Decluttering Identity Clutter: Clearing Out Some Storage Bins

Identity Clutter can be some of the hardest stuff to declutter! Because I accidentally did one of my own decluttering strategies recently (Look. Look. Always look!), I realized I could get rid of some stuff from my theatre teaching days that I once thought I HAD to keep.
My books: www.aslobcomesclean.com/book

[@cindimeyers8074]

I will be turning 65 soon. I've come to realize I'm running out of time to do and try everything I've accumulated over the years. I'm interested in so many different things...(cooking, baking, decorating cakes/cookies, scrapbooking, writing, woodwork, quilting, crocheting, diy's, junk to treasures, beads, painting, macrame, diamond painting, wreath making, decorating, gardening (flowers and vegetables), canning, freezing, card making, sewing, couponing (stockpiling), all crafting, the list goes on and on...I want to try everything and I've bought stuff for all the above hobbies. Reality is I'm running out of time and I need to declutter so I don't leave this burden to my hubby or kids. It's emotional as I come to the realization that my time on earth is in the last season.

[@synergy2222]

That's kind of where I'm at too.

[@JaneH3675]

I'm turning 60. I finally realized too I'm in a different season of life and don't have much time left. I'm in the process if decluttering everything I have. Today has been an emotional one. But I need my home to be simple and don't want to leave so much for my kids to sort through.

[@sherylmccrystal3804]

I'm right there with you! Hugs to you!

[@sct4040]

I feel the same, I have been doing Swedish Death Cleaning. Sold my handbag collection, some jewelry and purged my work clothes. I used the money to pay for medical insurance before I can go on Medicare.

[@mom2bbjandag]

While I understand your thoughts, if you are healthy, you could still enjoy another 30 years of crafts and hobbies. That said, I too have far too many interests, and my interests have changed in the last 20 years. We need to declutter, but we don't need to give it all up.

[@davkmv]

Teacher for 33 years, recently retired identity clutter-working through it. Teaching has changed so much that there are things that now have better options available, so that is one of the things I can use to get rid of things. Also with the Internet and printers, higher quality materials are more readily available. Almost everything I got from my teacher mother has already gone into the trash for those reasons. I decided if I teach again, it will be online, so some materials can go because they don't translate well to online learning. So many boxes still to go through. Another identity is crafter (yarn and fabric): working my way through yarn, still have to get it down to one large tote (at the moment the lid does not fit on), and will start fabric once yarn is done. Oh my goodness, so hard to get through identity clutter. This video definitely helped clarify things for me.

[@jessy7550]

When you said that we might have to confront that our identity has changed a huge light bulb went off. I’ve been holding on to so many things because I feel guilt and sadness over a change in my identity. This video really hit home!

[@ZarahBee]

Here, too.

[@debf2487]

Now it's "somebody else's jackpot". THAT is what keeps me on track. Thank you!

[@AQ12804]

I am so happy I found you through Cass. My house is finally coming under control. If I don’t want to do anything then your voice goes through my head “Do the dishes”, “Five minutes better”. Thank you for everything you do.

[@pwatkins2764]

Dana’s voice “take it there now” is constantly in my head.

[@deboraballes9044]

@@pwatkins2764 that has got to be the best, #1 secret to declutter for me.....found Cass through Dawn the minimal mom😊

[@annettegloeckner1654]

Yep even if you do something it will be better then before is what I hear lol

[@simpleandhealthymama]

Yep, I found Dana through Dawn. And I hear, "take it there now" many times a day. I used to pile stuff up at the bottom or top of stairs and now I just take it all the way to its home.

[@elizabethcallihan9971]

Yes! Even if I don't have energy to declutter, I tell myself, just DO THE DISHES!

[@theoffkeydiva]

I recently had to move and I decided that it was time to purge my “pre-pandemic” wardrobe. Office wear, formal party dresses, clothes for going to a bar, etc. Some of it was stuff I had actually bought during the past year, but at the time I wasn’t being realistic either about my new size or my new lifestyle. The thing that caused me to declutter it despite it all fitting in my wardrobe is that I decided to prioritize the right now, literally. My former landlady was willing to take any donations to the thrift store for me so anything I decluttered, I could just leave behind. I saved so much time that I was able to take my friends who were helping me move out to dinner. It might seem silly but one evening out with them was worth more than dealing with all those clothes for another minute. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@veronicageorge7820]

Congratulations! Thanks for sharing. And what a sweet friend you are.

[@leighfitzpatrick1889]

"I've got issues" lol! Dana you are too funny!

[@sandyhumissouri5131]

The dog and the drum! 😂😂😂

[@Claycat4]

Your drama background makes me realize why you are such a great vlogger! I always love listening to you and watching your expressions. You brought your passion to your decluttering platform.

[@mandaa4]

Yep I went ohhhh this is not surprising haha

[@arianenewell1]

I have never commented before. As much as I enjoy/appreciate the inspiration, my ranking of you just soared when you rolled off "The Bald Soprano"! 👋 Thanks for what you do!

[@sarahlyon157]

I got enough floor cleaned off in our "clutter room" to mop the floor today, and it was such a great moment. I've been working on that room for over a month now and its been progress every time I'm in there thanks in no small part to your advice. Thank you for all you do.

[@lindseymalonelyons6337]

As long as you have decluttered for yourself and helped others Dana, I appreciate the glimpse into your inner struggle and some emotions that still come with decluttering. I could tell when some of the items meant something special to you in your past and you were still able to pass them on. Enjoying watching your vids!

[@vanessacanniford2087]

Tupperware. I've stored Tupperware that moved interstate with me in a box 23 years ago!!! It's still in the box!! I think (much to my husband's delight!!) that it's time to purge..........

[@espruill82]

I love to watch you in action as it's a real representation of the emotions that we go through and how to work through it. Mine are mostly craft or DIY home projects... Identity clutter is a huge challenge. Thank you Dana!

[@belrav9273]

Removing Identity clutter is so hard for me. Thank you for the encouragement. I need to hear it over and over again, and you are so gentle.

[@terryruiz7417]

This helps me so much. I collected craft items that my mother and I could work on when she became homebound. Now, unable to even do crafts, it's time to decide what I want just for my own use. Realistic thought must prevail. Difficult, sad, but necessary. Thank you.

[@loribowen6467]

Yeah! This is now One of my more favorite videos. Thanks for the motivation. I never get tired of seeing this type of content. I’m Still spinning-circles trying to declutter in preparation of a more tidy organized home. It would make for easier cleaning and my best friend saying, “so what are you up to today?” Me - same old pat-phrase, “oh, just working around.” On the surface, very decent but underneath, omg. So depressing. I keep chugging along. But this didn’t happen overnight. So I keep telling myself, eventually it will all come together. I love hearing the trash truck coming down the road. At last minute, I’ve been tossing “stuff?” In the dumpster just as he pulls up. It’s such a good feeling. With that being said, I also have to many eminent (sp?) responsibilities. Basically, life & health that comes first. But when my spurts wake up, outta my way. 😊. Thank you. Excuse any errors 🙃 no time for proofing. I just got one of those spurts. So outta my way 😊🙃😊

[@katiebellejohnson2688]

Yes, depressing but so worthwhile. It helps me to take pictures of the space and store as a note on my phone. When I need motivation, I look back and realize I have moved the needle more than I realized. It’s taken me years to pare down and I have one space left-sentimental and crafts. I just gave my beloved cricket machine to a local homeschool group. Even though it was a hard decision, my children are grown and I don’t use it anymore. I asked the lady if I could use it if I had a craft in mind and she said, of course! She said she has been praying for one! And here it was collecting dust in my home.

[@lisawalsh1941]

Most times your videos put me in the mood to purge, but for some reason, this one makes me want to go thrift store shopping.🙀

[@Marialla.]

LOL yeah, we gotta be there to pick up all those neat Halloween costumes she just donated!

[@elizabethcallihan9971]

Dies anyone else want her red flapper dress?😍

[@marissalaird7574]

Me too! -- probably realizing people are decluttering really cool costumes we need to go find, haha

[@synergy2222]

@@elizabethcallihan9971 YES! ❤️

[@kristennorth3268]

I really appreciate you still keeping an entire bin. I'm in the online course and so many people in the FB group have gotten into a mindset of tossing absolutely everything not related to your current life, and that's a little extreme.

[@DearReaderReadAloud]

I agree! If you have room for the bin, it's unnecessary especially if you think you really truly might wasn't it later and would regret having gotten rid of it

[@britt5753]

For a lot of people that really works well, though. Broadly speaking, once you quit a hobby, a job, or some kind of activity it's because you've lost interest. The likelihood of regaining interest versus starting something new isn't all that high. Might as well get rid of stuff because you'll probably need the space for all the stuff you're about to buy for the newest fascination.

[@elizabethcallihan9971]

Lol. I wanted her to keep the red flapper dress😄

[@amara560]

@@britt5753 I wonder if that is true for most people. For a long time I thought that was true for me, but there are a lot of hobbies I have returned to over time.

[@synergy2222]

@@amara560 I agree with both ways of looking at it. Lifestyle changes - retiring, moving, changing jobs, family growing up and out on their own - can free up time to go back to those hobbies you loved to do and if you know you want to dabble in it again then I say keep the materials. Why pay again if you can store it out of your way until you're ready to resume it.

[@paulapratt9903]

Love your videos! You make me smile! 😁 I found you through Dawn. You would be so proud that after I had a long day on Wednesday that I still did the dishes! I was going to just head to bed but thought "no, if you don't do anything else...do the dishes". 😉

[@AMcDub0708]

My dog wanted to see what that drum sound was too!! He popped his head up and sniffed my phone curiously

[@oregonk91]

It is actually helpful to WATCH someone struggle with stuff they actually need to let go of! (Terrible grammar there...) It gives me hope that I can also LET GO of things I have. For me it's books!

[@Sassysickchick]

Same here! Books are a huge hang up for me, but I’m learning. (Slowly!)

[@Swayspirit]

I got a kindle so I don't need physical books. Still took me a long time as I love books and they're easier to flick through but once I got used to the kindle I now love it and have loads of books on it without taking any space

[@Elspm]

Thank goodness i found you, listening to you declutter helps me to just keep on going. I have ADHD and the "take it there now" approach has changed my life, even with putting things in the bin.

[@meeganblend6849]

Lol at your doggy voice. Especially when a big old German Shepherd walked up 😂 too cute

[@karenf8470]

You hit the doorbell on the head with this one, Dana. Only last year I finally let go of decades-old workshop materials I'd developed. Identity...and the products of a job I didn't even like. This summer I finally dealt with my own group and workshop materials which I'd loved creating and working with...now years past. Harder to do because they were uniquely mine, still relevant, and I identified closely with them and the associated memories. My creative, professional identity. Difficult as it was, I spent time going through, revisiting and remembering all of the experiences and people involved, aided by notes, letters and testimonials. A privilege, pleasure, and gratifying but all in the past now. No more "maybe I'll..." or "I could still...". I've kept a few treasured notes/letters as mementos for now, but also felt relieved of the weight of all those lingering possibilities. I know that if someone asked me if I'd do a program today, I'd either say No, thanks or Yes, and start from scratch. More likely the first. Done. Thanks so much for this wonderful example and great job. It was affirming. (I'd have kept the Raggedy Ann wig though.)

[@barbarastillwell3521]

Use a sound effect app

[@synergy2222]

@karenf8470 I can relate to your situation as mine was the same. It was a vibrant unique life and I had full go ahead to create what I saw our community needed. After years of creating different programs, my last one of 2 yrs was evaluated by 3 states as a model for success and they wanted me to publish a book and go state to state teaching social and community services how to implement it. I wanted to but not bad enough to go through with it. I know if I was asked to start that program where I live now ( and it's really needed) I would have to have full control and a much bigger paycheck. Times have changed since then and there are a lot of mandates to do this or that and I won't be squeezed into a box. that wouldn't align with my value of loving what you do. Your post does inspire me to purge a lot of the material I've been holding onto. Once you put your heart and soul into something you always remember it.

[@synergy2222]

I can relate to your situation as mine was the same. It was a vibrant unique life and I had full go ahead to create what I saw our community needed. After years of creating different programs, my last one of 2 yrs was evaluated by 3 states as a model for success and they wanted me to publish a book and go state to state teaching social and community services how to implement it. I wanted to but not bad enough to go through with it. I know if I was asked to start that program where I live now ( and it's really needed) I would have to have full control and a much bigger paycheck. Times have changed since then and there are a lot of mandates to do this or that and I won't be squeezed into a box. that wouldn't align with my value of loving what you do. Your post does inspire me to purge a lot of the material I've been holding onto. Once you put your heart and soul into something you always remember it.

[@karenf8470]

@@synergy2222 I wholeheartedly agree. Noting how long ago I wrote, I can say that I haven't looked back or regretted my choices re: the work or the materials. In my case, I also felt it was time to pass the baton and only recently was able to pass along several more books toward that effort. Thanks for this!

[@jac4YouTube]

I have a tendency to procrastinate, especially when it comes to cleaning/dishes etc. I marked a saying on a cute little rock by my kitchen sink "just do it" which pushes me into motivation. Works for me.

[@rebeccaforbes8629]

I still have teacher stuff I need to declutter. I taught for 3 years and was the school librarian for 16 years. Definitely need to go through all that classroom stuff! Thanks for the incentive. You are inspirational. :)

[@robindavis672]

Me, too!

[@susanmessenger9052]

Do it! I moved my stuff onto a new teaching student.

[@lindamusser7370]

I never thought of asking myself, "Would I have looked for that item here?" It's like if I didn't know I had it, how could I miss it? Good job consolidating! I'm inspired.

[@irenejohnson9614]

I appreciate the reality of confronting that my identity has changed. Thank you.

[@tashainjena]

I used my dad's ruck sack when I was in college. It was great. Made many trips out dorm windows. Lol. Load up my clothes and instead of lugging them down the stairs, I would throw them out the window.

[@jackiefields1607]

So hard to get rid of stuff that was valuable in another stage of life! I just got rid of 3 bags of teaching materials that I had made myself. They were extremely useful when I was doing private tutoring. I still have room for them. However, that season is over, and no one else would want them so though it was hard (painful to use your word), with your encouragement, I put them in the trash. Thank you!

[@amybee40]

You are brave. I have the same sorts of things. Can't face them yet.

[@MegOfBroccoli]

Why wouldn't you just donate the extra tubs with the shit inside it?

[@ChristianAnneSmith]

I loved seeing your theatrical history! You are still living it in the way you entertain us in something that could be so blah…,you make decluttering fun! Next episode I hope to see you costumed. 🥰

[@beckyharding6571]

That Little House on the Prairie bonnet would be kept and used here!! I keep meaning to sew one for working outside. 😂

[@marlaj]

If you see this, thank you! I was an instructor in Criminal Justice… now I work in social services and no longer teach. It’s been so HARD to let go of all my teaching materials… this video helps me get why - and how to move forward!

[@Arvanlife]

I once paid for a storage unit for a year! (because - insert ambitious project here) I finally went back to it to clean it out. There were two, yes two things in it. They fit in the footwell of my back seat.

[@kellyclemmer9715]

This is so good 💚 I’m “retiring” from teaching art this year to raise my little kids. I’ve decluttered so much identity clutter before I even found this. Now I feel relieved that it’s okay that it was hard!

[@shannonmcgraw6254]

Great video!! Thanks SO much!! I actually also have Costume tubs. My daughter and I were going through the tubs when she reached in and pulled out my mother’s high school ring (1954). I had LOST it over a year previously. Evidently, it had slipped off my finger the last time I looked through them. Just the very best reward I ever got for decluttering!! Decluttering is my FAVORITE way now to find anything that is misplaced/lost. Because when there are fewer things, it becomes more difficult for the important to you things to hide from you. Thanks again for all your great ideas!

[@fenderskirt8]

When you picked up the dress with lilac tulle and said "what in the actual world?" Too funny! Love your videos.

[@Sandiastef]

This is so helpful! I am a teacher and switched schools. I’m part time and I share a classroom do most of my stuff from my other classroom is in my house. I wanted to give myself a school year and then go through the stuff at my house. Now I know what to ask.

[@MelindaPlainandSimple]

This video was perfect timing for me! I'm going through boxes that have been stored in our garage for 13 years. Prior to that, many of them were stored in the attic of our previous home, where we lived for 32 years. And some of it is stuff from childhood, so decades... I use to sew a lot, so I've been preparing my mind to let go of most of my old supplies and fabric, but yesterday I opened a box that was full of bias tape, trims, ribbons, etc. It's probably from the 70s, maybe 80s. I had been decluttering for awhile, so I didn't want to deal with that one. I closed the box and moved on. I knew I needed to give my mind a night or two to be ready to let it go. Having that sort of stuff around is engrained in me. My grandmother sewed. My mom sewed. My sister and I sew. But I don't do it much anymore. I also knew I should tackle that box with a fresh mind. So that's what I'm going to do today. Tackle that box first. Another thing I found yesterday (I knew I had it, but I didn't know where it was), was my corningware set. It is 40+ years old and barely used. I didn't cook a lot, but you're supposed to, right? And you were supposed to have that stuff in your kitchen, right? So I did. Well, now it is actually in my cabinet and I am actually using it. It even looks prettier than what I had in the cabinet before. The oddest identity thing that I kept, I also found that yesterday. I knew I had it. Two Pringles cans full of pop can flip top tab thingies. I used to hang them in a chain on my mom's refrigerator door. She never complained. She complained about a lot, but she never said a word about my chain. When I got married 45 years ago, I took them with me. I think they represented a side of my mom I wanted to hang onto. I didn't know if I would keep them when I found them, but yesterday I knew what I wanted to do. I think you can donate them to a cause. I think that would be a good way to honor my mom, instead of throwing them away.

[@helenstokoe4319]

My mum sewed and when she passed away, I had lots of ribbons, trims, buttons etc. I gave them to a textiles teacher at a local school. She really appreciated them to help her students so it was easier to let them go. I still have my mum's sewing machine though which my dad put into a sewing table he varnished. Can't let go of that yet 😔

[@MelindaPlainandSimple]

@@helenstokoe4319 As it turns out, my neighbor's mailbox got destroyed and we were able to give them one yesterday that we ended up not using. I hadn't met them yet because of the pandemic, but I was glad to help them out. Extra Bonus: I still get to see the mailbox. It was a Christmas gift from my parents back in 2006. We ended up moving and then not needing it in our new house. My parents are both gone now, and I had just mentioned to my husband the day before that I wanted to find someone who needed a mailbox. As I chatted with my neighbor, I learned that she sews blankets for babies in the neo-natal ward at the hospital. She has a whole room as a sewing studio and is interested in taking some or all of my fabric and my trims. Yay! I feel better knowing it will bless the babies and their families.

[@lindasokolnicki5286]

This reminded me of decluttering my triplets' bins and bins of dress up clothes and costumes years ago. Oh my gosh, pulling at my heartstrings. By the way I grew up loving Raggedy Ann and Holly Hobby. I still have my Raggedy Ann doll that was handmade by my mom.

[@RefreshwithDawn]

I still have my Holly Hobby doll (plus Barbie and Donny and Marie...). Sometimes I get the impulse to Buy a Raggedy Ann doll since I don’t have it anymore. 😉

[@jenniferrumsey9887]

Our Goodwill loves it when we bag up, label items, and attach them to each other. American girl doll accessories, drafting table with accessories, sheet size, etc. The employees are busy and have no idea what items go together unless they are bagged and labelled together.

[@rebeccaarcher5139]

Yay! One box!!! And no mess! Identity has changed-I remember the day I decided I was NOT “The Cross-Stitching Lady” anymore! (Evidently I’m not the Blue Jean Quilt Making Grandma either! I have bags and bags of bue jeans cut up for quilts but have never been sewn together!)

[@debbykidd9813]

My mother-in-law has made about 50 jean quilts over the years.

[@rebeccaarcher5139]

@@debbykidd9813 I always thought that I would do that! I want my grandkids and my great grandkids to know that I can sew! Even though I don’t do it anymore.

[@Marialla.]

Agreed! I was interested in quilt-making once upon a time, and still have all the stuff for it even though I have no real interest in making a quilt ever again. I still save a lot of the stuff, though, because it is useful for other kinds of sewing and crafts which I legitimately might want to use it for in the future. But tbh letting go of the self-image that "I am a quilter" was hard. I'm NOT a quilter, much. I'm a lady who kinda likes and appreciates quilts.

[@debbykidd9813]

@@Marialla. a local ladies or quilting club would be grateful for that donation!!

[@Marialla.]

@@debbykidd9813 TBH, there's not much from my old days of quilting that I'm not re-using in different crafts now. Mostly just books and magazines about quilting, that I no longer need. Still, even letting go of those was hard because I kept thinking I maybe would want them someday.

[@olivemaycards]

Love the doggo checking things out.

[@laurat7324]

Loved seeing the dog! And I LOL'd toward the end when you said, "Oh, it's gonna fit!"

[@myonlinepresence7833]

Gosh it's helpful to understand the thinking process behind decluttering. "Would I have remembered I owned this?" That one question is going to help me power through many crates of long-forgotten possessions.

[@brandycolmer7052]

OMG! The costume designer in me is cringing at how those items have been stored!! 😂 I can definitely relate to struggling with identity clutter. Some of those identities I have not let go of yet. I’m working on it. ❤

[@sabl6381]

Perfect timing, considering I've been emotionally battling some old journals and music gear in the basement. The first half of my life was wrapped up in the writer-musician identity.

[@jodi9295]

would it ever occur to me that i own that - is a great question to tackle my garage with. Thanks for the encouragement!

[@ladyjsunshine6325]

What a splendid gentle smack upside the head ! I needed this. I not only have a bin or two of costumes I NEVER use but I was saving toys that my children never even liked ! Thank you SO much. I have to question a few identities ( with love )... your hand drum is absolutely wonderful. I am so glad you kept it ♥

[@heathern.zapatamba4770]

Wow this one was soooo good! I love how you shared it all with us and pointed out that we dread some things because they relate to an identity from our past. Thank you! So inspiring.

[@kimhundl8994]

Oh my goodness!!! Holly Hobby was my favorite growing up! Even had the lunch box. My grandma made me a Holly Hobby outfit complete with the bonnet. Special memories!!

[@carrie-lynnsnee1675]

As a mom of 4 theatre kids, that video was so much fun to watch! I can totally relate! Thanks for sharing your wit and wisdom! 😁❤️

[@tamarapace3036]

"Better is better" "I'd never think that I had one" I too hear your voice! My dil-daughter n law, hears better is better too! Thank you Dana for the practical advice And for teaching our kids! My daughter majored in theater arts because of one of her drama teachers. She uses those skills in a 21st century job!

[@jamiecooley3426]

This video was very helpful. To watch you struggle with the doorbell...I felt it bad. It hurt. Thank you for taking us through it.

[@kalakady8]

As a costumer for my husband's school's musicals, I love this! I keep so much thinking I may need it for a costume some day. Thanks for this Dana!!!!

[@susanharter3945]

Thank you so much for reading my comment! I live for your videos! I have been emptying cabinets, drawers, and closets and sending pictures to my family to show my progress. Its kind of like accountability. They are also excited about the idea of my doing the Swedish death cleaning. It is personally a very freeing feeling! One of your best videos was the “better” one. It encouraged me to do at least something but not having to do everything! Or perfectly! Thank you again and keep of the good work! Bless you!

[@dianaa9864]

Aweeee the doggie !🥰 Such perfect company to declutter! ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@teacherstreet]

I had 7 tubs/boxes of coursework from my BA and MS in teaching. Now I’m homeschool mom of 6, and I don’t have time, desire, or need to look at it. I realized I was keeping it IN CASE… my husband passed away unexpectedly and I had to support our whole family by tutoring…? What?! I wouldn’t do that. I would find a different way of earning a living that I enjoy more. Making myself see why I had kept it was so critical to downsizing it.

[@user-sq3kk3wt8p]

Thank you for this inspirational video, and reality-check! You're the best! It's just what I needed at this time. I spent years in a job that I had a lot of training for, and still have so many boxes of books and materials from it, but I'm doing something different now. I've been holding on to the old materials "just in case" I have to return to that job; however, it's not who I am anymore. I've moved on. So, I've decided to donate or trash all of them now (and if I ever do need them again, most of that info is online anyway). Thank you for your encouragement and example!

[@rebeccam1027]

I just found 50-year-old crayons yesterday and degraded trolls, a dilapidated kid dryer. I was able to recycle 50-year-old stationary boxes with paper in them. Lots of stuffed animals that did not hold up. It was a good day! Trash and recycling are almost full.

[@taraschmidheini4674]

This was fabulous, you did awesome, & conquered an area most of us may have avoided forever if it weren't for this video.

[@itsacarolbthing5221]

This was very timely for me, as I am downsizing my massive, covers a king size bed make up collection into one medium sized vanity case.

[@ursulamoney203]

Well done! That's amazing.

[@queenofputrescence5167]

See, I would have looked at that bonnet and said, I have a Laura Ingalls bonnet! We are the same age, but Holly Hobby wouldn't have occurred to me!

[@newwife777]

Right?!?! I was like, you're doing Laura wrong!

[@saraphelan9408]

Laura Ingalls Wilder was my first thought as well.

[@dubosesjoy]

Thank you for making this video. I, too, am a drama teacher and have container after container of costumes and props-not to mention I have two little girls with all the dresses and two little boys with all the superhero capes and accessories for them all. They seriously have a walk in closet for their/my dress up clothes. Watching you talk this out and having no shame for the items you kept really helps me have courage to tackle my spaces. Thanks Dana!

[@nancydickerson7920]

I've stumbles across my best labeling tool, freezer tape (not masking tape) and a big marker. When I want to change the label, the tape comes off with the least amount of goo residue of anything else I've tried. I'm always changing my mind about what's in the bins, so being able to easily change the label works for me.

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

Great idea. There’s also a product called “low-tack masking tape.” Discovered it when I worked in advertising. Can seal paper envelope with it and reseal without issue. Leaves no residue either. Probably found in art supply stores.

[@edianegrubbs6748]

I love freezer tape, too! I mark my leftovers and date them. I kabel lotr of things on the lídr in bridge door...can identity at a glance. Reduces fridge clutter. Also use in freezer!LOL

[@edianegrubbs6748]

Sorry so sloppy

[@darleneh608]

I use 3x5 note cards, writing on them in bold magic marker, and then tape them onto the outside of my bins using clear boxing tape. The labels are bold, hard to miss and easy to read. The boxing tape covers the note card and protects it, and the tape peels off the bin easily when I'm done with it. I've used this method for years and never had them leave tape residue behind.

[@lewistonfootnotes]

Thank you so much for this video. I actually own a dance studio and keep everything in case we need it as a prop or costume! I am running out of room and now I can say I’m able to start going through and getting rid of the stuff that is getting in the way of doing my job better!

[@emmageisel8983]

Thank you for what you’re doing to help so many of us get life under control. Your container concept and de-cluttering questions have opened up the way for me to start making changes. I’ve been watching a ton of Dawn’s minimalism videos and Cass’ organization videos, but I wasn’t able to start making real progress at all beyond the pantry until I saw one of your videos on the container concept. My life and family are being changed because of you. Thank you so much. 💜💜💜

[@Samus419]

Going through memory stuff is hard. Thank you for this video!

[@lisamoss7632]

I have that same blue ruffly dress from when I was a little girl! Mine was red! Just found it at my parent's house. And no, I have not decluttered it...yet. 🤣

[@suzy1676]

This was a helpful experience. Facing items from my past identities will start i my closet & continue to my garage. Thank you for these tips on letting go 😊 💓

[@DP-dr6gi]

Just found you, and I’m sure glad I did ! My home is pretty decluttered now. But I am choosing to face the bins in my garage. The memorabilia, the clothes and the decor from another lifetime. I have cut it in about half. It took me about a week to do this because some of the stuff I had to actually feel the feelings as I was choosing to let it go. But, what a great sense of freedom once I took the 7 large bags to the donation store. Now, with this new question….I think I will be able to go through the remaining bins and perhaps even go back through the ones I’ve already decluttered and see what else I can set free!

[@beatrice4422]

I’m struggling with books in identity clutter. Books that were about careers I pursued and still identity with in my personal life but no longer feel professionally drawn to. Subject matter I find fascinating and I want to know more but yet I have so many books to read I’m not reading at all because its overwhelming to know where to start. I went to purge books today and got very emotional and stressed out. I really appreciate you doing a live decluttering of identity clutter. It was great to see you in action!

[@juliejackman2649]

We brought a huge box of already expired - yes already expired- spices from my mother in laws after she passed. It has sat in our hall untouched for 9 years and we finally 😬 just got rid if it. Yikes.

[@edianegrubbs6748]

Now that's progress! Good for you, and Dana you see how much good you are doing with your joviality and wisdom!

[@justinewhite-hadley3138]

I am moving right now, started yesterday, and have 2 weeks to finish. I easily have 30+ bins in one storage and another 20+ at my moms and yet another 25 or so in another storage. We are talking Decades of delayed descions. I'm terrified and it seems hard to breathe thinking about it. Thank you for posting this! I've got to start letting go!!

[@kmcq692]

I really appreciate the consciousness of how objects can be wrapped in Identity. Awesome. Used to hang in performance circles too. I am so AVOIDING looking at that stuff!!

[@celestewatson4874]

I really wanted to see put the costumes together with all the attendant parts, nicely folded, in a gallon ziploc, with a tag. Or pinned all together. SO the thrift store wouldn't separate the pieces.

[@wendymcgill7717]

For me it's horse stuff. Showed horses my entire childhood. So many great memories but I no longer need the outfits

[@lorrainerietz5112]

This is the most interesting declutter ever . great job passing on so much stuff

[@batkins406]

What's especially great about you donating these now is that these are going to be real scores for some people looking for Halloween costumes. You will have made several someone's day by the time that box gets redistributed to new homes. :D

[@ursulamoney203]

My thought exactly: perfect timing!

[@francesmclaren7881]

I found your methods to declutter encouraging and helps to keep me on track with stuff In my boxes that need to go. Thanks!

[@jessandjessica452]

Thank you for walking us through the process! You are so easy to relate to.

[@beccismith4454]

One thing I’ve saved and I think I still got in a box is my Girl Scout sash from the 1970s! With only a very few badges representing accomplishments that I achieved… Including cooking and sewing, I believe. Not a lot of meaning to me, but I kept thinking it be interesting to show people… I live abroad, so as a piece of American history etc.… I even have that cord that you put on your shoulder with the gold loops around, if you know what that is. and that little bit I’ve actually repurposed, now I have it hanging in my bathroom and barrettes are clipped onto it! Very practical 😀 I think when I get to that box again, that it may be able to go! Doesn’t really have any particular meaning to anyone except me and my mom perhaps, and certainly does not identify our relationship!

[@pennynorth955]

I’m laughing so much! It’s fun watching you go through this stuff! 🤣

[@messybunonabudget8773]

Great video! I love how you share your authentic self and the genuine reactions and thought process. Those little looks to the camera and your costar had me actually laughing not just “lol” :)

[@calliemyersbuchanan6458]

I used to be in the theatre dept too and my collection is crazy! I needed this video!!! And omg i have those striped socks!!! 😳

[@lizardlardy]

No wonder I like you you are my theatre people. I love your videos, so inspiring and realistic!

[@beckiblack859]

After we remodeled our house and bought new furniture, I couldn't let go of a blue buffalo check Broyhill settee. I'd wanted a settee five-ever, and I was not prepared to let it go. I put it in a storage container and it sat for 4 years. Then I started watching all these decluttering KZbin videos (yours, Minimal Mom, Clutterbug, Joshua Becker, etc.) and I was then able to let the settee go to the donation place. Feels so good.

[@mrsbettytracy6669]

Identities from the past I have stored; 400 plastic horses. Well, 30 of them are actually out on display. I just don't have room to display the rest so they are in storage ( in case I ever move and have room? Though they are such a pill to dust, I'm not sure I would). I am no longer a horse crazy girl. I'm a 54 year old mamma. I guess it's time to go find those boxes.

[@danielamestanek7899]

oh, that explains why i was thinking how amazingly funny and entertaining you are. talented for stage. well, duh. also, amazing coincidence couple of weeks ago i have finally decluttered and consolidated my past identity of a dancer with fire props (fire hoop, fire fans, poi, etc... and then the costumes - i have yet to declutter some of them).yes, you are right - took a big part of my basement, big part of my mental space, too. it was so hard to declutter as most of it was not easy to come by. and at the same time it was so liberating to get rid of some of it. and yes, once i got going it was easier. it really helped to apply the container concept. thank you!

[@tonia.5861]

“Don’t tell my landlord”🤣🤣🤣

[@laurataylor2106]

It was good to watch this process. The stuff would fit in the bin better if it were folded (that's my OCD talking!) It has started me thinking about some of the bins in my garage that have been with me for over a decade and I dont think Ive ever purged anything from them. I have sewing supplies and notions probabably from the 1990's that I know I'll never use. I remember that I "had something" like what Im looking for and go through boxes until I do or dont find it. Would really be happy with less stuff. Thats my project for this coming weekend!

[@julielundberg354]

I really appreciate that you are so still so genuine and have a great sense of humor. 😊

[@pwatkins2764]

I have enjoyed this video so much. Seeing you go from hesitant to go go is so inspirational. I’m a note taker. So many note books/ journals. Time to go through and purge.

[@mary-annz.reynolds7778]

That was good I have so much identity clutter. I keep putting it out of my mind. I'm scared to go thru it.

[@lindalarson5468]

Identity clutter IS A THING! Past marriage pictures. Can't face getting rid of them let along going through them and it has been 17 years. I have a problem. I used to be incredibly horsey. Very difficult getting rid of all my horse stuff: tack, clothes, trophies, blah blah blah. College papers! College text books! It list goes on and on.

[@lindamcdermott5475]

Identity clutter! I don’t have bins, I have cubes, way too many cubes, filled with my fantasy self things. I’ve decluttered them, repeatedly. Most are just 1/2 full. I’m an artist, I’ve narrowed down to just doing watercolor, but still have more supplies than I need or will use. I have cubes with sewing tools and 3 UFOs (unfinished objects) -quilts. I am in a season of life that I want to pare down, but afraid I will want to do something creative at some point. I did successfully detach myself from mountains of fabric….. very hard to do…but kudos to me for doing it. Watching you go through those bins was inspiring. I am constantly decluttering, and making regular trips to the donation center, yet there always seems to be more to get rid of…… as I think of it, I’m 74, I don’t think I need a drill, bits, ratchet set, saw and miter box…… in my storage/clothes closet. Your suggestion of decluttering fantasy self items is inspiring! Thank you!!!

[@kevinbrownguitar]

My three year old watched for a minute or two and said, "Mama, I think that she's taking things out that she doesn't need and then taking them to goodwill." haha. I wonder what I've been talking about nonstop lately?

[@followin_Jesus]

A year ago my 5 year old asked me if she could keep her favorite toy, I think she was scared there wasn't going to be anything left in the house and didn't want to loose the "Elsa guitar" lol

[@MostlyCaffeinated]

You are NOT the only one. I have also been a theater teacher and love/hoard props and costumes. 😁😁😁

[@christinaparker5594]

This is exactly what I needed to see TODAY ... thank you!