7 Years of Decluttering: "If I Was STARTING FROM ZERO, This is What I Would Do!!" | MINIMALISM

This summer, we're celebrating 7 years of decluttering, so I thought I would do a mini Q&A with some life lessons on how to declutter your home as a beginner - things that I WISH I had known when I first started! These are decluttering tips and life lessons from a REAL minimalist mom who extreme decluttered 95% of her stuff and knows what it's like to live through all of the ups and downs. Let's do this!
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ABOUT A TO ZEN LIFE
Along my journey to let go of 30 years of clutter, I accidentally became a minimalist and it was life-changing.
Before, I was an emotional hoarder with nothing but the clutter from lost loved ones - and $25,000 of debt - to my name. Now I have a beautiful home in Europe, a happy family, live debt-free, and - best of all - wake up to a life that I’m EXCITED to live every day.
My mission is to help you conquer your clutter and simplify YOUR way to a happier and better life. HERE'S OUR STORY: atozenlife.com/about-a-to-zen...
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NOTE: This description may contain affiliate links; these links allow you to find the items mentioned in this video at no additional cost to yourself. While this channel may earn a small amount when the viewer uses the links, the viewer is in NO WAY obligated to use these links.

[@AtoZenLife]

Please like + comment with YOUR best tips, lessons, or advice ► 📋 FREE 10-page declutter checklist here » atozenlife.com/free-declutter-checklist

[@lavenderm]

I can see the webpage and it describes what the checklist provides but where can I download it?

[@AtoZenLife]

@@lavenderm There should be a place to enter your email address, and instructions to download and print will be sent to you there 👍

[@jmsl_910]

scroll to the of the page & you'll see a box!

[@lavenderm]

​@@jmsl_910 Thank you!

[@lavenderm]

@@AtoZenLife Thank you!

[@gamerperson9545]

Instead of throwing away, my minimalism journey has been about stopping buying. I used up all the extras I had, saved money and decluttered naturally.

[@shawshanewcomb4061]

I feel like the more I declutter and cut the attachments to material objects, the more I learn about myself and draw my power back to myself. It’s almost like these things are holding a tiny part of us hostage!

[@AtoZenLife]

I 💯 agree!

[@aokiQ]

Very true! every time I get rid of something or sold something, I feel like I got a part of me back ❤

[@andeeanko7079]

Wow, so true!

[@karlabritfeld7104]

No, baby huge part. It is fear.

[@cjhoward409]

If I were living alone, I’d sell everything, buy a small rv and travel. My house, yard and all the daily cleaning is getting in my nerves !!!!

[@DominusRaina]

"External clutter is just your internal clutter on display".. love it, absolutely love it - thank you for that!

[@simply.clutterfree]

I've been decluttering steady since 2016 when I saw The Minimalists documentary. But I didn't see any progress until I stopped shopping and became a strict gatekeeper about what came into my home. Decluttering isn't a "one and done" job.

[@AtoZenLife]

So game-changing 👏👏👏

[@carlh-thehermitwithwi-fi679]

it is an ongoing process, for LIFE! ..YOUR LIFE!

[@douxhealth-beauty3196]

Is that the one with the 2 guys?

[@michelleprice5945]

Yes!!! I used to go to TJ Maxx because I was bored and bought bags of stuff I didn't even need.

[@Iinfiniteknowing]

I like what I've heard"don't bring it in to start with"instead of decluttering,stop buying.

[@Britney_Bang_Bang]

I don’t think you talk too much. I appreciate your channel!!

[@AtoZenLife]

Thank you, hahaha!

[@DP-dr6gi]

Isn’t it funny how we are all different. I follow 20 Minimalist/Organizing channels. When I came to your channel I had already gone through my all of my possessions 4 times! However, I was very stuck on some very private letters and memorabilia from my Mom and Dads life. I felt I was the Keeper of them. And even though they were tucked away and neatly organized in three boxes, they called to me. They had an energy that came with them that was very sad and draining for me. You are the only one of my Minimalists that spoke directly to me about these types of items. And their price I paid to hold on to them. I needed to see your emotions and your process and hear your words around this process specific to this type of decluttering. I am now completely free of those items! And, I have kept just a few things from each of my parents that mean something to me. And those things bring me only joy. I also continue to watch all my other channels because each brings me different perspectives. Thank you for helping me when I couldn’t help myself in this area. ❤

[@AtoZenLife]

Thank you so much for taking the time to write this all out for me - stories like yours are the reason I’m here! ❤️ You’re right, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

[@shawshanewcomb4061]

I agree, Marissa is so real about the emotional part of decluttering that so many others don’t talk about. It’s such a big part of the process for a lot of us too.

[@karlabritfeld7104]

Scan those letters and pictures onto your computer and throw out the originals.

[@MyFocusVaries]

I went through my letters and cards my husband and I have exchanged and pared them down, thinking about my child possibly reading them one day.

[@aflack1000]

My mother was the original minimalist. My dad just the opposite. My mom remarried after divorce from my dad and moved from St. Paul (MN) to Houston. She gave just about everything to my dad. After that she only bought the bare minimum for her new apartment with my stepdad. I, being a bit like my dad, couldn't understand it at all. Where were all the "pretty" things? Now every time I pitch crap out I imagine my mom (gone for almost 40 years) cheering me on. Thanks, Mom.

[@kat_thefruitbat]

The fact that you DON’T simply give ideas with zero context and contemplation, is one of the main reasons why I love you and your channel and watch all of your videos!! 🤗❤

[@marywhyte8484]

Yes, we're not looking for trendy/gimmicky ideas, but an actual lifestyle change. Keep doing what you are doing!

[@ardethellis8930]

I would add something that I've not seen on any decluttering channel, blog, or book. Take care of your inner child. Decluttering is serious adulting and its easy to come up against resistance. I tackled my kitchen beginning in March. It was very hard work and not fun. So I made bargains with my inner child along the lines of If you hang with me through this today, tomorrow we will do an art project or I'll make a dress for a doll in our collection. It worked wonders to get all my selves on the same page. The kitchen project took two and a half months because it evolved into a deep cleaning, minor repairs, and decluttering adventure. I'm so glad I did it this way. Now, even when the kitchen gets messy, it takes so much less time to put it back in order. And my inner child had a lot of fun.

[@christinae30]

I will try this, thanks!

[@lauramitchell6725]

(At 6:40) I always look around the thrift store after I donate because,hey,I’m right there. However,I always try to upgrade my possessions. For example,one time after donating,I went into my favorite Humane Society Thrift Shop and found a set of four,brand new,Williams Sonoma,polished stainless steel cooking utensils for $4.00! I bought them and immediately got rid of six plastic ones from my utensil crock. I’m so glad I went in!🙌🏻

[@ajvintage9579]

Great point!

[@patralink]

I could never live in a house empty of pretty things. Beauty is such a part of my life and adds quality to my days. Accessories are important and I think that some people declutter to the point of making their living spaces boring and ugly. Certainly I do not like junk piling up and keep all my spaces well organized including closets, cabinets, drawers, garage and storage room. I am continually letting go of things I haven't used in years or that don't appeal to me anymore. I'm just saying that sometimes this movement goes too far.

[@lauramitchell6725]

Too sparse and soulless.

[@deborahsimpson2732]

I agree with you. While I do like clear counters, I also like my walls to have something on them (her walls are bare) and I do like accessories for clothing, etc. To go mega stark is not necessarily a good idea. Isn't stark the environment of jail or mental hospital? Just wonderin?

[@lauramitchell6725]

@@deborahsimpson2732 Yes,there’s a reason why your Realtor will advise you to remove all of your photos and personal items from your home when staging to sell. Because then it will look like no one lives there,more of the idea of a model home.😖

[@perrycoffey5410]

​@@deborahsimpson2732what if the picture falls or something

[@claremiller9979]

This is where really understanding Marie Kondo's philosophy makes such a difference. Kondo never said to get rid of all your stuff. She said to let go of that which doesn't spark joy. If it sparks joy, or if it's useful and necessary, you keep it - including if that makes your house more full than someone else's! I too could never be comfortable in a house this empty, that's a stylistic personal choice though - if anyone tells you your house has to look like that definitely don't listen to them!

[@dollieschuster9106]

I really don't feel like you talk too much. You explain things very well, and I appreciate that. Thank you for reaching out and helping so many people like me.

[@idid138]

same. Thank you Marissa

[@JazzyBabe56]

wow - if that person doesn't like the chatter on here then why watch these vids? this is what your channel is about and thats what we're here for! this was inspirational for me...thanx!

[@MyFocusVaries]

Exactly! The talk is the whole point of this channel, and where the good info is!

[@user-hv3op2vy4o]

❤well said ! Stop spreading negativity. Get off our channel we love her !!!!!!!

[@pinkroses135]

The chattering is what people look for to listen to while they're cleaning. The body doubling thing.

[@olivemaycards]

It’s so weird that people need to leave a comment to tell you why your channel isn’t right for them. Scroll on by, people! I enjoyed seeing some footage of your life in previous spaces and stages.

[@talkwithecm]

OMG - 'the internal work is just as important as the external work' - YES! YES! YES! I'm only 1 year into my decluttering journey, and for me the internal work is even MORE important than the external work. While I've never been a big shopper, I certainly have attached too much meaning and significance to the things that I own and the stories that I attach to them. How I got it, where I used it, what someone said about that item. Every single dress, every hair clip, every book, my home was like a living museum! Now I'm learning how to access those stories WITHOUT the objects, as well as focus more on the present - the new memories and experiences that we are creating today.

[@thisminimallife]

I don’t have anything to declutter anymore. I now have just the right amount of things. I need to declutter my mental health

[@AtoZenLife]

That’s a very important category 👏

[@suzismith9681]

I just do one cupboard at a time , now . I originally started with putting the same thing together. Then I sorted the best of the best. We've been married 50 years , same home for 32, theres alot! I removed all the left behind children's unwanted things. What a relief! My craft stuff took a whole week.! Now I'm seriously into downsizing. Its just time for much to go to another home. 😊

[@lesleyoneill420]

Please never stop talking too much. For those viewers that want the quick list and that’s their process then KZbin, Pinterest and just plain Google are full of that. I literally sit down and watch your videos, pausing every feed minutes taking too class life notes. You are the first person I have found that speaks my language since my hoarder self lost both parents and immigrated abroad. I got myself to a very healthy point regarding my clutter over the last 12 years. Now with your inspiration I’m getting ready to tackle that very painful emotional clutter. Thank you ❤

[@BohoStitcher]

Thank you! My first thought was: So find a blog! What are you doing on KZbin? 🤣🤣🤣

[@juleslincredule]

Key Points: 🔑 - Start small - don't try to declutter everything at once 🏃‍♀️ - You're not defined by your stuff - let go of attachments 💭 - Focus on internal work too - reflect on why clutter built up 🧘‍♀️ - Put spending on hold - don't bring in new stuff while decluttering 🛑 - Don't wait for perfect time - make time amidst life's busyness ⏱️ - Ask the right questions - use checklists to guide decisions ❓ - Change categories if stuck - switch focus if you hit a rut 🚧 - Set intentions - define how spaces should feel and function 💡 - Keep what sparks joy - not just for aesthetics 🌈 - Declutter repeatedly - make it an ongoing habit 🗓️ - Talk to others - have conversations that inspire change 🗣️ - Start with visible clutter - clears space and boosts morale 🏆 - Schedule decluttering time - dedicate time for it routinely 📅 - Involve family - teach kids decluttering habits 👪 - Be compassionate - appreciate how far you've come 🤗 - Discard first - then organize what remains 🗑️➡️📦 - Celebrate small wins - mark progress to stay motivated ✅ - Stop acquiring clutter - curb shopaholic tendencies 🛒❌ - Give away items - donate to charity or gift loved ones 🎁 - Set limits on categories - prevent clutter from returning 🚫 - Maintain open spaces - visually calming and functional 🏝️ - Display thoughtfully - showcase your style mindfully 🖼️ - Streamline paperwork - reduce files and billing clutter 🗃️ - Review yearly - clear seasonal or unused items 📆 - Let go of perfection - progress over perfect order ✨ - Schedule decluttering time - dedicate time for it routinely 📅

[@sheenavaughan2717]

Thanks for this really helpful list - I’m going to print it and use it as my reference for supporting my declutter decision making process to avoid becoming overwhelmed which has happened before when I’ve attempted everything at once along with decorating the whole house - unfortunately an aspect of BPD 🤦‍♀️🙄🤞🏻

[@kathybeal4408]

Great list. Thank you.

[@nickorange4881]

thank you for this.

[@marthavanderpool6829]

Very helpful. Screenshotting your list for reference.

[@rls4072]

🎉Merci Beaucoup🎉

[@chrisr.1803]

The internal work is maybe the most important! I love your channel! ❤

[@AtoZenLife]

Thanks so much 🙏

[@kellyrozenel7863]

I’m just starting this journey (well I’m about a year in) ADMITTEDLY UNSUCCESSFUL…but I am trying. I had a stage of depression that lasted 3 years. I just let clutter soothe me. Shopping for things I didn’t need or even really want. Not being able to let go of unsentimental “sentimental” things….but the past month or so I’ve been really digging in. I have loaded up one of my husbands work vans 2x so far with donations. I find it hard to keep up with my daily housework and then Declutter and reorganize. I am hoping this video will help me get through the jump of stalemate I am feeling.

[@kellyrozenel7863]

Wow “external clutter is just internal clutter on display” really hits home for me. I truly appreciate this acknowledgment and take the shame I feel away just a little bit.

[@StephanieSaintRemy]

Anyone who says you talk too much can just go elsewhere. The emotional talk is why your channel is my favourite. It’s like the minimalism version of when you’re having a bad day and your bestie pops in for a coffee and a catch up! 😅❤

[@Barbara-pe2jf]

I watched multiple de cluttering videos and ran across yours. Thank you for talking about identity. I grew up with an abusive father and a passive-aggressive mother. If my father didn’t like a particular behavior, he would tear up my things in my room reminding me he paid for it and it was his house. As an adult, I do associate “my” things with my identity. Intellectually, I get it. But when you discussed the underlying emotions attached to things, I cried. Then, compound that with parents who literally grew up dirt poor in the Depression, I was taught never to throw anything away. Today, I’m going to tackle a utensil drawer with broken handles. I have five graters. I don’t need five! Again, thank you for emphasizing the emotional side of why our homes become cluttered in the first place. Thank you.

[@NNJ20248]

You always mention that neighbor and I just want to add that always be genuine with people, who knows you would change someone's life without knowing. Best wishes for your neighbor as well, who changed your life.

[@francescooper3578]

To me downsizing is a very slow process as it is hard to make that decision. 2015 we moved into a home a third of the size we had. Our garage only had a walkway in the middle. When retirement came up we started to downsize again as I knew we want an even smaller house. I make myself have a couple of garage sales a year to help this process. It wasn’t til a couple years ago I came across minimalist on KZbin. It has helped encourage me to keep going. Now that I am a widow I realise one day that I will most likely will only be living in a few rooms so downsizing continues. The bright side is that my children will not have all that work to do when I pass on. It’s amazingly that things you keep, that children nowadays do not want.

[@irenelandmark1836]

Please don't change the way you express yourself, because of some comments you receive...i just find everything you say and do so useful and meaningful! So thank you and greatings from Argentina!

[@deericcio3379]

I know about the thrift stores! I used to bring a couple bags a week for my first few years or more of my minimalist journey , I’d then go in and buy a few things! I will still go in but usually don’t get anything , or just a book , or if I am lucky some sheet music, and I use the thrift like a rental , I bring the book back when I am done reading it , so worth the few dollars , instead of getting from a book store

[@pamandseth]

Marissa, the videos where you said "it took me five years" gave me permission to start on the hard stuff. I first did Marie Kondo in 2014, and it works very well for clothes. There was no way I was ready to give up books or tackle the papers, so I stalled out. Since the beginning of May, two months ago, I have made great progress on papers and other closet-stashed items. My older son (I also have two sons) graduated high school, and my mom and I went through his baby things so I could decide what few items are most precious to me to keep now. Mom complimented me on my willingness to declutter! It's a long haul. I'm buoyed again this weekend by an older friend who posted on socials how exhausting it is that she is packing, cleaning, and decluttering her entire house to move to a condo. If I'm this tired at my current age, imagine getting started in 15-20 years or whenever we are ready to move. There is *so much* to do. This is going to take a long time, but thanks to encouragement like yours, I'm keeping at it.

[@AtoZenLife]

You’re doing awesome, so much mental and physical progress! 🙌

[@nickorange4881]

and the moving from a big space to a smaller space is why in doing it now. my parents had to do that too. theres still a bunch of stuff i suspect packed away not really dealt with. i was going through some stuff decluttering i just found a recipet from 2018 -_- i just try to remind myself im doing this for the long term. not for just the short term. ive had a table next to me cluttered for weeks and ive been struggling with it.

[@sandhyatiwari7]

I decluttered around 465 items this year. I was on my decluttering journey since 2018 but bounced back again in shopping unnecessary clothings and stuffs. I was exhausted and not on my best behavior. I then sat and did thorough examination how the materials are overshadowing my personality, my mood and my overall health. Then, i made up my mind that there's no going back this time and decluttered around 465 items since January 2023. Its been almost a year i haven't purchased a single piece of clothing or anything as such. I am an avid reader so i couldn't declutter the books. However i decluttered the books that were not my thing. Its been a year i have not purchased a single book. I wanted to read everything that's already with me before buying the new ones. I'm downsizing everyday and I set out timer for 15 -20 minutes a week to go through my belongings over and over again if I need to get rid of sth. I had over two dozens of hand carrys, slings, backpacks but i got rid of them all and now i only have three of them in various style. I have stopped buying too much clothes for my son as well as kids outgrow their clothes so fast. Decluttering journey has been the best decision and so far the main ingredient for my prosperous mental health.

[@TheRozylass]

About #10--I find that decluttering is like peeling an onion, there's always another layer. Removing each layer reveals the next, and having time between helps with seeing and then letting go of more. Great lessons here!

[@shawshanewcomb4061]

I agree! It gets easier every time too I think. However I think my onion has regrown some layers lately… 😂

[@megansfo]

That's exactly how I think of it, layers upon layers!

[@bonnieinthespirit6373]

I’m watching this today. It’s been 3 years. Of Declutter. .. I’m liking empty space! More n more. 😂

[@AtoZenLife]

It took me 3 years to get the bulk of it done, too. Enjoy 😊

[@victoriatwiz5624]

Ive been doing the marathon version of decluttering for a few years now and i just now feel like im starting to make true progress. Ive learned to turn my emotions of (mostly) to my belongings and realize the memories are in me not my things

[@victor9501]

I agree about it taking years to see any progress! Several years ago, I got rid of no less than about 8 black bin liners of clothes to the charity shop. I also remember getting rid of a massive amount of old supermarket plastic bags, some of which were so old, they had started to rot. But despite all this work, and getting rid of seemingly hundreds of items, this didn't seem to make much of an impact. You have to go through several rounds of decluttering before you even start to see some results.

[@karlabritfeld7104]

Take a picture of the stuff and give it away.

[@betterlivingonabudget]

There is a big difference between a cluttered home and owning too much stuff. When we come in the house with stuff - whether it's groceries, shopping hauls, a cool rock found on a walk, etc. - then just set it down and proceed to look at it for days, that is what creates clutter. We need to learn the habit of putting stuff away immediately. That is the #1 best way to avoid clutter build-up.

[@donnacolwell3988]

The idea of a buy nothing period is very welcoming. I was out shopping yesterday and intended to buy some new clothes. I guess it was good luck that nothing I tried on suited me. I don't need any more clothes. I have more than enough items to get me though the whole work week without needing to wear anything twice. I was shopping for entertainment and to distract myself from some unpleasant things I didn't want to think about. Even though I don't buy expensive clothes or home goods, it still all adds up: too much money spent and too much stuff accumulated. The truth is that I have more than enough of everything I need. So, instead of buying something, I made a donation to the local Humane Society. I think that was a much better use of my money than buying stuff I don't need.

[@stellamc]

So many great tips here. I particularly liked the comparison to test taking strategy. If you get stuck move on to the easier questions - not only are you saving time but building confidence! Had a friend who would panic on tests when she suddenly didn't remember how to solve something, she would fall apart and be unable to complete the test. Sometimes if you skip a hard question and find something easier when you come back to the harder question you have found your groove! Building confidence in decluttering works the same way. 😊

[@AtoZenLife]

Yes! I had friends in college, who were the exact same way, and I would always try to coach them on this. 🙌

[@tinalee6026]

“External clutter is your internal clutter on display.”

[@elizabethfox3769]

I love how Marissa didn't blur out that negative commenter's name & photo who just "wants cool suggestions". Not letting her hide behind anonymity and calling her sh*t out, LOL! 🙌🔥🙌

[@amychen2504]

Yes on the books 🎉 I got a PhD in English so it was completely my identity and the hardest thing to declutter

[@AtoZenLife]

Gasp! I was an English major before I switch to speech language pathology. 🥹 I feel you!

[@sandhyatiwari7]

Unusual question but I have completed my masters and I'm 31 almost, is it possible to start my education in English major at this age?

[@amychen2504]

@@sandhyatiwari7 Not sure what country you are in, your goals, or what support you have. It's always possible to change your life.

[@patriciaheraty7380]

"Decluttering is a form of self-care" and we do it for our future-self. What a wonderful way to embrace a daunting and often scary task. You never know what you might find (out about yourself) in the process. Thank you again.

[@JessicaSchmitt-ny6vg]

You don't talk to much - you take the time to explain things well and share why the topic you're discussing matters. Most helpful "ah-ha moment" for me was realizing I wasn't making progress, despite all my purging of items, because the inflow of items wasn't being addressed. Thank you for all your helpful videos!

[@mnmo4bb]

To the people criticizing you for "talking" too much... there's plenty of black & white lists to print... I really appreciate you helping me focus on the why not just the what in this journey. So just wanted to pause at 4:48 and tell you thank you!

[@KikkiF]

“Why spending so much money on buying more things when your home is already filled with stuff” is exactly what I needed to hear! Thank you for that! I do plan to declutter my home ‘cause I think I have so much that it is overwhelming me and I will also take your advice that “do a little when there is time is much better than than trying to find time for everything at once”. It will also make me finding time for accepting that I’m not what I own. Thank you again for your wise advice. I take it to my heart and now I’m a subscriber to your channel.

[@francoiselafferty-hancock5112]

Oh wow that 'sprint versus marathon' quote re Marie Kondo just stopped me from actually doing anything. I absolutely agree with your comment about doing small things here and there. I decluttered our top drawer and one of the benches in the kitchen. Took me a couple of hours but I've been able to maintain these spaces and now feel like having that success means I want to build on it and find other small, manageable areas to declutter.

[@carlh-thehermitwithwi-fi679]

6:54 - no harm in goting into Habitat for humanity or salvation army...IF you are seeking a low cost..NEED let me say that again NEED NEED NEED Not "oh, how cute!" NEED Be very clear and sure on your NEEDS and WANTS, this helps a LOT

[@amandasymon4363]

Totally agree that you need to carry out a lot of internal work before you can let go of external clutter. I am now gaining momentum thanks to your help 👊 This doesn’t happen over night - You need to keep in mind what your end goal is.

[@AtoZenLife]

Fist 👊 bump to you

[@karlabritfeld7104]

You still sound reluctant

[@MsBubu26]

I agree with you with #3. I don’t watch the videos « 20 things to declutter now » as they are always the same: throw away expired food, medicine, broken toys etc. That is not my problem with clutter. My problem is how to let go of the attachment I have for my things. I am good at not bringing stuff in anymore. Next step is I want to do the in and out chart, just so I have a visual ☺️ starting this month, so half the year!

[@sahanabhatt5708]

I just started minimalism. I follow you silently, love the content . I am in process of 6month spend freez , hope I can be successful in my promise.

[@lind774]

So encouraging to hear from someone who has been on the journey for years. We just passed our one year self-imposed deadline for downsizing. We did get rid of a lot of stuff over the year, and i came to the realization is an ongoing process. My next steo is letting go of "fantasy me" items - craft projects that I never finished or even started, magazines I saved to read one article "one day", etc. A little mourning goes with this, and a lot of freedom.

[@user-wg8ue7gm4q]

I had many things I didn’t use! I donated it for a good cause. Much space now in my 3 closets

[@mgmartin51]

I used to hoard books. Now, I give them to the library when I have finished reading them.

[@OdinsSage]

I've been actively, slowly decluttering for probably 8 years now. When I rented my first place with a garage my parents decided they didn't want to store all my childhood things anymore and it was a real eye opener to how much crap I had. Not only was the 3 bedroom house I was renting full (though I was there with 4 people, so that part wasn't all me) but the garage was 50% filled with MY stuff. Around that time I discovered Jenny Mustard (while she was still doing minimalist content) and she talked about how minimalism helped her anxiety. A lightbulb went on for me (im a high anxiety person) and I've been working on downsizing ever since. I still feel like I've got a long way to go, but can confidentially say I've downsized 70+% of my belongings. Doesn't seem like much for how long I've been doing it, but I've come such a long way from where I was. My personal goal is to downsize enough to move me, my partner, and my 4 cats to Europe with as little as possible we'll have to ship. You, Marissa, have been a huge inspiration for that particular goal. Knowing you're family was able to make that happen gives me hope for my future.

[@AtoZenLife]

That’s an amazing journey! And I know about Jenny, I saw she lived in Berlin too, once upon a time. The world is small, but let’s dream big ❤️

[@lindabourcet1349]

I really appreciate you distilling your life lessons into this list. I have a hard time decluttering ‘identity’ clutter that feels like part of who I am. Your taking the time to discuss doing the internal work so clutter doesn’t rebound is helpful. I find having an empty donation boxes near where I have my books and quilting supplies makes it easier to declutter. When the box is full, I drop it off at our library for the Friends of the Library sales and I take quilting supplies to our quilt guild’s Care Quilt program (they make charity quilts). Makes it easier for me to declutter knowing that my possessions are going to help others.

[@LorreneRomanic]

I love listening to you talk. I don't think you talk to much! I love your videos. They're very inspiring.

[@DinosaurDylan8]

“You talk to much” is actually what made me subscribe, and those stories and experiences you share inspired me to start decluttering! 🚪❤️ thank you!

[@AtoZenLife]

No, thank you ☺️

[@infamousamazonian]

Honestly, I enjoy your "talking," insight and the fact you delve deeper into the psychological aspects of material possessions. Your perspective particularly resonates with me, as I too lost both of my parents and have been carting around their possessions for many years. Seeing what you've experienced and how you came to terms with it, has helped give me the courage to let go - and I really appreciate your unique perspective for that.

[@ep23304]

I love your videos because of your unique approach. My clutter is a reflection of what's within. So, thank you again for the "therapy"🙂

[@AtoZenLife]

❤️🙏

[@denaclements3936]

I thought the conversation you had about internal conflict was very helpful for people to hear. You are right to talk about that, because as a therapist it is about the internal process of thinking so you can change how and why you keep things or can't let things go. You are doing a good job communicating and helping others. So, I just wanted to encourage you and thanking you. It helps me to hear it all.

[@ceretbex3543]

I can’t even begin to tell you how helpful your videos have been, and continue to be - I regularly revisit them, to keep me on track. Thank you SO much Marissa 😊

[@erics607]

I feel like I've been doing a pretty good job of decluttering. The past 4 or so years I have lived an extremely busy and chaotic life which made me feel stressed out. I have put a ton of time into thinking about how I want to live a less stressful life, and what that would look like. It gave me time to make notes of areas of my house I want to declutter when I found time to do so. When I found the time to declutter, I would focus on 1-2 areas that would take me 30 minutes or less so I wouldn't get overwhelmed, and I don't put time constraints on myself as to when something needs to get done. I also just recently got back from a trip to Scandinavia where I got to visit Norway, Denmark, and Sweden. In Norway I did a home visit as an excursion and it gave me a ideas on how I can decorate my house in a simple way that is clutter free, as well as give me an idea of what people over there consider essentials in their homes. It made me think about if certain things I have in my home are really needed, or if certain things I have on my wish list of items I want to purchase are really needed.

[@lilouhl9012]

I'm also a young mom of 2 children and I can confirm that there's no such thing as the right time but the benefits of decluttering are so liberating that it's worth the hassle. If I have a few tips to share: . Fix the root of your problem(s), not the symptoms. If you fear to let certain things go, ask yourself why it is so hard. It's only an object after all. Therapy might help for this . Less is more. Less inventory to manage equals more time to do other things that fulfill us instead of dragging us down . Quality over quantity and that's easier to achieve when we stop spending money on items that do not bring real value to our life

[@thelondoners-lifeisart]

Love the deep dive on this. And to the ones complaining that there’s too much talk. You’re impatience and lack of care and thought is the problem. Do the work in identifying your values and bring them into your decisions. You’ll be calmer more grounded and organized. No one can give you a list for this - you can only do this for yourself. Enjoy the journey!

[@LFBodywork]

I moved away from the U.S. 8 years ago and one of my childhood best friends just came to visit. She just left and I have been crying all day, your video came up on the KZbin feed (I have watched many of your other videos!) And it just felt so comforting to watch. I was wondering why? Lol but then I remembered that you speak a lot about grief, you also don't have family around and there is just so much more to your videos than decluttering. So to those who want a list, they are missing something so beautiful and deep. Thank you!! ❤️

[@The_Apollo_Show]

And I also think it’s not just about decluttering or buying less per se. It’s about buying fewer but better quality and fairly traded products. ❤

[@bonnieinthespirit6373]

Congratulations!!!

[@The_Apollo_Show]

I have CFS and my children and husband are hoarders. Things are constantly coming in the house but nothing is leaving 😂. when I was well I had a one in one out policy. Slowly, but surely I have been regaining my strength and every day for just three minutes I Declutter and it’s taken me six weeks to sort out most of the wardrobe and I am just going to slowly get round the house until all the unnecessary stuff is GONE FOREVER

[@HazelCotton]

America's #1 Cleaning Expert, Don Aslett said in one of his books that the average home contains an average of 182,000 items. I believe that and have dejunked a LOT.

[@justbeegreen]

The 15-30 min and don’t wait for the « right » time is helpful for neurodivergent minds. My biggest area for help is papers and letting go of clothing I no longer wear. BTW - Mari Kondo has relaxed since having children. I also don’t want to shame myself during this process - which I feel the minimalist community has a knack of practicing- this can be the worst nightmare for perfectionists. I don’t consider myself part of the minimalist community though - a mix between minimalist and maximalism. It also helps when all family members are on board. I haven’t bought books (unless for classes) in years, however I have books that are out of print and yes, they’re part of my identity. I definitely want to continue to work on my clothes. I enjoy the ritual of switching clothes and shoes for the season - it helps with the transition and feels like a way to say good bye to the old season and welcome the new season. Looking forward to creating more systems that will help me get organized.

[@1anita1m]

Thank you so much. I really needed to hear this. I have been so overwhelmed trying to declutter, that things got worse. I kept focusing on the big picture instead of one step at a time. We are made to believe we need things to survive, when in reality, those very things are what make us miserable. A lot of people get into debt because they think they need to buy things they really don't need. It's a scary cycle we need to break free from.

[@gwenj5419]

Just went to an estate sale. Made me realize again just how much stuff we all have.

[@cs4849]

So much good information here, this was a wonderful video. I would not say I’m a full-on minimalist, but I definitely don’t like clutter and like for my home to be easy to manage. On the other hand, I also want it to be cozy and inviting. One thing I would add is to have some grace for yourself and recognize that there are different seasons in your life and that life can be unpredictable. I embarked on a no-buy year in 2018 and it was going wonderfully, without a single slip, until mid-May when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Suddenly I had postsurgical gear, chemo caps, medical items and new clothes to fit my altered body. At that point in my life, decluttering was the least of my worries. But you can always get back to simplifying. Another thing I never would have predicted was the pandemic and working from home. I didn’t have the kind of job where working from home was even an option before, and then suddenly there was telehealth. It took me a few years to finally allow myself to get rid of all my work clothes since I dress much more casually now. We also built a small home in the woods a couple of years ago and I did a big purge prior to moving here so that I wasn’t having to store a bunch of stuff. I’m an avid cook but I was able to pair down so that we did not need to put in upper cabinets in our kitchen, for instance. But it’s a lifelong process. I do decluttering in small projects now, don’t worry if I can’t get everything done at once, and acknowledge that life continuously changes. You live differently with small children than you do with older children, and both of those are very very different from being on your own or just with a spouse. Currently, I’m adapting to having two messy, chewing hound dogs in the home, with their need for bones, dog beds and what not. I fully believe you can have both simplicity and the normal chaos of life, and be grateful for all of it.

[@dobby6799]

I have a major clutter problem. I am not a hoarder, but my friends tell me they fear I will cross the line. I has seen so many videos on how to declutter. Yours is by far the most practical and works for me. My favorite advice is just decluttering a small area at a time. I used to look at all the clutter in my house, get nothing done, because I didn't know where to start. I felt overwhelmed. Now I will tackle just one dresser or just tools in the garage, where I found 4-5 of the same tool many times. Fortunately I have great neighbors. We have a group text so we can say "We are going away for the weekend, please watch my house." I don't want to do a garage sale and sometimes making multiple trips to a thrift store takes too much time. Now I text my neighbors and say "I have a power washer I only used twice. Does anyone want it?" or "There are 3 boxes of great tools on my front porch. Please help yourselves." THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for a great video.

[@ronmorey3475]

The test-taking analogy is a great way to put into perspective how hyper- focusing on one single problem can keep you from overall success. This applies to all areas of life since life itself is a sort of test with a time limit.

[@victor9501]

It really is incredible how long it takes to declutter! I have been working on this for over 10 years...

[@JamieR]

Essentialism ❤ We attach so much story and emotion to material items. When we finally let go, it is soo freeing! Great video!

[@LoveMusic-pd5iz]

I love the remark, "decluttering once is never enough. I'm on my 8th decluttering pass. The process has halted many times, restarted, and gone at different speeds.

[@jennyjenkins877]

The kids' room is so large and they must love playing in there. Are you ever right that decluttering never ends and your advice is spot on to start small and just do what you can, skipping anything that makes you feel stuck. It has taken me many rounds of decluttering to get my home to a manageable state. When you first start, it will be difficult to let go. At first, you may only be able to part with things that are trash, such as items that are expired and no longer in good condition. Next, you might be able to remove the things that you don't care about or use. After you build your decluttering muscles, then you can make a deeper dive into excess stuff and it might take another pass before you can get real with yourself and part with items that represent your fantasy self or deal with sentimental belongings.

[@shirleygermain5707]

I remember my first-day decluttering. I stumble on a decluttering video. (min-mom) I went to my junk drawer. I was hooked after that. I did all my kitchen cabinets that day. The feeling I got was strength! I said to myself... I am sick of all this stuff. I look at stuff weekly, and I am continually tossing stuff out. Layer by layer for the past 3 yrs has been incredible. Throw in a bit of Swedish death cleaning too! The work made my life more straightforward now. Easy-peasy.

[@alexismerrilldragonqueen6552]

What is Swedish death cleaning?

[@susanhutchinson5305]

I only keep my very favourite books now. All well worn covers but I know I’ll read them again ❤.

[@faithhomeschool2789]

Your videos have been super helpful. I found you when looking for family minimalism. we are heading into year 6. And Yes, Clutter is a trauma symptom

[@AtoZenLife]

❤️‍🩹

[@beanybee]

Hullo I'm not done with the video but just got to that part about people saying you talk too much... 1. I disagree 150%. All of the things you said hit the nail on the head. Its all so important. Everything you say/share is valuable and I'm grateful. 2. There are plenty of videos/articles that would fit into what these people need. I wish it was easier for folks to remember/realize. Thank you for being here and for sharing everything you've learned!

[@JFlower7]

I am a minimalist in all things but books. I have a large library and love it.

[@TheMennomilist]

Definitely think with #7, that people sometimes THINK that they can get serious about trying to keep up with a hobby they loved, but really there is no drive for it. If they haven't done it for several years but hope to again, but put in no effort, then it is an issue. It is just that I have helped people declutter and have heard so many say, "I haven't been able to do this in a couple years." Then I suggest ways for them to make time for it and that if they don't feel that passion anymore, to not keep the materials for it, etc. However, so many of them will keep those things for a hopeful time but never push themselves to do it, so I honestly suggest people get rid of the item if they aren't even trying to make time for it and keep it hidden away. I know for myself, I once bought something that I thought I'd use a lot because I once used a similar thing to it for years when I was young. I only used the item a couple times, so I realized, the passion I once had for it is not there anymore. I have learned to do that for other things in my life. . .I won't buy things unless I know I will work at it. I have quite a few hobbies and I make time for them. If I have no drive left, I seriously move on and don't continue in it, but it is rare these days because I have programmed myself. There is a lack of discipline and goal orientation in many who attempt to declutter (which is why your #8 is so great about setting up intentions). That is beautiful that you guys reread books. I think I have reread up to 10 books ever in my life, and so I don't keep books. I have started to read only kindle books because of it or I go to the library instead. I used to be heavily into this book swapping website that isn't doing so well these days, but I did it for about 14 years! I would have a wishlist I'd make, and when someone listed one of their used books on the site, and if I was near the top of the wait list for it, I would receive it. Then I can list it when I am done. I got rid of most of my books that way, and sold others. I loved it. I swapped over 1k books on that site (I read about 100 books a year as it is, sometimes more). I can't imagine if I were to have kept all those books! Always love your lists and your vids.

[@brendachua2573]

At first, very hard to declutter, but in the long run, you will enjoy more time and space when you accept and learned being a minimalist. Thank you so much Mam for sharing your minimalist life with your family👍♥️☺️.

[@raquel5401]

if people just want a list of what to de-clutter they should google search "list of de-cluttering ideas" not watch a you tube channel. I like your videos, and I like how much you talk in them, the insight is more helpful to me than the actual items you get rid of.

[@carolmckay5152]

You Rule Girl! I love that you are helping people connect their internal clutter with their external clutter, thank you so much for helping me work through some of my hangups 🤗

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

For me it started with Marie Kondo aswell. I'm very grateful for her.

[@Jennifer83881]

Great advice, again. Thank you. The point about our clutter being a outside manifestation of our internal chaos/issues/struggles really hit home for me. Also, trying to make our homes look a certain way may not turn out the way we hoped. I found, in my experience, that when my home looked like the magazines (back in the day, showing my age) it felt like I was living in a museum or someone else's home. It felt off... Like you said, when you focus on what you enjoy/like, and what makes you happy, your home will feel so much better, comfortable & like, well, home, to you. 😊 Thank you again for another inspiring chat. 😊 And happy 7th Clutter-free Anniversary 🎉👏🏻

[@marysilvernail7480]

A few weeks ago I removed about 35 items from my closet, mostly purses, totes, makeup bags, 1 sweater and a few pairs of shoes. I selected about 10 items that went back in the closet and the rest is going to thrift. I might get rid of the makeup bags, or use as part of gifts as they haven’t been used. Today was garbage pickup day. In the container: 2 oversized bed pillows, too old facial products, 5 pairs of shorts/jeans. It’s picked up and gone. I admit to cutting a few denim legs off for sewing or patching later. Small steps of a long journey. Next: shoes, mugs, home office stuff I never use.

[@Aaron-hg8jo]

There are plenty of lists on the internet of what to declutter. Don't come here looking for an oversimplification of something so important. I love how Marissa makes me feel like part of her personal journey because of how she tells her story. I watched nearly 100 videos about similar things and none appealed to me, even though I desperately needed to change my situation, as well. None convinced me until I found this channel. Marissa, I can't thank you enough for starting this channel. I'm so glad you haven't changed your style to please those rude commentors. Your experience is important and influential to so many people like me. And the emotion, reverence, and thoughtfulness with which you present it are perfect. Anything else would not do justice to your amazing experience.

[@Aaron-hg8jo]

I'm going through some difficult times right now. So, to see those comments directed at something that has helped me so much made me angry.

[@NICUofficial]

man, "You are not the things you own." Like, I KNOW that, but it's tough right now as I'm letting go of as many books as I can. This is my second major round of decluttering in my life and I knew from the very beginning that "books" was going to be one of the hardest categories for me. Why? Because I've been a lifelong reader, people have always complimented me on how much reading I do... the stories I've read are part of MY IDENTITY but you know what, I'm never, ever ever going to reread 95% of these books... that's the whole damn point, I keep reading NEW books. My reading list (that I want to get to) is easily over 400 books long at this point. So many of these older books can go to new readers who need the stories in their life for the first time. And that thought brings me joy. But still, with some of my oldest books... it's hard! Books I read in childhood, adolescence, and college... Anyway, I figure if I can let go of 40-50% of them in this pass, then that will be a huge improvement! :D EDIT: holy crap lol I typed this out RIGHT BEFORE you started talking about your own book collection. Glad to see I'm not alone in this

[@AtoZenLife]

I was going to say you literally sound like me - I was the fantasy, sci-fi, horror, and manga queen. 😂 I used to take books to read at sleepovers! Books were my escape and refuge - I know how you feel and wish you all the best on your decluttering journey. 🙏

[@knowbeforeyouGo-]

I am a minimalist and frugal spender myself. In return I save more, Spend less time on cleaning or finding things. Looks light to your eyes, less hassle. I don't buy a thing whether it's on sale if I don't need it I don't take it home whether it's for free.. I once rejected a free item too because I simply didn't need it.

[@jspaingreene6350]

I decluttered my youtube channels too! Clutter is everywhere - it's not just material, it's mental.

[@user-ec9gi6ib1e]

I didn’t like very much M. Kondo principles, but one thing that really helped me from her book, was the moment I gathered all the clothes and I realised how big the pile was and that there was a problem 😅 Thanks for the great tips!

[@catw5294]

I found you fairly recently and I love all the "inside" stuff that you share. The inside is what got you here in the first place cause for some reason we have clutter when others do not - so it isn't the stuff but the person.

[@apassionforlace]

Oh, I forgot; the memories boxes are a great principle! My 3 adult kids all got their own box(es) now. That is a good thing, because giving it to them in a box, they have everything in 1 place (too). And, I have my own memory boxes now.

[@jennifermarie8707]

I like that you talk about yourself and use your own experiences as examples.

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

Isn’t it funny that Kondo says it’s a sprint but then tells you to bring every book you own to one spot and go through them all, and to completely empty your closet and deal with it all at once. I think that’s why I had a problem with her system, in addition to the folding.

[@loumoon7660]

I have a bit of an issue with belongings. I try to start small but I find myself “starting small” over and over. I have gotten rid of small boxes or furniture here and there but I sometimes feel like I’m not making any progress. I guess I should just be compassionate with myself but I wish I could find more motivation to do 30 min of organizing a day

[@irosenunez]

the "waiting for the right time" one really got me!! Lol i always feel like the whole house has to be clean before i start decluttering. not anymore!

[@vivianlandrum8507]

Yes! I have come to the understanding that I'm attached to things.