5 Surprising Signs You’re A Hoarder And Losing Money (with The Minimalists)

[@gerigowers8318]

Handling finances should be taught in every school.

[@prostoya1583]

Yes, and not the junk they are trying to push....

[@vikingprincess634]

That’s the parents’ job

[@gerigowers8318]

@@vikingprincess634 I agree to a point. My Granddaughter was learning about some health insurance differences (as in which would cost more in a particular situation). There are some areas parents might not be knowledgeable to explain. I've taught her the basics, but I learned a bit from what her teacher taught her.

[@donnaallgaier-lamberti3933]

I did not understand the "symptoms" of hording. At first it was (1) being in debt, a (2) condo full of gear (clutter in all rooms) and later on (3) buying, buying (and hiding them in the) pole barn and not telling the wife you brought more junk in. Then (4) spending day after day in the pole barn going through that stuff instead of spending time with the wife, the family, going on a trip, dancing or doing something else that is fun. Twenty years later, I get it.

[@su-annjackson6886]

Wow 20years later!

[@auberjean6873]

Donna Allgaier-Lamberti at least you got it 20 years later and are on your way of getting out of it's grasp on you. Some people never get it! Some get it but would rather be w things than people.

[@lilarose9348]

It really does interfere with enjoying life. Would you be willing to share tips on how you stopped. I feel like there’s a weight on my back but also a fear of stopping if that makes sense.

[@luisasterioquerubin6829]

Thank you for this. I would like to avoid debt.

[@BonnieHalfElven]

I think the word hoarder is tossed around too much. Actual hoarding is a mental illness. Most of us are just sloppy and a bit lazy. I have a lot of stuff, but I'm going through it and letting things go. I'm helping my mom de-clutter, because she has to move in less than a month. She's not a hoarder, either. But she is a pack rat, like me. This has been a great bonding experience, though.

[@jamilgotcher365]

IKR? We have lots of stuff but we always need our random things from time to time or my daughter needs something Dad and I have or my brother or cousin borrow stuff from us. Just last week my cousin needed to borrow my Dad's dolly to transport his air conditioner. My Dad used his tools (he has a lot of tools) to replace my daughter's car battery and his own car battery, both batteries died because of the heat wave we are having. I do think I'm over due to go through my clothes and get rid of some of them because I got some new ones. I don't know when I'm going to have time to go through all my modeling photos from a 15 year professional modeling career. I've organized them some but need to finish.

[@Kate98755]

for me to de-cluttering takes up precious time, so i have to continually do over tine because it’s not that fun…if it’s summer i have gardening that needs my time. So not so much lazy, but i have a long list….you probably do too, be kind to yourself.

[@jamilgotcher365]

@@Kate98755 Yes, summers are a terrible time to declutter because of the outdoor work. Although it's been too hot here to do outdoor work lately.

[@arawilson]

@@jamilgotcher365 Tools, I was wondering as well. Most places do not have tool libraries (which are great ideas) and rentals are costly.

[@jamilgotcher365]

@@arawilson I agree, tool libraries are a great idea. My Dad would hate it though lol.

[@DCB938]

As much as I hate admit it I think I’m a stage 3 hoarder ☹️ And it actually feels kind of freeing to openly admit it to others. First step is to recognize it and admit it. Now on to the next step. 😎

[@CrabDigs]

Buried in Treasures is the best book to work through for self help. Highly recommended by former hoarders and professionals.

[@wiskeybear-vanislandbc1562]

I was easily a stage 3 hoarder but Dana K White from “a slob comes clean” changed my life. She has 3 books out now and I recommend all of them especially the audio versions because they are great to listen too while you declutter. And her rules for example…”the container concept” changed the way I deal with my stuff. 🤯 Also Mom the Minimal Mom and Cass from Clutterbug are great too. The 3 do a boot camp together. I’ve never taken it but I’ve seen them all chat together and they make a great team with similar ideas. Very real life stuff not pretend clean.

[@DCB938]

@@wiskeybear-vanislandbc1562 Thank you

[@margaretsearle5173]

@@CrabDigs Or, try reading Prof Frost's account of the work of his team's investigations into this -- a very readable book, called Stuff. As I read it I wanted a 'work-book', and Buried in Treasures is it, but I prefer the original book.

[@kateweatherwax6484]

@@DCB938 I have to second the recommendation to read the A Slob Comes Clean blog. Start from blog #1 and go through the journey. Over the first two years I made so many large strides, and now five years later Dana's methods help me keep it under control. If I didn't have the physical energy to do decluttering I could just read her blog or listen to her podcast and train my brain to know how to do it. Then when I had energy/health I knew what to do. I think I started as a stage 3 (or stage 6 on the UK scale) and now I'm a stage 1 (2 on the UK scale). She really will change your life. Leave Minimal Mum and even Clutterbug til you've done Dana's methods for about 6 months to a year. The course is great but I'd also recommend that after you've had a bit of Dana time first.

[@sonnyh9774]

The economy is collapsing; supplies are dwindling in food and material supplies and will be depleted for the coming years; so, before you throw things away that may be useful in a grid down scenario.... one might want to consider the painful lessons learned during the great depression which is why many who went through that didn't throw much away.

[@alisatjaden3906]

Yes!!. Thank you!!

[@dennykeaton9701]

Agreed

[@markellinghaus5925]

Silly

[@talulatree5297]

Very very true!

[@talulatree5297]

@@markellinghaus5925 wake up!

[@marylhere]

Hoarders are often perfectionists. Can’t do anything if you can’t do it perfectly.

[@talulatree5297]

😊nice!💖

[@Ay-B]

True! I have to remind myself that "good enough" is enough. Also, I try to remember that solutions will come to me once I get started - I don't need all the answers before I start.

[@dwsel]

Yes, I can't go through the pile of old clothes unless I try them all and see if they still fit or not.

[@codyhoskisson7443]

It's interesting that you can get to those same stages by having deep depression and just not caring anymore about how clean your house is. Depression and hoarding are very different, but it is interesting that it can result in the same state of overwhelming house.

[@jannertfol]

I do think though, that there is a difference. There is a difference between not having the energy to clean your house, and feeling compelled to not only hang on everything you've ever owned, but refusing to let anybody talk you into throwing anything away. The result may look the same to a casual observer, but it's not stemming from the same thing, really. A depressed person usually finds the mess depressing, and either doesn't know where to start, or can't summon the energy to start. A hoarder finds the mess comforting. Any attempt to shift their mess will put a hoarder in a state of deep distress.

[@cremebrulee4759]

Depression can take away your motivation to do anything. There is no hope and no point in doing anything.

[@cariwaldick4898]

I'm a stage two hoarder. I don't buy much, but I have trouble throwing things away if they're still useful. For example, I've got several 3 lb metal coffee cans in my garage, I've been saving for some kind of project--planters, organization, etc. I'd happily give them away, but I don't want to throw them away. I've been adding one a week to my recycling bin, but it's hard to give up the creative notion that these can be repurposed. I've got a dish of seeds I want to plant. I've got a collection of craft supplies, fabric, and yarn, and I have to stay away from decor/craft stores or I'd buy more. I see potential in everything.

[@BootJamesOut]

Hello folks I'm the same I don't feel like I'm a hoarder so I m a stage two hobbies. I care to label myself. Plus I do know how having no money feels if not working. Good thing I'm well stock up in most areas I'll need, beside fresh food. Now I have to get into canning food. I'm out off room, living in a small room 10x15. Because I build or repair. A week or two after tossing out one thing, dam that would worked nicely for task at hand. 8 out of ten times I'm not justifying myself. I am a trend of my very own I refuse to follow the flow as they don't know how to lead. I reuse what others toss away. Remember they are here to sell us something look at their walls books and pictures. Shopping spots all have a coffee shop nearby, to up sell people without them knowing it. Stay clear. You know your purpose so grab what offers it back for your own happiness. Keep the goal just change the plan. Ride Easy

[@dianeathoacardinalridge8788]

Agreed andI’m working through this by seeing it as the opportunity to “give” the things away that I no longer need, knowing someone else may have that very need. It’s a process. 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@BootJamesOut]

@@dianeathoacardinalridge8788 Hello folks. I live right across from a big name thrift store. If I find out something one wants I'll get it too give. Sure I could redontated it back but the smaller stores ( Goodwill no stores for years in my big city) Sallyannie army do not get this massive level of drop off from the public. The Sallyannie army is always helping out around the world. The big name just help themselves in profits. If giving it away give to whomever you feel really needs it the most. The homeless shops after the stores are lock up. Now each morning they rip open all the bags token what they believe they can sell it for. Or small truck pulls up before they get there and takes it all. There's is money to be made. The wholesalers in a pack of six each morning to skim the cream off daily. Best picks but the store is there for the public as they supplying the items to sell for free. Rant

[@sarahspencer1010]

You're not even remotely a hoarder.

[@john-o1g9p]

''if they're still useful'' EVERY time i toss or give away, a day or a month later, i nedd it. i have stoppped doing it and live a calmer life. i have the space, why toss? my will has A RIDER FOR THE PURCHASE OF A DUMPSTER...

[@kathalinehansen7078]

Yes, the garage could be viewed. On the other hand, level 3 usually means a house room that cannot be used for its INTENDED PURPOSE. That means the sink can't be used for washing things or the couch for sitting. Or the bed for sleeping. Necessary functions. While the garage is often used FOR storage, the problem is TOO much is stored.

[@rebacarmack8335]

This is a great thing to be taught in school- something that is actually used daily- personal finance.

[@jomontanee]

I dream of one day money literacy can be taught in elementary schools on my country.

[@jenpisano5954]

RIGHT???!!!! THIS should be a REQUIREMENT IN ALL SCHOOLS

[@debracisneroshhp2827]

Just reading these 3 comments here cracks me up! NOTICE, they agree this subject 'should be taught in school'! How about, taught at home?!? If you're an adult and/or have a family do and teach from where it starts__at home! 😛😺

[@OdinsSage]

The important thing to remember is these levels require a SYSTEMIC AND CONSISTENT problem! If things are temporary or situational it is not a hoarding symptom. For instance, when I was collecting things for an event I kept everything stored in one room in my house and it got to the point where I couldn't use that room for a while. But when the event was over, the room was clear again. I WAS NOT a hoarder just because I had an unusable room for a period of time. Other example, when a person is moving house, sometimes it takes a while to really get everything sorted and moved in leading to stuff being in random places, bins and boxes everywhere, etc. As long as progress is being made this does not qualify as being a hoarder. HOARDER LEVELS REQUIRE SYSTEMIC BEHAVIORS THAT INTERFERE WITH A PERSONS LIFE AND WELL BEING

[@cremebrulee4759]

I agree. Also, unpacking is horrible.

[@john-o1g9p]

it's all click bait to get us mad and comment. these kids have a 7 point plan and it's talked out. they just do this for content clicks. nothing new...

[@larsonfamilyhouse]

Like Jerry Seinfeld says- the garage is basically the garbage! It’s only one letter away! He has a great bit on clutter lol

[@CrabDigs]

I have a friend who is a hoarder. It took her 25 years to go from stage one (when she first bought her home) to stage 5 where she is at now. She uses 100's of totes too besides just tossing things into rooms. She sees a psychiatrist for mental health issues but she has never told him about her hoarding. The struggle of letting go is real.

[@Freakazoid12345]

Women are obsessed with bags and totes.

[@audreyandrea460]

@@Freakazoid12345 Men are obsessed with tools.

[@Freakazoid12345]

@@audreyandrea460 (Tim Allen grunt)

[@maryfields1382]

I'm definitely a level one. I've been decluttering for years. My mantra is now "Enough" instead of "Just in case".

[@lynnebucher6537]

I never considered having some clutter on the counter as any sort of hoarding. I saw it more as someone that's just always in a rush and neglects to put things away. Incoming mail can easily pile up. I believe hoarding is when you continue to acquire things than you need, and do not thin out what you have so eventually your storage areas are overflowing and excess materials end up out in the open, and eventually entire rooms get piled up with stuff.

[@ndjubilant8391]

Denial abounds. Clearly they said LIGHT Stage 1 or 2 along the spectrum of hoarding.

[@BootJamesOut]

You might be onto something here. 1&2 is like most homes with clutter. May include hiding the dishes in the dishwasher for a week but it's out of site. Now never tossing out newspapers from the day one moved in is top shelf hordder as now the place is a maze. Moving works for me but I have to become another person that I wanted to be and be known as. Keep the goal change the plan. If one wants a different outcome.

[@stephaniem895]

Yes saying clutter on counter is equal to hoarding is way generalized. I have a lot of empty space, empty drawers, etc… I moved not even a year ago and am learning how to live in the space and how to set up functional systems. A lot of times it’s a systems issue not a hoarding issue. But Americans do tend to over consume.

[@jillianguilford5191]

I've taken to not bringing in junk mail and since there is a trash can by my mailbox kiosk, I don't bring in the envelope, circulars, things I already know I don't want/need as well as any info in a language I can't read and blank papers. I used to cut up the blank papers to take notes - I never use them, so I toss them too.

[@heartsandmindsathome]

I’m the same with the clear nightstand surface but the drawer is a nightmare! The kids teeth, y’all... WHY do we keep their teeth?!?! They add zero benefit to my life and the kids will not want them back when their grown. I know. My mom tried. 🤦🏻‍♀️😂

[@elaineforan4751]

There has to be a happy medium between minimalism and hoarding. Hoarding is a problem when it effects your social life, costs you too much and risks your health. Minimalism also effects your choices (we don't all want to wear all black t-shirt and jeans for every day), it can be costly if you are throwing stuff out and rebuying them the next year and I think you have to be careful that you don't allow clutter etc to effect your mental health (being neat and tidy is fine but NEEDING to deal with clutter before you continue with your day is a problem). Like all things, moderation is best.

[@ntmn8444]

Omg 😱 I’m a hoarder. I’ve been realizing that tho. I’ve been reading the Bible, and through it, I feel like Jesus was calling me to let go of material things. So I’m working on it.

[@karenrowles9788]

So true about the space. Our 1500 sq ft house was streamlined and organized with zero clutter. Then we moved to a house twice the size and now we’re essentially living in half the house with two bedrooms completely cluttered. Container Theory.

[@Diniecita]

Yes. I learned that from Dana of a slob comes clean.

[@carabenfield4240]

Yes! Dana K. White! Love her...

[@amysteele9778]

I feel like these days with rising prices people will hang onto much more than they ever did. It will be expensive to rebuy it.

[@susancook1448]

Also is it called hoarding if you do actually use the items eventually? There have been lots of times when I do use saved beautiful items.

[@lorenl9262]

Hello Rachel :)- I stumbled upon minimalism during the Pandemic when I was completely alone for 2 years and I have thankfully have been practicing minimalism before I even knew what this concept even was. I have lived in an empty apartment for over 2 years now and I welcomed this lifestyle. YOU would be surprised how stress free YOUR life will become.

[@virgierutledge3004]

We have been there done that. We are 72 and wanted to make a huge family space in our unfinished basement. We have 10 grands who live within an hour, so they come around a lot. I was a creative (hoarder) teacher. During this new construction we had to pitch or pack away everything. Older grands toted everything to our detached garage. Any season decor is a problem. I have sorted and given away many things. I realize I am a type A detailed hoarder. I watched about Swedish Death Cleaning. I am working on it. Love and peace to you for spreading good news to people.

[@queendubya2914]

Its so hard to get rid of stuff but I really want to…I lived most of my life dirt poor and I have such a hard time shaking the “I might need it someday” syndrome.

[@georgewagner7787]

Walmart is cheap. They're keeping the stuff for you until you really need it

[@bluebelle9572]

If you’re no longer dirt poor, that is a life changing thing. Same with things. You saved them because you didn’t have money to replace them. Now you do, so you can get rid of more things you don’t ‘need’ or are easily/cheaply replaced. I struggle with it too, always have someone saying, we don’t need to keep everything. Throw it out. Lol. Change is hard sometimes.

[@jannertfol]

That being said, throwing things away because you don't have an immediate use for them, then having to go out and replace them is ...wasteful. It's good to hit a happy medium. Try to resist the urge to buy stuff in the first place! Avoid going to places (like antique stores) where if you don't buy it right now it will be gone. If you do need (or want) something, give yourself a day or two before you actually buy it. You'll find that the impulse to buy a certain item may very well die overnight.

[@ArtemisSilverBow]

Whatever stage a person is in, the key is that they are unable to let things go.

[@LadyBeatrixMcCormick]

Time to declutter your vocabulary. The term, "hoarder", does not apply to every person who has clutter or struggles with disorganization. Hoarding Disorder is a diagnosable mental illness. Using the term loosely diminishes the struggles of those who actually have the disorder, and needlessly applies an untrue, inaccurate label to those who don't. People can have clutter without being a hoarder. Hoarding Disorder is defined by a person's inability to get rid of things, which may also include trash. People with Hoarding Disorder may also have a compulsion to acquire more things, much like an addiction. The hoarding scale is used by clinicians to tailor therapy to where a person is on the spectrum of Hoarding Disorder. Using the hoarding scale to self diagnose is misleading. The potential for unnecessary guilt, self loathing, and depression in typical people comparing themselves to the hoarding scale is very high because of the stigma attached to HD via the hoarding tv shows. Anyone who is not actively a minimalist could easily fall into category 1 on that scale. It's a misuse of clinical tools for a specific purpose.

[@hellradiolives]

I tend to agree. There are books after books and videos by multiple clutter busting, anti-hoarder gurus that make tons of money because at heart people want to fix things and will spend to do it. But hoarding is a completely different thing.

[@lchapter383]

The minimal mom did a video on Justin Case. We need to constantly keep him moving

[@robinchopra139]

i ended up hording when we moved from a two story house to a one story. It all got piled in the garage. You couldnt even walk across my garage. Twenty yrs later it was still there. We had to go thru it THREE times before i could unload it. And i still need to go thru for a fourth time. My point is once i got rid of soooo much stuff, in the two yrs since i have only said "i wish i hadnt gotten rid of that" TWO TIMES!!! so easy to replace.

[@jannertfol]

You don't sound like a hoarder ...just somebody who downsized before they were ready to. And got overwhelmed. But you did get rid of stuff, and feel glad that you did. That's not the mindset of a hoarder.

[@brg2743]

The idea of helping kids with financing is great! So needed!

[@matthewgoode9104]

Rachel Cruze AND The Minimalists! The multiverse crossover we do actually all need. Fantastic stuff.

[@vickieclark5931]

I've always loved the minimalists. I've always been good at not having much stuff, but I've learned a lot from them and have gotten rid of even more things. I'm with Josh, I love my coffee. LOL When you don't have a bunch of debt with a bunch of things around the house that don't mean much, then you can spend money on things that you really love such as coffee or going on vacation. Why work 50+ hours just to give it all to Visa. That is crazy and I used to do that. I don't do that anymore so I can actually save and buy things that matter now.

[@fairlind]

Even just getting rid of one thing a day can declutter your life over time. I’ve also become a container lady; having things in containers gives me oversight, so that I don’t purchase the same thing I already have.

[@jamilgotcher365]

That's a good idea. I'll start by getting rid of something tomorrow.

[@fairlind]

@@jamilgotcher365 Lol, tomorrow never comes.

[@jillianguilford5191]

When I view my apartment and each room as it's own container - therefore the limit of the space I can use for things, I can then keep the things that actually add to my life.

[@TH-eb5ro]

I know many who have 'collections' that became a cluttered mess. Things are only worth the joy they bring or what you can sell them for. Most of it ends up at Goodwill. Normalizing this will give people the tools to let go of things that don't serve them. I used to work as an organizer and quickly realized I needed to learn about the psychology of why people do this. Great discussion. We can all do our part by not giving people things they don't want and not guilting them to keep things. Thankfully I have always preferred less stuff, and less space. I've also moved many times, internationally a handful of times and you realize you don't need stuff. Great exercise, challenge.

[@jannertfol]

"We can all do our part by not giving people things they don't want and not guilting them to keep things. " I like that a lot! Most of the gifts I buy for people nowadays are perishable ...things like a bouquet of flowers, something nice to eat, take them out to dinner, etc. Not 'stuff.'

[@heatherwieler726]

It's easier to keep your life simple then try and simplify your life later. I wish I had known that 40 years ago.

[@WCBergable]

Not being clean isn't hoarding its not clean

[@A222Z]

I agree w/ another comment, that some people are just messy, but Not hoarders. .. My place gets quite messy at times, & i am a minimalist. Sometimes I'm busy w/a project, kids, or just tired from the day & will clean up in the morning when I'm recharged & am more productive. I like things perfectly organized, but I don't feel like I have to keep it this way 24/7. I value 'chill time'. .. I agree w/someone's comment, that hoarding is a 'mental disorder'. Hoarders usually can't get rid of obvious trash like pet & bug contaminated things or rotten stuff. And their are levels to that.

[@arizonadesert5861]

Please more episodes of the minimalist with them!!! Joshua and Ryan Nicodemus!! are the best!!! What a great team! Thank you Rachel!! You are the best too!!❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@VerySelena]

They’re fabulous! It’s strange to see Ryan without his sandals 🩴😃

[@sandyruther2936]

They have their own channel and podcasts.

[@irisgerken280]

They skipped stage 3.

[@SD-ip2wb]

No they are not. Ryan was really rude and mean to me.

[@jenpisano5954]

THATS SO AWESOME that y’all are teaching these kids this! I WISH teaching ALL kids responsibility with money, learning how to budget, teaching them how to NOT get into debt - was a “COMMON CORE” class. THIS would be SO HELPFUL!

[@bluebelle9572]

Yes. Like an updated take on home economics, call it life economics.

[@larsonfamilyhouse]

They do. It’s taught in mathematics.

[@jenpisano5954]

@@larsonfamilyhouse - in all due respect- mathematics doesn’t teach kids how to handle money, or the importance of a budget, or how not to get into debt, or how saving money is important. It can teach them how to balance their checkbooks- which most people do not do anymore- and if they’re not taught- they will never do it.

[@thefarmista]

​@@larsonfamilyhouseno, it isn't, not even close.

[@tomjohnston3601]

A little clutter means you're a hoarder? Sorry, I disagree. Under that definition, almost everyone I've ever met is a hoarder. That's just silly. I guess they want to sell books to a larger audience.

[@kathalinehansen7078]

THE MINIMALISTS ARE NOT the right ones to be interviewed about hoarding. Their mindset is toward "they have too many things" WITHOUT the real mental health aspects involved in hoarding disorder. You should have interviewed Melanie from A Hoarder's Heart, who IS a recovering Hoarder. Or a professional who focuses on helping those who deal with the mental disorder of Hoardering. There are aspects of PTSD and deficits in brain organization skills involved that prevent the recognition of and process of discarding even trash.

[@emmelia-6068]

Absolutely agree. This is NOT at all a correct or helpful clinical "definition" or discussion of hoarding disorder. Disappointed in this "jump on the bandwagon" video. I expect better from Rachel. Research and basic fact-checking could have made this helpful for the many viewers of these three.

[@kaelaleedaley]

Yes, God Bless her - she is doing so well x

[@grandlaphi]

This comment is 100 % correct . There is overlay but kathalines 2nd paragraph is the science of disorder . I enjoyed the show but will check out hoarders heart and anything else Kathleen recommends.

[@jamilgotcher365]

Thanks for telling us about those channels.

[@lorettauppercue6400]

I get the fact that a garage is included, but when you don't an attic or basement, and can't have a shed in your backyard due to HOA, yes you FL, where do you put your Christmas, holiday decorations, lawn mower, landscaping tools,etc??

[@fmmaj9noname332]

Many people end up renting storage space for holiday decorations and extra stuff.

[@amymasters6274]

Such a great message! I also wish that someone would of set me down at 17 yrs old and taught me about finances.

[@stephaniem895]

Hoarding is a mental illness that more times than not requires intensive therapy. No amount of logic or reasoning I’ve done with a tru hoarder has helped them let things go. I’ve seen some get legit panic attacks when pressed to let things go. This interview is great for those that have over consumed and needs some Motivation and guidance to let things go.

[@pinkroses135]

I have goals to be a light prepper hoarder with some batteries, food, severe weather/power outage type of stuff 😂

[@rosemarywilliams9969]

Half car is for a motorcycle. When I try to help someone, once we've gone through all their stuff if they love all their things and they usually say yes to everything, then I go "whatever cost the most start with that and find the space for it and then work from there" and usually we get to the car in the garage and I tell them you're going to park a $50,000 car outside where it could be accidentally hit but you're going to leave boxes of tupperware's and Plastics decor and laundry bins in your garage? which one will cost more to replace? and usually a light bulb will come over their head and they're like OH... okay. 😂

[@katrinkarlsdottir]

Hi, my name is Katrin and I'm a stage 1 hoarder. I'm the child of a stage 4 hoarder, so I think I'm better.

[@Surferess]

Sometimes, when I want to get rid of things, I literally feel guilty about filling up the landfill. However, I am not organized enough to separate everything and give it all to different organizations. So I literally don't do anything bc it is unpleasant and somewhat painful to be faced with the reality that my disfunction seems impossible to actually deal with at all.

[@beejensen]

Same! I’m still waiting to get rid of a couch in our garage. I need to post on offer up and keep trying as I can’t bear to fill the landfill. My poor husband has many many books he cannot part with. I also love my collection of books and cds. I lost love collecting art supplies. I’m hoping to find a way to not keep consuming without meaning. I need to actually use the supplies and not keep draining my bank account.

[@sarahzawodny2695]

My husband is a stage 2 hoarder and wants no part of even trying to let go. Definitely a just in case and doesn’t want to add to a landfill. I never have an issue. 3 car garage and I can’t get my car in plus “his side” of the basement. So frustrating.

[@jannertfol]

Yes, I agree, environmental awareness can be a problem. But tell yourself it's only this once, and you won't buy these kinds of things any more. Ever. Then don't. You can't put the toothpaste back in the tube, but you CAN stop squeezing the tube!

[@kristawaller1152]

After hearing the credit card part I had to share. My brother, for over 40 years had NEVER had a credit card. He lived by "if I can't pay for it I don't need it". Then, when he tried to buy his house, he could not get a mortgage due to never having "credit" ugh

[@janelleg597]

you can get a house without a credit history. it's called a manual underwrite.

[@Diniecita]

They try to force you to play in their system. But, you can still get a house. You just have to have a MUCH larger down payment.

[@bluebelle9572]

I bought a house 20 yrs ago. Never had a cc in my life.

[@paulkoester9242]

I don't have a single credit card age 67. If you can.t buy it. You do without. Until you can buy it. All I want in life is so.eone to t all to. Conversation is much more important than any amount of money unless of course. If you need food and shelter .

[@georgesotiroff5080]

I have a friend who tries to put as many of his purchases as possible on his credit card. Then he uses his accumulated points to pay for vacation airline tickets.

[@gabrielstroup]

I live with an elderly, immigrant grandma who lived through the Vietnam war before moving to the states, and she has a bad habit of keeping tools, chemicals, household stuff, etc. long past their expiration point, because she still has the mindset that as long as they’re still functional, they’re worth keeping. But I have to keep reminding her that we only have so much space in the house, and we can’t be sacrificing that space for items that we can easily replace

[@lifeseries7944]

My husband is level 3/4 hoarder. Nobody can walk in his closet. You have to climb. Thanks God we have separated closets. His garage is full of junk, piling up to the ceiling. It’s hard enough to deal with him. Then, you have 2 out of 3 sons follow their dad’s footstep, keeping everything. They see nothing wrong but blame me for wanting it perfect. I don’t want perfect, just organized so he doesn’t have to buy stuff that we already own but is stuck inside the garage that we can’t access to without removing the top piles.

[@faithrada]

That is often the tactic of a hoarder... to try and make others believe that they are the problem... rather than the hoarder's issue. It does confuse me when I see the non-hoarding partner actually tolerating the hoarder's sickness... as though it will magically correct itself. The fact is .. it IS an illness and NEEDS to be addressed.. one way or another asap. To ignore it is just adding one tragedy to another. Tolerating a hoarder is a disservice to all parties involved. Often what is needed is a dose of tough love because the hoarder is typically incapable of even recognizing the problem, let alone correcting it.

[@shangobunni5]

Please put the descriptions of the different levels of hoarding on the screen for longer than a nano-second so we have time to read them.

[@BL-rb7jm]

Don't feel obligated just because somebody gives you something even if they are a relative. That's a form of control. And you gotta teach them that they can't control you anymore. You gotta feel that you have this freedom to say. No, so don't allow people to control, you say no, it gives you strength and it helps you to get rid of your fear of others. Over the years, I was always afraid to say no to somebody who gave me something. I didn't need I feel guilty if I didn't take it. But now I say to them. Thank you but I don't think I will need it. Thank you for being kind and thoughtful. You have to stand up for yourself don't be afraid

[@lilarose9348]

I’ve been diagnosed with OCD. I don’t buy a lot but I have binders of printed articles, general info and quotes etc. Plus an insane amount of reminders and notes (both in my phone and on paper). It’s like a security blanket of information. I have 3 external hard drives of photos backed up and fire/waterproof safes for them. It really takes over my life and interferes with me being able to be present with my family. The ability to get info at my fingertips has enhanced it. When I was a lot younger it was magazines and clipping out the articles I wanted to save and putting them in binders and folders. There’s a problem and possibly a diagnosis when you feel controlled by it and frantic.

[@sikwithin]

This is an amazing episode. I started minimalism after watching the minimalist and Matt D'Avalla on KZbin. I'm starting with old clothes I've converted into sleepwear. Watching Ramsey which has taught me about being intentional with money and also learning about materialism has helped me make my life much more efficient. Not just financially, but mentally.

[@AskAngelaBrown]

Well, this was an enjoyable trifecta of goodness. Thanks for sharing all these great ideas. 👏👏👏

[@chris...9497]

Call it a "Utility Drawer", not a "Junk Drawer". There's power in a name. If it's a UTILITY Drawer, then you start treating the items in it as having a purpose and you fill it intentionally. If it's a Junk Drawer, you fill it with junk, so it will definitely become chaotic and disorganized.

[@carolannstevens5814]

Love the minimalist! They help and I listened to them and got rid of 98% of things and I am super happy I did! Freedom!

[@RubiTootie]

I finally have understand the paralélales universe of the poverty spirit/mindset and hoarding. Thank you. I need to make room for less to give more away for when God calls me to do so. I want to be known for my generous giving. Thank you!!!

[@kathyshouffler2632]

Just throw it out. Hoarders always worry about donating things somewhere.

[@susan5661]

Thanks for having the Minimalists on your show Rachel! It’s great to see minimalism being mainstreamed. It is so life changing

[@TingTingalingy]

I've been listening to this episode while making some lunch. I'm a regular listener of The Minimalists and your interview with them was the best I've heard with them. Well done, keep it up!

[@Madi-su5pz]

moving this weekend and this video was perfect to watch before packing!!!

[@hollyhopalong7405]

I started backpacking, everything you need you carry for about 5 days. Really makes you look at life differently. If you ca, try it!

[@fabmontreal25]

These 3 have changed our families projections in ways I will be forever grateful

[@lydiah7184]

I have done the Minimalism Game, I completed the entire thing June 2021! It was before I had my baby & I knew I wanted to declutter before baby came. I definitely need to do it again 🤣

[@lifeseries7944]

That was your nesting instinct.

[@lydiah7184]

@@lifeseries7944 definitely

[@arawilson]

Plastic toys reproduce overnight.

[@darla2142]

Great conversation. ❤️ I am very streamlined and minimal and tidy, but my chihuahua has so many sweaters, accessories, balls, and baskets of toys 🧸 beds in every room, her own heating bags. How do I get her on board? 🐕

[@josiee4657]

My mom, my sister and sister in law and I did the 30 day challenge-twice! And even though I live a pretty minimal life it was easy to find things to let go!

[@paulkoester9242]

What is the 30 day challenge? I d like to know? So I could try. Thanks.

[@josiee4657]

@@paulkoester9242 you get rid of an item for every day of the week. So day 1 is one item, day 12 is twelve items etc.

[@carabenfield4240]

I think I will start tomorrow morning.

[@vikingprincess634]

First sign that someone is approaching full blown hoarder status: 1. LOTS of bins (stacks and stacks of bins, often 3-4 bins high.) 2. Pathways through all the “stuff” to get through a room. 3. Can’t see inside through the windows (blinds drawn, curtains closed at all times). 4. Interior doors that are always closed, rooms nobody has ever or will ever see because that’s where you hide your hoard.

[@Wildflower313]

Hoarding is a mental health disorder not just people who have too much stuff. It is a complex issue often made worse by grief and trauma that is not dealt with. Don’t normalize hoarding. Living with a hoarder causes extreme distress and trauma to family members and adult children of hoarders often have lasting emotional issues that they carry with them.

[@coston1986]

I personally donate and look at it as someone else can use that. So it’s not getting rid of something that’s still usable.

[@samanthajones1044]

Loved this! Two of my favourite channels combined! 🤩 please do more together. I’ve been implementing things from both your channels for a few years now ❤️💫👏🏻

[@candescentmoon2181]

I bought a grill from a neighbor and a new swamp cooler. The 2nd summer I hadn’t used either, I sold them.

[@bgbell3049]

It’s me. Can’t let go of excess stuff. Stage 1. Moving to stage 2. Gotta stop. Now.

[@emmarascol2556]

Great episode!! Need more people to hear this message. Excellent topic!

[@KanaTron]

lol, I have about 20 coffee mugs. I collect mugs from every vacation.

[@offairhead]

Not being able to let go of things does not define hoarding. I was a level 5 hoarder and I give stuff away constantly. I can not THROW things away, that is wasteful, but i GIVE things away constantly, because it is generous and loving. A garage full of things does not make a hoarder, either. Tools are often needed but not always. You can’t just get rid of a table saw or a drill press when you aren’t using it and rebuy one when you need it again. I am a level hoarder due to childhood trauma. Hoarding is the symptom, not the problem. If you get to the root of the problem you can heal the hoarding.

[@jenniferspisak]

The way you can ALWAYS tell someone is a hoarder, is that they take offense to that word and insist they are “collectors”.

[@chaselesser3191]

Great advice I’m going to tell that to someone with depression “ Just let it go and be happier” I joke, b/c they downplay it. Excessive stuff is the symptom and not the real issue.

[@moonshynegirl172]

I'm a stage three bordering on four on this scale. My boyfriend is a stage four. His mess drives me crazy! I compulsively buy things that are supposed to help organize my stuff and then never get around to it. Whenever I watch Hoarders I have to clean something. I know my life would be better with less. I might actually get to do some of those things I love to do.

[@fontaineorganizing]

The scale they use is the “Clutter-Hoarding Scale” (see The Institute for Challenging Disorganization) and level 1 and 2 are not considered hoarding. The use of the term “hoarder” is offensive and outdated. There are many expert professional organizers who would be far more knowledgeable and certainly kinder that this. It’s a shame you chose non-hoarding experts to discuss this important topic.

[@freedomspromise8519]

I have a problem getting rid of books. Yes, I do read them. Most are geared toward American History, my favorite subject. I have donated books. At first I felt heartbroken. Then I discovered Swedish Death Cleaning. What is so important to me I want my children to have to deal with it? Not much. That's a huge burden on them.

[@faithrada]

Exactly. My motivation to De stuff is to consider the burden that any of my STUFF would put onto others... that's generally enough to get me TOSSING. I don't want my kids spitting on my grave. LOL 😆

[@annabell3385]

Definitely keep your books.

[@classyladymay1]

I really think when a person is a horder when you put emotions in just about all your stuff and they get upset just thinking of getting rid of any of it. Just like one open spot on the floor or wall. They have to fill it with stuff!! It can get worse.

[@katewade9992]

Actually OCD is NOT a symptom of hoarding. ADD is. It's been updated.

[@transformingourlives8922]

That’s not what they said. Hoarding is on the OCD spectrum. They have said that many times on hoarders itself.

[@mai3cle]

This is true. People need to understand that often hoarding (at a level that causes disruption to your daily life) is more frequently than not related to psychological issues rather than simply down to laziness or poor character. This is why shaming or anger by outsiders rarely has an effect unless the underlying issues are addressed. I was recently diagnosed with ADHD at 50 and it has helped me to understand my problems with hoarding and why I, on an almost physical level, have trouble with throwing things out. A lot of what I “collect” is related to remembering things since I have a lot of trouble with memory and forgetting things.

[@jennys999]

Is being messy the same as hoarding though? I have random junk in my cellar and cluttering my home, but honestly if someone offered to take it away I'd say yes! I sell some of it on fb marketplace, but that takes effort... so it accumulates. Not 'just in case', but for 'to get rid of later'.

[@kaylawaters2691]

In my case, I don't even care about selling any of it. As long as someone would take it off my hands which would get it out of my way and declutter my house, that would be great.

[@larsonfamilyhouse]

You should look for somewhere that sells things on consignment

[@jannertfol]

"If somebody offered to take it away, I'd say yes!" Nope, you're not a hoarder.

[@audreyandrea460]

I think it only costs $400 to get junk removal guys to to come and clean it out. Worth it, imo.

[@leeboriack8054]

The explanations of the stages of clutter surprised me about myself. Starting a purging spree.

[@rosesnviolets1638]

Sorry, but I could never be a minimalist. Much of my hobbies and activities involve having an array of tools and supplies. Good for them, though.

[@kayj5081]

Exactly! If you live in town and buy everything when you want it, it would work great. I live in the country, I sew, knit, leathercraft, draw and do diy stuff. I do try to keep things to a minimum and not stack up unfinished projects while starting on new ones.

[@deboraballes9044]

I couldn't either, too many interests, too much to do. But, I have reached a place though were at 62 I realize there are some things that I can let go ... Like music books because I don't think I will go back to playing the piano ( never got very far, considered it a chore) or certain hobbies that seemed cool cause someone close to me loved it but I tried it and it didn't click for me ( counted cross stitch....hated the counting🤭) If I find something, I ask myself if I had a spare weekend would I like to use the extra time on that hobby or reading that book, if the answer is no then it is free to go...to bless someone else😎

[@laurabotts4064]

This was a fabulous video. I learned so much and I am going to start the 30 day game of decluttering starting tomorrow. it's not the first day of the month but that's okay - I now have the motivation to be on my way to living a better life. Thank you !

[@PS-bs8oe]

We wonder how Laura got on? Is ur life better with less stuff , more expériences, or are u still starting to get to the Why? Take car, all of us

[@DeborahCaldwell77]

Vases. Love them. So I’ll only pay a dollar for one, I pick wildflowers, fill one and give it/them away. It’s taken me 25 YEARS to clear the bottom drawers, the unreachable floors in the back of the closets and the unreachable attic spaces - there is always more than one

[@carabenfield4240]

I'm proud of you for what do!

[@maryssaann]

We use our cellar for garbage, donations and decoration/seasonal stuff. I have what I know I will keep organized but on my minimalist journey (and dragging my three boys and husband with me 😂), it’s been easy to use a catch all area so when I know I can close that chapter of decluttering, everything to sell/donate that we won’t keep will be in one place and all big items that are broken or beyond selling can sit in one area to take to the dump or rent a dumpster for an afternoon to pay one fee for that instead of multiple trips. But it’s definitely out of sight out of mind. We need to actively do something about it before our fourth son is born this winter. ETA: by “drag” I simply mean my husband is on board as long as when I reorganize I tell him where things are located and my boys are young enough to mold to that mindset. They have a more peaceful room and play area now and are much more content with their clothing, toys, etc.

[@topkat8268]

I have so much more stuff since the pandemic. Have a mask basket, sanitizers, Lysol, rubber gloves. I haven't really bought much new stuff.

[@jannertfol]

Well done.

[@angelwings1]

I’ve never had a junk drawer. Everything I have has a purpose & is organised neatly 😊

[@davidmilhouscarter8198]

7:13 I am very proud to say that I do not have a junk drawer.

[@anjanarao3527]

Many thanks to the duo for giving the powerful tool 🎯 called minimalism 🌏 and making our lives very pleasant 💚.

[@1991macie]

I say I'm going good financially, but I think my husband and I are stage 3/4 hoarder.

[@john-o1g9p]

proud to be a hoarder. i use it all, sooner or later. ''light amount of clutter in each room and no odor'' as a housecleaner for 35 years, that's the description of a house with people. not even close to real life!

[@katehenry2718]

"Access" is the magic word. 200 semis used to pass my kitchen window in a day. Less than 50 in 2022. Do I miss things being available? Stuff I want comes by mail, so no. There is an occasional "out of stock" at the grocery, but my cupboard is not bare. Costs a gallon of gas to get to town, cost to ship one item, so I wait for 4 stops per trip. Sure wish more things were made in USA.

[@jalisak]

Could you guys do a video on family and friends who feel the need to fill other’s houses or apartments? I have family that will bring either their junk or buy new things to bring to my place, a;ways saying "you’ll need this" or "you’ll find use for this". Discuss how to handle creating boundaries for situations like this and how to sneakily get rid of stuff too 🤣 I appreciate the gifts, please don’t get me wrong, but it creates more clutter or the clutter coffins.

[@plynn136]

Smile and say "no thank you". Repeat as needed.

[@jamilgotcher365]

I went for years without buying very many clothes because I was a caregiver for my Mom and it made my income go down. Now I own my own business and I have been buying so many clothes the last 2 years because of doing without for so long. I need to get rid of my old clothes but don't have time.

[@faithrada]

@@jamilgotcher365 I had a friend who always used " I have no time" as an excuse to avoid doing what she did not want to do. We All have 24 hours in our day... it's a about prioritizing and making the best choices on how to spend it. It takes some discipline on our part but it ends up being the best gift we can give ourselves... time to declutter...time to LIVE, one step at a time... just START.

[@carabenfield4240]

That doesn't work for my dad. It's so frustrating for me. He claims it's his "love language" to give gifts. He is so demanding about giving them, it's almost like he feels like if it's his idea, it becomes a requirement for us to then develop a need for the item. It's depressing.

[@susangrande8142]

@@carabenfield4240 he’s violating your space and your personal boundaries. It sounds like you can’t stand up to him and set boundaries for yourself. You could do a little passive resistance and give away (a charity shop?) the stuff he “makes you take.” ETA: ask him to give you non-material gifts, like dinners out with him, or trips, or meals he prepares, so you don’t have to deal with any more physical stuff.

[@TheLantzMann]

Yeah, cause there aren't food and other shortages right now and going to get worse. We have stocked up on survival stuff and videos like this have my wife wanting to get rid of everything and I mean everything. I'm ok with being organized and minimal life style but these people making my wife think we are horrible horders

[@jks90768]

Bicycle parts…. We can’t get anything right now. We don’t go looking for the parts, but we don’t get rid of them. We’ve been able to build a bike for my kid when he out grew his old one. Messaging is so confusing to me, because we’re such a throw away society.

[@gwendolynjulien4851]

I love my STUFF, I went without stuff waiting for someone I knew would visit, family, friends, strangers, anyone! One day I heard a car drive in my driveway. I ran to the window with excitement, my heart was happy to see who it was that finally came to visit ME! My heart fell out of my body as l soon found out they were strangers just turning around to go visit someone else. So I found that STUFF will never leave me. So I found out that stuff is my friend. My daughter says to me look at the money l waisted over the years, I could have taken a trip and had fun. I SAID WITH WHO? I took a weekend trip all alone no one knew me and didn't want to know me no matter how friendly I tried. So smart guys, I am happy with my STUFF, it never leaves me. So now what do you say to me? Maybe having a house that echos isn't for me !!!!! I have a dog named Echo, who loves me, so don't worry.

[@hammerradiology1470]

Rachel- I know exactly why you don't throw away your daughter's beads from your nightstand drawer...because as soon as you've done it, your angelic faced daughter shows up as if she had telepathic senses and asks- :"Mummy, remember I made you that bracelet (or necklace) - don't you want to wear it??"😅 And you have to come up with clever but not believable excuses...which makes you feel guilty and horrible.😅

[@Camie2030]

I keep all my test papers and notes from way back in 8th grade through college years. Am I considered as level 3 hoarder? Very well organized too. I am 34 now.

[@candicesummers5427]

Do you use and reference them regularly? That is the question you should be asking.

[@lynnebucher6537]

I ran across my college transcripts and some coursework, and grade 1-12 grade cards my mom had kept. realized I've never needed it. Torched it in the fireplace. Just kept the diplomas.

[@Camie2030]

@@candicesummers5427 not at all. I do read some essays. But I finally shred them after multiple moves a couple years back. I do admit i am a hoarder. I’ve been hoarding up new paperwork and news articles I read. I like to print them etc

[@starrysloth8018]

34 here too! and i would say that i was like you, but am now a reformed hoarder. i think we kept the notes because they are evidence of our hardwork blood sweat tears of something we really put in effort & achieved something (college degree), so it felt like if we discarded those items, we discarded our "glory days". or at least that was what caused me to keep them for so many years and being unable to let go. not sure how or why but i finally "woke up" n started decluttering 2years back and eventually was able to let go of these recently.

[@rebeccacole6910]

Mugs ☕️ my husband doesn’t even drink any hot drinks… every Christmas and birthday someone buys him a set with a mug in 🙄

[@marylhere]

I have one mug for my coffee….I have to otherwise they would be all over the house. I do also have a tea cup….because what are we? animals?

[@allisonc9645]

OH WOW! I love this! I have been long followers of the minimalists so HOW FUN to see them with you!