An unexpected consequence of decluttering is that I’m getting more confidence in my decision making abilities. I know a lot better of what I like and don’t like!
Decluttering made me reevaluate that my main entertainment is shopping at thrift and garage sales. The problem is going out looking for something to buy rather than looking for something I need. Now I actually keep a thrift shopping list of things I need and only go shopping for those. I go many times and come back having bought nothing. This never used to happen.
My home was such a mess for months - filled with boxes, unused stuff, garbage... I couldnt invite anyone to come home. One day a friend was about to come from another country and I actually didnt have a choice and spent a painful (mainly mentally) week cleaning, moving, throwing away stuff. It wasnt perfect after that but it was sooo much better. Once I removed the big problems I was able to literally breathe better - the space around me was so much more empty, beautiful, easier and faster to clean. Now I have some things I need to finish (like going through my clothes and realizing that I do not fit in half of them) but I am so much happier. It is true that with just small everyday steps you can keep the space clean and remove obstacles. Just dont let it become as bad as it can get... learned that the hard way.
I don't have a problem with decluttering some things. It's the saying goodbye to craft things knowing that if you let it go, you won't get to do it again. (Disability pension so rebuying is not available). And also knowing that you have more stuff than you will be able to do in your life, but letting go of them is acknowledging your mortality, and that there will be a time when someone else will have to clear up the left overs of your life.
@@es4666 A lot of time its about not being able to access it. When I was umming and ahhing about throwing out my crochet supplies thinking I would never crochet again, I pulled them all out. Once out, I looked at what I had, and started crocheting again. That was 3 years ago. I've made multiple blankets, shawls, scarves, amigurumi - and have more crochet supplies that I am using than when I started. The same goes with papercraft, embroidery and sewing and colouring, doodling, bullet journalling. I do what I can get my hands on. (tl;dr I have thought about it. Its about being able to get to things)
I decluttered in 2019 and was able free up an entire room! It was definitely the gateway to learn how to handle my paperwork, which led me to start tackling my debt and curbing my spending. It also really helped with my anxiety!
It's brilliant how decluttering just becomes the tip of the iceberg. Since beginning my decluttering journey 2 years ago, the realm of personal finance got minimised too. We are more aware of what we bring into the house now, saving money and have gotten out of debt. This has definitely helped with anxiety too as less stuff to do with and no longer living paycheck to paycheck.
I've been decluttering for over 10 years. Before I even knew it had a name lol. My husband still hasn't got on board. It's a constant source of friction. Lucky he's a pretty good cook lol.
I’ll be honest, I’ve been a subscriber of this channel for a long, long time and every time I see a new video I’m still shocked you don’t have 500k subscribers. You have the best content and you actually care how your videos are edited. Get it together people lol join!!
Totally agree. Those folks are missing out. We are lucky. Love getting my htgyst fix. Laura you deserve an award. I love decluttering the Lucky Irish Laura way.
For me the best part of being a minimalist and decluttering is needing less and less to feel happy and fulfilled...I go shopping now and walk out with either nothing in my hands because I need nothing, or one or two well thought out intentionally acquired items that will actually add to my intentionally lived life rather than just add to my collection of random belongings.
I've been actively decluttering since the new year, and your videos have been some of my greatest inspiration! A big one I'm tackling this week is my email inbox, which I've largely ignored for the last 4 years. 2500 emails gone, only 150 to go! And too many unsubscribes to count... Stop the flow!
No one told me how chaotic the process would be, stuff everywhere to recycle, throw away, donate, sell, for months. I accepted it, and it was so worth it in the end!
When I feel stuck, I remember that even removing two or three things in a category will shift energy and usually when I make another pass at it, more items come forward that are ready to go away!
Reasons I have trouble decluttering... My life. What would decluttering fix..... My life. Yep that one checks out. Hitting the nail on the head again Laura.
Decluttering has helped me stop shopping. The pandemic helped with that too, but I like not bringing more stuff in the house that I need to put away! 😂
It so good to know someone who understands me even if it's just a little. I hoarded food at the start of the pandemic out of share paranoia because I felt this pandemic was going to last 4 years. No kidding around. So, my emergency few thousands wasn't going to hold me for 4 years, my work hours were drastically reduced (even now May 2021) , under constant reminder from management the threat is pending of losing my job entirely due to the pandemic, and my community at one point was a hot spot for Covid. Well, seems counter intuitive but all the visual tower of boxes of food sprawled over the fridge top and the floor made my fear level spike instead of feeling secure; so I started to STOP buying more food, use what I had. To this date, I even share my excess food with three single moms.
I used to have massive anxiety around not being able to find things and losing things now with a designated spot for most things it really helps Getting my partner on board is really rough though...
I'm so encouraged in my decluttering! At first, I thought it would not be possible I was soooo overwhelmed until I took the first step! Taking that first step was very hard (so everyone don't dispair)and over the months your videos have helped me so much! I can't believe the positive difference it makes in my life! Thank you!🤗
"Tidy people are not tidy." Thank you! I'm tired of my tidiness being compared to others. I dislike uninvited company, because I don't get to clean and actually tidy up. The benefit I experienced is time. If my home gets away from me, it doesn't take long to actually clean up and get it in order. I have time to do something I want. I can put more time to crafting and watching TV without the guilt looming overhead. It's been amazing. A slow process for sure (many, many small wins), but so worth it.
You’re super inspiring. Any time I’m in the shower now, on the way out if I have a bottle of something I’m not using or that’s old, it comes out with me. I’ve gotten several boxes of donation stuff taped up, ready to go, that’s been taking up space in a room I want to clean. Baby steps.
You're right about the follow through. Removal is 1st step. The very next and necessary 2nd step is setting up a new system that makes it easier to put the item away than it is to leave out (not my wisdom). The good news I found is that even if you have to re-sort/ re-tidy etc it only takes minutes. G Ire
I really enjoy listening to you while I clean or declutter. It's like you are coaching or cheerleading for me even if I am not doing exactly what you are discussing. Thank you!
"Just because you find something that works perfectly in the moment, does not mean it's going to work forever " WAHHH! 😢 I am crying because this is true. I can ALMOST accept that this is an endless journey.
Awesome video! For me the "system" approach is a life changer. Even before I started decluttering, there were a few spots I organized by following the rule, which I didn't know back then - find a "home" for everything. And I have to admit, that months later, those are the only spots, which are clean no matter what. When I take something out of that spot, I know exactly where to put it back, so it never gets messy! I'm trying to implement that rule in all my rooms since then. Still in progres 😉 Keep fingers crossed for me! Love your videos, looking forward to a new one!
About the husband: it took mine about seven years to start decluttering from the time I started so hang in there 😝 And now he’s even starting to become an organised and TIDY person! I’m over the moon! And my soon seven year old daughter has been asking me to help her declutter her things too. We’ve done toys, stuffed animals and craft supplies. This weekend we’re tackling jigsaw puzzles, magazines and board games. Knowing that things can go on to bring joy to other children has been a HUGE motivator for her - she’s not a fan of throwing things away but donating makes her feel good. I love having my family with me on this, finally! ❤️
My daughter's been very good about it. She regularly chooses things to donate, which is great. And I'm now holding out hope my husband might join the bandwagon too. 😂
@@HowToGYST Yeah, Scout seems to be doing amazing! I see learning to declutter as a gift we give our children. Having enough but not more. It’s an art and it has to be learnt ❤️ I’ll keep my fingers crossed for your husband (or keep my thumbs held, as we say in Swedish 😁)!
I always love your approach to tweaking methods to work for youor switching methods. I think that's a reason that I really love decluttering videos in general because I like to have choices and variety because even if something's working changing it up in a different area or space might be necessary. I love hearing your wisdom and pitfalls. Always encouraging friend.
@@robingoudy6401 Reading comprehension not your strong suit? I did not say he doesn't clean up after himself, nor is he "a spoiled child", or "a burden". He's not into decluttering, just like a lot of people, including Laura's husband. How dare you?
@@JamieM470 grow up. Sounds like I struck a nerve, maybe look inside yourself and acknowledge what's really bugging you about my comment. Truth hurts sometimes doesn't it.
I honestly feel that since decluttering and continuing to declutter that I have gotten better at speaking up for myself! I do agree with you ihat sometimes the "Bandwagon" is S L O W to catch on. Great content!
Wow, I’ve watched so many different decluttering videos and this is the first time that I realized that I have clutter in other places besides my house, like my office, my car, my email, my reminders. I think I just figured out why I never have time for anything, my whole life is cluttered. 😕 I’ve really got to start decluttering. Thanks for posting this video. You’ve got a new subscriber.
Invest the time now to save time (and space) later and setting up systems are key concepts that need to be front and center of every organizing/decluttering course...otherwise all those great tricks and tactics get lost in the piles that eventually build up again....wish my friend had emphasized that years ago when I took her organization courses. These concepts are finally sinking in and being applied (more regularly)...
I still need to get back there but I will say that a benefit of decluttering was definitely less fights with my spouse. I can zone messes out but he's somebody who can't so he's the neat and tidy one in our relationship for sure. Having a lot of the excess clutter definitely creates more tension and one of her rooms are cleaner or more serene that lessons anxiety overall for all of us. And then since we're both less stressed we will snap less. I was actually surprised how much it made an impact before. Thanks for the reminder that's definitely a good reason to get it back to clean and serene. We both currently are in high stress modes.... not with each other but in general. Work and kids and life.
I call it finding the flow: finding how things are used, where and how you can set it up so it's easy to use, easy to put back so your life flows. When you find what works it seems transparent, but it takes so many tries and experiments to get there.
This video makes so much sense to me. It's very inspiring and motivating. I just give up thinking I can't declutter because I was trying to have the perfect uncluttered home. Thanks for sharing these secrets. I am going to start again tomorrow because it doesn't have to be a huge mission to declutter. It can be done in bite-sized chunks and ultimately reach the same goal without any of the feelings of guilt or failure. Thank you so very much
oooo This hit home "Take what works, TWEAK THE REST!" I definitely find myself hung up and trying to do things "just so" - those words HIT! They were like someone raining down freedom upon my shoulders - Thank you SO MUCH!!! I've kind of heard this type of thing before, but just the way you said it and the simplicity just really finally sunk in!!
Such great points! So important, don't miss the follow through. Also, the last step is the most fun and most gratifying, get it OUT of your house! I put stuff directly in my car and then take it to the donation center. (It helps that I live about 2 minutes away).
one of the best things I did was decluttering plates, bowls, utensils, glasses and mugs. I kept two plates per person (with a few more as back up for guests, I'm not a big entertainer), one bowl each, a couple of mugs and glasses, and a few of each utensil. before I did this, I used to long for a dishwasher. after - I wouldn't have one if you gave it to me for free. I don't need one. there is built in motivation to do the dishes, because you need them for the next meal. you can't afford to have them sitting in the sink for days because there's nothing else to use. doing the dishes became much less of a big deal. I housesat for my brother recently and couldn't believe how much silverware they had for just two people - it was overflowing the tray. same with coffee cups, they barely fit in the cupboard. you know you're not using the ones at the back anyway, or the silverware at the bottom of the tray.
My main decluttering problem is that because of the pandemic all places that normally accept donations are closed and everything I tried to declutter is just sitting in boxes. I really hope they open up again soon. Some of those boxes have been waiting to be donated for 6 months!
another way others can help you - my daughter, who I raised to get rid of things, is a big help with things like books. she'll go to the shelf and point out a book and say, come on, this? you can get rid of this. and then I either defend keeping it or agree with her and get rid of it. she doesn't have any attachment to my things so she'll suggest things I might not have even considered.
Laura I love your videos. Thanks so much. I have listened to just about all the Minimal Mum's and now starting on yours. So thanks again and Happy Weekend 😊☘️☘️☘️
Last week, I organized the packs of tuna fish that had accumulated in a pantry drawer. My grandson, the tuna fiend, says, “I had no idea we had that much tuna fish!” maybe he will stop buying it now and use what he has...a small declutter victory!
I'm not a minimalist don't really want to sounds to stressful. I just don't want too much stuff in my house. I get rid of things I have no use for or I could care less about. Obviously I don't get rid of things I don't love because I need them like cleaning rags no I don't love cleaning rags they don't "spark Joy" but I need them to wipe up spills or clean house.
You pretty much just said I don't want to be a minimalist then described yourself sounding like a minimalist lol...keep what you need/want and chuck the rest.... definitely me...as a minimalist..and way less stressed than when I held on to everything
My problem is my health is not good. One job exhausts me. After an illness in bed for weeks or months the clutter has increased and chores built up. Tryed that pulling everything out of my closet and put in a pile. The pile is still in the corner of my bedroom with the clothes I wear on top and I can't even get into the closet because the pile is there. The garage has been cleaned out twice and quickly fills up with business storage and other things. I did manage to clean out a space in the back below the cabinets and buy a small freezer which I have wanted to do for years. I have no storage or file cabinets or even a desk for my stuff. Finding important papers is always a nightmare. I did get rid if a lot of stuff to the Goodwill selling it or bringing it to the dump. But I have a lot of stuff from my parents house and my old larger home so after months of working in it there was a long pause. Now I am looking at the lower floor needing to be cleaned out and a water problem created some mold in a ceiling and a closet that I just discovered. No money to pay for help with that.
Yes, I know that myself too well. I have mobility issues, my right hip is in a dreadful condition, it hurts constantly. Making the decision to toss or keep is tough. It's not about tossing, it's about keeping the stuff you love and want to spend the rest of your life with. I feel compassionate towards your challenges.
Chronic pain and physical (and mental) health issues can absolutely make it feel impossible but in the end getting rid of excess and setting yourself up for success by making things easier on yourself in the long run....it had a profound effect on my life and health going from someone who had far too much to mentally and physically deal with to someone who only has a few dishes to wash,an empty floor to dust mop, a few special items to dust etc...and if I don't do it for a while it doesn't pile up too high because there's not enough stuff to do so....I hope you have a support circle to help get things under control and more manageable and I wish I could come help,I'm not super spry myself but I would try to do what I could ..💗
I naturally like to collect and gather things. Thru the years of learning about organization, I always learn more. I am so glad you shared the fact that even after decluttering, things can get a bit messy at times. Life changes so the things ya need, don't need changes. Systems that worked prior might need to be tweaked. Sometimes the system just needs to be tossed and a new one could work better now. I used to think decluttering was a one and done experience. Now, I recognize and would say that decluttering is an ongoing choice for me. It gets easier and faster as the years go by because I am more confident with letting things go. It clears the way for new opportunities, new hobbies, and a new lifestyle as I grow in time. Makes me appreciate life and simple joys more daily. Love your insights on home organization!
I just found your channel and I'm excited to watch your other videos. I've been working on decluttering over the last 3 years. It's definitely a process but I feel I can breathe in my house again. Looking forward to trying your challenge!
The best decluttering strategy that has been working for me lately is as soon as I think I need to buy more storage furniture for something If I haven't used it in a while or do not want to display the item I immediately post it on the local buy nothing group in my area to see if someone else can use the item. I save money by not purchasing another piece of furniture that Won't fit in my already small home and I no longer need to store the item once it is picked up off my curb by someone who could use the items.
Decluttering is the only way to survive for me. We live in a 2-bedroom flat, 90 sqm (about 970 sqf) for four people. Our kitchen is tiny and many things don't have a designated home, because frankly, I just don't have space for them. We don't have an office, just a desk in the corner of our living room. So the only way to survive is to have as little as possible.
Y’a I’m getting better ,it’s not in my nature but I want too . So i do one thing at a time . Its cause of my health problem . Before I could do my cleaning my whole house in two or three hours . But now it’s different.. why I want to be a minimalism is because to have more time to go and see my family . And friend etc
Yes, it is hard to deal with having no help while with another person. I take anxiety meds, thankfully, but still feel distressed often. I have discarded some of my late mother's stuff (and my own) but painfully slow working on my own.
I am surprised that I had so many items I never used-2 hairdryers, a bathroom scale, too many plastic food containers, clothes that I didn’t like or worn or stained, garden gloves, container bins and baskets, unplaced games, cords,
I am also surprised that I didn’t know I had too much stuff and that Liffey could be easier with less. Even when people told me I had too much, I didn’t understand the connection between amount and the time managing the stuff took. Over time I am shopping less, being aware to put purchases away, to have a place to put items needing mending etc. I am 71,a retired professor, and I am optimistic. I want more time for hobbies.
Habitat for humanity. They will take old furniture away for you, but you have to have it outside in the yard or on your driveway. They will not go inside your house and remove anything except for an extra price. The furniture can't be old and broken and it has to be in relatively good condition. You contact them and send them a photo of your items one at a time. Is the donation for an excellent cause. I'd like to donate where the cause is good. Such as a place for animals to be rehabilitated. For a hospital auxiliary so that we can have more beds and better equipment.
I thought it was nice that you had your little girl rolling down the hill. We all need to be like little children so we can enjoyed life without all the clutter. She doesn't have clutter in her brain. Remember when we were young we were just like that
An unexpected consequence of decluttering is that I’m getting more confidence in my decision making abilities. I know a lot better of what I like and don’t like!
That's great!
💥🎯💥🎯
Decluttering made me reevaluate that my main entertainment is shopping at thrift and garage sales. The problem is going out looking for something to buy rather than looking for something I need. Now I actually keep a thrift shopping list of things I need and only go shopping for those. I go many times and come back having bought nothing. This never used to happen.
OMG! I'm at this stage, too. The added new rush is researching better(color/size/quality/quantity), thus less items.
My home was such a mess for months - filled with boxes, unused stuff, garbage... I couldnt invite anyone to come home. One day a friend was about to come from another country and I actually didnt have a choice and spent a painful (mainly mentally) week cleaning, moving, throwing away stuff. It wasnt perfect after that but it was sooo much better. Once I removed the big problems I was able to literally breathe better - the space around me was so much more empty, beautiful, easier and faster to clean. Now I have some things I need to finish (like going through my clothes and realizing that I do not fit in half of them) but I am so much happier.
It is true that with just small everyday steps you can keep the space clean and remove obstacles. Just dont let it become as bad as it can get... learned that the hard way.
This reminds me a lot of dealing with addiction... you need to get to the root of the problem, and it’s an every day struggle
I don't have a problem with decluttering some things. It's the saying goodbye to craft things knowing that if you let it go, you won't get to do it again. (Disability pension so rebuying is not available). And also knowing that you have more stuff than you will be able to do in your life, but letting go of them is acknowledging your mortality, and that there will be a time when someone else will have to clear up the left overs of your life.
❤️
Then maybe ask yourself why you don’t do that activity?
@@es4666 A lot of time its about not being able to access it. When I was umming and ahhing about throwing out my crochet supplies thinking I would never crochet again, I pulled them all out. Once out, I looked at what I had, and started crocheting again. That was 3 years ago. I've made multiple blankets, shawls, scarves, amigurumi - and have more crochet supplies that I am using than when I started. The same goes with papercraft, embroidery and sewing and colouring, doodling, bullet journalling. I do what I can get my hands on. (tl;dr I have thought about it. Its about being able to get to things)
I decluttered in 2019 and was able free up an entire room! It was definitely the gateway to learn how to handle my paperwork, which led me to start tackling my debt and curbing my spending. It also really helped with my anxiety!
Amazing! Well done you!
I’m also now working on our finances x
It's brilliant how decluttering just becomes the tip of the iceberg. Since beginning my decluttering journey 2 years ago, the realm of personal finance got minimised too. We are more aware of what we bring into the house now, saving money and have gotten out of debt. This has definitely helped with anxiety too as less stuff to do with and no longer living paycheck to paycheck.
@@sinkintostillness That's wonderful! It really does have massive knock-on effects on so many other areas of your life.
@@sinkintostillness You are my hero!
I've been decluttering for over 10 years. Before I even knew it had a name lol. My husband still hasn't got on board. It's a constant source of friction. Lucky he's a pretty good cook lol.
I’ll be honest, I’ve been a subscriber of this channel for a long, long time and every time I see a new video I’m still shocked you don’t have 500k subscribers. You have the best content and you actually care how your videos are edited. Get it together people lol join!!
I approve this message. 🤣 Seriously though, THANK YOU SO MUCH. That really means a lot. x
@@HowToGYST You deserve it! 🥰
Totally agree. Those folks are missing out. We are lucky. Love getting my htgyst fix. Laura you deserve an award. I love decluttering the Lucky Irish Laura way.
For me the best part of being a minimalist and decluttering is needing less and less to feel happy and fulfilled...I go shopping now and walk out with either nothing in my hands because I need nothing, or one or two well thought out intentionally acquired items that will actually add to my intentionally lived life rather than just add to my collection of random belongings.
Even though we're around the same age I definitely want to be you when I grow up. ☺️
I've been actively decluttering since the new year, and your videos have been some of my greatest inspiration! A big one I'm tackling this week is my email inbox, which I've largely ignored for the last 4 years. 2500 emails gone, only 150 to go! And too many unsubscribes to count... Stop the flow!
Wow! Go you! That's incredible. 😁
No one told me how chaotic the process would be, stuff everywhere to recycle, throw away, donate, sell, for months. I accepted it, and it was so worth it in the end!
When I feel stuck, I remember that even removing two or three things in a category will shift energy and usually when I make another pass at it, more items come forward that are ready to go away!
I feel the same way. The more items you let go, the more you realise you CAN let go. Building that decluttering muscle. 💪
Reasons I have trouble decluttering... My life. What would decluttering fix..... My life. Yep that one checks out. Hitting the nail on the head again Laura.
That wheel of cluttering and de-cluttering is THE WORST!! This is such an important point! Thank you!
Oooooh great insight! Understand the WHY of the clutter, otherwise get stuck in decluttering and recluttering - this is me! Thank you!
Decluttering has helped me stop shopping. The pandemic helped with that too, but I like not bringing more stuff in the house that I need to put away! 😂
Thank you for sharing that dear!., Helped me not feel so alone 🙏💕
It so good to know someone who understands me even if it's just a little. I hoarded food at the start of the pandemic out of share paranoia because I felt this pandemic was going to last 4 years. No kidding around. So, my emergency few thousands wasn't going to hold me for 4 years, my work hours were drastically reduced (even now May 2021) , under constant reminder from management the threat is pending of losing my job entirely due to the pandemic, and my community at one point was a hot spot for Covid. Well, seems counter intuitive but all the visual tower of boxes of food sprawled over the fridge top and the floor made my fear level spike instead of feeling secure; so I started to STOP buying more food, use what I had. To this date, I even share my excess food with three single moms.
@@martavillanueva1062
sheer* paranoia 😊👍👍
Great video! After being a minimalist over 3 years I had wished I had seen something like this when I started decluttering 💛
Same! Better late than never 😀
I used to have massive anxiety around not being able to find things and losing things now with a designated spot for most things it really helps
Getting my partner on board is really rough though...
I'm so encouraged in my decluttering! At first, I thought it would not be possible I was soooo overwhelmed until I took the first step! Taking that first step was very hard (so everyone don't dispair)and over the months your videos have helped me so much! I can't believe the positive difference it makes in my life! Thank you!🤗
"Tidy people are not tidy." Thank you! I'm tired of my tidiness being compared to others. I dislike uninvited company, because I don't get to clean and actually tidy up.
The benefit I experienced is time. If my home gets away from me, it doesn't take long to actually clean up and get it in order. I have time to do something I want. I can put more time to crafting and watching TV without the guilt looming overhead. It's been amazing. A slow process for sure (many, many small wins), but so worth it.
You’re super inspiring. Any time I’m in the shower now, on the way out if I have a bottle of something I’m not using or that’s old, it comes out with me. I’ve gotten several boxes of donation stuff taped up, ready to go, that’s been taking up space in a room I want to clean.
Baby steps.
Brilliant! Well done. 😁
You're right about the follow through. Removal is 1st step. The very next and necessary 2nd step is setting up a new system that makes it easier to put the item away than it is to leave out (not my wisdom). The good news I found is that even if you have to re-sort/ re-tidy etc it only takes minutes. G Ire
You're almost at 100k subscribers Laura! So exciting!
She’s SO close!! 😍
I really enjoy listening to you while I clean or declutter. It's like you are coaching or cheerleading for me even if I am not doing exactly what you are discussing. Thank you!
"Just because you find something that works perfectly in the moment, does not mean it's going to work forever " WAHHH! 😢 I am crying because this is true. I can ALMOST accept that this is an endless journey.
Endless, maybe, but easier and easier every day until it's almost effortless. 🙂
Great decluttering tips, it makes a huge difference to have an expert to admit that you too can get messy, also I love your new hairstyle.
Thank you. 😁 My hair's getting a little unruly now though. 😂
Naturally beautiful curls, a bit of unruliness only adds to the overall look
Awesome video! For me the "system" approach is a life changer. Even before I started decluttering, there were a few spots I organized by following the rule, which I didn't know back then - find a "home" for everything. And I have to admit, that months later, those are the only spots, which are clean no matter what. When I take something out of that spot, I know exactly where to put it back, so it never gets messy! I'm trying to implement that rule in all my rooms since then. Still in progres 😉 Keep fingers crossed for me! Love your videos, looking forward to a new one!
And I love your concept of 5-minute wonders/small bites!
About the husband: it took mine about seven years to start decluttering from the time I started so hang in there 😝 And now he’s even starting to become an organised and TIDY person! I’m over the moon! And my soon seven year old daughter has been asking me to help her declutter her things too. We’ve done toys, stuffed animals and craft supplies. This weekend we’re tackling jigsaw puzzles, magazines and board games. Knowing that things can go on to bring joy to other children has been a HUGE motivator for her - she’s not a fan of throwing things away but donating makes her feel good. I love having my family with me on this, finally! ❤️
My daughter's been very good about it. She regularly chooses things to donate, which is great. And I'm now holding out hope my husband might join the bandwagon too. 😂
@@HowToGYST Yeah, Scout seems to be doing amazing! I see learning to declutter as a gift we give our children. Having enough but not more. It’s an art and it has to be learnt ❤️ I’ll keep my fingers crossed for your husband (or keep my thumbs held, as we say in Swedish 😁)!
Congrats on your husband's transformation. My adult son will never change. I have to accept that or lose my mind.
I always love your approach to tweaking methods to work for youor switching methods. I think that's a reason that I really love decluttering videos in general because I like to have choices and variety because even if something's working changing it up in a different area or space might be necessary. I love hearing your wisdom and pitfalls. Always encouraging friend.
At 10:04 "Still waiting for my husband to jump on the decluttering bandwagon though, it's been about six, seven years now?" This is me !!!
Same here. The kitchen will be spotless by Friday he end of the day & it takes him 5 minutes to destroy it.
Lol seriously?
Your standards are so low.. speak up and tell him to clean up after himself and stop being a spoiled child.
Sounds like he's a burden
@@robingoudy6401 Reading comprehension not your strong suit?
I did not say he doesn't clean up after himself, nor is he "a spoiled child", or "a burden".
He's not into decluttering, just like a lot of people, including Laura's husband.
How dare you?
@@JamieM470 grow up. Sounds like I struck a nerve, maybe look inside yourself and acknowledge what's really bugging you about my comment. Truth hurts sometimes doesn't it.
@@robingoudy6401
I honestly feel that since decluttering and continuing to declutter that I have gotten better at speaking up for myself! I do agree with you ihat sometimes the "Bandwagon" is S L O W to catch on. Great content!
Wow, I’ve watched so many different decluttering videos and this is the first time that I realized that I have clutter in other places besides my house, like my office, my car, my email, my reminders. I think I just figured out why I never have time for anything, my whole life is cluttered. 😕 I’ve really got to start decluttering. Thanks for posting this video. You’ve got a new subscriber.
Invest the time now to save time (and space) later and setting up systems are key concepts that need to be front and center of every organizing/decluttering course...otherwise all those great tricks and tactics get lost in the piles that eventually build up again....wish my friend had emphasized that years ago when I took her organization courses. These concepts are finally sinking in and being applied (more regularly)...
@howtogyst in the USA, many people won't know what a skip is. Here they use the word dumpster. :)
Thanks! I had no idea!
I still need to get back there but I will say that a benefit of decluttering was definitely less fights with my spouse. I can zone messes out but he's somebody who can't so he's the neat and tidy one in our relationship for sure. Having a lot of the excess clutter definitely creates more tension and one of her rooms are cleaner or more serene that lessons anxiety overall for all of us. And then since we're both less stressed we will snap less. I was actually surprised how much it made an impact before. Thanks for the reminder that's definitely a good reason to get it back to clean and serene. We both currently are in high stress modes.... not with each other but in general. Work and kids and life.
I call it finding the flow: finding how things are used, where and how you can set it up so it's easy to use, easy to put back so your life flows. When you find what works it seems transparent, but it takes so many tries and experiments to get there.
Oh yes, a lot of trial and error.
I loved your idea that clutter is not just physical...must go away and think about that one!
You'll be amazed how much you find! And when you identify it, you can tackle it. 🙂
This video makes so much sense to me. It's very inspiring and motivating. I just give up thinking I can't declutter because I was trying to have the perfect uncluttered home.
Thanks for sharing these secrets. I am going to start again tomorrow because it doesn't have to be a huge mission to declutter. It can be done in bite-sized chunks and ultimately reach the same goal without any of the feelings of guilt or failure.
Thank you so very much
Absolutely! All those little chunks add up to BIG progress.
oooo This hit home "Take what works, TWEAK THE REST!" I definitely find myself hung up and trying to do things "just so" - those words HIT! They were like someone raining down freedom upon my shoulders - Thank you SO MUCH!!! I've kind of heard this type of thing before, but just the way you said it and the simplicity just really finally sunk in!!
Such great points! So important, don't miss the follow through. Also, the last step is the most fun and most gratifying, get it OUT of your house! I put stuff directly in my car and then take it to the donation center. (It helps that I live about 2 minutes away).
It feels SO GOOD to actually get rid of it.
one of the best things I did was decluttering plates, bowls, utensils, glasses and mugs. I kept two plates per person (with a few more as back up for guests, I'm not a big entertainer), one bowl each, a couple of mugs and glasses, and a few of each utensil. before I did this, I used to long for a dishwasher. after - I wouldn't have one if you gave it to me for free. I don't need one. there is built in motivation to do the dishes, because you need them for the next meal. you can't afford to have them sitting in the sink for days because there's nothing else to use. doing the dishes became much less of a big deal. I housesat for my brother recently and couldn't believe how much silverware they had for just two people - it was overflowing the tray. same with coffee cups, they barely fit in the cupboard. you know you're not using the ones at the back anyway, or the silverware at the bottom of the tray.
My main decluttering problem is that because of the pandemic all places that normally accept donations are closed and everything I tried to declutter is just sitting in boxes. I really hope they open up again soon. Some of those boxes have been waiting to be donated for 6 months!
Wow! Absolutely Amazing! True True!
Thank you for your help and video!
May you be blessed for it dear ! 🙏
I'm so glad you liked it. Thank you!
another way others can help you - my daughter, who I raised to get rid of things, is a big help with things like books. she'll go to the shelf and point out a book and say, come on, this? you can get rid of this. and then I either defend keeping it or agree with her and get rid of it. she doesn't have any attachment to my things so she'll suggest things I might not have even considered.
Laura I love your videos. Thanks so much. I have listened to just about all the Minimal Mum's and now starting on yours. So thanks again and Happy Weekend 😊☘️☘️☘️
love your hair
Thanks. 😁
Last week, I organized the packs of tuna fish that had accumulated in a pantry drawer. My grandson, the tuna fiend, says, “I had no idea we had that much tuna fish!” maybe he will stop buying it now and use what he has...a small declutter victory!
Yay! It's the little things. 😊
I'm not a minimalist don't really want to sounds to stressful. I just don't want too much stuff in my house. I get rid of things I have no use for or I could care less about. Obviously I don't get rid of things I don't love because I need them like cleaning rags no I don't love cleaning rags they don't "spark Joy" but I need them to wipe up spills or clean house.
You pretty much just said I don't want to be a minimalist then described yourself sounding like a minimalist lol...keep what you need/want and chuck the rest.... definitely me...as a minimalist..and way less stressed than when I held on to everything
I needed to hear this I have been working on this from 2019. It's 2021 and finally seeing progress
My problem is my health is not good. One job exhausts me. After an illness in bed for weeks or months the clutter has increased and chores built up. Tryed that pulling everything out of my closet and put in a pile. The pile is still in the corner of my bedroom with the clothes I wear on top and I can't even get into the closet because the pile is there. The garage has been cleaned out twice and quickly fills up with business storage and other things. I did manage to clean out a space in the back below the cabinets and buy a small freezer which I have wanted to do for years. I have no storage or file cabinets or even a desk for my stuff. Finding important papers is always a nightmare. I did get rid if a lot of stuff to the Goodwill selling it or bringing it to the dump. But I have a lot of stuff from my parents house and my old larger home so after months of working in it there was a long pause. Now I am looking at the lower floor needing to be cleaned out and a water problem created some mold in a ceiling and a closet that I just discovered. No money to pay for help with that.
Yes, I know that myself too well. I have mobility issues, my right hip is in a dreadful condition, it hurts constantly. Making the decision to toss or keep is tough. It's not about tossing, it's about keeping the stuff you love and want to spend the rest of your life with.
I feel compassionate towards your challenges.
Chronic pain and physical (and mental) health issues can absolutely make it feel impossible but in the end getting rid of excess and setting yourself up for success by making things easier on yourself in the long run....it had a profound effect on my life and health going from someone who had far too much to mentally and physically deal with to someone who only has a few dishes to wash,an empty floor to dust mop, a few special items to dust etc...and if I don't do it for a while it doesn't pile up too high because there's not enough stuff to do so....I hope you have a support circle to help get things under control and more manageable and I wish I could come help,I'm not super spry myself but I would try to do what I could ..💗
I naturally like to collect and gather things. Thru the years of learning about organization, I always learn more. I am so glad you shared the fact that even after decluttering, things can get a bit messy at times. Life changes so the things ya need, don't need changes. Systems that worked prior might need to be tweaked. Sometimes the system just needs to be tossed and a new one could work better now. I used to think decluttering was a one and done experience. Now, I recognize and would say that decluttering is an ongoing choice for me. It gets easier and faster as the years go by because I am more confident with letting things go. It clears the way for new opportunities, new hobbies, and a new lifestyle as I grow in time. Makes me appreciate life and simple joys more daily. Love your insights on home organization!
I just found your channel and I'm excited to watch your other videos. I've been working on decluttering over the last 3 years. It's definitely a process but I feel I can breathe in my house again. Looking forward to trying your challenge!
The best decluttering strategy that has been working for me lately is as soon as I think I need to buy more storage furniture for something If I haven't used it in a while or do not want to display the item I immediately post it on the local buy nothing group in my area to see if someone else can use the item. I save money by not purchasing another piece of furniture that Won't fit in my already small home and I no longer need to store the item once it is picked up off my curb by someone who could use the items.
Nice! Buy Nothing groups are great.
Once you’ve tidied the first area you then have a space 😊
I love your chanel I am on my journey and feeling good thank you
Decluttering is the only way to survive for me. We live in a 2-bedroom flat, 90 sqm (about 970 sqf) for four people. Our kitchen is tiny and many things don't have a designated home, because frankly, I just don't have space for them. We don't have an office, just a desk in the corner of our living room. So the only way to survive is to have as little as possible.
I need u to come to my house n help me ...ur so calming n u make complete sense with practical advise...😁
This is a GREAT video!! Such great info!!! It really helped me! Even after being a minimalist for 4 years! Thank you!
Thanks for the pointers and the tough love LOL!! Great video!
Everything you said is SO TRUE!
Fantastic video young lady!!
When I moved I gave my sister two mini Van's full of craft stuff. Yes two van fulls!
Great segment, thank you.
Y’a I’m getting better ,it’s not in my nature but I want too . So i do one thing at a time . Its cause of my health problem . Before I could do my cleaning my whole house in two or three hours . But now it’s different.. why I want to be a minimalism is because to have more time to go and see my family . And friend etc
It really has so many knock-on benefits. You'll start to discover them all as you go. 🙂
Thank you so much for the talk.
Thanks for watching. 😁
awe, sweet puppy. =)
And Good secrets.
New subscriber here and I shared on FB. Well worth watching and very enjoyable.
Thanks so much!
Love this ❤️
A MA ZING A D V I C E ❗😍
Sound good to me.. I am in a run for it.
Go for it! 💪
How do you organize your clothes in your closet? ie...color, category, etc...
Type. Short-sleeve tops, long-sleeve, skirts, dresses, etc.
I have always liked the comment, "Don't pass it up, put it up!"
Similar to the one I like: "Don't put it down, put it away". 🙂
Omg where did the hair come from! Have you had extensions. It’s so long now. It was a pixie cut last year I’m sure 🥰
My hair grows incredibly quickly. Haven't had it cut since before the pandemic and it's just taken over. 😂
Bird's Custard:)
I have a black belt in procrastination.
I live with person who's depressed, doesn't do any self care, cook or clear and yet expects me to do it.... I hate living alone
It may be time for some professional help. x
Yes, it is hard to deal with having no help while with another person. I take anxiety meds, thankfully, but still feel distressed often. I have discarded some of my late mother's stuff (and my own) but painfully slow working on my own.
@@lisamcdonald2877 Progress is progress, and you should be very proud of that. There's no rush. x
I am surprised that I had so many items I never used-2 hairdryers, a bathroom scale, too many plastic food containers, clothes that I didn’t like or worn or stained, garden gloves, container bins and baskets, unplaced games, cords,
I am also surprised that I didn’t know I had too much stuff and that Liffey could be easier with less. Even when people told me I had too much, I didn’t understand the connection between amount and the time managing the stuff took. Over time I am shopping less, being aware to put purchases away, to have a place to put items needing mending etc. I am 71,a retired professor, and I am optimistic. I want more time for hobbies.
👌✨
Habitat for humanity. They will take old furniture away for you, but you have to have it outside in the yard or on your driveway. They will not go inside your house and remove anything except for an extra price. The furniture can't be old and broken and it has to be in relatively good condition. You contact them and send them a photo of your items one at a time.
Is the donation for an excellent cause.
I'd like to donate where the cause is good. Such as a place for animals to be rehabilitated. For a hospital auxiliary so that we can have more beds and better equipment.
Great suggestion!
What I can't have a Pinterest perfect home! 🤣
I’m more confident
I thought it was nice that you had your little girl rolling down the hill. We all need to be like little children so we can enjoyed life without all the clutter. She doesn't have clutter in her brain. Remember when we were young we were just like that
Yeah, kids can teach us so much!