How decluttering can change your life.

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you so much for watching! I hope you have a great day!! - Dawn

[@homemadehouse777]

you to

[@fuzibunny]

Happy Halloween 🎃

[@lequetalogan7516]

U 2! 🎃

[@lisadunphy41]

My only wish is that you updated more often. I love watching your vids…. YOU changed my life for the better. Can we have an update on your foster care journey, I’ve fostered for 13 years now. Xx

[@Readingandgardening]

Thank YOU for your amazing channel ❤😊

[@Itallnew]

The less stuff in my house, the more peaceful I feel.

[@Jordan-4-Him-NM]

My first declutter was my closet. I took 6 large bags and several boxes of clothes, shoes, scarves, jewelry, and hats. The next day I felt so good, with no regrets, I went through a second time and pulled out 4 more bags full. After experiencing no regrets, I found that it just became easier. My entire home is decluttered now. So my tip: let go of the absolute NO. Wait a day or 2: go back over the same area and see if there is more to let go of. If you are feeling regret, STOP. Wait a while and see if the regret passes. I basically declutter an item now if I pass by it and say, "Why do I still have that?" It is taking up space and is no longer useful to me." Then out it goes to the local thrift store for someone else to love. Thanks, Dawn, for all your help- you're the one that got me going.

[@jewel.s.journey]

Yes this was my experience as well! Now I look at things and if I wonder why I have it, it goes!

[@kashbash9645]

Thank you. This is great advice.

[@lauraw128]

If you have someone in your life waiting to point out your mistakes … declutter that person

[@cynthiafisher9907]

How about forgiving instead? And becoming curious as to why they have so much criticism inside? Maybe they need some understanding and love.

[@jeaniecolleen1739]

Forgiveness is best but you don't need to stay around negatively.

[@lindagraves9404]

I respectfully disagree. I had this situation & lived with negativity for decades. It truly brought me closer to God! I guess I needed God to survive it. Today, both God &my attitude rubbed off on that person & I LOVE spending time together! I don’t believe it is God’s goal to make us happy, but rather to make us holy. Don’t run from difficulty, look for the lesson in it and grow. I am much happier today than ever before in my life. The difficult times build resiliency that will carry you through future difficult times with greater ease.

[@cynthiafisher9907]

@@lindagraves9404 Amen! Very wise counsel.

[@melissaandreas8205]

Haha!! I wish I could.

[@amanda.c.ice.]

I have always hated cooking and now that I am a minimalist and have a highly simplified kitchen that’s easy to manage I’ve realized that I still hate cooking 😂 I enjoy being in my kitchen more, I just still don’t like to cook 🤣

[@TM15HAKRN]

Yep If someone helps..you too Would njoy cooking

[@papertownhome]

I feel like the true risk is missing out on the freedom of living with less. Thanks for many years of inspiration and guidance in this process!

[@HappyHarryX5]

I’m just starting to live without a hoarder and already I’m going into every room and doing a Wonder Woman twirl as I can see the floor and am not participating in an Olympic hurdling event and giving myself a compliment for not hurting myself of tripping on stuff. Nothing is going back in the house that doesn’t have a home and is useful or beautiful.

[@neonkitty6366]

You go girl!!!!! 🥰🥰🥰

[@123gorainy]

Happy to report.. that as I prepared to drive to our local Recycle center with another carload of clutter to donate. After 2 months of serious decluttering and GREAT home and attitude improvement, I was AMAZED to see my husband come walking out of the garage with armloads of stuff he said he just noticed he didn't need laying around anymore. Decluttering is contagious!! Thanks for getting me going on this valuable, life-changing project.

[@TM15HAKRN]

Wish it spread to me too😅

[@123gorainy]

@@TM15HAKRN You know, it's a kind of state of motivation that you can't force, but keep watching these videos and one day the inspiration will just hit you. I found a GREAT way to get started was the "set a timer" method. Just set a timer for 10 minutes, or 15 minutes ...start small... and see what you can do with ONE drawer or shelf. It's motivating. Best of luck!

[@ozarkview928]

You’d be so proud of me , I am not a hoarder or overly sentimental person but I cleaned out over a dozen garbage bags and boxes and trashed or donated. I went through my storage and every drawer closet and dresser and got rid of everything I didn’t use in the last year or more . Im hoping it will make my house cleaning easier .

[@allthingsmotherhood3206]

My favorite pastime…turning on my friend Dawn the Minimal Mom and cleaning my house. It’s like cleaning with a best friend encouraging you the whole time. Thanks for another great video!

[@donnaking2732]

I find the biggest problem in keeping things for "some day" is that either you don't remember that you already have the item, or you have so much stuff that you can't find it. Thanks for the inspiration! Decluttering really helps me not shop near as much. I just don't want to reclutter.

[@laurahazel6884]

Reclutter - love that term!

[@corriegibbons7185]

I found your channel in January. I was so overwhelmed and definitely embarrassed by the state of my home. My husband is just finishing up a serious declutter of the garage and then we'll have the whole house done! We feel so much better and the kids find it much easier to clean up. We're all so thankful for you, Dawn. Even my brother-in-law talks about how you've changed his family's life! Bless you, sister.

[@HappyHarryX5]

Way to go!

[@weyrisa]

This is what cinched it for me: What’s worse than knowing you threw away something you now need? Knowing you have something you need but not able to find it because of the clutter

[@thebackpackfamily2836]

Exactly

[@michellecanfield6371]

Except I know where everything is in my house. I have organized clutter. 😁😁

[@claremiller9979]

I would also add, looking at stuff you paid for money for but never use. I'm so much happier not looking at those things! Especially clothing and kitchen appliances but it could be anything - the guilt from just looking at that stuff is real!

[@reneekalanui2920]

😂 Truth and wisdom - amen!

[@jenAKnND]

This is so good! I’ve never thought of it this way before but it’s so true.

[@AZHITW]

I tossed my wire whisk into the donation box and away it went. A short time later... I decide to make cornbread reach for my wire whisk and only then realized why I had one. Tried using a spoon it worked by it took a lot longer to get everything mixed. Next trip to the credit union I stopped at the battered woman's thrift store, fifty cents got me another whisk, I think in 20 years that's the only item I decluttered that I had to replace.

[@lindaleight5291]

Every time I want to keep something just in case, I think about your Justin Case video and laugh!

[@SassySue67]

I do the same, I loved that video. So inspiring to get rid of the just in case stuff

[@johannathorisdottir2456]

Hi, Dawn wow this is me now! No decor, nothing to dust, nothing to rearrange every night, no stress and i love living with so little in my home. So much more peace and quiet surroundings. I love minimalism in all it´s glory. Love your content😁

[@karenbreslauer2053]

Sometimes I feel so lazy after a long week at work. I wish I had a little help but I have to say. I did accomplish one table top today Made a file box, keepsake box and a bill box. Ended up with a lot of trash !! Almost gave up. But I got it done !! Thanks to you. I had you in my ear. Just do it. It’s not going to take that long. And it didn’t Thanks so much for your inspiration Tomorrow I’m hoping to tackle my next table top. Thanks again Karen from Florida 🌴💕

[@cynthiafisher9907]

Good for you!

[@kimhouchins8653]

That's so awesome!! You rock!!!

[@rosanne7804]

The LESS STUFF, the MORE PEACEFUL EXISTENCE. ❤

[@sl9906]

A HUGE YES TO THAT!😁

[@natalialopes719]

I love minimalism. I shop less and buy less. A friend of mine is putting on a craft sale at her church and asked me to go. I politely declined and told her I don’t go to craft sales because I don’t want to buy anything I don’t need and if I go, I will come home with something and regret it. I prefer to stay home, organizing my house, taking care of what I have.

[@simply.clutterfree]

Minimalism definitely changed my life! Reduced my "inventory" by over 8000 items and I'm never going back to my shopaholic ways. I was an early subscriber of yours Dawn. All the inspiration really helped! 😊❤️

[@simply.clutterfree]

And Happy Halloween to all those celebrating 🎃👻

[@wewemcrhyne]

With your name, I thought you might have a channel also. So I investigated and found you and I’m excited to find another channel that looks like what I like to watch. I’m a new subscriber!!❤

[@Dreblueskies]

Wow that is amazing! 👍

[@simply.clutterfree]

@@wewemcrhyne Aww thank you so much! I appreciate it 😊❤️

[@simply.clutterfree]

@@Dreblueskies 😊❤️

[@sl9906]

Having learned thru you Dawn about the brain and the process of getting rid of toxic inventory, I’m still amazed at how free I am now that I’ve been a minimalist over a year now. It turns out I need waaay less than I thought. Life proved that all those “just in case” items were never to be. Go with the season you’re IN NOW!

[@karenmack2005]

Thanks to you! I have leveled up in my decluttering over the past 6 months. I actually have had at least three times that someone asked me for or I thought about needing an item very soon after I decluttered it. Personally, I put this in the category of spiritual warfare and determined that it would not deter me. None of the items were expensive or hard to replace. It only dinged my ego a slight amount from not having a resource that someone wanted or needed. I can deal with that. I am so grateful that I am nearing a life goal of living in a space that is relatively neat and tidy and containing 90% items that I am using daily or weekly.

[@hippityhop99]

"We imagine the future without enough." This is the first time I've heard of it like this - fascinating concept! The new focused analysis is so good, so philosophical and pragmatic.

[@daisymaejune]

Thank you for the reminder of saving 40% cleaning energy. Now I’m having health problems and lack of energy is making it go from Decluttering for peace and harmony alone, to now it’s a need* to declutter. Appreciate all of the time and devotion you’ve spent in making this content available for all of us naturally messy people ❤

[@obeliapark9860]

I've been following Dawn for several years now and I joined their "Take Your House Back" course then too. I've decluttered and I can say she is 100% correct, it is much easier to keep things tidy and much quicker to tidy after you've been 'living' in your house. My 5yr old granddaughter comes over and pulls out ALL her things and destroys the house but it only takes me 10min to get it back in order. I love it. 👍 Thank you soooooooooooo much Dawn, Cass and Dana. Cheers Obelia from Australia 🦘

[@BR-kk9qu]

The more I declutter, the better I feel and the easier it gets! However, I still have a “think about it” stack that needs to go! It mentally drains me. Thank you, Dawn!

[@dannyh9010]

Instead of a “think about it stack”, use Dawn’s “Time will tell bin”. Put everything in and close it. Write on the outside, “donate after xx/x/xxxx.” Whatever is still in there on that date goes, without opening it. You made the decision to get rid of it today, get the “safety” of keeping it in case you change your mind, and the security of knowing it will be getting out of your house on that future date since you already decided to let it go. No mental drain in the meantime.

[@hettiekenny5185]

Always encouraging, always optimistic, always ready to give us one more reason to get rid of the junk. Thanks, Dawn!

[@bonnie-jeanschmidt2537]

I grew up hearing: “Fix it up. Wear it out. Make it do, or do without.” I understand why that was an important “motto” in generations past, but I have found it detrimental to the mindset and ability to easily let things go, because everything is potentially useful. However, thanks to you, Dawn, I am reframing my outlook and giving myself permission to view things differently. Thank you so much for all your efforts! I have followed you for many years, and you still inspire me!!! 😊

[@ThereseDavidson]

Decluttering my notes is the biggest risk i have experienced… and at the same time i felt so free I had to tell myself: these represent my journey up until the knowledge i have today. Getting rid of my notes doesn’t mean i loose my knowledge. Also, i used containers (memory bin inspo), and said: ok, you can keep notes that fit in this container. It helped :-) Thank you for your guidance!❤

[@rdb4996]

Dawn has a video in which she says something along the lines of 'trust that the information you need comes to you at the time you need it'. And since I realised I can't find the information I have collected or simply don't remember I collected it, I have started to trust myself and the universe. Let's see if that pans out. Ps, maybe you can digitalise your notes?

[@laurafprim]

Same!!! It has taken me 20 years😅

[@lawaincooley6788]

I'm not anywhere near minimalist but I try. I want to share that I FINALLY decluttered my kitchen cabinets. It is SO MUCH easier to put the dishes away which I hate doing normally. Lol

[@flonotflow]

A number of years ago a friend of mine decided to do a full on declutter. She approached it with the "yes, I might have to buy it again, but what are the chances?" It inspired me as well and I'll be 100% honest here--I've not had to buy any of the things I donated/tossed over again.

[@kiffanibond165]

Ahhhh….now it’s Tuesday 😉❤😉❤

[@rose3789]

I've always, before this minimalist movement, been like this (according to my Mom and close friends) literally, in my life, roughly every 6 to 9 months, I go through everything that has(in past) or is mine now, and say, "Rose do you want to repack this on your next move/phase of life". 95% of the time it's a resounding "Heck No" and then I get rid of said items asap.

[@amywright2243]

My favorite gain from decluttering is being able to walk across my bedroom in the dark with NOTHING to trip over!

[@beesknees213]

I loved the tip of putting the lids ON storage containers in the kitchen. That was a game changer. I love your channel. Keep up the great work. I LOVE order. My adult daughter thanked me for "keeping a clean house when we were little." Thanks, Dawn

[@lifewithlarsandsusie8315]

I’ve been watching you since your channel was small and I would imagine it’s hard for you to say the same general idea over and over again- but it’s amazing how I still enjoy listening about de cluttering over and over again! We must be alike- we do let clutter come back so always need to remind ourselves about decluttering! We have a big family so it’s always getting messy and kids grow and change all the time.

[@01baia]

I listen to her over and over too! And I sometimes find something new. Today it was that we have a grim view of our future! Yes! I certainly do - and that does lead to stockpiling for me. Now I can address it intentionally, knowing my future will NOT be grim!

[@HappyHarryX5]

I’ve been concentrating on getting rid of the ‘what if I need it’ and sentimental items, polystyrene and cardboard boxes and it’s been life changing. My calves down to my feet feel lighter when I do it. Can’t believe the amount of foam in boxes. Could have filled my car 2-3 times with it and I’ve been decluttering for about 7yrs. I also figured out that there’s a difference between sentimental items and stuff I’ve had since the 80s because it’s old or part of a collection.

[@lisakallunki5042]

My husband has so much stuff and doesn’t have it organized that often, if he is looking for something and can’t find it, he buys another duplicate! 🤯

[@cm-nj]

I've got one of those husbands too!

[@rdb4996]

Awh no, that's so wasteful. Can they be encouraged by telling them that they spend unnecessary money that can go towards a bigger goal (vacation, home reno etc.)?

[@Jessica_Jones]

Been there for sure. For me it took the gradual work of practicing clear communication around these items when they became known, but I was careful to show extra patience and grace to encourage awareness that might lead to change, rather than putting my husband on the defense. He still has his own ways of managing his things, but as I've further simplified things for myself, explained my thought process along the way, AND -- big part of the picture -- embraced his Clutterbug style, we've been able to work together much better as a team (as well as improved memory around what we already have) 😊

[@dannyh9010]

As a man, a good shop tip I heard is that if you think you have something, but can’t find it, stop working and start cleaning your shop. You will either find it, or your shop will get completely cleaned and you realize you don’t have it and need to buy another. So, the possible outcomes are: a cleaner shop and the tool you need, or completely clean shop and a needed new tool. Win-win!

[@annecarter5181]

I agree with all the issues you present - the physical & psychological benefits are obvious. Decluttering is actually easy. Very little focus is ever put on where all this stuff is going to!!! It’s so easy to say-“take it to the charity shop”; “throw it in the garbage”. I’ve been to the local landfill & recycling center. It is heart-stopping!!! Some charity shops are limiting donations. I don’t know what the solution is but when “stuff” leaves our homes, IT STILL EXISTS!!!

[@01baia]

That is so true. The hope is that, along with decluttering goes reduced buying. So while this "stuff" is still cluttering the universe, additional future clutter hopefully is not.

[@francesrevetria8914]

I love utilizing my local Buy Nothing group. I post all kinds of things there, food items, beauty products, cups, books, etc. And 99% of the time someone needs or wants it! I love in a border low income area and got to see a mom escaping a DV situation with her kids get everything she needed from our group. She posted about some items they needed and everyone donated those things and beyond. I'm talking clothes, furniture, appliances, etc. An amazing way to give "stuff" a new life. Much better than dumping it at goodwill I think (if you have the time, posting and such does take time)

[@erinburke4728]

That is a realistic perspective. The buy nothing/free stuff groups are sometimes a better first option, and then thrift shops. Less chance of waste.

[@ReturnToSenderz]

I’m not a minimalist, but downsizing my inventory has definitely reduced my daily stress. I have to be diligent in making a home for the things I want to keep and being real about what’s not being used, but it’s worth not having to dodge or move piles just to use my house.

[@ThingsAbove333]

This is where I'm at too!

[@iriswelch3553]

Same here. We recently came back from a few days away. I realized that I only had to put the laundry in the washer and empty the cooler. Period. The house was in order!

[@susan5661]

Dawn, I saved up my pennies and bought a pair of the Dansko house slippers you recommended. Oh my gosh, they are wonderful, my feet feel so much better, and I’m worth it!

[@TheMinimalMom]

I’m so glad to hear this Susan! ❤️

[@janicerice8810]

You are truly an amazing teacher. Your home looks lovely. Being a minimalist certainly doesn’t mean that you have to give up pretty decor. Just that the pieces have to be thoughtfully placed. I am just a newbie at this but already see many benefits.

[@jn4049]

"I'm lazy." "I'm unorganized." "I'm not a good mom." "I'm not a good wife." "I'm not a good housekeeper." This is the wheel that spins in my head... I've been away from your videos for a time and it shows. I have learned that I need to spend time with people who are living their lives in a place where I want to be at to motivate me to get there too. You're one of those people. I used to have your good example at the front of my mind throughout my week. I'm back, Dawn! Thanks for being a great friend.

[@teriw56]

One of the neatest things my granddaughter said the other day was grandma, I have too much inventory will you help me go through it. They watch what you do without any prompting.

[@kakylong2]

Recently, when my sister & nephew helped us declutter our garage, I could not believe how much stuff we had taken from a friend when her & her family went to the mission field 20 yrs ago. It's been sitting in our garage all this time. We started donating things & when we git to our own stuff, it was definitely easier to let it go. I'm looking forward to spring coming & getting the last 20% decluttered. Thank you, Dawn, for all your encouragement. 😊

[@mikemanjo2458]

So grateful for your work. I am feeling lighter and freer! All because of you! ❤🙏 Thank you! Jane in SC

[@username9999]

There was something the other day that we couldnt find. I thought, "we must not have that anymore." I kind of miss it, but we can live without it. Later, I found those things and was disappointed that I have more inventory to manage.

[@karenblackwell8465]

Dawn, I’m so thankful my daughter (mother of 5) clued me into your channel. It has been life-changing! I love the freedom of simplifying and I honestly believe I have more clarity of thought. That’s huge for me. It seems like it is easier to make decisions now. I love my new life. Blessings to you and your family!

[@pinkroses135]

Changing your view of the future is huge. I can attest to cooking at home more. It's become my one hobby. 😊 Healthy lifestyle is a great motivator.

[@lotteom]

What if you are not afraid that you might need it someday but more that you might miss it someday. Like emotionally miss it. Or if someone asks you about something they had given to you. I love your videos and inspiration but these are things I still struggle with.

[@shirleyparker4969]

It is so nice to have my daughter come into my home and say that my house looks awesome!

[@theresamoser2432]

I believe this I have become so organized I am not a minimalist but I am so organized that I have days I think I don’t have anything to do. What is this lol. Everything has its place and everything goes back or is put in its place as it comes in the door. I am so low stress in my life it is amazing. I don’t buy extras or but it in my cart and think about it for 1 day and decide when I look at it later the FOMO is gone..

[@stowie7733]

I’m giving a dresser and a desk to my daughter (who needs them) and now I am having to declutter all the drawers…shrink the containers & space means I can get rid of even more…win-win for both my daughter and I. 👍😁😁👍

[@ashleym9502]

The mistake fear is why I love the idea of a time will tell bin/storage. I've done this with so much right now, especially the toys for the kids

[@ashleym9502]

Also, my husband was completely against decluttering but since I started I have decluttered about 5 to 10% of our things and he has now gotten on board. He even mentioned going through his own clothes to get rid of some. We are both borderline hoarders so this process is very hard.

[@memyself4627]

You’ve helped me so much. I’m determined to make a more peaceful and happy home than the one I grew up in, and you and a few other minimalist favorites are showing me the way and keeping me motivated, thank you so much!!!

[@jillgott6567]

I am having difficulty letting go. But when I do give away, I feel guilty since the Good Wills and Salvation Army are getting overloaded with items. My new way of dealing with this is, when I hear of someone holding a silent auction or yardsale I ask if they are looking for donations. This is a win win. I get rid of things I am not using. And hopefully the charities can use them to raise money. Thank you for showing it is not a quick and easy process to declutter.

[@aprilsummers9930]

I am so thankful I found your channel. I have been working toward decluttering since I started binge watching your videos. This past weekend, I was able to host a family dinner with over 25 people to celebrate my mom’s birthday. There was none of the normal stress related to trying to make my house presentable because it has become so much more presentable. I had food ready on time AND even had time to get myself ready because I wasn’t frantically hiding things away and cleaning. But most importantly, I was able to do all of this without my mom having to help with any of the cooking and cleaning. She has spent years doing it all, then the past 7 years I took over hosting but still always needed her help to pull it off. I am so grateful for all the ways I am seeing my life improve since decluttering and making my home more manageable! Thank you for your hard work to share this lifestyle with us!

[@aprilsummers9930]

Also, I’ve always considered myself more of a messy person. I hated cleaning but as I declutter I’m finding that cleaning my house is becoming enjoyable. I’ve even been able to find time for some of the bigger cleaning tasks that I always struggled with before like cleaning carpets, washing windows, etc.

[@andreawales1938]

The first holiday after I moved back to the States with my new husband, I was told by my sister-in-law that my husband’s family holidays have always been potlucks. Everyone contributes to holiday meals. Although “my” holiday to host is Christmas (because ours was the house with children and I didn’t want any “Santa” mix-ups), my in-laws’ culinary contributions always make the holidays happier - and less stressful!

[@SandiPietruszka]

This is a wonderful testimony! Thank you for sharing 😊

[@aprilsummers9930]

@@andreawales1938 I did ask others to bring a dish to share but I made enough that we would have a full meal even if no one brought anything. We ended up with some delicious sides and desserts though!

[@cheristump9404]

“Our brain wants to retreat!” Truth! How many times do I hear family and friends and myself say, I don’t know where to start! Without sounding over dramatic your videos on here are changing the way homes can function and life can be enjoyed! Thank you.

[@lwb442]

Your videos hellp me stay motivated to pare down routinely. That said, no amount of kitchen decluttering will ever make me want to cook.

[@nataliyamcgregor2570]

Where did you get your drying hanger/rack? That’s hanging in your laundry room. It’s so perfect to stay out of place and minimal

[@clairefaught5033]

Dawn, I’m so thankful that I found your channel! Decluttering & your advice has changed my life. I’m a SAHM and not enjoying it bc of the clutter. Watching your videos showed me that clutter is one cause of my anxiety/depression. I get so excited when you drop a new video bc as soon as I turn it on, I feel motivated! Thanks for sharing your expertise & please consider starting a podcast 😂

[@HannahRainbow88]

Do you follow the Clutterbug Podcast? I love Cas' channels - been watching her videos for about 15years - and she's how I found Dawn (and Dana). Hope you like it 😊 ... I think Dawn would be great at Podcasts if she has the extra time to do them too, but hopefully Cas' will tide you over until if/when that happens. 💗

[@bethann9880]

Once in a while you see a great shirt I need to know where it came from… Where is this shirt from? I love how it sets off your neck and is not long on arms that are short -like yours and mine!

[@23evolution]

Thanks Dawn. I just sat down for a break from a hard day and just want to say you have been such a soothing friend over the years, even though you don't know me. I do thank God for the day I probably just stumbled onto your website (or for Him directing me to it). I don't know that I have ever had a friend help me so much as you have. You inspire me. And you and your family are fun.

[@sandradowd6732]

Thanks for the reminder , I need to go through are mugs,too many and we don't need so many.

[@lauren501]

Thank you for helping me so much on my decluttering journey! An idea which I want to share with your followers is the possibility of asking for "donation gifts" for Christmas instead this year, if you, like me, are blessed to have more than you need already, and have a family who very kindly insist on giving presents! 😊 you can choose a charity, e.g. Compassion, which then provide a card showing what the gifted donation is going towards, (e.g. helping a new mum in a developing country, providing a Bible to a child, etc.). During my decluttering I have noticed that a lot of the things I have decluttered are very kindly gifted presents which have gone unused over the years. In the words of the Lord Jesus, it is more blessed to give than to receive! Acts 20:35 😊

[@kathym.9140]

Dawn, you encouraged me to declutter my kitchen counters. I never thought I would like having only one or two items on my counters but after I decluttered the results were remarkable. When I walk into my kitchen either first thing in the morning or the last thing at night I'm just thrilled at how nice it looks. I always thought you needed to have things out to make your kitchen look cozy. After seeing your kitchen I realized that less is definitely more when it comes to our homes. Thank you for the inspiration!

[@lequetalogan7516]

Dawn, this is one of your best videos yet! I just had to share it! You spell out what decluttering IS & why it can change your life. Bravissimo!!!!!! 🙌❤️🙌❤️🙌❤️🙌

[@isabellaross1472]

When I started decluttering I started in our basement where we tended to just shove things all over. I got rid of anything I forgot was down there or haven’t used in 6-12 months. Wow, I easily got rid of 90% of the stuff down there. The difference was VERY noticeable and it gave me confidence to start in other areas of my home where the decision fatigue was more real. Thank you dawn for getting me started❤❤

[@sparklejesusfreak]

I honestly can't think of much we don't use in our home but our kitchen still feels cluttered because it is so small but I don't know how we would live where we do if I hadn't come across your channel 5 years ago when we owned so much more. You brought me back the peace I had when my husband and I first got married because we owned so much less. But now with 9 kids at home we can still get everything clean just as quickly as when there were only 3 of us. Just now it definitely feels more lived in when everyone is home lol

[@aidar4816]

Your home is so beautiful! Love it! Love minimalism. Thank you Dawn

[@janicesztabnik5471]

Dont know why I felt the pressure to create a home that looked like a gift shop when I was raising my family. With your inspiration Ive dealt with the main floor and second floor- bedrooms. Still haven’t taken the time for printed photos which are in the basement. Maybe you can offer so addition tips ? Incredibly grateful for your channel, its a great feeling and the house looks way better!

[@SassySue67]

I have been going through 65 years of photos from my parents as well as my own. Tossing the ones of people I have no idea as to who they are. Also tossing the photos of flower arrangements, back yard and snow photos. Hope this helps you

[@maryeb08]

Your comment about your home looking like a gift shop gave me a laugh. I think I did the same thing, but no more of that. I did a clean out of bad photos, duplicates, bad scenery and many pictures of zoo animals. Don't know what I was thinking?! I need to go through them a second time when I get motivated again. Good luck!

[@janicesztabnik5471]

@@maryeb08 Cleaning, decluttering has become something I enjoy, family not included! Yeah, memory lane with tackling the photos is something I need courage for!

[@Chrissyhappy]

@@janicesztabnik5471same here. I spent an entire day at the dining table with my daughter sorting my albums. I have a cupboard full. Very organised from the last 26 years. I became meticulous about photo taking when I thought I may loose my daughter at an early age. I took out duplicate photos. Photos of trains, animals, random places I couldn’t even recall. Photos I didn’t like. Got the inventory down from 7,500 to 2,500. Put them into new albums as the old ones were degraded and worn. We look at the photos all the time. My daughter has special needs and loves doing this. We had a great time going through them all. I’m a lot more relaxed now about getting rid of things. Any I wasn’t sure about disposing of I put in a basket and will revisit in a while. It was such a relief to get this done. It had needed done for an age.😊

[@Sabrina-gi9zw]

Dawn, did you ever consider talking about frugal living and budgeting? I declutter frequently, but all too often I struggle with impulse purchases. I waste my money and clutter up my space, just to get that short satisfaction of buying something. Do you have any tips on that? ❤

[@theresacurrin6395]

I’ve always had trouble passing up a bargain and that led me to clutter. Now my thought process is what do I do with it after the purchase? By thinking through to the next step, I usually talk myself out of buying it. It must be something I need and have a place for. It can’t just ride around in the car with me until I have to unload it to let someone ride 😂

[@uteme]

Simply stop doing it. You have the power within you to say no. You are a good person, I'm sure, who does not want to practice "excess."

[@peace5647]

Right now Christmas Shoe Boxes are being collected for Samaritans Purse…. Maybe buying something for a child in need will make you feel just as good! A lot of times it’s in the BUYING that we get that joy and endorphins rush.

[@carolbabb7875]

If you feel the need to purchase try to purchase some non-perishable food you can donate to a local food pantry or hats, scarfs, or gloves they can give out. If you are not sure about what just give them a call or stop by and ask. This will make you feel great and if you have kids take them with you to donate. My local fire dept. collects toys all of November and part of December for less fortunate children. I had a problem shopping too and it took a while to curb.

[@melissacarrigan7922]

I have been watching your videos for a long time and have been wanting to pare down the clutter. I’ve finally been able to get my husband on board with it and have just spent the last few days decluttering my kitchen. It was the easiest place for me to start since it is mostly my domain. It was so satisfying to throw out old outdated food, vitamins, spices etc. I really had no idea how much stuff I had like 8 pie pans! Who needs that many?? I kept 2. Thanks for sharing these videos. I’m looking forward to getting my whole house in order.

[@uteme]

Awesome job! Keep going!! ♡ You got this!

[@lh2481]

Dawn, I think God sent you my way. I don't know how I stumbled upon you, but I have slowly been losing my mind to the state of my house these last 6 years since my oldest was born, but really the last month now that I have twin 1 month olds, a 16 month old and a 6 year old. You are changing my life and my family's life for the better! Thank you!

[@frewalk23]

Hi, with the holidays coming up , I was wondering if you could do a video about how to not falling into the trap of buying holiday decor. I know I don't need any of it and it will just end up ad clutter but marketing!...it's so hard sometimes! Thanks!

[@HannahRainbow88]

How about using the "1 in = 1 out" rule? I decluttered half our baubles as we only have 2 mini trees, and think about the spaces I have vs what decorations I have/want BEFORE I go to a store. Only items that fit my criteria come home, otherwise I can look and think "that's pretty" / snap a picture then leave it in the store. Hope that helps 😊

[@tammy707]

I need the encouragement. I need someone that will come over and push me. It does feel good, when I actually do it though.

[@summawub]

You're so awesome Dawn! I can listen to you talk about these same ideas over and over and not be bored. Feels like a breath of fresh air every time. Love you.

[@cyndigandy5611]

It is feeling so good little steps each day. I’m so encouraged by your channel. I’m not a minimalist. But I do feel the weight of all the stuff. Little wins encourage me to take another step! One things at a time. Filling up give away bags and bins and trash bags never felt so good!❤

[@audreynolt7069]

Thanks for your hard work Dawn!! ❤

[@sibs9127]

3 kids under 5. SAHM. Just started and I cannot explain how freeing it is to get rid of the clutter and things we don’t need

[@Kasher18]

This is going to be a super odd comment 😂….but I just noticed how your hair perfectly matches your couch and your eyes perfectly match the computer desk behind you….You basically look great in that room 🤪🙌🏻

[@carolann811]

1:42 - Susie the Cow. Seeing that brought back a flood of memories from a road trip vacation with my son 20 years ago.

[@tirzahmyers3392]

I decluttered my kitchens drawers at the beginning of the year and a few weeks after, when my in laws came for the weekend, my mom in law asked if I had a specific gadget. I told her I had just donated it. We made do with something else and I don’t even remember what it was now we “needed”.

[@nancyfisher310]

Hi Dawn, you have been so inspiring to me over the last few months! My mindset is really changing for the better! Can you do some more videos for people who have a hard time getting rid of special or sentimental items? That is probably my biggest obstacle

[@BonnieDeysher]

You read my mind! I’ve been watching for years. I finally let go of an upright family piano I’ve had since 1938. It has made a big difference in my feelings and attitude. Thank you Dawn, Cas, and Dana! ❤

[@teresahughes4895]

Definitely start in the kitchen. A spot on kitchen will change your life!

[@MyFocusVaries]

I love your regular videos! They keep me from becoming complacent. Thanks for keeping me motivated in such a kind, encouraging way. You're a wonder.

[@trishc8311]

It seems I’m only able to declutter around my “keep everything” husband when extreme circumstances allow: tossed tons of stuff in the basement several years ago when the water heater burst and flooded the entire floor, and now I’ve been able to do a first pass on the attic and detached garage because they are about to be reroofed (down to the rafters!).

[@lisamusil8170]

I think your past identity as a "lazy" person makes you an ideal leader for someone wanting to organize their life. It didn't come naturally or easily to you, so you are a more compassionate teacher and you truly understand the necessary steps, because you had to learn them yourself. I am working on decluttering our house, now and have forwarded some of your videos to my adult children as inspiration and to reaffirm that even though they grew up in a cluttered (maybe even hoard-y) house, they can break that cycle and go ahead and get rid of "stuff".

[@aranchmom]

Thanks to your videos, I have begun the decluttering journey in the past 3 weeks. I have donated 12+ garbage bags/boxes full so far! Still more to go. I started with my clothes and so far I am LOVING it! No going back. Secondly my kitchen is a pleasant place, now. We all enjoy using it. Thank you!

[@lizziemcdougall2767]

Thanks for another great video. Your videos always inspire me to reconsider the choices that I am making about the things in my home. Less is definitely better.

[@lwb442]

You need a who series on decluttering our cloud drives and electric devices.

[@dandrahoward1682]

I have been decluttering my bedroom and bathroom that I have at my Dad's where I live. He doesn't want to get rid of anything but I hope He allows me to remove me I will! I feel better each day as I declutter my rooms!

[@lindahritz249]

I had to declutter with a husband who loves clutter. I started with “islands.” Clean areas that couldn’t be recluttered. Years later, most of the house is fine and the“islands” are his areas of clutter. Start with your room. Hang in.

[@ElleH123-w7w]

My biggest hurdle is what to do with it. I’ve listened to her numerous times about the $20 rule but letting it just go out and away stops me.

[@theresacurrin6395]

I love your videos and words of wisdom! I’ve been on this journey for several years. Your kindness and encouragement has helped me tremendously! Thanks so much for all you do ❤. Every time I remove something from our home, it lifts another burden.

[@michellecuevas5243]

One of the negative outcomes of decluttering my children stuff is the hurt feeling of relatives who gave the items.

[@noemisolano4748]

I understand what you mean Michelle. When I declutter my child's stuff, I will donate the items I brought and keep the stuff that family gave to my child. It bothers me to donate stuff I buy for my child but I rather keep the stuff that my family gives.

[@Jessica_Jones]

While it may feel bad and may be difficult to explain if a family member notices you've donated their gift, what is most important is how your children feel about the items. If they are not attached to the gift or have grown past its usefulness in their life and you have no need for it, it is your child's item to part with. Speaking as someone who has received gifts with strings attached, or gifts from people who have given based on _their_ likes and not my own, I have learned to express my thanks, feel gratitude for the heart behind it, and then let the item go. It has been very freeing :)

[@jeannebee2935]

If you can, try to give the items to a younger cousin. Be sure and let the parents of the cousin know it was from Aunt "Sally". Praise her to them and then let Aunt "Sally" know who you passed it on to, and how pleased they are to receive the gift from her. She feels good about the double honor she is given. A lot of the time, she just wants to feel appreciated and to have someone else feel gratitude for what she gave. Everybody likes to feel like the hero in the story of their life!

[@Jessica_Jones]

@@jeannebee2935 generally speaking, that is an unhealthy way of managing gifts that can often pass down guilt rather than joy. If someone has given something, once gratitude has been expressed it is the recipient's to do with as they please. Obviously if, for instance, a relative handmade something that is a very precious item, it makes sense to carry the story on, tell new owners about the giver; but for "everyday" items, a gift given with the heavy expectations of being informed on its status is not a gift at all, but a conditional transaction.

[@HannahRainbow88]

I've said to relatives "how about you keep this at your house for when they come to play?" 🤭 No hurt feelings and no excess in our tiny apartment; win win!

[@felipelozano933]

YOU ARE AWESOME DAWN ! ❤ D. L.

[@juliatepe5760]

Thank you Dawn for all the effort, time, and love you put into these videos. I totally agree, start in the kitchen. Just clearing out our shelf or drawer is so freeing!

[@laurashields975]

Great energy you have sharing your tips and ideas. So glad to have found your channel. :)

[@farmgirl6417]

I’ve had this bad habit of thinking another product will help clean something better, or make it easier. It doesn’t. I’ve leaned that I just have to clean with a product that works, and not keep adding more products expecting different results.

[@HannahRainbow88]

Flylady says "soap is soap" and you can even just use up shampoo/shower gel you don't like to scrub the sink/tub etc. with! 😂 I love her practical advice like that. Another (linked to that) lesson from her is: Whatever you do to clean - however imperfectly - still blesses your home... It's all progress 💗