Minimalism for Beginners: Where to start & how to SUCCEED

[@TheMinimalMom]

THANK YOU for watching! You can find Dana's book here: amzn.to/3fA4rwv and her blog & podcast here: www.aslobcomesclean.com/

[@TheAtWhatCostBlog]

Yes! I needed this motivation! Great timing....and the gold panning analogy was well...solid gold. 😆🤗

[@JustBrenda55]

Oh how I need help. I have all my moms quilts that my grandmothers made. Many are torn and ragged. How can I get rid of them without guilt?i have pictures in many many boxes. I have papers out the wazoo! I have two bookshelves of geneology that my mom researched and put together. She passed away in 2016. I don’t know where to start. Any advice at all???

[@EditorSJ]

bitty

[@NLY1WAY4U]

@@JustBrenda55 I went thru pics, rid of duplicates, gave some to relatives and reduced down to albums. It was time consuming, but worth it. Do you think you could refashion the ragged quilts into a wall hanger quilt? I have seen those in homes and they are beautiful! Take pics of the ancestry info and put on a jump drive? I am trying to do bks now!

[@JustBrenda55]

NLY1WAY 4U great idea on pics! I thought about washing the quilts well and displaying them one every month maybe... thanks for reply.

[@helenanagnostopoulou8710]

"I spent the first 2/3 of my life acquiring stuff only so that I can spend the last 1/3 getting rid of it. What a stupid game of consumerism Americans play." Read this today. How true it is!

[@TheMinimalMom]

So true!!!

[@Nan-59]

Yes!!! ME, too!!! Are used to keep my house clean is it when we first got married in the first 10 years of marriage. But then I got sick with Phibro and arthritis at 30. My house went to total chaos and crap, and today I’m 61 and now my original house where my husband, ex-husband lives is a disaster still in the house I’m in is also a disaster because I brought a lot of my things over to this house. So much to do and I’ve been so sick but I’ve been feeling better because I’ve been using a new herbal medication. It has so far, praise God, changed my life!

[@angelique00angelique]

Love this!!! Where did you happen to read that?

[@helenanagnostopoulou8710]

@@angelique00angelique It came up on my fb page. becoming minimalist (Joshua Becker) posted it.

[@roxannaalejandro1961]

The cult of consumerism documentary-KZbin

[@courtneydykes434]

When I first started, I walked into each room and thought “what havent I used or touched in 2 weeks?” those things went. That was a huge difference! Then about 3 months later, I went back and did this again except I took it down to one week. “What have I/we not used or touched in a week?” and I got rid of that. I don’t regret any of it and I don’t miss anything!! Not only is my home more manageable and I can spend more time with my children, but my mental health in it’s entirety is absolutely amazing! So peaceful & genuinely happy!

[@laurelin4401]

Goodwill is open again in my state, and today I dropped off an entire van load of stuff, which included three 22 gallon totes, and three other boxes, all full! It was quite thrilling, especially since all of my decluttering has been sitting in the corner of the basement for the past two months. What a difference it makes in our house and in our lives to pass on the stuff we're not using!

[@TheMinimalMom]

WOW!!! Way to go, that is SO awesome!!!

[@susanholland6828]

Wow how awesome. 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼You must feel amazing!💖💖😘

[@NorGallaFamily]

I'm jealous ours are all slowly opening up... i have piles of bags that need to leave! Great job Im sure it feels wonderful!!!👏👏👏

[@davidawilliams8603]

😍😍😍 that's amazing!!!

[@NJG85]

Good Job!! Enjoy your home!

[@briellejoysmids3132]

A little while ago, I told my brother ( who is 25 with his own house) about minimalism .I showed him your channel, so he tried minimalism in his kitchen then sent me a video of his simplified kitchen ! He said it feels SO much better! Now I send him some of my favourite videos of yours, Dawn!

[@junemaguire9988]

My mother used to quote, one spends the first 50 years of their life acquiring things and the last fifty years getting rid of it all.well done to be doing this young.

[@terristewart6119]

An additional thought: I have helped some elderly family members clean out their homes when downsizing. It was overwhelming!!! I decided I did not want my son to ever have to deal with that! So living a more minimal lifestyle now will be better as I get older when I may not be able to do the physical work of decluttering. (I tell my son he is going to REALLY thank me someday! Haha!) You are a great motivator & encourager! Blessings!

[@rebeccaanne3083]

I have done that as well and also felt the same way.

[@denisejones1863]

I was very ill for a while and cleaned out my closets with the thought I might not be here much longer. Boy, did that help me let go. I do tell my family to just bag stuff up and not to feel any pressure to keep my things. Jewelry and family heirlooms are different.

[@MN-br5nb]

True that. I don’t want my kids to cuss me out

[@chalktalkwithshari4173]

My sister, niece, and I cleaned out my parent’ home when we moved them into an assisted living facility. I never realized what hoarders the were because my mom utilized closets & cupboards to the max. We had bags and bags and bags of trash, donations, and give-away. We found clothing of Mom’s in sizes 14 down to 8 (she was a 6 or 8 at that time). I never want to do that to my kids.

[@Ellaodi]

This strategy is called swedish death cleaning. My mom always limited our stuff to one small tote each, christening gowns to college graduation photos, special favorite cards we made her, etc. Im VERY grateful. My dad on the other hand is a packrat, but hes making great money on ebay now! #family minimalism

[@CookiesAndCosmos]

I grew up listening to Daryl Hoole (because my Mom was listening to cassette tapes of her books). She reinforced the idea of "success breeds success" by saying that if we open a closet or drawer and it is cleaned out and organized, it says to us "You are a success, Homemaker! You are doing so well!" and that helps us feel really good about what we have accomplished and our next task is easier. If we open those same things and they are messy and we can't find things, it says to us that we are not doing things well. We get discouraged and our next task is harder to do. It is a very subtle thing, but I have found this to be true. The idea of always having at least that one success (in her case, the dining room table) under her belt, sounds like the same idea, but said in a different, but wonderful, influential way. I am grateful for you Dawn and how you help me to surround myself with like minded people. It really does help! You inspire me to keep going. You give me great ideas that really help in the process!

[@meun96rd]

Yes yes yes! I minimized my kitchen and placed the “extra” in an accessible tote in another room. About 2 weeks into it I realized that we were constantly running out of spoons so I simply added 4 more spoons...problem solved and haven’t needed to get into tote in 3 months. Planning on donating item this week

[@catherineroeder9336]

What a great idea!!

[@danielles7091]

Yeah! What is it with spoons? There’s never enough. My husband is constantly, “Where are all the spoons?!” I was mad at him last week and hid them all!! 🤣🤣🤣

[@myrnarenoud3056]

I’m not a minimalist for the most part but I do like order! One of the best and most surprising declutter s I’ve ever done was our walk-in closet. I decided to try minimalism with my clothes, shoes, etc. Oh, my goodness! What a shock! I LOVE walking in there now and knowing every single thing I see is something I enjoy wearing! Thank you for giving me the courage and direction to accomplish that!

[@carolgeorge6409]

I have that on my list.

[@reallifelove]

Yes! You are really helping me put into words that inexplicable anxiety that I get just sitting/walking around my own house - it's the clutter! The silent to do list! The countless and endless tasks my piles of objects are forcing me to tackle! This HAS to stop. I'm also thinking - minimizing does not equal less character, if anything it helps you define and refine who you actually are, when you actually get to the point where you can hear yourself without all the extra noise that is brought on by meaningless clutter.

[@briellejoysmids3132]

Dawn , you are such an amazing KZbinr... and my favourite KZbinr! I have been watching your videos for a year or so and just LOVE THEM !!! I am 13 years old, and inspire ( or try to ) my mom to minimalize ... and she is going... as you say.... onion layer. LOL ! I use your key phrases all the time when helping her minimalize. She is a big fan of you too ! haha! Thank you for all your videos !!!

[@lindseyberrum]

Mine too.

[@JustBrenda55]

Brielle Joy Smids God bless you sweet child! Learn NOW to not hang onto everything that passes in front of you. You will be much happier in your golden years when you hardly have to strength to go through things. And all those years between now and then will be calmer. Also, get ahold of your spending and saving while you are young and be money wise! Hugs sweet one!

[@briellejoysmids3132]

@@JustBrenda55 Thank you ! I have learned a lot from minimalism ! Thank you for this ... this is very encouraging ! A big hug !!

[@daisyr.bontrager9556]

@@briellejoysmids3132 your post made me smile 😍

[@cassysatterfield5860]

Dawn, I think this video was so needed. KZbin is cluttered with a ton of different minimalism videos but often it’s never explained or at least not explained well. Thank you for taking the time to do this. ❤️❤️❤️

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you Cassy, I greatly appreciate that!!

[@TheJojo01902]

I agree. This ‘intro to minimalism’ should be the first video people watch. I particularly like the reminder that initial success leads to subsequent success.

[@AtoZenLife]

Cassy Satterfield So many videos are young people without kids - just not relatable as a minimalist mom. I love that Dawn uses color and has furniture! It’s all about what makes you happy. ✨

[@amelaolsen4580]

I needed this video like last year! Lol

[@coloringwithd]

I completely agree. So many seem unrealistic or there are gaps in the explanation.

[@smokeytrailcottage]

I had a child that came over to play , ask my daughter if we were poor cause she didn't have a pile of toys on her floor. So that how we have had people look at us. That Christmas someone left a ton of Gifts on our porch. They must have thought we were poor. I tried to find whom gave the gifts but couldn't so we brought the gifts to the homeless shelter. Around Easter, I was asked If we had a Good Christmas. It didn't click then. Couple day later it did. I know now whom the person was. Ran into the person and asked if it was them, Sure enough it was. I explained that we were in need of the gifts and Thanked them for the thoughtfulness they had done.

[@onairwitherika4644]

I just want to comment on the fact that i am drawn more to your channel over many other minimalists for many reasons, but the main being that you are NOT AFRAID of color in your home. I find white walls, white furniture etc is very boring for ME and not my style. I absolutely love that you bring color in to make your house cheery and inviting.

[@theqcmunk]

I just found your channel and LOVE THIS. Since decluttering, it feels like our house’s personality shines through. It’s not stark and white, it’s colorful, calm, fun, happy, etc!

[@ahoardersheart]

Oh I need to hear this!!! Lol I’ve been trying to declutter my hoarded house and move into more of a minimalist lifestyle ⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@crystalputman9621]

Dawn, your channel has helped me so much!! I finally have my house back even though I still have a long way to go. Just had to say that because your videos help me to see the light at the end of the tunnel, however this response is more so for A Hoarder’s Heart. I’ve found many channels that have helped me in different ways, A Hoarder’s Heart for example helps me to recognize reasons and feelings that in the past prevented me from getting rid of things and when I find myself getting stuck you talk through your struggles which helps me to keep going. You are truly inspirational! A couple of other channels you should watch if you don’t already are Erica Lucas and ClutterBug, there are more that are super helpful but these three have helped me the most. You have done awesome in your journey so far, and Dawn thank you so much!!

[@celianicoll7060]

I've watched a few of your videos Hoarder's Heart. Keep persevering! You can do it! The rewards will be worth the struggle.

[@caitlinrl630]

You can do it!!!

[@suezannek9483]

I watch your videos too! You’re doing great

[@paulacroly8865]

Me to

[@ashleyburgeson9653]

Stumbling upon your channel back in August as I was searching for filing solutions was a life changer! When I began my quest for solutions, I thought I was needing (and going to find a video about) a bajillion file folders and a proper order for them and then a huge cabinet to hold it all. Instead, I came to your paper clutter videos and... 🤯🤯🤯... I simply needed to develop a system for paring down the paper! Who knew??? I don’t need to keep all the paper that comes into my home!! Since then, I’ve gone on this decluttering journey and I finally feel like I can breathe again. So, thank you! You are making an incredible difference in people’s lives. 💕

[@winneads8775]

Thank you, Dawn, for cheering us on in an upbeat, realistic way. My father grew up in the Great Depression and I learned for him to save ANYTHING that could someday be useful. I'm slowly learning how to let go of things. Thank you for teaching me. 🤗

[@katieallart1292]

Taking things off the counter was/is huge for me!!! Thank you for this tip! So helpful. Ok, I’m going to clear my fridge too!

[@Leighfrance]

“What am I keeping out of guilt?”-Dawn... so true about the anxiety and the value of the relationships. So looking forward to the book club.

[@poppyseed389]

love how open and airy your house looks without all the excess clutter. we are on our way to minimizing, but still have a lot to get rid of!

[@gingersnap3684]

I agree. It looks so calming and peaceful.

[@kanymkulova_dinara]

That’s exactly what I wanted to comment about!) Their house looks so fresh and welcoming!!!👌🏼

[@beckyharding6571]

Same!

[@donnatrobaugh1676]

I'm in my third year of practicing Minamalististic living. It all started when we thought we'd move. I work on it constantly and my house is so clean-easily,! 😃. Keep color in your homes as a treat for the soul! I'm a furniture artist who adds color, so it's fun and uplifting.

[@AtoZenLife]

We have been on a minimalist family journey for 5 years now and we are so much happier! We actually moved to Europe and now have to get stuff for our new home and I am being VERY careful with what we bring in. Love this! ❤️

[@viconmypc]

Amen! I love not having tons of stuff! I'd rather not waste precious time cleaning and organizing stuff. Admittedly, our start to minimalism was unique. We felt God wanted us to homeschool our 3 children 😳 and that meant I needed to quit my corporate job and cut our income in half. So we took downsizing to an extreme and it was ALL worth it! Sold the house, drove old cars, cut out cable and unnecessary subscriptions, didn't update wardrobes for several years (for ourselves), and only shopped thrift for the kids (they never cared and as adults they still prefer this method). The investment became the children's education, their spiritual life, and lots of quality family time and that is priceless! Minimalism was the result and an excellent side benefit to this huge change we made. We're done homeschooling and I still plan on keeping things simple, quality, and minimal. ❤

[@tammychipper5590]

I've been decluttering all through 2020. I finally figured it out after watching your's & Dana's videos. My kidlet (15) came to me yesterday saying how awesome our space is feeling with so much stuff gone. Sold or gave away almost all my storage type furniture. Cube cabinets, shelves, bins, etc. So, easy to clean now too. So glad I found you!!

[@tatianabuchanan3627]

So I’ve been binge watching your videos and I cleaned my whole house last night and got rid of a huge bag of clothes as well some of sons clothes and bunch of other stuff we don’t use but see everyday. Thank you! It feels like every time I put something away or give away it’s like a Little Rock is off my back.

[@77andsunny]

Dana’s 2 decluttering questions: Would I even know I owned this? Where would I go to find it? You ladies are a good pair!!

[@catofthestill]

I saw a suggestion of the 20/20 rule if I can get it in 20 minutes for under $20 then it can probably go.

[@moderndays.oldways2609]

Its like you read my mind. I'm actually in the middle of reading "Decluttering At The Speed of Life". I took several weeks break from my decluttering for a little mental break, but thanks to your constant and timely encouragement I'm back at it

[@sinkintostillness]

Big impact for me was to clear the space I can see from my bed. It helps me to wake up feeling less fatigued with stuff. It is s little effort to make sure they're clear at the end of each day but it is so worth it to wake up this way. Everything else just begins to pull together from there, gradually working through one small space at a time.

[@margal3120]

Samantha Ralph that is a GREAT idea! Thank YOU for that inspiration / motivation! 😁😎👍🏻

[@tammyforwood7741]

Luv your vlogs!! I started getting rid of stuff 20 years ago starting with dressers and using closet organizers. Nick nacks, pictures, went too. Another great decision. My home became less heavy more light and like you say more room to breath fresh clean air. Today I still do clean outs and I always feel better getting rid of what I call dust collectors. People visit my home and say your home is beautiful and you have so much room. I luv it

[@moniquefuselier7711]

Yesterday, I had my girls help me take down a sort of art gallery that we had on our living room walls--leaving just one piece of art on each wall--the change was amazing and unprompted they kept saying: "It looks so big in here, It looks so big in here."

[@TheMinimalMom]

That's awesome!!!

[@shaunaconnell9102]

For real dawn im so thankful for your channel. Like you talk about everything changed when you minimize your stuff... its amazing. In 6 months i went from a very cluttered overwhelmed home to owning a decluttering/ organizing business!!!!!! Its insane! Thank you so much

[@teresa4565]

Watching an old video and something stood out immediately... You said when people walk in you don't want them to think you were robbed or 'moving', and that's exactly right, when people move they do this kind of living because it's most calming and the nicest way to show a property. Why not live this way and not just when you're about to move - so yes I love this style so much..

[@dandm20]

I'm loving this minimalistic lifestyle. I feel less overwhelmed. We started in our kitchen. Cleared the counter leaving just what we use daily. I wish I'd done this earlier in life. We now purchase what we absolutely need. So far so good. I'm so glad I found your channel. At 61 I no longer want to worry about clutter, unnecessary spending. I now feel less really is more.

[@shaynaformity1384]

I had a collection of sparkly colorful butterfly magnets on my fridge that totally reflect my personality. What a surprise when I took them down! I literally breathed a huge sigh of relief. And then the clutter above the fridge became glaringly obvious to me, so I put all my plant supplies in the cabinet that I minimized a few days ago, and put some ice-pack thingies I haven't needed into the donation bag. Now I'm back in my living room, and when I glance at the pass-through into my kitchen, I no longer see a mess. Wow! I wasn't even aware of that mess, but now that it's gone, I can feel how it affected me. Thank you, Dawn! It makes such a difference to just TRY something, even if it seems like it's not going to suit. You can always put the stuff back up if you want to, so why not?

[@karolodom]

So I cleared off my kitchen counter... it looked so strange but after the first day it felt SO GOOD. So next I cleared off bathroom counter and now I going through the entire house! Thanks so much Dawn you are the best!! ❤️

[@misssonyalee6159]

❤️👍🏼That's what I want to do too

[@carolgeorge6409]

That what I want to do, but first I have to clean out and get rid of stuff in my cabinets 🙃

[@carolgeorge6409]

I keep running into these BUT FIRST!!!’

[@karolodom]

@carolgeorge6409 check out Dana K White. She helped me get past the “but first” She has a GREAT decluttering process that has really worked for me…. Without making a bigger mess 😊👍🏻

[@theproductivemommy8169]

Yes!!! To having clear kitchen counters!!! First of all the visual clutter is gone and second it’s so much easier to clean and wipe of the counter!

[@dawnshepard3629]

You are hands down my favorite KZbinr! I love your channel. Your videos speak to me. Thank you so much!!!

[@TheMinimalMom]

Is it just because we have the same name?? ;) THANK YOU, that means more than you know!!

[@mjcossel6136]

Agreed!

[@nancygraceful]

”you’ll come over to this side of the fence...THEY’RE the weird ones!” Yes yes yes! Thank you Dawn- you’ve made my home a MUCH more enjoyable place to be 🏠 ❤️

[@cindyhall9823]

Thank you for helping me declutter my home! Everytime I want to get motivated to just start I turn on one of your videos about that area of my house and watch/listen while I work! Then I don't want to stop 😊

[@intricatedesert]

I started watching your channel about six weeks ago. You are so down-to-earth and the ideas you share have impacted my life in a wonderful way. The kitchen is done and small appliances are out of sight. This week I went through my closet keeping the clothes I really like and are my size. What made it manageable was that I only took five things out at a time instead of everything at once. This time I was not overwhelmed. I’m using your techniques to finally truly declutter, organize and let go. I love it! Thank you.

[@shilohpointfarm8544]

You've really inspired me! Closet? Check. Book shelves? Check. Desk? About 80% done. I'm already feeling lighter and less stressed!!

[@lauramccollum5686]

Preach! I just need to get my family on board. My family doesn’t even throw away trash. It’s very frustrating. ☹️

[@carriefaucher8175]

My husband and I just bought a smaller, one level home. We've lived in a large two story home for 20 years. It's been a goal for me to go minimal, but I always felt overwhelmed by all the stuff hanging around. Our new home will have only what we need and I cannot wait to start the process! I'll be watching your videos as I go along! Thanks!🙂

[@donnajones9006]

Not going up and down steps will be something you are grateful for in the years to come.

[@lindenpeters2601]

Do you have a basement? Because that makes a big difference in the look of your main level. Keep in mind, The Minimal Mom has a basement that is storage only. For the longest time, I couldn't figure out where she kept all their seasonal stuff and outgrown kids clothes. It's in the basement

[@carriefaucher8175]

@@donnajones9006 That's what I was thinking!🙂

[@carriefaucher8175]

@@lindenpeters2601 it does have a basement and my husband and I are planning to use it for storage.

[@heyyy_samma]

I am so thankful for your channel! I grew up in a house where EVERYTHING was kept (it's still that way). I never learned how to manage these things. Now I am learning, and my kids are learning along with me. They are racing each other to declutter their own spaces ahead of our move to a much smaller home, and it is so encouraging as Momma to see how joyful they are about it!

[@juliesanville9021]

Thank you Dawn! I have followed all of your advice and I am the happiest I've ever been in my home!❤ It only took me a month. Maintaining my home and cleaning is so ENJOYABLE now!

[@TheSilverLining22]

I have to say- I’ve been working on our (my household) version of minimalism for a few years. I love it. It’s easy to keep clean/tidy and no one feels deprived. I’d say we definitely have a long way to go to be “categorized” as minimalists but it’s certainly a journey.

[@rebeckamilt4056]

I stopped wearing contact lenses and makeup to save money. I can't put into words how it has simplified my life. Save money, save time, and most of all, save a lot of worry and mental energy on how I "look". What a freeing experience!! Hope more people try this!!

[@kellyr5123]

Started my journey years ago and I'm so thankful we did. We have 5 kids so stuff seems to always multiply. Now it's so much easier to keep clean and organized with minimal items in our home.

[@katiebates2042]

Your message is the encouragement I use to motivate myself! Your videos are constantly playing in the background while I declutter. ❤️ Thanks Dawn!

[@brandi8510]

Our family of 7 lives in a 900 sq.ft. fully paid off house. So we aren’t moving anytime soon. But we ABSOLUTELY DO need to thin out our stuff and make our home work for us (instead of cleaning all these teeny spaces all the time). I’ve been pretty terrified of going through this pile of stuff which is taking up half our living room like a storage unit. I watched a bunch of your videos and got mentally prepared last night, and you know, I actually believe it’s possible to make our house like a vacation rental, and get rid of all tre stuff we are just moving from this pile to this pile robbing us of our joy and literally hundreds of hours per month when I calculated the time we are spending. Please say a prayer for us, and for my husband who is apprehensive of getting rid of something we may need later. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CHANNEL.

[@michellerather8911]

Just watching one or two of you postings changed so much in my home. The simple, realistic way you talk makes me feel like I have a friend who understands how overwhelmed I feel with Daughter 1's three grandkids living in my crowded home, and Daughter 2's kids always wanting to be at YaYa's. The arts and crafts alone are undoing me!! I am trying desperately to swim against the torrent of stuff and minimize. So I was blown away when Daughter 3 recently looked in a drawer for a fork, paused, and then asked me (me!?), pleaded with me, to come and help her declutter and organise her new home! ("What?!") Thank you Dawn!

[@rachelcook8623]

Thanks Dawn! Could you maybe do a simplistic nursery organization video with Diana? I have seen so many on KZbin that are way over the top and not simple at all. I’d love to see a real-life nursery organization tour that makes sense for a minimalistic lifestyle who actually has a family too! Thanks for all of the inspiring videos!! :)

[@chandelier74]

After finding this channel, I spent all winter decluttering and minimalizing our home. I am still pleasantly surprised how fast I can tidy up the house now and how easy it is to keep clean. My kids even got onboard and their rooms are generally spotless. 😁 Thank you so much, Dawn!!

[@beyoutifullynatural9451]

I love how your home looks!! I’m about to binge watch your videos!! Thank you for the content!

[@caitlinbures4802]

Hi Dawn, I’m guessing from your last comment you and Tom picked the deck and don’t worry you’re not in trouble! It is your house, your money & your family don’t worry what we think! Just as you support us through decluttering our homes we will support you....at least I will. Lol Thank you for your videos and sharing your life with us!

[@vancechris1991]

Her eyes and smile kept me captivated this whole video. I'm glad I found it. I learned a lot that I think I didn't need to know. Suddenly I want to be a minimalist 🤯

[@CookiesAndCosmos]

If someone wants to be able to: 1 - get rid of things that are taking up space and energy in their life 2 - find things easier (or not lose things at all) 3 - have more peace of mind 4 - have really sensible reasons for eliminating items 5 - get inspiration for a beautiful, orderly home 6 - and much more they need your channel Dawn! I found your channel about a year ago. You were saying things like, "That system didn't work for me" and I could SO relate! Then you would give ideas of WHY to eliminate items that made so much sense to me! The concept of "inventory" has had a big impact on how I look at getting rid of things. Your approach has really helped me get closer to the goals I have for my life and home. Great information and motivation along with the nicest person (and family) you could ever meet. ❤️ Thanks for doing what you do and being who you are!

[@kymmarye]

I started my journey before I found your channel, ironically I took the same approach with my husband, lol! I thinned out the kitchen stuff, my stuff, and the kid stuff. A positive side effect is that I’ve noticed my memory improving lately ( I’m 43 and I was giving my 73 year old mom a run for her money forgetting stuff!). I’m 3 years in and still finding ways to get rid of more stuff/ keeping it from coming in.

[@jessicamaughmer3442]

Thank you! This is a goal of mine. All of our stuff has been in storage for almost a month and we move into our new house in 8 days. We cleared a lot while packing but I KNOW there is more that we don't need. We are going to be very selective on what stays and gets to keep a spot in our home.

[@lubnan08]

Minimalism saved my life really. It trickles into all areas of my life. I feel so relieved 😌

[@simonegodwin7449]

I wish there was a cabinet i could put appliances in! I have one for dishes, one for mugs and glasses and one for pans and that's it!

[@SMHartNPC]

Capsule wardrobing is what really changed my perspective, and has launched the slow movement toward minimalism

[@lindenpeters2601]

I think the kitchen is a great place to start! I have simplified my kitchen and linens! Not much else, but I am constantly purging items for donation. One problem I have with minimalist mentality is the "I can always buy it again later". Quarantine has taught us that that's not true! I agree with getting rid of things you never use, but if you know you'll use it again, why spend money for the same item you just donated? Now you literally just spent twice the amount for that item. I think there is merit in finding balance and not depending on consumerism quite so much. This is why I am reluctant to get rid of certain items from family (although some do get donated quickly). I don't believe in getting rid of things just because they're not trendy.

[@almatallaksen4625]

Your advice and video vulnerability have led me to declutter my whole house! I used to organize my stuff and I thought that was enough, but you helped me to get rid of stuff that I was holding onto for sentimental reasons or money guilt. It has been a journey and my house definitely feels very calm with my newfound love of less visual clutter and less behind the doors and in the drawers clutter.

[@ericaradcliffe1384]

You and Diana should do a ladies conference. I would seriously come!! 😃

[@diannemaloney5501]

It amazes me every summer when I go to garage sales, how much stuff seems to have been a recent Christmas or Birthday gift. We give a gift because we feel we have to but often have no idea what the person really likes or wants. We really need to rethink the gift-giving responsibility that everyone feels.

[@margal3120]

Dianne Maloney yes!

[@Vicki1951]

I moved to a 2 bedroom apartment. I’m 70 years old. I have removed items during my life and it felt good and I didn’t miss any of it. Now, I have way beyond too much stuff. Before watching this video I had made the decision that most of my stuff was leaving. If I haven’t used whatever it is for the past two years because it’s sitting in a tote for 2 years! In my 2nd bd/storeroom/den then it’s leaving and a lot of kitchen stuff I don’t need anymore. If I don’t need it then it’s leaving. It will take a while but I won’t have any peace till it’s finished. I despise clutter in any form. Thank you

[@MESDR6886]

I have to admit, it did take time for my brain to adjust, Ive NEVER had a clean fridge front. My hubs and I both felt shocked for weeks every time we saw it. Two short months later I put one piece of paper on the front for use the next day and we both wanted it gone ASAP! It was suddenly weird and ugly hanging there. YAY

[@rachela.5311]

Yes! I've fully embraced minimalism and I LOVE it! My house looks amazing and I feel so much happier and at peace. Your videos have become my go to when I need a little encouragement. Thank you!

[@coffeebitt1]

I wanted to comment on the 80/20 video but…. LAZER FOCUS is the word of the month for me!!! Watch OPRAH for years and NEVER had a lightbulb moment! My Lightbulb moment was: USE IT OR LOOSE IT😩are you filled with job over this Item??! THANK YOU DAWN! God bless you♥️♥️♥️

[@LB-vl3qn]

William Morris was a man ahead of his time when he stated, "Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful." Clearly, he understood the concept of minimalism. ~ Lisa

[@SonyaBarnesOnMove]

I love the clear counter/surface trick! I started doing this because my family is desensitized to stuff left behind if there’s anything on the table.

[@meh5069]

I am very much a person who loves knickknacks and things, and i LOVE maximalist decor. however, now with children I find myself more stressed out that necessary on a daily basis . My things will never be more important than them, so i've paired down a ton on things that are too precious etc. I would love to have a decorated minimalist house, and you're one of the first minimalists i've found with a colorful home, with things on the walls etc. so you make me feel like it's possible!

[@cj2842]

You save money- have less stuff to manage. As a homeschool mom of boys, one with Autism, and 3 dogs- less is more. I started by ridding our home of 1-5 things a day that just didn’t use. It felt good. Like paying off debt. Once one debt is gone- the feeling of freedom starts to kick in! Thank you for your tips- I appreciate them!

[@RLR117]

THANK YOU!!! This video was right on time for me. We just painted the entire interior of our house & I want to take time now to declutter & get rid of so many things. This video gives me confidence.

[@heatherrenee729]

We routinely watch your videos; I may shed a tear or two, or laugh out loud at some stories and comments...THANK YOU for always providing truth and life, Dawn! A question I have is what about those of us that have hobbies...kitchen-related hobbies to be specific...canning, baking, concocting, fermenting...all of these things take up space and make me feel "less minimalist" due to having a 140yo farmhouse with pathetic storage. The crafting supplies we use have spaces, but the kitchen...nope. Help (?)

[@sailsouthpacific]

I cleared off all my counters a few weeks ago and I absolutely love it!

[@ps0195]

I just cleared my counters again for the second time. We have a little running argument at our house between myself and my dear husband, but I’m slowly winning. I feel so much better about going into my own kitchen when there is very little on the countertops, and the things are put away in the cabinet. I am much more motivated to clean it when it actually needs cleaning and I can keep it clean with very minimal amount of time and effort when there’s very little on the counters. I absolutely love keeping the counters mostly clear.

[@MarianneBendixen]

I wish I could clear them off but the cabinets are full! And yes, we're using all the stuff in there. Have gone through it multiple times already!

[@ps0195]

Creating Loveliness that’s how it was for us in our last kitchen. Every cabinet full so stuff was out for sure. This apt has better kitchen layout.

[@meln5499]

The guilt of buying new as you weight fluxes - between babies, it is so real. You two are almost like giving permission for us to let go and live in the now. Thanks!

[@mageetu]

Let me just say, I feel good that your family still tolerates some art on your walls!

[@joanclary3622]

Whenever I tackle a job I have to have you on. You have helped me so much. Its like having a friend when you need one. I need to hear your words to encourage me as I work. Thank you.

[@claudiaabadia9300]

It’s your decision to be minimalist, what other people think of your life is their own problem... and not their business to give you an opinion. - I am inspired by your style. I park my cars in the garage, I started to open and go they my drawers and realize I have more than what I need. I am donate at least twice a year ... congratulations 🎉 I wish I did the Mary Konso style before.

[@momentstv115]

KZbin is not a competition.....we can all shine

[@rachelo3548]

"You'll come over to this side of the fence! And it's great. It's not cluttered over here." I am laughing so hard! I love this! ❤

[@jenhartnett-orser5242]

THIS IS SOOOO ADDICTIVE! I've been editing 1 area every day!!! Now that I've let go of some 'stuff' - I totally realize how irrelevant it is....and it feels SO freeing to not have it sitting there, waiting for me to make a decision about it!!! THANK YOUUUU!!!!

[@lisaharrison9546]

I comb thru and chuck stuff every 6 months after already cleaning out my whole house. It’s exciting and fun to throw stuff away or give to goodwill. And your right it does make you feel amazing!

[@McKaylaJade]

i love the idea of only having things in your house you really love and tossing things you know you don't really like or need.

[@neekaphillipstaliesintoo8790]

Hiya! I started to watch your channel recently, started off as a 'what can I find to watch at 3am' kinda thing, no idea how you came up on my recommendations mind, as a recovering hoarder and stockpiler I think you guys over there would call me. But in that week since. Its like something clicked. We have 6 kids, and so I started with clothes, I'm a wheelchair user so my smaller kids clothes are in my room as their room is small (less mess in a room I can't get to!) and I watched your laundry video about getting the laundry down, honestly, you've been a life changer! My weekends used to be 20+ loads of washing. But now our younger boys have a drawer each in our room, sort of same idea as the bins you have, the rest is in ikea dimla bags under my bed (it's a storage bed) and it's literally made the biggest difference! Another tip run done today and 10 bags of clothing off to help those in need. So Thankyou. For being the best random channel that's made a real impact on our lives. New subscriber here 😊😊😊

[@aimeecarolyn74]

You’re amazing. I started going to cosmetology school a few months ago at nights so I can be home with my kiddos during the day. I have been so confused how people can keep their house clean and do something other than clean up after their family all day. I knew there was a solution but I didn’t know what it was. I have been hooked on your videos, I’ve started a quarantine bin that is overflowing and my kitchen has been clean for a week straight!!! I am excited to get even more minimalist in there and seriously can’t wait to tackle each room with you. Thanks for sharing. Seriously love you already❤️

[@annazapata4423]

“Found its way in” perfect turn of phrase!

[@madelinefiorentino5572]

Loved this vodeo. I'm starting my journey to simplifying. I see now what you mean by buyer remorse. It really is hard parting with thing that I spent a lot of money on or spent the money and never used it. I'm trying to remember what you said I another video. Im being selfish by holding onto it when someone can benefit from it. Thank you

[@mtorres9069]

Minimal is making room for what is important. I have been following you for years and I love the way that you explain this. It is a choice that you can make at any time of your life. I did this when I became a mom and I had too many kid's toys all over the place. I can see the difference that decision made in my life. I hope those that watch this video see that is is about understanding who you are to help you to decide what can leave your home and what stays. Thanks again for your help work on this video.

[@chrystaldodson3391]

Your videos, dedication and efforts are so helpful and inspiring. I continue to find so many useful tips and I am now simplifying. We also live on a farm...on a gravel road which only invites more first and dust in. We are also in animal rescuing/fostering and I'm on a journey of healing physically, working to slowly reverse the effects of auto-immune mess, medications, bad lifestyle choices with eating, stress etc through the years. You are a breath of fresh air and I love learning how to live with less, and be more fulfilled in life. Your JOY is contagious!! I love watching you and Tom, your kiddos and you and Diana on Sunday's too!! Thank you for all you do and God bless you all in the ministry God has called you to.

[@beverlywells6193]

I just want to say that I love your videos. I have been decluttering my house but it really does help in all areas. I suffer from anxiety and it’s always helped when there is organization. I am thankful that you share your family and your faith. So many are afraid of losing viewers if they mention the Lord. Without him there would be no KZbin or anything else! It’s not for everyone but I certainly feel that less is more when it comes to “stuff”! 😊

[@jennyslavis375]

Just cleaned my linen closet.. I thought I did a good job last year ..... not really , today two bags out of one small closet,feels great ,goodwill tomorrow 👍 Dawns videos help me so much .thank you 🤗

[@Stacystann]

“Keeping out of guilt” the struggle I’m dealing with

[@pegeggeggleston4315]

Hi Dawn - If I were to walk into your home, I would say, "Wow she keeps a neat and clean home." (I wish I could say the same for me. Your home is lovely. So I've started with my 3 little kitchen drawers and am going from there. Thanks for your inspiration. Love PegEgg

[@sandracapps5543]

I showed my daughter your videos. She had already found you.🙂This very day, she has been texting me pictures of her progress in her kitchen. In fact, she keeps interrupting my watching of this video.😆I am now preparing to go declutter my kitchen counters! Wish me luck!

[@estherharding9925]

Thank you so much for your videos. You ended this one by inviting us to surround ourselves with minimalist resources/people while going through the process. Well, I've been watching a lot of your videos over the last few weeks to inspire me, keep me on track, and motivate me when I don't feel like I can keep it up. Family minimalism is something I have wanted for my family for a long time, but I haven't known how to start and/or keep it up (or even that it would be called minimalism!). You're giving me the tools I need. My family has already noticed the difference and appreciate it. I feel better for it. We seem to have more time but get more done. The math doesn't seem to add up! But yesterday I had an afternoon where I felt like we were very much on our own with decluttering, like we must be the only people in our community that would see this as a good thing! You've helped me not feel so lonely through this. Thank you!