personally, I have enjoyed using OmniFocus on my apple devices and Both the old 2010 and the new versions of OneNote. I love OneNote 2010 because I can slice and dice my next actions and print them out on paper for certain kinds of projects. I'm very visual and somethings are just best when I can see them. I love the new one note because I can create really pretty and professional planner pages to use either online (especially if I embed links), and printed out so I can write them on the go. I can make them to fit pretty much any size planner. Sometimes I just Print my basic design for Cornell notes and print it on exactly the weight of paper that I want… Or even on the back of scratch paper because it's not something I want to keep. Saves a mint compared to what I would buy from other planner page companies whose templates don't necessarily suit the way I want to see my information. omniFocus is what I use most on a daily basis. It's a great rapid Inbox tool. It's also my day at a glance tool. It goes with me on my phone everywhere. Granted, It would be much, much better if I had an Apple Computer for the bigger view, for the ability to use a regular keyboard with it, but the 80 bucks or so that I spent on it years ago has paid off in spades. I like it because: --It is GTD friendly --I can see items on my calendar pop up on my "today" along with any tasks that I have set for today. This is Really nice because it's easy to add reminders if there is a list of tasks I want to accomplish that snap into chrono-order, as prep before I head to an appointment. --On my today screen I can also view all the contents of any given tag. (Tags are like contexts in the GTD system.) You can make as many or as few tags as you want. You can file them into folders if you go crazy with them. You can order them so that you can see your most frequently used tags at the top of the choice screen. --I can create projects in the project section and there are multiple ways to order the steps of the project, because sometimes They have sequential steps, sometimes there are parallel mini projects, and sometimes it doesn't matter what order the tasks go in. it makes it easy to see what the next action is if I want to limit my view of what is on my plate --Projects can be grouped under folders, as can tags. Folders and subfolders can go as deep as you would like. Simpler is usually better in my opinion. --The big deal about OmniFocus is the ability to create perspectives. Some are created for you, but you can customize and create customized perspectives to suit your needs. you can create almost any permutation do you want from tags, folders, projects, order of appearance, whether you want to limit it to next action, available actions, all actions, completed actions, duration (if you like adding duration to your tasks), date added, date created, date due, looking for tasks that contain keywords, or don't contain them. -there are a number of people online you can follow for inspiration on their OmniFocus workflow process. Or you can just keep it simple. - as with GTD, you can easily create projects or tags specifically for jotting down information on the go. I like to have a copy of my proof of liability insurance, and other documents that might be helpful, handy in OmniFocus, not dependent on apples cloud. -I presume this is true of most programs, but it is very easy to use keyboard shortcuts. I incorporate tagging function via naming conventions into the way I write my tasks quite frequently, and I can do that with a couple of keystrokes. it makes it easy to call up either or both the type of activity and the physical context I need to execute. or I can call up everything I consider "notes @" With or without a topic added to it like "health:". Thoughts and ideas captured on the go are easy to find and synthesize in OneNote and/or OF for immediate action or future consideration. - I also like that I can send things from any email into my OmniFocus inbox. And again, it is very easy to Use naming conventions which bypasses the need to put tags on a lot of things. -I also like being able to send links to the app from webpages, UA-cam, and various other platforms, where to upload photos that give me the needed information and links to complete tasks. --I don't use it but it also has a location function that helps people who need to remember to do certain errands when they happen to be in the Neighborhood where that errand can be done. -it is also a nice place to store quick reference information without depending on Apple's cloud because OmniFocus has its own cloud. if I change phones, (I have a love-hate relationship with Apple). I can still have the information on my iPad or get an Apple computer to use on that. The downside is also that it is primarily for Apple, though it does have a very limited web-based app that I don't use. I love productivity experts like Tiago Forte, Who has a fascinating backstory as to why he developed the concept of building a second brain. He has some nice videos on the various digital notetaking/productivity apps and some clues as to which ones might suit different kinds of thinkers. One more thing I love about OF, but it is not available anymore. --They are continuing to support the nonmembership version but I bought back in the day (I hate the idea of paying subscriptions for my software!) OneNote is still free these days but the new version absolutely sucks when it comes to their tags. Practically useless. I want my 2010 version to last forever.
One mistake people make a lot with mail is leaving it in the envelopes even after they’ve opened it. They maybe don’t know what to do next or don’t want to deal with it right away so they tuck it back in the envelope. But if you take it all out you can usually recycle the envelope, and often at least half of what’s inside, even if you have to keep the bill or letter. Going through in law’s mail from decades past about 60% could’ve gone into the trash the day it arrived! We reduced the volume to sort, shred or keep so much by immediately taking it all out and trashing the envelopes.
I keep mine because it keeps me organized plus i write the due date & when its paid, I write the confirmation#. I do get rid of the ads & envelopes inside. It's only two monthly bills everything else is paperless & online. My goal for March is to remove this monthly method. I wish I knew about doing the digital clutter yrs ago. I try to do it periodically & have unsubscribed a lot.
This is an annoyance of mine when I help my mom with her mail. I see why she does it (to keep the papers together or sometimes avoidance), but it adds a bit of time when I’m filling and declutter and essentially need to open the mail again (and make sure there’s nothing important left in the envelope). There’s often unnecessary return envelopes and inserts not related to the main statement, which reduces the pile drastically.
i do the wardrobe declutter twice a year and i kept two coats for 5 years despite not fitting into them anymore and many have told me to toss them, but i didnt, i loved those coats and they were really expensive, i gained weight due to a medical issue a lot of it and didnt fit into a lot of my clothes anymore, last winter i wore those coats for the first time in 5 years! it made me really happy and those coats were a constant reminder of my goal of loosing the weight again, im still not fully there yet but i also am still recovering but im happy i fit in them again although not 100% comfortably yet.
I imagine the BIG smile on someone's face when they receive my clothes donation. It helps me declutter items that I never even wore and were "just in case" I need it for a business meeting etc. If I haven't used it in the last six months or year, donation time. Thanks for sharing these tips. Hardest one for me is shopping and policing my urge to impulse buy......
That’s what keeps me motivated to donate even things I could sell. I heard someone get so excited because they found a newly released WFPB Vegan cookbook and I THINK she said she paid .50 cents for it. I myself had just received my copy from Amazon and knew the price. And that’s what I think every time… in fact, I just dropped off a brand new 2024 planner from a well known company that I never used… hopefully someone will be excited.
@@debbyjo123 Yesss. For something to be in my possession that's just taking up space, it might as well be used to bring someone else joy and happiness.
1. Deal with mail as soon as you walk in the door. 1.5 Sign up for the Do Not Mail list (link in description). 2. Use bins for things that you just toss and/or don't stack, especially if you have children. 3. Tidy for 10 minutes before bed. 4. Declutter periodically, not just once. 5. Use drawer organizers and dividers. 6. Avoid the use of storage units if what you really need is to declutter. 7. Declutter your digital devices too, e.g., files, photos, accounts you follow on social media. 8. Know what kind of person you are and how you bring in clutter. 9. Make a plan before you declutter. Where will you take the items you declutter? 10. Practice mindful and intentional shopping.
I just did that, the behavior evaluation. I noticed that I had extra chores to do because I was bringing paperwork upstairs to do while watching TV with my husband. That spawned A portable table, pens and water bottles on it, and something else to clean up if I wanted a tidy and peaceful space upstairs. Even worse, I was too tired to do the paperwork sometimes! New rule, don't take any paperwork or projects upstairs. Don't take anything upstairs that I'm going to be annoyed about cleaning up later. I already had a "no food upstairs" rule, but had not noticed what a bother it was to try to "improve my productivity" by dragging stuff upstairs.
PAINT #2! Sherwin-WilliamsJustHelpedMeBigTime - I was purchasing some new paint in a dark color and asked Sherwin-Williams with they could/would add dark color to my leftover paint so I could use it as a first coat/primer. THEY DID IT! So remember that you can use old paint as a primer especially if it is a neutral that works well under what you're planning to put on your wall. I was so pleased that Sherwin-Williams helped me keep things out of the landfill.
@ The Organized Soprano that was my first reaction to, but then I thought no, as much as that kind of downtime may seem like a waste, but when in public spaces it's good to be aware of your surroundings and be in the moment.. pick pockets Love distracted people. Just a thought.
00:00 🏡 Mail organization is crucial to prevent clutter buildup; deal with incoming mail promptly. 02:47 🗄 Utilize bins and dividers to keep items organized and prevent clutter accumulation. 04:31 ⏰ Implement a regular tidying ritual, even for just 10 minutes a day, to maintain cleanliness. 06:49 🔄 Declutter periodically to adapt to life changes and ensure your space reflects your current needs. 08:16 🛠 Drawer organizers are essential for maintaining order and preventing clutter in drawers. 09:55 🏠 Reconsider the need for storage units; avoid them if possible to prevent hoarding unnecessary items. 11:18 📱 Declutter digital life regularly to minimize virtual clutter and maintain digital organization. 12:58 🤔 Be honest about your organizational habits and preferences to find systems that work for you. 15:07 📝 Make a decluttering plan and know how to responsibly dispose of items to avoid clutter buildup. 16:34 🛍 Practice mindful shopping to prevent unnecessary clutter accumulation and maintain an organized space.
on one of my moves i didn’t declutter before moving, life was busy and it was a quick move….so we put things in a storage unit….then after almost a year i went to clear it out, it was basically useless stuff…we were paying to store things we wouldn’t even use again. It was donated or thrown away.
I host clothing swaps at least annually, and whatever doesn't get picked, i list for free on local groups. I don't want it getting resold, but if no one is interested in a week or two, then the stuff gets donated. I find this helps my friends let go and declutter bc often they just don't know what to do with their stuff, or they keep putting it off. Having a clothing swap on their calendar, with snacks and chitchat and free new-to-them shopping helps them go through their stuff though, and it's a win all around.
I have been decluttering for YEARS now. And I'm still getting rid of things. This will be the year though where I get into some areas I have been avoiding and finally be free of some things that just do not belong in my house. Ex. I have 3 bins, 2 that contain items from high school and mementos and another that was full of old mail, an old purse full of ALL THE THINGS, and so much more. I just went through the latter this weekend and I can't believe all the strange things I found (including a handful of Hershey Almond Kisses that must be 8 years old)! I got rid of most of it, trashing and shredding most of the paper and added some items to a box that will be donated. If anyone were to come into my house they would think it almost looks unlived in, or maybe one of those showcase houses, but I have my dark deep cluttered spaces just like everyone else. LOL
lol, candy is off of my useful food list, and has been for some time but… For a moment I thought "what a great idea to have Hershey's kisses where I process my mail to make it more fun and interesting!" 😅
I donated all my clothes i didn't wear any more and didn't fit. I also donated unused glasswares, knic knacks, and such. I donated all my craft supplies. I shredded and trashed all old bill statements, receipts,letters, etc. Im moving, so less to move, and more space in new place. I do not like clutter.
My husband is so well-organised and I am so messy. For him it’s so natural and I’ve been feeling awful about being so messy for a long time. the more I watch these sorts of videos the better I feel because I don’t feel so alone any more like I am the one messy exception. I feel so seen. Thank you
Today, my partner and I had a 🎶 Fashion Show At Lunch! 🎶 It's so much fun! And in the end, we have a lovely pile of clothing to donate, consign or toss. If only I could get him to approach his mail that way.. but we've settled for an organization system that works for him. 💕 I used to poo poo on the idea of bins, but I started actually implementing them into my kitchen space. I used them already in my drawers to sort undies and such, but never thought they'd be worth it in my kitchen, which has 10" wide drawers. I was so wrong... Things just store differently in a bin idk. Great video, Kay!
"leave every room better than you found it." Is one of my favorite rules, along with "tidy up now as if guests are coming" because invariably I find myself immersed in fascinating work and going back to tidy something up doesn't necessarily happen. This helps me avoid the pre-guest rush when people come over each week.
I declutter every day: mail, boxes, unused items. I stopped getting thrills from shopping: less stuff I have to declutter. It feels so good to have clear spaces. I was blessed with parents that didn’t accumulate stuff. It’s made it easier to keep an organized and tidy home. I enjoy your videos and I still learn and apply what I learn.
I have watched a lot of people who are organizers on UA-cam, honestly I feel like you are a breath of fresh air! You are the most realistic person I have watched ! I do struggle with clutter as we all do , granted there are things that are not mine in the space so I cannot control those items but what I can control does help me feel organized in a sense. I use drawer dividers in my dresser, I need better ones but they are doing their job ok, it does help keeping the underwear drawer a lot less chaotic
I love bins, because if it doesn't fit nearly in the *designated* bin - then either the bin needs purging, or it *might* be time for a new category-bin. DEFINTELY love putting my knives into sleeves & into my drawers - steak knives go w/ the basic cutlery, work-knives go in the drawer w/ the other cooking tools.
I just want to tell you I subscribed to your channel the moment that I began watching this video because of your happy and vibrant personality. Just instantly improved my mood. ☺️
Another GREAT video… we can always learn something about decluttering because this is something we will always need to do. Sadly, it’s not a once and done. Thank you for this concise information and inspiration!! BTW, your hair looks great… of course, it always does.
Bin by the door -- LIFESAVER (or at least clutter-buster)!!! The end of the day cleanup -- se ask children to do this on the daily. Why would we think that we don't have to do it as adults? Making some SOLID points today. I'm here for it!
I think it's really important to understand your own psychology and how you actually live in a space. I'm amazed that people check the mail daily! I check once a month hahaha. That makes it way easier to deal with so it's not a regular thing that I have to worry about. Nothing in there is urgent. I also don't make my bed unless I'm changing the linens. It's my least favorite task and also the least important one to get done every day.
Definitely find your rhythm, but… There are things in the mail that, if you miss it, you'll be sorry. Jury summons. Important expiration dates that you've forgotten, News of the death of a loved one that isn't very close to you but still you feel like a heel when it takes you a month to respond…
That's what informed delivery is for! Nobody is mailing me news of a loved one though. My family and friends communicate via phone before mail 100% of the time. @@bitrudder3792
I forgot to add that leaving your bed unmade can be very healthy. I know that sounds like heresy, but expos in your linens to fresh air and daylight is a good thing unless the air in your house is full of dog hair and chemicals!
I am getting better at getting rid of things and not holding on. If I buy something I ask myself do I really need it and where is it going or does it have to be stored.
I love these tips, and I incorporate them into my lifestyle. ❤❤❤. Your content has truly inspired me to live the best life when it comes to tidiness and being clutter free. Decluttering is my most favorite thing to do on a regular basis.
Hi 🌻new subscriber here! thank you for all those good suggestions! my main challenge is "paper anything" ... there is the cookie monster and for me it is the paper monster! lol you have such a friendly and open energy about you, it is a pleasure spending time with you! my gammy would have loved your channel! she was an amzing organizer, planner and cleaner. Her motto, when someone said they just dont feel like doing a certain thing was (and i still hear her voice each time i feel like that): "well, then I have fantastic news for you, because feeling like doing it, is not required or needed...just do it. end of story." ... lol
I remember an afternoon decluttering knives with my MIL keeping me company: after sharpening them And testing them on different food stuffs, It was easy for us to see which ones were worthy of keeping and I whittled them down to just what would fit in the knife block that I had picked out at the Container Store: a wooden block that sits inside of a drawer. The proof of a good organizing choice is that it still works after many, many years. I'm super happy with this choice! I've probably had it for about 7-10 years now. 😁
Thank you for those links to stop the offers and junk mail. My husband and I both filled them out. Since I’m the one who goes through and shreds the mail, I really appreciate getting less mail!😊
"Extras" sounds like "exceptions" for me. Just can't figure out what I would do with T-shirts if they're not part of my core items, which is often listed. I love that you don't do that. There's the day to day stuff that people see (tops/bottoms/dresses/shoes) and then dress clothes and workout clothes are the "extras" which make sooo much more sense to me! Thank you! I wonder: do you have a separate X-item wardrobe for dress clothes and/or without clothes? I find i have many dress up clothes that I only ever wear to church, so there's no reason for me to have that many. On the other hand, at home I like wearing the same one or two comfy bottoms and just change the tops.
I deal with mail daily, but I hate when I go away and have to deal with piled up mail. I have decluttered alot since retiring, but it seems stuff is still too much. I have also used drawer organizers in both the bedroom and kitchen and can now find stuff more easily and am using stuff I forgot I have. 😊
Stopped this video five minutes in to put away my purse, decide on a shirt donation (resulting also in a shirt return!), and separating out some mail that needs to be dealt with! Thank you for the motivation 😃 Edit: Btw, dealing with mail right away has been the tough one for me, but mainly because I still don't fully know what to do with certain pieces when it comes to filing. Hadn't fully thought that through in a while and am grateful for the reminder -- it's a great example of the importance of planning that you talked about as well! ❤️
Cheap drawer divider: cut up Amazon/cardboard boxes. Cover the exposed edge with painter's tape or wash tape for a smooth edge. Works surprisingly well and takes little time.
PAINT! The recycling center advised me to fill used paint cans with kitty litter to absorb the paint, seal the can and dispose of it whole, Or I could pay them to do something similar at a much higher price.
Great tips thank you! I love to make my bed but my husband and I are on opposite schedules so sometimes this does not get done until its almost bedtime again, but it is a must for me!
Getting phone #'s & info where to dispose/discard ahead of time is a WONDERFUL idea 🎉 Planning for success so we're not sitting there like what do I do with this stuff 🤔
Great video with lots of useful info! ❤️ All of your list are hard to me but mail piling up and the shredding of my personal info becomes daunting. I also still haven’t mastered the bins because I throw things in them which then looks messy.
I lived abroad for a combined total of 8 years, in 3 different countries, all islands which meant I inevitably had to fit all my things into a suitcase plus shipping 1 or 2 boxes. This really helps tame the clutter. You'd be surprised how much you can live without.
I found the mail piled up really quickly until I found a place by the door for a paper recycling bin and another for non-recyclable rubbish. Now, 90% of the mail can be dropped into either of those and the rest feels so much more manageable. The hardest thing for me now is probably getting stuff out of the house - there is a beautiful lake near our local recycling centre, so I try to do a 'decluttering trip' when I have enough time for a walk round the lake after. Having that to look forward to is an incentive to get the job done.
For incoming mail/info/packages: The way I like to be ready for mail is to have the following handy: -Ink roller to obscure sensitive information on packaging that goes in the trash -Shredder or a designated folder or lap file section for things that need to be shredded - recycle bin or designated file/lap file section pages to recycle -File or lap file section for paper that I want to re-purpose (I do a fair amount of scribbling as I think about different kinds of projects… I Scrabble and then I can shred or recycle) -file or lap file with sections if I can't deal with something in the moment: invitations, bills, Things to file, estimates, coupons I might use, things I need to read but don't want to read right now, Whatever you need for your own life dictates the categories and how complicated you want them to be. - Charged up phone With digital app so I can quickly make that call or respond to a voice message, text or email quickly, pay Bills or make a quick purchase, jot down a reminder of expected arrival dates, add warranty expiration reminders, air print some receipts, enter tasks, projects, event details and a quick photo of an invitation, maybe even add the address so it links through to the map when I need it, And to deal with incoming texts that require action at the same session - computer - To quickly research anything I am interested in if I have time, to take notes using my full-size keyboard, to pay bills if I prefer to do it from there, and print things that don't easily print from the phone - paper planner & pages - Jot things down here (Often with pencil or Post-it notes) because I'm very visual and I like to see a month at a glance etc. make a note of bills paid on a chart so I can see what has or has not been done at a glance. - This is also A good time/place to go ahead and process what has accumulated in my wallet in the way of transactions, receipts, notes, business cards, or put them in a lap folder for later. -stationary and postcards and stamps and nice pens for writing answers or just encouraging notes to people on the fly, so it's ready to go right into the mailbox All of this stuff accumulates so fast, It really helps do you have a system that makes the process really smooth whether or not you can deal with it as soon as it comes in, or if you have to go back to it later in the week or month. If I do nothing else, paying bills the day they come in is most important to me, followed by anything else that will weigh on my mind until it is done. I know that I am one of those "out of sight, out of mind" people: Dealing with important items as soon as they arrive and having Visible tabs to show me what sections I've got is super helpful for me.
My command center is in an old baby wardrobe just inside the door where the mail enters the house. I replaced the hanging rod with adjustable shelf brackets and a single shelf. In the bottom I added a grommet to run an electrical cord through so I could put a small shredder there. I have a bin with monthly financial folders for paid items above the shelf. The bottom two drawers hold paper recycling bins. The top two drawers hold checks, office supplies and greeting cards. There is a shallow wooden bin on top for the latest copy of a couple of favorite catalogs I still receive and a page a day type calendar. When mail comes in I open it and shred any junk mail with personal information. Bills and their return envelopes or invites with RSVP or event reminders get paper clipped to the date I plan to pay or respond. Bill inserts or ads without personal information and outer window envelopes go into the recycling bins. It takes less than 5 minutes to handle the mail because I only have to sort it when it comes in. In the morning when I tear off yesterday’s date from the calendar I handle the items attached to today’s date, which is often nothing but if there is something it takes just a minute or two to handle.
Thanks for taking the time to make this video the hardest thing for me is knowing all of the different locations for taking the stuff so I’m glad you brought that up in the past I’ve had things in my van to get rid of but didn’t really know where to take the stuff 🤷🏽♀️so that is a nice reminder to create a list 👍🏾
Thank you! This has been more helpful than a lot of other organizing videos I have seen. I had a light bulb moment during the video that I could just get a bin to put my family shoes in. They are piled on the floor by the door and I keep meaning to get one of those benches with shoe cubbies but honestly, my family is more likely to throw them into a bin than have to slide it in a cubby. New subscriber!
Just found your channel. This is my third vid. LOVE IT!!! You seem so real and organized, and your voice is good on the ears too (although being a professional soprano, I would think it should be!!!) Thank you for your channel!!!
💯 on number 4/ 7/9/10. I recently did number 7 because it frees up storage. Number 10 is a must if you in small and tight spaces because you have to be aware of dimensions.
Just stumbled upon your channel with this first video. First of all LOVE the content. Second of all LOVE the Zelda shirt. Third of all, you're a Boston based girlier?! You've found yourself a new loyal follower. Can't wait to watch more of your videos!
I tend to keep some stuff around where I hang out the most. It depends on what it is and if I think I'll use it soon whether or not I put it away. I do have a home for everything and I don't bring in more than my small home can fit and I feel I need.
1. I have a P.o. box and leave junk mail at the post office and bring a marker to cover my identity. 2. Get rid of boxes or not even bring them inside because they house bugs and vermin eggs or roaches. 3. I make a list of tasks on my cel phone and put check marks next to it. 4. I buy precooked meats so I don't have to deal with samonella, save on cooking time and not deal with food poisoning from undercooked meats and save on utilities. 5. I take out the trash while walking my dog. But then I broke my leg and it went downhill while recovering.
Bills can all be switched online. If you have a physical mailbox attached to your house, post a sign stating no junk mail and/or put junk mail directly into recycle.
Cereal boxes. The cardboard is good for making dividing up in your other drawers. I have a drawer for my socks and other under garments. I used the front and back of a cereal box cut to length of the drawer, and then folded them in half with the cereal stuff on the inside of the fold so it is plain cardboard on the side touching the clothes. Then the drawer has a smaller edge usually at the back of the drawer, so measure it and cut the cardboard folds that deep or slightly shorter to fit in the drawer and then use to separate your stuff as you want. You can also use them sideways in the drawer too, not just front to back like I do. But you might need two boxes and then to have two sides per row, and maybe attach them together if you’re looking at them being more permanent. Staples or glue, something like that, though if using staples, put the open side of the staple towards the clothes that won’t snag on them.
Thank goodness my complex has a big garage bin right at the mail boxes so, what I do is go through quickly the junk mail from bills so that junk mail never even enters my home. Then I can handle my bills and not have junk mail clutter.
I’m totally someone with sparse cabinets. I don’t even have a storage closet. But yet everything gets put back/away, everything has a place! But if you came into my space you would probably assume I have a lot of stuff. Big aquarium, indoor garden along a large wall with 75 house plants. All very aesthetically pleasing. But open closets and drawers and I have very little. My sister is the opposite and she “appears” more minimalist but I feel I am too just we are in opposite ways!
Mail and electronic clutter/since my husband/I retired (age 68/70), do not like fooling with this. I laughed about the storage unit! My husband has rented one for decades - last time I visited was about 15-20 years ago and vowed to never go back! 😉
But y’all are still paying for it? Why not just donate/trash it? I promise your family will appreciate it in the long run if you don’t leave them with junk and clutter to sort and clean up for you. Especially if you don’t even care for it.
I don’t even bring the mail into my house… open it next to the garbage can outside and only bring in the actual bill, coupon, card etc. if needed. Then those things that you actually need are the only things that come in and go into a tray or get paid immediately. If you only need it for reference to look at account numbers or invitations or whatever, take a pic on your phone and shred it immediately. Signing up for everything to be paperless that can be is also helpful.
This was really helpful and informational, I can work on so many areas. I think it would be good for to actually show the clutter in certain areas and how and what you would use to resolve the issue or make it better. I guess more physical visuals of how you can correct and organize things. Thank you Very Helpful!🥰❤️🙏🏿
I recycle papers and bottles, but I will never have the bandwidth to save up broken cords until I have enough to make it worth my while to put them anywhere but the trash.
This may help someone else. I open my mail the same or next day with my phone calendar open. I add due dates and also follow up calls. I know my blocks of times/days that I will have a moment to print something or find a receipt. I also schedule deadlines for gift buying and it’s been a game changer.
Mail-I do not bring it out of my car the envelopes all go in the garbage and the important papers come and the rest stays in the car trash,until I’m ready to go to the convenience and empty my trash best thing I ever came up with!
is there a way to stop mail soliciting donations? i literally would donate to stop them. i dont like donating because it results in more mail. can it not be done electronically?
That is an excellent question. I don’t have an answer right now but I will look into it for you and update in a future video! I receive these kinds of things too but they are not random. Thanks for your comment!
Do you recommend an app or resource that would clear years of email clutter? I would love to refresh my email and then keep up with it regularly. There are many options online but I’m afraid some are scams.
What is the app you use for digital decluttering?
Thank you for reminding me! Gemini! apps.apple.com/us/app/gemini-photos-gallery-cleaner/id1277110040
Thank you!!
personally, I have enjoyed using OmniFocus on my apple devices and Both the old 2010 and the new versions of OneNote.
I love OneNote 2010 because I can slice and dice my next actions and print them out on paper for certain kinds of projects. I'm very visual and somethings are just best when I can see them.
I love the new one note because I can create really pretty and professional planner pages to use either online (especially if I embed links), and printed out so I can write them on the go. I can make them to fit pretty much any size planner. Sometimes I just Print my basic design for Cornell notes and print it on exactly the weight of paper that I want… Or even on the back of scratch paper because it's not something I want to keep. Saves a mint compared to what I would buy from other planner page companies whose templates don't necessarily suit the way I want to see my information.
omniFocus is what I use most on a daily basis. It's a great rapid Inbox tool. It's also my day at a glance tool. It goes with me on my phone everywhere. Granted, It would be much, much better if I had an Apple Computer for the bigger view, for the ability to use a regular keyboard with it, but the 80 bucks or so that I spent on it years ago has paid off in spades.
I like it because:
--It is GTD friendly
--I can see items on my calendar pop up on my "today" along with any tasks that I have set for today. This is Really nice because it's easy to add reminders if there is a list of tasks I want to accomplish that snap into chrono-order, as prep before I head to an appointment.
--On my today screen I can also view all the contents of any given tag. (Tags are like contexts in the GTD system.) You can make as many or as few tags as you want. You can file them into folders if you go crazy with them. You can order them so that you can see your most frequently used tags at the top of the choice screen.
--I can create projects in the project section and there are multiple ways to order the steps of the project, because sometimes They have sequential steps, sometimes there are parallel mini projects, and sometimes it doesn't matter what order the tasks go in. it makes it easy to see what the next action is if I want to limit my view of what is on my plate
--Projects can be grouped under folders, as can tags. Folders and subfolders can go as deep as you would like. Simpler is usually better in my opinion.
--The big deal about OmniFocus is the ability to create perspectives. Some are created for you, but you can customize and create customized perspectives to suit your needs. you can create almost any permutation do you want from tags, folders, projects, order of appearance, whether you want to limit it to next action, available actions, all actions, completed actions, duration (if you like adding duration to your tasks), date added, date created, date due, looking for tasks that contain keywords, or don't contain them.
-there are a number of people online you can follow for inspiration on their OmniFocus workflow process. Or you can just keep it simple.
- as with GTD, you can easily create projects or tags specifically for jotting down information on the go. I like to have a copy of my proof of liability insurance, and other documents that might be helpful, handy in OmniFocus, not dependent on apples cloud.
-I presume this is true of most programs, but it is very easy to use keyboard shortcuts. I incorporate tagging function via naming conventions into the way I write my tasks quite frequently, and I can do that with a couple of keystrokes. it makes it easy to call up either or both the type of activity and the physical context I need to execute. or I can call up everything I consider "notes @" With or without a topic added to it like "health:". Thoughts and ideas captured on the go are easy to find and synthesize in OneNote and/or OF for immediate action or future consideration.
- I also like that I can send things from any email into my OmniFocus inbox. And again, it is very easy to Use naming conventions which bypasses the need to put tags on a lot of things.
-I also like being able to send links to the app from webpages, UA-cam, and various other platforms, where to upload photos that give me the needed information and links to complete tasks.
--I don't use it but it also has a location function that helps people who need to remember to do certain errands when they happen to be in the Neighborhood where that errand can be done.
-it is also a nice place to store quick reference information without depending on Apple's cloud because OmniFocus has its own cloud. if I change phones, (I have a love-hate relationship with Apple). I can still have the information on my iPad or get an Apple computer to use on that. The downside is also that it is primarily for Apple, though it does have a very limited web-based app that I don't use.
I love productivity experts like Tiago Forte, Who has a fascinating backstory as to why he developed the concept of building a second brain. He has some nice videos on the various digital notetaking/productivity apps and some clues as to which ones might suit different kinds of thinkers.
One more thing I love about OF, but it is not available anymore.
--They are continuing to support the nonmembership version but I bought back in the day (I hate the idea of paying subscriptions for my software!)
OneNote is still free these days but the new version absolutely sucks when it comes to their tags. Practically useless. I want my 2010 version to last forever.
Thanks!
Don't know if this has been said already, but empty shoe boxes are great as drawer dividers as well.
One mistake people make a lot with mail is leaving it in the envelopes even after they’ve opened it. They maybe don’t know what to do next or don’t want to deal with it right away so they tuck it back in the envelope. But if you take it all out you can usually recycle the envelope, and often at least half of what’s inside, even if you have to keep the bill or letter. Going through in law’s mail from decades past about 60% could’ve gone into the trash the day it arrived! We reduced the volume to sort, shred or keep so much by immediately taking it all out and trashing the envelopes.
This drives me insane. Why keep useless torn open envelopes?
I keep mine because it keeps me organized plus i write the due date & when its paid, I write the confirmation#. I do get rid of the ads & envelopes inside. It's only two monthly bills everything else is paperless & online. My goal for March is to remove this monthly method. I wish I knew about doing the digital clutter yrs ago. I try to do it periodically & have unsubscribed a lot.
This is an annoyance of mine when I help my mom with her mail. I see why she does it (to keep the papers together or sometimes avoidance), but it adds a bit of time when I’m filling and declutter and essentially need to open the mail again (and make sure there’s nothing important left in the envelope). There’s often unnecessary return envelopes and inserts not related to the main statement, which reduces the pile drastically.
I want to invent a solar shredder that mounts on the mail box😅
@@jenniferevans89I haven't had to buy notepaper in 30yrs
i do the wardrobe declutter twice a year and i kept two coats for 5 years despite not fitting into them anymore and many have told me to toss them, but i didnt, i loved those coats and they were really expensive, i gained weight due to a medical issue a lot of it and didnt fit into a lot of my clothes anymore, last winter i wore those coats for the first time in 5 years! it made me really happy and those coats were a constant reminder of my goal of loosing the weight again, im still not fully there yet but i also am still recovering but im happy i fit in them again although not 100% comfortably yet.
I imagine the BIG smile on someone's face when they receive my clothes donation. It helps me declutter items that I never even wore and were "just in case" I need it for a business meeting etc. If I haven't used it in the last six months or year, donation time.
Thanks for sharing these tips. Hardest one for me is shopping and policing my urge to impulse buy......
That’s what keeps me motivated to donate even things I could sell. I heard someone get so excited because they found a newly released WFPB Vegan cookbook and I THINK she said she paid .50 cents for it. I myself had just received my copy from Amazon and knew the price. And that’s what I think every time… in fact, I just dropped off a brand new 2024 planner from a well known company that I never used… hopefully someone will be excited.
@@debbyjo123 Yesss. For something to be in my possession that's just taking up space, it might as well be used to bring someone else joy and happiness.
1. Deal with mail as soon as you walk in the door.
1.5 Sign up for the Do Not Mail list (link in description).
2. Use bins for things that you just toss and/or don't stack, especially if you have children.
3. Tidy for 10 minutes before bed.
4. Declutter periodically, not just once.
5. Use drawer organizers and dividers.
6. Avoid the use of storage units if what you really need is to declutter.
7. Declutter your digital devices too, e.g., files, photos, accounts you follow on social media.
8. Know what kind of person you are and how you bring in clutter.
9. Make a plan before you declutter. Where will you take the items you declutter?
10. Practice mindful and intentional shopping.
I just did that, the behavior evaluation. I noticed that I had extra chores to do because I was bringing paperwork upstairs to do while watching TV with my husband. That spawned A portable table, pens and water bottles on it, and something else to clean up if I wanted a tidy and peaceful space upstairs. Even worse, I was too tired to do the paperwork sometimes!
New rule, don't take any paperwork or projects upstairs. Don't take anything upstairs that I'm going to be annoyed about cleaning up later. I already had a "no food upstairs" rule, but had not noticed what a bother it was to try to "improve my productivity" by dragging stuff upstairs.
"you need to have the home of the person you are right now" :)
PAINT #2! Sherwin-WilliamsJustHelpedMeBigTime - I was purchasing some new paint in a dark color and asked Sherwin-Williams with they could/would add dark color to my leftover paint so I could use it as a first coat/primer. THEY DID IT! So remember that you can use old paint as a primer especially if it is a neutral that works well under what you're planning to put on your wall. I was so pleased that Sherwin-Williams helped me keep things out of the landfill.
OMG nice tip!!!!
I go through my pictures on my phone and edit when I’m standing in line. Good use of time!
That's a great idea!
I may need to start doing this. I have 72,952 photos on my iPhone! Good Lord! 😂😅
Good idea! My phone keeps telling me I'm out of storage lol
@@el-can I'm close to it. Gotta delete some things.
@ The Organized Soprano that was my first reaction to, but then I thought no, as much as that kind of downtime may seem like a waste, but when in public spaces it's good to be aware of your surroundings and be in the moment.. pick pockets Love distracted people. Just a thought.
00:00 🏡 Mail organization is crucial to prevent clutter buildup; deal with incoming mail promptly.
02:47 🗄 Utilize bins and dividers to keep items organized and prevent clutter accumulation.
04:31 ⏰ Implement a regular tidying ritual, even for just 10 minutes a day, to maintain cleanliness.
06:49 🔄 Declutter periodically to adapt to life changes and ensure your space reflects your current needs.
08:16 🛠 Drawer organizers are essential for maintaining order and preventing clutter in drawers.
09:55 🏠 Reconsider the need for storage units; avoid them if possible to prevent hoarding unnecessary items.
11:18 📱 Declutter digital life regularly to minimize virtual clutter and maintain digital organization.
12:58 🤔 Be honest about your organizational habits and preferences to find systems that work for you.
15:07 📝 Make a decluttering plan and know how to responsibly dispose of items to avoid clutter buildup.
16:34 🛍 Practice mindful shopping to prevent unnecessary clutter accumulation and maintain an organized space.
Me: Listening to this video while tidying up before bed! :) Great tips!
on one of my moves i didn’t declutter before moving, life was busy and it was a quick move….so we put things in a storage unit….then after almost a year i went to clear it out, it was basically useless stuff…we were paying to store things we wouldn’t even use again. It was donated or thrown away.
I host clothing swaps at least annually, and whatever doesn't get picked, i list for free on local groups. I don't want it getting resold, but if no one is interested in a week or two, then the stuff gets donated. I find this helps my friends let go and declutter bc often they just don't know what to do with their stuff, or they keep putting it off. Having a clothing swap on their calendar, with snacks and chitchat and free new-to-them shopping helps them go through their stuff though, and it's a win all around.
Love this
Thank you for being so upbeat and energetic! Sometimes these minimalist influencers are so monotone and boring!
I have been decluttering for YEARS now. And I'm still getting rid of things. This will be the year though where I get into some areas I have been avoiding and finally be free of some things that just do not belong in my house. Ex. I have 3 bins, 2 that contain items from high school and mementos and another that was full of old mail, an old purse full of ALL THE THINGS, and so much more. I just went through the latter this weekend and I can't believe all the strange things I found (including a handful of Hershey Almond Kisses that must be 8 years old)! I got rid of most of it, trashing and shredding most of the paper and added some items to a box that will be donated. If anyone were to come into my house they would think it almost looks unlived in, or maybe one of those showcase houses, but I have my dark deep cluttered spaces just like everyone else. LOL
lol, candy is off of my useful food list, and has been for some time but… For a moment I thought "what a great idea to have Hershey's kisses where I process my mail to make it more fun and interesting!" 😅
I donated all my clothes i didn't wear any more and didn't fit. I also donated unused glasswares, knic knacks, and such. I donated all my craft supplies. I shredded and trashed all old bill statements, receipts,letters, etc. Im moving, so less to move, and more space in new place. I do not like clutter.
Electronic clutter. I tend to keep everything because it isn’t taking up physical space the way other clutter does. Thanks for the tip.
Same, but now my emails are in the 30k range 😬
The last few Januarys, I have done one drawer a week re-org. This second year, it was SO much faster!
💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾
The best comment for me today was clearing electronic clutter.
My husband is so well-organised and I am so messy. For him it’s so natural and I’ve been feeling awful about being so messy for a long time. the more I watch these sorts of videos the better I feel because I don’t feel so alone any more like I am the one messy exception. I feel so seen. Thank you
Let me guess....you're likely more creative, am I right? ;)
@@Megan6772 I am actually, half of my room is art and art supplies 😄😊
Today, my partner and I had a 🎶 Fashion Show At Lunch! 🎶
It's so much fun! And in the end, we have a lovely pile of clothing to donate, consign or toss. If only I could get him to approach his mail that way.. but we've settled for an organization system that works for him. 💕
I used to poo poo on the idea of bins, but I started actually implementing them into my kitchen space. I used them already in my drawers to sort undies and such, but never thought they'd be worth it in my kitchen, which has 10" wide drawers. I was so wrong... Things just store differently in a bin idk.
Great video, Kay!
Home organizer here! Thanks for the reminders to flex my organizing muscles when I’m home. 😊
"leave every room better than you found it." Is one of my favorite rules, along with "tidy up now as if guests are coming" because invariably I find myself immersed in fascinating work and going back to tidy something up doesn't necessarily happen. This helps me avoid the pre-guest rush when people come over each week.
“Leave every room…” great advice! Jotted it down, thanks
I declutter every day: mail, boxes, unused items. I stopped getting thrills from shopping: less stuff I have to declutter. It feels so good to have clear spaces. I was blessed with parents that didn’t accumulate stuff. It’s made it easier to keep an organized and tidy home. I enjoy your videos and I still learn and apply what I learn.
I have watched a lot of people who are organizers on UA-cam, honestly I feel like you are a breath of fresh air! You are the most realistic person I have watched ! I do struggle with clutter as we all do , granted there are things that are not mine in the space so I cannot control those items but what I can control does help me feel organized in a sense. I use drawer dividers in my dresser, I need better ones but they are doing their job ok, it does help keeping the underwear drawer a lot less chaotic
I love bins, because if it doesn't fit nearly in the *designated* bin - then either the bin needs purging, or it *might* be time for a new category-bin. DEFINTELY love putting my knives into sleeves & into my drawers - steak knives go w/ the basic cutlery, work-knives go in the drawer w/ the other cooking tools.
You have such a lovely calm demeanor 😊
I stop a lot of paper mail from reaching my mailbox by signing up for paperless bills wherever possible!
YASSS!!! 🙌🏾
me too, a paper statement is rarely important - and now w tax season, i know they're all copies that can go straight into the shredder
This helped me alot. Statements and bills most definitely
The hardest one for me to implement currently is to do mails right away, including the digital one, email.
It’s SO HARD! I avoided opening mail right away for SO LONG 😭
I just want to tell you I subscribed to your channel the moment that I began watching this video because of your happy and vibrant personality. Just instantly improved my mood. ☺️
Thank you so much!! That’s so kind 🥹
Another GREAT video… we can always learn something about decluttering because this is something we will always need to do. Sadly, it’s not a once and done. Thank you for this concise information and inspiration!!
BTW, your hair looks great… of course, it always does.
Thank you, friend!
Bin by the door -- LIFESAVER (or at least clutter-buster)!!! The end of the day cleanup -- se ask children to do this on the daily. Why would we think that we don't have to do it as adults? Making some SOLID points today. I'm here for it!
I think it's really important to understand your own psychology and how you actually live in a space. I'm amazed that people check the mail daily! I check once a month hahaha. That makes it way easier to deal with so it's not a regular thing that I have to worry about. Nothing in there is urgent. I also don't make my bed unless I'm changing the linens. It's my least favorite task and also the least important one to get done every day.
Absolutely! You totally gotta do YOU 💃🏽
Definitely find your rhythm, but… There are things in the mail that, if you miss it, you'll be sorry. Jury summons. Important expiration dates that you've forgotten, News of the death of a loved one that isn't very close to you but still you feel like a heel when it takes you a month to respond…
That's what informed delivery is for! Nobody is mailing me news of a loved one though. My family and friends communicate via phone before mail 100% of the time. @@bitrudder3792
I forgot to add that leaving your bed unmade can be very healthy. I know that sounds like heresy, but expos in your linens to fresh air and daylight is a good thing unless the air in your house is full of dog hair and chemicals!
Only required mail goes into the house. Everything else is recycled immediately before I set foot inside.
I adapted this awhile ago. I would leave it in the car (I have a post office box) and sort and discard sooner rather than later
I am getting better at getting rid of things and not holding on. If I buy something I ask myself do I really need it and where is it going or does it have to be stored.
I love these tips, and I incorporate them into my lifestyle. ❤❤❤. Your content has truly inspired me to live the best life when it comes to tidiness and being clutter free. Decluttering is my most favorite thing to do on a regular basis.
Thank you so much for your sweet comment! 🥰
Hi 🌻new subscriber here! thank you for all those good suggestions! my main challenge is "paper anything" ... there is the cookie monster and for me it is the paper monster! lol you have such a friendly and open energy about you, it is a pleasure spending time with you! my gammy would have loved your channel! she was an amzing organizer, planner and cleaner. Her motto, when someone said they just dont feel like doing a certain thing was (and i still hear her voice each time i feel like that): "well, then I have fantastic news for you, because feeling like doing it, is not required or needed...just do it. end of story." ... lol
I remember an afternoon decluttering knives with my MIL keeping me company: after sharpening them And testing them on different food stuffs, It was easy for us to see which ones were worthy of keeping and I whittled them down to just what would fit in the knife block that I had picked out at the Container Store: a wooden block that sits inside of a drawer.
The proof of a good organizing choice is that it still works after many, many years. I'm super happy with this choice! I've probably had it for about 7-10 years now. 😁
That was the most helpful declutter video I ever saw.
I think the most important part was your advice to be honest with myself. 😄
Thank you. 🙏🏼
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for those links to stop the offers and junk mail. My husband and I both filled them out. Since I’m the one who goes through and shreds the mail, I really appreciate getting less mail!😊
"Extras" sounds like "exceptions" for me. Just can't figure out what I would do with T-shirts if they're not part of my core items, which is often listed. I love that you don't do that. There's the day to day stuff that people see (tops/bottoms/dresses/shoes) and then dress clothes and workout clothes are the "extras" which make sooo much more sense to me! Thank you!
I wonder: do you have a separate X-item wardrobe for dress clothes and/or without clothes? I find i have many dress up clothes that I only ever wear to church, so there's no reason for me to have that many. On the other hand, at home I like wearing the same one or two comfy bottoms and just change the tops.
I deal with mail daily, but I hate when I go away and have to deal with piled up mail.
I have decluttered alot since retiring, but it seems stuff is still too much. I have also used drawer organizers in both the bedroom and kitchen and can now find stuff more easily and am using stuff I forgot I have. 😊
Stopped this video five minutes in to put away my purse, decide on a shirt donation (resulting also in a shirt return!), and separating out some mail that needs to be dealt with! Thank you for the motivation 😃
Edit: Btw, dealing with mail right away has been the tough one for me, but mainly because I still don't fully know what to do with certain pieces when it comes to filing. Hadn't fully thought that through in a while and am grateful for the reminder -- it's a great example of the importance of planning that you talked about as well! ❤️
So glad I found your channel. You are excellent. Great tips and well presented
Thanks so much!
Cheap drawer divider: cut up Amazon/cardboard boxes. Cover the exposed edge with painter's tape or wash tape for a smooth edge. Works surprisingly well and takes little time.
PAINT! The recycling center advised me to fill used paint cans with kitty litter to absorb the paint, seal the can and dispose of it whole, Or I could pay them to do something similar at a much higher price.
Thanks for the tips! I thought I was doing pretty good then I realized I am picture hoarder!
Great tips thank you! I love to make my bed but my husband and I are on opposite schedules so sometimes this does not get done until its almost bedtime again, but it is a must for me!
Wow haven’t seen your content in ages. So glad it came up in my recommendations.
Getting phone #'s & info where to dispose/discard ahead of time is a WONDERFUL idea 🎉
Planning for success so we're not sitting there like what do I do with this stuff 🤔
😂 this is so funny. I just did this over the weekend. I was looking for different other places than my usual donation places
This is very helpful, even if I only tend to the paper junk.
Great video with lots of useful info! ❤️
All of your list are hard to me but mail piling up and the shredding of my personal info becomes daunting. I also still haven’t mastered the bins because I throw things in them which then looks messy.
So helpful! I’m in the midst of planning a closet redo so this was perfect.
Glad it was helpful! Good luck with your closet redo! Have fun! I'll be doing the same very soon!
Mail is my downfall. I have started doing the nightly 10 minute tidy!
I have to mostly get rid of paperwork but organize impoi5twnt stuff organizer but there's so much and it's overwhelming
I lived abroad for a combined total of 8 years, in 3 different countries, all islands which meant I inevitably had to fit all my things into a suitcase plus shipping 1 or 2 boxes. This really helps tame the clutter. You'd be surprised how much you can live without.
I found the mail piled up really quickly until I found a place by the door for a paper recycling bin and another for non-recyclable rubbish. Now, 90% of the mail can be dropped into either of those and the rest feels so much more manageable.
The hardest thing for me now is probably getting stuff out of the house - there is a beautiful lake near our local recycling centre, so I try to do a 'decluttering trip' when I have enough time for a walk round the lake after. Having that to look forward to is an incentive to get the job done.
That’s so beautiful that you’re able to turn this chore into a wonderful walk around the lake! It sounds so lovely!
For incoming mail/info/packages:
The way I like to be ready for mail is to have the following handy:
-Ink roller to obscure sensitive information on packaging that goes in the trash
-Shredder or a designated folder or lap file section for things that need to be shredded
- recycle bin or designated file/lap file section pages to recycle
-File or lap file section for paper that I want to re-purpose (I do a fair amount of scribbling as I think about different kinds of projects… I Scrabble and then I can shred or recycle)
-file or lap file with sections if I can't deal with something in the moment: invitations, bills, Things to file, estimates, coupons I might use, things I need to read but don't want to read right now, Whatever you need for your own life dictates the categories and how complicated you want them to be.
- Charged up phone With digital app so I can quickly make that call or respond to a voice message, text or email quickly, pay Bills or make a quick purchase, jot down a reminder of expected arrival dates, add warranty expiration reminders, air print some receipts, enter tasks, projects, event details and a quick photo of an invitation, maybe even add the address so it links through to the map when I need it, And to deal with incoming texts that require action at the same session
- computer - To quickly research anything I am interested in if I have time, to take notes using my full-size keyboard, to pay bills if I prefer to do it from there, and print things that don't easily print from the phone
- paper planner & pages - Jot things down here (Often with pencil or Post-it notes) because I'm very visual and I like to see a month at a glance etc. make a note of bills paid on a chart so I can see what has or has not been done at a glance.
- This is also A good time/place to go ahead and process what has accumulated in my wallet in the way of transactions, receipts, notes, business cards, or put them in a lap folder for later.
-stationary and postcards and stamps and nice pens for writing answers or just encouraging notes to people on the fly, so it's ready to go right into the mailbox
All of this stuff accumulates so fast, It really helps do you have a system that makes the process really smooth whether or not you can deal with it as soon as it comes in, or if you have to go back to it later in the week or month.
If I do nothing else, paying bills the day they come in is most important to me, followed by anything else that will weigh on my mind until it is done.
I know that I am one of those "out of sight, out of mind" people: Dealing with important items as soon as they arrive and having Visible tabs to show me what sections I've got is super helpful for me.
My command center is in an old baby wardrobe just inside the door where the mail enters the house. I replaced the hanging rod with adjustable shelf brackets and a single shelf. In the bottom I added a grommet to run an electrical cord through so I could put a small shredder there. I have a bin with monthly financial folders for paid items above the shelf. The bottom two drawers hold paper recycling bins. The top two drawers hold checks, office supplies and greeting cards. There is a shallow wooden bin on top for the latest copy of a couple of favorite catalogs I still receive and a page a day type calendar. When mail comes in I open it and shred any junk mail with personal information. Bills and their return envelopes or invites with RSVP or event reminders get paper clipped to the date I plan to pay or respond. Bill inserts or ads without personal information and outer window envelopes go into the recycling bins. It takes less than 5 minutes to handle the mail because I only have to sort it when it comes in. In the morning when I tear off yesterday’s date from the calendar I handle the items attached to today’s date, which is often nothing but if there is something it takes just a minute or two to handle.
i'm going to hold onto this idea when i redo my entryway!
Awesome ideas!🎉
Thanks for taking the time to make this video the hardest thing for me is knowing all of the different locations for taking the stuff so I’m glad you brought that up in the past I’ve had things in my van to get rid of but didn’t really know where to take the stuff 🤷🏽♀️so that is a nice reminder to create a list 👍🏾
That tip about mail was actually super helpful and I've never heard it before!
Thank you! This has been more helpful than a lot of other organizing videos I have seen. I had a light bulb moment during the video that I could just get a bin to put my family shoes in. They are piled on the floor by the door and I keep meaning to get one of those benches with shoe cubbies but honestly, my family is more likely to throw them into a bin than have to slide it in a cubby. New subscriber!
Just found your channel. This is my third vid. LOVE IT!!! You seem so real and organized, and your voice is good on the ears too (although being a professional soprano, I would think it should be!!!) Thank you for your channel!!!
Welcome!! Thank you so much for your sweet comment!
Wonderful video! Thanks!!
Had to listen again while I drive. On my way how to get started 😊
Wonderful tips! But also… Zelda shirt! Do you recall where that one is from?
The Nintendo Store in NYC but I think you can buy it from Nintendo’s website too!
💯 on number 4/ 7/9/10. I recently did number 7 because it frees up storage. Number 10 is a must if you in small and tight spaces because you have to be aware of dimensions.
Just stumbled upon your channel with this first video. First of all LOVE the content. Second of all LOVE the Zelda shirt. Third of all, you're a Boston based girlier?! You've found yourself a new loyal follower. Can't wait to watch more of your videos!
Welcome aboard! Hope you enjoy the content!
I tend to keep some stuff around where I hang out the most. It depends on what it is and if I think I'll use it soon whether or not I put it away. I do have a home for everything and I don't bring in more than my small home can fit and I feel I need.
1. I have a P.o. box and leave junk mail at the post office and bring a marker to cover my identity.
2. Get rid of boxes or not even bring them inside because they house bugs and vermin eggs or roaches.
3. I make a list of tasks on my cel phone and put check marks next to it.
4. I buy precooked meats so I don't have to deal with samonella, save on cooking time and not deal with food poisoning from undercooked meats and save on utilities.
5. I take out the trash while walking my dog.
But then I broke my leg and it went downhill while recovering.
Love it! I still struggle with the mail. Sometimes...
Excellent tips! Thanks for the motivation! Hugs. 😊
Love the Zelda T-shirt 🎉
Bills can all be switched online. If you have a physical mailbox attached to your house, post a sign stating no junk mail and/or put junk mail directly into recycle.
Cereal boxes. The cardboard is good for making dividing up in your other drawers. I have a drawer for my socks and other under garments. I used the front and back of a cereal box cut to length of the drawer, and then folded them in half with the cereal stuff on the inside of the fold so it is plain cardboard on the side touching the clothes. Then the drawer has a smaller edge usually at the back of the drawer, so measure it and cut the cardboard folds that deep or slightly shorter to fit in the drawer and then use to separate your stuff as you want.
You can also use them sideways in the drawer too, not just front to back like I do. But you might need two boxes and then to have two sides per row, and maybe attach them together if you’re looking at them being more permanent. Staples or glue, something like that, though if using staples, put the open side of the staple towards the clothes that won’t snag on them.
Thank goodness my complex has a big garage bin right at the mail boxes so, what I do is go through quickly the junk mail from bills so that junk mail never even enters my home. Then I can handle my bills and not have junk mail clutter.
I’m totally someone with sparse cabinets. I don’t even have a storage closet. But yet everything gets put back/away, everything has a place! But if you came into my space you would probably assume I have a lot of stuff. Big aquarium, indoor garden along a large wall with 75 house plants. All very aesthetically pleasing. But open closets and drawers and I have very little. My sister is the opposite and she “appears” more minimalist but I feel I am too just we are in opposite ways!
Your space sounds beautiful!
Open every envelope. I’ve opened some that look like junk that contained a check. Maybe intentional???
Oh my! I've found so many checks while I was working with others! It's crazy! Get that money! 💰
Mail and electronic clutter/since my husband/I retired (age 68/70), do not like fooling with this. I laughed about the storage unit! My husband has rented one for decades - last time I visited was about 15-20 years ago and vowed to never go back! 😉
But y’all are still paying for it? Why not just donate/trash it? I promise your family will appreciate it in the long run if you don’t leave them with junk and clutter to sort and clean up for you. Especially if you don’t even care for it.
Kay!!! Nice to see you!!!
I don’t even bring the mail into my house… open it next to the garbage can outside and only bring in the actual bill, coupon, card etc. if needed. Then those things that you actually need are the only things that come in and go into a tray or get paid immediately. If you only need it for reference to look at account numbers or invitations or whatever, take a pic on your phone and shred it immediately. Signing up for everything to be paperless that can be is also helpful.
This was really helpful and informational, I can work on so many areas. I think it would be good for to actually show the clutter in certain areas and how and what you would use to resolve the issue or make it better.
I guess more physical visuals of how you can correct and organize things.
Thank you Very Helpful!🥰❤️🙏🏿
Thank you for the feedback!
Great video! Thanks for saying shopping is fun.😍
I recycle papers and bottles, but I will never have the bandwidth to save up broken cords until I have enough to make it worth my while to put them anywhere but the trash.
This may help someone else. I open my mail the same or next day with my phone calendar open. I add due dates and also follow up calls. I know my blocks of times/days that I will have a moment to print something or find a receipt. I also schedule deadlines for gift buying and it’s been a game changer.
Thank you for your helpful video
Do you have a list of types of places that would be part of a declutterring plan? I’m getting close to attacking my storage space…
Loved the video! It'd be great to have some visuals/examples though
Noted! 📝
I have a hard time scheduling in the hour to go through things/declutter each week
Sound advice 😊.
❤😂 love the thought of knowing yourself
LOL! I know I'mma DEFINITELY forget where my glasses are if I don't put them down in ✨the spot✨ 🤣
Mail-I do not bring it out of my car the envelopes all go in the garbage and the important papers come and the rest stays in the car trash,until I’m ready to go to the convenience and empty my trash best thing I ever came up with!
oo i like that
is there a way to stop mail soliciting donations? i literally would donate to stop them. i dont like donating because it results in more mail. can it not be done electronically?
That is an excellent question. I don’t have an answer right now but I will look into it for you and update in a future video! I receive these kinds of things too but they are not random. Thanks for your comment!
i’ve been using the pre paid envelopes from junk mail and sending them back other junk mail.
Beautiful 👍 thanks ❤
What app was it that you use to declutter digital stuff?? Loving all this advice! Thank you 🙏🏽🩵
The one I use for photos used to be called Gemini but now it's called Clean My Phone! It's really helpful!
@@TheOrganizedSoprano awesome! Thank you!
I am really glad that, in my part of the world, I do not get ANY paper mail. Everything comes to my phone, including bills and receipts.
Do you recommend an app or resource that would clear years of email clutter? I would love to refresh my email and then keep up with it regularly. There are many options online but I’m afraid some are scams.
I've started opening my mail next to the recycling bin... only few letters go in the drawer 😅