Decluttering Methods that ACTUALLY WORK!

[@aflourishingplace]

Thanks for being here, friends! Leave in the comments below any decluttering methods that have been helpful for you. I always love more ideas! :)

[@minaz2816]

I’ve listened to several of the professional organizers on KZbin over the last year as inspiration and support for my own decluttering journey. I definitely prefer focusing on one small area at a time. I’ve let go of hundreds of items this way while being very CAREFUL not to shop mindlessly. That’s a key point….lots leaving, less coming in. My home is so relaxing and beautiful for sticking to this method.

[@aflourishingplace]

Yes! Lots leaving, less coming in. That is totally the key right there! 😊

[@pamhiers6087]

I too do this method best. Immediately rewarding. Can walk away any time.

[@LovePiha]

Another hack, especially for procrastination, is to create a decluttering/organising ritual. Light a candle, listen to a podcast, wear specific clothes, listen to music, all these things will become a habit that, in time, will help kick you into gear at a time you least feel like getting started. :)

[@aflourishingplace]

This is so good, it’s all about getting into the habit. Love it! 😊

[@winterlite3243]

⚡️This is an excellent idea! I will definitely do this next time I work on “the guest room” aka my storage closet/mess 🫣🙃

[@kimkoon4690]

What a great idea!

[@CatherineHurley-wk8ef]

So true! The declutter guru I've followed since before You Tube started (!) also teaches a 20/10 method. Her advice is to stop thinking about decluttering in those 10-minute breaks. The mind rests completely, giving you more energy for the next 20-min. declutter. This way, I can declutter for 3 to 4 hours with no feeling of overwhelm - and I can now enjoy the occasional bout of cleaning out the cupboards 🙂

[@curban616]

I am also in that season of life. I am soon to be 69 and I remember when my sisters and I had to go through my mom’s house when she passed..it was so overwhelming. I now think about what my kids would have to do if/when I pass. I really don’t want them to have to go through what we did. It really helps with the decluttering.

[@aflourishingplace]

Oh man, this is so true. ❤️

[@StaceyMilo2011]

I'm going to have to do this soon. My mom passed last week I'm not looking forward to going through her things. The emotional tug of war is going to be rough.

[@carmaela2689]

I am 41 but I think about this too. My parents were baby boomers and they had SO MUCH STUFF. I know those things told the story of their life but it was a lot to deal with. I tell my kids all the time "it's just stuff". I don't want them burdened.

[@shana3355]

​@@StaceyMilo2011 I'm so sorry about your mom. My mom passed two years ago. It was only this year that I found it in me to really start decluttering, letting go little by little. In the beginning I did have to because of family pressure but it was extremely rough. No one should have to be told to let go immediately. Give yourself grace, give yourself time. I'm still having to go slow, and need breaks. One thing I did/do that may help : if i don't have memories of it(sentimental value), and if it doesn't have any use or value , then it can be let go and its easier to start there

[@ArtyAntics]

I have adhd and chronic illness. Im an ex hoarder & artist. If I pick things that spark joy everything is an art project, anything that means stopping and leaving the room *squirrel* ain’t happening. This is what decluttered my hoarder house… every time I get up to pee/drink I scooped up 1 box of stuff. I sat on my bed watching TV (reward) and sorted the box with 2 questions. If I had to move out today, would I pay to move it? Can I live without this?If there is a no and a yes… trash. Husband takes the bag out for me. Done

[@aflourishingplace]

That is a fantastic system for decluttering, I love it!! ❤️

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

Good job❣️ Going at your own pace is so important - I have to make sure there is more going out than coming in and “check” myself when it comes to that. Thank you for sharing @ArtyAntics

[@heatherdavidson8801]

THAT'S AWESOME and the way to do it! Good for you (seriously).

[@FlowerPowerWV]

I really like the pay to move it question! Thanks

[@timinou6764]

That is great info! My son has inattentive ADHD and I will definitely share with him and do the "bodydouble " in helping him until he gets used to it 😌

[@louphillips5928]

at 82, I thought I had tried them all. We have down-sized twice in the past 2 years and are now in the smallest space of my adult life. Minimalista (which I never heard of) speaks to my need to make space for books, yarn, and exercise. Thank you.

[@nunya257]

One of Dana K White’s most important points is you have to ask yourself when decluttering, “Where would I look for this if I needed it?” And put it there.

[@effiecross2008]

I really like Dana White, and I think that question has helped me more than anything. It is so wonderful to be able to have an idea where to go to find most things when you need them.

[@bethjeans3780]

Dana K. White: where would I look for this first? Take it there now. (Obviously you can’t always do that depending on your health or other factors.) And if you actually would not look for it? You can donate it. BTW, I’ve noticed even if there’s no clutter or very little, I’ve caught myself procrastinating by not putting it away, taking it there now. And that negatively builds on itself. You don’t do one thing, then one more, then another and bam - piles.

[@timinou6764]

Yes! I like that .

[@curban616]

A place for everything and everything in its place.

[@katie7748]

Yes! Every time we've moved into a new place, I have things that I just don't know where to put. The place we're in now, especially, I struggled with that. Rearranged kitchen cabinets and drawers multiple times before settling.

[@shelleycharlesworth5177]

My home and all possessions burned in a wildfire in 2007. All my old family photos-my wedding photos-all the things my husband and I collected throughout our [ at that time 43 year marriage]. We had good insurance and rebuilt. I had insurance $$ to shop and buy clothes/shoes/purses/household goods/furniture and I over bought. % years later my husband died and I shopped and bought clothing as a distraction for my grief. A year ago I began taking things to a re-sale non-profit but I have so much more to do! I HAVE GOT to declutter faster! Last night, I wrote down 9 areas in my home that need decluttering and am glad I came across your informative video.

[@mrwiggiewoo]

Something that helps me to organize and declutter without getting overwhelmed: I pick a particular spot that's packed or out of control, say my clothes closet with way too many clothes. I look at and touch each piece of clothing just briefly. I don't take much time or think about it much but clothes that stand out to me that I have not worn or need mending or I don't like anymore , I just pick out and put them in the "discard"pile. It would take me 5 or 10 minutes. I don't remove all my clothing from the closet I just look at each piece and remove what I don't want or need. That's all I do for that session. Than maybe the next day I do the same thing and put a little more thought and discernment as I eliminate a few more things. My next session, I look again and I have usually elimated at least 1/3 of the clothes and now I have room to organize the closet. The key for me is to not overthink it and to spend no than 10 minutes at a time. I do this with other areas, too, like kitchen cabinets, ultility closets ect. It works for me as I can get overwhelmed easily. Also, I don’t have to put it off if I only have a small amout of time because it's done in short sessions.

[@marybusch6182]

Very nice. I find myself deciphering organizing when I cant find something or I know it's too messy.

[@aflourishingplace]

This sounds like such a good system, thank you for explaining it! A wonderful cure for being overwhelmed with the decluttering process! 😊

[@evasochocki5209]

I just started the 20/10 method a few days ago and for me, this is it. I use it for cleaning as well as decluttering, and the progress I've made in just a few days is amazing. And all without feeling overwhelmed ! It's been like a miracle for me. And if you're tired, it doesn't have to be 20/10 . You can make it 15/10 or 10/10 if you want to ,and still make a lot of progress.

[@aflourishingplace]

That’s fantastic! 😃

[@Xiroi87]

That method is also great when you don't know where to start or feel tired, unmotivated. The mindset is you surely can give it 10 minutes, that gets you started, which is often the worst part.

[@evasochocki5209]

@@Xiroi87 I agree

[@1sweetGApch]

@@Xiroi87 Are we related…I can relate to your entire post!! ❤

[@Xiroi87]

@@1sweetGApch lol the struggle is real!

[@dyanalayng5507]

"Sink Reflections" had a good method too. I set my timer for 30 minutes on to stay in one room and sort, then 30 minutes to rest, read a book etc. The time permission to work / not work is so useful. Still downsizing in a 410 sq ft seniors apt... really helpful to have a Goodwill down the street.

[@aflourishingplace]

Love “Sink Reflections” 😊

[@cherylking1459]

I have tried several of these. Dana's take it there now and procrasticlutter have been very helpful. Getting my habits back to maintain has been a struggle. My goal is not to declutter. My goal is to love the way my house looks when I get up and when I come home from work. No yuck, no oh no what a mess what a disaster. I want to fall in love with my home again. I think I will check out Minimalista. Not a total minimalist but I don't like tons of things everywhere. That is overwhelming for me. We all have to find what works for just us. Trial and error and lots of patience on our journeys.

[@solarhydrowind]

Julie Morgenstern's book Organizing from the Inside Out has great chapters, some early ones about maybe the paychology behind keeping way too much stuff, and middle chapters about her SPACE method: Sort, Purge, Assign a home, Containerize, Equalize (check up on every so often). She explains why doing those steps in that order works very well!

[@aflourishingplace]

This sounds like a great book, I’ll have to check it out! Thanks! 😊

[@cherryghost15]

I've loved her books, too; and after reading and doing and rereading, I've found her methods just come naturally wherever I am! ☺️

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

Truly that book is an oldie but goodie. 😍

[@mindymudge7247]

I have done several methods but i like Danas no mess method because I suffer from being overwhelmed so taking everything out (i thought was only way) never works cause i always get stopped before finished. I enjoyed your video, great job. I am a biggest fan of Dana K White, Dawn the minimal mom and Cas Clutterbug

[@aflourishingplace]

Her method is so awesome!

[@trumax33]

Dana K. White's No Mess method works for anyone, but is super helpful for those of us who tend to get sidetracked and/or don't have a lot of time to devote to decluttering. She does talk about defining the space/room as you approach decluttering it. This way you know what stays and what needs to go to another room....or out the door!

[@aflourishingplace]

Yes, that defining is so important! 😊

[@Charlotte-ow3vi]

I seem to have done the best with the no mess method. After needing to downsize to move into a retirement phase of life, I realized it was too confusing and frustrating to declutter multiple things at a time. Picking up one single thing in whatever spot my gaze happened to rest on and deciding if I was keeping it and where it should be instead kept the process focused and I could stop at any time without a mess to put back.

[@aflourishingplace]

This is true that it helps with focus. Well said! 😊

[@feedakie]

I'm 73 y.o. Always had a house in order but lately I feel that I must get rid of things that are no longer essential to my retired life. We are only two in my 7 rooms, 2 bathrooms house. Dear hubbie is still working so I most often then not am in charge of keeping the house tidy. So, what I feel better for my season of life are the No mess Method (Dana K. White) and the 20/10. Without being aware of this last method, I already kind of practice it. I would take 15 minutes of cleaning, or decluttering, and then 10 minutes of "me time" and then go back to my task. I find it less stressful and more enjoyable. Many thanks.

[@aflourishingplace]

Yes, I think it really does help with the stress and overwhelm to do it in small chunks! And then it’s great to have a reward to look forward to, of course! 😃

[@curban616]

I am also in that season of life. I am soon to be 69 and I remember when my sisters and I had to go through my mom’s house when she passed..it was so overwhelming. I now think about what my kids would have to do if/when I pass. I really don’t want them to have to go through what we did. It really helps with the decluttering.

[@CatherineHurley-wk8ef]

@@curban616 I'm your age, and yes, "putting your house in order" becomes a thing for us. Margareta Magnusson's "The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning" (sounds morbid, but it's not!) talks about ways of organizing and labeling possessions to help your next of kin process things quickly, and honor your wishes. It's a beautiful, practical little book, very easy to read.

[@jillychandler]

I have Subscribed to you, and given you a thumbs up. I also follow Clutter bugs, and am a butterfly, which means I like to see my things out that I love, so could never live in a minimalist way, but I live in a small home, where the downstairs is totally open plan as one room, so there is a tiny kitchen, and a sitting room, and a small space where a dining table could go. The front door opens directly into this, so any mess is very visible! I have also tried the other methods that you suggested, and have books on the subject, and they all help in their own ways, but I find it is hard when you live alone, and have no one to call on for help - I live alone with my rescue greyhound Madge. I can not afford to get anyone else to help me, and do not have a car, live in a rural isolated spot, and only go out of the house to walk Madge, and take my rubbish to the end of the lane, due to my sever anxiety about leaving the house. I live on my pension, as I am 67 years young, and have no spare cash to get folk to come and take away things I want to donate, and I have tried getting the charity shop to come and pick up the things from me, but they have so few resources, that they can not do this. But I am gradually selling some bits on my local face book page, which is a free site, and folk can come and pick the items up from me. I will get there one day, and everything gone, is another good thing. Thanks for your video, and I shall be following you. Blessings from Jilly & Madge the rescue greyhound, from a sunny West Devon, England. xxx

[@aflourishingplace]

Every small step is progress. Blessings to you and Madge and thanks for subscribing! 😊

[@katie7748]

Love Clutterbug! I am mostly a Cricket, but for certain things being one of the other bugs works better.

[@MichelleGreenwood-f5i]

I love Dana’s method it has helped me enormously and is especially good when helping others to declutter - the question “ if I needed this item where would I look for it first “ is fantastic - I also love the rule don’t put it down put it away

[@aflourishingplace]

Yes, so effective when helping others!

[@Jules-740]

This video gets GOLD! 🏅 It puts all these methods in a nutshell and so clear!

[@aflourishingplace]

Hey, thanks so much! 😁

[@kathygreer2097]

I’m surprised and disappointed you didn’t mention the FlyLady method. I started it many years ago and found it worked for me. My home became neater and cleaner quickly. I still use it to some extent every day. You get into certain habits and routines that enable you to keep your home neat and clean much more easily. Three fave sayings of hers: go shine your sink; you can’t clean clutter; you can do anything for 15 minutes.

[@aflourishingplace]

So good! 😊

[@katl6426]

I had her books & her gorgeous feather duster! After all these years, her insistence on shining the sink before bedtime is still a voice 8n my head every night 😂

[@CatherineHurley-wk8ef]

@@katl6426 The FlyLady is great! I even got my husband on board with "clean the sink before you go to bed", and "dress to shoes every morning". Once I take off the slippers, and put on the sneakers, my brain knows that I mean business.

[@kerrybh4625]

Same!!

[@StaringCompetition]

Dana’s the one that works for me. But I need some organisational infrastructure and ideas to intercept the problem areas

[@lindahenry6168]

My declutter was based on do I want to keep dusting knick knacks or reduce them and do I really need it. My house is tiny.

[@aflourishingplace]

Oh man, yes! This was a big consideration for me, as well!

[@homeschoolonadime]

Dana’s method works so well when you have little ones do the running back and forth for you!

[@aflourishingplace]

It is so true! 😁

[@carol622]

Thanks for your video. I listen to decluttering videos when I'm doing my morning routine. My preferred decluttering method is what I learned from my mother. She Was an executive secretary for a large company. She wrote down the target goals that needed to be done and /the routines for every day were make the bed( before she went to work) Children made their own beds when old enough. Her most memorable organization I ever learned from her was put things back where you got it from after using it. You didn't just use the scissors and leave them where you last used them . Dishes were loaded into the dishwasher or washed by hand after EVERY meal. No sink had dishes in it when we went to bed . She looked over the living room before going to bed and anything that didn't belong in the living room was put away. She didn't procrastinate cleaning out or house work. She had leisure time and always knew where everything was . My problems with decluttering is Procrastination. I know what to do but get distracted by interruptions or daily necessary chores. I'm recently just decluttering obvious things when I'm using that room...old makeup when I'm putting on makeup. Expired food when I'm in the kitchen. But I use no more than 5 to 10 minutes. I could never clean out by dumping out everything on the floor. It's a recipe for disaster for me.

[@MyCozyLife-Lisa]

You did a great job explaining and summarizing each of the different methods. Thank you😊

[@aflourishingplace]

You bet, I’m so glad you enjoyed it! 😊

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

Agree 👍🏻

[@vivianhudacek1556]

Dana K White is my gal! So many times I’ve dragged out a ton of stuff, only to get tired or interrupted, then wine up with an even bigger mess. I also advocate the 20/10 method.

[@samk4507]

The ending of this video was so useful alongside the varied methods to select from the rest of the video. My season of life means I am constantly interrupted with minis. The No mess method suits me. Yet I will now visualise my ideal for each space too. XXX

[@aflourishingplace]

I’m so glad it was useful! 😊

[@vaniateixeira6557]

No mess Method combined with the 20/10 🤩🥰

[@aflourishingplace]

Love it

[@lisaahmari7199]

Apparently, the brain processes clutter as "MUST DO URGENTLY" because it is a "problem" that needs an "actionable solution" continuously right in front of your eyes. But since we have no time to solve the problem, we shove it out of our consciousness. That is why it is so incredibly stressful to have clutter consistently in our lives: you are adding THIS humming stress on top of all our other "urgently must be done" things in our brains. It can feel overwhelming SO quickly, especially to those with ADHD/creatives. We have such horrible executive function skills to begin with.

[@aflourishingplace]

This is such a good explanation!

[@lisaahmari7199]

I was glad when I saw it because it explained so much. It actually made it easier for me to not let clutter build because I would just keep repeating "the brain will process clutter as stress, so put it away now. We do NOT need more stress!" That is LESS stressful than watching it pile!😅​@aflourishingplace

[@Widdowson2020]

Truth

[@ArtisticEclectic]

I appreciate the reminder to Clarify, as we can lose sight over time to our true "why," and maybe just have a general idea that things are too messy or whatever. But maybe "less messy" isn't motivational enough. Or just clear enough. Less messy might mean removing 5 or 10% of the items from a space. Depending on what's decided through getting Clarity (going back to how you actually want the space to function and feel) could mean that, or that you need to remove 90% of the stuff from a space. Or that... Meanwhile, as a writer, Edit makes seeks to me in conjunction, as you might leave it edit or very different amounts of information, etc., from a document or speech, depending on the audience, the event (including finished length), and the specific topic or goal chosen. What remains after an edit for a 5-minute speech to adults, a 5-minute talk for kids or a 2-hour lesson to adults would each be very different. Lastly, I'm very much a Dana K. White No Mess Declittering girl. While Konmari sounds nice, I'd be overwhelmed and worse off, losing gusto and losing ground. But Dana makes so much sense with her two questions and take-it-there-now approach, making progress and only progress, whether a little or a lot.

[@lynnfox8376]

I use a mixture, daily the no mess. 5 minutes while you make a hot drink is great as you are rewarded with the drink. At least weekly a mini core of a small area combined with tidying cleaning, but the one that makes the most impact is a full core, especially if you clear a whole room, is to deep clean, and, or, redecorate and only put back what you really want and need using minimalist, koni mari and 2010 combined. If you can organise things into groups and put them away out of sight, displaying only a few chosen pieces it helps. You can always rotate these. Square things up and group colours to make more look less. Notice what you actually use and need and how long it's likely to last. Work out what you could use instead if you don't keep it. Store replacements logically so you don't forget and buy more.

[@susanciaburrilamarca7824]

I’ve watched a million videos to find the perfect solution to finally declutter, purge and organize, I’m still searching but I love this video and how down to earth you are! I don’t feel like I’m listening to a collage lecture while thinking, I could never achieve what they’re talking about! Hard to explain but I just wanted to tell you, I’m subscribing to your channel, you actually make everything you explain, obtainable and just have a relatable & calming way.. Thank you!

[@aflourishingplace]

Thank you so much, that is so encouraging to hear! 😊

[@gayemcnair6450]

I use Dana White's method sometimes and it is very helpful AND I get my steps in 😂 I also like the Minimalist Mom, Dawn, and Cas from Clutterbug. Even though I am FAR from a minimalist, I have found Dawn to be very inspirational in getting rid of clutter! Thanks for these new ideas! I'll do the 20/10 today!

[@lisaolson1345]

Not mentioned in your video but swedish death cleaning has been a game changer for me and also if I were to move would I take this with me.i have purged so much stuff this summer with just these two methods.

[@aflourishingplace]

Oh man, so good! 😃 I want to dig into Swedish Death Cleaning more! These are great methods. 👍

[@Cazzie4ever]

@@aflourishingplace It's great for when your parents get older, so they don't leave loved ones with a ton of decisions and work.

[@nicholebryant7359]

I’m down to declutterring the overwhelming “little” stuff, the 20/10 has been slow but helpful.

[@Jojotonks]

@@Cazzie4ever I’m trying to persuade my hoarder husband of this. We’re 80 and t’s not fair to burden our children, especially when one of them lives a few hundred miles away. I’m not bad at decluttering, although I have particular things I haven’t been able to let go - travel guides for places I’ve been to, certain non-fiction books, antique ornaments inherited from my parents. My husband has jars of rusty nails, scissors (12 pairs) dozens of pencils and felt tips and artists’ paint brushes he doesn’t use, old tools mixed in with good, useful tools and much much more. (He has even rescued things from the dustbin that I have thrown out -my things, not his). They’re in his work room so don’t clutter up the house, but they will be a real headache for our children.

[@denisedorsey2889]

@@Jojotonks Unfortunately if you leave the declutterring to your children once you pass or are unable to make decisions on your own at some stage, they will be so burdened that they may just hire someone to haul it all away. It’s your responsibility as the owner of stuff to manage it. My late husband was holding onto things his mother had saved. I have had to be ruthless and purge it. Some things hadn’t been stored properly and so were ruined. I’m determined that my kids won’t have to go through this again when I am gone. It is a gift to them.

[@marion2687]

No mess method here. Didn't know were I would be without it. Especially with small kids.

[@aflourishingplace]

For sure!! 😊

[@elizabethcallihan9971]

Love Dana K White 's book. Decluttering at the speed of life. ❤

[@aflourishingplace]

It’s so good!

[@bb_lz9790]

Great video, thanks for sharing!!! My wife doesn't seem the least bit bothered with clutter. It's in every single room of our home, in the yard, the plantings in the landscaping, the car, etc. It surely bothers me though. To be fair, I'm far from perfect, but every time I try to do something with an item that is "ours", she defends it like it's hers and won't let me touch it. This even extends to items (tea set, dishes) given to me by my parents when they downsized. On a positive note, I just put Minimalista on hold at my local library!

[@aflourishingplace]

Thanks for watching! And I hope you love the book! 😊

[@dawnburdick6602]

My husband is the same. We haven't used a certain table in a decade or more. Things get piled on it and under it. I want to get it out. He says "No that's mine." I said "We bought that together." Hello?! Ugh I probably could have removed it without saying anything, but I was trying to include him. He probably wouldn't have noticed. 😢

[@bb_lz9790]

@@aflourishingplace Minimalista is a great book!!!

[@castlequay2327]

my husband's idea of decluttering is to point at my stuff - not his. Maybe you could claim a room as yours and keep what makes you happy in there.

[@bb_lz9790]

@@castlequay2327 I have an area in our finished basement where my stuff goes.

[@StacySanseverino]

Cas the Clutterbug identifies 4 styles of organizational preferences which, on w you know which you are, would be super helpful after you declutter to help you maintain

[@SuzySylvania]

I love that you put all of these methods into one video! I have tried them all! For me it is very dependent on the room or area I am decluttering. I am a huge fan of Dana K White and her no mess method. She describes herself so incredibly well and that helps me to relate to her. Sometimes I use Conmarie for specific categories. I’ve used the Home Edit in some spaces and that makes my heart swoon! I will add the 20/10 to any method I am using.

[@aflourishingplace]

It makes so much sense that it would be location specific! Love that approach! 😊

[@katie7748]

Same here! Dana's works fantastic for certain things for me, others not so much. And for things where it doesn't work as well, I still do garbage first, then the take it there now and duhs. The only part I omit in these instances is not taking everything out. Sometimes I NEED to see it ALL at a glance. It's still incredible and I wish I'd thought of it myself eons ago. Could've saved me so much agony.

[@sherryruddell3588]

I have ended up doing some major cleaning out of my china cabinet and music shelf and cabinet. I threw away some old music, put a pile away, and have two boxes of china and other things that are going to Goodwill. Why? Because we are having hardwood floors put down , today, in our dining room and music room. I'm so excited! The floor people even put felt pads on all of my furniture, in those rooms. I have new area rugs to put down....one under the baby grand piano, and an 8x10 in the dining room, under the table. I put a new lamp shade on our lamp. My hubby said, "wow! That makes it look a lot more modern!"

[@aflourishingplace]

I love it! Enjoy your new floors! 😊

[@stephsmemo]

You explained Dana’s system well. I didn’t fully understand why she would take the item to the place she would look for it. That makes sense-if you have very little time , it works perfectly

[@aflourishingplace]

Sure does!

[@junerenfer8211]

January 24 I decided I would fill a bag a week to donate, give to "someone" or throw away. I've stuck to it and have even had two bags some weeks. One week bedroom closet, another week kitchen stuff never used and so on. My husband joined in and we have made great headway. Now the bag may not be filled in two or three weeks however we will continue until we are at the point we feel comfortable wth our "stuff" in our home.

[@TheVideoGamesHistorian]

In my mid 50s now and I find the Kon Marie method is ideal for my home . Having collected so much stuff over the years I find that going through say all the bedding in one big pile helps . Same with clothes and books . Helps me focus on what I need to get rid of .

[@aflourishingplace]

That totally makes sense! 😊

[@christybaum]

I just found your channel and it is what I needed. Thank you . Today is a massive get my life back day. My house is in horrible condition. I will be listening to you today .

[@aflourishingplace]

I’m so glad. You can do it! 😊🙌

[@jennyjenkins877]

I've just used the onion method and peel away more and more layers as I'm ready.

[@aflourishingplace]

Oh yeah! I’ve used that too and it is SO good! 😊

[@JiZd-xj1ok]

20/10 or 15/5 (for those of us with Task avoidance 😩) Yes!!! using a timer . Stop !!! Take a break . Get out of the room get some water, tea, coffee, play w pet. Then go back! ☺ Repeat.

[@aflourishingplace]

Love it 😊

[@janmorrison4141]

I love Julie Morgenstern's Organizing From the Inside Out. Works for everything including organizing and decluttering your schedule. I've tried lots of different ways and they all have their season but Julie's method sticks with me. It is very psychological. As im a psychotherapist, writer and artist perhaps that is why it endures for me. I really appreciate analyzing the why of our spaces or the 'clarify' as you say!

[@aflourishingplace]

I need to check that out! 😊

[@StaringCompetition]

Clarify, edit, organise, elevate, maintain I struggle with the 1st, 4 th and last the most

[@ablanccanvas]

Really helpful that you shared a number of decluttering strategies for different circumstances. That’s honest, helpful + compassionate for creating decluttering success. Thank you. 😌✨♥️✨👍🏽✨🇨🇦

[@aflourishingplace]

You bet, thanks for watching! 😊

[@vickiemckinney1004]

At this stage of my life I am better off to pick a cabinet or drawer and declutter a little at a time.

[@aflourishingplace]

It’s so effective! 😊

[@beckyshell4649]

I do this also .I have a list of things that I must do everyday like make bed ,dishes,etc . One of my things is a small organize ,often a random drawer . When you do it everyday ,all of the small scattered,random bits add up. When you decide to do a big room clean and declutter it ends up being just a fast reset .

[@catherinedandrea4733]

Dana K White's method is brilliant

[@aflourishingplace]

It really is!

[@katie7748]

Yes! I don't use it for everything but what I do use it for...boy oh boy is it LIFE-CHANGING!!

[@anntrope491]

Thank you for all these great decluttering tips !! I’m overwhelmed, but don’t want to leave my kids all my stuff… my house is full of other peoples stuff too… my brother, my mother , my kids, their exes…& I’m a collector of “things I might need someday “, crafting items I’m going to get to when I’m retired… tools, books, etc… I have family coming in a couple months …I have to get a handle on this !! It keeps me awake at night !!

[@aflourishingplace]

My pleasure. You can do it! One step at a time, one day at a time. You’re not alone and you’ve got this! 😊

[@anntrope491]

@@aflourishingplace Thank you for your encouragement,& support !🦋

[@christinab9808]

I had closets full of other people’s stuff too. Not any more 👌🏼

[@beckyboo1433]

All great methods 😁 I generally follow Dana the most, Flylady Kat, the tidy tutor Kathy Roberts and Clutterbug ❤️

[@aflourishingplace]

Good ones! 😊

[@michellerob80]

I thank you so much. This video hits right on point. I think the idea of 20/10 is superb.

[@aflourishingplace]

You bet! 😊

[@luciepaul1270]

Thanks for your insights on this subject. It is food for thought. I think I will start with the 20/10 method. It seems to be the least stressful.

[@aflourishingplace]

Yeah! A short time span always feels less stressful to me! 😊

[@kellycrowl1500]

Glad I stopped by today! It was worth it, thank you!❤

[@aflourishingplace]

I’m so glad! 😃

[@kathleenclarke828]

Just heard about having another body in the room-either actively helping or simple BEING there as a supportive person-maybe reading a book. I've tried all kinds of methods-and in 5 years (in a house a family grew and left) great progress is evident. Yet there is so much more....endless but no longer daunting.

[@aflourishingplace]

Amen! Endless but no longer daunting. 🙌

[@annalockwood3021]

A thought that helps me is to remember my grandmother’s homes. They both lived for decades in the same house, one huge, one less so. Both had dedicated spaces for storage that were well organized and maintained. Both had space for visitors to visit, eat and sleep. Homes seem generally smaller now (and both of those old houses are completely gone now, more’s the pity), but I do think about the ways they organized and managed their spaces as I live in my home. Their restful but practical homes were an excellent example of how to make use of the spaces you have and living out the span of your life within your means.

[@aflourishingplace]

Thank you for sharing this! 😊

[@janeb3024]

I used a variation of the 20/10 method to kickstart a large organizing challenge. Fifteen minutes of sorting then a cup of tea from the pot I prepared before beginning this process. Repeat. I was surprised by how much I accomplished in a reasonable amount of time.

[@robinzucker2621]

Very informative video. I like how you shared various approaches along with bigger ideas. Thank you!!

[@aflourishingplace]

You bet, thanks for watching! 😊

[@robinzucker2621]

@@aflourishingplace I already tried the "where would I look for this" approach...fantastic!

[@christineanthony1310]

No mess method for sure!

[@aflourishingplace]

It’s such a good one! 😊

[@1sweetGApch]

This video is just what I absolutely needed today!! You popped up out of nowhere. Now, I’m subscribed, with all notifications on. I’ve also shared with a few others…that know the struggle is real!!!! I don’t know about any of you, but I live with the “Progress Police Chief”, the hubs. Need I say more? 🙄 *20/10 (maybe 30/10), will be my go to for today. IMO, it addresses setting a realistic goal to start with. *My new normal/mindset, has to be…regular maintenance will help make me successful at maintaining. Thanks again❣️

[@aflourishingplace]

I’m so glad it was helpful! 😊 What a great mindset there you mentioned…regular maintenance really is so key. Thanks for being here!

[@GenelleSmay]

I am definitely the one that doesn't get done and I force myself to put the stuff on my bed. EEEKKK! So I can work a small area and get done now and feel successful!! Thank you so very much, I'm 73 and I never was taught to organize. 😊

[@aflourishingplace]

You’re not alone! 😊

[@MagicOfHorses9706]

I've been trying to do by category...have to start by room tho as there are too many "mixed" categories in every room. I so want to be more organized and live a minimalist life. Been donating things to my neighbor, she loves getting things from me lol, she does the same to declutter her space and gives things she doesn't want anymore to one of her friends. Recycling at it's best! ☺ I only need 2 plants, not 10!! Lol. Great video, thanks 🧘‍♀️💜

[@aflourishingplace]

You bet, thanks for watching! 😊

[@GumboGirl13]

My best approach to decluttering is from Dana K White. I get overwhelmed easily but with her method, I can do a small amount and still have progress. She is brilliant as far as I’m concerned. Thank you for your video. I just found you. New sub!

[@aflourishingplace]

Thank you so much! 😊 Agreed, Dana K White is fantastic!

[@mindymudge7247]

Also as I have gotten older (65 now) I don't want my kids to deal with my mess when I'm gone so important for me to keep working on getting toatal decluttered so just have to maintain. I loved the Swedish death cleaning/declutter. I just take pictures of what i think my kids want and ask them please take now or I will donate. I do keep/store some items for them as I still want to enjoy them.

[@aflourishingplace]

This makes so much sense! 😊

[@L_MD_]

❤❤ that’s the best gift you could give them … having to deal with your loss plus the stress of what to throw out / donate / let go of after you’re gone.

[@connieverbeck1110]

😅oops lost my post. Hope this isn’t a repeat. I am currently going through my house one room at a time. I am deep cleaning decluttering and organizing as I go. Slow progress, but progress is the same. Currently, I am dealing with a large collection of laces and trims. I have had two containers in my dining room for over a year. Feels great to finally tackle them. Currently I am dealing with the white and neutral laces. Almost done ironing them. Dividing them into width sizes. Then I will put them on cardboard in an organized fashion. All the colored laces are washed and waiting. We’ll deal with them when the white and neutrals are done. Slow going, but progress just the same. Ready to move on to the next job. That of totally reorganizing my sewing room. Has been a long time and really looking forward to the finished results onward and upward. Take care.

[@aflourishingplace]

This is awesome, way to go!! 😃🙌

[@laurenvonduyke-dadmun9928]

I'm so glad that I discovered this video and your channel! The No Mess method is just what I need and what I've been doing today and this video was my 10 min. break! (I didn't know that the No Mess method or 20-10 was a "thing." I was just doing it this way today and so your video helps me to feel as if I'm moving in the right direction. Thanks!) Yes, I'm subscribing🤗

[@aflourishingplace]

I love that, so glad it was helpful! 😊

[@ehrenkrt4334]

thank you ... today my kids will help out. summer break & its time for some family bonding and lessons . we going with 20/10 method

[@aflourishingplace]

Love that family bonding! 😊

[@wendylang2360]

Great idea with the reward time for kids - maybe play a game of cards with them, or have an ice-cream cone -something motivational that is quick & easy & not making more clutter.😂❤

[@wendylang2360]

While not actually pulling everything out, an overall house plan could help - draw up a houseplan and write in each room what would be the most logical place (the first place you would think to look for it) for categories of items - then you can at least get the things that need to stay to that room. ❤

[@aflourishingplace]

What a great idea!

[@alicequayle4625]

20 / 10 sounds like pomodoro. Great tips thanks.

[@aflourishingplace]

You bet, thanks for watching! 😊

[@nikkitrb]

I like Dana K White, but I find that just setting an amount of time or a specific space (like one drawer) works best. If I don’t try to tackle too much at once, then I can be effective and make steady progress.

[@aflourishingplace]

This makes so much sense!

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thank you Betsy! Im going to try the 20/10 method. Great video ❤

[@aflourishingplace]

Thank you, Stacey! 😊

[@elizabethaalonzo5116]

taking things out after declutter: a friend suggested putting "give aways" in trunk of car immediately as box or bag was filled... that way, whenever you are in your car, for whatever purpose, can easily make small detour anytime-- swing by dropoff. I used this during my time crunch part of life as divorced working mother of three. It made a huge difference. *this was 30 or 40 yrs ago; used until recent body changes now prevent me from driving. Also when lived in 2 story, house rule (mostly for me): if anything was left at foot of stairs, ANYTIME you were already going up, take something with you to the top. It helped.

[@aflourishingplace]

These are great tips! 😃

[@rebeccaclarke9985]

Thank you, great video I discovered Dana K White a few years ago and although I have a LONG way to go her method is perfect for me. So happy I discovered your channel.

[@aflourishingplace]

Thanks so much for watching! 😊

[@merralindagoddard9530]

I’m going to try the 20/10 method. 😊

[@lanabanana6849]

TY so much, I was just thinking on how to begin and I decided to do 20-10 and use the minimalista method. I'll let you know how it worked.

[@aflourishingplace]

Yay! 😊

[@dianeshaskin4276]

Great video! I love the different approaches. Lots of wisdom.

[@aflourishingplace]

I’m so glad! 😊

[@michellemarcisz7059]

Deniece Schofield & Don Aslett. I learned a lot from them in the early-mid 90’s, before the flylady.

[@aflourishingplace]

Good to know! 😊

[@Lily_The_Pink972]

I read Don Aslett's book about 40 years ago. Some good ideas but I was horrified at his suggestion (in order to save work and storage space), to throw all the Christmas decorations out and starting afresh each year! I'm 71 and have tree decorations that I have loved from childhood. Also others that evoke different memories. The joy I get when opening them up and hanging them on the tree makes any work involved well worth it. I really hope he revised that section of his book! One great tip from him though is to soak the area you're cleaning before you start to scrub! Makes life so much easier.

[@michellemarcisz7059]

@@Lily_The_Pink972 oh, yes. I recall that. It was also a place of business he was cleaning and I took it with a grain of salt. I definitely understand.

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

@@Lily_The_Pink972I also read many of Don Aslett’s books. Is There Life After Housework and others which I found entertaining as well - his daughter drew the cartoons in them. I don’t always agree with a writer but usually can find something useful. 😉

[@katie7748]

​@@Lily_The_Pink972 😲😳 That's so wasteful!!!!!

[@genxkay358]

I always Clarify. I did it without thinking about it. Just seemed like common sense. Great video!

[@aflourishingplace]

So great, thanks for watching! 😊

[@L_MD_]

I went on a massive declutter in 2018 after some huge life stressors … living with adhd and asd I have since found, the less stuff I have to manage, the less anxiety I have. I can navigate my daily life in a more manageable way. I just wish I’d learnt this when my children were younger … less clutter = much more organised and chilled out mum . It’s crazy how maintaining my ability to own less, has eased many of my symptoms - relating to adhd in particular.

[@aflourishingplace]

So wonderful, thank you for sharing g this!

[@MommieV619]

I needed to hear this!!!

[@intignia]

Seven years ago I KonMari'd my clothes, books, and papers. Before I was able to complete my decluttering I was unable to finish as we had to make an unexpected move. Since then those categories have remained uncluttered and organized. Because of serious health problems I am currently using Dana K. White's No Mess Decluttering. Everything in my home has been decluttered except for my hobby which I am working on when my health allows. I do not want to leave a mess for my children to have to go through when I die, so I guess I am incorporating a little bit of Swedish Death Cleaning in the process : )

[@aflourishingplace]

This is so awesome! 😍

[@lauriedupont507]

I’m a fan of Dana K White. I’ve been decluttering my house for decades. I used to use the method you mentioned first which was when I would get so angry with the clutter in our home I would just start purging. I have rented a dumpster on more than one occasion to get rid of the excess stuff in our home. Unfortunately my husband decided to become a prepper after I had done a massive declutter in our home. It paid off during the 2020 lockdown nonsense, but I still need to purge what I can. We are hoping to move within the next five years so I want to lighten the load now. I’ve never used the method of pulling everything out before decluttering. Making a bigger mess first doesn’t work for my personality. However, I never went as far as Dana with her take it there now approach until recently, after watching her videos. She makes perfect sense to me. The great thing about you covering all of these different methods is that it can give hope to someone who has failed in the past because they used a method not suitable to their personality. We all need to remember “if you always do what you’ve always done, you will always get what you always got! Try a new method, you might be surprised at how it could work for you. Happy Decluttering!

[@aflourishingplace]

I love this! It’s so true that different methods suit different people. 😊

[@charlensing3120]

“Take it there now” has become my best phrase for maintenance. Besides, the extra steps are good for me at 71 years old!

[@yadiaag7771]

Dana K. white hs had the best method for me personally. When I think “wow I have to have a home for this 🧐🤨🤔” I think….”nope, it’s trash/donate” all because I’m lazy. It’s been a real eye opening situation. Thanks to her my kitchen is decluttered, my bathroom is decluttered, my living room is decluttered and for the first time ever…my room is much more tidy, well more often than it’s ever been before.

[@aflourishingplace]

What an encouragement. Her method truly is so terrific! 😊

[@406disneyfan2]

The 20-10 method helps deal with decision fatigue.

[@aflourishingplace]

It’s so true!

[@mitziIvy]

I love the 20/10.

[@aflourishingplace]

Yes! 😊

[@Julia-xf5ps]

I’m 65, married….and 2 years ago had to clean out my parents home…….it was emotionally horrible. 😮 It was then I decided I would never do that to my 2 children. I’ve always been a tidy person, I had to be because it was the only way I got positive attention from my mother. Today, clutter is stressful for me and being an artist, I cannot create in that space. I’ve probably used all the methods in this video 😂 and they all have helped…💜

[@aflourishingplace]

That will be such a blessing for your children! ❤️

[@beckpender]

I am going to try the 20/10 method. I've tried KonMari, but poop out before I finish. I'm a senior in southern CA, live alone.

[@aflourishingplace]

I totally get that with the konmari method. It’s great, but it can be exhausting!

[@juliefinkelstein1674]

This is so helpful 🎉🎉🎉

[@aflourishingplace]

I'm so glad! 😊

[@RangeOfSubjects]

The no mess method aligns with inefficient cleaning I do for exercise. Music like Daft Punk and dance and carry one item upstairs or down etc. Clean and dance.

[@aflourishingplace]

This is awesome! 😃

[@cynthiaakacyndsmith6539]

I just subscribed, I am not a young mom, all my kids are on their own but the house still has stuff for them. I will be working toward having the mess not be left for them. Lots of tasks to do. I use Dana;s method. Is primo, and the 20-10 sounds good.

[@aflourishingplace]

Yes, 20/10 just helps it not be so overwhelming! 🙌

[@LynnDom-m4u]

Just grabbing a trashbag and tossing things in randomly but really fast helps me btw...would you consider doing a video using the clutterbug cleaning schedule(s)? The how to clean like a boss packet is available for free on her website.

[@aflourishingplace]

Great idea! I’ll check it out. 👍

[@Jules-740]

Clutterbug says it is trash bag therapy

[@LynnDom-m4u]

@@Jules-740 Sounds like her...She's a hoot!!

[@Jules-740]

@@LynnDom-m4u Yes she is! I love her personality!

[@apippin774]

Every Sunday I pick a drawer or shelf and reorganizes it. It allows me to declutter and remember what’s there. When I’ve gone through the hous3 I just start again so that every week something is reorganized

[@aflourishingplace]

What a great system! 😃

[@Holli_Sassafras]

I love Dana K White but the no mess method didn’t work for me when I was doing my initial big declutter because I needed to see what I was dealing with. The Core 4 is more like what I do. But Minimalista intrigues me.

[@aflourishingplace]

That’s a good point. Seeing the bigger picture can really help. 😊

[@katie7748]

Agreed. It works for some things for me but not others. I still definitely start with removing garbage though.

[@HerFathersBuiness]

Thanks! This was very helpful :)

[@aflourishingplace]

I’m so glad! 😊

[@Ruth808bdon]

Excellent vid

[@aflourishingplace]

Thanks for watching! 😊

[@margaretmatthews511]

I am drawn to Dana Whites but I don't know more than you mentioned.

[@barqu1636]

Dana White has an ebook called "Decluttering at the Speed of Life." It is fun reading and very helpful to me. I highly recommend it.

[@margaretmatthews511]

@@barqu1636 thank you

[@aflourishingplace]

Yes, her book is such a great read!

[@JiZd-xj1ok]

Yes ! Dana K White . Start w trash , non emotional, first, then step 2 , etc . NOT pulling tons of stuff out, TOO overwhelming for some of us. Too Taxing on our brains.

[@aflourishingplace]

Yes, and once the overwhelm hits it gets tough! 😫