DECLUTTER FASTER with this tool!

What if we did a complete inventory of everything in our house? And what if we also put each item into a category of how much value it ADDS to our life (or how much it sucks life from us!)...I think this might help us declutter faster and with more purpose!
Four Burner Video for Time Management (& Realistic Expectations!): • Best Time Management A...
Home Inventory Printable: cli.re/home-in...
Lemon Bundt Cake Recipe: cli.re/lemon-b...
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M O S T P O P U L A R V I D E O S R I G H T N O W :
57 Things We No Longer Buy: • 57 Things We Don't Buy...
How to Declutter WITHOUT Making a Mess: • How to Declutter WITHO...
FAVORITE Productivity Tip (ever!!): • How to create a "SUPER...
Eliminate Paper Clutter Video Part 1: • Eradicate Paper Clutte...
Organize Paper Clutter Video Part 2: • Simple Paper Clutter O...
THE TRICK TO SIMPLIFY YOUR KITCHEN QUICKLY: • Simplify your Kitchen ...
KITCHEN TOUR : • Minimalist Kitchen Tou...
MY MEAL PLANNING SYSTEM VIDEO : • Simple Meal Planning y...
📺 P O P U L A R R E L A T E D:
Why I became a Minimalist: • Why I became a minimal...
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Royalty-free music used with permission from the KZbin Creator Studio, Epidemic Sound and purchased from AudioJungle.net

[@TheMinimalMom]

THANK YOU for watching!!! Here are the links that I mentioned! Four Burner Video for Time Management (& Realistic Expectations!): kzbin.info/www/bejne/bXmcqHSjf9h0ns0 ::::::: Home Inventory Printable: cli.re/home-inventory ::::::: Lemon Bundt Cake Recipe: cli.re/lemon-bundt-cake I hope you have a great day!!! - Dawn

[@JourneyWithJoanne]

PLEASE, please, please turn on the Closed Captions for all your deaf and hard of hearing fans!

[@carrieharris2337]

Hey Dawn, just a heads up…when opening the link for the printable and reading through the article (under the ‘fantasy self’ section picture with the clipboard where is says Side Note:) there is a spot that says, “[insert link once it’s published]”. You do such an amazing job helping all of us I just wanted to return the favor in a small way! Hope you have an amazing day!😘

[@TheMinimalMom]

@@carrieharris2337 thank you so much for letting me know!!!

[@TheMinimalMom]

@@JourneyWithJoanne I am so sorry, it is supposed to turn on automatically, I am checking on it now!

[@terriwalker7545]

@@TheMinimalMom It turned on for me, and I am so appreciative of the captions being severely hard of hearing. I am also so appreciative of all of your content, and with your family members as well. Very thought provoking and loving the humour and positive vibes as well!

[@24carrotgold8]

Another column especially for us older folks would be applying the "Swedish Death Cleaning" principle. Who would want this if I die? If no one, get rid of it now 👍🤗🥳

[@mindymudge7247]

Yes I am in 60’s now and started asking my kids what they want because I believe better to get rid of it now rather than them having conversation of “ why did mom hang on to all this stuff”?

[@angelaholland1236]

My mom is trying to do the Swedish Death clean now.

[@melissaj8384]

Yes! My mother-in-law (84) is moving to a much smaller home and we are going through this now. She's passing on a lot and getting rid of 3/4 of her household.

[@ourtinyacres5173]

I've been doing that already in my 50's because of helping some hoarders move and cleaning up after them.

[@joy2world858]

Working on that now in early 60s. I brought things home from parents and in laws when they passed away. They were sentimental items but now look and think my son won’t want and they are going. I actually have some empty drawers!

[@SSandtheRVCats]

I have to tell you what a blessing you recently were to me. Over four years ago I got into minimalism and we transformed our house. We sold it and moved into an RV. The clutter built up over time to the point that our couch and kitchen table (and everywhere really) were full of clutter. I was feeling hopeless of getting it cleared and then the other day I watched a couple of your videos. The next day I decided to do 5 minutes of clutter clearing. Mind you I hadn't slept well the night before and I was standing in the kitchen crying because of how tired I felt. But I did the five minutes which turned into 2 1/2 hours. We now have our couch and kitchen table back! It was both a blessing from God and from you. Praise God and God bless you and your family, Dawn. ~Sharon

[@brendamcelyea1246]

Beautiful! Yay God! Yay Dawn! Yay you!

[@brookemace7578]

I like the “Spontaneous Combustion” application!! That’s HUGE! I can think of a whole list of items I’m holding onto because of emotional guilt. There’s a few things off the top of my head that I would be relieved if they burst into flames 😳 Bonfire anyone?! 🔥

[@marthajoyrichardson7727]

me too! I probably have an entire garage full. There is stuff in there still from when we moved 3 years ago lol

[@lindapedersen-hylka7170]

@@marthajoyrichardson7727 Same here, I'm going through boxes I moved with me 3 years ago that have been shoved in a closet. I've got 4 boxes & 3 bags of donate & made countless trips to the trash, so far. 3/4 of the closet done & 1 more closet to go. Yay me

[@brookemace7578]

@@marthajoyrichardson7727 Lol! We’ll meet for a bonfire!

[@MamaBear-m7o]

It works well for pantry items and cleaning supplies! It keeps me from accidentally repurchasing things I forgot I had.

[@tgayer1]

#1 would be masks, right?! 😂

[@dsr8223]

"Managing inventory" is my favorite tool, ever since you first introduced the concept in an earlier video. I was already on board and decluttered, but that idea has helped me stay the course. BTW, inventory includes time users, not just space users. I've had to train myself to say no when asked to take on too many volunteer and social obligations.

[@TheMinimalMom]

Love this! SO glad to hear!!!!

[@BrendaHendrickson]

Same for me!

[@sburwell75]

Yes! I am a retired teacher who used to help with so many school projects and activities. Since retirement, I have concentrated on just things I really love and I don't feel guilty for saying NO. It is wonderful!

[@corinnestauffiger5693]

I guess we have about 300‘000 Lego blocks alone 🙈😂

[@MegDesignsCA]

So true! Lol

[@Ldrousseau]

Omg, that’s exactly what I was thinking! We. Have. So. Many. ☠️

[@bambitrujillo4915]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@barrysparksofficial]

I died laughing!!!!🤣💖

[@jennifernorton5885]

I’ve 24years worth of LEGO and my youngest who is 10 loves it too. It’s waaay too much and all mixed together. I loathe it at times but just can’t get rid of it.😔

[@gratefulketo2211]

As I no longer eat deserts, I found another use for my Bundt pan. I brought it outside and anchored it with a stake. It makes a great food or water bowl that the dog can not tip over!

[@MaxineAnne77]

How clever!

[@gratefulketo2211]

@@MaxineAnne77 … now you’ll go hunting yard sales to find an old Bundt pan! :-)

[@JamieM470]

That's actually brilliant lol

[@susanjohnson4227]

Genius!!

[@ChristieIngram]

We are moving to a house 75% smaller than our current house. We are getting rid of at least 75% of our stuff. 100% of my personal stuff I am getting rid of is “fantasy self” items.

[@TheMumfordMob]

Moving is a great way to do this and decluutter! 😬 You don’t realize until you have to pack those 300,000 things that you have!

[@TheMinimalMom]

Right!?!?!

[@mandycurlyq1869]

Every time I move I become more minimalist lol

[@meman6964]

Or install new flooring, it's like moving inside the walls 🤯

[@wonderwoman5158]

I’m dealing with that and we only have 2 rooms but omg it’s taking longer than I would like. Mostly because I’m selling certain things and when people don’t buy it’s discouraging but I am patient and I know I need the money so I pause and reassure myself that once it’s sold I’ll feel tons better.

[@ginamcdonald7854]

@me man I’m ready to have new flooring installed,and I’ve picked out color of vinyl planks I want installed. There’s still so much to do to get ready for this so it’s going to be a while longer with this worn out carpet 😢

[@monicaballesteros841]

Dawn can you be my best friend?? Everything you talk about about makes sense and your words are in my head every time I’m decluttering an area, thank you so much for all the advice and motivation.. 😊

[@tiffanytempleton2201]

Me too!!! Wish we were neighbours lol 😂

[@sj6728]

I feel the same way!!!! I enjoy every video as if it were a time to visit with Dawn.

[@girlonaswing9439]

Me too...your Michigan friend🤝

[@edianelaub1523]

Me too! Your North Dakota friend.

[@MittenPrepperVet]

Me me meee tooo! Another Michigan friend! :)

[@ashleyheim7091]

I've often wondered what I would miss if there was a fire. Like if my entire house burnt down completely to ash, what would I miss? I can honestly only think of about 10 items. That tells me that other then the essential things (things like a pot to cook in and toilet paper) I only really need to hold on to those 10 things! I keep an inventory sheet of my food already, but now I want to do one for the bathroom and one for clothes!

[@chantellecunningham8899]

It’s been so horrifying and freeing when we put all of our donation items stacked on our porch for a pickup, it just reinforces decluttering and that there’s always more to do!

[@lalahdz9553]

My mom just had a stroke and in the ICU. I do not care about anything else. It proves that material items are not important just some sentimental items. I've been stressing out rage purging and stress cleaning.

[@lauramarie6353]

Boy do I know this feeling. I am so sorry to hear this, praying the Lord heals her and for you to have peace. ❤️

[@katherinec7698]

An illness or emergency really puts things into perspective. I had a taste of this with my husbands open heart surgery. I was feeling a little helpless and the cleaning, decluttering and donating helped me feel in control of something in our lives. I think using your energy in that way is great. Praying for your family.

[@lalahdz9553]

Thank you everybody for your kind words

[@naggingchinesemom]

Sending your mom positive energy. When my grandmother passed away, we had to deal with over 70 boxes and 40 years of hoarding. Instead of celebrating her, we were stressed and overwhelmed with discarding the boxes while having to sift through everything to make sure she didn't hide anything valuable. All my best to you and your family.

[@sarac.3259]

Sending love and prayers to you and your Mom - that she will be well soon - from across the ocean. You are so right re priorities.

[@jillgott6567]

Timely- I just officily retired an hour and 24 minutes ago I had a list of things to accomplish by retirement and decluttering was one of them but you have shown me how important it is to realize this is a journey and not a destination. So, as I make plans for my fun, and yes, work filled retirement decluttering g will be an ongoing part of the journey and not the end. I had been harsh on myself because the decluttering was not completed but my friend Dawn says it is a journey so along that route I will happily travel with less guilt

[@rebeccasargent1795]

Enjoy your retirement

[@cindygray8322]

Congratulations and just know I am ssssoooooo jealous of you right now!!

[@theresahoward7216]

We just moved from a rental home we were in for 5 years and I have to thank you again for giving me the tools to help my husband and myself get rid of someday and guilt clutter in the process. After seeing how much stuff we still have...we have a lot of work to do as we unpack and I am so thankful that I can rewatch your content and share it with those around me.

[@lindapedersen-hylka7170]

Dawn has talked about "building up your decluttering muscles". I'm on my 3rd go round of my house. Things that seemed impossible to get rid of the first time around are in the donate box this time. It gets easier each time. I'm hoping this will be the last round.

[@theresahoward7216]

@@lindapedersen-hylka7170 thank you. We really have a lot of guilt clutter. I have talked to my family very frankly about it so that has made it much easier. My husband is starting to discuss it with his family and I am sure that will help too.

[@ShaunDell30]

I could get rid of about 75% and I would feel sooo amazing. I have already started purging. Thank you so much for your videos!!!!

[@BrendaHendrickson]

Your concept of “inventory” has been SUCH a help to me as I “kindly invite” items to leave my home.” 😉 Grateful for you, Dawn, and for the impact you’ve made in my life and my home. ❤️

[@MelindaPlainandSimple]

"I'm sorry, it spontaneously combusted." 😂

[@MegDesignsCA]

Love it!

[@cheryllovestoread]

Wish I could do this to some of my hubby’s stuff! 😏

[@MelindaPlainandSimple]

@@cheryllovestoread 😂

[@jessicaderstine4061]

I wonder if my kids (13,12,6 🤣) would take that for an answer

[@BeachLoverCindy]

😂🤣😂🤣

[@AngPerry]

The "combustion" thought literally just happened to me today with a mug i couldn't decide about it just broke while just holding it Guess i didn't need it lol actually felt relief as i threw in trash

[@NancyLudden2]

RVers have to do these principles when they make a choice to live in an RV instead of a stick and brick home. #noregrets

[@isabelb5500]

I would add a category to the inventory for ‘could spontaneously combust’, and I would probably check it often.

[@ramalakshmipradeep]

🤣🤣 that would be great

[@karenhernandez8696]

I gave my extra yarn to my church. While I crochet I don't do it as often as I thought I would.

[@cynthiajohnson8463]

I won’t miss ALL my books and ALL the school supplies I have. I love them but don’t read them and or use them. Please disappear so I don’t have to make the decision myself 😂.

[@jessicaderstine4061]

I'm a former teacher. Seriously, don't hurt yourself keeping it. I just came upon a box that's 20 years old. Trust me, it was all junk

[@Deb52189]

Books are sooo hard!

[@sherriochsner7699]

Think of the joy someone else would get from the book if you give it away. 💝

[@ceciliavalencia7656]

I swear I get it its difficult

[@thatswhatisaid8908]

Hmm, i hate to speak ill of books, but this sounds like you could benefit from applying the Spontaneous Combustion Rule here.

[@annahammond9905]

God I would hate to try and do this even though I've declutted loads

[@sj6728]

Me too!

[@annikawawrzyn7629]

I did it and hated it and wont Do it again 🤣🤣 but it is probably a good idea for some 😊

[@ultravioletpisces3666]

I will probably never do this but will use some of the ideas.

[@wonderwoman5158]

I would say only do that for things you know for a fact you don’t care about. And things that your doubting put into a box and if it gets overloaded and you don’t use or need anything in that maybe box get rid of it.

[@Jessica_Jones]

I know! I started counting my clothes once and went, nevermind! 😂

[@Debbie-Savings]

Dawn you’ve inspired me so much! I’m still binge watching your channel in my spare time! Soooo many great tips and I’ve already been working on my place when I have the extra time. Thank you for all these vids and for all your hard work making them! ❤️ Have a great day! 😃

[@janisstrohl5712]

I've been making the lemon cake for weeks! Mine has lemon extract and white chocolate chips. A little lemon juice and some zest in the frosting is nice too. 💛

[@TheMinimalMom]

Ohhhh, that's a great idea!!!!!

[@kathybullmer8884]

The lemon 🍋 cake looks delicious!

[@marthajoyrichardson7727]

I could literally get rid of over 90% of the stuff in this house and not miss a thing, my husband and/or 12 year old would die lol

[@veronikab1607]

same😅

[@charlenebrissette3348]

Me too, but no 12 year old, only a husband lol.

[@530Paradise]

Do you ever wonder how true that is though, like box something up and pull it out if they ask where it is? I have a box of my husband's stuff I would literally never get rid of because they are some sort of sentimental, but I am sure he doesn't know where it is or notice its absence from primary spaces right now. It was never unboxed after a move.

[@sjf3930]

I have 8, 10 and 12 year olds. And a husband. It will kill them to pick up after themselves. So since I pick up their stuff, I pick it up and place in a tote. All totes get shoved up against wall in dining room. There's only 2 closets in this house, no garage, nothing. There's 9 totes so far this year. No joke. Only twice my kids tore through it and I cleaned it up. All if it has until Christmas break to find a home. Don't help my husband keeps bringing stuff home either.

[@samanthab3292]

Hide it for awhile to see if they notice 😂

[@laurelin4401]

If you count individual legos, I probably have 300,000 items in my house 😂

[@ramalakshmipradeep]

LOL 🤣🤣

[@intherockies]

Right 😂

[@TheMinimalMom]

Hahahaha, right!?!!?

[@michelleprice5945]

Our basement looks like Legoland!

[@MittenPrepperVet]

Yessss!! I'm selling off the once put together back in the box lego sets online. Extra money for my dollar store bins. :)

[@karenhanson8004]

We recently painted our entire living room and stairwell and I just can’t bring myself to put back up all the various wall hangings because I’m loving the plain walls so much. Now I’m hoping it all spontaneously combusts 😄 Thanks Dawn, you are such a blessing!!!

[@natalieeubank4533]

Lol, I need to know how and what tools you used to do this I am beyond scared to paint my stairwell

[@hollys6821]

I thought for sure you were going to accidentally drop and break that milk cup thing.

[@daynastant4201]

I was concerned she was going to drop it too.

[@angiewalker1948]

Me too!

[@tgayer1]

Me too!

[@catmom9755]

Anyone who has had a house fire or other major home owner's insurance claim has had to inventory _every_ item in their house. It's overwhelming and discouraging.

[@TheMinimalMom]

Oh my goodness, that would be incredibly overwhelming!

[@amandagomez4660]

That’s not fun to think about, but it’s a good point. Also, for any expensive items, I think I heard, you should have pics of the make and model of things. That would definitely be overwhelming...

[@catmom9755]

@@amandagomez4660 Yes, makes, models, photos, etc. The advice is to walk around your house with your cell phone and open every cabinet and drawer taking video and or photos of every item. And then make sure all of that is uploaded to the cloud somewhere. Insurance companies require proof of what you had. Our fire was several years ago and we had purchased all of our appliances and electronics from Best Buy. We were Reward Zone members and Best Buy was able to give us a list of all of our purchases. That was incredibly helpful to prove what some of our most expensive items were. These days going through our Amazon orders would serve a similar function. LOL

[@lifewithlarsandsusie8315]

I was thinking the same thing. I should take photos just for a fire.

[@catmom9755]

@@lifewithlarsandsusie8315 Please do! We had minutes to evacuate our house, all taken up by trying to get our pets out (2 cats were trapped, but found a safe air pocket and survived against all odds). Once we knew they had survived the worst part wasn't the things we lost, but dealing with the insurance company who was reluctant to part with (literally) any half penny they didn't have to.

[@gorgo4910]

So funny that you use spontaneous combustion! Years ago I imagined a very small tornado sucking up all my rummage sale stuff, and, realizing that I’d be relieved rather than upset, vowed that once it goes out for a garage sale it doesn’t come back in. Life changing! (And now I don’t have enough stuff for garage sales- yay!)

[@TheMinimalMom]

This is SO awesome! Love it!!!

[@lifewithlarsandsusie8315]

I had to stop garage sailing. I spent to much on junk!

[@carmenm.4091]

And again a very good video that gives me hope and puts me in the right mindset to declutter. I got rid of guild stuff already, but the one day I will need it stuff is a tricky one. Because I can’t look into the future, then again, we are ‘creatures of habit’ as you say and I should face up to that. Therefore I should certainly get rid of a lot of my hobbie stuff. I’ve done so already, but not enough. Covid gave me a lot of spare time (the only good side effect of this terrible time) so I noticed that I had no excuse not to be creative. I couldnt use all the stuff I had with even so much time on my hands. That was an eye opener for me and a little shocking. The -one day I will have time to make this or that- is a myth! Thank you for putting all this good advise out there! 🙏🏻❤️

[@travelwell6049]

Seems like if this is something you can’t do mentally then you definitely have too much stuff.

[@laurawhitehouse823]

I already got rid of the Bundt cake pan! That's okay; I passed it down to my daughter. Now she can be the designated Bundt cake maker!

[@cynthiajohnson8463]

Taking an inventory it’s too much for 😅. But I love the idea! Have watched ALL your videos for the past three years. So a super fan here!!

[@intherockies]

It's too detail for me too. I'm going to use it as a guide to reference when I'm going through items. I'm not writing on it though. This ladybug has zero micro tendencies 😂

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you so much Cynthia!!!!

[@LastingHope]

Same here, I never miss a video!

[@tgayer1]

Well I’m a super DUPER fan! 😂😂😂

[@cajbaf]

Lol my kids make fun of me because I have a list of what is in my freezer hanging in the side. I feel I don't have to open the freezer and stand there deciding what I want to take out for supper. I also have a list of my additional stock items that are in the basement. As I rotate the items I can also see what I need to purchase to restock.

[@jodimurphy8440]

I’ve had this on my to-do list for awhile. I think it’s a great idea!

[@gorgo4910]

Man I have tried that and I just don’t update it. Tips?

[@trinam2503]

Love this!! I have done it several times and it is awesome when i can keep it up. But then work gets crazy and my husband takes over cooking for a week or two.... And it takes a while to get it back on track. But it really does make a difference when I do it!

[@cajbaf]

Gorgo, I don't know that I have tips. It is just a continuous process. If I take meat or what I have listed out I cross it off. If it's my last item of that or I see it's low it goes on my next grocery list immediately. There are certainly times I miss things but I just routinely go over it again to keep up.

[@fryefoto]

Gorgo, your comment made me think. Maybe instead of a written list you could create a semipermanent list with magnets. When you have an item in the freezer place a magnet with the item written on it on one side of the freezer. Move the magnet to the other side when you remove the item. Some advertising magnets are easy to cut up and cover with labels. Hope this makes sense and helps! 😀

[@michellehoward2293]

This is SO good! Thank you for sharing this with us. This week I decluttered my desk I’ve had for 36 years that my daddy built for me. At one time I owned three desks. I love them. But it was no longer serving me or my family. I’ve tried to force it to fit our new home for the past few years. It’s so freeing to finally have the SPACE in our home.

[@patriciaburr4826]

I love this. I put fantasy self on hold as I am in process of a weight loss goal of 70 lbs for this...my year of health. Down 25 so far and going strong. As I reach a new size I will donate the others so letting go in reverse. Working on some guilt stuff right now. Love that sheet. Can I get a copy somehow???

[@ramalakshmipradeep]

She has given a link in the video description box.

[@deborahjames3113]

I found the free e book you are showing here from The Minimalists...looks intriguing! I will try to read it. Although I really prefer watching your videos, as you have a very simple way of describing the tips and you show examples of what you are talking about through your great (and probably very time-consuming) editing. I learn so well from you! It's been almost 3 months since we purged over 40%, put 20% into "Quarantine" (which NOBODY has missed!) and I now have such a useable "work environment" (aka my kitchen) and the freedom I am experiencing by how little time it takes to clean is such a gift...THANK YOU!!

[@jnichols7886]

I was so nervous that you were going to drop the milk glass when you were holding it in your hand and gesturing at the same time! 😂

[@joelkalleschmitz1511]

"Fantasy self" real talk: books are my weakness. I accumulate books wanting to read them all for their amazing insights, but in this stage in life, just isn't reasonable.

[@williamsmith4899]

Let the books go - your local library is full of all the books you could ever want to read.

[@Romans828girl]

@@williamsmith4899 I guess that depends on how much of a nerd you are. I regularly search for books that my local library does not have, and I live in a large city with a fantastic library system. Unfortunately, they purge the classics and the old stuff with tried-and-true wisdom in it, in favor of a pretty, roomy, airy feel that includes some empty shelves. They don't want to keep up with the inventory later. Also, my husband goes down rabbit holes, researching some unusual subjects. Our library can't help him much. I'm on board with decluttering everything except the books.

[@KSLassie457]

Thanks for the inspiration! I have been putting off deciding on what to do with the many recipes that I have collected over the years. And realized that if I haven’t made them yet, I probably never will. Trashed them!

[@loriolsen5785]

I moved 3 months ago. In that time, we have unboxed everything that we need for daily life. I purposely left in the boxes anything that was not needed by someone in the house over this period. My basement has A LOT of boxes that NO ONE has gone into to find something particular. Guess where I am going next for purging! I cringe at just how much there is, but I am also ready to lighten our load. Just to think...we moved it, and now I am going to get rid of it. Arrrg! But better late than never!

[@sewblessed4777]

Hi, You have really been used to inspirer me to get stuff out of our house. I am so enjoying less more and more... I just made a Bundt carrot cake for my granddaugters 14th birthday.... I am a quilter and have stopped buying more fabric and using what I have on hand. It feels great and my bank account likes it a lot. God bless

[@trishl1741]

Check out Karen Brown's (of justgetitdonequilts) sewing room decluttering challenge. I even re-homed and sold some fabric I didnt love.

[@meagankeele2835]

I need to do an inventory. Maybe it'll convince others to let go 🤣

[@marthajoyrichardson7727]

i should take a week and inventory everything in my husbands "play room/game room" and present it to him 🤣

[@azwife35]

LOL. My husband was listening to this while I was watching and he said he probably has 300,000 items just in our garage. And I think he's right. My only comment, "that's a lot of inventory to manage". I've gotten rid of a lot in my house, probably 60-70% over the past few years of decluttering. I don't bring a lot in. And I still have a lot to manage, so it's time for another round of decluttering.

[@kkwojt07]

YOU, my friend have become such an inspiration and motivation and a life changer for me! For YEARS I’ve struggled with severe anxiety and everyday stress. I never wanted to go the medication route as I am more into trying other things first before medication. I’ve struggled with the stress of managing so many things in my house and clutter and just unnecessary things. Buying things we don’t need just for immediate pleasure and joy but then never using it again or rarely using it. Since finding your channel I have simplified my home so much it has made such a TREMENDOUS difference in my life!! I still have some things to work on and continuing progressing, however the amount of change I’ve made so far has made such a difference. To you, I say THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!! I have 2 Children who I can now spend more time and energy with. You’ll never know how much all of your info has helped me!

[@conniebeane6164]

"The stuff taunting us." Yes! I'm beginning to recognize that some things are not just space hogs, they're a psychic drain on my spirit. It's not a matter of letting go, as if I am the one clutching THEM, it's a matter of liberating myself from their hold on ME.

[@lydiak4392]

I’ve been on my minimalist journey for 7 years now I would say, and there is probably still at least 30% of my things that I wouldn’t be sad to see “spontaneously combust”. I guess that’s my sign to go further 😅

[@kakylong2]

Wow! I needed this video. My sister works for an ins company & if your house burns down they have you inventory everything you lost in the fire. I can't imagine writing down 300,000 items. Also, the other morning (about 3 a.m.) I couldn't sleep & I thought if I only had 1 hour to grab everything that meant the most to me what would I grab? That was very eye opening to me also. I was amazed at what popped into my mind. It wasn't much of anything. Then I thought I should get rid of everything else. Thank you Dawn for making these thought provoking videos. ;0)

[@stephanier1336]

I got rid of my Bundt cake pan and regretted it. I bought a new one the other year hahah!!

[@brandibobb8653]

Thanks for this! Been debating selling my elliptical....I'm not in the season to use it! It's leaving!

[@sheilak4493]

IMPORTANT I was just try to find this week the four burner concept and had to be God who led you to do this! How cool is that!

[@katiebellejohnson3442]

God is in the details!

[@katieking7438]

This is great! I literally created an Amazon list called 'essentials' and this was the missing part I needed to transfer that thought process over to the rest of my life! ugh! so simple but not obvious - very helpful! thank you!

[@carolsailer1395]

When I decluttered my clothes 3 yrs ago, I decided to inventory them after. This way, if I want to purchase something, I make sure I either really want it or if I think I need/want something in a certain category. Also, whenever I wear something, if I don’t like it anymore, I get rid of it right away, instead of waiting. I need to declutter shoes though, I keep thinking I’ll wear certain pairs & never wear them! Lol I use to buy a lot of makeup & skin care. I have an inventory of that because I did overspend...I’m really doing well now & not buying until I am using the last product of that category. It’s unreal how much I kept buying because of a sale or just really wanted something. I’ve made better choices over the past few years. My problem is other areas of the house that I need to declutter & get rid of. I can manage a few areas of things, while other things it’s chaotic! I just need to do it in other areas of my home! Lol

[@sandyb34]

Someone asked my husband and I recently, if we had a fire in our home, what would be the first thing we grabbed. We said "each other and our son". I just need to make sure my family is safe. My cousin's house recently caught fire and they lost everything. Her husband and son were buried in rubble in the lower level and the fire burned the floor out from under my cousin as her and her daughter were escaping from the second floor. I had that in my mind when I was asked that question. So did my husband. Sorry for such a bummer comment but it really put 'things' into perspective for us.

[@NLY1WAY4U]

I just got done doing inventory of consumables and hygiene/meds. I am putting categories on a blank paper, inserting into a plastic sleeve so I can use dry erase when items used or added. Keeps supplies updated so do not buy extras. Now on to stuff we have. These categories should make it easier to manage. Thanks Dawn!

[@stenoodie]

I'd love to get rid of at least 75% of what we have in our 4-person home! That's my goal ☺️

[@d.zyned2thrive584]

I just want to give you a hug 🤗 I love the spontaneous combustion rule. Years ago we had boxes of stuff in our garage and mold got into them. It was a great feeling to be like, "oops, it has mold, guess I have to toss it"🤷😁

[@judysbakeryandtestkitchen1654]

Thank you very much. As I came in the house, I noticed some negative energy when I looked at this one decorative object. How it goes! Nice detail on the Bundt cake!

[@cindy844]

I could probably get rid of 75% of the stuff in my house, and never miss any of it.

[@ramalakshmipradeep]

You are my not-born-with-me sister 🥰🥰

[@gratefulketo2211]

My girlfriend calls that “ sister from another Mr.”

[@ramalakshmipradeep]

@@gratefulketo2211 brother from another mother is the famous rush hour movie dialogue.. Jackie chan movie I hope it is rush hour

[@gratefulketo2211]

@@ramalakshmipradeep I know! But, being female, that line doesn’t work for me! :-)

[@ramalakshmipradeep]

@@gratefulketo2211 😀👍👍

[@janiceyoder621]

I love your guidance that helps me in my own decluttering journey. Stuff weighs us down! I've been struggling with some literal extra weight. Enough that some of my clothes feel uncomfortable. But right now, where I'm at in life gives me very little time to focus on the weight loss burner. So I need to just embrace where I'm at. And strangely enough, that brings freedom!

[@angelasnodgrass6621]

Hi my Mom wanted me to do crafts with her so I did. When she passed away I realized that’s not me. I like decorating but I don’t want to crochet or knit or etc.. I got rid of all the yarn and needles and the rest. It felt so good to donate all that stuff so someone else can use it. I watched your videos and let it all go. Thank you what a relief.

[@MittenPrepperVet]

I am pretty sure that I could still declutter another 40 to 50% in my home and I have been decluttering ALLOT since finding your channel! The last two weeks alone I'd say 1,000 (probably closer to 1500-2000 plus items have left the 4 walls and STILL way too much. Ugh!!

[@sharonhutchinson9604]

My mom’s go-to cake was a lemon Bundt with glaze. Big favorite here!

[@gretchenbenson8300]

Most of the time when I can’t find something I say hmmm when did I donate that? I don’t think the missing it feeling lasts long. But there was one item I got rid of because it wasn’t bringing joy/being used…my Bundt pan.🤣 So for less than $20 I replaced it because now I want to use it and do.👍🏻

[@dannhorne9782]

Laughed when I thought “and why are we buying what is clearanced!?! We need to stop

[@gloriacabeen2819]

Well, I sometimes buy art supplies for my grandsons; they go thru them like crazy. I also buy clearance fabric because I sew!

[@lucydeboxer2565]

I think of Tim Gunn when he says "if you like something enough to buy it at full price, why would you by it on sale?" That's how I think about buying something on clearance, unless it's something I use every day and it just happens to be on clearance.

[@lyndarossi933]

Great idea!!! In addition, to protect yourself insurance companies suggest taking photos ...keep a copy for yourself ,. I took pics of whole rooms and then just opened closets and snapped pics. That covers the main stuff...

[@jennsly6141]

The only thing I’ve gotten rid of that I plan to buy again is my zucchini spiralling thingy. I have found out I have celiac since decluttering and I use zoodles instead of pasta now 🙃

[@cherylbryant6178]

Funny story Jenn. I got rid of my spiral thingy because I had used it once since our daughter bought it for us several years before. The same weekend she popped in and asked if she could borrow it. I felt so awful I made some excuse and I ran down the charity store and bought the wretched thing back! $20!! I told our daughter she could have it, so at least I won’t see it back again :)

[@ruthtorphy2204]

OMG I got rid of mine also. Went to that space nothing.

[@thatswhatisaid8908]

I decluttered mine cos it was clunky and awkward to use and a nightmare to clean. But i bought another which is easy to use and easy to clean. Any one thinking of buying one should consider those 2 things. oneCo s

[@djf8619]

From time to time, I think I would not be unhappy if my whole house spontaneously combusted. But that is only frustration talking. So, why is it so hard to let things go?

[@sundoesshine8800]

It's so hard because we don't want to Make the decision. With combustion, viola! it's already made for you. But by saying you want it combusted, youve actually decided. Pass it along so someone else can enjoy :)

[@lindseyjoy2024]

Having probably got rid of around 30% of stuff I reckon another 30% could go!

[@michelleeigsti8859]

We moved a year ago into a smaller house so knowing that I did a big purge before moving. Now I like to regularly or maybe continually go thru my house reorganizing & decluttering. Just makes the house feel so much better. Im definitely a 'onion' declutter'er just taking off the layers lol

[@trishl1741]

Same here, known we were moving since last November and still peeling the onion! Garage sale, donatons, free stuff, and selling on Marketplace, now I'm very comfortable with black garbage bags!!

[@crhp13tblock52]

I've actually wished my paper clutter would spontaneously combust!! That alone is probably 30-40% of my clutter issue!

[@creatingwhimsy5536]

I have finally after about 2 years built up my decluttering muscle to really tackle the sentimental guilt items! I have emptied 7 large totes of miscellaneous and sentimental and holiday! The more I get rid of ...... the more I want to get rid of! I think drawing a line in the sand with myself about how much holiday decor I want to allow in my life has made a huge impact!

[@dlarsen325]

I cleaned out my attic and it was remarkable! My fantasy self had 3 huge boxes of scrapbooking supplies! I donated it to my local library and they were thrilled to have all the materials! I feel so glad to have given these items for someone else to use ❤️

[@heathersmeather]

I just made a similar lemon Bundt cake for my son’s birthday recently. Good idea about the lemon filling.

[@brendaallen5842]

As far as the spontaneous combustion goes I had a funny experience one time when I was moving from an apartment complex to out of state and I had a desk sitting in outside ready to put in the moving truck, it wasn't an expensive desk and I wasn't sure I wanted to haul it with me, when one of the neighbors crashed into it. I actually started laughing and the neighbor probably thought I was insane but he actually solved a problem 😃

[@j.m.ney-grimm3029]

LOL! on keeping the bundt cake pan! Reminds me of when I donated our springform pan for making cheesecake. I still feel guilty about it, AND I'm so glad I did it anyway. I never once wanted to make a cheesecake in the last 20 years, and now I tend to avoid desserts. I think it is funny that I can feel so relieved and so guilty at the same time.

[@anitabeaudoin5624]

Another brilliant video, Dawn! You are such a bright spot in this world and have helped me, and so many others, live a better life with less! We have downsized a lot but the farther we go, the more I want to live with even less. It would be fun to know the actual percentages and numbers of what we've gotten rid of, but I didn't keep track and it would have been too much work anyway. haha I love the "spontaneous combustion" question!! That's awesome! Thanks for all you do, Dawn! Love you.

[@WorkingTowardsImprovement]

All the kids toys 😏 I would so enjoy those to spontaneously combust. Kids may not be so happy lol 😂

[@meln5499]

This video is perfect timing as we prep to sell and start packing for our new home. Great motivation. The less we have to move the happier we will be.

[@lisadearing5960]

4TH OF JULY PARTY BUNDT CAKE IDEA!!! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 Mix Rice Krispys and marshmallows. Add to Bundt pan. Let cool. Top with red, white and blue icing or white chocolate! (Saw this on Pinterest)

[@Mouserjan0222]

My mother built a doll house. It was HUGE it was her hobby. I HATED THAT THING! When she died I struggled with what to do with it. Guess what I did? I LITERALLY took an AX to it so I could throw it away without guilt. I guess it "spontaneously combusted. I took a lot of heat over doing that, but when I asked people if they wanted it, everybody said NO. Understand this doll house was HUGE and NOT WELL BUILT. It was NOT a "work of art" trust me. She did build other stuff that I did keep so no hating on me

[@katherinec7698]

I had to chuckle at the image of you taking an ax to it. In the end, things are just things. 🙂

[@katiebellejohnson3442]

Key words: It was HER hobby. Not yours. I'm so glad you gave yourself permission to ... ahhhh ... "let it go." LOL

[@faiths8385]

I've gotten rid of half of our stuff and don't miss it 😉🙌

[@MittenPrepperVet]

Totally have done inventory lists of EVERYTHING in my home! 🙋‍♀️🙋‍♀️🙋‍♀️ #armyveteran #imaprepper I still declutter and organize/clean obviously.

[@melissataylor5187]

Shrink ourselves😂😂. I love how down to earth you always are, Dawn!

[@agb6330]

Any suggestions what to do with my childhood bone china animal collection????? I’ve shown the g-kids and allowed each to choose a few. Guess I’ll just donate? Ah hah! Spontaneous combustion rule, life changing!! Definitely going to re-watch this with my husband so we can get the basement cleared out. Thank you Dawn 🥰

[@ramalakshmipradeep]

You may consider driving around to find some real poor kids who can't afford. May be during your usual grocery store visit or dropping kids at school. You can donate to them which is instantly satisfactory on seeing happiness on their tiny innocent faces.

[@dsr8223]

I sold most of my treasures online when we downsized. I got several thank you notes notes from buyers who were so happy they finally found that missing piece of their collection or item they had broken years ago or replacement for a stolen/lost sentimental item.

[@lanasturgon3368]

There are many facebook groups geared toward vintage items. Some allow sales. Check the value. It may be worthwhile to sell and you know it will go to someone that actually wants it instead of ending up broken on the shelf at someplace like Goodwill or Salvation Army. I personally belong to several Vintage Christmas groups and have bought a few items from fellow members.

[@maggierose97]

Wow. Bone china animals. Seems like those would be valuable. I have some old bone china dishes that came from Austria and survived a trip in a covered wagon from Virginia to Missouri. Cool story right, too bad I think they are ugly. Not sure what to do with them.

[@agb6330]

@@maggierose97 Mine were collected as a child from the drugstore. My big choice with my “allowance” was whether to buy a matchbox car or china animal 😉. The matchbox cars would’ve been worth quite a bit if I hadn’t passed them down to my younger brother…… >sigh

[@julieb8946]

Such wisdom from such a young beautiful together woman! Dawn, I LOVE your videos and also love the ones where you join with Cas and Dana! You're such a beautiful person inside and out and I value the information you share with us. Thank you for what you do. God bless you and your sweet family!

[@MixitupMarci]

Spontaneous combustion hahahahaha i think i could maybe get rid of some more stuff 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻🥳🥳🥳

[@Isabel_fit]

My husband is going to be so annoyed when I put all of my cute activewear and lacey bras in the guilt / fantasy self categories 🤣

[@denisedenning1369]

Thank you, thank you!! This is exactly what I needed to hear to deal with things that are hanging around and not adding value! On another note, my daughter recommended a monthly make-up box subscription to me. She's a great salesperson, "Oh Mom, you'll love it you get to try different products and it's only $xx per month....." I almost did it, but just thinking about all those little containers coming in to my house every month gave me anxiety! I just couldn't do it! Thanks to you and your encouragement to keep the number of items in my home under control!! I hope you are enjoying your summer!!

[@sweetnsalty4602]

I’m struggling… I’m 3 1/2 months post partum from my second baby, I don’t know what to do with the clothes!! I have 2 Rubbermaid bins of clothes that don’t fit yet. Trying to decide what to keep what to donate… idk if the clothes even bring me joy when they do fit! Picking out clothes has always been tough for me lol

[@jitkavesela3792]

Do not worry about it just yet. Enjoy your baby. Sort your clothes in a few weeks...

[@europeanmominalaska]

I feel you🥰 don’t fit yet / only kept outdoor stuff. And shoes from older kids. Everything else gave away or to other moms who needed them now. If there are a few memory pieces keep thouse. I promise you will be okey:)

[@hummermama]

It's so important to have clothes that fit now. I've always heard it takes 18 months for all your bones and everything to get back in place. Recovery is long and mostly unseen by us. My 7th baby just turned 2 and I had been really discouraged about my clothes. I finally let my hubby buy me some shorts from Walmart that were a little bigger so they fit. Even if they don't fit long....I feel much better when my clothes don't hurt me and they look a little nicer. The money comes and goes and the clothes can come and go too. It's also ok to grow and change into the newer version of yourself which usually means your taste in clothes changes too. And that's ok. Blessings on your recovery ❤️

[@sweetnsalty4602]

@@hummermama So true💜

[@ashleyt6237]

Your videos are always so helpful. I feel like this inventory list and spontaneous combustion concept are game changers for me. I’ve been decluttering with you for quite a while now, and I’ve done pretty well, but I’d like to downsize even further. Thank you for all you do!!

[@anitaholmes6824]

You have been a tremendous help to me, I am not a hoarder by any stretch but I do have too much stuff, I have taken a load to the donation centre and every day I declutter a little bit. Today, 5 tops came out of my closet, course it didn't make a dent but hey, I'm working on it. Thanks for encouraging and inspiring! I love your channel so much.

[@alfienykabutler5919]

Dawn can you rank the items from easiest to declutter (trash, expired food, duplicates, broken stuff) to most difficult (sentimental, fantasy, gifts, expensive stuff)? It would be nice to see your perspective on the different levels. I love the idea of expensive doesn't mean valuable.

[@ellef4812]

My daughter got married 2 weekends ago and I relentlessly went through her room AFTER she took what she wanted. I was able to do this because of YOU!!! Thank you for all that you do, Dawn!

[@thriftinginnewengland3146]

Love this video! Especially "why feel bad in our own house"!!!