I love how realistic this was :) I often do spaces over a few days, especially ones involving paper because they take a lot of brain power and decisions!
All of those cords and old electronics can be recycled. If your municipality doesn’t offer electronics recycling you can take them to Staples or Office Max or Office Depot-it’s free, and it keeps it out of the landfill.
I didn’t know that about the cords! Thanks for the suggestion! I still have the big pile ready to be thrown out, so I’ll take them with my old electronics to be recycled. Thanks!
We're 3 people in a 2BR condo. My crafting supplies are in 3 bins. Important papers are in a small cabinet. I recycle and toss every day. Then there's a box for Goodwill at least once a week. I also have a bag for the e-recycling, and one for the animal shelter. Tina, Al's wife
I love how you thought it wouldn’t take long to go through the file drawer but it took longer than you expected. So true! New sub here. Thanks for sharing your journey.
In 2018 we had a 7.3 earthquake here where I live in Alaska. My home office was hit the hardest in our house. I closed the door and just left it. I would go into it with the intention of cleaning it out but would be shortly overwhelmed and leave. This past summer (2023) I went in and took everything out and reorganized it so that it is totally functional again. What a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. I recently did the 30 day minimalist game declutter challenge and that felt great. Getting rid of clutter and organizing is so rewarding. I thoroughly enjoyed watching you declutter your office. Great job!!
Thank you! Was the earthquake during the summer? I ask because I’m pretty sure that was the year we were in Kenai getting ready to go home (eating dinner before our flight) when there was an earthquake. We were all gathered around the table and the cabin started shaking. It’s funny because the washing machine or kids jumping in the back room would make the whole cabin shake. So at first we thought it was one of those! 🤣 It was probably the end of July. My husband’s family owns a commercial salmon fishery so I’ve gone to Kenai for many summers! I remember another earthquake there a few years ago. I was sitting in our cabin in a rocking chair and I remember just feeling a little weird. It was really subtle! And it lasted for a couple minutes. I saw the door swinging slightly so I figured it was an earthquake. I asked my daughter if she was feeling anything and she agreed. Anyway, we didn’t have any damage with either so I’m sorry you did! Thanks so much for watching! ❤️
I moved 4 years ago. We brought so much stuff to our new home. 2.5 years later, as I continued to unpack and organize, I realized this stuff hadn't seen the light of day for 3.5 years (packed early to show old home). The declutter journey began. Today I finished getting everything off my CD's. Although CD's are supposed to degrade between 6-12 years, I was able to recover my first scientific technical presentation from 1998. It was made in powerpoint (the CD), but printed onto overhead projector plastic for actual presentation. Good times. Now I have digital clutter for 15 years from now as a retirement project. I shall clean the cloud.
I recently started watching your channel (shout out from Midwest Magic Cleaning). I love your videos. I appreciate your step by step, realistic way of working towards minimalism as you have defined it for yourself. I feel more empowered to define this for myself, staying open to the journey. You are a gem 💎
I just started following you! I’m also documenting my decluttering journey on UA-cam. It’s a very vulnerable thing to put yourself and your things out there for public scrutiny. You’re doing an amazing job!
Paper clutter is the boss enemy!! 😭 I love that you showed and explained/commented the stuff! Many tubers don't do that and I always think it's a bummer.. 😊 New subscriber. 😄
Fortunately, my office is in a separate building on my property. It is organized! In my house the room that gets cluttered is my craft room. I plan on spending time this afternoon organizing it while listening to an organizing podcast. Thank you for showing us the progress you made. Loved seeing "A Very Hungry Caterpillar " in the keep pile. It was a favorite of my boys.😊
My office is the worst. I finally figured out that I have to get rid of so much more stuff in order to keep my office from getting cluttered again. It finally has hit me why it keeps getting cluttered after I get it all cleaned out... You have really inspired me to be ruthless and get rid of stuff, especially the stuff that I might need again and wouldn''t cost much to replace IF I ever really needed it.
Giiirrrlll! This could be my office in the basement!!!! I have an office upstairs which I'm converting into a hobby room, so I'm working on creating a functional office in the basement for my business. It's soooo much work, and like you I have papers that are 20+ years old. Paper clutter is the worst! I'm so happy I found your channel today. The timing is perfect as we head into the new year, and I love how relatable you are. Thank you for the inspiration! ❤️
Good job! Recycling electronics and things like that are good. I’m clearing and organizing my basement. What a relief to get that stuff out of my house!
So glad I watched this video. I need to declutter, clean, organize and decorate my home office, too. Mine is a mash up hand-me-down items and non-sense. I spend the majority of my day in my office for thr past 8 years so it's time for change! Thanks dmfor the inspiration to start
Keep those things in case you have grandchildren! I got rid of so many Little Tikes and Fisher Price toys after my kids outgrew them. I am now deeply regretting it. Grandchildren never entered my mind. Hang on to whatever you can.
I just came across your video. It is so refreshing to watch someone not overthink things and just move on. I am a big believer of pitching things. A few things I’ve regretted, but if I needed it, I will rebuy it. Which was only a few times. Looking forward to more of your videos.
Just woke up this morning, early, on my day off, thinking about my new year and wanting to declutter.I came across your video first thing. Your video is sooo relatable! When you pulled out that wad of cords,I was like oh my there is someone out that has the same kinds of things to deal with as me! Alot of times decluttering videos are people shuffling around a few little piles of stuff NOTHING like the messes i need to tackle.Thank you for sharing your journey, I'm excited to follow along.THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SHARING! NEW SUBSCRIBER HERE FROM N.C. now back to watching.Happy New Year!
I did think of that. I have used them in other spaces before. Now that I’m realizing I need organizers in this office, I should have kept them! Lol. Oh well.
I’m halfway through your video and you just became my decluttering hero. You are tackling a lot of the very same (CDs) or similar (books and broken things) I’m trying to tackle. I think I might have what it takes to keep pushing forward on this mess but I’m certainly keeping this video and subscribing lol Thank you 😊
Thank you for this one! It´s an ongoing process. My paper clutter is going once a year, since I started 2003. It is relieving. Wish you all the best and an almost clutterfree home in 2023
Before Christmas took a load of electronic stuff to Best Buy to recycle. Good to get it out of my home. Today shredded paper while catching up on UA-cam and Hulu. Oh and I saw you can sell empty apple product boxes. Who knew?!
Happy to have discovered your channel! I too have begun the minimalist lifestyle and find so much inspiration in UA-cam. I'm a parent of 2 teenagers who have really embraced the idea as well, now just to get my husband on board...thank you for sharing and I look forward to watching all your videos ❤️
Thank you! That’s great your teens are on board. I have one who seems to do well with it. And one of my daughters LOVES clothes, which makes it hard to keep her room clean. Haha. I’ll just try being an example. 😬
I love your office declutter! Thank you for sharing. We are working on our basement which is solely my husbands space. We have so many similar things to your office! Dead laptops, extra cords, bike lock because everyones bike needs to be secured in the basement!
Hi Ali! I needed some office decluttering motivation, so I searched up this video! I have been missing you and I'm hoping you are ok. Have a good week my friend! ❤
Aw thanks Gail! I’m doing good and getting ready to get back into a normal schedule and back to making videos. My kids went back to school a couple days ago! Yay! But now I have Covid. Sigh. That’s life!
@reallifewithali I'm glad you are planning to do more videos - I'll be here when you do! I'll be praying for you to feel better very soon. Covid is the worst!
Thanks! I definitely am not perfect and probably half the time it sits in my house until I can finally get it in the car! Lol. Or we put it in the car and then have to take it out because we need the trunk for something else and I hadn’t donated it yet. 🤣 But it will eventually work it’s way to the donation center!
Lovely relaxing take on decluttering and minimalism. I have this on in the background while I sort out my pen drawer for the first time in 12 months! Thankyou for the office decluttering inspiration. I recently got rid of old diaries from my teens (I'm 50). It was a great purging experience. I hosed the diaries down so the pages got wet and the ink ran and then after they dried they would have been all stuck together so no one could ever read again. I dont regret this.
If I had to show things to my husband, he would keep all of it. I have to declutter when he's not home and put things in my trunk right away. He has been known to go thru the trash can and pull things out😉🤷♀️😂
Mine is very similar! Although, I think he has seen me do it so much over the last couple years and has seen the benefits. We went through a few of the piles I put aside and he got rid of probably 80% of it! I was so proud. 😬
Yes! It’s really hard to get rid of! It’s taken me a few years to get rid of most of mine. Now if I can get my husband on board, that would be nice! I posted a video about paper clutter a few weeks ago! If you want to check it out, here’s the link: Paper Clutter Piling Up? TRY THIS!! ua-cam.com/video/aXqL1AHyrVM/v-deo.html
Well done. That was a lot of hard work and a lot of decisions in a short space of time. I find my capacity for paper decisions are quite small. So I only do it in tiny bites.
Thank you! I have another video where I pile all the papers in a laundry basket to go through later. I ended up grabbing a small pile at a time to go through until the pike was gone! It made it easier, for sure!
I know. I feels so great to get rid of all that. I recycled close to 100 cassette cases. The plastic might not be todays quality, but I hope they were able to be recycled.
I'm only about halfway through but it looks like things could be simplified for you a lot if you added a fifth bin for things you need your partner's input on. Then you can see a more accurate view of what is actually keeps from the room.
Great video! Very motivating. Thank you! I would have liked to see if your husband got rid of anything. My husband won’t let anything go. Borderline hoarder. So frustrating and stressful.
I totally understand the frustration! Yes he got rid of some things. I had to talk him into some things. It’s taken years for him to get to this point though. I’m sorry!
I’m glad I found your channel. I’ve been working on simplifying off and on for a number of years. It’s been quite a while since I went through my office. This has inspired me to go through it again.
"I Love You Forever"...one of my faves! I also think I saw familiar CD's...REM and Counting Crows? haha. And funny story...The old Apple charger you showed...Well, I decluttered two of those not knowing what they could possibly go to and about a week later I found an old Ipod that I wanted to hear the music from...but figured out I needed the charger(s) I had let go of! Went to the Salvation Army where I had dropped those off a week earlier and had to REBUY my own old charger in order to hear those tunes....haha! Ughhh!
New subscriber…I love your easy calm voice and and manner. I’m looking forward to watching your other videos and ones to come. I have a lot of decluttering and organizing to do which I’m looking forward to doing. I actually love the process and seeing how it turns out. Take care.
To keep paper under control, I invested in a Freedom Filer system. It is color coded, so you know when to remove and shred something. It helps to keep the files and drawers from bulging with too much paper. When I set up my system, the labels allowed you to keep papers for 10 years. So, the documents for cars we no longer owned and 25 year old tax returns were shredded. I took 12 bags of paper out of my office! Just one room and I am still not done. Also keep bins for organizing that you find in one space, so when you're ready to organize, you can shop in your house. Then, if you need more you can buy them.
@@reallifewithali It's been great especially because it's so easy to restore. I most of 6 months in a hospital and nursing home due to blood clots and colon cancer, so I had a year's worth of paper to sort and file. I have one pile of things to do tomorrow and I'll be done. Then I do an annual clean out after taxes for my 10 year files and I'll go through the other files to remove things that got lost in the cracks.
@@reallifewithali so far I'm doing okay. My tests are showing no additional cancer. I've lost nearly 40 pounds and when I lose 100, the surgeon said he'll take out my colostomy bag.
Great video! My first time watching your channel and I instantly subscribed because I'd like to see what's coming next. You did really good. Keep it up!!!
I enjoyed this video so much! I think I need to get a paper shredder and start clearing out my space! Papers are everywhere! Loved the 4th relocate box. I have so many boxes to recycle that have been in the garage for ages. Happy to subscribe! 💖
I just shredded three kitchen bags of papers while visiting a close relative for the holidays. It made a HUGE difference to cleaning up the top of her desk and cleaning out a few files. Please get a quality shredder. Much success to you!
Although I’ve only been using this shredder for a few days, it seems to work well! I don’t have anything to compare it to though since I haven’t owned one before. Maybe down the road I’ll invest in a nicer one! Way to go to shredding so much paper!
How do you get rid of your electronics such as laptops? I struggle with my craft/quilt room especially this time of year. I wrap presents in there and do yoga so there is tissue paper and the like everywhere. I can't even see my sewing tabletop. I guess after Christmas I will be busy decluttering this area once again. I really enjoy your videos and look forward to more of them. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!
Thank you! I think we will need to take the old laptops to an electronics store because I think you’re not supposed to throw them in the garbage. Enjoy Christmas and then get your craft room decluttered! Come back and show me your before and after pictures. I’d love to see them.
This is great motivation, thanks! Have you heard of Dana K White here on UA-cam? I like her method of taking items where they belong now so you don’t make a bigger mess when decluttering and end up with piles. But I understand we all have different preferences and energy levels
Thanks Molly! Yes I watch Dana K White. She has amazing tips! Sometimes I use her method, sometimes someone else’s, and sometimes my own! Haha. I guess it’s whatever mood I’m in. 😬
I need to take 2022 files to keep into large file folder and get rid of the oldest one. I tend to keep files for tax purposes for 5 years. Then I need to straighten up file drawer with some new folders, ready for 2023. I have kept my office area as decluttered for several years. My husband's areas are his to take care of and I overlook it. What do you do with electric typewriter that hasn't been used for a long time? Goodwill will not take it.
Office clutter makes me want to scream! I was an English teacher for over 40 years & retired years ago. I have gotten rid of a lot of stuff, but I have more to tackle. Re: those high school notebook dividers, if it makes you feel better, I have handouts from when I was in 4th grade. 🤣🤣🤣🤣😳😳😳 I’m pausing watching now that you’ve finished the filing cabinet so I can get to work before I go down the endless video watching path. I’ll be back.
Two of the thrift shops in my area will take old cords. Every time I go in,I check for the one I need to charge my old IPAD one more time to get old photos and contacts. Guess what? I would give my eye teeth for the one that you held up at 12:00.😬😖😵😵💫
Very useful video one problem I have among many is what do we do if for ex I made a college project and have 2 or 3 copies I don't want to throw and someone sees in trash and uses my work for his project don't know know if it makes sense
Just came across your vlog. You inspired me to start decluttering in the New Year. It was helpful to see your office as it was. Looks very similar to the state of mine. I am now a new subscriber.
Hi! I just recently did a huge "photo" project that has been so effective and such an improvement. If you are interested, just let me know & I'll tell you what product I used.
How does your office look? Do you need a good declutter like me? If so, let's get it done together!! Thank you so much for watching! I referred to this video several times: ua-cam.com/video/PUpwV2aznY8/v-deo.html.
I actually recycled a lot. I may have said it was going in the trash, but it’s either garbage or recycling. All of the electronics and cords were recycled.
I liked that you did some decluttering, but was disappointed to see you made no effort to recycle some things like your electronics. E-waste is a big problem, and you took the easy way out. From the looks of it, you live in a large urban area where this would have been possible since many municipalities take it. Disappointing video.
Most of the electronics I put aside to take to Best Buy to be recycled, including all the cords and the 2 laptops. I definitely made an effort. Thanks for watching,
I have a very cluttered craft room. I started going through my paper collection the other day. It’s a long process, but it kick-started a new project which is nice because I’ve been in a creative slump for a while.
I love how realistic this was :) I often do spaces over a few days, especially ones involving paper because they take a lot of brain power and decisions!
Thank you!
All of those cords and old electronics can be recycled. If your municipality doesn’t offer electronics recycling you can take them to Staples or Office Max or Office Depot-it’s free, and it keeps it out of the landfill.
I didn’t know that about the cords! Thanks for the suggestion! I still have the big pile ready to be thrown out, so I’ll take them with my old electronics to be recycled. Thanks!
We're 3 people in a 2BR condo. My crafting supplies are in 3 bins. Important papers are in a small cabinet. I recycle and toss every day. Then there's a box for Goodwill
at least once a week. I also have a bag for the e-recycling, and one for the animal shelter. Tina, Al's wife
Sounds like you have a great system for keeping clutter under control! 😀
I love how you thought it wouldn’t take long to go through the file drawer but it took longer than you expected. So true! New sub here. Thanks for sharing your journey.
Thanks! I’m so glad you’re here. 😀
In 2018 we had a 7.3 earthquake here where I live in Alaska. My home office was hit the hardest in our house. I closed the door and just left it. I would go into it with the intention of cleaning it out but would be shortly overwhelmed and leave. This past summer (2023) I went in and took everything out and reorganized it so that it is totally functional again. What a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. I recently did the 30 day minimalist game declutter challenge and that felt great. Getting rid of clutter and organizing is so rewarding. I thoroughly enjoyed watching you declutter your office. Great job!!
Thank you! Was the earthquake during the summer? I ask because I’m pretty sure that was the year we were in Kenai getting ready to go home (eating dinner before our flight) when there was an earthquake. We were all gathered around the table and the cabin started shaking. It’s funny because the washing machine or kids jumping in the back room would make the whole cabin shake. So at first we thought it was one of those! 🤣 It was probably the end of July. My husband’s family owns a commercial salmon fishery so I’ve gone to Kenai for many summers! I remember another earthquake there a few years ago. I was sitting in our cabin in a rocking chair and I remember just feeling a little weird. It was really subtle! And it lasted for a couple minutes. I saw the door swinging slightly so I figured it was an earthquake. I asked my daughter if she was feeling anything and she agreed. Anyway, we didn’t have any damage with either so I’m sorry you did! Thanks so much for watching! ❤️
I moved 4 years ago. We brought so much stuff to our new home. 2.5 years later, as I continued to unpack and organize, I realized this stuff hadn't seen the light of day for 3.5 years (packed early to show old home). The declutter journey began. Today I finished getting everything off my CD's. Although CD's are supposed to degrade between 6-12 years, I was able to recover my first scientific technical presentation from 1998. It was made in powerpoint (the CD), but printed onto overhead projector plastic for actual presentation. Good times. Now I have digital clutter for 15 years from now as a retirement project. I shall clean the cloud.
Wow! Way to go!! I have a CD with pics from my daughters first grade class. I tried to see what was on it a while ago and didn’t see anything. 😢
I recently started watching your channel (shout out from Midwest Magic Cleaning). I love your videos. I appreciate your step by step, realistic way of working towards minimalism as you have defined it for yourself. I feel more empowered to define this for myself, staying open to the journey. You are a gem 💎
@@lorrianalee3833 Aww, thank you! ❤️
I just started following you! I’m also documenting my decluttering journey on UA-cam. It’s a very vulnerable thing to put yourself and your things out there for public scrutiny. You’re doing an amazing job!
Thanks Nicole!
I subscribed to you, Nicole
Every teacher would love the Post-Its.
I bet!
Paper clutter is the boss enemy!! 😭
I love that you showed and explained/commented the stuff! Many tubers don't do that and I always think it's a bummer.. 😊
New subscriber. 😄
Thank you!
Apple boxes make amazing drawer organizers. Sturdy, nice straight sides.
It’s true! I did consider that at one point. 🤔
Fortunately, my office is in a separate building on my property. It is organized! In my house the room that gets cluttered is my craft room. I plan on spending time this afternoon organizing it while listening to an organizing podcast. Thank you for showing us the progress you made. Loved seeing "A Very Hungry Caterpillar " in the keep pile. It was a favorite of my boys.😊
Craft rooms seem to be a big offender of clutter! I hope you make good progress on yours. 😀
@@reallifewithali I managed to organize and declutter my craft room as planned. All in 1 hour!
@@cynthiaslebodnik6945 Wow! That’s impressive! Way to go! 👏🏻
I’ve found that iPhone boxes are great drawer organizers 😊 thanks for the motivation!!
It’s true! I thought of that a little too late. Thanks for watching! ❤️
I have been on a huge decluttering benge. We moved into this big house 2 1/2 years ago...and the closets are packed!! Not any more!! It feels great.
Way to go! Thanks for watching! ❤️
My office is the worst. I finally figured out that I have to get rid of so much more stuff in order to keep my office from getting cluttered again. It finally has hit me why it keeps getting cluttered after I get it all cleaned out... You have really inspired me to be ruthless and get rid of stuff, especially the stuff that I might need again and wouldn''t cost much to replace IF I ever really needed it.
Thanks, Lisa! It can be hard, but it’s so worth it! Good luck!
Giiirrrlll! This could be my office in the basement!!!! I have an office upstairs which I'm converting into a hobby room, so I'm working on creating a functional office in the basement for my business. It's soooo much work, and like you I have papers that are 20+ years old. Paper clutter is the worst! I'm so happy I found your channel today. The timing is perfect as we head into the new year, and I love how relatable you are. Thank you for the inspiration! ❤️
Thank you so much! I would love to see how your hobby room and new office turns out! You can do this!
@@reallifewithali Thank you for the encouragement! It is overwhelming for sure. I am looking forward to seeing how your office turns out too!
@@gaild9003 Thanks!
Good job! Recycling electronics and things like that are good. I’m clearing and organizing my basement. What a relief to get that stuff out of my house!
It is such a relief!
Just found your site! LOVE IT! You are having way too much fun here! It will help me clear my junk! THANK YOU!
Oh I’m so glad! Thank you! ❤️
So glad I watched this video. I need to declutter, clean, organize and decorate my home office, too. Mine is a mash up hand-me-down items and non-sense. I spend the majority of my day in my office for thr past 8 years so it's time for change! Thanks dmfor the inspiration to start
Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it. Let me know how it goes for you!
Keep those things in case you have grandchildren! I got rid of so many Little Tikes and Fisher Price toys after my kids outgrew them. I am now deeply regretting it. Grandchildren never entered my mind. Hang on to whatever you can.
I have thought of that and I am keeping the smaller items that we loved. I kept Little People and some smaller train sets.
I just came across your video. It is so refreshing to watch someone not overthink things and just move on. I am a big believer of pitching things. A few things I’ve regretted, but if I needed it, I will rebuy it. Which was only a few times. Looking forward to more of your videos.
Thank you, Rita! ❤️
Just woke up this morning, early, on my day off, thinking about my new year and wanting to declutter.I came across your video first thing. Your video is sooo relatable! When you pulled out that wad of cords,I was like oh my there is someone out that has the same kinds of things to deal with as me! Alot of times decluttering videos are people shuffling around a few little piles of stuff NOTHING like the messes i need to tackle.Thank you for sharing your journey, I'm excited to follow along.THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SHARING! NEW SUBSCRIBER HERE FROM N.C. now back to watching.Happy New Year!
Hi Tammy! I’m so glad you enjoyed the video and I’m so glad you’re here! ❤️
If you are going to get rid of old computers be sure to charge them and clean off any personal information.
Good suggestion! Thank you.
Apple boxes make great organisational drawer dividers!
I did think of that. I have used them in other spaces before. Now that I’m realizing I need organizers in this office, I should have kept them! Lol. Oh well.
I’m halfway through your video and you just became my decluttering hero. You are tackling a lot of the very same (CDs) or similar (books and broken things) I’m trying to tackle. I think I might have what it takes to keep pushing forward on this mess but I’m certainly keeping this video and subscribing lol
Thank you 😊
Thank you! You can definitely push through! We’re here to support each other!! Thanks for watching and subscribing. ☺️
Terrific video! I got rid of our giant pile of cords about a year ago. Since then, we've only replaced one of them! Win!
Thanks Robin! Way to go!
Thank you for this one! It´s an ongoing process. My paper clutter is going once a year, since I started 2003. It is relieving. Wish you all the best and an almost clutterfree home in 2023
Thank you! “Almost” is the keyword here. 🤣 It’s nearly impossible to have it completely clutter free with 4 kids! Lol.
Before Christmas took a load of electronic stuff to Best Buy to recycle. Good to get it out of my home. Today shredded paper while catching up on UA-cam and Hulu. Oh and I saw you can sell empty apple product boxes. Who knew?!
Really? You can sell them?! Crazy. Good job getting things done!
Happy to have discovered your channel! I too have begun the minimalist lifestyle and find so much inspiration in UA-cam. I'm a parent of 2 teenagers who have really embraced the idea as well, now just to get my husband on board...thank you for sharing and I look forward to watching all your videos ❤️
Thank you! That’s great your teens are on board. I have one who seems to do well with it. And one of my daughters LOVES clothes, which makes it hard to keep her room clean. Haha. I’ll just try being an example. 😬
I love your office declutter! Thank you for sharing. We are working on our basement which is solely my husbands space. We have so many similar things to your office! Dead laptops, extra cords, bike lock because everyones bike needs to be secured in the basement!
You have a bike lock in your office too? 🤣 I thought I’d be the only one. Haha.
Hi Ali! I needed some office decluttering motivation, so I searched up this video! I have been missing you and I'm hoping you are ok. Have a good week my friend! ❤
Aw thanks Gail! I’m doing good and getting ready to get back into a normal schedule and back to making videos. My kids went back to school a couple days ago! Yay! But now I have Covid. Sigh. That’s life!
@reallifewithali I'm glad you are planning to do more videos - I'll be here when you do! I'll be praying for you to feel better very soon. Covid is the worst!
Great video. My “office” is my craft room and it needs decluttered and organized so much!
Thanks! Craft rooms can be hard too. You can do it!
Love that you told us its going in your car to be donated!😀
Sometimes i think the last step is skipped in decluttering videos. 😉
Thanks! I definitely am not perfect and probably half the time it sits in my house until I can finally get it in the car! Lol. Or we put it in the car and then have to take it out because we need the trunk for something else and I hadn’t donated it yet. 🤣 But it will eventually work it’s way to the donation center!
Lovely relaxing take on decluttering and minimalism. I have this on in the background while I sort out my pen drawer for the first time in 12 months! Thankyou for the office decluttering inspiration. I recently got rid of old diaries from my teens (I'm 50). It was a great purging experience. I hosed the diaries down so the pages got wet and the ink ran and then after they dried they would have been all stuck together so no one could ever read again. I dont regret this.
Thank you! It’s a lot of work, but totally worth it!
Love your ideas. Just discovered you as part of your help at Mira's. Am enjoying your past videos !
Thank you!
If I had to show things to my husband, he would keep all of it. I have to declutter when he's not home and put things in my trunk right away. He has been known to go thru the trash can and pull things out😉🤷♀️😂
Mine is very similar! Although, I think he has seen me do it so much over the last couple years and has seen the benefits. We went through a few of the piles I put aside and he got rid of probably 80% of it! I was so proud. 😬
Cyd in MD. You inspired me to do some of the tasks I've been wanting to do. It's been a fun morning.
Thank you! I’m glad you are here. ❤️
I love this!! I have so much paper clutter but alot of it holds memories so it's hard to get rid of
Yes! It’s really hard to get rid of! It’s taken me a few years to get rid of most of mine. Now if I can get my husband on board, that would be nice! I posted a video about paper clutter a few weeks ago! If you want to check it out, here’s the link: Paper Clutter Piling Up? TRY THIS!!
ua-cam.com/video/aXqL1AHyrVM/v-deo.html
Well done. That was a lot of hard work and a lot of decisions in a short space of time.
I find my capacity for paper decisions are quite small. So I only do it in tiny bites.
Thank you! I have another video where I pile all the papers in a laundry basket to go through later. I ended up grabbing a small pile at a time to go through until the pike was gone! It made it easier, for sure!
Don't forget the recycle bin for metal and electronics.😁
Ya, I forgot to put the metal discs in the recycling. 🤦🏻♀ But I kept the electronics to be recycled at a local store.
And Apple boxes! Those are sturdy. 😁 I got rid of a bunch of them. It’s hard to when they are so nice 😆
@@rebeccam1027 Ah! Those too. Oops. Sometimes I just want it out and don't think about it. 😬
I know. I feels so great to get rid of all that. I recycled close to 100 cassette cases. The plastic might not be todays quality, but I hope they were able to be recycled.
@@reallifewithali I can understand that!
I’m in the process of getting my multi purpose room functional! Great video thanks !
Thanks and good luck!
I'm only about halfway through but it looks like things could be simplified for you a lot if you added a fifth bin for things you need your partner's input on. Then you can see a more accurate view of what is actually keeps from the room.
That would have been smart! Haha. I definitely should have done that. 🤦🏻♀️
Great video! Very motivating. Thank you! I would have liked to see if your husband got rid of anything. My husband won’t let anything go. Borderline hoarder. So frustrating and stressful.
I totally understand the frustration! Yes he got rid of some things. I had to talk him into some things. It’s taken years for him to get to this point though. I’m sorry!
I have just found your video and received some great tips. Thank you for sharing, as I begin the office decluttering task in the morning.
I’d love to hear how your office declutter goes!!
I’m glad I found your channel. I’ve been working on simplifying off and on for a number of years. It’s been quite a while since I went through my office. This has inspired me to go through it again.
Yay! I’d love to hear how it goes. Good luck!
I needed this, thank you
Thanks for being here!
I saw the box of post it’s and as an educator I was like, “IT’S A TREASURE BOX!!!!!”
🤣
I need to do the same to my office! Great inspiration to get going!!
Thank you! You can do it!
Found you today, you are a keeper!
Aww, you are too kind! Thank you. ❤️
"I Love You Forever"...one of my faves! I also think I saw familiar CD's...REM and Counting Crows? haha. And funny story...The old Apple charger you showed...Well, I decluttered two of those not knowing what they could possibly go to and about a week later I found an old Ipod that I wanted to hear the music from...but figured out I needed the charger(s) I had let go of! Went to the Salvation Army where I had dropped those off a week earlier and had to REBUY my own old charger in order to hear those tunes....haha! Ughhh!
That is hilarious about the charger! haha. Counting Crows as my favorite for a long time! Thanks for watching. ❤
Some piles are harder than others but good for you for being selective about what to tackle in the moment (eg books, photos, cords)
Thank you!
New subscriber…I love your easy calm voice and and manner. I’m looking forward to watching your other videos and ones to come.
I have a lot of decluttering and organizing to do which I’m looking forward to doing. I actually love the process and seeing how it turns out. Take care.
Thank you, Lisa! I appreciate your kind words.
I so feel you on the husband thing. 😂
Right?! 😂
I’m so glad I stumbled across your channel. I’m doing a huge whole house declutter and this video is great motivation!
Thank you!! Good luck with your declutter. I’d love to hear how it goes! 😀
To keep paper under control, I invested in a Freedom Filer system. It is color coded, so you know when to remove and shred something. It helps to keep the files and drawers from bulging with too much paper. When I set up my system, the labels allowed you to keep papers for 10 years. So, the documents for cars we no longer owned and 25 year old tax returns were shredded. I took 12 bags of paper out of my office! Just one room and I am still not done.
Also keep bins for organizing that you find in one space, so when you're ready to organize, you can shop in your house.
Then, if you need more you can buy them.
I’ve heard of the Freedom Filer system. Do you like it? I bet it feels good to get that much paper out!!
@@reallifewithali It's been great especially because it's so easy to restore. I most of 6 months in a hospital and nursing home due to blood clots and colon cancer, so I had a year's worth of paper to sort and file. I have one pile of things to do tomorrow and I'll be done. Then I do an annual clean out after taxes for my 10 year files and I'll go through the other files to remove things that got lost in the cracks.
@@karenrich9092 I’m sorry you had to spend 6 months in the hospital and nursing home. I hope your cancer is in remission.
@@reallifewithali so far I'm doing okay. My tests are showing no additional cancer. I've lost nearly 40 pounds and when I lose 100, the surgeon said he'll take out my colostomy bag.
I wish I could buy your train!! My husband could fix that for sure. Great job on decluttering - I'm doing the same.
That’s tempting! That’s nice your husband could fix it! Good luck with your decluttering too! 😀
Lol! I have the same chair arms and laptops and CD holders…..they just need to go now!
Yes! Get them out! 😆
Great video! My first time watching your channel and I instantly subscribed because I'd like to see what's coming next. You did really good. Keep it up!!!
Thank you! ❤️
Best Buy recycles electronics ^_^ nice job!
Thanks!!
I really enjoyed your video. I definately decided to subscribe! Looking forward to your journey. Well done!
Thanks Terry! I’m glad you’re here.
You really got a lot done. Hi from Manila, Philippines.
Hello! Thanks for stopping by!
Awesome job!
Thank you!
I enjoyed this video so much! I think I need to get a paper shredder and start clearing out my space! Papers are everywhere! Loved the 4th relocate box. I have so many boxes to recycle that have been in the garage for ages. Happy to subscribe! 💖
Thanks Vicki! I just bought a paper shredder on Amazon for around $30. It works great and I'm so glad I bought it.
I just shredded three kitchen bags of papers while visiting a close relative for the holidays. It made a HUGE difference to cleaning up the top of her desk and cleaning out a few files. Please get a quality shredder. Much success to you!
Although I’ve only been using this shredder for a few days, it seems to work well! I don’t have anything to compare it to though since I haven’t owned one before. Maybe down the road I’ll invest in a nicer one! Way to go to shredding so much paper!
How do you get rid of your electronics such as laptops? I struggle with my craft/quilt room especially this time of year. I wrap presents in there and do yoga so there is tissue paper and the like everywhere. I can't even see my sewing tabletop. I guess after Christmas I will be busy decluttering this area once again. I really enjoy your videos and look forward to more of them. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!
Thank you! I think we will need to take the old laptops to an electronics store because I think you’re not supposed to throw them in the garbage. Enjoy Christmas and then get your craft room decluttered! Come back and show me your before and after pictures. I’d love to see them.
@@reallifewithali Best Buy, Staples and your local municipality all take e-waste.
@@plynn136 Thanks! That’s good to know.
I’m new and binge watching, wow you have lost weight, congratulations, you look great 😊
Thank you!! 😊
Ha ha! My husband has so many cords etc and it’s so overwhelming to go through 😬. So, it ends up accruing in a box with more and more cables
Yup! My husband looked at the pile and said, "throw it all away." YAY!
Dang! You are lucky. Mine stares at it and wants to go back to it another day which calculates to months🤣
You needed an ASK bin 😂because now you have to sort thru your KEEP bin again ❤
I know! 😆
This is great motivation, thanks! Have you heard of Dana K White here on UA-cam? I like her method of taking items where they belong now so you don’t make a bigger mess when decluttering and end up with piles. But I understand we all have different preferences and energy levels
Thanks Molly! Yes I watch Dana K White. She has amazing tips! Sometimes I use her method, sometimes someone else’s, and sometimes my own! Haha. I guess it’s whatever mood I’m in. 😬
I need to take 2022 files to keep into large file folder and get rid of the oldest one. I tend to keep files for tax purposes for 5 years. Then I need to straighten up file drawer with some new folders, ready for 2023. I have kept my office area as decluttered for several years. My husband's areas are his to take care of and I overlook it. What do you do with electric typewriter that hasn't been used for a long time? Goodwill will not take it.
I’m not sure what you would do with an electric typewriter. Maybe you can try and sell it?
@12:43 what is that thing you found? I have one of those and don’t know what it’s for haha
It’s a key to a lock on some doorknobs.
Office clutter makes me want to scream! I was an English teacher for over 40 years & retired years ago. I have gotten rid of a lot of stuff, but I have more to tackle. Re: those high school notebook dividers, if it makes you feel better, I have handouts from when I was in 4th grade. 🤣🤣🤣🤣😳😳😳 I’m pausing watching now that you’ve finished the filing cabinet so I can get to work before I go down the endless video watching path. I’ll be back.
4th grade?! Haha. It happens to the best of us! You’ve got this!
And you taught for 40 years? That’s amazing. Thanks for teaching!
@@reallifewithali it was an honor & what I was put on earth to do!🙏🏻💕
Are those NYL magnets?
Yup!
Two of the thrift shops in my area will take old cords. Every time I go in,I check for the one I need to charge my old IPAD one more time to get old photos and contacts. Guess what? I would give my eye teeth for the one that you held up at 12:00.😬😖😵😵💫
Oh dang! I’m really surprised that you can’t find one!
@@reallifewithali oh,I’m sure everyone else considers it a dinosaur too and throws it out! 🤣😂😅
Very useful video one problem I have among many is what do we do if for ex I made a college project and have 2 or 3 copies I don't want to throw and someone sees in trash and uses my work for his project don't know know if it makes sense
Maybe you could shred it? 🤷🏻♀️
Another problem is when u want to declutter and things belong to other family members and have to co-decide
It’s hard! Especially when they want to hang onto a lot.
I still have ALL my APPLE boxes 😂
Haha. Girl, throw them out! 😆
Part 2 please
Sure! Thanks for watching. 😀
Kids often play better and longer with less so don’t stress about keeping too many toys
❤️
Just came across your vlog. You inspired me to start decluttering in the New Year.
It was helpful to see your office as it was. Looks very similar to the state of mine.
I am now a new subscriber.
Thanks Sally! I’m so glad you’re here!
Where and what size is your drawers with all the folders in
The filing cabinet? It’s a wide 3 drawer filing cabinet. We’ve had it for years. Is that what you are talking about?
@@reallifewithali yea think so
@@zoepoeloe amzn.to/3CdlEd6
This is similar to what we have!
Can you recycle burnt 💿.. does anyone know? I hate to just toss them. I have a ton.
I imagine you can! I did recycle a lot of mine!
Hi! I just recently did a huge "photo" project that has been so effective and such an improvement. If you are interested, just let me know & I'll tell you what product I used.
Yes please,tell me!🙌🏻
Get rid of the file cabinet!
I’m going to! 👏🏻
How does your office look? Do you need a good declutter like me? If so, let's get it done together!! Thank you so much for watching! I referred to this video several times: ua-cam.com/video/PUpwV2aznY8/v-deo.html.
Had to stop watching. Too stressful to see you trash and not recycle.
I actually recycled a lot. I may have said it was going in the trash, but it’s either garbage or recycling. All of the electronics and cords were recycled.
Whew 😅! THX!
I liked that you did some decluttering, but was disappointed to see you made no effort to recycle some things like your electronics. E-waste is a big problem, and you took the easy way out. From the looks of it, you live in a large urban area where this would have been possible since many municipalities take it. Disappointing video.
Most of the electronics I put aside to take to Best Buy to be recycled, including all the cords and the 2 laptops. I definitely made an effort. Thanks for watching,
I have a very cluttered craft room. I started going through my paper collection the other day. It’s a long process, but it kick-started a new project which is nice because I’ve been in a creative slump for a while.
That’s awesome! I love when one thing you dread helps spark ideas for something you love! Keep it with with decluttering those papers!