Rachel: never worry about frequency of videos -- I love your videos because they are a reflection of your balanced life, and the fact that they are few and far between just makes me enjoy them even more. Your wisdom and warmth is from authenticity, and not seeking after celebrity or whatever. Make them whenever YOU please, is my humble advice.
As a kid i hated when my prents "stole" my stuff and I would always notice. When they changed it to "what dont you like anymore and can we give to other children who dont have many toys" i started decluttering on my own and kept the habit until today.
This is what i do with my children also. And when my daughter was four she still understood it enough to be able to do it. It does make things easier with them!
One reason this works so well is we don't feel like we're "getting rid of it" but rather sending it out into the world where someone will give it a good home! (We do love our stuff!)
Me too. My parents were quite the packrats, but they would get rid of my stuff. I still remember the time they got rid of what was my favourite teddy (I guess they didn't know that), and yet their house was still stuffed to the gills with their stuff. It's taken a long time to get over the hoarding mentality that I picked up, and I think it was made worse because my stuff would sometimes disappear, so I held onto it all the more tightly.
I had to clean out my parents full house (they both passed away in their 50s) They were not hoarders but just still had a full 4 bedroom home. I was able to get rid of the stuff and keep a few things that reminded me of them. But I decided that I didn’t want my kids to have to deal with things like an attic full of memories and a full basement of old unused items. That’s why I started decluttering and I’ve honestly become addicted!! I’ve told my teens that if anything happened to me to never keep anything out of guilt. I’m still trying to get my hubbs on the same page but I “think” he’s starting to come around;) I enjoy all of your videos. You have such insight on this subject!!
I have released 10 items a day from my home for the last 3 years. Have not missed a single day. Get it done in a few minutes each day and I have totally reclaimed my home. THOUSANDS of items have left and I dont miss a single one. If I desperately need something, I will go buy a new one
@@MessyMinimalist Not a single one. It is my desire to have absolutely NOTHING stored, (other than seasonal clothing and holiday decor) If it is not being used it is going. I have found a way display any treasures that I have decided to keep. What is the sense of having them in boxes in the attic if you "love" them...My home has never looked so good. Will never be a true minimalist because I love decor (makes a house a home) but I will USE everything I own
My mom passed away three years ago and I inherited almost all of her stuff. It took me two years to be ready to go through any of it or even think about parting with anything. But the stuff just sat in my garage which was extremely guilt-inducing. So I appreciate when you talk about dealing with your mom's stuff! I now have a tote that has my most precious memorabilia from her and it's comforting to know I only have what's most important and that those items aren't getting lost in a mountain of things that don't matter to me.
Colbie good for you for reducing it to a tote 😌 I’m sure that was a tough process. I still have probably 5 totes of misc things (mostly photos/papers) of hers that I need to go through. I’m saving them for last because they are by far the most difficult items to confront. Take care 😘
@@MessyMinimalist oh man, getting all of the photos into photo albums was by far the most satisfying and draining thing ever! Love your content, you take care as well!
Letting go of things that belonged to our loved ones that have passed away can be extremely difficult. My late husband has been gone 8 years and I am still sorting through his things. I'm slowly learning to let go.
My two oldest daughters (ages 7 and 5) are very sentimental. They each have a special clear box (so they can see inside) to keep their special rocks, leaves, etc. Once it's full, they need to declutter. It's worked for them beautifully.
I feel like I should have just paid for your first answer. "I was fearing regret itself; I wasn't regretting the item." I just decluttered my entire closet after hearing that. What other magic do you posess? I'll be binging on your videos to find more nuggets of knowledge! Thank you! 😘
One thing you can do to get others to minimize, and this is what I do, is put a large box in the entry, and ask them to put things in it that are too little, and if they haven’t worn it or used it in 6 months, put it in the box, both my kids come with more than even I would have gather from their rooms, I also ask them to look again, and they usually bring out more stuff then. If I leave the box there for a couple of weeks, they add to it slowly and if there are any regrets, they can have time to think that through.
I like this. The kids can "try it out" in the box, which feels safer than a quick give away. I think that they would grow to trust the process and be riskier. It would probably help to have the box closed so it doesn't always remind them what they are missing (like they are making the decision over and over)? To be honest, I have a box like this in my closet for clothes. It allows me to take the risk without immediately paying the price, and makes me braver. (but I do certainly know that there is a time and place for Just Doing It :) )
Hi Rachel, I have a question. What happened to all the unfinished projects ( example: rail of stairs on the avalanche effect video)? Did you finish them? Not? Why not? Can you reflect on that? I have an issue on finishing projects and would gladly hear your take on it. Thanks!
For your four year old ,if she wants to hold on to things just tell her,if she wants to keep a thing she has to keep it tidy,and not leave her stuff scattered all over the house.As a teacher of young children for over forty years I have found the children love to organise their class at school and always love to help the teacher keep the room and all the stuff in order.It gives them autonomy and a sense of control over their own environment which has to be shared with others.
Me too I have the same problems with stuff. I also love to bring home others casts off. My grown daughter moved in with her children and started collecting lots of stuff incase she ever moves out. We live in a big beautiful house my husband built but can't finish because the stuff fills rooms and where do we move it to work. Unfortunately we are both pack rats so... My husband is building a three stall garage to put the stuff into finish the house. Now this sounds bad but there is more we own a house and 2 garages and several farm out buildings across the road all full of you guess it stuff. I grew up with having to make something out of nothing almost all my life. You learn great skills form it but you also learn to collect stuff because you might need it someday. We have a free store that has opened in our town. It has taken me talking to myself alot but here it goes. I am cleaning 1 area a day and donating it to the free store. If I really need something it will be at the free store or I will borrow or get a new one somehow. I am not pushing myself as to how much I give and how much I keep. When I am done I plan on just going back through everything again. I think I could get rid of 2/3s of my stuff and not miss it. I am at the beginning of the take back my home and life journey.
Something that helps me is to think about my stuff when I am resting in the room, or even in the night with no visual cue. I think about why I have it and where it might go if I got rid of it and what other item might be used instead (that I already have) and any other question that comes up. I've noticed that when my mom comes (a natural declutterer, who not only does it well but enjoys it and enables others to do it) I am ready to make fast decisions because I've got my vision. I am a person who really does better if I think I'm doing "right" by each piece which is not very efficient. I can also do this process with my eldest daughter. I don't know if you work better with a partner but I do some of my best work with my mom or my kid (the kid is 35 and has a husband, 4 kids, and her own big house). Anyway, I'm glad that you are starting the process, no matter the speed, and curbing the impulses to add :)
My mother became a hoarder and her house was so full you couldn’t get to the light fixtures to replace a bulb, she had drop lights hung around in places or used flash lights !! It was really sad, I lived 1000 miles away and when I did go back home I had to stay someplace else and she would get very angry if I tried to help her. It was hard letting her live like that and it was hell cleaning it up after she passed !!!
I've decluttered a lot of stuff, and the 2-3 items I've regretted donating were nothing compared to how I feel about not having so much baggage. I gain so much functionality by having fewer things in the way of the things I actually need and use. Thank you for being an inspiration on my journey and encouraging me to keep going!
I think it's amazing that you never regret giving up any of your decluttered items. Sometimes after I donate something, within a few weeks I need it! It's something that I haven't used in a long time, but then suddenly I need it. Maybe there is some psychology to it. That being said, most of the decluttering I do is so LIBERATING! It feels so good to open a closet door or walk into a room and everything feels so neat and clean. I am with you all the way. You have inspired me to be a more mindful person as far as material items. I've always donated to nonprofit groups and charities and am happy to give things I don't need or am not using to those in need. My son went on a mission trip when he was in college, and had a profound experience. They had gathered a truck full of donated household items, furniture, clothing, etc. and delivered it people living in desperate situations. There was a young mother with a toddler and a baby living in one of the sponsored apartments who really touched his heart. She had NOTHING but the very few clothes and diapers. No furniture, almost no kitchen items, nothing. There she was with them sitting on the floor. He and his buddies moved some furniture in for her and helped set up a mini kitchen for her. I am saying this to encourage others to give. It can be life changing for someone like this young family.
So glad you are making your way back to videos but always put your family before us. Your baby will grow before you know it. Really enjoyed this share! Thank you! The hoarder inside me wants to go to those trash days.
So great to see a video from you, as always 🤗 My daughters love collecting outdoor “treasures”, and we limit them by giving them each a shoebox to keep those things in. If their shoebox is full of their nature things and they want to add something new, they have to make room for it by letting something go. It’s a great way to teach them to make their own choices without you going too crazy in the meantime! 😉 we have done the same thing with their clothes- they get gifted clothes a fair amount, but it has to fit in their drawers comfortably! They can pick out a shirt or pair of pants they are no longer interested in wearing to make room.
haha, ty! This one isn't as exciting as my others... but just trying something new since I get a lot of questions and little time to answer them! Thanks for watching!!
Fear of regret is so real. That’s such a good way to explain that feeling I get as certain thing are leaving my hands at the thrift store donation drop off.
Thank you for answering so honestly about why you have so much stuff 👍You are not alone, I share all of those sentiments and I also hate good items being wasted (a full kitchen island!?!) as well as being an avid recycler and an artisan. . . . It all leads to stuff n clutter! Your videos help me so much & I'm always pleased to see you on here whether it is one a week or once in a while 🌹🌹
I've never heard anyone else talk about shopping as a hobby during childhood and how cluttered your home can get. I've definitely experienced this both as a child and an adult.
Professionals say we use 20% of our stuff 80% of the time. As grandparents we purchase clothes, useful items, and consumables for our grandchildren's gifts...for the most part....like cute toothbrushes, bubble bath, etc. Great video.
I can relate to the feelings of regret that you speak of. For me, it's regret that I wasted money on something I didn't like or use much so not getting rid of things meant I didn't need to look at my behavior. I have learned to buy with more intention, develop my taste and trust in my own hard earned choices (not others- including advertisers). Doing that has helped greatly with how I feel about dressing and about the home I live in. My self esteem has exponentially improved and I continue the journey. Thanks for you're videos of grace and clarity.
I can relate to your daughter, I kept everything as a child and was extremely sentimental. That went on up until I moved out, and I realized packing up all my stuff was an absolute nightmare and I basically turned into and overnight minimalist haha the older I get the more minimalist I become. So don’t lose hope! It may just take time.
Thank you for being so open and sharing so much about yourself! I accumulated a lot of stuff the same way, from thrift stores or craigslist free, or rescue from the trash. It is hard to think of perfectly good things going to the landfill. But I did figure out I don't want to store all those things in my home.
I really love how you kindly brought us to the reality behind simple bad habits. Especially when you talked about getting something for you kid each time you go out, or that your spaces can only hold so much. I thought it was such a nice positive way to tell us how much those things can add up and hurt us in the long run. Love your videos!
Can relate to how I accumulated items. My mom would even bring us special little gifts when she would come home from somewhere so it very much becomes a mentality. My grandmother was also a hoarder and I was definitely on the way to becoming one, and bought way more things than I needed. So that will always be more of a regret than anything I could ever throw out. I've only had small regrets for things I've decluttered but nothing that actually hinders me from living my life. Regret keeping more stuff than anything!
when you described the sentimentality of your daughter-and then what KINDS of things she tends to keep, it made me think of this: what if there were a little space outside, with rocks or something around it that was designated as her garden space. if there are jars or something, she’ll have a place to put the leaves and feathers and fluffy things, whereas the rocks and things if more substantial weight could be like her version of a zen garden. i think not having the thing may cause the anxiety-but having it nearby (outside the house but in a designated, creative space)-could alleviate some of that anxiety. you can have mommy’s garden and (i dont recall your firstborn’s name)’s garden. It may be a great solution for the things that belong outside... while still claiming her space and her territory-and her right to decide about collecting or keeping things. maybe you already do that but it came to mind as you were describing your daughter. i hope that its a helpful idea and a creative outlet for her.
Awesome video! I am on the same page as you! Our 3 year journey with minimalism and giving away 1000s of items over the years, I don't miss any of it. Not jewelry, yearbooks, baby mementos, decor etc. To be honest now I get rid of things if I think my 3 girls will feel guilty to get rid of it when they're older. Love your videos Rachel and thankful for YOU. Take your time to be present with your family...we will always be here. They come first. I am so proud of you. Best Mom!
Hi Rachel! Motherhood is terrifying to me, definitely wasn't expecting much content immediately after you had your daughter! Also, quick tip for when your eldest gets a bit older: from the ages of 8 to 12 ish my only space to really decorate my room was my windowsill. So obviously I had a lot of knick-knacks (from fossils I'd found to ceramic souvenirs) but my mother encouraged me to put away the stuff that didn't really fit away in a box so that the windowsill didn't become overcluttered. It was a fun "grown up" thing for me to do, store away items and periodically decide how to change the "decor" of my room...just a thought, it meant that I was a tiny bit more conscious about the stuff I had in my room and I never felt like she was trying to make me get rid of stuff (but I eventually noticed myself when I never put certain things back on that windowsill: then, it would go to a garage sale!).
I have two kiddos, one is 6 and one is 4. We have what I like to call collection bins. One of them enjoys collecting pine cones the other is a rock collector. This allows them their Treasures, but with a defined limit to what they can hold. I feel that it teaches them that they are allowed to have things that they're interested in but everything should be in moderation and have a place where it belongs.
This also teaches them to evaluate their things, and make a value determination, and let go of what matters least. That small scale experience in childhood is practice for applying to their lives later on.
I have a Question for you: How did you end up owning a motel? Did you inherit? If not, how did you pick the location and manage the finances - I see that your motel has quite a bit of land. How did you come up with the idea to run a motel? I think it is amazing to live in such a nice area where other people go to spend their holidays. I really like your approach to minimalism! We live in a big old house and when I look at our furniture, most of them are passed on to us or we bought them quite cheap (IKEA). I thought about the burning house exercise and I couldn't think of anything, that would break my heart if it dissappeared, and yet I can't just send it all to landfill. At the same time I feel overwhelmed by the amount, we have. There are many rooms with many shelves, so that you don't see it all at the same time. Seeing you chipping away gives me new inspiration to think about it all and make some changes! Thanks a lot! Glad you are back. Just finished watching all the previous episodes and getting addicted! Whishing you all the best for you and your family!!!
My only decluttering regret was a green pot. I was quite happy that it was that simple. Nothing to worry about. I can live without that pot. 😁 And yesterday I found it again when I was decluttering a box of pots... I threw away all other pots and kept the green one.
Love this video! I love all your videos but totally understand taking time off because of a newborn. My husband and I and our 3 kids are currently living in my grandparents home. It is been a life lesson to me not to hold on to everything. While my grand parents weren't Hoarders there was definitely a lot of stuff still left even after a first wave of de junking. It took my husband and I almost 4 years to finally do a big purge of the basement where a lot of my grandfather's woodworking stuff was living. We kept a few things since my husband is also handy but got rid of several garbage bags full of stuff and a trailer full of old furniture. It is been so awesome now to be able to breathe and have space in our basement for the things that we love. The biggest thing for me that I am learning by letting go is that it makes the few things you hold onto even sweeter.
My suggestion for you issue with your garage us to get or build a new storage space specifically just for your inn. That would be a great project for spring.
I am moving, right now, as I type. You opening up about your shopping habit, growing up getting goodies on each trip to town, etc, sounded spot on like my life. I am drowning in stuff and am having to move without a warning (we got a 60 day notice for no reason and no warning after 8 years in our beloved home.) So now we are confronted with a garage, a huge yard with 2 car port tents and our home all filled to the brim with stuff. I mean FILLED. Knowing you did not regret things you parted with makes me feel better. I can not tell you how much you encourage me. I know I am not the only one. Thank you for what you do and all of your honesty. You are changing lives, one video at a time.
Thank you so much for sharing! Even talking about deeper problems that you came to realize you even had. I have gone through the same. When it came to shopping was a big one, in having stuff! It's so freeing to talk about truths! ❤((hugs))
There have been times when I have regretted decluttering items. Perhaps 'regret' is too strong a word. It's more 'Oh, that would have been useful' or '(sigh) It's gone'. However, I can not think of a single example! Decluttering has made my life so much easier, and my home so much more pleasant. Your videos encourage me to keep up with the decluttering, and revisit areas every few months.
Thank for you for pointing out that everyone should have the right to deal with their stuff and feelings about their stuff - that you can’t just do it for them. Really great point that reminds me to work on my empathy when it comes to clutter...
I always am inspired by your videos. Thanks for your honesty re shopping... it really hits home for me. And my mom is also no longer living so decluttering is complicated or seems to be. It’s definitely a work in progress.
Miss your video's but family comes first! As my daughter who is almost two started to get more independent is when I began decluttering. I have com a long way in the last year. The worst spots in the house are the basement and garage no matter how hard we work we still have so much stuff! My oldest daughter is exactly like yours and loves ALL of her stuff just like her dad.
Hi, Rachel ! Ahhhhh another wonderful video from you ! Excellent ! You continue to inform & inspire me! Yes I agree w others here : no worries whatsoever about the frequency of your videos ! You put a lot into them & there’s always so much thought, heart & the wonderful Rachel authenticness, cuteness, insightfulness & relatability that we’ve come to LOVE ! Enjoy your daughters ! We’ll still be here ! Merry Christmas🎄 to you & your Family from Buffalo, NY !
I definitely was raised like you, my parents house was filled with stuff. We went to a lot of garage sales and shopping was definitely an event in it's self. We lived in lots of collections and lots of clutter. I am a work in progress on my journey to declutter and watching videos like yours inspire me to continue. Have a happy Thanksgiving.
Great video! That's a really profound point that you made: it's the fear of regret that keep us back rather than regretting the actual item leaving our hands. That resonated big time with me. Thank you for this video, Rachel. Enjoy these days with your beautiful little daughters. My boys are hs age and above. I miss those early days. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!🦃🍁🍊
I absolutely believe there are no coincidences in life and this video is perfect timing because I move in two weeks and my hardest part you nailed it with your first Q&A. Thank you for some much needed perspective. My plan is to mindfully pack for this move. Thank you!
Aww, thanks so much for answering those questions and being so transparent, I know that had to be hard to do. BTW, I was one of the many asking question number 5 and your answer was awesome, thanks again.
Yes!!! That's exactly it: the fear of regret! You hit the nail bang on the head. Although I do have 2 things I regret throwing away, because I had a lot of problems that followed that. So now I have the problem with this dear when deciding to declutter. Thank you for the video and your insights. And spend the time with your baby now, she'll grow so quickly before you know it.
Thank you so much for your honesty! Growing up we didn't have much and I was a sentimental hoarder. I would hide my treasures in my dresser because when mom found anything she would throw it away. As an adult when I started making my own money I started buying stuff. There was no one to say no you can't have it and certainly no one to toss it while I was at work. I went thru a thrift store phase when my son was younger. Now I am spending time I could be doing other things with to declutter. It has been hard. Everything seems to have an emotional attachment. I am getting over that hurdle though and have made great progress getting things out of the apartment. Always moving forward. :)
I would love to see a live session!! Whohoo. Please tell the day and time so I can add it to the calendar. My question is what does your other family members think of your journey such as siblings, grandparents, inlaws. Are they supportive? And how do you handle holidays with presents from family especially with kids.
Alana Stanton great questions - I’ll add these to my stockpile for a video response! And I’ll post a date for a live q&a well in advance, so as long as you follow me on one of my social networks you’ll know! :)
We do the same for our older daughter’s things (she’s 6). When we have her sort through her toys with me, we sort into keep, donate/yard sale, and maybe. The maybe pike has the same fate as the items I sort out for her and she knows about it-we’ll keep them in the basement for 6 months and if she still wants it we’ll pull it out. After 6 months it’s gone. She seems to do well with having that safety net...and she has yet to ask for a Maybe item!
Please keep the format like this, instead of switching to lifestream. Im from europe so time zone wise I could never join, and watching a lifestream back is very unappealing to me. Often they are longer and a bit chaotic and I just lose focus.
oh and ya the garage sucks as no matter how hard i try its the black hole. I purged it so amazing this summer and now it's full again, with crap. how!!!!
I am not saying your live session wouldnt be the exception, but, up to now, i have never watched a live session of anyone that i have enjoyed. I think there is a lot of value added in the editing and just avoiding the awkward pauses and interactions that come with live sessions. Plus all the distractions from trying to answer questions, et., are a bit annoyjng. Again, just my opinion. Have missed you these past 6 months and glad you are getting back into it. Totally understand and agree with your reasons, though,
I live with non minimalists who all like to collect things. I have learnt to allow this, but on one condition, they keep their stuff in their rooms. The regret I have when de-cluttering is thinking about how much money I spent which could have been saved. I also put my kids things away for a while in the spare bedroom to see if they miss it or not. I have also comprised that being a minimalist doesn't mean stark white everywhere. I have red and black themed areas as well. Reality: white couches get dirty with children and pets!
I have decluttered many times in my life (I have moved ALOT and tend to get rid of everything and start over on the other end). I have only regretted decluttering 2 items in all those years and moves. Neither was replaceable....but that regret does not slow down my decluttering.
I never asked but I was also amazed by the amount the stuff you had. Makes sense that you have all your mother's stuff. I've enjoyed watching you clear loads of it out. I feel your relief at the clearer living space. I'm looking forward to the end of the garage.
I have donated thousands of items over the years, especially when we moved last year. and never regretted a single one. I like the tax write off more. :) tfs 🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸
Hi Rachel! I couldn’t sleep and at 3am I was watching you channel. When you came to your last question and answer I found myself laughing at what you said. An island! But I could totally understand why someone would take a perfectly good island. 😊So I got a good laugh about that. Have a good day, Jean from Arizona 🦂🦎🏜🌵🌴☀️
Love your videos, love the Q&A! I am glad to hear you got such quality time with your new baby! Most people don't realize how time consuming videoing and editing is for these! I would love to know more about Innkeeping, even if you started a new channel. That has always been a dream of mine that I have yet to figure out how to take the leap of faith. Thanks for bringing us on your life journey and sharing with us!
No worries about "so much stuff" here. I get it. My dad has probably twice what you have. I missed you, but I had a baby too. I'm happy to wait for videos, as long as there will be more! I'd probably miss a live session, but it would be fun. If you announced when it'll be, I might make it.
I've been watching your videos for about a year now. I love your channel! When you did the last question about how you have so much stuff....that's me. I lost my mom just as I had gotten married and moved out. Not only am I super sentimental with what I already had, I then added all my mom's stuff on top of it. It's been long enough that it is now becoming easier to part with her things. I am glad you did this Q&A video. Definitely helps knowing other people are going through similar circumstances.
Love your videos!!! But, by all means, enjoy your baby. Time with our precious little ones is so fleeting . I will be here ready for a new video, and until then I will keep on decluttering. :) So no worries! Thank you for being so real and transparent. I have been doing my house along with you. Almost done. Then on to the garage. Yikes! I see a rage purge in my future. LOL.
Can totally relate to life being crazy with little ones. When you’re ready for UA-cam we’ll all still be here and excited to see your awesome content! 🥰❤️
I actually packed a bag of stuffed animals that my daughter didn't play with and started asking her what she would like give away to other children and babies. I told her she was turning three soon and will be getting new toys. She listened and didn't seem interested, but suprised me the day after her birthday by pulling out toys and telling me they were for the babies. Later on she found the bag of stuffed animals and I heard her saying "oh there you are. I've missed you so much." She than started wanting to get rid of her boss which I hadn't prepared for and found myself trying to talk her into keeping the books. I try to less by example when shopping. I encourage her to bring toys and try to remember snacks. Every once in a while we get a treat that usually food.
I am so happy you started posting videos again! I love every one of them. For me, the most difficult things to declutter are my kids toys.. they have so many and my husband + my mum keep buying things for them. Toys are the only thing in my apartment I haven't had courage to go through systematically...
So good to see you! Looking forward to seeing you more on You Tube! I'm from MI so something in my head just clicks to the "on" position when I see/hear you. Take care!
Thank you. You make me feel normal. And many of the things you said hit home as to why I have trouble letting go. You are one of the people who have really inspired me to let go. Thank you. I’m just glad you’re back. Congrats on the addition to your family
So good to see you again! Your thoughtful reflection helps me think about what is important to have, and what is not needed. You are so right about the fear of regret...you hit the nail on my number one reason I get stuck in my decluttering. It’s comforting to hear from you that you truly don’t regret giving up a thing. Am motivated now to get up tomorrow and fill it up with items to pass on . Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions today!
you could put a special basket for her rocks and feathers just outside the door. that way they dont come into the house and you can have a dedicated limited space for those things. :)
Thank you for sharing your decluttering road! Your channel has being the single one that help me the most to get rid of most of my extra stuff. You are awesome!! I love your videos. ❤️
So glad to see a new video from you! Love how you talked about the 'fear of regret' rather than regret itself. I've experienced this myself, and definitely see it a lot!! What you said makes a lot of sense. I'm on a massive decluttering journey myself and have been really inspired by all your videos!
So glad to see you're back! But also happy to hear you've been having good bonding time with your little one - nothing's more important than that. I have the same issue as you do with my older daughter and her hoarding possessions. It's tricky! Looking forward to your video on that.
UPDATE: Almost exactly a year ago, I left a weepy, distraught comment on your Swedish Death Cleaning video about trying to get rid of some of my great-Godmother's things. It was a real emotional struggle but I'm relieved to say I've been able to gift some of her great furniture to others who really needed and appreciated it and I just feel LIGHTER. It's like I can breathe again! Thank you SO MUCH for your videos, Rachel!
When do you plan to get back to tackling the garage? Just clean out one bay, put all the stuff for the inn there, and keep Inn Stuff separate from your personal house stuff.
Yes! The garage is the hardest for me too!! Ur videos are so informative and helpful!🙏🏽🙏🏽 when the college kids leave I go garbage picking too and I have a yard sale eight the stuff ... most of it is new and in great condition!
So glad you're back! I've been watching your videos since the beginning. Your family is like an extension of mine. I grew up with a grandfather who was a hoarder and when we would go visit (in Michigan!) He would always be taking our family garage sale-ing and had a pole barn full of things he "might" need. I totally understand where you are coming from. Love from Minneapolis!
Can we have a tour of your Inn?
Rachel: never worry about frequency of videos -- I love your videos because they are a reflection of your balanced life, and the fact that they are few and far between just makes me enjoy them even more. Your wisdom and warmth is from authenticity, and not seeking after celebrity or whatever. Make them whenever YOU please, is my humble advice.
As a kid i hated when my prents "stole" my stuff and I would always notice. When they changed it to "what dont you like anymore and can we give to other children who dont have many toys" i started decluttering on my own and kept the habit until today.
ninatheglittery this is great insight. Thank you for sharing!
This is what i do with my children also. And when my daughter was four she still understood it enough to be able to do it. It does make things easier with them!
This is how we tackle it with our younger kids 😊
One reason this works so well is we don't feel like we're "getting rid of it" but rather sending it out into the world where someone will give it a good home! (We do love our stuff!)
Me too. My parents were quite the packrats, but they would get rid of my stuff. I still remember the time they got rid of what was my favourite teddy (I guess they didn't know that), and yet their house was still stuffed to the gills with their stuff. It's taken a long time to get over the hoarding mentality that I picked up, and I think it was made worse because my stuff would sometimes disappear, so I held onto it all the more tightly.
Yes! Fear of regret is real, you're very good at putting these kinds of things into words. Thanks
Shaina Golden you’re welcome! 😉
I had to clean out my parents full house (they both passed away in their 50s) They were not hoarders but just still had a full 4 bedroom home. I was able to get rid of the stuff and keep a few things that reminded me of them. But I decided that I didn’t want my kids to have to deal with things like an attic full of memories and a full basement of old unused items. That’s why I started decluttering and I’ve honestly become addicted!! I’ve told my teens that if anything happened to me to never keep anything out of guilt. I’m still trying to get my hubbs on the same page but I “think” he’s starting to come around;)
I enjoy all of your videos. You have such insight on this subject!!
There is a book called Swedish Death Cleaning, which is essentially getting your affairs in order.
Jen Pants I am sorry for your loss. I lost both parents also within 6 months apart and parted with most of their things for the same reasons as you.
I have released 10 items a day from my home for the last 3 years. Have not missed a single day. Get it done in a few minutes each day and I have totally reclaimed my home. THOUSANDS of items have left and I dont miss a single one. If I desperately need something, I will go buy a new one
colleen L. THIS. 😁 glad to here you have no regrets.
Wow!!!
@@MessyMinimalist Not a single one. It is my desire to have absolutely NOTHING stored, (other than seasonal clothing and holiday decor) If it is not being used it is going. I have found a way display any treasures that I have decided to keep. What is the sense of having them in boxes in the attic if you "love" them...My home has never looked so good. Will never be a true minimalist because I love decor (makes a house a home) but I will USE everything I own
wow!! that is impressive Colleen!! amazing job!!! enjoy your "new" home!! :)))
My mom passed away three years ago and I inherited almost all of her stuff. It took me two years to be ready to go through any of it or even think about parting with anything. But the stuff just sat in my garage which was extremely guilt-inducing. So I appreciate when you talk about dealing with your mom's stuff!
I now have a tote that has my most precious memorabilia from her and it's comforting to know I only have what's most important and that those items aren't getting lost in a mountain of things that don't matter to me.
Colbie good for you for reducing it to a tote 😌 I’m sure that was a tough process. I still have probably 5 totes of misc things (mostly photos/papers) of hers that I need to go through. I’m saving them for last because they are by far the most difficult items to confront. Take care 😘
@@MessyMinimalist oh man, getting all of the photos into photo albums was by far the most satisfying and draining thing ever! Love your content, you take care as well!
Letting go of things that belonged to our loved ones that have passed away can be extremely difficult. My late husband has been gone 8 years and I am still sorting through his things. I'm slowly learning to let go.
@@RLSCS It is such a difficult thing and everyone needs to move at their own pace. Sending happy thoughts to you during the holidays!
My two oldest daughters (ages 7 and 5) are very sentimental. They each have a special clear box (so they can see inside) to keep their special rocks, leaves, etc. Once it's full, they need to declutter. It's worked for them beautifully.
Laura M what a great idea!
How big of a box? Like the clear shoebox size ones at Dollar Tree?
Margaret Gardner Yes, exactly 😀 My girls put stickers on theirs to personalize and beautify it.
Fear of regret.
Dude. That hits home in a real way. Oddly, not about decluttering for me, but about life in general.
I feel like I should have just paid for your first answer. "I was fearing regret itself; I wasn't regretting the item." I just decluttered my entire closet after hearing that. What other magic do you posess? I'll be binging on your videos to find more nuggets of knowledge! Thank you! 😘
One thing you can do to get others to minimize, and this is what I do, is put a large box in the entry, and ask them to put things in it that are too little, and if they haven’t worn it or used it in 6 months, put it in the box, both my kids come with more than even I would have gather from their rooms, I also ask them to look again, and they usually bring out more stuff then. If I leave the box there for a couple of weeks, they add to it slowly and if there are any regrets, they can have time to think that through.
I like this. The kids can "try it out" in the box, which feels safer than a quick give away. I think that they would grow to trust the process and be riskier. It would probably help to have the box closed so it doesn't always remind them what they are missing (like they are making the decision over and over)? To be honest, I have a box like this in my closet for clothes. It allows me to take the risk without immediately paying the price, and makes me braver. (but I do certainly know that there is a time and place for Just Doing It :) )
Hi Rachel, I have a question. What happened to all the unfinished projects ( example: rail of stairs on the avalanche effect video)? Did you finish them? Not? Why not? Can you reflect on that? I have an issue on finishing projects and would gladly hear your take on it. Thanks!
Me too. I have the same problem
ofevie g
For your four year old ,if she wants to hold on to things just tell her,if she wants to keep a thing she has to keep it tidy,and not leave her stuff scattered all over the house.As a teacher of young children for over forty years I have found the children love to organise their class at school and always love to help the teacher keep the room and all the stuff in order.It gives them autonomy and a sense of control over their own environment which has to be shared with others.
Me too I have the same problems with stuff. I also love to bring home others casts off. My grown daughter moved in with her children and started collecting lots of stuff incase she ever moves out. We live in a big beautiful house my husband built but can't finish because the stuff fills rooms and where do we move it to work. Unfortunately we are both pack rats so... My husband is building a three stall garage to put the stuff into finish the house. Now this sounds bad but there is more we own a house and 2 garages and several farm out buildings across the road all full of you guess it stuff. I grew up with having to make something out of nothing almost all my life. You learn great skills form it but you also learn to collect stuff because you might need it someday. We have a free store that has opened in our town. It has taken me talking to myself alot but here it goes. I am cleaning 1 area a day and donating it to the free store. If I really need something it will be at the free store or I will borrow or get a new one somehow. I am not pushing myself as to how much I give and how much I keep. When I am done I plan on just going back through everything again. I think I could get rid of 2/3s of my stuff and not miss it. I am at the beginning of the take back my home and life journey.
That's great- it's never too late to learn about yourself and grow. I wish you the best!
Something that helps me is to think about my stuff when I am resting in the room, or even in the night with no visual cue. I think about why I have it and where it might go if I got rid of it and what other item might be used instead (that I already have) and any other question that comes up. I've noticed that when my mom comes (a natural declutterer, who not only does it well but enjoys it and enables others to do it) I am ready to make fast decisions because I've got my vision. I am a person who really does better if I think I'm doing "right" by each piece which is not very efficient. I can also do this process with my eldest daughter. I don't know if you work better with a partner but I do some of my best work with my mom or my kid (the kid is 35 and has a husband, 4 kids, and her own big house). Anyway, I'm glad that you are starting the process, no matter the speed, and curbing the impulses to add :)
All the best with your decluttering journey Susan
My mother became a hoarder and her house was so full you couldn’t get to the light fixtures to replace a bulb, she had drop lights hung around in places or used flash lights !! It was really sad, I lived 1000 miles away and when I did go back home I had to stay someplace else and she would get very angry if I tried to help her. It was hard letting her live like that and it was hell cleaning it up after she passed !!!
I've decluttered a lot of stuff, and the 2-3 items I've regretted donating were nothing compared to how I feel about not having so much baggage. I gain so much functionality by having fewer things in the way of the things I actually need and use.
Thank you for being an inspiration on my journey and encouraging me to keep going!
I think it's amazing that you never regret giving up any of your decluttered items. Sometimes after I donate something, within a few weeks I need it! It's something that I haven't used in a long time, but then suddenly I need it. Maybe there is some psychology to it. That being said, most of the decluttering I do is so LIBERATING! It feels so good to open a closet door or walk into a room and everything feels so neat and clean. I am with you all the way. You have inspired me to be a more mindful person as far as material items. I've always donated to nonprofit groups and charities and am happy to give things I don't need or am not using to those in need. My son went on a mission trip when he was in college, and had a profound experience. They had gathered a truck full of donated household items, furniture, clothing, etc. and delivered it people living in desperate situations. There was a young mother with a toddler and a baby living in one of the sponsored apartments who really touched his heart. She had NOTHING but the very few clothes and diapers. No furniture, almost no kitchen items, nothing. There she was with them sitting on the floor. He and his buddies moved some furniture in for her and helped set up a mini kitchen for her. I am saying this to encourage others to give. It can be life changing for someone like this young family.
So glad you are making your way back to videos but always put your family before us. Your baby will grow before you know it. Really enjoyed this share! Thank you! The hoarder inside me wants to go to those trash days.
I hope you never go away. You have a way about you that inspires.
So great to see a video from you, as always 🤗 My daughters love collecting outdoor “treasures”, and we limit them by giving them each a shoebox to keep those things in. If their shoebox is full of their nature things and they want to add something new, they have to make room for it by letting something go. It’s a great way to teach them to make their own choices without you going too crazy in the meantime! 😉 we have done the same thing with their clothes- they get gifted clothes a fair amount, but it has to fit in their drawers comfortably! They can pick out a shirt or pair of pants they are no longer interested in wearing to make room.
Instantly stopping the video I was watching and immediately watching yours 🎉🎊😁
haha, ty! This one isn't as exciting as my others... but just trying something new since I get a lot of questions and little time to answer them! Thanks for watching!!
Messy Minimalist you‘re good company, so every video of yours is great 😊
Lol. I did that too.
Thank you so much for your genuine honesty in answering these questions. I love that you own your actions rather than blaming others or situations.
Fear of regret is so real. That’s such a good way to explain that feeling I get as certain thing are leaving my hands at the thrift store donation drop off.
Thank you for answering so honestly about why you have so much stuff 👍You are not alone, I share all of those sentiments and I also hate good items being wasted (a full kitchen island!?!) as well as being an avid recycler and an artisan. . . . It all leads to stuff n clutter! Your videos help me so much & I'm always pleased to see you on here whether it is one a week or once in a while 🌹🌹
I've never heard anyone else talk about shopping as a hobby during childhood and how cluttered your home can get. I've definitely experienced this both as a child and an adult.
“Fearing indecision.” That is it. You’ve summed it up perfectly.
Professionals say we use 20% of our stuff 80% of the time. As grandparents we purchase clothes, useful items, and consumables for our grandchildren's gifts...for the most part....like cute toothbrushes, bubble bath, etc. Great video.
I can relate to the feelings of regret that you speak of. For me, it's regret that I wasted money on something I didn't like or use much so not getting rid of things meant I didn't need to look at my behavior. I have learned to buy with more intention, develop my taste and trust in my own hard earned choices (not others- including advertisers). Doing that has helped greatly with how I feel about dressing and about the home I live in. My self esteem has exponentially improved and I continue the journey. Thanks for you're videos of grace and clarity.
You do and excellent job of describing what so many of us are feeling. Thank you!
Garage sales are a very good explanation for excessive stuff. I can bring home a van load of stuff every weekend during the summer season!
I can relate to your daughter, I kept everything as a child and was extremely sentimental. That went on up until I moved out, and I realized packing up all my stuff was an absolute nightmare and I basically turned into and overnight minimalist haha the older I get the more minimalist I become. So don’t lose hope! It may just take time.
Thank you for being so open and sharing so much about yourself! I accumulated a lot of stuff the same way, from thrift stores or craigslist free, or rescue from the trash. It is hard to think of perfectly good things going to the landfill. But I did figure out I don't want to store all those things in my home.
So glad you're back! Congratulations on your little one. Thanks for getting me back on the minimalist track!!!
I really love how you kindly brought us to the reality behind simple bad habits. Especially when you talked about getting something for you kid each time you go out, or that your spaces can only hold so much. I thought it was such a nice positive way to tell us how much those things can add up and hurt us in the long run. Love your videos!
Can relate to how I accumulated items. My mom would even bring us special little gifts when she would come home from somewhere so it very much becomes a mentality. My grandmother was also a hoarder and I was definitely on the way to becoming one, and bought way more things than I needed. So that will always be more of a regret than anything I could ever throw out. I've only had small regrets for things I've decluttered but nothing that actually hinders me from living my life. Regret keeping more stuff than anything!
when you described the sentimentality of your daughter-and then what KINDS of things she tends to keep, it made me think of this: what if there were a little space outside, with rocks or something around it that was designated as her garden space. if there are jars or something, she’ll have a place to put the leaves and feathers and fluffy things, whereas the rocks and things if more substantial weight could be like her version of a zen garden. i think not having the thing may cause the anxiety-but having it nearby (outside the house but in a designated, creative space)-could alleviate some of that anxiety. you can have mommy’s garden and (i dont recall your firstborn’s name)’s garden. It may be a great solution for the things that belong outside... while still claiming her space and her territory-and her right to decide about collecting or keeping things.
maybe you already do that but it came to mind as you were describing your daughter. i hope that its a helpful idea and a creative outlet for her.
Awesome video!
I am on the same page as you! Our 3 year journey with minimalism and giving away 1000s of items over the years, I don't miss any of it. Not jewelry, yearbooks, baby mementos, decor etc. To be honest now I get rid of things if I think my 3 girls will feel guilty to get rid of it when they're older.
Love your videos Rachel and thankful for YOU.
Take your time to be present with your family...we will always be here. They come first. I am so proud of you. Best Mom!
Hi Rachel! Motherhood is terrifying to me, definitely wasn't expecting much content immediately after you had your daughter! Also, quick tip for when your eldest gets a bit older: from the ages of 8 to 12 ish my only space to really decorate my room was my windowsill. So obviously I had a lot of knick-knacks (from fossils I'd found to ceramic souvenirs) but my mother encouraged me to put away the stuff that didn't really fit away in a box so that the windowsill didn't become overcluttered. It was a fun "grown up" thing for me to do, store away items and periodically decide how to change the "decor" of my room...just a thought, it meant that I was a tiny bit more conscious about the stuff I had in my room and I never felt like she was trying to make me get rid of stuff (but I eventually noticed myself when I never put certain things back on that windowsill: then, it would go to a garage sale!).
I have two kiddos, one is 6 and one is 4. We have what I like to call collection bins. One of them enjoys collecting pine cones the other is a rock collector. This allows them their Treasures, but with a defined limit to what they can hold. I feel that it teaches them that they are allowed to have things that they're interested in but everything should be in moderation and have a place where it belongs.
This also teaches them to evaluate their things, and make a value determination, and let go of what matters least. That small scale experience in childhood is practice for applying to their lives later on.
I have a Question for you: How did you end up owning a motel? Did you inherit? If not, how did you pick the location and manage the finances - I see that your motel has quite a bit of land. How did you come up with the idea to run a motel? I think it is amazing to live in such a nice area where other people go to spend their holidays.
I really like your approach to minimalism! We live in a big old house and when I look at our furniture, most of them are passed on to us or we bought them quite cheap (IKEA). I thought about the burning house exercise and I couldn't think of anything, that would break my heart if it dissappeared, and yet I can't just send it all to landfill. At the same time I feel overwhelmed by the amount, we have. There are many rooms with many shelves, so that you don't see it all at the same time. Seeing you chipping away gives me new inspiration to think about it all and make some changes! Thanks a lot! Glad you are back. Just finished watching all the previous episodes and getting addicted! Whishing you all the best for you and your family!!!
My only decluttering regret was a green pot. I was quite happy that it was that simple. Nothing to worry about. I can live without that pot. 😁 And yesterday I found it again when I was decluttering a box of pots... I threw away all other pots and kept the green one.
Love this video! I love all your videos but totally understand taking time off because of a newborn.
My husband and I and our 3 kids are currently living in my grandparents home. It is been a life lesson to me not to hold on to everything. While my grand parents weren't Hoarders there was definitely a lot of stuff still left even after a first wave of de junking. It took my husband and I almost 4 years to finally do a big purge of the basement where a lot of my grandfather's woodworking stuff was living. We kept a few things since my husband is also handy but got rid of several garbage bags full of stuff and a trailer full of old furniture. It is been so awesome now to be able to breathe and have space in our basement for the things that we love. The biggest thing for me that I am learning by letting go is that it makes the few things you hold onto even sweeter.
Enjoy that baby! I miss seeing your videos as often but you totally take the time for yourself and your family first.
I’m glad that I found this video....it answered my question about why you have the stuff. Thank you
yay!! definitely do a live Rachel!! That would be so much fun! :)))
My suggestion for you issue with your garage us to get or build a new storage space specifically just for your inn. That would be a great project for spring.
I am moving, right now, as I type. You opening up about your shopping habit, growing up getting goodies on each trip to town, etc, sounded spot on like my life. I am drowning in stuff and am having to move without a warning (we got a 60 day notice for no reason and no warning after 8 years in our beloved home.) So now we are confronted with a garage, a huge yard with 2 car port tents and our home all filled to the brim with stuff. I mean FILLED. Knowing you did not regret things you parted with makes me feel better. I can not tell you how much you encourage me. I know I am not the only one. Thank you for what you do and all of your honesty. You are changing lives, one video at a time.
Good luck! Keep all of the things that give you joy, and let go of the rest :)
You are kind and lovely with your words. Thanks for sharing your journey
Beth O you’re welcome. Thanks for watching :)
Thank you so much for sharing! Even talking about deeper problems that you came to realize you even had. I have gone through the same. When it came to shopping was a big one, in having stuff! It's so freeing to talk about truths! ❤((hugs))
There have been times when I have regretted decluttering items. Perhaps 'regret' is too strong a word. It's more 'Oh, that would have been useful' or '(sigh) It's gone'. However, I can not think of a single example!
Decluttering has made my life so much easier, and my home so much more pleasant. Your videos encourage me to keep up with the decluttering, and revisit areas every few months.
I appreciate your honesty and openness 😊
Thank for you for pointing out that everyone should have the right to deal with their stuff and feelings about their stuff - that you can’t just do it for them. Really great point that reminds me to work on my empathy when it comes to clutter...
I always am inspired by your videos. Thanks for your honesty re shopping... it really hits home for me. And my mom is also no longer living so decluttering is complicated or seems to be. It’s definitely a work in progress.
Miss your video's but family comes first! As my daughter who is almost two started to get more independent is when I began decluttering. I have com a long way in the last year. The worst spots in the house are the basement and garage no matter how hard we work we still have so much stuff! My oldest daughter is exactly like yours and loves ALL of her stuff just like her dad.
What a wonderful video! A live Q&A would be awesome :)
Sure glad to see you Back! So encouraging!
Hi, Rachel ! Ahhhhh another wonderful video from you ! Excellent ! You continue to inform & inspire me! Yes I agree w others here : no worries whatsoever about the frequency of your videos ! You put a lot into them & there’s always so much thought, heart & the wonderful Rachel authenticness, cuteness, insightfulness & relatability that we’ve come to LOVE ! Enjoy your daughters ! We’ll still be here ! Merry Christmas🎄 to you & your Family from Buffalo, NY !
This is great (as always) I have suddenly become very aware that I'm very guilty of the treats out with my three year old.
I adore you...you are a wonderful person. Every time you make my day.
I definitely was raised like you, my parents house was filled with stuff. We went to a lot of garage sales and shopping was definitely an event in it's self. We lived in lots of collections and lots of clutter. I am a work in progress on my journey to declutter and watching videos like yours inspire me to continue. Have a happy Thanksgiving.
Great video! That's a really profound point that you made: it's the fear of regret that keep us back rather than regretting the actual item leaving our hands. That resonated big time with me. Thank you for this video, Rachel. Enjoy these days with your beautiful little daughters. My boys are hs age and above. I miss those early days. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!🦃🍁🍊
I absolutely believe there are no coincidences in life and this video is perfect timing because I move in two weeks and my hardest part you nailed it with your first Q&A. Thank you for some much needed perspective. My plan is to mindfully pack for this move. Thank you!
Alicia Hauptman I’m so glad I could help :) take care and good luck with your move!
Aww, thanks so much for answering those questions and being so transparent, I know that had to be hard to do. BTW, I was one of the many asking question number 5 and your answer was awesome, thanks again.
Yes!!! That's exactly it: the fear of regret! You hit the nail bang on the head. Although I do have 2 things I regret throwing away, because I had a lot of problems that followed that. So now I have the problem with this dear when deciding to declutter.
Thank you for the video and your insights.
And spend the time with your baby now, she'll grow so quickly before you know it.
Thank you so much for your honesty! Growing up we didn't have much and I was a sentimental hoarder. I would hide my treasures in my dresser because when mom found anything she would throw it away. As an adult when I started making my own money I started buying stuff. There was no one to say no you can't have it and certainly no one to toss it while I was at work. I went thru a thrift store phase when my son was younger. Now I am spending time I could be doing other things with to declutter. It has been hard. Everything seems to have an emotional attachment. I am getting over that hurdle though and have made great progress getting things out of the apartment. Always moving forward. :)
I would love to see a live session!! Whohoo. Please tell the day and time so I can add it to the calendar.
My question is what does your other family members think of your journey such as siblings, grandparents, inlaws. Are they supportive?
And how do you handle holidays with presents from family especially with kids.
Alana Stanton great questions - I’ll add these to my stockpile for a video response! And I’ll post a date for a live q&a well in advance, so as long as you follow me on one of my social networks you’ll know! :)
We do the same for our older daughter’s things (she’s 6). When we have her sort through her toys with me, we sort into keep, donate/yard sale, and maybe. The maybe pike has the same fate as the items I sort out for her and she knows about it-we’ll keep them in the basement for 6 months and if she still wants it we’ll pull it out. After 6 months it’s gone. She seems to do well with having that safety net...and she has yet to ask for a Maybe item!
Please keep the format like this, instead of switching to lifestream. Im from europe so time zone wise I could never join, and watching a lifestream back is very unappealing to me. Often they are longer and a bit chaotic and I just lose focus.
WE miss you!!!!! thanks so much for posting!
oh and ya the garage sucks as no matter how hard i try its the black hole. I purged it so amazing this summer and now it's full again, with crap. how!!!!
I am not saying your live session wouldnt be the exception, but, up to now, i have never watched a live session of anyone that i have enjoyed. I think there is a lot of value added in the editing and just avoiding the awkward pauses and interactions that come with live sessions. Plus all the distractions from trying to answer questions, et., are a bit annoyjng. Again, just my opinion. Have missed you these past 6 months and glad you are getting back into it. Totally understand and agree with your reasons, though,
I live with non minimalists who all like to collect things. I have learnt to allow this, but on one condition, they keep their stuff in their rooms. The regret I have when de-cluttering is thinking about how much money I spent which could have been saved. I also put my kids things away for a while in the spare bedroom to see if they miss it or not. I have also comprised that being a minimalist doesn't mean stark white everywhere. I have red and black themed areas as well. Reality: white couches get dirty with children and pets!
I have decluttered many times in my life (I have moved ALOT and tend to get rid of everything and start over on the other end). I have only regretted decluttering 2 items in all those years and moves. Neither was replaceable....but that regret does not slow down my decluttering.
I never asked but I was also amazed by the amount the stuff you had. Makes sense that you have all your mother's stuff. I've enjoyed watching you clear loads of it out. I feel your relief at the clearer living space. I'm looking forward to the end of the garage.
I have donated thousands of items over the years, especially when we moved last year. and never regretted a single one. I like the tax write off more. :) tfs 🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸
Thanks for loading a video. Been missing them!
Thanks for watching!!
@@MessyMinimalist of course. I'm a MM junkie ;)
The garage is my struggle, too 😕. I’m going to get it done this summer....for real!
I have never regretted getting rid of anything as a minimalist for over 12 years.
Hi Rachel! I couldn’t sleep and at 3am I was watching you channel. When you came to your last question and answer I found myself laughing at what you said. An island! But I could totally understand why someone would take a perfectly good island. 😊So I got a good laugh about that. Have a good day, Jean from Arizona 🦂🦎🏜🌵🌴☀️
Love your videos, love the Q&A! I am glad to hear you got such quality time with your new baby! Most people don't realize how time consuming videoing and editing is for these! I would love to know more about Innkeeping, even if you started a new channel. That has always been a dream of mine that I have yet to figure out how to take the leap of faith. Thanks for bringing us on your life journey and sharing with us!
No worries about "so much stuff" here. I get it. My dad has probably twice what you have.
I missed you, but I had a baby too. I'm happy to wait for videos, as long as there will be more!
I'd probably miss a live session, but it would be fun. If you announced when it'll be, I might make it.
I've been watching your videos for about a year now. I love your channel! When you did the last question about how you have so much stuff....that's me. I lost my mom just as I had gotten married and moved out. Not only am I super sentimental with what I already had, I then added all my mom's stuff on top of it. It's been long enough that it is now becoming easier to part with her things. I am glad you did this Q&A video. Definitely helps knowing other people are going through similar circumstances.
Rachel great video! You got me sooo often! With the sentimental stuff 😂 🙈
Love your videos!!! But, by all means, enjoy your baby. Time with our precious little ones is so fleeting . I will be here ready for a new video, and until then I will keep on decluttering. :) So no worries! Thank you for being so real and transparent. I have been doing my house along with you. Almost done. Then on to the garage. Yikes! I see a rage purge in my future. LOL.
My husband is a natural minimalist too. He very rarely purchases anything for himself.😁
Can totally relate to life being crazy with little ones. When you’re ready for UA-cam we’ll all still be here and excited to see your awesome content! 🥰❤️
Glad you're back! :)
I actually packed a bag of stuffed animals that my daughter didn't play with and started asking her what she would like give away to other children and babies. I told her she was turning three soon and will be getting new toys. She listened and didn't seem interested, but suprised me the day after her birthday by pulling out toys and telling me they were for the babies. Later on she found the bag of stuffed animals and I heard her saying "oh there you are. I've missed you so much." She than started wanting to get rid of her boss which I hadn't prepared for and found myself trying to talk her into keeping the books. I try to less by example when shopping. I encourage her to bring toys and try to remember snacks. Every once in a while we get a treat that usually food.
I am so happy you started posting videos again! I love every one of them.
For me, the most difficult things to declutter are my kids toys.. they have so many and my husband + my mum keep buying things for them. Toys are the only thing in my apartment I haven't had courage to go through systematically...
So good to see you! Looking forward to seeing you more on You Tube! I'm from MI so something in my head just clicks to the "on" position when I see/hear you. Take care!
J Marie haha funny! Must be that Midwest accent!
Thank you. You make me feel normal. And many of the things you said hit home as to why I have trouble letting go. You are one of the people who have really inspired me to let go. Thank you. I’m just glad you’re back. Congrats on the addition to your family
Wow, great honest video! So true.
So good to see you again! Your thoughtful reflection helps me think about what is important to have, and what is not needed. You are so right about the fear of regret...you hit the nail on my number one reason I get stuck in my decluttering. It’s comforting to hear from you that you truly don’t regret giving up a thing. Am motivated now to get up tomorrow and fill it up with items to pass on . Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions today!
you could put a special basket for her rocks and feathers just outside the door. that way they dont come into the house and you can have a dedicated limited space for those things. :)
Thank you for sharing your decluttering road! Your channel has being the single one that help me the most to get rid of most of my extra stuff. You are awesome!! I love your videos. ❤️
So glad to see a new video from you! Love how you talked about the 'fear of regret' rather than regret itself. I've experienced this myself, and definitely see it a lot!! What you said makes a lot of sense. I'm on a massive decluttering journey myself and have been really inspired by all your videos!
So glad to see you're back! But also happy to hear you've been having good bonding time with your little one - nothing's more important than that. I have the same issue as you do with my older daughter and her hoarding possessions. It's tricky! Looking forward to your video on that.
UPDATE: Almost exactly a year ago, I left a weepy, distraught comment on your Swedish Death Cleaning video about trying to get rid of some of my great-Godmother's things. It was a real emotional struggle but I'm relieved to say I've been able to gift some of her great furniture to others who really needed and appreciated it and I just feel LIGHTER. It's like I can breathe again! Thank you SO MUCH for your videos, Rachel!
I appreciate your honesty. Most of my furniture is second hand.
When do you plan to get back to tackling the garage? Just clean out one bay, put all the stuff for the inn there, and keep Inn Stuff separate from your personal house stuff.
Yes! The garage is the hardest for me too!! Ur videos are so informative and helpful!🙏🏽🙏🏽 when the college kids leave I go garbage picking too and I have a yard sale eight the stuff ... most of it is new and in great condition!
So glad you're back! I've been watching your videos since the beginning. Your family is like an extension of mine. I grew up with a grandfather who was a hoarder and when we would go visit (in Michigan!) He would always be taking our family garage sale-ing and had a pole barn full of things he "might" need. I totally understand where you are coming from. Love from Minneapolis!