The Five Stages of Clutter - What stage are you in?

[@Clutterbug]

Don't miss your chance to join the Take Your House Back Team NOW: www.takeyourhouseback.com/courses/take-your-house-back?ref=5bbd37

[@danielaelenkova8972]

Ok I want my house back. In the past, me and my family were at stage 3. It took hours until we got our house cleaned. But then we decluttered 45%of the clutter we had. We feel way better than before . At December 26 I got 2 whole bags out of my room. Thank you for your help. Happy birthday and happy new year 🎉

[@natalieflemington6451]

Looking forward to the All day declutter on Jan 13th 2024. Done two before and really enjoyed them so much. Each time, began working several hours before official start time, making the most of the UK time difference. Got soooo much out of them. Loved the feeling that you all were out there but with me working hard & smart xx

[@montanamom1124]

Take your House Back Life changing

[@sonyad7723]

Even though I'm pretty much in maintenance mode for most of my place now, I still like the accountability to help me with holding myself accountable to finish my project or that bin that's been sitting in the back of my closet since I moved...or other things I've been meaning to get to!!! And the BODY DOUBLING, even if it IS only online I find HELPS ME SOOOOOO TREMENDOUSLY to stay on track for muchhhhhh longer than I otherwise would if I was doing it by myself then quit to go read a book I came across while decluttering or something! Lol

[@NitrosMom074]

I’m 66 years old…can I do this?

[@TinaS.-lc1sc]

Ok, I am crying. I lost my mom last year and you said something I have been telling myself exactly… “it must have been important to her since she had this (furniture) for so many years, so I need to keep it (even though it’s not my style/I don’t really care for it) … I feel like you just gave me permission to let it go (and hopefully to someone that will enjoy it). I’m new to your channel and really enjoy your videos. Thank you 😊

[@Clutterbug]

I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm sure your mom would be so proud of you for being strong and brave enough to put yourself first. She would want you be happy.

[@mandypdx]

I’m sorry for your loss. I lost my mother in 2002 and have been holding on to antique piano that she loved. I asked my brother and sister if they would be disappointed if i got rid of it (they didn’t want it). I got over $50k for it- it’s from the 1800’s and we brought it with us when we moved from the netherlands to america :)

[@lauramitchell6725]

@@mandypdx👍🙌🏻👏👌

[@sonyad7723]

I'm so sorry for your loss! If you find that your having toooo much difficulty with parting with everything. Maybe trying to find just 1 to 3 items that make you really remember your happiest memories of her? Or you could take photos of the items you your giving/selling away (or a combination of both). Also, Dawn the Minimal Mom I think it was has a GREAT video where she explained when her mom brought over her childhood dolls. But they brought up memories of liking them PLUS the anxiety of her younger cousins maybe ruining them. In the end, she realized that she didn't want to remember those anxiety memories so she didn't give them to her girls, instead Goodwill and keep other items with ONLY good memories instead. Everything of your mom's will bring up memories, but try to be selective in only your BEST, HAPPY memories of her to item-keep, and give/sell the rest away. Every life has its ups AND downs, let's try to hold onto the best ups going forward.

[@LauraMacMillan-el2kc]

I had a grandfather clock that had belonged to my mom, dead now almost 15 years. No one else wants it; but when I asked my family members one last time about it? It was made clear that it would be seriously frowned upon if I didn’t dispose of it “appropriately” (meaning find a worthwhile place for it to be donated, and transport it there at my own effort, time, and expense.) Never making that mistake again. If I’m caretaking something that I one else wants and I don’t want to do it anymore, I will just quietly dispose of it on my own. Pretty sure no one will even notice.

[@limonade2684]

Our new vacuum robot works as a body doubling for my husband 🤣 As soon as it starts to clean he goes up and tidies up as if he wants to help his coworker.

[@for_one_and_all]

Oooh I never thought of this but I'm totally going to use this now!

[@stefanifisherrn]

😂

[@thatsfunny2051]

Gonna try this on myself

[@lynnettelg]

I’m so glad you shared this! I needed the laugh. You wrote it so cleverly!

[@SoundofSilence492]

Huh. Maybe it would help me. I could put a wig or something on it.

[@PenelopePeriwinkle]

I’m in transformation mode. I broke up with alcohol a year ago. I was a few glasses of wine a night girl. I let my house go for years. I had no place to put things. Overhauling my house. I’m proud of myself. I have a new lease on life.

[@patriciaseyfferle1427]

Congratulations on the "break-up!" You can do this! One box at a time, one day at a time. How cool would it be to say you are a "2 box per night declutterer!"

[@sonyad7723]

Congratulations!!!!! What an amazing accomplishment that you're doing every single day!!!! YEAH YOU!!!! Keep it up 😃😃😃

[@ppia5700]

Good for you!❤🎉👏👏

[@marischoles5910]

Well done! It's not easy

[@verhextundlecker6071]

What a beautiful success - BE proud and BE Happy ❤

[@Ninjaflyingpinkducks]

I was amazed at how quickly my house went from a 1 to a 4 due to nesting. I got rid of so much stuff that family was so concerned they had to ask me if I was suicidal. My house is about 75% done in a week or two while I had the energy to do it. I did about 20 trash bags and about 20 donation bags. My next step is to get them out of my house so I can finish the rest. Feeling free! Feeling good! Feeling the stress leave!

[@Clutterbug]

I LOVE IT!!! way to go! Great job!!

[@xSimpleMindsx]

YAY

[@Ninjaflyingpinkducks]

Update. My house is still about 75% done. 😂 All of the trash is out and I have 1 bag of donations left. (It has a future home already) I have been able to keep the 75% clean and tidy and I love it. I plan to continue keeping up the daily dust and slowly tackling the rest. I am so glad I got it as far as I did BEFORE having my baby. Yikes. Having a 6 month old is no joke and the amount of ThInGs a baby has is insane and I was trying to be minimal. There is a season for everything and I'm patiently waiting for the season of "remodeling" so we can put actual closets in this house. I know there is no magic trick to get a clean house but sometimes you really do need a good closet and a shelf for the elf. 😂

[@AM-bm2xw]

"How am I letting junk from Walmart control my life!?" -- this line is very convicting and helpful!

[@paulajames6149]

My father in law passed in 2023. He paid for storage in 4 states across the US. My husband had to fly to all those areas to clean out 4 storage rooms plus his apartment. My husband was extremely stressed. And now he has a new perspective of keeping clutter in our house.

[@mariek.5667]

Been there…..I’m still stuck with a garage full of stuff my husband won’t let me get rid of😢

[@lisamiller4833]

Having the opposite to deal with someone's estate has been an eye opener! Problem is, that many items my friend kept I like too! To get the responsibility of his house over, had some estate sales... Donated some of remainder, moved the rest home. You get the picture! Lol. And my Dad, who was living with me passed. So have some of his stuff here too... I had started to declutter a couple years ago, then life happened. Or death, depending on how you look at it. My husband is a bit of a hoarder so he grabbed plenty from the estate's too. And daughter moved in with us, with baby, and all that stuff. This is quite challenging... have moved past the mourning, finally. Am going to focus on my collection, cause it involves independent decisions, but am finding if I'm not alone decluttering, near every item I pick up I have unasked for input on..." You're not getting rid of that, are you!?!". Which inevitably leads to debate. And I've already debated with myself. Argh. I will really be proud if I manage to declutter even one area... I've learned to use empty tubs as placeholders or family claims area to put more stuff they can't part with!

[@lisamiller4833]

I'm into Swedish death cleaning. I don't want to leave anyone with this mess, and want to be able to find and use what I need to use while I'm still alive. Lol

[@sonyad7723]

@@lisamiller4833 the people decluttering with you asking "you're not getting rid of that, are you?" Are these people who live with you? Or are they relatives who don't live with you but are helping you declutter? If just helping you but don't live with you, I would suggest that you plan in advance in your mind a reply sentence for this question, so you're prepared in advance and this way you're (hopefully) more prepared for the emotions that will come up with the items. I would suggest something very closed-ended (the opposite of an open-ended discussion type of thing) "Yes, I am. Do you want it? Otherwise it's going to Goodwill today." If they try to push "But, blah blah blah (insert emotions about it here)" Then I would say something like"Please don't. This decluttering is hard enough without bringing all this up about every single item." Maybe add a sniffle lol Ok, maybe the sniffle at the end is too manipulative lol

[@lisamiller4833]

@@sonyad7723 they live with me. Husband and daughter staying indefinitely with 8 month old daughter. Babies need equipment. Daughter takes everything offered to her and buys more. Oh, I forgot the two dogs. I have a cage for the one that pees on the floor in my living room. Daughter has issues. She turns anything I say into an argument. It's frustrating. Psychiatrist is hopefully getting her on some useful meds. I have people coming Sunday and they will have trouble navigating the baby stuff or even getting to a chair. Every time I make some room, been getting very creative, she hauls in something else. Her bedroom is packed full. We don't have an attic. I asked her to give baby a bath today. It's been four days. And I am trying to get ready for company and dinner. She got mad and said I told her she a rotten mother. Has weird stuff going on in her head. It's exhausting.

[@RainbowPyramid]

I am in CHAOS. Yesterday I started TRANSFORMATION in my bedroom (as per one of your other videos). 🙏💃I threw out one bag of trash and dropped off one bag of donations yesterday. SO glad you said this is only scratching the surface, because I can see that there is so much more to do, but at least it is a start.

[@cherylhornby5808]

I feel you. That's where I am, kind of 4 and a half

[@stefanifisherrn]

Same 💯

[@sonyad7723]

Yeah you!!!! Congratulations!!! Keep up the great work!!!!

[@tabathagrush8293]

Today is new years. I have been in the 4th stage for over a year. My husband died almost 2 years ago. He didn't help me clean but he would get fed up with the mess. We would fight, and I would clean. Without him to force me,it's WAY harder. I have never been the clean one. I guess I don't really know how. And I am lazy too 😪. But, this 3 day weekend I made a choice that I deserve a clean home. It's no were good enough. A stranger would look around and just see mess. But I see a difference. And I'm proud of the work I did.

[@kj7653]

Good for you. You did it. You did enough to see a difference.

[@kathleenkumiega1092]

I thought I wrote what you just said.

[@zapharancashaw118]

Hi Cas Happy Birthday. I'm 72yrs. young and you have taught me so much, who said you can't teach a old dog new tricks 😂 😅❤

[@KCtheSUNSHINE]

My family closed our business after 78 years and 3 generations. My elderly parents want to hang on to everything. We stuffed our home with so much it's suffocating. It was already full before we closed up shop. The middle floor where visitors see is acceptable, but the basement and the upstairs where I live are obnoxious. Not far off from an episode of hoarders minus the gross stuff. These videos and the minimalist mom, a slob comes clean and a to zen life are sick a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Thank you ladies.

[@Clutterbug]

You're so welcome!

[@courtneykern9276]

Yes!!! I'm there.

[@barbelkraft102]

Thanks to you, Dana and Dawn i am at Stage 0 now. Decluttered in 2017 with Marie Condo and got rid of about 60% of my stuff. Now i got rid of the last 20% and everything sits beautifully in shelves and closets and drawers . Even some empty drawers and shelves and i love it and the first time in my life i feel accomplished . And visitors can come in anytime. Sooo grateful ❤

[@lunizparlein173]

Ohhh 😍😊

[@DebK7-wr3ox]

this is the motivation I need to get up and start- thank you

[@songindarkness]

This is like an impossible dream to me right now 😅

[@Lindaastewart7015]

Wonderful! Good for you! That’s my goal!

[@cindyhenry1410]

Totally Stage 4 and starting Stage 5 in earnest. Several life changes in the last 5 years....my brother (a true level 5 hoarder who lived with my sister and completely hoarded out her house) died in 2019 and left her with a HUGE mess so I worked with her for the last 3 years clearing out her house and accumulating stuff in the process....then my mom developed dementia in the middle of all of that and we had to clear out her apartment and move her stuff to storage while looking for a house for my sister and mom to move into and I accumulated some of her stuff too. I also switched jobs, moved all that stuff out. My basement flooded in 2021....16” of water!! Had to move all that crap out of the basement into the garage to clean out the basement and it got all disorganized and I had to move it all back so now the garage and the basement are complete chaos!! I’ve also been accumulating craft supplies steadily since COVID. I’m so done!! I have a 5 day weekend now. Since all of these changes have passed and I don’t need to do things elsewhere I can focus on my own house. I am going to organize and declutter. I know it will be a long process but it needs to happen NOW! Already took 2 large boxes to the Good Will. TYFS! ❤️🦋💜

[@Rosa-kf6yy]

You hang in there. You have been hit by a tidal wave. One day at a time and don't forget to take a day for yourself now and then. Keep going. Keep listening to these motivational videos and keep filling boxes. YOU WILL GET THERE.

[@bodaciousmo]

You got this Cindy. My house became the landing pad for the fam with losing parents, grandparents, closing their businesses (anyone need trash grabbers! Ha). Give yourself grace that when you care it takes time. Dawn Dana and Cass have great content to keep you company while you push over the tipping point!! You can do it 🩷

[@leahrowe847]

Good luck... remember to post stuff for free & people will come get it, saving you time, gas, etc. Then whatever doesn't get picked up, you can haul & donate.

[@alenewinter7278]

Thank You, for the "Don't pass on the guilt about letting go of stuff." I needed that.

[@indianne9781]

What you said “this is a war and there will be casualties” really resonated with me. Love this!

[@yourenotworkingWHY]

I lost my husband 10 years ago. It took me 6 years to let go of his family history and things. It felt like I was letting him down but when I started decluttering I realized I needed to make a new life with space. Thank you Cas for reminding us, happiest is not taking care of stuff!!

[@simoneholenstein6977]

I too have a husband who struggled with letting go, not because he didn‘t want to, but because he felt beholden to the emotions other people loaded off on HIS stuff… we moved this year and used this as an opportunity to declutter. I gave him a treasur box big enough to keep a bunch of sentimental stuff but is still reasonably sized. he took to it like a fish to water - having a space to savely store the stuff he WANTS to keep gave him the freedom to reject the expectations of other people and throw away or donate stuff he just does not want to keep.

[@jademoseti8896]

I’ve been in stage 5 for 3 years. I haven’t brought anything into my space for a long time and I’m still getting rid of stuff weekly. I still feel somethings like paperwork are stage 2 cause I might lose something but it’s not often. I like the minimalist mindset and am a ladybug. Before Dana K White I didn’t know how to declutter. The combo of Dana, Dawn and Cass helped me find my mind. Thank you! 🙏🏽 🎉

[@Luvsthelilthingsnlife]

I’ve been in that stage since 2004 my father passed💔 then my mama passed in 2009…. I am doing this all by myself with no help and I’m hoping that I stick with it.🙏

[@jenmartin1116]

I always said I was overwhelmed.. recently (after christmas) I have been angry crying... I'm in CHAOS thank you for making this seem normal... glad to know this is the bottom and I can only get better :)

[@victoriachanel2493]

I have lots of stuff,not broken or junk, I am trying not to buy unnecessary things in the new year, I have given so much stuff away. I also have learned from my friend who is going through a divorce and had to declutter her almost hoarding house situation. She got five dumpsters and filled them all.. Made me really realize how much stuff is really important.

[@HappyHarryX5]

That’ll be life changing for her! Just gone through a divorce to a hoarder and had to clean up the mess he left. It was so good to get rid of the memories of how the rooms looked that I do a Wonder Woman twirl in each of the every time I go in them. I’m not buying anything that I don’t need now too. All the best to the two of you for the new year. ❤

[@llbianca]

@@HappyHarryX5 go Wonder Woman 💪💪

[@victoriachanel2493]

@fionaschiffl8065 Thank you, and yes, same situation as you, she is cleaning up all the crap that he refused to have picked up, donated, or thrown out. So crazy the amount of money he wasted, just to be thrown in the trash. The last dumpster arrived today, blessings to you on your new life and journey 🙏🏼

[@shellebelle093]

I consider the money I spent on an item that I am now decluttering as having been spent on 'entertainment'. I felt good when I bought it or received it, but it's served it's purpose now, and you can let it go.

[@aprilwilson6136]

The only thing you will lose with this great course is the crap. The stacks. The anxiety. The shame. The overwhelm. The stress. The negative self talk. You will gain your house. Your relationships. Your sanity. It is worth its weight in gold, or the piles of stuff you give away and throw away.

[@briwells]

I'm between stages 4 and 5. I have 2 spare rooms and a basement full of clutter to the point that the areas are unusable. Last week we had heavy rain that flooded my basement and ruined so many of my belongings. I had no choice but to start cleaning it all out. As a female with ADHD, this is hard for me because I get overwhelmed with emotions over any stress so quickly. But now I've started clearing out the 2 spare rooms and donated an entire car full of things last week. It's progress but I'm still having trouble finishing the process but I think I'll get there.

[@kristywhited8857]

I'm stuck between Stages 4 and 5. I started to declutter several years ago and got rid of a LOT of my possessions. But I continued to shop and bring things into my home and now I feel I need to start over. Bad shopping habits is my biggest obstacle.

[@melissaemert9328]

I have found it harder to pass things on since the pandemic. I used to think that if I needed to replace it, I would just get another one or look for it at the thrift store. Now that things are higher priced, I'm holding onto it longer. I have to remember that peace of mind will come if I let it go and know that someone will be blessed to have it.

[@cynthiafowles1257]

I deal with this as well. Also the quality just is not there. I feel as if the manufacturers have deliberately built in wear out tendencies, especially in clothing.

[@lunizparlein173]

​@cynthiafb owles1257 because the most of things are made in China now

[@toomanymarys7355]

If it's not toilet paper, don't keep it. 😂

[@MCSK711]

I've always had clutter even though I know how to organize with fancy little containers, labels & all. Over the years I've organized the closets, shoes, pantry, bathrooms & they're still organized. However the kitchen counters, dining room, garage & laundry/clothes continue to stay out of control. I realize now it's because that's where I over buy. Recently I've just gotten the motivation to purge. The past month I've taken weekly loads to donate or throw away. Like you said I can barely tell a difference but I'm still working on it. I'm still chipping away. My goal is by Christmas we have the kitchen counter back so I can make cookies with my kids & have Christmas dinner in the dining room. These are great tips. For many reasons, 2024 is definitely going to be my year!

[@ForJesus34]

Thanks Cas, l am 72 and now can see the light at the end of the tunnel! Happy now that l can find everything! And was surprised how much stuff and $ and still I didn't use! So that's what made me not to buy anything else unless I absolutely need it!😀

[@bonnytiley3998]

I’m in stage 1 and 2. We just bought our first home about a year ago and working on getting all our spaces organized as well as looking at where we actually use those items vs where "they should go" mindset. I’m constantly revisiting the spaces and tweaking until it feels right for our needs.

[@michiemontgomery8305]

I think I'm an average of a 3 now. I have places that are going into 4 and places that are about a 2. I was really deep into 4 when I got divorced and really felt scarcity mentality. Thank you for talking about it being a natural instinct. When you went through all the list of why we feel bad about decluttering and why we collect, I felt like it opened me up to actually listen to today's society gives us too many opportunities to collect and we can always go get what we need. Right now, I'm trying to keep finding the time to declutter, but it's so easy to keep trying to borrow from tomorrow instead...

[@dulcieevans4621]

I just emptied a HUGE storage .. I’ve paid for storage of one size or another since somewhere between 2007-2012 .. now I need to go thru my entire small home plus a house where I put that stuff. I’m challenging myself to make this next year MY year to take MY life back!! THANK YOU Cass!!

[@rbar4413]

I am in stage 2.5. I have corners and closets that are busting at the seams. In the last year, I have cleared out my inlaws 3 bdrm, 2-bath home with 2 car garage and 2 other outdoor buildings because they went into assisted living. We got rid of most everything by donating what they could not use to several charitable agencies. Then my fil passed and I had to downsize that for them again. We kept some family heirloom things which has stressed my current situation out. My goal this year is to go room by room and regain a healthy balance. Everyone should consider this especially if they are middle-aged because at some point that will be YOU.

[@glitterwario1630]

I’ve been getting lots of therapy and medications the past year. I’m in my 40s and just got diagnosed with adhd. Your videos have helped me transform my home and my life has been so much more peaceful. And I actually enjoy my space. I still lose lots of things but it’s way easier to find.

[@DesigingJ]

I’ve listened to you, Dawn, and Dana for years. I made progress with all of your help. But I need to get ruthless again. It occurred to me this morning that my crafts are out of control and it’s affecting the rest of my house. So I just boxed up fabric that I finally admitted to myself I will never sew. I’m determined to declutter enough of my hobby stuff so that I can store it in the space designated for my hobbies. That means no more storing craft supplies in my bedroom or living room. I’ve got a lot of work to do. I tire easy so I need to take breaks. However I plan to stay focused and I think that will get me where I want to be. Thanks

[@songindarkness]

In Stage 4 and it’s so hard. I have depression and anxiety and I believe undiagnosed ADHD. My life is Chaos. I can’t invite people over. And I really didn’t know what to do until I found your channel. Especially because it’s made me realise my husband thinks we are stage 2 but we are stage 4. Your videos are so great because you meet everyone where they are - like the advice on how to train people to declutter is so great because I need it for myself!!! I’m ready for Transformation now. Thank you. 🙏 ❤ 🙏❤️🙏

[@katsspace4688]

In 2020, our home was in stage 1 when i began to feel like it was in stage 5. Almost 4 years later, our home is peaceful, always tidy and soooo easy to maintain….yet our home isn’t bare. We thought we’d get rid of a few things but ended up getting rid of 75% of our things…..and we don’t miss ANY of it.

[@sonyad7723]

I'm here now!!! My perspective doesn't match my reality!!! My apartment is basically stage 0.25 in bedroom and bathroom, 0.75 in dining room and miniature laundry closet but everywhere else is probably 1.25 (trying to use her scale more descriptively here), but I FEEL LIKE all the 1.25 areas/rooms are like 3-4 stages!!!! AHHHHHHHH!!!!! I Don't know how to reconcile my brain so I don't just take a shovel to everything and toss it with the trash just to buy another deorderant, shampoo and conditioner, purse, etc. After all we DO need some stuff to live comfortably!!!

[@sonyad7723]

I think I just need to keep at it, my trouble spots (my paperwork, my Amazon returns, my messy donation bin, this clutter in my front door area that I constantly see ALL THE FRIGGIN TIME) that's probably getting fed up with to just seeing clutter 'everywhere' in my brain???

[@katsspace4688]

And the reason we don't miss any of it is because we got rid of the stuff that we didn't actually want. Most of it was in kitchen cupboards, in drawers, in the linen cupboards etc... things that were taking up valuable real estate

[@claresmyth9645]

Oh boy, I was in stage 2 for so long, then Covid hit, major depression as a result, caregiving for my mom with dementia, her passing away, then helping out with my brother who was hospitalized for most of last year then unexpectedly passed away in late November. All of that brought me to stage 4 at Christmas, no desire to decorate at all. Now in at stage 5, ready to transform my home and get to stage 1. I deserve it and I'm worth it!!!

[@kathryncarlino]

Thanks for these helpful tips! I make a trip to Goodwill about once a month. It’s empowering and cathartic! I fill my SUV with whatever needs to go. I feel good that I am not just throwing items into the dumpster, and I imagine that someone else will delight in finding my former treasures, and give them a good home! It’s the best feeling! I cannot be a minimalist, but I stay clutter free. If I add something new, I must remove something old.

[@MsKittyBlue]

So young...I'll be 52 this year! I know this is a older vid but Happy Birthday! Love your videos I've chosen this year to be clutter free! or at least mostly gotta get my husband on board..lol. I just started watching vids this year. I'm excited for the journey. I think I've been in stage 4 for a long time. I'd say I'm mostly at stage 5 I just need the change. Most of the home is doing good but the areas that are my own and the basement is a struggle because of so much $$$ on what I've purchased especially my overwhelming doll collection. I've been really good this year of not purchasing things now just need to purge stuff.

[@MrsRepairTech]

Hubby and I moved into my mom & sisters' apartment after my mom passed away, to help sister with the bills & estate. The apartment was stage 4 for months (we put our own belongings in storage). Six months ago, we were able to start making real progress. We're down to between stages 2-3, and I'm looking forward to living in a decluttered home again. My husband has been the real saint in all this.

[@angelinareynolds5055]

I just found a $2000.00 check by clearing my desk! We have moved the old man down to another stste.. everything was left I'm frozen from being overwhelmed !

[@woohoomommy]

Thank you so much for telling women that we are LEADERS. We don't hear that enough, but it is so, SO true! 👏🏼

[@thelastwish558]

Im somewhere between stage 3 and 4. If I want to clean it takes me hours to just tidy my place enough for cleaning. My cluttered house isn't causing me financial issues. Most of my friends are understanding but I don't feel comfortable inviting people over. Ive had fights with my mum because of the stage where my house is. And the clutter is definitely affecting my mental health badly but I'm bad at decluttering and getting things done.

[@JudyVinAZ]

Thank you, Cas. I have to watch your videos over and over because I forget. I am 77, much better than I used to be, but always need to keep up with my organization goals. I constantly tell myself, “put that away. Remember Jud, you’re a Butterfly, and Butterflies get in? trouble.” Only those who have watched and applied what you teach, will understand that one.

[@colleenacourtney]

I was at Stage 4 or 5. I have started eating healthy and have lost 18 lbs and now finally have the energy and motivation to do the work. I have been off work the last 4 days and have 1 more day off. I have been decluttering non stop these last 4 days and listening to your videos the whole time. I am at the point that I just want to throw everything away. I’ve finished both bathrooms, my kitchen, pantry and a junk drawer. It feels SOOOO GOOD to start making progress! Thank you Cass!!! ❤❤❤

[@michelleweber-bz6py]

I’m at a 4! Super rough 2023. Please do more videos in paper clutter! My dad passed away this year & I have piles, boxes and bags of his paperwork on top of my own! I’m paralyzed by the thought of even starting! On the plus side, I’m a butterfly and I got my bathroom decluttered & organized this year! ❤

[@justusewater1]

Hugs and prayers

[@webbisking]

I have a box I keep by the front door; I call it the no questions asked box. If my kids or husband throws something in there, I will get rid of it without questions.

[@resh-zp9hg]

Happy Birthday!!! My daughter’s (32) birthday is today, and mine (66) is tomorrow. I’m in the process of major decluttering, and it’s overwhelming. I have come to the realization I am a hoarder, not a nasty hoarder, but an over abundant collector of stuff. I am ready for transformation!!! I love following you and all your helpful tips

[@irismorant3970]

Happy belated birthday Cas!!!! I’m in Chaos stage. One of my problems is once I clean an area, my husband feels like I cleaned it for something of his. It drives me nuts

[@emmabrice9592]

Stage 5 hit before Christmas after being in stage 3-4 for the past 3 or so years. The best part is my husband got on board after unintentionally listening to one of your videos 😂 Thanks heaps ❤ Happy Birthday 🎉

[@arizonashopper5095]

Unintentionally listened to one? LOL. Maybe I can play Cas' videos at night next to me to reinforce this via osmosis. 😂

[@ericaknutzen4787]

I came for tough love cas. Thank u for lol ur content. Really needed to hear ur comparison with debt, “borrowing from tomorrow and tomorrow is worse, but what if we borrow from today to make tomorrow better” thank u!!

[@Clutterbug]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ChristysChannelYall]

I’m a minimalist, stage 1, maintaining. I’m this way to manage my ADHD. Cass, you are so correct, you will not remember what you let go. I let go of a solid 75% of my stuff and there is only one thing that I wish I hadn’t decluttered…a high school yearbook, I got rid of the wrong one, but that is it. Not one other thing have I missed. It is so peaceful. I have so much time that I never used to have when I was constantly cleaning. Now I’m decluttering my email. As a Gen X person who did not grow up with technology, that is a whole other fiasco 😂. There were over 60,000 when I started. I’m down to 26,000 😅 and the only reason I’m doing this is because the computer said the email was almost full and it’s the only one I want to have. I can’t keep track of digital mess well at all.

[@EmOrganizer]

Re: the yearbook. Fumio Sasaki in 'Goodbye, Things' uses that as an example of something you can safely let go of. Because if you want to revisit it, you can reach out to a schoolmate or college mate and have a look though their copy. 😊 Great job decluttering and maintaining!

[@leahrowe847]

I have all mine & love sharing with kids/grandchildren, so I relate

[@barbarabrainard1436]

There are websites like Classmates that have copies of old yearbooks from schools all over. It can't hurt to look if they have yours available.

[@plovenmark6424]

For decluttering your email account, have you researched for quick techniques? It was taking me ages to get rid of companies I didn’t want contracting me, but they reappeared until I found solutions. Just find one(s) that work for you.

[@deleciasmith3461]

Had to call Junk Removal to clear stuff from previous marriage and my adult son who wants mom to keep his stuff. I declare my new life in organization

[@Clutterbug]

You've got this!

[@cindywinters2029]

Thank you for the videos you post. I have started to declutter my house and down sizing even our house. Feels so good. Our kids came for Christmas dinner and thought the living room and kitchen were bigger felt so proud. Thanks again for all the support and encouragement.

[@Clutterbug]

Woohoo! You're so welcome!

[@nikkiechaggykat8488]

I’m drowning. First time listening and happy to find your videos. I’m a definite stage 4 ready for stage 5, but so overwhelmed. 😅

[@donnaseeton1473]

You are such a blessing to anyone who is watching. I watched this live, jumped up and went after a pile that had accumulated in a corner of my bedroom. I gave my kids until next week, if it’s not gone, off to goodwill. Thank you for helping us. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@allein1001]

I watched it while sorting the socks and stuff that have been sitting in my dryer and a basket for over a week.

[@jeojeo9393]

The one key thing that you said was you said take sure everything has a home We live on a farm and the outside area is always a challenge to keep tidy Now it is a lot easier as for each item that was making a mess - I created a home for each item Step by step This made a HUGE difference And now we know where all of these items are and can be found So that was a light bulb moment for us

[@Clutterbug]

Love that!

[@angelahagemeyer698]

Scarcity mindset can be so hard to overcome. My husband’s parents are actual hoarders and they often write what they paid for something on the bottom of it. He grew up being reminded exactly how much everything cost. It’s extremely difficult for him to let go of things. I grew up with a completely opposite family, so it’s difficult for us to see eye to eye; he used to go through things (even my personal things) that I declutter. Our house and barn are so completely different - after years of being at this, the house is so decluttered but his shop and barn are a cluttered mess. He is not at all ready to try to declutter. I keep hoping he will, but I can’t force him. It’s a constant balancing act for us, but that doesn’t stop me from maintaining.

[@kaywilliams1065]

I'm not a puppy, But, my daughter in law helped me (I had her watch you, Dana and Dawn) and we went through my kitchen like a house of fire😂 Got a LOT out❤

[@christenmassey2871]

I’m definitely at stage 5!! I just joined Take Your House Back thanks to Dawn’s lives this week. I love all 3 of you and I’ve been following all 3 of you and have been decluttering my house for the last 9 years since my hubby died. My kids were really young (2 mos, 19 mos and 7 years old) when he passed away. He loved stuff and needed to see it. I’m a ladybug so it drove me nuts!! The first few years were easy because it was all the easy stuff. I’m finally to the hard stuff. Now I’m feeling stuck. I’m tired of decluttering and the hard decisions are… hard. I’ve stalled and things have piled up again. And I started working full time teaching kindergarten a year and a half ago so I’m exhausted when I get home. But I’m ready to go again!! I really am going to get my house back this year!! Like Dawn said, peace over possessions!! That’s going to be my motto for this year!!

[@FlowerPowerWV]

You've been through so much and you're working so hard. Be easy on yourself ❤

[@namhfonxox6059]

I am thankful for your help. I hope you know how much and how many people you've help people. I thought I was just bad at tidying and that I will never be able to do it alone. I was abandon when I was a child and when I was a teenager I moved many many times a year for at least 8 years in a roll. I have it easy to let go of thing because I knew I could buy another but I still have box and boxes of thing. The worse was that I was bad at organizing and putting things back and it made me feel like an unworthy human being who's never going to be able to live with anyone else. But now that I know I am a butterfly I could organize better. This fear of "out of site out of mind is so true". This hopefully will make it easy for my to put things back.

[@melaniemcgarry5271]

Finally someone who just says “fill a trash bag with kids art and gifts given from Mom! “ That’s the permission we, who are stuck, need. Being told to “just let it go” doesn’t help. (As most declutterers tell us). What does that even mean? Go where? But, “put it in the trash, it’s ok”……that helps!! Thanks Cass!❤️

[@marylut6077]

Where do we get the message we must keep forever gifts we don’t like? Mom taught me to say Thank you, never that I had to keep it

[@CajunBoudreaux]

I’m a very sentimental person. I inherited some of my grandparents things. They hold awesome childhood memories. ADHD and very visual.

[@lindabourketempleton4040]

While I was listening I answered my own questions I put my X-rays in my memory box, decluttered two things instructions and warranties went in my cart next to my desk and the important box went to donation, I also decluttered my three bathroom drawers and my pantry while I listened and did a load of dishes and got a load of washing ready as well as put away the dried clothes, amazing what you can accomplish in a small amount of time thanks CAS

[@katecatalano4568]

This inspired me to START what seems like a daunting and overwhelming task. Hopefully I can keep it up

[@JB-wp2gn]

“Stuff shuffle” I relate to this!

[@intuitive_duck]

I totally understand the stages. “I’m sick and tried of being sick and tired! This isn’t too bad. Oh man, now it’s getting difficult. This is overwhelming, I feel awful. My hubby knows I’m unhappy about it and he’s trying his best and I feel guilty about making him worry about me. I finally got the hang of it! Our whole household feels more comfortable and peaceful.”

[@helengesell2668]

I was in stage 3, fell on the ice, and I am now I am in chaos. My spirit is willing but my body is in pain after 10 minutes.😢

[@rxanmurray]

Oh I love what you did here.. what stage am I in.. 😮 I’m struggling with it, now I see where I am and yes I’m trying to get out of that last stage and transition is already happening, it’s slow for me but I’ve started.. I’m another new follower and I love you. My youngest son of 3, just moved out this January and it’s sad for me, but I want a new clean environment without clutter. I do struggle with the memories and now I know that ADHD is a big part of my life that I’ve struggled with 😢. Thank you ❤

[@coffeecatcoziness]

Before watching, just have to spread some love: Cas, I actually look FORWARD to doing my dishes & cleaning my kitchen now, because that is my allotted time that I get to put on my earbuds, turn on one of your videos or podcasts, and zone out! You are such a joy to listen to and I appreciate all of your realness and tips! Hope you had a Merry Christmas ❤

[@HappyHarryX5]

Please bottle the enjoyment and discipline and send it to me!!! Happy New Year! ❤

[@cassiestark4319]

Thank you so much for your encouragement. I’m finally in stage 5 and I owe a lot to your videos and advice. 💜

[@nancytim1486]

My house is very organized and 95% clutter free in all of my rooms but my craft room. I do declutter it, but I also bring in a lot of stuff. I take a vehicle load of stuff to Goodwill at least every two months. I feel like I am on top of things, but I still love to watch your videos. You're sweet, funny, and an inspiration. I luckily grew up with a mom whose mantra was a place for everything and everything in its place.

[@barbarajones2350]

Happy Birthday girl ! I just found you on UTube. I can identify with you. I appreciate your sharing the things that you have felt and struggles.

[@daydreamsbymary]

I was pushed into stage 4 when a storage unit full of tools and related items were moved into my condo with a one stall garage. I’ve spent the last two years to fix damage done and add shelves and bins. Now I’m still need to work on papers and photos. Still a bit to fix and more clothes to declutter. I’m a bit stuck yet know what I’ve accomplished so far. Love your channel!!!

[@VeeWiz-knowledgeoflife907]

I’m at war with my house right now! I’m throwing things out !!! I paid someone two times to clean my place I didn’t realize decluttering is my problem not just cleaning and tidying up

[@Charlie-558]

I feel like, since I went through one BIG Transformation Phase and REALLY decluttered down to the space I have available right now, I've been cycling through the phases in shorter intervals (within a few weeks/months). That means, I still have too much stuff for me to manage, even when I'm technically at stage one again right now. Thank you ❤️ This is a very important realisation I needed, to go forward. 😊

[@moonlitpearl700]

I’m drowning too. Been trying to organize my closet shelves. I have to clear junk out. Your videos are helping me. Thank you

[@TamaraHammes-f8v]

Im so ready also!! Im disabled and I m going to get my two kids together for a week and they are going to help me go through every closet and cupboard!! Thank you Cas!

[@homethatilove4595]

I know for a fact you'll love when your kids visit & help you 💝💝

[@marylut6077]

Avoid burnout, set 25 min timer and take a 15 min break to celebrate/relax, repeat.

[@sillypplproductions2]

Cas, I wish I had people in my life whom I could trust to just hold stuff up and not judge me on what I keep versus getting rid of...my mom would be the closest one, bc she hasn't majorly pressured me when we've gone through stuff before, but even she'd probably say something after a while. A really big struggle with me just has been that anxiety of having others help and feeling like they're going to get rid of your stuff and you constantly have to be on alert for them to not do that. I'm only partway through this replay, but I do think that your videos have been helping me little by little. This video is particularly pertinent to me; I'm at stage 2, and I'm trying to keep myself from going further. Sorry for the ramble, I enjoy popping in to see what tips I can glean from you and your experiences!

[@dawnjeffersramstad8401]

Cas, I couldn't join the live, but one idea that helped me with the thought "my house is too small" was thinking "this house was big enough for a family of 6 in 1960 when it was built." The first thing that changed for me with that thought is assuming I can fit the all clothes I wear over a year (4 seasons)in a single closet built for two people when we went from being a family of 5 to being a family of 3. And you are so right about influencing my husband by example. We are now empty nesters, and it feels so good to be decluttering our way SLOWLY to an inevitable move 2 bedroom senior apartment at an unknown future date. My husband's twin is a little jealous, and I find that to be weirdly motivating praise. 😂

[@deborahpetipas9365]

Stage 3 almost 4. I have inherited things from in laws grand parents and 2 adult children moved home. All their stuff came with them. I used to be stage 1. My mental state is now a ball of confusion!

[@poppet808]

Back in September i was at Chaos level and signed up to your 30 day course, which is excellent!!! Unfortunately soon after i started i unexpectedly landed in hospital for a week and when i was home, naturally friends and family wanted to visit. The house was a complete mess as i was only up to lesson 4 of the course. I said to my husband, under no circumstance is anyone to visit. I remember feeling extreme levels of anxiety, afraid and embarrassed if people were to see such mess and piles of stuff around the house. Now i am finally well enough to continue the course and look forward to clearing it all out and keeping it that way as i never want to feel that anxiety ever again. You're so right, chaos level has put a strain on our relationship and also stopped us from having friends over and living in our home how we would like to. Thank you for all your helpful videos that give us guidance and practical tips and advice ❤ Bless xx

[@terribealer8164]

Oh my gosh I’m in stage 5. It’s all going! Out the door! Thank you. You’re helping save my life!!!! Taking my life back, thank you for sharing and empowering us!!! B

[@joycebates6411]

My whole life has been consistently 3-4. I'm so thankful for you and Dana K White. (I'm not a mom, so I don't follow Dawn on a regular basis.😉) I'm now beginning stage 5. I've been doing dishes every day. I've gotten some visual areas under control. Had a friend over the other day...so I threw all the piles on the dining room table into a drawer...Should have done it differently since now it is a nightmare. Paperwork is my biggest nemesis.

[@Clutterbug]

This video should help! kzbin.info/www/bejne/p52YiHdspLaZd8U

[@ladyb5888]

JOYCE BATES: Wish there was a way you and I could stay in touch. I am in your situation, too. I did the 4 Days Reset with Dawn and bought the classes. My son is grown and married now with a mortgage and a 2 year old. I still watch Dawn. There is always something you can learn without being a mom. All 3 are Awesome! We could motivate each other. How do we stay in touch? Any ideas, Joyce?

[@ladyb5888]

I sent you a reply. 😃

[@HappyHarryX5]

Way to go on reaching stage 5! In life we’re always better at some things than others so be kind to you. Dishes and vacuuming are my nemesis. I always deal with paperwork as soon as it comes into my home or email. Bills get written on the list (with the email date) and crossed off as soon as they’re paid. If it’s info about an account I’ll either file it or write a summary for the file. If it’s a shopping docket, it goes in the recycle container until bin day which is usually when the stuff has been used by or checked. Most paper is torn in half for shoppings lists and added to the stash on the fridge. Plastic windows from envelopes get torn out and trashed while the envelope becomes a to do list. A warranty or instructions go into the warranty box.Any spare parts/cords go into a ziploc bag into a container with what item they belong to written on it. The box/foam that the item came in is generally kept for the 1yr warranty period and then trashed. I know my Mum’s frustration with paperwork so I made a rule for myself that I dealt with it immediately. Then I’ll find a few old shopping lists in my handbag…Ugh! Dealing with paperwork immediately is much less stressful.

[@dulcieevans4621]

Dawn has a ton of helpful information.. I’m almost 60 and didn’t watch her as much at first.. now I’m on top of ALL three of these ladies content and newest videos .. I find I do better combing the 3.. I found Dana first. Cass helps me deal better with the ADHD. Dana is the straight forward one and Dawn is so sweet I’m drawn to her .. I’m seriously contemplating committing to the coarse today .. I’m doing well on my “no spend” challenge though 😂

[@ericarutter7770]

What hit me was the, “I am more important than ____”. I am more important than these items.

[@Candlelit0]

Happy Birthday Cas 🎉 I’m in stage 1. I have worked on clutter for many years. When new things come. We must analyze what must go and vice versa. We are continually changing! Thanks for your tips 😄

[@adagar59]

All righty. The gal who took everything everyone else didn't want. Plus.... I've been working at this for the last few years but never made much headway until YOU! I am playing and replaying in the background. You are harsh and to the point and talking specifically to ME. How did you know? I am not full ADHD but definitely have a few of the tendencies....thank you. My son will be forever grateful as he is taking over the farm which in time will mean everything that is here that I collected. I am doing this for myself...to play with grandkids...have less clutter....disaster and for him...the poor afraid young man! Love ya to pieces!!!! Thank you from my brain that is now feeling less full! Debbie. Alberta, Canada.

[@katiefromm3546]

Cas, you’ve changed my life! You’re the best of the best! Thank you thank you thank you!

[@Clutterbug]

You're so welcome!

[@annabanaz9049]

Happy Birthday from Manchester UK! You have inspired me but TODAY my husband caught the motivation to sort our house out. Im feeling empowered but shocked the i am finally seeing my clutter and letting it go while showing my family the importance of loving our home in a new way and really consider what we choose to keep in our surroundings!

[@scrapstreams]

Thanks to yourself, Dana and the Minimal Mom, I have been moving from.stage 5 to 4 and 3. So much has left our home and not only is this calming me, but it will help me tremendously as I learn to deal with new medical issues.

[@elizabethsydnor5247]

My biggest problem is keeping good quality items that need a repair, but I'm drowning in unfinished projects that are visible EVERYWHERE! OH MY!!! If I give them away, they would be trashed since people don't have time to fix everything!

[@lisap7084]

Thank you for sharing. I appreciate your compassion and empathy. I listened to this while gardening because I couldn't stand the thought of going inside my home and decluttering. I need your program so dang bad! I will check out the payment plans. God bless each of you ladies!

[@MsDoglover02]

I'm so glad I signed up for TYHB! I'm working on hidden clutter and am getting so much accomplished! I took 10.8lbs of paper to shred and it felt great! That doesn't count all the paper I threw away or recycled. My bedroom closet, linen closet and cabinet under kitchen sink are done already!

[@CajunBoudreaux]

I got rid of stuff from my childhood and has so regretted it ever since. It wasn’t a lot of stuff but I still to this day regret it so much. Very visual person and sentimental.

[@smz5302]

I've been downsizing for 13 years now. I'm down to the ID & the EGO stuff! I'm left with a table FULL of family antiques I need to sell. I can do it! 2024 here I come!!! You're such a great cheerleader, Cas. Thank you!

[@cynthiafowles1257]

Take pictures and write down the stories. An album takes up lots less space. Or, if someone in the family does genealogy, let them know you are looking to let them go. If they are just collected antiques, good luck and God Bless!

[@MissKrisTee]

I am in Chaos stage and I hate it! We moved into this rental in October, and every single room is STILL full of boxes, LITERALLY! I do not know where to start and I do feel like I am drowning! I cannot get my furniture out of storage because of the boxes 🤦🏻‍♀️. It’s horrible, depressing, and so exhausting! I’ve just found your channel and have watched a few videos, and I’m ready to start but I get overwhelmed so fast!

[@sherryhudson9075]

Have you ever seen an artist painting a picture for weeks on end? And they are not happy with it. They get out the gesso primer and completely blot out that painting with the gesso. And then start over and this time they paint a beautiful painting that they are happy with. It’s the same thing

[@deborahpetipas9365]

Lol the age thing! My mom is 6 yrs younger than my dad. She always said she was already the next year. Right now shell tell you she in her 90s. She just turned 89. Dads been gone for 14 yrs so it shouldnt be the reason now, Ill go with your reason!!!

[@jenniferdollar8277]

I found this video at 1 am & am bookmarking/saving it. This is just what I needed to gain some much needed motivation & probably will need to watch several times over to keep going. Thank you for doing what you do to help me & many others, & Happy Birthday. ❤

[@DaisyShrider]

I came to the realization that my kids deserved not having to deal with all this when I'm gone. I'm glad I got rid of so much that now my life's better now. Still have more to do but it's getting easier day by day.

[@Clutterbug]

Thanks for sharing!

[@billieknight9562]

I was drowning in paperwork sooooo I bought a 4 drawer filing cabinet. That helped for awhile but suddenly I was drowning again! My brilliant idea was to buy another filing cabinet. Never ever did I consider purging any of that paperwork. Our daughter moved in to help us in our old age and she has taught me that we don’t need to save every receipt, every paid bill. This is our beginning, next are closets!

[@JeannineFrattaliKoskey]

I just found you yesterday. I have watched others, but you are the best and really get down to the psychology of clutter.