How to let go of sentimental items » MINIMALISM & DECLUTTERING Tips

[@SimpleHappyZen]

What do you prefer? Decluttering alone or together with someone else? 👇👇 Thanks for watching! 🌱 Patreon: www.patreon.com/SimpleHappyZen 📘 Simple Happy Zen's Decluttering Ebook: simplehappyzen.teachable.com/p/simple-happy-zen-s-ultimate-decluttering-guide

[@missrelaxed3872]

Declutering alone

[@keithgeronedacuan]

I like decluttering alone. It is therapeutic somehow.

[@sbellalopez9284]

In the last month I got rid of a lot of my parents decor, they divorced and I got rugs, frames, kitchen stuff, however I recently got rid if their stuff and I'm feeling alot better, although at the beginning I felt I was happy and needed them later they dragging me so many emotions I'm glad they aren't here any more!! Moving toward!!

[@romyfleurs]

With somebody else! My husband always tells me..."You don't need that" lol.

[@terribell2945]

Alone. My husband is not on board with minimalism. Our two sides of the bedroom are quite a sight. He is however beginning to mention how he would like his side to look neat and clutterfree. I don't push.

[@sarahthatcher123]

I found what helped me most is to go through everything multiple times over time. I got rid of a lot...I was so sentimental...I had so many little notes and pieces of little bits of paper...i had items I couldn't even remember why it's sentimental so it's like a layer...the 'low hanging fruit' and then I left it for 6 months but continued my minimizing journey and more learning...when I went through the second time I thought why on earth did I not declutter this last time? But I eventually learned it just wasn't the right time yet. I call it the onion method...layer after layer. I go real easy on myself and don't get rid of anything that I'm very unsure of. Never 'forcing myself' to get rid of it for the sake of decluttering alone. So I have now learned to trust that each time I go into a category, especially sentimental items, I trust that the items where their time has come to leave...I will 'see it', 'feel it', know it' and it won't have that yucky conflicting feeling...it will feel good ( as in peaceful) to let it go.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes I love that! :) It's how I often declutter as well, round after round, layer after layer :)

[@fabulousmarlene]

This is what I have been doing Definitely good advice

[@anouk891]

Ooooh so kind of you to share your journey. Always beautyfull to hear such boosting practical stories👍🏾🌺🤗

[@nicoleonfeels]

I just told myself yesterday that just because I’m letting go of a shirt, doesn’t mean I’m letting go of a memory. What perfect timing!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Exactly! :) Thanks for sharing Nicole

[@nicoleonfeels]

@@SimpleHappyZen & thanks for sharing another great video :)

[@jvyeknom]

Best way to get rid of those sentimental items is to bring them out into the open. If you put the object out where you can see it on a regular basis you'll start to think about it more and more. Eventually you get to the point where you'll either get tired of looking at it and your ready to get rid of it or you'll come to the conclusion that the object actually has meaning or purpose.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes! :) Great tip

[@AtoZenLife]

Ugh, sentimental items are the hardest! I finally let go of 30 years of sentimental clutter, never felt better and more at peace. ✨✌️✨ Great topic, Vera! 🤗

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha definitely! And congrats on all that progress 👏

[@AtoZenLife]

Also I really liked the clapping bit at the beginning, that was so cute. 😂 Seriously how I feel about decluttering ALL 👏 THE 👏 TIME 👏 .

[@AtoZenLife]

@@SimpleHappyZen Thanks! Also, are you an anime fan and a squirrel fan too??? 👀 I feel like we could seriously be friends when I saw your art. 😂 I already know you love penguins!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha thanks! I always do the clapping at the beginning of filming to sync audio and video together, but I kept it in this time

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes I've always liked anime and used to draw a bit back when I was younger. The eevee mug was something I won in a tokyo game center haha

[@lucytitus2183]

This is still hard for me. As I have been letting go of sentimental items I feel better. It’s been hard since my mother passed away. I know she wouldn’t want me holding on to them and she wants me to be happy. When I let go of her things and they are gone I realize she isn’t the items and that she is always with me without the items. I guess it can get confusing. Thank you Vera for this video.❤️🙏🏻

[@dominiquetheeasyminimalist]

I have a box that contains childhood items and various little things collected over time that I can’t get rid of, because of their special meaning. I’ve had this box for around 30 years now, and every couple of years it is such a joy to open it and relive some cherished memories 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I love that!

[@calmdowngurl]

👍

[@petitsjoujoux5011]

Oh my goodness I have so many sentimental items, but not overwhelmingly phew! I am really glad that I've kept the paper of my first time drawing music notes. Now I can frame it and put it in my music teaching room so my students know that I've started where they've started!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Lovely :)

[@rebeccarendle3706]

Great video... I have been doing all these things over the last 3 years of my minimalism journey :) I have made 3 boxes for each of my kids.. Two hang file boxes with files from birth to 18/20yrs.. And one box for lumpy stuff eg christening candle, baby hospital clothes, crafts etc. . They can take their 3 boxes when they leave home and it will be easy for them to go through and then they can decide what they want to keep long term. For my own sentiment stuff.. I was struggling with diaries and letters.. So recently when I had another attempt to reduce my sentiment stuff I used the "Swedish Death Clean" method.. Where I asked myself "if I died tomorrow, would I want my kids/family reading/seeing this stuff?"... Basically my answer to almost all of the diaries and letters was "no way! ".. So I looked through them, had a giggle (or cringe) and binned 98‰ of it!.. The few I kept.. I won't be embarrassed if they every saw/read them!... That method really helped me with that category of sentiment items!.. I hope these ideas help someone :)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Awesome tips!! Thanks for sharing Rebecca 🤗🌷🍵

[@CFord-wu3in]

Very good topic! I too have struggled with this one. Some things I know I will never part with (like my grandmother's gold watch) but I tend to only keep small items which are easily stored. One category which is difficult for me is items I've had from my childhood which I have carried around and repeatedly moved for 60 years (I'm 66 now). I don't love the item, but feel I owe it because of the time I've owned it. Ridiculous. I pitched it and truly haven't regretted it. In fact, I feel a huge sense of relief as it no longer owns me.

[@torriek4977]

This may be the best video on sentimental items I have seen. Short, to the point and beautifully filmed. Unlike most minimalists, you understand that some material items cannot be replaced and must be decluttered very thoughtfully if at all.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much, that's so nice to hear :)

[@RiaVerdolaga]

Last month, I finally let go old letters and cards that I've received and kept for more than 20 years. When I went through them, they don't make smile anymore. In fact, they were not able to stir any emotion in me anymore. That's how I realized it's time to let them go. I actually felt better after letting go of them.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Amazing :)

[@joank5585]

This was the hardest area for me, I've always felt so guilty about getting rid of cards and my kids artwork and when I offered it to them they didn't really want it, I am also extremely sentimental but I love the idea of taking a picture of the most special things and living in the present with them and now I have so much less clutter around, it is so liberating!

[@moze_R]

Lots of wisdom here. I am right in the middle of sorting through cards, letters, photos, children’s artwork. Thank you for the “permission” to keep more than I expected. 🙂

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks Melissa and happy decluttering! :)

[@T.T.M.60]

Going thru sentimental items can really be healing. My grandma left me all her stuff as she knew it would mean the most to me of anyone in our family. As I went thru everything and decided what I truly wanted to keep, I laughed and cried and I have to say it was and will always be one of the most healing things I ever did. I still have most of the items I originally kept but recently let go of some items.

[@barbarak1839]

I put an item on display for a couple of days "to think about if I should keep it." 90 per cent of the time it's donated but it gives me the time for me to work on my decision.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes that works wonderfully :)

[@gailberry7818]

She knows how to get down to business without too many unnecessary words. I like how she gets along with it discussing the point that she’s making. I also like that she doesn’t say guys you guys 1000 times like a lot of the rest that’s on here. In my opinion she is one of the best!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much!! 🤗💕

[@moneybee]

Letting go is always the hardest part, but once you do it, you feel heaps better and much lighter! Great video!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes! :)

[@barbarasylvain5060]

Decluttering sentimental items: compose it a letter in my journal, telling about the item and about the giver. Creating its history and giving it meaning in a place I can revisit if I need to do so, or simply being able to say thank-you and farewell, would work for me. I might even keep a beautiful box with letters letting go of the item/giver. I would include what I had gained from having the item but especially what the giver did for me in giving his or her gift. If I felt the need, I could add a picture of it. Writing is important to me, so I frequently journal my minimalism journey anyway. Saying goodbye to something in a letter would give it permanence in my life but not emotional blackmail I sometimes feel because I've hung onto something that no longer gives me joy or adds positive meaning.

[@elizabethg5113]

awesome idea!

[@jaimepoole9842]

I appreciate the reminder to keep the things that make you happy. I notice that I’ve been holding on to sentimental items that make me feel sad or guilty and your video sparked the thought that these are life experiences and relationships where healing is needed. I think that intentionally grieving the losses and forgiving myself is so important before letting them go. Journaling and going to the sacrament of confession are ways in which we can allow God’s healing light and graces in and really give those thoughts and feelings over so we’re not carrying that baggage through the rest of our lives. Then let the item/s go, in a peaceful way. These thoughts and feelings that come up during the decluttering process can be trusted and seen as prompts for what healing we may need in our lives. Thank you, Vera❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing Jaime, so happy to hear the video was helpful for you. Good luck with your decluttering! You can do it 🤗

[@elevationview673]

My lovely wife died in February after battling cancer, I’m devastated. I still have all her clothes and shoes, handbag etc. Not sure when I could let go of her stuff if ever 😢 to be honest I could give up my TV and car easier than her toothbrush. Although I have decluttered lots of other stuff making my home much better. Your videos are great thank you.

[@elainecole6896]

It took my husband 8 years before he could let his deceased wife's items go (before he married me) but he got up one day and knew it was the right time - your 'right time' may be different, but it will arrive!! Be patient with yourself ☺️

[@elevationview673]

@@elainecole6896 thank you

[@sartsansilmukat8471]

You need time. You don't have to rush. You let go when you're ready. Some day... ❤

[@sarah.bea.]

Don’t force yourself to get rid of anything. My uncle died in April and my aunt let go of his belongings surprisingly quickly. She told me, that she does not want to be weighed down by things she can not use, like his clothes, but that she carefully picked out a small number of his favourite items as keepsakes. It might not work for everyone though. I send you lots of strength!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

@Elevation View: I'm so sorry for your loss. I can't even imagine how devastating that must be. I'm with the others who've already replied so kindly. One day you might feel ready to look through her things and let some of them go, and before that I wouldn't rush it. I wish you all the best and lots of strength.

[@KMR323EastLA]

My mom passed away last year and she was a bit of a hoarder, nothing extreme but she did like to hold on to many things and many papers and “just in case” items. I’ve decluttered most of the items. I still have all the photos and cards she kept and drawings/newspaper clippings. I’ve been wanting to get a flatbed scanner so i can start scanning photos and getting rid of the physical photos and having the digital version saved to the cloud so i can still have the photos but without the clutter. And that way i can also share the family photos easily so other people can actually look at them and appreciate them instead of them being stored in a box like they’ve been for years

[@chanyongyaw]

Number 9 really hits me. I have never considered it that way. I keep some items even though they trigger sadness and melancholy (cards, letters, etc.). I'm seriously going to work on this. Thanks Vera!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks, so glad it was helpful for you! :) Good luck

[@feylights166]

I am actually glad you kept those plushies lol. That elephant is so cute!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha yes! I'm happy theyre still around. They are just too cute and I feel like their feelings would be hurt if I gave them up hehehe

[@keithgeronedacuan]

I always try to declutter and try to do what you suggested of doing it 5 mins per day. The only challenge I always have when I declutter is the guilt of throwing the most sentimantal things. This helps a lot! Really!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy to hear the tips were helpful for you! :) There's no need for guilt

[@summerjosie6580]

You are so right, thankyou for this video. Sentimental items can be loved in a way that isn’t clutter ❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks Josie! :)

[@mypurplelephant]

I know I commented this on another video, but as a person who has trouble with clutter due to OCD, I've found your videos really speak to me far more than any other KZbin video and even more than my therapist on this topic lol. I love your logical but very thoughtful approach. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!!

[@jackienegretebenton2404]

Thank you for making an honest video about the hardest to declutter items: sentimental items. It was very helpful and inspirational! Thank you!!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So happy to hear that!! :) Thanks Jackie :)

[@Cecibug1]

I love that I'm able to pass down sentimental things from my childhood to my kids ❤️ I feel like its a good way to reuse them and if they want to let them go then they can.

[@MarielaMerino]

this was so helpful. it is one of the things I still struggle with the most. I also have a box with my plushies that I can't seem to let go of and you made me realize its okay 🤗

[@SimpleHappyZen]

It's okay! Mine are still happy here too haha

[@rhondaroles1633]

When I sort cards, I save some that have beautiful designs on the front to do my crafting!!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Love that! :)

[@sheryl8034]

I remember years ago another nursery mum telling me that she kept every painting, drawing and cardboard model that her little cherub made. All I could think was, what a fire hazard🤣

[@shl9560]

Plus, it dilutes the meaning of each piece. No one would enjoy going through tubs & tubs of that, it's not enjoyable. However, if you keep just a handful of really memorable projects, the ones you keep can be treated like the Mona Lisa.

[@tllw0209]

Hi Vera! I ❤ all your videos. They have helped me beyond words! Just today I let go of my 34.5 year old wedding dress (it still fits and I put it on!) 😀 I am keeping a plush dog that my Dad bought and was in my crib when I was born.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Oh I love that! Thanks Tamara and have a lovely week!

[@kmw111]

Sentimental children's stuff: Each child got their "Time Capsule" mailed to them. They decided what they wanted to keep.

[@sallgal]

I’m moving soon and downsizing so I’ll be watching a lot of your videos again to help me! Thankful to have them.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Good luck with the downsizing my friend! Let me know how it's going :)

[@sallgal]

@@SimpleHappyZen thanks so much Vera! I absolutely will💕😊

[@111-w9d7y]

Love your fluffy ostrich. I do not keep any sentimental things. Either I use something regularly, depending on one of the four seasons naturally. If something is not loved or used out of goes. Have no foot stuck in my life. Guess it comes from previously moving and living between countries. Now am very happy living in Zurich, leading a great minimal and very happy life.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you! The ostrich and Ollie were happy to be back on the channel :)

[@lynby2108]

Great video, taking a photo is such a good suggestion I will try this myself.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you Lynby :) Happy decluttering!

[@ParulSri]

Please give tips on how to convince others to NOT give us stuff or buy stuff for us. I mean I keep asking my family members to not buy somethings for me like clothes but just gift me what I really need, like a whiteboard or a set of colored markers. But then their reaction is that these things you can buy for yourself, or they are not expensive enough to qualify as a gift. I mean how to make them understand that a gift is best when the person can actually use it or needs it, and it need not be expensive enough to qualify as a gift.

[@alolikak5906]

U can ask them politely... "Is MY joy on receiving the gift more important or the joy that YOU get by spending more money in buying stuff that I don't need.."

[@Astri_B]

It is not the most charming option but I do complain to people about stuff I've received as gifts. They know because of that they really don't make me happy by giving me those things. Although my mum does still give me small gifts, but she is the only one that does these days. So, I think it worked with most of them. It is funny by the way. I was in a store with a friend not long ago and I was thinking out loud and said: I am so happy I don't have this stuff. The friend responded with: wow while so many people would love to have this. Perhaps a bit direct, but I said: to me it is trash. And it is, because if I would have it, I would want to get rid of it and then for me it is trash. It is a also a bit of a harsh way of saying I don't want to have gifts I haven't asked for but I think it sticks. They will think to her it is trash, so why give it?

[@Astri_B]

And I ask them if they really do want to buy something to buy food or something else that can be used and be gone. Because I only like to recieve gifts I really want it is very difficult to buy others presents as well, because I cannot imagine that people will like stuff they haven't asked for. So for example I bought my mother and sister each a bottle of very good pesto (just something small) I think at least they can eat it and it will be gone, so they don't have to keep something. And I would like to recieve gifts like that as well. But I do think they should give you the things you ask for when it is a moment for presents, even though they don't like it

[@cathylynnpietranton]

Thanks Vera for the video and the great tips. When I decluttered my sentimental items I just kept the few that really means a lot to me. I will admit it was difficult.❤

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes it's funny how much meaning we can sometimes attach to our belongings :) Thanks for sharing Cathy and have a great week!

[@lauraallen2852]

I needed this video right now as Im slowly decluttering my home snd sentimental items are a huge weakness. I watch your inspiring videos to keep me on track. Thank you 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks Laura and good luck with the decluttering! :)

[@LisasLifeThenandNow]

I remember keeping a Root beer bottle as a teen because it was the last drink my Dad had bought me before we lost him in a race car accident. I finally got rid of it, but I remember how hard it was to let go of that. It was just an empty bottle. But, losing my Dad at 13, made everything he ever touched important to me.

[@walaahaytham218]

Oh .. that is very important for me and emotionally

[@Beavis-et8ox]

Thank you for the video. I really like that you always find some new perpectives to look at things that have been subject of so many videos of others already, never boring, great job. I have scanned a stack of old letters to the computer like 15yrs ago because I felt I didnt want to take all of that with me when I moved to another apartment - and, to be honest, I never looked at the scans since then, but I know I have it and I could, if I would like to one day. This still feels like a good compromise for me.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much, that's great to hear :) And yes for the scanned letters!

[@asparrow5505]

This is something I've been putting off but after watching your letting go video I think I'm ready now 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

YES!! You can do it :) Let me know how it went

[@asparrow5505]

It's scattered here and there in different categories so it'll take me a bit to tackle it all. I'll probably get rid of a lot of stuffed animals besides a couple of my favorite teddy bears that I would bring to kindergarten haha. Loved collecting bears. I guess I'll see.

[@meowcat8571]

Thank you for this video, Vera!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome :)

[@carmenm.4091]

Sometimes it’s a good thing to put an item aside for a while, in one special tote, box or basket, when you don’t know your heart or what to do with the item. It’ll come to you when the time is right. Time is a funny thing. I’ve noticed that this works for me. The next time I’ll see the item I suddenly know what to do, to part with it or not. Sometimes it’s like: oh that thing is in here aswell, totally forgot about it, well time to say goodbye... 😉

[@InfiniteMindset99]

Nice video Veda! It is always a personal decision and many times comes in realizations and waves. Others may suggest but ultimately it is your path. I am definitely a minimalist and keep letting go with another move on the horizon.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I agree, thanks for sharing!

[@jennifertooth4851]

I own what is left of my knickknacks but they seem to me like clutter yet I can't quite declutter them, so for the time being I put them in a small box to look through at a future date. I'm also storing my former mother in law's 4 objects so that her daughter doesn't steal them until she moves to her new apartment. Thank you for the insight on decluttering sentimental items. :)

[@marjiecleveland]

Tip #7 is what really works for me.

[@tajughouse7760]

Thank you vera for sharing great ideas!!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome, have a great monday!

[@Gigi63518]

I needed this!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Good luck, you can do it! :)

[@sunsetpatrol5507]

Hi Vera, great video!! Thank you!! When we moved to an other country to live and we couldn’t take everything with us in our suitcases, I made pictures from those sentimental items that I would remember but couldn’t bring them with us (for example arts and crafts from the kids, we only brought a few with us). The sad thing is that I had one little box with the ring from my mom (she passed away) and the marriage rings from my grandparents (passed away) and the necklace from my grandmother (also passed away), together with a few usb sticks full with those sentiments item pictures and other childhood pictures and movies of our kids and myself as a child. Unfortunately the box got stolen over a year ago. It still hurts (the jewelry not so much though but the usb full with pictures and movies from our kids does still hurt). I am a minimalist for about 8 years now. I love to get rid of a lot of stuff. But that was just my precious box, my sentimental box. And they just stole that from us. I know... Memories are in your heart and not in a box ❤️. That’s what I always try to remember when I remember a memorie which was on one of the usb. Anyways... I love your channel!!! Very inspiring!!! Keep on going 😁!!!!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much for sharing your story! I'm so sorry to hear your box of precious memories got stolen... I imagine that must be very painful to have strangers just go into your personal space and take things like that. That really sucks. I think it's wonderful that you remind yourself of the memories that you still have regardless :)

[@debrastewart6714]

Hello Vera, found your channel, you are a lovely person. Love your great ideas ,for decluttering items ,thankyou so much for your advice, I am in the progress to declutter items that are cenementle to me.im going to hand some things down to my grandchildren now ,before I'm two old . So thankyou so much ,I love listening to you Vera .xo😊💕👍

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much for leaving such a kind comment Debra 🤗🌷 Have a lovely week!

[@elizabethg5113]

thanks for the tip on 'is the item replacable?' we carefully research every purchase over $100. Because it is the best choice of the 200 options, in our mind, almost every purchase is immedietly ireplacable. good food for thought on our journey.

[@tamara5082]

Sentimental items are the most rough for me, a lot of them have negative emotions for me. I`m not sure if its worth it to go trough it. But it would be nice to get rid of some stuff, and in the future just have a small box or basket of sentemental items.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

In my experience, it's always worth it :) Try it and see how you feel :)

[@ctheestallion]

Thank you for this video!!! ❤️Really helpful

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy to hear it :) Thanks Cristina

[@annamuja1831]

Great tips Vera as usual, thank you for your video. Greetings from London.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Anna :) Have a great week!

[@Raczyna]

A friend of mine burned his sentimental items, and now keep the ash in a special little bottle.

[@pavlinajanouskova653]

Cutest thumbnail ever!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha thank you Pavlina :) My elephant steals the show

[@sarah.bea.]

I have become a card fiend. Unless they are super special or exceptionally pretty they are out the door within a few weeks. I do, however, pay attention to them while I have them and will always read a card again before I throw it out.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I do that too :)

[@missrelaxed3872]

It’s so hard to get rid of sentimental items for me. I love this video! Excellent tips

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you! :) And good luck, you can do it!

[@samfdsd2134]

wow your videos have subtitles!! so considerate! i love your channel!!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much :) I always put English closed captions in my videos

[@samfdsd2134]

@@SimpleHappyZen that's why you become my fav. minimalist :) and your points of view are very helpful :)

[@VerenaSatriani]

I am still struggling in letting go sentimental items and also the in case I need items. This video realy brings another inspiration. Send you love, Vera. And all my friends here.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you Verena and good luck with decluttering, you can do it! :)

[@cristinaflores6667]

Hi Vera! Thanks for the video. It is very difficult for me to deal with the things I've inherited. 😪 thanks for your advice!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome Cristina, feel free to take your time with these things. :) No rush!

[@PaintedskiesRankin]

Great show I liked what you said about re gifting I had a numerology book I paid a good amount for and never could get into numerology I pass this book along to a man who had his own practice. It’s been put to good use and I learned how to be more Conscious of what I bought in the future

[@anouk891]

Thanku so much for sharing your process.🙏🏾🌺💖

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome :) Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Tiramisù.2-d6w]

Nice video and very useful tips!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you Patrizia :)

[@hollyf329]

Another great video! I prefer to declutter alone if it's my stuff but I have assisted someone else with their decluttering. I use the digital idea for my cards I have recieved, I take a photo of the message inside then let go of the card.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Love that you're helping someone else with their decluttering :)

[@Janneli2024]

I love my fridge magnets from all over the world great times of traveling wonderful memories 🧡🧡🧡 they are staying 👍🏻👍🏻 I find it hard to get rid of cards that people personally give you 🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️ they don’t have value but it’s from my dad that has passed or an uncle that has passed it’s so hard I have paired them down tho 👍🏻👍🏻 getting there

[@ilonasura3905]

Hi Vera, thanks you for this theme. I play flute and I really love it. And the instrument reminds me the part of my life, when I was very happy, but I had to leave it. It hurts me sometimes, but I don´t want to stop playing. Have you encountered such a thing? Be safe.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hi Ilona, thanks for sharing your thoughts. Yes I have experienced something similar, with my piano. I've played on and off ever since I was 14. It's a bittersweet feeling. It hurts me too sometimes, when I'm in a period when I'm not playing, however those periods when I am make up for it all :) So it's a tricky one. I think most of the time, it's better to have some music in your life :) So I probably wouldn't let go of it. However, it's your decision, and ultimately the pros have to outweigh the cons. Good luck!

[@ilonasura3905]

Thank you, Vera. It´s true. I sometimes feel sad because I have no time for playing. And then I find a moment and I can´t stop playing and I feel so well. I´m happy that I don´t forget it and one part of me is still alive. It is worth the bittersweet feeling, isn´t it?

[@goodintentions1302]

I might be wrong but I don't think I have a lot of sentimental clutter. Ironically, three things I haven't let go of are a large aluminum strainer and a large aluminum pot lid. I did let go of the pot. They were all used on a regular basis by my mother, and sometimes by my father when he made spaghetti sauce. I don't cook with any aluminum and haven't for years. I guess it's time to let go of the strainer, and maybe the pot lid. The third thing, I have never used. I never saw my father use it. When I was born, in addition to working full time he worked part-time as a janitorial cleaner. I have his mop bucket wringer. I have dragged it around with me for close to 40 years. My childhood was far from happy, I knew I wanted to get away from home before I was five years old. Yet I also realize my father's life was quite miserable from birth on, and although my mother claimed to have had a wonderful childhood, I know that could not be true simply based on how she treated me versus my siblings. The things I inherited were things that none of my siblings wanted. In many ways, I realize now, that's a blessing.

[@Samsamhereiam]

I used to think you were this sweet innocent little thing and then BOOM. She has a tongue ring!! Love you even more now 😘

[@SouthernBelleReviews]

Digital cluttering is definitely a thing! Take it from me!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes it is! :)

[@minekeminderhoud9696]

Ik kijk en luister met veel plezier naar je video's! De muziek leidt me erg af, kun je die wat zachter zetten of weg laten? Misschien ook hier minimaliseren en focussen?

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Bedankt voor de tip Mineke! Ik zal eraan denken in het vervolg om het ietsje zachter te zetten. Het verschilt in mijn beleving ook per device en of je luistert met oortjes of niet. Als ik zelf de video's edit, klinkt de muziek erg zachtjes op de achtergrond.

[@theresew9910]

Hi Vera I think taking time to de clutter sentimental items is always the best way never in haste ? You will always know when your ready to let go ❤️

[@clarissa1195]

Oh I just loved it

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much :)

[@jenniferlowe2481]

Love your videos

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks Jennifer! :)

[@petitsjoujoux5011]

The elephant plushie is sooooooooooo cute T_T I've always wanted an elephant plushie T______T

[@SimpleHappyZen]

They're the best! :)

[@averycataldo8533]

Hello! Can you help me figure out how to keep my life organized and healthy??

[@gailleverett1627]

I have 50 years of my Christmas decorations plus things that belonged to my grandmother, my mom, and my aunt and uncle. Some years I have used a few of each. Now everything is mixed up in a bunch of boxes in my basement. Putting like with like may not work this time. I guess I will just have to try starting with a box or two and see if I can pick out the most important things and least important things.

[@lauraneaves6912]

Someone in my life will often give me birthday present or item that they like, instead of what I really like. If I then choose to declutter that item(say donate the sweater I don't like to a clothing store), they are offended when they ask where the item is, or if I wear it. When I open the gift I am thankful but don't feel like it really a thought out gift when it's not something I like...thoughts on how to respond to them?

[@sarah.bea.]

That’s a tough one but I think in order to let this issue go once and for all you need to talk to that person. Tell them how much you appreciate the fact that they gift you these items but that you are very mindful of your possessions and that this shirt or that flower pot just does not get used in your house. Maybe you can share with them that you try to live a more minimal life (or ‘cleaner’ lifestyle) and would actually appreciate the gift of time much more - like a dinner or going to the cinema or cooking together. I think the most important message is, that they see your appreciation for the act of gift giving, even if you don’t care so much for the gift.

[@paulavieira9816]

I love your videos! Do you have any suggestions to declutter books?

[@rachelspoon4741]

Omg at 0:46 that is the flower card!! You know Cardcaptors / Cardcaptor Sakura?!?!?! One of my all time favourite animes growing up and its followed me into my adulthood ^^

[@SimpleHappyZen]

YES!!! Hahaha I've been a big Cardcaptor Sakura fan for years, and I recently watched it again on Netflix haha. That drawing is probably 15 years old...

[@rachelspoon4741]

@@SimpleHappyZen wow that is amazing!!! Never have I came across a huge connection with a yotuber ^^ we both are into Cardcaptors Sakura, Final Fantasy and Pokemon. I reckon if we knew each other in real life we would be close friends ^__^

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Always nice to meet fellow CC Sakura, FF and Pokemon fans 😄

[@Julie-ok5fr]

LOVE LOVE LOVE I loved this, Vera. Feeling thankful today that I discovered your channel a bit more than a year ago ( I think! ) Your conntent always helps me clarify and brings me peace & joy!! You do an awesome job getting to the heart of the matter, always. (#14 ) I am working on this one! It's not our kid's fault, it's mine haha They don't want ANY of their school papers and I'd like to keep far less of them...but I feel like I'm throwing part of their life away. I'm trying🙃

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much Julie for your kind comment, I'm so glad to hear it 🤗⚘🌼

[@lokwinsk]

Every time I get a birthday card or holiday card from the same person, I discard the last one they gave to me. It's kind of like getting card updates. To clarify if I wasn't clear: if I got a birthday card from my mom on my 21st birthday, I will get rid of the card she gave to me on my 20th birthday.

[@ellena858]

Thank you, I needed this help. What are childhood flushies?

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I meant childhood plushies :) So stuffed animals. :)

[@mandykelly6704]

Pictures are a good idea. My daughter gets attached to things, so school things out whatever that she wants to keep but it doesn't make the cut for me, we take pictures of it.

[@calmdowngurl]

Hi. Just found you and loving your vids

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much and welcome to the channel! :)

[@jesy7619]

Please help! Do you have any advice on how to achieve and maintain a minimalist lifestyle while living and sharing space with a hoarder?

[@nixynightmares]

Hey vera! Do you have tips to help me out? I struggle with decluttering some items. They aren't really sentimental anymore just childhood toys and such. But the second I decide for it to leave and try I panic. Tho it doesn't serve a purpose. Do you have anything for this ? If not thats okay. This video was very helpful in general :D thank you

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hi there! Maybe try sorting through it, keeping your favorites and storing the rest at a friend's house temporarily (with their permission of course)? That way, you can see what it would be like if they weren't in your home anymore, and you might feel better about letting them go permanently. And you won't have to panic, because you know you can always get them back if you end up regretting your decision to get rid of them. Good luck!

[@tanyajohnston8262]

take a picture and let the item go. Give to family member if they also love it.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes! :)

[@judysbakeryandtestkitchen1654]

I learned a new word-plushie! Cute stuffed animals. I don’t know how to declutter the 20 photo albums I have. Not all of those photos can be important! I can’t rip out the photos anymore to put favorites in a box. I have arthritis and carpal tunnel.

[@reginaeudy9249]

First you do not need to declutter your photo albums if you enjoy them. But if you want to my suggestion would be to look through your albums and put a sticker next to photos you want to keep. This way you can take your time to make your choices. Then ask a close friend or family member to help you. They can remove the photos you want to keep and you can take that time to share memories and stories with them.

[@judysbakeryandtestkitchen1654]

@@reginaeudy9249 Great suggestion! So far, Ive done 2 small, early phot albumns. Very satisfying to pull out only photos i wanted. Pictures of old boyfriends got tossed!! :)

[@ramintaart]

Luckily don't have a lot of sentimental items in my home. I think not having enough storage really helps me 🙂

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha yes that's a big thing for me too :)

[@johannathorisdottir2456]

Hey you have iceland in wood!!! yeiii have you been there? I would love for you to come and visit someday when the pandemic is gone for good!!! And regarding sentimental items it´s my boys drawings and stuff made in school i´m keeping in a keep sake box in our storage room. Anything else i just threw away i don´t like stuff and i still feel like our appartment is full of stuff!!! And i´m still decluttering and getting rid of stuff feels soo good.... Love your channel and your tips your voice is so soothing

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much :) Yes I visited Iceland in 2013 and it was amazing, I would love to visit again. We were staying in Reykjavík and also visited Snæfellsnes and other places.

[@johannathorisdottir2456]

@@SimpleHappyZen wow soo awesome so glad you liked it!😘

[@minimalzebra]

I have a set space to store sentimental items.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Clever!

[@minimalzebra]

@@SimpleHappyZen Thanks!

[@sheilagarrett7540]

Pass them on to your kids and grandkids. If they don’t want them donate them. Don’t leave the clutter for them to clean up once you pass

[@cosmicpolitan]

I don’t like the idea of storing more than a small piece of luggage worth of sentimental items, so whatever can fit in there can stay. Then once in a while (when I am feeling sentimental ☺️), I go look through that luggage and it makes me feel good - but not at the expense of precious storage space

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Sounds wonderful! :)

[@lynnjames6629]

💯🎯👍🙂

[@ukulelebobby]

👍

[@alolikak5906]

Please don't get rid of the plushies! At this point after seeing their cute faces multiple times, even we can't bear the thought of parting with them... More plushie content..!!😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha they were happy to make an appearance again! :D