Minimalist Hacks to Change your Home (And your Life!)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

How do you make sure your home stays simple and clutter free? 👇🤗

[@Robert-qm1ld]

I have a 'clutter table' for things I haven't dealt with. If it's clutter, it must go there. I've had some notes I should add to a spreadsheet on that table for a year, almost. 😐

[@SimpleHappyZen]

@Robert Hahaha well at least it's contained to a single place 😄

[@DazzleDust32]

Containers are a godsend! Far easier when I'm cleaning to just pick up and move a container. Plus, they can be used as a space limit to how much you can store. (Thanks, Dana K White!)

[@goodenoughgirl8102]

Mostly just making decluttering overall part of my normal routine. I pare as I go when I’m doing related tasks and I keep in the back of my mind a “systems” mindset (such as if I’m showering, I ponder various things like...how can I make this task/process even more ideal? What am I really reaching for the most? Etc). I’ve come up with some really cool ideas just doing that one little bit regularly. And it’s also a lot of fun. Helps me put my overthinking, highly analytical mind onto more positive and effective ideas...a lot like solving new puzzles (and I love puzzles lol) as opposed to using my often overactive mind for things like over worrying. 😅😅 It also tends to spark more and more creativity and/or ingenuity...which I also love. Lol. Also when I’m shopping, I make myself think about how it’s going to affect my simple routines if I purchase that item. Bottom line I guess is the item has to be worth the time and money and energy I’d wind up spending on it to actually buy it.

[@bumblebee_ms]

I have a policy in my home that if something hasn't got a place off the ground then it gets donated. I hate clutter on the floor.

[@lynby2108]

Great advice Vera. I am becoming more and more sceptical about keeping up with everyone. People are spending an absolute fortune on unnecessary stuff and it’s actually depressing to literally never be satisfied. Minimalism is the answer to all of this:)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks Lynby! :) I agree, it's very nice to not have that feeling of 'wanting something' all the time :)

[@11Renee11]

Agreed. I'm now at the point that anything that comes into my house has to either a) replace something else that's worn out b) be an upgrade for something I use on a regular basis c) may be aesthetically pleasing but must also serve a purpose and not just take up space. I don't go for fads or buying things that other people have to keep up with the Jones's.

[@utterskyy3591]

Yes and what a shame it is for half the world to be in need of basics and the other half having an abundance of items and never feeling it is enough

[@Lola-mt1ne]

Minimalism has come to me particularly over the last 6 months and with it a greater sense of ease and peace of mind. I've always had a penchant for being frugal, and have been criticized for this. I like simplicity. I can keep my mind freer.

[@madhuparnabasuroy6620]

I love your content so much ❤️ One thing I find helpful while shopping online is not to buy the items I've just added in the cart. Instead, I leave the app. I open it few days after and review those items quickly while just thinking do I need it now? It helps in deleting extra items and cross checking the list. I have had problems of buying extra things while shopping online in the past, but now, this system works for me so very well ❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's really great!! :) Thanks so much for sharing this tip

[@h-l-l]

Yes. I do this too!

[@goodenoughgirl8102]

I usually wind up at Amazon (Bcuz of the fast, reliable or free shipping lol) and I use the “shopping list” to do the same thing. Stops me from buying 90% of it). Lol.

[@11Renee11]

I used to emotionally shop...So now I do the shopping cart/list as well and give it 5 days before I decide. A lot of times I've had time to think about it and I've lost interest or realize it's not what I want or need.

[@williamclark1244]

I always look forward to your videos. I'm a fellow vegan which was the catalyst for me becoming a minimalist - that and working in retail. One of the hacks that you mentioned I already do - rearranging items in the home to give it a refresh. I also propagate some of my plants to add more greenery instead of always buying more plants. Now before I purchase anything I make certain that it is fair trade, eco-centric and the company is transparent with how the products are made. If they fail in any of these categories I will wait to find a company that passes all three. It also provides me with additional time to determine if I really do need the item if I am on the fence about it. Using this method to shop has greatly decreased my desire to go shopping all of the time. On another note, before I viewed this video I had also made a matcha latte. I wholeheartedly agree with you. It's very refreshing :)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Love it all! Thanks for sharing William, have a great day! 🍵

[@beccismith4454]

I love your comment and approach as well! I also really appreciate finding ecological, planet and people friendly products and enjoy supporting such developments! 🍀😊

[@11Renee11]

I recently started the process of shopping for specific eco friendly and cruelty free cleaning products and makeup/beauty items. The amount of packaging wasted, especially for laundry detergent, is obscene.

[@kathleenalcott9281]

You inspired me to quickly go through my clothes, bedside drawers, and a book shelf and a small desk! I have two bags to donate, and two trash bags full. Thank you for your simplicity and encouragement!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Wow amazing! You can be so proud of yourself as well :)

[@lizzabbott]

PS ... when I see you & your tea , I get a strong feeling for how you resonate with Japanese culture. It’s enchanting.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thanks! 😄🍵

[@heatherframpton9693]

One tip: processing mail & packages as soon as the come into our home. Open, file bills & etc. or shred sensitive items in our office, in the recycle bin put junk mail, envelopes & break down boxes. 😊❤️Thanks, Vera. As always, your content is well-presented & very useful! ❤

[@justagirluwu]

Just wanted to say in minimalism we hear a lot things like “you only need one towel, or one blanket, or one pair of pajamas” but at the end of the say life is unpredictable so like Vera mentioned, maybe not have an overwhelming amount of items but an extra towel or blanket can be quite helpful if you have a spill or forget to wash your towel right, its balance and what works foe you. Not restricting or over doing it 😅

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Exactly!! :) Love it

[@11Renee11]

I think there's different levels of minimalism. I'll never be a severe minimalist. I think it depends on your lifestyle. Families with children, it would be hard to go without extra towels, blankets, etc.

[@joank5585]

Great tips Vera, I especially like “do the math” concept, this definitely makes you more mindful and intentional with purchases, also rearranging furniture, taking down all home decor items including plants and switching things around is a great idea. Jomo has great benefits that I am now enjoying, minimalism its a journey and sometimes a slow progress but so worth it! 👍

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much Joan, happy you liked those tips :) You're definitely right about it being a journey and sometimes slow. It's all part of it :)

[@bumblebee_ms]

I love that you mentioned sugar, I quit eating sugar 3 years ago and it makes me much less moody.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes it can have such a big impact on our energy levels, mood swings... For me, it's better to stay away from it most of the time and only indulge in a sweet treat every once in a while :)

[@tamiewert808]

I love all of these suggestions!! I especially love the systems for organized space, reducing surface clutter, and repurposing things we already own!! Personally I try to keep to the philosophy of one in one out ideology. If I bring something new into my home, I try to give away or donate the thing that I replaced!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much Tami! :) Yes, the one in one out rule is so good :)

[@johannathorisdottir2456]

Just basic minimalism i think is the answer for me. I got rid of LOADS OF STUFF!!!! And i feel that works for me and i feel so much calmer and my home is more relaxed!

[@christined2495]

Vera were you a fly on my wall this morning, this is what I was talking to my husband about this morning over coffee…you nailed it, we think exactly alike

[@SimpleHappyZen]

😄💕

[@yogagirl33]

I have been on this journey for five years and the journey does not end.

[@gwenj5419]

The newness factor is true for me with clothes and accessories. I get bored with the same purses and tops especially. "One in one out" keeps things under control and since I shop at thrift, I don't feel guilty.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Sounds like a solution that works for you 😊 I only have one small purse and one backpack haha

[@goodenoughgirl8102]

I’m the same way. Lol. I guess for me tho it’s more like shirts, purses, shoes. 😅😅 It’s a cheap way to deal with the shopping urges I get. Lol. But for me it’s also like I really enjoy the thrill of the “hunt” as well. It’s not even half as fun at retail places Bcuz it’s way too predictable and boring. Lol.

[@11Renee11]

I struggle with this as well. I did a massive declutter awhile back...I donated 3 garbage backs of items and have about the same in items I'm going to sell. I have 6 purses which is too many...going to try to keep 3 basic colors that will go with anything. I promised myself I'd only shop for specific clothes at thrift stores when replacing items.

[@CharlotEYUT]

Thanks Vera! Always fantastic advice. I stopped coloring my hair and now it’s healthier than ever, I save money and I don’t have to worry about retouching roots anymore! 😋

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yay! Love it :)

[@mabelkoh1946]

I find eating/drinking black sesame helps retaining your own natural hair color.

[@ntandoyenkosimoyo4768]

hi Vera, your videos keep me in check of continuing my minimalism journey

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy to hear it! :)

[@lindaguida4074]

When I clean my house I move furniture & kitchen stuff around, it’s fun!

[@DazzleDust32]

Hi Vera, hope you are well. I really appreciate that you have one tier of membership to Patreon. It feels much more equitable than some other channels. I have been a very lazy Patron recently, so will try to catch up on the rest of your videos soon!! Have a great rest of the weekend. xxx

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha no worries, thanks so much Gemma! 😄💕 Enjoy cathing up!

[@lonnagraves7937]

You are always so helpful and refreshing. I enjoy your videos so much. I have always been a tidy person, not sure if it comes naturally or my parents taught me; they were tidy too. I can't relax if there is stuff everywhere or dishes in the sink. I have SO much less than I used to, and it is a relief to not manage so many items anymore.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

The fewer items we have around, the easier it'll be to keep it tidy :) One of the best things about minimalism haha. Thanks Ionna, have a great day!

[@deborahmeyers551]

Thanks for sharing these are great tips Vera the way I keep my home clutter free is to only have the things that serve me for which I'm grateful for if I have anything I don't need or use it goes into a box for the charity shops 😊 I can however do better I do fall into traps but it doesn't happen often because I get a good feeling when ì walk past a don't buy unnecessary things 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes I love that feeling! :)

[@mai-brittlarsen7526]

You are a gem❤️ teaching without making me feeling ashamed of my clutter!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

No shame!! :) Thanks Mai-Britt, have a lovely rest of your weekend

[@Inasafespot]

Great advice, have taken a lot on myself. Stopped buying décor items unless it’s something that really speaks to me, last week cleared and rearranged the decor on my dining room dresser for a fresh look. Looking at now, there is only one new item there, a pretty candle in a cup that I was gifted at Christmas. The rest has been in my possession from four to thirty plus years, lockdowns have enforced the idea that I don’t need new things all of the time. Did not buy new clothing for well over 12 months, this was before Covid and even now I still only more essential items as others wear out.

[@marcewagner9434]

I am currently planning on decluttering my kitchen pantry and clothes closet and feeling a bit overwhelmed, but I need to take it one step at a time(and stop overthinking it and just do it!). thanks for these suggestions.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're welcome Marce :) You're right, one step at a time :) Feel free to check out my video specifically for decluttering clothing: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKWkqZuChLV2m68

[@bethjloveswax]

I love your idea of getting all decor items and then rearranging them when you’re craving something new. I have 2 wall hangings for my bedroom for each season that I have swapped around for about 3 years now and that is all I need to do in order to keep things new and exciting! The only season I have a lot of decor for is Christmas, but other than that it just takes a little change to get me excited again. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us, Vera! 🤗💚

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I love that, that's a great idea! :)

[@bethjloveswax]

@@SimpleHappyZen Thank you so much! It has been working great for me so far :)

[@Janelou42]

I watched many.. maaany minimalism videos, you have some classic tips but some very refreshing ones, especially the 'what do I value more' point. Thank you!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Wow, thank you so much!

[@meenaximani9471]

Hey Vera, I am watching your video after a long time, but still your charm is so effective, I feel refreshing and rejuvenating. I will start decluttering once again.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hi Meenaxi, it's been a long time! Hope you're doing well and I'm happy to see you here again :) Wishing you the best with decluttering!

[@latoyacherrie289]

I'm a decluttering again tomorrow and ready to embrace being a minimalist especially since my boyfriend is moving in and gotta make space... I'm taking notes already...Finally someone with good advice, THANK YOU 😊 🙏

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much Latoya and congrats with your boyfriend moving in! 🤗

[@catherinefrancis5827]

I love your view on “paring down your wardrobe”. I schedule a monthly charity pick up every month. That way, I’m donating constantly clothes that I don’t & hasn’t worn in awhile.

[@TodaysFunda]

you have so many ideas and information to share with us. i really appreciate the hard work you are doing to help us all. thank you so much, Vera. sending you warm wishes from India 🙂

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thank you so much!!!

[@jenniferrice22]

Thank you for sharing. I live in Michigan. I have a small closet. I cull my wardrobe as each season changes. Now I need to have a similar habit for the rest of my home 🙂

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Sounds great! Good luck :)

[@mamibeehappy]

I love all of ur content Vera 💓 . Thank you 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much! Have a great weekend

[@feylights166]

I'm on the more "relaxed" side of minimalism. As I've shared before, I'm definitely a maximalist when it comes to books and manga, and especially with manga, when it comes to fandom merch (figures, prints, shirts, etc), I am of course bombarded with such things. I attended a virtual convention last weekend, and people showed off their amazing figure collections. There was a part of me that was a little jealous I didn't have the same collection (I only have a few figurines). But then I thought, 1) they're really expensive 2) they take up space, and 3) if I'm going to spend money, I'd rather spend it on the actual series (book or manga), than the merch that goes with it. I will occasionally buy merch (I am a pin collector), but I've become pretty intentional about it.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's the most important thing :) Being intentional with how you can bring things you love into your life in the way that fits you the best

[@infjhuman6398]

Alot of people don't realize, that gathering or having a collection cost tons of money and space. It's money that could be used for experiences or having a nice relaxing tv/movie room and or a mortgage free home or plainly you could have a nice savings account that grows with interest. My mom collected plates back in the 80s. Thirty years or so, they ended up not being worth much. 😟 Bottom line... (sorry about getting on my high horse,) ...and the last benefit of not having a collection is not having a crowded home where dust may collect, and then eventually you will have to take precious time to clean these items! Nope! Not for me! But, you do you if it truly, truly makes you happy! But the freedom of not having to: store, dust and move a collection; is very freeing!

[@feylights166]

@@infjhuman6398 some people really enjoying collecting, so if figures and collectibles are someone's thing, go for it. I just realized it wasn't for me. I am a big nerd, and am often bombarded with merch from various fandoms, but I have learned to (most of the time) say no, unless it is something I genuinely want. I would rather focus on the the series itself, rather than all the extra merch that goes with it. In other words, I will buy the book series, but not all the merch that goes with it, if that makes sense. As you said, they cost a lot of money and take up space (and you have to dust them). The only thing I really "collect" are books and manga, as having full bookshelves brings me a lot of joy, and I am a huge bookworm (I also enjoy pins), but with everything else, especially things like figurines, I have to *really* want it in order to justify buying it, as I can do it now and then, but I am not buying figurines every month. I have declutterred a lot of knick knacks, keeping only my favorites. I am not necessarily striving for minimalism, but I take inspiration from it. And I enjoy having a nice chunk of change in my savings account. I guess I am a mediumist? Lol if that is a thing.

[@11Renee11]

Anyone that has a hobby or interest is going to have certain things. My weakness is art supplies so I have to be very careful and buy quality rather than quantity.

[@meloniecollins6373]

Really enjoy your content and genuine nature.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thank you Melonie! :) Have a wonderful weekend!

[@DarcieGlam]

I had a lot of items from family that I wanted to keep but I don't like surface clutter so I separated it by season and store it that way. Then the fall and winter stuff comes out and the spring/summer stuff goes away. It keeps things simple but I can have the things I love around me. I really liked your idea of calculating how many of a certain item you think you need.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah clever!! :) Thanks for sharing

[@PABWECG]

Your videos have become a staple in my life. I find your presentation so relaxing and engaging. I have ADHD, and your simple suggestions, and also the WAY you present them, have been incredibly useful in managing my life. So, THANK YOU! I have serious financial debt, so I can't join your Patreon right now, but maybe someday!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thank you so much, I'm happy to hear my videos have been helpful for you! I'm sorry to hear about your debt. Of course, no worries if you can't join my Patreon, I agree repaying debts is much more important. :) And I already appreciate your support by watching my videos here. :) Wishing you happy holidays and all the best for 2023!

[@bollybelly]

Love your concept of JOMO. I can apply that to many areas of my life. Thank you, sometimes reframing something helps a lot!😅

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Glad you enjoyed it! :) Have a great day

[@shehnazahmad5213]

Hi Vera Thank you sooo much💐

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome :) Have a great day!

[@horsesnsimslover]

I'm fairly new to the channel and I wanted to say I love your videos so much, they are very calming! I am also newer to the idea of minimalism, even though I've never been big on having a lot of stuff/clutter. I think I've always been a bit of a minimalist at heart lol. Your videos have helped me to learn how to better decide what I need or don't need and how to live more calmly in this very fast paced world, so thank you so much!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Love that, thank you so much!! 🤗

[@issyaddams8297]

We love you, Vera. It was nice hearing about KZbin as your job and your life.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Issy, that's so sweet 🤗🌺

[@lizzabbott]

Beauuutiful video as always, dear Vera !! And you are SO artistically talented !! How neat that you are doing that new art on your ipad. Good on you ! I love the colors in your Home & in your video intro logo. Great tips here TY ! I look forward to returning to Patreon soon. And yes ! That “typical day” vid of yours is awesome ! Lots of love, Liz

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thanks so much Liz for all your kind words! It's funny with those colors, even without thinking about it, or realizing it, I've always gravitated towards them. So they pop up in my home, in my logo, in my artwork. Only a few months ago did I finally notice I always have similar colors everywhere lol :) The logo is already 5 years old at this point.

[@kathyallen5121]

Great video, I am reinspired and ready to get back to it. Thank you

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy to hear it!! :) Good luck!

[@danicegewiss862]

Someone suggested getting rid of clothes that don't fit, are damaged, etc. That took me down to 4 pairs of jeans. I was surprised at how freeing that was. I have been steadily weeding things out. My husband and I have been cutting back over the years. I put most of what was left in my attic in bins. Yesterday we went through a few of those bins. It feels freeing when we do this. We're embracing cottage core, but with less stuff. We got rid of a huge couch and replaced it with a wooden Captain's chair. We switched our stove and fridge. Now the house has more of an open feel to it. So much more needs to go, but we see great improvement.

[@sharonshmuel3386]

Loved this so much I get so much inspiration from you & love your calming voice ❤️💖💝

[@sarahdale6199]

You are a breath of fresh air! Thanks for the tips and inspiration you share with us. I have three kids 10 and under and the clutter can pile up so fast it’s crazy. But I love your videos and the way you live. ❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Sarah, that's very sweet :) Give everyone a hug from me and have a great day!

[@Areli_Arabians]

Hello Vera. I quickly paused the video to say that your hair is looking lovely. Your curls are falling so gently and beautifully. Also your hair is looking nice and healthy. I have mostly straight hair with a slight wave. For a few months now I have been struggling with products. My scalp hurts and my hair does not have the healthy shine it used to. I am looking into more natural products. I would be very interested in a video or two of your hair care routine, what products / oils you use, do you brush or combe and how often and so on. Have a happy day 😁

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Noelani! :) I'm still learning a bit about my hair. And also, in total honesty, it only looks like this maybe 2 or 3 days after I wash it. So it's not always like this hahaha.

[@cathylynnpietranton]

Hi Vera thank you very much. You are always so helpful and inspiring. I've always concerned I'm self a neat and tidy person. For me the rule one in then one out. Have a lovely Sunday.❤

[@SimpleHappyZen]

One in, one out works wonders :) Thanks Cathy!!

[@natschi13]

Hi Vera, just started watching your videos yesterday, because I feel a bit overwhelmed these days. Your videos are so helpfull, motivating and calming to me. Thank you a lot! 💕🌷 Greetings from Germany 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Natascha, welcome to the channel! I'm sorry to hear you've been feeling overwhelmed lately. Times are complicated.. Sending you a hug! Take care!

[@doreenscott4223]

Love the concept of putting electronic devices away for when YOU want them!

[@jennyleeuwenkamp4362]

Ahhh thank you so much for this video. Makes me calm, relaxed & gets me inspired!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So happy to hear that!! :)

[@pigletsbank437]

I have the same neutral color on the walls and matching curtains are all the same from ceiling to floor throughout the whole house so it looks uniform. I switch up by moving🪴 plants or ascessories 🕯️🖼️📚 or put something away for a while (candles in summer, or one of the many paintings made by my mother in law set on her old ezel so I take one out of the storage if I feel like it and no holes in the walls either😍) ps the paintings are not in frames but are all the same size....

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Great tips!! 😄

[@pigletsbank437]

@@SimpleHappyZen thank you have a great weekend❤️

[@cantocant2346]

That sounds beautiful. I am working towards that in my own home. It is becoming more serene and restful.

[@pigletsbank437]

@@cantocant2346 it is.! It's good to have a nice place you can call "home" where you relax in all ease..

[@infjhuman6398]

Love the idea of just having a painting displayed on an esel. I also love the uniform look.

[@mukundjere9230]

Hi Vera. How are you? Your all suggestions are perfect and need to be implemented. I again say that it's a home work. You are taking so much efforts for simplifying and calming life. Thanks you. Enjoy moments 🎉🎉

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much for your kind comment!! So happy you enjoyed the vid. Have a great week!

[@sanja7489]

your home looks really lovely 💚

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much 😊

[@CP-xw4ze]

Always a pleasure to hear your tips 🙌

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much! :)

[@lauraswider7788]

Vera, I enjoy your KZbin videos. I look forward to watching them weekly. I haven’t subscribed to Patron, but it looks nice too. Question- how do you apply your minimalism habits to dealing w/photos? Do you have photo albums?

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Laura, happy to hear it! :) About photos, I keep all of them digitally, but the extra special ones (special trips, etc), we do print out in photo albums that we keep in the living room. We love flipping through them every once in a while, and I do think it's more special that way than watching them on your phone or laptop :)

[@kathrynmettelka7216]

For gardening, I keep some ratty t-shirts. I don't care if they have spots or have become baggy or whatever. If the temperature reaches 100 F today, we will reach a new record of 11 consecutive days of triple-digit temperatures. I hate to wear good clothes in this weather and sweat all over them, but I've reached a turning point. Now when I wear something in bad condition, I throw it out. When it's beyond repair or donating. It can go though I keep hearing an inner voice saying, "You could wear it for . . . ." I realize too that looking disreputable can trigger depression, and that's a high price to pay for trying to save money.

[@Deb.-.]

Sunday arvo (afternoon) here in Australia and what a lovely relaxing video. I am guilty of too many house plants atm as I have cuttings growing and had also collected some from other people but have decided enough is really enough. The problem is, it is not so much growing and receiving cuttings but it will now be the cost of buying pots for them and finding homes. 🙂

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha yes that's also what I'm always thinking about when it comes to propagating... it's cool and fun but in the end, they will all grow and need pots and they will take over your house if you're not careful hihi

[@Deb.-.]

@@SimpleHappyZen Oh yes, my kitchen window seal must have about 10 new plants starting. and the dining widow seal also has about another 5 either starting or in pots. LOL

[@Deb.-.]

@@PartlySunny74 That is a great idea, but it is me receiving the cuttings,, I have to start to say,, enough is enough. lol

[@purrsephone2904]

Very nice video. I like your ideas about minimalism. Thank you.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much! :)

[@wt4451]

Vera, thank you for another awesome and helpful video!😌👌💚

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yay, you're very welcome! :)

[@purelynumpay1660]

I this content very helpful for me. Thank you so much!

[@JoanSilva52]

I really enjoyed this. Thank you. Hubby is a paper person. Piles up. Thankfully he's gotten better at letting it go.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha :)

[@mara1275]

Thank you 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome :) Have a great day!

[@totesflaisch]

Thank you for the video, it gave me new motivation to keep on decluttering and not buying anything in the next time! Also I have to say that your hair looks sooo beautiful, the wavy hair and your natural color suit you very well! 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thank you so much!!!

[@aliciaorozco4502]

Love this video… thank you!

[@goodenoughgirl8102]

I think I’m making very good use of the Amazon “shopping list” lol. I think I actually only buy maybe 10% of the stuff I put on there. Often I’ll run across some ad and think oh that’s so cool. So then I go look to see if Amazon has it also. Then I put it on the list. Next time I go on there (I get cat food delivered on a sub so I have to check in regularly on there). I peruse my list and I think most times Nah. Don’t really need it. Really enjoying my latest endeavors tho. I changed bedrooms in my home lol. So I was focusing on that mostly. Refinishing bedroom furniture. Setting up my “new” smaller closet. Etc. (Btw everything and their brother fits in there including coats, all seasons of clothing included, momentos, photos, shoes and luggage and is not annoyingly packed to the hilt). My former closet was a huge walk-in and I also stored all linens in there lol. Ran across my bag of tattered clothes and decided to cut up some things for paint rags (for use with refinishing the furniture lol). I don’t think I’ve ever done that in my life...other than just using old socks to clean with. I was amazed tho at just how much I enjoyed cutting up those old pants and undies tho. 😅😅 I now also have 2 new “pocket organizers” from the cut up cargo pants. (Also going to use for paint supply storage lol). A dozen or so rags. And decided to keep a couple of the old shirts to use for the messy painting jobs (prob not a good idea to try that naked 🤣🤣). I guess I’m just a bit gobsmacked at my age to think that if I was born back in my grandma’s days, I might’ve also been pretty good at sewing like she was. So strange but really cool. It all felt nothing but great to me. I just am kind of blown away atm about just how much I enjoyed sitting there cutting fabric up like that. 😅😅 You put “dreaded” things off like that (or you think eh whatever it’s just one more chore etc) and you just have no idea how much fun you might actually have doing such things. Go fig. Lol.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

😄💕

[@joley8695]

Very , very difficult to declutter here as I live with a hoarder ☹️ I am thinking of moving out because it’s driving me crazy.

[@bcfeigful]

I was a professional organizer and I lived with someone who brought in piles of newspapers and reading materials

[@bcfeigful]

Continue from last comment. And didn't give a squat that I hated it. His version of a filing system is to throw all the papers under his bed. When he left, I got rid of every last bit of his mess

[@shailyy3202]

Stay Blessed Stay Happy Always 😘🤗🥰🧚‍♀️🦄🌈🧿

[@soniab.estacio3008]

Thank you my dear ❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome :) Have a great day!

[@dianapastor4954]

Great advices as always.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks Diana, happy to hear it :)

[@janethsantos29]

helpful your vlog about to change my home like me i have a toddler 😅 but your vlog i have idea to change my home again tnx Vera❤❤❤

[@ronda176]

I’ve minimized my physical possessions but still having trouble decluttering my ‘should do’ or ‘want to do’ list. I keep thinking of more and more little projects I should do or I subscribe to more KZbin channels than I can keep up with or keep adding more books to my reading list than I can read. This ends up making me feel like I’m not accomplishing anything because my to do list is always getting bigger than my done list. Then what was supposed to be enjoyable becomes a burden. Hope I’m making some sense haha. If you have any thoughts or suggestions I’d love to see a video about this topic (assuming you haven’t done one already). Thanks Vera 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing Ronda! Yes that does sound relatable haha. Though I stopped making too long lists for things a while. I currently don't have a should do or want to do list, or like a book list or anything. I go one at a time :) The book I'm currently reading. I'll think about the next one when I'm finished. :) This really does help with keeping things simple in my headspace

[@CitrouilleCitron]

thanks for this interesting video !

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy you enjoyed it :)

[@teresaromero8655]

Lovely ! 🤗

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you Teresa, hope you're having a nice weekend so far!

[@dellanira6327]

It's hard to do this with teenagers. All I can do is send them your videos. 🤷‍♀ I also decided to just use dresses for my wardrobe. Life is easier for me now.

[@chrstopherblighton-sande2981]

This was a great list of hacks. I particularly liked the 'joy of missing out'. It's something I've been thinking about lately and it's a great and pretty far-reaching subject to ponder on, I wonder if you could do a video about it sometime? I really like the hack about finding different ways to get that sense of newness. I'm someone who loves routines and things staying the same, so I don't have much desire to change the things in my house, but I have noticed that in those fairly rare times when I feel stuck in a rut I do find myself suddenly online browsing for new items to buy and coming up with elaborate reasons why I now need to buy this or that thing which I've never needed of thought about before :-). I've found that just doing something different at those times satisfies that urge for newness and then the desire to buy something just for the sake of it, vanishes.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Exactly!! I can relate haha :)

[@godisgood2919]

I would love if you do a hair care video. Your hair looks beautiful!

[@anjalipopli8926]

Hi Vera, i have got a number of notebooks and diaries lying around in my home, and i like to maintain a planner on an everyday basis, so i DIY my own planner instead of buying it from outside and hence using the stuff that is already there in my house.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So creative!

[@invisible_design]

so helpful! thank uuuu

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy to hear it! :)

[@lizadams7662]

I've always washed and reused plastic food bags and foil. They can be safely reused a lot. My sister used to be very rude about it! To me it's about taking care of the earth, to her it was cheapskate. Different mindset. However when she died, died, she left a houseful of stuff for our niece to clear out. My son will have much less work when I die. I've been winnowing for years and like the simpler effect.

[@debschirra3056]

Great helpful video. Random question, PLEASE tell me what hair products do you use to make your beautiful curly hair look soft! THANKS!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hi Deb! :) Aw thanks so much :) Hmmm, what I learned is that it works great to apply products to dripping wet hair. If you do that, it'll dry up looking very soft, instead of crunchy. So that's the best tip I've learned. And when you apply them, hang upside down and scrunch them into your hair, making it go 'squish, squish, squish'. That's apparantly where the magic happens hahaha. I use shampoo and conditioner from Function of Beauty currently, and after washing my hair I'll apply a clump cream and light hold hair gel (both of these to dripping wet hair, like I said). Then I plop my hair in a microfibre towel (old tshirt also works) for 15 minutes, after which I'll let it airdry.

[@JenGB-yp3te]

I had fun with doulingo as well😊😇🥰

[@SimpleHappyZen]

It's so much fun! :)

[@malinjohansson1986]

Great advice! but it's impossible to do this if you live with someone who loves clutter ;) any advice on that?

[@loida6837]

More intentional ❤️

[@kiki-oh7hi]

Another great video! Question- what do you do about junk mail? I get so much of it and always recycle but it is incoming.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks Kiki!! Here, you can just put a sticker on your mailbox that says you don't want any junk mail, flyers or anything like that. And you won't get them :) I don't know how it works in other places though..

[@kiki-oh7hi]

@@SimpleHappyZen ooh this is great! I will try it- worth a shot. Thank you! ❤️

[@ms1295]

More help with paper clutter please! I am afraid to go completely digital because I feel it’ll be too easy for me to miss an important bill or payment deadline. My inbox is far from minimal 😱 what do you use to scan documents and how to you back that data up?

[@honeyteababy]

Maybe try to minimise/organise the inbox first and then see how you feel about it? :)

[@heatherframpton9693]

Few things motivate decluttering & rehoming items, along with not buying a whole lot of items like a very recent (LAST WEEK!) confirmation of a cross-country (Midwest to Southwest US!!) move by year's end. A totally different climate, so high 90%'s of warm clothing, etc. for typical Winter cold weather will be rehomed. ❤

[@emmamelissaa]

I'm on my way to minimalism and for me it's really easy to not buy new things. When I see something I really like it's so easy for me to say "but I already have a similar one/enough of the same category etc.." But I can not let go easily of things I already have. I love decluttering with/for other people but I'm struggling with decluttering my own stuff. Am I the only one? Any tips?

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Emma! :) I have some recommendations for you regarding what you shared. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXyXYnVslrWYi9U and kzbin.info/www/bejne/nIjOdotjrJmWqM0 and kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWWzfnypgJdqmdU Good luck!

[@lorraineyanez4301]

I believe in simplicity as well the problem is the others in my household don't.

[@sarahthatcher123]

A Detailed video on how to store digital items would be helpful. Photos, versus receipts, investment statements…’what if’ you lose your laptop, stolen, in a house fire or it gets hacked? I would never use ‘the cloud’ and that is usually what everyone recommends. In the post CoVid world, the less I have online the better. In my country, the government froze people’s bank accounts so now nothing is ‘off limits’ and they use digital ‘tracking’ etc. They are just really up in our business so the less I have online the better. Any ideas? Hard drive storage? I’m not techy and it’s overwhelming.

[@roxannefisher9874]

I use google keep for digitizing paperwork. I still have alot to do but it has downsized alot of what I got

[@uku3603]

Simple Happy Zen 👍🍵🙏✨ どうもありがとう Thank you so much❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

どういたしまして 😄🤗

[@sylviabol640]

It's still a work in process, i'm not there yet💚🍀

[@SimpleHappyZen]

One step at a time! :)

[@nataliesutherland5584]

I try to craft my own decor instead of buying the ready made items also we implement the one in one out rule

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Lovely! :)

[@JTEmers]

,,, yes, Duo est un bon ami! ,,, practicing French and Portuguese,,,

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So cool! Enjoy practicing new languages 🤗

[@martinpilcher4395]

Hi again, from London uk, were get pot for ya plants from with blue stripe at bottom? Amazon ??

[@pinayinuk]

Ur amazing person

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Rina :) Have a nice day!

[@HOUSEFULLOFLEES]

Really wanna cut down on all things. I have to much. But I need to not connect memories to everything. I find that growing up lower middle class I didn't want much cause it was out of my parents budget but now being upper middle class I can afford much more so I'm just getting it cause I can.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing Monique! When it comes to not connecting memories to everything, I think this video could possibly be helpful for you: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXyXYnVslrWYi9U

[@VivaLaVittoria]

I really struggle with clutter on surfaces. Bottom line is I have too much stuff and lack a good organizing system for the things I do really need.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Having too many things 'out' can make it very difficult to keep surfaces looking neat and tidy :) Perhaps finding other places to store some of them out of sight could be helpful :) Or of course, re-evaluating if you really still need all of them

[@kennethbailey9853]

Thankyou nice lady