Hoarder to Minimalist | Midnight Purge Session

[@marleychloe]

last night i went through my hall closet and tossed out 12 pairs of shoes.. i went through my closet and tossed out a shit ton of stuff that didnt fit.. it felt so good.. i cleaned my kitchen counter too.. its been a catch-all for years.. omg to wake up this morning and see that counter cleared off was the best feeling in the world!

[@christinaruiz4183]

I kept buying planner supplies and never using them. I stopped and wondered why I kept repeating this process. My elephant moment came when I realized I felt my LIFE was out of control. So I believed organizing my time would make me happy. It didn't of course, so I finally came to the conclusion I needed to stop and see what I was really struggling with. I'm working on fixing those things, and the hoarding has stopped. Clutter truly is a reflection of something bigger.

[@wishonamoonbeam]

Christina Ruiz I have so much planned supplies too! I don't use a planner I sometimes like to decorate them but I never use them I really need to get rid of them there all really nice refillable planners and it's so hard to get rid of them

[@gypsyrose8566]

this is what healing feels like!

[@courtneyo8715]

I think consumerism and hoarding are the real sickness. We as humans don't need much. We want to be well fed, housed, clean, and the rest of life's joys don't really involve objects but rather people and experiences. While I think extreme minimalism can be more of an obsessive issue, I think the process you are going through is perfectly normal. A nice clear space can contribute greatly to a calm mind! On a very silly note when you trained the camera on the fish tank I was like "oh no is she getting rid of the fish?!!". Oy vey.

[@kaykerns2287]

Courtney B I thought she was going to get rid of the aquarium too!!!

[@amara560]

Courtney B When I just started out learning more and more about minimalism I too had a strong urge to throw everything away, but that urge has lessened considerably as time has gone by. Even though I'm not 'done' with decluttering yet.

[@livelaughlove4635]

Hah, I thought she was getting rid of the fish too. 🙈😁

[@suestokke1839]

I thought the same thing about the fish. Lol

[@WriterOfMany]

Same! I was like noooo not the fish! Not Ponyo!

[@amandajm11]

I think minimalism should be, like you said in one video, a tool to be used to free us from our attachment and obsession with things. When minimalism become the goal, rather than detachment from things, I think that's when it can become a "sickness." There are time when I'm obsessed with the thought, "What else can I get rid of?" But the problem with that is that I'm still focused on stuff! I think ideally minimalism should ultimately lead us to think less about our stuff, rather than obsessing over it. Does that make sense? the thrill of getting rid of things is wonderful but when we are consumed with being minimalists, we might still be slaves to our stuff, just in the opposite way.

[@amara560]

Amanda MILLER I share your view! At this point I'm still trying to get rid of stuff I accumulated in the years before, but after that I really hope I can be at peace with the things I do have and think about them a bit less.

[@MessyMinimalist]

Well put! I like this, and you're right that it's important to keep focused on detaching from the items vs making a game of having less. ...it's thought-provoking and I now need to go this about this more! Thank you

[@HarrietofFire]

The thing for me is, I was never blind to my clutter, I purposely chose not to care, because I knew if I did care, it would drive me nuts. So once you let it bug you, it all bugs you. You can probably find a balance with this over time. Thanks for these videos! They're helping me get in the mindset of decluttering.

[@megan2176]

Yes! I totally get this way too. It's like the Matrix... I don't remember exactly how that movie goes, but just realizing you're living in a fake place, that's sort of how I feel when I get the urge to purge. Like you realize you were hiding under all this stuff, and when you experience the feeling of freedom/reality, you develop a passion and want to keep going. Not sure I'm making sense, but it makes sense to me! I think eventually we'll end up somewhere in the middle, settling on the things we need and love. Love that you kept the elephant, for now at least, as it still serves a purpose. :)

[@k.l.8804]

Yes! Its just like the Matrix! :) Like you've eaten the red pill of truth and now you cannot un-see the truth (materialism & clutter/crap)! And that truth turns your stomach kind of sick so you just HAVE to get - rid - of - it - all! Only unlike the Matrix, you're fed the truth little by little, so the first time around you only see the obvious crap, then little by little you discover more and more layers of it. Wow - The Matrix - its so spot on because like the Matrix, materialism is a pacifying lie we are fed to stay complacent and not truly live!

[@megan2176]

Yes! Thank you! You explained that so well! So true, you can't un-see the truth, or un-feel the feeling of freedom... or the feeling that you've been tricked, which just fuels the urge to purge. Sigh. So glad that made sense to someone! :)

[@MessyMinimalist]

Megan (and K.L.) - Yes it makes sense to me and I agree 100%. I used to work at several huge advertising agencies creating commercials/magazine ads/etc for BIG brands...and when I finally left that side of the industry I was SO ashamed with myself for my part in it all. I found creative ways to sell shit to people.... :-/ And now after consuming the 'red pill' I realize I can't undo anything, but I can at least try to re-write my own code! ....thank you for the comment. ;-)

[@megan2176]

Wow, so cool that you made that shift, and now are using your creativity to make videos about minimalism! :)

[@MeganLivingston]

Minimalism is not the sickness, hoarding is! I kept things or let things pile up because I was unhappy. Having things made me feel less lonely and then when I realized that I was essentially building walls of stuff around me I knew something had to change. Perhaps you have been holding on to things to fill a void in your life or to sooth a dissatisfaction in life that you have been unable to pinpoint. Once I started purging I was able to start addressing the issues I had been avoiding (job dissatisfaction and loneliness). I changed careers and started online dating. It took 5 years but one day I realized I didn't have piles and piles and piles of stuff anymore. As always, love watching your journey. You can do this!

[@temporarythoughts]

Megan Livingston what a beautiful story thanks for sharing

[@golightly5121]

Megan Livingston : I watched hoarding shows on TV and saw myself in some years down the road. I now only shop for what I need. My piles are decreasing also!

[@MessyMinimalist]

Megan Livingston - Good for you. And 5 years, wow. I like hearing from others who feel they've achieved what I'm going after right now, because it IS a process - one that takes varying amounts of time, but isn't overnight. Nice to hear you're in a better place! If our past selves could only know how good it gets, we'd have made changes earlier I'm sure. ;-) Take care and thanks for watching!

[@gasdorficmuncher9943]

good sickness I quit video games , I don't need dvds their just taking up room reminding of wasting money ..all the food and good times I missed buying shit and wasting time on video games

[@MeganLivingston]

Thank you Ren! I think its important to share. We are all here watching these videos for one reason or another and I think its important for people to know that there IS and end. You wake up one day and there is no more clutter (or so very little that it is no longer a momentous task).

[@SimoneMacdonald]

It's almost like Plato's cave, you've come out of the cave and seen the light and now you can't help but notice everything! Sometimes I find myself going through my wardrobe when I'm supposed to be getting ready for work looking at everything saying no, no, no and make myself late because I have to get rid of those things there and then. We're also waiting to move, most of our stuff is in boxes in family's attics and garages, but I've started going through all the boxes getting rid of everything just because the thought of it sitting there and then coming in to our new home really gets to me and I'm worried that if it enters our new home it won't leave! I do wonder if I'm becoming obsessive but then I realise that once you've discovered a new way of thinking until you've completed your journey it will be a huge part of your life because it's a conscious thought, soon you'll do it without thinking and walk in to your house and everything will be in its place because you did it without even noticing😊

[@chrisi8605]

Nomie Mac it's unhealthy if it interfere with your life and causes you more stress than relief

[@alycialish5]

I have always really liked getting rid of stuff I don't need. I still have plenty of things but clutter gives me anxiety. Living simply is just easier for me.

[@pattiecake11]

My grandmother has one of the weather houses. When it was sunny out, one of the people came out, and when it rained, the other one came out. I was fascinated with it as a child. I haven't seen one of those in forever!

[@tjohannam]

Maybe minimalism as a sickness is a clearing fever for people who are metaphorically sick with consumerism. After the age of consumerism we need the age of non-consumerism just to feel right in our mind again. I can also see minimalism as a consciousness raising movement. :D (For me a pivotal moment was the 2008 economic breakdown and wipe out of economic security. After that why trust the materialistic, capitalistic system that let us down so much?) Just all positive, the cynic in us tells us it is just a fad..

[@ohMamarazziScrapbookingVicky]

Gees, you are a breath of fresh air in this world of aspiring minimalists! I love that you don't preach - and you have the best sense of humour!!! SO glad I found you on YT! I am having a great time watching all your vids - binge watching, actually! Keep being REAL! xxoo Vicky

[@MessyMinimalist]

haha, thank you! I'm glad you're enjoying them - and I'm still an aspiring minimalist myself, so we're all very much on the same level and I think that helps :)

[@strangebirdsir]

You hit the nail right on the head. We attach value to things that wouldn't otherwise mean anything to us. We hold onto things simply because we own them. You should do a giveaway at the end of your journey. The elephant gets passed on to one of your viewers :)

[@aimeeinconnecticut5369]

strangebirdsir that is a great idea! 👍

[@amara560]

strangebirdsir It's been observed that we put a much higher value on items we own. Really something to be aware of.

[@jodigfromfwtx4888]

I am in the middle of a 91-day decluttering challenge (part of a website I follow) and what I am finding, as I am on my last two rooms, is that I am now constantly wanting to go back to the rooms I've already decluttered, to get rid of more stuff that I didn't part with the first time around. The hard part is that these new items carry a greater monetary value so now I am getting much more resistance from the hubby, who sees $$$ getting "wasted". So...I have consented to using time and energy in listing the items to try and sell them. Either way, I want the stuff gone...now I just have to wait longer for that to happen.

[@suetinz]

Jodi G from FW, TX what website is that? A 91 day challenge sounds intriguing - I feel like that would be long enough to make the change permanent! Best of luck with your decluttering and selling :)

[@jodigfromfwtx4888]

Susan Tinsley HI Susan...The challenge is fantastic! VERY detailed in it's design, where it assigns daily tasks to focus on, so getting through your whole house isn't too daunting. The site is www.maryorganizes.com. Mary is a professional organizer. In her annual challenge, she focuses on one room per week. The challenge is completely customizable for your home. i.e. I you don't have a particular room, then use that time focusing on another that may take longer than a week. There are brief pre-reading suggestions to teach you how to declutter and how to get over mental obstacles. Best of all, there is a support system via a special Facebook page where people post before & after pics. It's extremely worthwhile if you can finish your whole house...however, even if you can't, there is no shame. There is a little thing called LIFE that sometimes gets in the way, ha ha. Just pick up where you left off. :) Good Luck!

[@amara560]

Jodi G from FW, TX Very relatable. Getting rid of even more stuff since the initial decluttering. Good luck on selling your stuff ;)

[@amara560]

Jodi G from FW, TX I'm not doing a 91 day challenge, but I can definitely say that being part of a facebook group helped me a lot at points in my journey ^^

[@13jacksonpa]

Jodi G from FW, TX I get where the hubby is coming from. I started by EMPTYING one room. From there everything I intended to sell got its picture taken, and then it was stored in the room. Hundreds of items and a couple of months later, i would have thrown out almost $2,000. Now I have some extra money and a decluttered life.

[@lindapavelkova6470]

Hi Rachel! Thanks for all your videos! What I noticed also by my own experience is when we start noticing all the clutter and realize how much we dont want it around us anymore, it can start weighting us down as unsuccess. I got so high on purging stuff, i went around the house everyday, finding something to put away, just like you mentioned, feeling like i am accomplishing something, like there is good change to come. but this feeling is addictive and once i ran out of obvious things to purge and i still havent felt this light breeze of empty space i felt like a failure and started detesting everything around me, feeling sick of it and sitting in the room and desperately trying to find something else i dont need and would bring me the final point od happiness everyone keeps talking about. clutter blinds us from real problems we have, that is true, many people say it, but cleaning does not solve them instantly so please take it easy:) i made peace with the rest of stuff i have and slowly found my way through even with not exactly a freeing minimalist empty space, and it is much better to realize what you truly want there or not without the emotional rolercoaster around it:) love x

[@ashleyschubert9287]

Oh my gosh I am dying lol, I for sure thought you were getting ready to say you were getting rid of your little fishy lol. I was like nooooooo!!! Beautiful aquarium and thank you so much for your inspiration and such raw authenticity with your viewers. It really means a lot to us :)

[@cassio2341]

I thought she was getting rid of the fish too. I was so upset for a sec lol!

[@meganripley6286]

me too😂😂 but I loved the fishy time lapse

[@laura.redfield]

I've been down the road you're on. I think that the key to not letting minimalism become an obsession is to create a specific vision and then work to achieve it. Envision your space as you want it to be (be detailed; draw it if you need to have it in writing), work until you get it that way, and then just work to maintain it. Best of luck on your continued journey! I love your blog & videos!

[@MessyMinimalist]

Thank you! I like the idea of envisioning it, and I agree it should be unique for everyone. :)

[@zagluna]

I definitely relate to this feeling - once you see all of the mess, you want it gone immediately. But I think that carefully considering each item, donating to charity shops, selling and giving away, and using up things even if you wouldn't buy them again is worth the extra time. Staying up all night, throwing things into the trash, and spending all of your energy stressing about the physical things can be a way of coping with the same stresses and reaction that made you acquire tonnes of stuff in the first place. It helps me to remember that decluttering shouldn't become just a new material obsession; it should be a process, one that requires a re-evaluation of how you relate to stuff and stress.

[@amara560]

Robyn S I totally agree. I've been decluttering for a year now and taking my time. Even though my stuff is my biggest stressor at the moment (because of the high rental prices in my country we had to move to a much smaller home), I feel I would be happier if I take my time to consider the value of everything and not mindlessly going through my house. Even if I am taking small steps, I really feel like I am getting there :)

[@thaliamessmer6835]

I was so excited to see this!!! I wasn't expecting it... since you post on Thursday. all of these mindsets are problems.... if you do not use them wisely. It can become a sickness, just like hoarding. Don't get mad at yourself for wanting to throw everything away, but just remember that you can have stuff! having attachments are still good and sane. I can't get rid of some of my grandma's items and I'm not going to beat myself up about it. be strong!! everything is coming together, honestly. also, I put coins in dishes like those.. it's the only places I can find spare change. that's how I use them:)

[@Sweet_Malou]

Thalia TheVeganDoula so true.

[@kittenpie4854]

You have really inspired me to "open my eyes" and purge items that don't bring me joy. I really appreciate your authenticity when you keep the elephant in one video and purge it in the next. Attachments to items that are not needed is a true mental struggle and I love that you are bringing us along with your decluttering journey. I applaud you!

[@At0micAllison]

"Minimalism" may easily be a fad, but I'm not sure that's really what your channel is all about. When I watch your videos, I see someone who has summoned the courage to rescue herself & her family from the grip of "excess" (in all its many forms). Once you realize the situation for what it is, it's hard not to feel strongly about escaping those old ways of thinking. The "sickness," as it were, is best compared to Stockholm Syndrome, where your clutter was holding you hostage & the fondness or sentimental feelings you can't identify are for the comfort you've found in All. These. Things. you've surrounded yourself with. Once your thinking changes to reveal the STUFF as your captors, it's easy to see why you would want the excess G.O.N.E. I'm still struggling & there have been many phases to my recovery from feelings-based hoarding, but I am still scared of falling back into old patterns. That's what keeps me throwing things away, because if you give up, relapse is always possible. Thank you for your content, for being honest & a source of encouragement.

[@kristinablocher4318]

Ever since I started on this journey I feel almost addicted to it. Every day when I'm cleaning I'm going through drawers and cabinets or using up products I own. It's an amazing feeling to know I'm getting my house 🏡 back essentially. It's an awesome feeling to have a functional beautiful room done. One at a time 🙂

[@marjikelly7951]

I love the elephant metaphor you came up with, So cool. Let me tell you it feels like once a week I purge my bathroom! And I don't keep a lot of crap in my bathroom it is just something I do! And that little foot stool is so adorable and if I had a place for it I would so want it.

[@Daynish4782]

I feel the same way! I've always enjoyed getting rid of things, and everything having its place but there are days I look at everything around me and I just want to throw it all away. I have OCD tendencies and being surround by things that make me feel like a slave to them drives me nuts. What drives me even more nuts is my husbands stuff that he hasn't touched in years, and then I have to end up taking care of those items because I can't stand the dust and crap that they get surrounded by. We live in a small 988 sq ft house and I keep saying this house is too big that I would love to downsize. But, finding a small house that isn't considered a "tiny home" in my area is near impossible. I'm with you, once I get the itch I just have to keep itching it.

[@aimeeinconnecticut5369]

Yes maybe sickness isn't the right word but I totally get what you're saying. Once you experience that shift in POV it's impossible to turn off. I find myself feeling anxious around clutter of any kind - especially in my own house where, these days, it's not really cluttered at all. I have been on my minimalism journey for about a year. I find that, the more you declutter and really curate your life to include only loved or needed possessions, your tolerance for anything else really lessens. You're doing a great job- I really enjoy watching your process and your progress. ✌️

[@MessyMinimalist]

Thank you. It's always nice to hear from others who've been at this for a while. The POV shift is very real :)

[@pegbrown3549]

Finally took some time to go back and peruse some of your older vids. Sometimes the joy an object sparks is saying goodbye to it. I often find myself feeling giddy when I can purge things from my basement (our storage until the house reno is finished.... going on 6 yrs and I'm tired of waiting). I don't feel that's a sickness. My minimalism trip is therapeutic and soul cleansing. You are such an inspiration to finally take My life into my hands and not always being ruled by the clutter/messiness surrounding me! Thank you!!!!

[@EmbraceWithin]

I totally thought about it, but you put it into words, since starting my minimalism journey, I don't know what it is, I do a room at a time a closet at a time, but always find myself looking again and thinking: well, this could go to the donation pile too!... and sort of just "re-doing" the closet/are already decluttered!

[@paperkawaii]

I know exactly what you mean, I felt the same way, I pretty much decluttered everything and no longer put so much value on objects... minimalism can become spartanism (I think thats how it's spelt 🙂) and I think if I kept going I would have become obsessed, if you're a hoarder, it's perfectly viable that you would replace hoarding with the opposite - having nothing. Having partners and children will probably help with this, when I had reached the end of my stuff I realised everything else belonged to my husband, so... you cannot achieve that minimalist ideal when you live with other people.

[@deedeegibson3685]

I'm glad you show when you decide to keep things, as well as when you are getting rid of them. I really appreciate that you are so real with sharing your journey in all its glory and non-glory!

[@luvleeyoga4578]

I love love your Elephant... onyx has lovely energy glad you kept him 🌞

[@MarisDirection]

Who else feels like purging most at midnight? I know I do

[@stepmothercity]

Me too. I think all my stuff gives me stress, and at the end of the day it almost drives me batty.

[@cb9825]

I did it several times )))

[@SophieSeno]

i feel the same. less things means a simpler life for me and considering how fast paced the rest of our lives seem to be we could just be looking for a little freedom from it

[@Rattanamongkhoune]

Definitely love having a bonus video this week! It's really true... feeling like things have value but later on looking again and realizing they have no value, or no value to my life. I've been trying to do this and the more I do, the easier it gets. And I really do love that you're not trying to get down to having all of your belongings fit into a suitcase or something. That's unrealistic (yet I've seen videos of it). I've been watching since Episode 2 in January and you've been so direct and real about your journey that I can really relate. Thank you for sharing every week!

[@SunshineWaterRainbow]

It takes a while to find balance. I have heard that you must first "see" your space as you desire it to be and then drive through until you have reached your goals... As with anything new in our lives, I believe it's simply the overly joyful discovery of something "new" and it excites us. Something that wakes us up, tends to energize us in ways that we were unaware of before and as part of that awareness, we 'crave' this new sensation. Feeling FREE from stuff and the beautiful energy that a calm clutterless space provides is pure nirvana to the hoarder who dreams of having a "house beautiful" of their own. I Absolutely loved the closeness and intimacy of the midnight purge. Like a best friend sharing a secret! Thank you for allowing us all to be your best friends. Your honesty and genuinely pure thoughts are so nourishing to those of us who ARE like you!! I for one, have found my midnight purges to be the most productive. Thank you for your time and energy in sharing your journey with the rest of us who are seeking to be free of the chains of our stuff. These journeys are full of traps and loopholes and all kinds of tricky ways that our 'stuff' tries to stay connected to us. I hear you! The KonMari encouraged advice to "feel the joy" is very much the thermometer for determining what to keep and what not to keep. I have found that I pick up things that actually feel dead, lifeless, heavy... I know these things need to leave, but I too have to work my way through the sentimental hogwash and keep only what makes MY life happy, joyful and FREE! KUDOS TO YOU RACHEL!!! You've got a fantastic spirit. So sweet! :D

[@HiFiDi1]

Minimalism isn't a sickness, hoarding and mass consumerism is (like addiction). Your need to get rid of stuff is your path through the addiction. Super proud of you, you have really inspired me. I feel like getting a shovel and just getting rid of all of it myself.

[@xiovandijk933]

It's a transition really...I can relate. My experience is that The 'storm' will eventually settle and you will find calmness in keeping up your home and not bringing stuff in again. Give yourself time and you will see the (permanent) differences, I promisse .I used to love shopping but now I have learned to really love the things we already have. We just re-decorated a room in the house with stuff we already had, it gave us such a sense of achievement.We embraced minimalism like a year or two ago and we have really come a long way. We used to think our house was too small (!!!) but now we really appreciate all that extra clear space we have :) . What really helped me when parting with stuff was imagining how someone else was going to be blessed with those items I discarded/donated. Hang on to your minimalism journey, you are setting a great example to your children, I know my 18 year old son is proud of our outlook on things nowadays

[@Lashlove16]

I did the kon Marie method last August and I love it .... it's not a phase I not be a hoarder with useless stuff. I would take daily trips to the goodwill and it felt sooo good . I have gone through my stuff again and got rid of more stuff as it can become a high ... but I also had the item for a while and did not use it so now I know I truly don't use it and can get rid of it . It's a great feeling that my bedroom will take less then 5 min to clean .... I too have eliminated items that things just pile up ( bench at the end of my bed had all my clothes piled high) I keep counters free so I put things away as they tend to pile up in 2 seconds ... I have noticed I can't deal with huge clean ups ... like dishes ... I don't mind washing 2-3 but doing a sink full I just can't do it ... so I try to just do things that quick and easy so that way it's not a project

[@vvkelly97]

Ironically I was decluttering my bedroom from 11pm to 4am yesterday while watching your videos.

[@vvkelly97]

You should also probably keep the keys that you are finding. Especially as you are decluttering, you might find something that is locked. And then of course get rid of them when you're done decluttering.

[@michelleisplanning]

I think you should take a picture of the elephant, keep it as your home screen and then get rid of it. I know you now gave that elephant a purpose but at the same time get rid it of physicially. Thanks again for this bonus video, I love how honest you are.. its so true about these ideas we get inside our heads.

[@Readingandgardening]

This video has come at such a good time for me. I feel exactly the same way and it is so good to hear someone else saying it out loud because I thought it was just me becoming ill or over obsessed by it. I constantly look for things to get rid of as I go through my house. Recently the thought of thrifting has become horrendous to me, when before it was a hobby. I completely get where you're coming from. THANKYOU for being so honest !! Xx

[@Samsamhereiam]

I was saying the same thing to myself the other day. I have been decluttering for about a year now and I finally got over the plateau. I started to notice a difference and I couldn't stop myself. Everything I look at is just aggrivating! Thanks for making me feel a touch normal!

[@heykellyb]

I feel the exact same way!! When I started on my more minimalist journey, I would have these times when I was clearing things out that no longer had meaning to me, and I would get this intense aggression to just get them out of my house immediately!! Hahaha, It is a strange and wonderful feeling.

[@jenniferbaker4392]

I totally feel the same way. It's so nice to realize that once you notice clutter that if it doesn't make you happy, why keep it? (unless it's practical and you can find it a home). Everything in moderation (another random generalization that makes me grin) :)

[@jenniferbaker4392]

Lol. Literal Elephant in the room...I've totally done a 180 on getting rid of something like that before too.

[@teressasliger]

I just found your videos yesterday and I love them/you! I have needed to purge for months, years, etc. I have put off doing it except for 10-15 minutes here or there. When I started watching your journey (note - I have read, watched, heard others...) I suddenly felt motivated! Thank you so much for sharing your candid journey. PS. I am an artist (also art supply hoarder) so I have a long way to go, but I can see a glimmer. Started with an area that sadly hadn't been touched in a year or more - the stand next to my chair. Watching this video actually made me rethink some of the things that I haven't got rid of yet from that space! Again, thank you!

[@jessicaklaus7151]

The "sickness" I've developed is frustration over items I don't have immediate control over. I felt anger at the sight of my garage recently because I had so many items that required borrowing a truck and having someone remove for me...I then thought how useless it is to feel such negative emotion when I could practice patience instead.

[@amara560]

Jessica Watson So interesting how minimalism not only changes the way we see our surroundings, but also changes the way we see ourselves, isn't it?

[@estellabolger65]

I completely understand where you're coming from - thank you for talking about this part of minimalism! I too developed the 'sickness' for a few months and wanted to throw away everything I owned, but with the passage of time it faded. At some point you reach a happy balance with the things you truly want to keep. I even 'rebounded' and started to get the urge to buy new things I loved to supplement the space - mind, I only permit myself to buy a small number of high quality things and only after days or weeks of thought, not spontaneously. I also don't remember if Konmari addressed this, but I don't see possessions as static rather more as a continuous cycle. You're allowed to buy new things that spark joy as long as you continue to purge those things that don't.

[@TheLotusrising]

I really appreciate the fact that you shared your late night thoughts , when my roommate and I moved in he had 48 book boxes and I had a commitment to declutter us:) He often states that I am obsessed with getting rid of stuff but there is indeed a reward for clearing your stuff, you get a sense of freedom and time since no longer wading through stuff to get at something or buying doubles or in our case triples because you couldn't find the first one. So thank you for putting it out there that we are not the only ones walking around with a basket looking for stuff to donate :)

[@tanyamaher2762]

I thought this was a great video! I don't think that becoming more minimal is necessarily a sickness but it truly changes your perspective. I've found that even after clearing so many things out I am still constantly evaluating the worth of the items I have. My goal is to one day only have things that I love. I also love that clearing away physical clutter makes me feel more focused.

[@AZHITW]

All I have to do is watch an episode of Hoarders and afterward I walk through my house and rid myself of an item or two. I keep a box in my kitchen pantry and I just constantly drop items in it until it's full and then off to a thrift store it goes. My house is organized, but there is always something you can rid of.

[@rainydaywindsor7953]

I love your thoughts tonight! Thanks for making the effort to stay up and explain that feeling....because I have been confronting the same issue! Thank you.

[@D3thepeople]

You made a statement that the little tray doesn't give you long term joy. I think you got the nail on the head of my struggle of determining joy as I continue my journey! I find it clear and easy to let certain things go and prioritize other things up to a point. But you're absolutely right, some things "spark joy" for me in a momentary way, but it's not something that brings me an enduring enough joy that it warrants a place in my mental and physical space, especially if it is simply ornamental and not truly functional. If it doesn't truly serve me by filling a need I already have, but instead I serve it because I have to "find" a use for it, that's probably a sign that it needs to go. Lol! 💕

[@rachelhanrahan3255]

I have self-diagnosed myself with obsessive compulsive spartanism. I am dealing with the exact same thing: feeling a need to throw away everything in my house. I'm obsessed with decluttering and I really do think it is a mental thing!

[@chrisi8605]

Rachel Pagel spartanism?

[@rachelhanrahan3255]

chris j Yea I know it sounds weird but try to google it!

[@miss_xenia_]

I had the same! Remember to still enjoy your things. Going from one extreme to the other is not healthy either. Over compensating can happen quite easily. I'm sure you'll figure out what works for you! 🤗

[@MessyMinimalist]

Thank you - it's good to pull back to reality for a moment. I think that's why this takes so much time (I predict I still have months of going through stuff), but really I think it's helpful to not get caught in the whirlwind and forget that this is about finding balance and contentment... not the rush of a new game. Take care :)

[@jcqlnr464]

I'm so thankful for your videos because I am just beginning my minimalist journey as well and it's so nice to see someone on here that is going through it too. I have some of the exact same feelings about letting go of certain things that I don't even know why I want to hold onto. So thank you for your videos and advice and it's nice to hear someone having the same feelings I do sometimes about letting go.

[@AllieAtkinson]

This video seriously made me cry! I have been working on my decluttering journey for ten years now. I was doing really well until I moved in with my husband and now I have to justify my need to remove things from my life. I NEED beautiful things around me, but we have so much that is 'practical' I want to keep going on this journey until my home is completely blissful!

[@westviewcommunicates]

Im glad you kept the elephant. I love it! its 10:55 and i just went through my sock/junk drawer and Im about to get rid of a tray collecting junk. Thanks again!

[@courtneyelizabeth4710]

I've been watching your videos since March of this year, and I'm starting to go back and rewatch them because I LOVE YOUR VIDEOS. I've decluttered my house over the summer, and I'm doing a "second purge" since my first initial purge. There's more stuff I haven't used since I first minimized. I always get the urge to declutter after watching your videos!

[@MessyMinimalist]

Thank you so much :) And it sounds like you're doing awesome, keep it up!! :)

[@nicolewells5196]

I love your videos and I love being minimalist. it makes me feel happier and healthier and gives me a sense of freedom.

[@PinkSallyProductions]

Thank for this bonus video! It made complete sense to me, I too am changing habits of a lifetime of hoarding slowly. One of my problems is that I am a great 'up-cycler' & can see a new use for just about anything! So I now try to look at things that I am decluttering without 'staring' at them, otherwise I think of an idea for re-use 😀 I like the 'elephant in the room' significance, lovely to watch your self-realisation whilst holding it! It's great watching all your videos, I admire your honesty & openess. Great going through your journey with you 👍

[@sherri.]

I admit I'm slow at purging but am committed to keep going. In my hair supply bin under the sink I found 7 hairbrushes, 3 blowdryers, and other stuff that I haven't used in over 10 years. Interesting how the clutter goes untouched for so long. You're doing great to getting it out as soon as possible and I love your idea of keeping the elephant in the room as a reminder!

[@Morochis]

It happened to me too! Once you feel that peace and freedom from getting rid of things and seeing how it affects us in a positive way, we just want to keep doing it until we feel we have the right amount of stuff. Its an amazing feeling!

[@jessicaanglen5949]

Loved this video. All of your videos actually, but this one was especially helpful. I’ve been working my way through your playlist. It’s all so relatable. Thank you for the inspiration.

[@courtneyj3636]

The first item was a weather house. It’s used to ‘predict’ rain. When the male pops out it is humid, and the female when it’s dry out. I’ve always wanted one of those to put by my kitchen window. It was so lovely.

[@Kyaide]

I so relate to the part you said about the little glass tray and jewelry. It is cute and nice to look at, but it encourages laziness. Thanks for sharing.

[@sharonschirman4190]

Thanks! Just purged the dreaded cabinet in the kitchen with all the paper plates/cups/bags/ etc.

[@roseandisabella]

I love the honesty of your videos! I recognize a lot of my own feelings when I was at your point of the minimalist journey that you are now experiencing. You're doing an amazing job!

[@MessyMinimalist]

Thank you! It must be part of the 'stages of becoming minimalist' (perhaps a future video??!), 1. Room envy in minimal homes 2. Desire to change your own space 3. Purging of items 4. Disgust of items that haven't been purged .... ;-)

[@roseandisabella]

That'd make a great video! Sounds about accurate to me!

[@dawnwitt8583]

Profound!! I'm still working on the initial purging. Thank you for sharing your journey.

[@sydneyannemoeller]

Oh my god I feel this same way on the daily lately.. it makes me sick seeing how much I have now all of a sudden!! 2 weeks into this journey and I'm about to donate/sell and CRAP load of stuff!! My entire dining room, table floor completely COVERED in stuff... love your videos! You inspire me daily to clean house and keep decluttering and minimizing!

[@jenniferpeterson5152]

I am SO happy to have found your channel, you are inspiring! Thank you for doing what you do!

[@lauraaston3704]

You know, I have always been a clean and tidy person. My family just raised me that way, and youre the opposite from what you say in your videos. What I like about your videos though is that you do a great job of explaining why you want change in your life. Your videos have actually helped me minimalize some of my "elephants in the room", objects that I don't quite know why I keep, or just keep for fear of needing it someday down the line. Thank you for being a positive force in my life and for making videos! I hope you continue on because you just gained a new subscriber :)

[@MessyMinimalist]

Thanks for this comment :) I'm glad to hear I could help in some way as you make your own mental shifts! Thanks for subscribing and good luck to you :)

[@lifewithmrsclark]

Love the Elephant Inspiration piece :) Maybe you can sneak it into your future videos and we can play an eye spy game trying to find it :D

[@ShantellyLace2]

Sentimental that can't be pinpointed or for the wrong reasons...that's very deep. Thank you for the insight.

[@MegLivingInsideOut]

Hello Rachel, I really needed your example and encouragement. This video in particular has really helped me. It's​ really special to be apart of your journey confronting the elephant. I'll keep working on my clutter-junk and I know you'll keep working on yours. MUCH LOVE! 😊

[@MessyMinimalist]

Hey there - I'm glad this video helped you. :) It can get tough digging through possessions, but I guess it wouldn't be much of a journey if it was all easy. Good luck to you - I'm sending clutter-free vibes to you! ;-)

[@amara560]

Keep these videos coming! You are one of my favourite KZbinrs at the moment ♡ So honest, transparent and wise :)

[@MessyMinimalist]

Thank you - I appreciate this comment!

[@jodyhuntsman4126]

I love these purging videos I don't care what time! Good job!

[@pen5532]

Great points. Anything can become a sickness....even good things when they are done in extreme excess AND have a negative impact. The negative impact part is the key!!! I find that simple surroundings make me feel better... relaxed, focused, etc. These are positives for me. :)

[@roxannedanielson9375]

It was nice to see an extra vlog this week. Thanks

[@juliarose7547]

I can't tell you just how much everything you said has been rolling around in my brain. I am not messy, and have always been leaning towards minimalism, but since I am now an official "minimalist" after watching the Netflix film, I question everything, and it is constant, and it is never enough. And even though I know I need "some" things to survive, it sometimes feels like I wish I could live out of a suitcase and be ok with that. But the irony is that I am a homebody, I don't want to travel endlessly, so some stuff is essential. But honestly, every feeling you described or said you couldn't describe, I've had and continue to have. I live across the street one of the largest and nicest outdoor malls (in Honolulu)...but I avoid it because I no longer shop for recreation. I could cheat and say I' just taking a lovely outdoor walk, but that would be an excuse. I've quit my recreational online shopping. Lululemon still cries out to me, but I'm fighting it. I do allow myself to buy food/vitamins/supplements and anything that is consumable and necessary. So now the challenge is to "unsubscribe" and delete anything that is tempting. I so appreciate your videos. And without sounding like this is an insult, you really weren't kidding when you called yourself messy, so your victories are huge compared to mine. I started with very little, was never messy, but still have a ways to go and there is no end to this journey. But this is a good thing. Keep up the good work and keep passing it on.

[@whitneytarske4063]

I am pretty sure you are my spirit animal! I enjoy the videos you post and they really inspire me as I am on the same journey. I literally have the same elephant that I have had the same issue with. It's cute, I got it at an antique shop, but I didn't really care about it at all. After watching your video I decided to keep it as " the elephant in the room." It meant nothing to me and now it inspires me. Thanks for doing what your doing!

[@MessyMinimalist]

haha, that's awesome :) My elephant means much more to me after this video too! hah :) I'm glad you're feeling inspired. Good luck!

[@EverydayMama]

I think anytime you are not content, you are searching for something...either to get or to throw out....it is the same feeling, just opposite ends of the spectrum. We are all searching for contentment. I have found I personally need less stuff to make room for more joy but that isn't true for everyone. We all just need to give ourselves some grace. Give yourself some grace, my friend. :) I am enjoying watching your journey and I wish you the best!

[@MessyMinimalist]

Thank you. I've been working on a post about a similar topic and I can't seem to finish writing it -- but it's about contentment. I very much agree that we're all searching for contentment (or should be). Happiness/dopamine is an addicting distraction, but I believe that contentment is where joy and peace lives. Take care

[@lisam7036]

I totally agree. Great video. Thanks

[@anouk.baasdejonge]

I have declutterd al my belongings like 2,5 times and I still find things that I do not understand why I kept them in the first place. But it definitely is a thing that once you start on minimalism, you keep decluttering it's like an adrenaline kick!

[@MsMcKennaLynn]

I definitely agree with you....I have noticed a huge change in the way I look at stuff since I have started decluttering! You made me think harder about it! Loved this video🖤

[@MessyMinimalist]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it. It's kind of crazy how much change happens mentally as you set off to minimize/detach from 'things'. Clearly it's all part of the process, but it's a one-way road for sure!

[@sheliagore6541]

great video. thanks for sharing this late at night it was on your heart. yes and there are individual out here who can relate to you and there is others who cannot but thank you so much for sharing that it is so true when you need to declutter and get rid of things people do become attached to items that was sentimental and they need to know the reason why they're letting go and not continue to bring in things to take up space or what they are bringing it in that space. Thanks.

[@jennifercahill7397]

I'm not quite there yet as I still have trouble letting some things go BUT I also think about things that I want to get rid of so I can definitely see where you are going with this. I think it's a good thing. I know I have been struggling with "the stuff" for years and now that I finally seem to be making progress, it gives me this "thrill." Like you get when you buy stuff. It's definitely freeing. I think even if you were blind to it, it was still affecting you subconsciously maybe. Good on you for picking up on things that breed clutter for you. I have the same weird sentimental things without knowing why as well. I like the idea of holding onto the elephant for inspiration and then passing it on.

[@alisongraham2807]

Thank you for being so honest and so real, no KZbin fluffiness! I think about this too. My thoughts about the reasons minimalism has taken off at this specific point in time are that we are so bombarded by the outside world, media, technology. We have the burden of knowing too many of the horrors that go on in this world, the news seems to be predominately bad and I for one feel the helplessness of not being able to change all the horrible things I see. I know along with that comes the wonderful technology of being able to watch you in my living room over the ocean. And I don,t think it's a coincidence that Hygge has also taken off at this time. Minimalism and Hygge make good partners because really they are both looking for a way to gain peace and comfort in your own little space in this world. Hope you slept very well after you finished that night. :)

[@MessyMinimalist]

Yes to this comment. I agree about people internalizing the chaos going on in the world and trying to control something in our own lives more. Technology is wonderful, but also overwhelming at times with what it brings into our minds. I did sleep well, thank you :)

[@beckyholland4309]

This is so insightful...thanks so much, even though this was 2 yrs. ago. I feel these feelings!!!

[@kendratyson7441]

“Free feeling” is what I love to experience as well. The reason I think many say this is a sickness is because this is something in your life you can control. Some life or more life events happen without any person control; In the emotional aspect at least. The less stress we have, the better we feel.

[@Skipperclan]

I just found your channel today and have been watching your videos as I work. This one I had to comment on because THIS is where I am!! I think this is a good stage to actually tackle memorabilia, not because I think I will toss it all, but because I know I can keep the 'best' items and be okay with getting rid of some of the unnecessary. I just want LESS stuff and more experiences with the people I love.

[@KarronAngel]

the first item i think used to be called a weather vane in the uk xxxxxxxx

[@alycialish5]

My parents have the exact same one! It shows changes in humidity and weather pressure. The lady or man move if it's going to rain n whatnot. 😃

[@chrisiestevens1143]

I have enjoyed watching your videos because it means I am not alone. I am purging daily and it seems like the piles will never end.

[@MessyMinimalist]

hehe, I hear ya! They never really do end.. ;-) Perhaps one day tho! Good luck! :)

[@kellsmum1]

Great motivation!! I love the dragonflys. Such a soothing voice for videos too ☺

[@pandasky23]

Thank you for sharing your journey. I'm going through a smiling process. Your videos are so relatable and you seem like a lovely person. Looking forward to more videos. ♡

[@MessyMinimalist]

I'm glad you're enjoying them :) Thanks for following my journey/process :)

[@Zuzu-72]

Wow! The elephant in the room really hit home for me. Thank you!

[@MessyMinimalist]

You're welcome! It wasn't the intent of my video, but it's sticking pretty hard with me too!

[@mallorywang5568]

Have you ever gone on a no-buy? If so, I'd love to see a video on it. I'm trying my first 30 day no-buy, though I'm making the exception that I can spend money on experiences, just not things. Going and seeing a movie I would qualify as an experience, for example. That lovely candle at Bath and Body Works? Thing. I'm hoping this'll break me out of the rut of always being on the search for "the next best thing".

[@kellsmum1]

Sorry to be a pain. I just really look forward to these they help so much. Hard to find others so honest and real

[@laurakochuyt1387]

What I've noticed for myself is that when I put something in the maybe pile and have given myself some time and space to think about an object, I usually end up WANTING to get rid of it. Or maybe it isn't in the maybe pile and that I've just acknowledged its existence and then realized later that I don't want that lying around.

[@sandraisaksson7853]

I don't think minimalism as a sickness, I think it's more like.... Well when you have gotten into the minimalism mindset "you have broken the spell", and the sickness was materialism. Like you've been blind but now you can see and feel what you truly need of your home and your lifestyle to be happy. Good luck continuing on road to minimalism :)

[@bonniespruin6369]

I love your videos. I'm hoping I can become more like you. You are so real and that is so motivating.