me to relate as well! I wish all “commercials” could be this short, informative and enjoyable!
Same!! I went to skip ahead, realized it was dog related, and watched the whole thing 😂
It has been hard for me to get rid of stuff. But after watching and really listening to you it has become so much easier. When I dispose of things i don't need it is so refreshing. 😊
Everything you said really clicked for me. I struggle so much with clutter. It seems to me every time I get rid of something or even think about getting rid of it, I find a circumstance where I need it or want it. But what really hit home for me was when you said all of the things the item needs you to do to take care of it. That is overwhelming and really good to think about especially if I want to buy something. One shirt will require washing and folding and putting away and then putting it in the hamper or picking it up off the floor. So much work. I don't want more work! -- Great video!
I’m so glad I found you last week. I wanted to start decluttering and you’ve given me the motivation to do so. I am on a roll now and I have you to thank for that!
I’ve been following for about a year, life changing
I just found her too. I was a little spooked when she showed up in my feed (not my usual category) as I’ve been obsessing over decluttering lately. I’ve had enough! How did my phone know? I’ve been binging her videos in the last few days and I’m overjoyed. She is amazing! Her comments and editing are perfect, in addition to her content. I’ve already gone through a lot but the road is long and will be very bumpy along the way.
I totally understand that clutter makes noise. It's definitely visual static like an old off-air station after midnight. When I would wake up it was miserable to open my eyes and see all that STUFF. It's high time to work on my bedroom now.
Anyway, I enjoyed watching this. I just discovered you through a Short and was thrilled to see a longer vid. You have a pleasant style and it's easy to implement your ideas. Thank you, beautiful lady.
I love the special appearance of Olive! She is adorable! Thank you for so many great videos.
every husband should watch this to know what some of us go through everyday. Love the part about our things talking to us...so true.
Perfect timing for this video! I’m in the process of purging a lot of stuff. We just moved from a 3,000sf house to a 1300sf house and we came from a 6000sf house prior to that. Even though I downsized once, I still have 6000sf of stuff 🤦🏼♀️ so yes, I’ve been learning to downsize considerably and getting very creative with my smaller spaces.
We live in a 2300 square foot home and it is the largest home we have ever owned. I can't even fathom the upkeep on a 6000 square foot home! Do you love your 1300 square ft home?
@@embr4065 We sure do! It’s definitely easier to keep clean. And with less junk cluttering it up, it’s less stressful too! I can enjoy the 5 acres we live on and feed the fish and turtles in our lake. Beats cleaning all the time! ☺️
Omg exactly this: a relative is a hoarder and I told my partner that whenever we go to her house, I feel like her entire house is screaming at me 😅
Every time I watch an episode of hoarders it stresses me out so bad that I want to go through my own home and start cleaning and decluttering
@@jac4TH-cam I have to admit, as much as I hate going over, I ALWAYS come home and start purging 😅
@@jac4TH-cam Can totally relate. I can't take more than one hoarders episode at a time. Freaks me out. I run around gathering stuff to get rid of, even though my home is fairly clutter free and organized (but there's always room for improvement).
Your opening remarks about company visiting is SO ME, unfortunately. I'm working on it but it's a BIG task. I liked the analogy about an employee. If I'm not wearing it or using it but it's taking up space that would be better occupied by things I DO wear and use them in paying it too much!
The concept of our stuff judging us was one of the best approaches for me to purge a lot of stuff that never made prior donation piles! I know it's similar to sparking joy but also not really. Neutral is fine. Judgment (us against the item or the item against us) is a good tool.
I could so relate to this concept. I have a craft room full of "stuff". It weighs on me. I constantly think I need to use it or declutter it. It's always there. This is going to be my top priority. Declutter!!! I actually "organized" a couple years ago but have added more and there's no room! And now I've lost my organization. Thnx for the nudge! 😊
Love your TRANSPARENCY! I fully understand the “feeling like I’m failing” mentality even though I am “minimalizing” my home. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this!😊❤️
Moving abruptly to another country with just a suitcase and a backpack tells so much about “the necessary stuff” I need to live quite satisfyingly. Taking into account a bunch of art supplies as I’m a mandala artist.
I wish the rest of my family members were on board with this concept. I started getting rid of excess inventory thru various means: selling websites, donations, hand me downs. But while I'm very pleased with what I have accomplished, I have 3 other family members whose clutter and piles depress me. I try not to nag, but suggest for them to clean up, but more often than not it just sits for weeks growing into a bigger mess. ADHD is a big part of it as well I know (thanks Cas from Clutterbug) but it still weighs on my emotional well being too. Love your videos TFS❤️
@@rev.robynyoung7680 agreed, 2 of them are my teenagers and the other my husband-who has an extreme case of clutter blindness!
@@kimberlyreiter3213 If your husband is on board with cleaning, but is blind to his own clutter, try to make him scan the rooms like he has to describe it to a third person. Works wonders for my clutter blindness
Another way to help break clutter blindness is to take photos of the cluttered spaces and try to imagine you were a stranger viewing the room for the first time. Maybe that would help your husband see it?
I find that the minute I throw away my”just in case” I actually do need it!
Same!
All the time and it's so frustrating 😔
Yep. Moving this and that out of my way for a year decide to donate it and a week down the road... Dammit I need that thing...annoying.
Murphy’s Law strikes again lol
Has happened to me more than once...🤪
Yesterday I tossed manuals for appliances. I did it behind my husband's back. He'd have a fit. But in 18 years I've NEVER seen him pull out a manual for anything. And every manual is online now.
The only time I ever used the manuals for our appliances was when we sold the house and I put together a binder for the new owner.
I downloaded the manuals for what we own now, and so far, the only times I've visited those files is when I've replaced items and need to toss the old manual.
I'm betting he never notices that they're gone.
My husband has these stupid things too. I want to toss them but I have a strict no decluttering other peoples things policy. So I think they will move into his walk-in closet. (Mine is an accordion closet btw.)
After watching this, I immediately started decluttering my office. My problem is that I'm not always seeing the clutter until I look for it, even though it's right in front of me.
Again - you’re changing lives with your content! Thank you Kallie!!!
We are OVERHAULING all the stuff in our house because of friends moving in! Well, they move in Saturday! 😅😬😳 and while we have accomplished a TON there’s still more to go. . . Even now, while watching this video and eating breakfast, I’m thinking of all I need to do BUT not overwhelmed because of this mindset shift. I know how much lighter I already feel from all we’ve already done, so doing all we need to before Saturday is going to change our lives! 🥰 Thank you for the encouragement and just plain giving a rip about helping us move forward with functioning homes, decluttered stuff, and happier families.
A great practical video,so true about all the objects in the home calling for your attention which destroys the peace in the home and prevents the basic jobs of a clean floor and countertop being sanitized which causes more stress.While you’re attending all “the stuff”your baby is crying in a playpen etc clearing all the toys on floor.You Lose out on precious time with your children which is more stress!You always look beautiful but I’ve noticed you look even more refreshed and beautiful in this video....i think it’s because less stuff definitely less stress....it shows even on a persons face.keep up the great work and videos!thanks 💐
The thing in my household is when something gets replaced the item it is replacing is not being thrown away or donated. My husband likes to “ save “ and doesn’t like getting rid of things. He’s much better the last few years since he turned 60, lol
I’ve gotten rid of so much in the past year and my life is so much easier! Clothes, makeup, thousands of travel size or samples collected, paper, paper, paper…UGH! Utensils I’ve never used, just moving from one house to another for 25 yrs now! GONE! Given away, sold or thrown away. I know exactly what I have and where it is. FINALLY. Olive is so adorable!!!
Currently decluttering my son’s room so this is perfect timing!
Hi, I have been binge watching all of your TH-cam's about clutter, and I have decided it's time I declutter my small one bedroom apartment. It's like I've grown accustomed to the mess. But in reality I am ashamed of how my apartment looks and feels. I kind of decluttered the bathroom already but I'm really going to focus on letting useless things go if I can't find a home for them. Thanks for teaching me about clutter and organization.
I love your idea of the hidden to-do lists. It makes me realize how much stress I get just from sitting in my room as I see "things to do" EVERYWHERE. so true. I am inspired. I am sharing these videos with friends. Thank you.
For that thermometer I use it at least twice a year for long term monitoring or the stuffed turkey. One for the thick breast meat and one for the stuffing. I will not open the oven because it can add up to 15 minutes of cook time each time you peak in or adjust the coverings.
Excellent! My Valet drawer is now stored in a clear plastic over the door shoe holder-it is behind the bathroom door and I have a free drawer in the kitchen. Really just because I got tired of looking for stuff.
Thank you for not judging me for not being a minimalist, and making these extremely helpful videos for this self-described recovering hoarder. 🙂
I’ve had a minimal home 🏡 for a while now. So I didn’t notice how great it is until I went to my mom’s who’s not that minimal🙈
I can’t explain it scientifically 😀 but the amount of time I spent in her kitchen was overwhelming! How come I need an hour to clean after dinner 😨❗️
Wash 10 plates, 4 lunch boxes, 6 forks, wipe the surfaces picking up ALL that’s standing there.
Then it hit me! There’s simply too much stuff there to manage🔪👩🍳
Truth! You can live life if you’re always managing your stuff! I was blown away by the thought of your stuff talking to you!!! And it does! This clutters your mind! I don’t think I will ever be a “minimalist “ but I want to get really close! 🙃
I had a similar experience visiting my mom earlier this year. My kitchen isn’t minimal at all though I do have things kinda streamlined but visiting my mom, I could see how easy it is to feel overwhelmed by all the extra things we don’t need but have to care for.
I am curious. How exactly does it take less time to clean up a minimal kitchen after dinner? You need to clean the pots and dishes. It can't really be fewer plates, because only because you're a minimalist doesn't mean you share your plate with someone else.
I have been on my decluttering journey for years now and I want to become even better, but I really wonder if cleaning up a kitchen after a meal is really so different in a conventional and minimal kitchen. I'd be happy for some perspective.
@@claudiaheilmann4883 well, I can tell my story.
If you have one plate for a person, dishes don’t get collected from several meals. So, for each meal you’ll need to wash the plate/fork right away to use them next time.
And if you don’t have extra bowl you start putting food right in everyone’s plate without that transition to a bowl.
Also, my hubby and I do sometimes eat from a pan.
Also, if I have limited things for cooking I reuse stuff rather than take something specifically for one purpose.
Or I wash that one thing that I need right away before I need it second time, because I don’t have multiples.
That’s just my experience, sure, it can be different for everyone 😅
@@claudiaheilmann4883I have made some decluttering progress (finally) and here's what I have noticed. If you have fewer items, there is more room on the counter tops, which makes it easier to wash a dish and set it on a towel on a cleared off countertop. Also putting things away inside a cabinet is less stressful and more satisfying because there is plenty of room to put it away. So I used to absolutely dread putting things away even though I wanted all the things put away. Now I like putting things away because it's easy, and I get an instant high from the neat and tidy appearance. This has taken me years to achieve. I feel bad that I didn't know how to do this before. I have 6 kids. My oldest moved out 2 years ago, and that has helped. We still have some of his things in boxes.
Thanks for another really informative video. This just left me with the question...how much stuff is too much? It obviously depends on the size of the home. I've sorted cutlery, chinaware, bedding, towels, clothes etc and donated £100's worth of stuff to various charities which is very rewarding. But am still struggling with a collection of umbrellas, scarfs, trainers, boxes of tupperware, pots & pans and so many books. I've not bought unnecessary stuff for 2 years, but still have a dilemma knowing what's the least amount I should live with.
Love this!! Very true.. I am stuck in my room with Covid but when I’m feeling better I am really going to work towards decluttering my house. It ya asked too much energy to clean!
I remember the early videos. I don't know if you need to hear this, but I'm proud of you for accomplishing this goal you set for yourself :-)
What did she say at the beginning? I’m a newer follower. She’s fantastic! That’s so kind of you to tell her you’re proud of her. Even though I’ve just “met” her I am too. To do all this with young kids is mind blowing.
Girl, SPEAK! Over 5 weeks (NOT months) your encouragement has kicked me into some kind of autonomous mindset where I've been subliminally clearing the counters, tables, cabs and drawers throughout my day and even stopped by the $ Store for small containers and a neat two-tier sliding gizmo for the under-sink kitchen cab. Having experienced moves in/out of homes from 1200 to 3500 SF, and having arrived to the 538 SF Studio where I've comfortably lived for 10 years, I can attest that everything you advocate is true. I've been orderly and organized throughout moves and life changes however, the smaller my dwelling needs, the more important it's become to push myself into making necessary decisions about 'stuff' and what it costs to keep it, store it, and take care of it when it's clear that although I love my 'stuff', I no longer use it as I once did. I've been able to turn beloved items into gifts and donated things I no longer use/need to folks who do - there is no shortage. You've reignited an awareness that helps me keep my life organized and I thank you.
["Valet Drawer" is my new fave term and -- as a postscript from my house to yours -- keep the 2nd thermometer, it doesn't take up enough space to warrant needing a costly replacement down the road in case of breakage, loss, etc. It's good to have a few 'just in case' things. Mine are taped in labelled envelopes to the underside of a desk/countertop above drawers or to the wall of cabs - a smallish 'just in case' space where I don't see it but know it's there] - Love your spirit and energy, you've set me back on a trail I wouldn't have gotten to without you sharing your journey and encouragement. You're an outstanding presenter, btw.
One of the best compliments I ever got was from my sister when she said, your house is always company ready. I don't have clutter. My house is organized and cleaned and I am always ready for company. Of course I don't have small children at home anymore but the less junk you have the easier life is.
Feeling so called out in this video 😂! One of my favorite videos from you and so relatable! My mom might be coming up this week and I kinda freaked out thinking about all the things I need to organize/clean/put away. Yep it’s time to start decluttering because I have too many employees!
I'm in the process of moving and I'm looking at everything asking why in the world do I have this and why am I keeping it. Especially with kids they accumulate so much stuff in only a year. Watching your videos have given me the motivation to decludder so much and it feels so good to let go.
Thank you so much for all your advice and encouragement and all your wisdom you share with us ! Our Daisy has been thriving on The Farmers Dog food too ! She has cancer and it’s given her pep back in her step !!!!!!! ❤️😊
Before watching "minimalist" videos it was really hard to break up a set of anything. Now if I only need one, or two in the set that is what I keep.
I have purged things and very shortly after I was in need of them. Ex: My weight goes up and down. I purged a lot of too big clothes, 6 months later I needed them and had to buy new ones. Now I just box them up and put in the attic.
I have been engaged in a slow declutter (aka death cleaning) for a while. so I'll be ringing that bell up there. TIA!!!
Thank you for this timely piece - lots of gems!
3 of my grandkids attended a wonderful Playschool from 3-5ish, and the kids loved those magnet blocks!
I was our family classroom volunteer, and after a couple of hours free play, we'd spend 5-10 minutes on clean up, and with the great organization systems and that daily attention, the kids could buzz through the areas they chose to clean when they came in!
It taught them (and me!!) a lot about having well chosen and stewarded items and supplies. Adults ran the vacuum and started the dishwasher (they served their own snack, and bused their dishes)
I love it when I have less clutter and am more organized so a 'bumblebee' is more of a tidy! I got behind the last couple of years - working toward a move so it's overhaul time!
This is a great way of thinking about stuff - as employees. The minimal mom really helped me get rid of 50% of our stuff and our life has been so much easier since then - her slogan "managing inventory" really helped. However, it never worked for me with kid's toys (our girls are 10 months and 2 1/2). So we are drowning in toys while the rest of our apartment is so manageable. I'll start decluttering toys again, this time thinking of them as employees - I'm really hopeful that I will get this under control after all 😆 thank you for this video
I started to get the incorporating my 3yo into an annual pre-Christmas declutter of her toys as she grows she is learning to choose some toys she no longer plays with and “give them” to another baby who might like to play with them. I tell her she’s making space for any new toys she might get as a present. She’s now 6 and regularly goes though her toy stash and makes decisions about what to keep and what she’d like to donate.
Oh my God! I was trying different methods to keep my house clean and tidy and always put a timer on 30min, but it wasn't enough and now I know why. It was because of the clutter. If I didn't spend so much time on putting away all the clutter, I would be able to finish in 30minutes. Thank you! Your videos help me so much and I'm in the beginning, but I see a way to win this war.
I grew up with the mindset that bigger quantities are cheaper and "save it just in case" but then I find myself throwing these things out or donating years later when I could have bought the smaller pack or just get rid of some things from the beginning. Thank you! I love your videos
Good-bye things is one of my all time favorite books!
Boy do i relate to this …….. well NOT the motherhood bit.
But the tidying up when ppl come over. Thanks for the practical advice ,
You made me get up and vacuum!! I “try” to minimize and have slightly succeeded, But not there yet. Sentiment gets me every time! Love your videos❣️
As an autistic person I find declutter and organizing very overwhelming and I'm sure most people do but I never know where to start and its very difficult for me to part with stuff so this was a great way to think about things and explain it love your content very helpful thanks for all you advice and motivation this gives me a clear idea of what items I can purge from my room/life
Things to think about, never thought of my stuff that I probably don't need as a employee. Like that idea now it will be easier to let go of stuff.
AMEN!
I lived without stuff for about 2 months because we moved to where the military sent us and it gave me the most freedom I ever had I was extremely happy. Seeing the the stuff fill out every room did not make me happy moving into a bigger house has made me somehow have more clutter and now I struggle to sleep when u used to sleep like a baby.
I like the idea of your stuff being noisy. I have heard this concept as well. I think tuning into that is an interesting experiment. Silent to do list for the things being noisy.
It’s clear this video was and is relatable to so so many!! Every single word I agreed with and have & /or am in that position!! Keep fighting the good fight
I've been selling a lot on Poshmark lately. It feels so good to declutter and purge.
This video was life-changing. I saw my kitchen counters for the first time in years. Thank you!
Love your videos. Working on finalizing kitchen organization inch by inch. Two lazy susan’s and it’s a wrap. Loving the freeing feeling.
Bravo! I agree with you; not to tag oneself ¨being a minimalist¨; it avoids ostracizing others (from what they are not doing, believing); avoiding judging. It is choosing a simple life! :))
Just grab a box, put all extra pieces for certain items in there and put in your basement. I can’t count the number of times I wished I hadn’t gotten rid of something cause I called it junk and then later realized I needed it. But I also put a price amount on the item, if I can afford to get a new one then I will get rid of said item or if it’s easy to find again. Somethings you just can’t find anymore.
I don't have a basement and live in less than 200 sq ft. I'm learning that I don't have the space for too many "just in case" items anymore. Getting rid of these things is a continuous process for me in order to keep the clutter down.
We switched to The Farmers Dog 8 months ago for our two dogs, GREAT decision!!! So worth it, healthy food for their good health!
You really manage to explain concepts in ways that connect with me, thank you so much for the help
Such good advice! (Keep the extra thermometer probe. The temp probes wear out and it's nice to have the extra, instead of replacing the thermometer, which will come with an extra probe). :D Kitchen gadgets could be a blind spot for me tho! ymmv
I’m on the second day of a clean sink! 👏🏼 really grateful for your channel!
I get so excited every time I see a new video of yours pop up! You are such an inspiration!!! 🤍🤍🤍
Thank you!!!! First, for laying crucial Principles & then explaining them throughlyI really needed your explanations and way of clarification!! Enlightening!
Great way to think about all this stuff. Thanks.