DECLUTTER Toys, Games, and Puzzles With Me

[@annw1395]

What a fabulous closet! Personally, I wouldn't rush to get rid of games and toys if there's a chance someone could still use them, such as your youngest. You've got ample space. Good memories.

[@reallifewithali]

It’s true! Thanks!

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

Yes, Dawn is great! ☆ My first teacher was Marie Kondo. I think it _all_ started with her. And then came Dawn. She's now my mentor for years. 😊

[@reallifewithali]

They are both great!

[@gaild9003]

That closet is fabulous! We have the entire Geotrax collection in bins in our basement. My son is 18, almost 19. I don't want to let the collection go! It's hard because I want to hold onto the memories attached to all the trains and planes I guess. Zachary spent HOURS every day playing with them. I'm hoping for grandkids some day. 😁 My fantasy self is an amazing chef who uses all of her cookbooks. She also is creative and has time to sew, paint, crochet, make cards, arrange flowers, make wreaths, take photos, do puzzles, make cross-stitch designs, scrapbook, read a bazillion books and so much more. Real me is waaayyy too busy in this season of life to do any of that, so I whittled craft supplies down to just what I think I can reasonably do. I love diamond dots and as I recover from surgery I am working on a diamond painting for my mother in law. It's a perfect hobby for me. I understand the mom guilt. We need to lay that down and know we are doing our best. Our kids are loved and well cared for. They will always remember that! I love how your face lights up whenever you see a puppy or dog 🐕❤️

[@reallifewithali]

My youngest actually told me the other day he is ready to let go of the Geotrax. He doesn’t play with them that much and when his friends come over they just make them a HUGE mess all over and he’s left with cleaning them up! Fantasy self…ugh. I have way too many things too and am trying to be more realistic. One day I might have time for the other things.

[@gaild9003]

@@reallifewithali What a great model you are providing for your son! My son easily parts with things he no longer likes or uses. I wish it was as easy for me, but I'm getting there! You will have time for other things later. This is just a temporary season you're in. It took me a while to accept what my real self can do vs what my fantasy self could do. I'm not 100% there, but I've released the guilt about unfinished projects and the perfectionism mentality that had me in a downward spiral for many years. Thanks again for sharing your life! ❤️

[@aneidadelapaz3766]

❤

[@reallifewithali]

Thanks!

[@andeebee2530]

Great video, I love seeing what others declutter and listening to their reasoning. I have lots of games in my spare room cupboard from when the kids were young. The only one We tend to play now is Rummikub. I hadn’t even thought to declutter them but will put it on my list to do. Im a puzzle lover too. We like the Wasgij ones a lot. The book store one your daughter is working on looks cool.

[@reallifewithali]

I'll have to look into the Wasgij puzzles. Thanks for the suggestion!

[@kimibrown1578]

Great video! I like how you talk through your decision process. I also love puzzles. I have come to be able to get rid of the puzzle that I don’t think I’ll do again or if I didn’t like the pieces that much if you know what I mean.

[@reallifewithali]

Thanks Kimi!

[@iwonaidavid]

Love your videos ❤️

[@reallifewithali]

Thank you! ❤️

[@karatsosie9867]

I have young kids still but they have a overload of toys literally bins but I still have a hard time emotionally getting rid of the toys I don't know why any tips to help with the emotional part? Thanks

[@reallifewithali]

It's hard! One idea would be to box up some of the toys you think they don't play with. After 6 months or so (maybe a year, you decide the time), see if your kids have missed any. If not, consider donating them. BUT you can also hang onto some that you feel especially emotional about. I have some of those too. I would just make sure you have a limit...a bin that can't be filled past its capacity. Sometimes it also just takes time. Over time, it has become easier for me. I can also see the benefits of having less toys. I don't have HUGE messes to clean up anymore (well, most of the time). Be kind to yourself and don't feel like you have to hurry or do what others tell you. Follow what you think is best. With that said, I can definitely see the benefits of decluttering. I know it is helping me! Good luck and don't hesitate to comment if you have any other questions or need some encouragement.

[@karatsosie9867]

Thanks so much for the tips! I am going to try the one bin idea I love that.