THE TRUTH ABOUT GETTING TIDY THAT CHANGED MY LIFE

I’ve been on a slow growth over the last 5 years of learning to be a more tidy person, naturally. On this journey, I’ve tried a lot of things, lots that I’ve shared on this channel. But, I’ve ultimately come to a big conclusion over the past 5 years, one overarching lesson I’ve come to realize when it comes to being a more tidy person, and that is that it doesn't matter how great my routines are or how epic my organization bins and containers are, I’ll never be able to maintain a tidy space, consistently, for the long haul, if I have too much stuff. At the end of the day, it came down to learning how to declutter, and how to declutter consistently, not once in a while.
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[@jessicasommerfeld9038]

I've adopted a new rule that for every package that is delivered I need to fill that package or box back up with things to get rid of. This keeps the balance of things in and things out of the home.

[@ColeAF1989]

Awesome idea Jessica!

[@corrinnacorrinna5572]

Great tip!!!

[@louisaseapy6117]

But there are always air bags in my packages! Surely that part doesn't count!🤣

[@louisaseapy6117]

But no, for real that's a great idea. 👏👏👏

[@serenakoleno9338]

And if you're already overwhelmed, maybe one in , two (or three) out.

[@bellasweetness69]

Years ago, a wise friend once told me,” organized clutter is still clutter”. His quote stuck with me since.

[@l.258]

good one!

[@waterlilly1498]

Almost every minimalist here on KZbin is using that phrase 😁

[@hope_bear]

That's deep.

[@lauranewman564]

Love this!

[@carish1452]

I think it comes from the book Clutter’s Last Stand. Phenomenal and humorous book from the mid-80s! Don Aslett was way ahead of the minimalist and decluttering game. My parents were raised by people who loved stuff after living through the Great Depression. That book was literally on my nightstand as a first-grader, but I still need reminders of that catchphrase!

[@jacquelinek5036]

When I am holding on to an item because "I might need it someday," I find it helpful (sometimes) to think of the person who definitely needs it now. If they were standing before me I would say "please, take it. I'm not using it, it's just taking up space." Why not give the item to the thrift store. You'll never know who's day you made.

[@kimba8387]

Yes!!! God bless xo

[@TheOrganizedPineapple]

Great way to look at it!

[@SaraTimmy]

Yes! Ive also adopted the idea that if i need this item in the future I’ll just buy another one. Most of the time I never need the item again

[@soccermommyNPC]

Wow. Great way to think of it. Growing up I was taught “if you have two coats, give one to someone who has none.”

[@supernova622]

A lot of stuff in thrift stores ultimately ends up in the garbage. If possible, try to give it away on next door, Craigslist, local Facebook groups, etc first.

[@sadie6586]

The minimal mom talks about the idea of inventory in our homes and it is so powerful. Things in our home take time and mental space for us to keep them

[@ecbrent2]

I think of everything as inventory now and do I have room for this or do I want to make a place for that and do I want to take care of this, keep it clean, dry etc. It is definitely powerful. I also love Dana K White. I love her idea of if you want to put something away and there's no room, then you have to get rid of one thing to fit it.

[@katia.luna213]

Yep, and it's not worth it at all. I'm in a shared space, and even as a minimalist I'll still find stuff to declutter and consolidate!!! It's crazy. I was so happy last night because the few hours or so that I spent going through important papers and other things left me with so much less. It feels amazing 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@donnaclark6711]

When I heard Dawn say that, a lightbulb went off. Thinking of everything I brought into my house as inventory changed my life.

[@TheOrganizedPineapple]

YES. I don't want a bunch of stuff sucking my time, energy, and life away!

[@dirtroaddee3192]

I love her. I've learned so much from her methods.

[@irynas.6904]

I think for me the second biggest problem with this would be that we're talking about a four person household where only one person is responsible of managing the stuff, creating systems, actually doing the work and then the rest keeps cluttering it back up.

[@Coffeecup.0110]

I’ve taken 6 carloads of stuff to the donation center. My house is so so so much easier to manage. It’s done wonderful things for my mental health and productivity. Straightening up is super quick and I’m just overall happier. 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊

[@sct4040]

Be careful not to allow the clutter to come home again. You will also save so much money.

[@patwagner9308]

We're working on it, Maggie. Oh, we've got SO much we don't even use. A few days ago we dropped off a car load to donation center....this Tues. we're going to do it again.....We need to make 6 drop-offs, too, at least! I'm already seeing a difference & that's such a good feeling. I finally got around to clearing off a small chest & I've noticed that when I look at it now, I smile. That tells me what it's going to be like when our whole house is cleared of too much stuff. And good for you! You've already done it !

[@Coffeecup.0110]

@@patwagner9308 oh I’m still working on my house, too! I de-cluttered my laundry room today and I have another carload ready for donation. It feels so much lighter in my house now. It’s incredible and I’m going to keep going! Good luck on your journey! 😀❤️👏☀️

[@patwagner9308]

@@Coffeecup.0110 Thank you ! It's amazing how stuff accumulates. When my husband was in the USAF & we moved often, we didn't collect so much. But we've been in the same house now for over 27 yrs. & wow, it has piled up. We're working on it, tho. It really does improve your mental state to get rid of the clutter. I wish you good luck on your continuing journey. You've made me smile & that's always a good thing.

[@SpectrumOfChange]

@@patwagner9308 yep, absolutely. I used to have to move around a lot too, and it was easy to keep possessions to a minimum. You don't realize that it's not a skill, your circumstances are just making it natural to be low inventory. Then you settle down somewhere and reality hits .. after a decade or two time delay. 😂

[@christinegagne4262]

I don't think people realize how true this statement is, it's so hard to stay tidy/clean/organized if you have too much stuff! How do you know when you have just the right amount? When your home takes less effort to maintain. Try it, it works!

[@sarahbernhard4939]

I had mental breakdown about five years ago. I was so stressed and my anxiety was super high, I just snapped. I started therapy, taking anxiety medication, and DECLUTTERING. Everything I did made a very positive impact but decluttering was such an important part of the puzzle to solving my mental health struggles. I suggest your videos to all my friends. You give such simple advice that anyone can start implementing right away that makes a huge difference. Thank you so much for the quality content!

[@TheOrganizedPineapple]

I had a similar experience 4 years ago and have been on my minimalism journey ever since. Would not go back.

[@HeronCoyote1234]

I’m already depressed and stressed. Clutter from others in this house is a big reason. Well, I finally snapped. I’m moving to a one bdrm apartment (with the cat…he’s stressed as well), from a four bedroom home (which my partner will rent from me, as he loves it). Since I have two months before move-in day, I’ve got my list of areas to clean/clear out, things to take, things to buy. This will be my 29th move in 66 yrs. The three most important steps are purge, purge, purge.

[@TheOrganizedPineapple]

@@HeronCoyote1234 Glad to hear you are taking action, that's fantastic! Good luck to you and u hope you get to feeling happier and better soon 🍍

[@HeronCoyote1234]

@@TheOrganizedPineapple thank you.

[@melisosh]

With all the chaos in the wider world right now, I’ve found myself wanting to purge myself of stuff more and more. It’s become very obvious to me that few of the things I’ve impulsively purchased over the years are providing me any real comfort right now. What is bringing me peace is time with loved ones, long walks outside, and good sleep. The stuff is just stuff.

[@myconfusedmerriment]

That’s such a healthy perspective. I’m kind of the opposite, my instinct is to hold onto things when the world is stressful or uncertain, because what if I won’t have the money/opportunity to buy this thing again? There’s definitely a tendency to hoard in times of crisis, whether individual or global. But you’re so right, the ways we actually build resilience and care for ourselves rarely involve physical stuff.

[@BlondeQtie]

And I use this time to stock up on things… Especially on durable food and hygiene like tampons.

[@joycebrewer4150]

My mom grew up during the Great Depression. She hoarded glass jars for years. Not even useful ones. Finally, when our small town was getting a recycle facility going, I washed masses of old ketchup bottles, boxed them up, loaded the car until there was only barely room for the driver, and took the lot to recycle. Same with jars coffee came in. Though those we reused some to home can tomatoes, I left 21 of those, three canner loads. The oldest, I think. Newer ones were too thin to withstand pressure canner.

[@maryhemphill9419]

Great video! I saw a sign once that said: “Look at all that clutter. It used to be money.” Most of us want to be wise with money but it is a challenge when it’s so easy to acquire things. I am challenging myself to leave things that I like/want because I really don’t need them. Even though they are a great buy…even at the thrift store!!!

[@freefoodchef7939]

Oh, gosh, I have spent SO much money at thrift stores! Sometimes I got things that I actually needed and at a very good price, but usually I picked up things I didn't need or only admired but didn't want enough to actually buy, but the cheap price short-circuited the rational part of my brain.

[@cezannex6820]

I have tried to leave things at the story by thinking to myself, what a wonderfull object, its very pretty, I appreciate what it looks like but I dont need it

[@pranakornhippo1729]

“Do I really want to be the keeper of this stuff?” That’s exactly what I needed to hear!

[@barbaraphillips8920]

You have spoken my truth for the past few years. I was the queen of organization tools, supplies, charts and list. Suddenly I realized all I was doing was moving stuff around. It was overwhelming and time consuming. Now I am 95% completed and loving my home once again. I was angry at all my stuff and angry with myself. Now, when I begin to clean a room I go through every drawer, cabinet and closet to make a quick swipe of what I need to declutter and straighten before I clean. By staying on top of things, I can clean my whole house in about one hour. Thank you so much for sharing this video and your journey.

[@HeronCoyote1234]

That is one of the biggest secrets: “stay on top of things”. Don’t let it build up, get out of hand. Every single day, I bring the mail right over to the trash bin, and get rid of unwanted stuff right then.

[@linseybanford4950]

I don’t want to be a keeper of things… I don’t want to be a keeper of things… Thank you for your inspiring words!

[@desiraeyager7585]

"Everything in our home is asking something of us." I like that.

[@lauras4472]

Yeah, but that ball of twine doesn’t

[@joelamybrewster8629]

@@lauras4472 If your house has nothing that clutters your space except one ball of twine, you’re fine. The hundreds of things taking over most Americans’ homes are the problem. Start with the “ball of twine,” whatever that is for you, and the other clutter will follow.

[@edennis8578]

​@@joelamybrewster8629Not just hundreds, but hundreds of thousands. The average American home contains about 300,000 things. How much of that stuff do we really use?

[@paxiong9139]

Thank u for the kitchen sink rule! After hearing u recommend this rule in multiple videos, I started it myself. My husband noticed what I was doing every night and I about fell over when he decided he would do the dishes one night last week. How amazing!!! Its so simple but creating this habit just makes sense!

[@TheOrganizedPineapple]

I know, some things are so simple yet we avoid and avoid until it gets out of control. When if we would just do it and get it over with, then it'd be done!

[@Signsalot]

This sounds like she found the Fly lady routines. Shine your sink!

[@ile002]

Yes… sounds like the Fly Lady principles

[@azchick7938]

I am 65 and your channel has meant more to me than you can imagine. The cluttering, the overwhelming feeling, etc., I had all of that, still do, but the tips about adopting small changes, little routines, too much STUFF, has been life changing. Thank you SO MUCH ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@FabianGuppenberger]

"Every item in our home asks something of us". Wow, that is very impactful! Thanks for your videos.. I´ve been binge-watching them since yesterday evening, while cleaning and organizing.

[@BlingBug3794]

We have 3 generations living in one house. Three generations of stuff! I have a home based craft business so theres a ton of stuff I have to have. My son works from home and a big gamer so there's more stuff. Then there's my 16 yr old grandson. Oh my stars the stuff! Plus 2 dogs and a bearded dragon. We are stuffed! I have learned so much from your videos. It is a slow process but we are making progress. Thank you for teaching this old dog new tricks.

[@jocelyne.5960]

That's awesome. Good for you! Thanks for the inspiration ☺️

[@anissabuabdallakh4512]

Less clutter is a true battle... first step: mindset shifting. Thanks for all the valuable advice. Very inspiring!

[@briannab5296]

Jeanne .. yes it's a lot of stuff but if it's being used then it isn't necessarily clutter.

[@briannab5296]

... and to be honest ... i'd MUCH rather live in or visit a home thats stuffed with vibrant LIFE where i can relax, than to be in a sterile pristine minimalist house that i'm afraid to sit down in and be relaxed or touch anything. It's all about balance i guess .. being in a filthy hoarders house or in a pristine nearly empty house BOTH make me feel very uncomfortable. I LOVE being in overstuffed cozy homes where everything is kept clean & tidy and the occupants are happy & loving & actually living a full life within their space.

[@BlingBug3794]

@@briannab5296 it is VERY obvious we live in our home! I always say our home is clean enough to be healthy and messy enough to be 😊 happy! It is important that everything has a place and every evening it gets put in its place. True, the laundry may pile up and from time to time dishes are left in the sink but it is never like that for long. I keep chore lists visible for everyone and its never a good idea to ignore it! If Mama ain't happy, no body's happy!

[@mamaneedsatimeout1325]

Guess what, Kallie?! Since you talked about cleaning your sink before bed I’ve done it every night. I may have missed one or two nights, but as a rule, I’ve clean out the sink, spray stainless steel cleaner into it to shine it up and shake a few drops of essential oils in the drains to give them a nice scent. And you know what? It feels freakin’ great to walk downstairs every morning and look at it! And because I clean the sink, I go ahead and throw any stray dishes or utensils in the dishwasher. And because the counters are cleaned off, I go ahead and wipe them down. You see - the dominoes are falling. It’s like magic or witchery! Or is this organization …… hmmmmm ….. 🤔 ~ Linda

[@dar4835]

My house is somewhat cluttered, but I hate it when there are dishes in the sink when the dishwasher has room for them. Am working on the rest of the house! Slow process.

[@trinitychambers8123]

You helped pull me out of one of the worse headspaces. I remember in one video specifically,you mentioned doing one thing every time i walk into a room. no matter how small the task, and it really helped. I now have an almost 1 year old daughter, and Im so thankful I found you when I did. She deserves a clutter free space to grow 💕

[@TheOrganizedPineapple]

This is SPOT on. I've been on my minimalism journey for 4 years now and have learned so much about myself, my family, and my stuff. Having less IS having more. Thank you. ❤️🍍

[@reneel2502]

So fortunate to discover all this at such an early age! I'm 55 and just getting going on this journey. You know what they say- better late than never!!

[@barbaravieira2239]

I am 70 years old. I have only been at "decluttering" for a few months and the process has been incredibly healing.

[@andreatersigni6101]

I am 66 years old -just starting this journey- and so wish I could have heard your words 40 years ago before I had children. I could have spent more time enjoying my boys as they grew up. Interesting though, they are grown and are very minimalistic. I'm sooo happy for them. Smart men.

[@HeronCoyote1234]

@@andreatersigni6101 I understand why your kids are the way they are. My dad was a packrat/hoarder. I took care of him the last thirteen years of his life, after my mom (bless her soul, don’t know how she put up with him) passed away. The clutter was so incredibly stressful for me, I refused to live like that.

[@MarciaNEvers]

,, thanks

[@annb1265]

I immensely liked: 1) everything you own is asking you to do something and 2) Dawn's idea of get rid of things so each room is never more than five minutes from clean (paraphrased). You're the best!

[@Natalia_85]

This is sooo true. IT'S PROGRESSIVE. I met "minimalism" on 2015 and then I kinda stalled. But the seed was already there and I started to catch up again. And the seed started to grow... Last year I kept watering the seed and I cleared out my closet; and I just went throught it again and was able to part with more (because I knew I didn't part with all of the things "I should have"). I also cleared the drawers last year and I knew I could do better and I continue to declutter. And I keep making progress. It's like an invisible muscle.

[@seastarma]

Yes! And it is interesting that we each may have different tolerances for what a manageable amount of stuff is... Dana K. White refers to it as a personal or familiarly "clutter threshold," being the amount of "cutter" or stuff in one's home that is manageable and that we are able to keep tidy, clean, and organized. Anything over that threshold is clutter and is detrimental...

[@jenniferhammons7700]

This video came at a perfect time for me and not because of the overall lesson of decluttering but for everytime you said the word journey. I was chastising myself this morning for my messy apartment. I have been cleaning and decluttering for a while now. This video reminded me to look back at how far I've come. The empty spots on my shoe shelf, my closet that contains only clothes that fit right now and is organized by outfits and so much more. Thank you so much for the reminder and the tips. I'll be rewatching this one for sure!

[@myconfusedmerriment]

Same, I still have a long way to go but even the small changes have made an impact. Just seeing fewer boxes or piles on the floor makes me so much happier to be in the space!

[@kimba8387]

I have an apartment too and I feel these small changes will set me up for success whenever I do have a home. I won’t have the desire to stuff the basement or garage with junk. I’m forming good habits now! Xo God bless

[@TheOrganizedPineapple]

It is definitely a great reminder to see where I used to be::: taking van loads each week and having a huge porch pickup each month. Now I can usually tidy my entire house in 30 minutes or less even when it's "super messy" and I'm still decluttering but it's usually only a small box a month vs how it used to be. Although lately done stuff has crept in but I'm doing a reset of my whole house and have stayed on top of it!

[@tinarich2864]

I think the answer may be, if we are able, to have a room to ourselves where we can control the environment. Also to learn to get rid of things. My weakness is books.

[@brittanynorma2568]

I’ve been practicing the kitchen sink rule this year and it’s Amazing. I’ve only not done it twice but waking up knowing the sink is clear makes me feel like I’m starting off ahead. It’s taught me to add small things piece by piece and it helps so much.

[@kathymaccrea8621]

You so inspire me to Declutter. I picked up Dana K White’s book, Decluttering at the Speed of Life. What great suggestions for how to take the emotion out of decluttering. I am so ready to find a place for everything and everything be in it’s place. I just about have my kitchen this way and I automatically put things where they belong after each use. Makes life so much simpler. I’m ready for my whole house to be this way!

[@TheOrganizedPineapple]

I was thinking about getting that book! I'm still not sure because I have been doing so well on my own that I wasn't sure I'd learn anything new.

[@korab.23]

I really loved that book! I started with Marie Kondo but it didn't quite work. Dana's book was so real and I loved it! It's what I go to when I need a reality check and to gain momentum when I've had setbacks.

[@HeronCoyote1234]

I love her take on washing dishes. Do them now, it takes 15 mins. Do them tomorrow, it will take an hour. Yup.

[@priscillapartyof9215]

I agree decluttering consistently makes it a habit .. I had a hard time getting rid of things but it has become easier now that I do it more often. Love the 10 min timer idea.

[@Bessie66]

14 months in and reaching the end of my decluttering journey. It’s been expensive. Replacing items of furniture that we want and donating the stuff we’ve had for years especially drawers full of clutter. It’s made a calm, relaxing home getting rid of unnecessary clutter and a valuable lesson - think twice before buying stuff - this is where we start saving again!

[@Jennifer_Lewis_Beach_Living]

I used to be a clutter bug because I always believed that clutter was a sign of genius. It was my cousin who taught me about the benefits of organization and being clutter-free. Not only did it reduce my stress levels because everything is neat, but I save a TON of time and money because I know where everything is because everything is organized and in it’s place, and I know what I have. In addition, my stress levels about “what to wear” is reduced because I only have the clothes that I like and make me feel good when I wear them.

[@bilindalaw-morley161]

I just want to tell everyone…being untidy and lax with cleaning is both a symptom and a result of depression. (I’ve proved it beyond a doubt for me at least in the last month or so.) This was exactly the vid I need right now, it was good to see the old vid of you decluttering, with all that stuff. And you’re being your usual DTE self! Thank you Kallie. I always like your vids, but today’s was ‘on point’. I can also attest decluttering is a seemingly endless process! There’s a lot of truth in “don’t put it down, put it away” I had a beautifully empty clean spare bedroom, but over six months or so, it’s become my dumping ground again!

[@tinastaniscia9057]

I loved this! As the mom of four grown children, I'm hyper aware of how they are choosing to live. My daughter is exceptionally good at living with less. Additionally, she's attached to very little, unless it's people, plants, or her dog. There's very little my kids want of what I might leave behind. This makes decluttering so much easier for me because I don't have to wonder who 'might' want _____ (insert item here). Thanks so much for the reinforcement.

[@HeronCoyote1234]

You are going to leave your kids (hopefully many many years from now) with good, happy memories of their mom, not anger at having to get rid of (in my dad’s case), 11-1/2 tons worth of crap, shredding, estate sale, etc etc etc. I was so angry, I had to go into therapy.

[@patriciacantwell8471]

You are so inspiring. I love your honesty about your journey...makes me really want to sit down and have a cup of coffee with you and share all the things I, too, have learned along the way. I thought when my children were through college and on their own, my clutter would be so much easier to maintain, but now I know it is a constant persistent challenge to keep on top of it all. Keep those videos going...they are great.

[@heidiwalker8807]

Years ago when my children were babies (now 21 & 18), I implemented the giveaway pile in our entry closet. I dedicated a spot in that closet so anytime I came across something in the house that was no longer wanted or needed I placed it in that spot. Once the spot was full I made a trip to my local thrift store and dropped it off for donation. This small habit has helped me keep clutter at bay for all these years. I can’t imagine what my house would look like without this simple system.

[@christywilliams8848]

I do the same. I use an old laundry basket with a trash bag. When the bag is full, off it goes.

[@noreallyihearyou837]

Me three!

[@kevil6362]

I always learn something new with you. I've been trying to own less stuff and now I realise I'm progressing because I have empty space in my closet, my kitchen is a bit tidier than before and I make an effort to clean up after myself now. Thank you always for the inspiration ❤

[@aliciamcdaniel4160]

Yesss, progress over perfection is so important to remember!

[@amylewis7563]

All these things are so true! It takes time and effort. I rarely regret something I have decluttered. It's a journey and I am so much happier. U never stop decluttering. We don't realize how much stuff we have that we really don't need. Thanks Kallie! 💝💝

[@bilindalaw-morley161]

I had a revelation when you were talking about keeping things that we *might* find a use or home for one day. I hope it’s not just me, that we’ve all had the dreadful realisation that heck yeah, that thing-um-me-bob I threw out last week I now need desperately. And that can put me right off any more decluttering. At the least, my “think about it” (quarantine?) box where I put the stuff I’m hesitating over multiplies to six boxes. What if I, instead of swearing, getting cranky etc thought about all the hundreds and hundreds of things, I *have* gotten rid of and have never needed or missed? Put it on a percentage basis, as:- well, this is only the second thing I’ve regretted. So I’ve got a grateful percentage of 99:90 instead of 💯 %; or a regret %of 0:1 for two things I’ve missed in three years. I can’t think of anything in my life where a success rate of 99:9% is depressing or anger inducing. If I baked 1000 cookies(hah!) and one was just a little too brown on one edge, I wouldn’t swear off baking forever! I have a horrible feeling my maths isn’t correct, but you get the point!

[@trimomSarah]

Excellent points!!!!!

[@helinaskali960]

This was just what I needed. Thank you!

[@pamelamolina5623]

Very insightful. Sometimes we can rent something instead of purchasing

[@victoriaomdahl9890]

I like how you flipped things around and gained a different perspective. Often I get stuck in the same loop. Half my home is filled with Someday stuff. No room for stuff I need or would use.

[@SpectrumOfChange]

Solid points.

[@laurenwilliams6314]

This is so true, I feel like I am constantly picking up and I’ve even been decluttering quite a bit but there is still just too much in my home. If I pick up everything there is a hiding spot for everything but one day later my family has found it all and taken it back out again. Just because I have room to hide it doesn’t mean there isn’t still too much! It weighs on me constantly. Thank you for the additional motivation! also “progress over perfection” is my word/phrase of the year for 2022 ❤️

[@countrymama2839]

I fid it hardest with my kids toys. They are abundantly blessed with a ton of people who love them and they don't all ask what they NEED for their birthday. My daughter is also starting to get into friends birthday parties and that comes with presents. It's hard to tell your 6 yr old you're donating a toy her friend gave her last year. My kids also have this sixth sense of when a toy goes away. It could be at the bottom of a bin for a year not played with or asked for and as soon as I take it out one of them asks for it.

[@jmsl910]

you've prob done this already, but just in case--i used to rotate the toys. i'd top shelf dishwash plastic toys & run plush ones through cold cycle in the washing machine/drier & then store away...

[@briannab5296]

@@countrymama2839 ... i get what you mean! 😁 I guess this could be filed under food clutter. My brother & i share an apt. We're both in our 70's and disabled. I try to always keep a pie of some kind on hand for both of us. Usually he'll eat one slice and then it sits in the fridge for days. Just a couple days ago there was some key lime pie that needed to be eaten before it spoiled. I thought there's no way i'm gonna let that lovely pie go to waste so i grabbed what was left of it and dug in. . . Then while still eating i get a text from him saying he wanted PIE for supper!!! ... it felt so creepy that that darn pie sat in MY fridge in MY room for a week, he NEVER asks for pie and then just as i'm happily devouring it and it's almost gone THEN he decides he wants pie! 🤣

[@renee6524]

I appreciate that you talk about the importance of decluttering but you make it a point to mention that you are not a minimalist. I think there is a happy medium. I notice a difference over the past 2 years or so in my home and in myself since starting this. I enjoy watching Minimal Mom, Ashlynne Eaton, and Jennifer Cook. While minimalism is exactly what I am working towards I get great tops for really thinking about what is valuable and deserves to take up space in your life. I dont want to be quite that extreme but in particular your videos resonate heavily with me when thinking about home and productivity. You have helped me so much with ideas like being in a constant state of decluttering, progress over perfection, one in one out. Your content never disappoints.

[@kimberly.alonzo]

I love when you said everything in your home is asking something of you. Lightbulb moment for me.

[@LottyDotty05]

Wow, that analogy of things in our home are asking for our attention hit me. That's overwhelming on top of the actual humans that are asking for attention. Definitely feel the need to declutter now to have less "voices" in my home.

[@valeriebraun6566]

Thank You for giving me permission to tell myself that I don’t have to be the keeper of the stuff! I didn’t realize that everything in my house was asking me to do something for it, but now having that mindfulness about every single thing inside my house asking and demanding of me attention when I am already worn down and worn thin makes it feel so much different and like I need to detach and purge myself from the added responsibility that is being asked and demanded by all that is unnecessary and overwhelming. It’s like something just clicked and a weight has been lifted off my shoulders and I can breathe for the first time just now. Thank You so much for that message I needed to hear! All because I am trying to get my bathroom closet cleaned out and put back together I heard the truth and found the answer I have been searching for to be set free from the clutter and the mess that has overtaken my life and my house

[@Oliviainzz]

So true! I can always remember when I only have one bedroom in university time, I never need to declutter because i only have one luggage of stuff. Now I live in 3 bedroom house with basement and every corner is filled with stuff... your videos are always inspirational 💕 thank you!

[@kirstyleigh2757]

This is me and I’m determined to start my journey to be organised and tidy! X

[@KylieHulet1]

Thank you for sharing your tips! I feel like my house is constantly cluttered and it gets overwhelming to the point that I don't even know where to start. Listening to your videos gives me the motivation to get up and start decluttering while I'm listening, and just do a little at a time to improve our environment at home.

[@colleens1878]

Thinking of all of my stuff as being needy is terrifying I am working on decluttering everything at the moment just went through a big physical change in my home and want the house to reflect the clearing of my mind A little bit everyday has been working well Thanks for the ideas and motivation

[@sarahthebeau8851]

Outstanding!!! Thank you! I am in the process of decluttering. It’s an on going project for sure. I keep a box or bag behind a door (so people can’t see into it) that I drop items in. When the bag is full it goes in my car to begin it’s journey to be loved by someone else. Works great!!

[@briannab5296]

I'm not rich so i buy with much thought and intention resulting in my home being filled with things i love. I'm perfectly capable of letting go if my beautiful things can go to their next journey of being loved, but it nearly kills me when they end up somewhere NOT loved & trashed. Sorta like having to 'donate' a family pet due to various reasons (a death or moving) to the Humane Society in hopes it will be adopted into it's next journey of being loved but also the very real possibility it will be euthanized instead. Letting go can be very heartwrenching at times.

[@loveejules]

Loved this. I also noticed the bathroom shot of you having those charcoal nose strips. So I have a funny story about those. I used one a few days ago and left it on for like an hour maybe more, thinking “the longer the better chance I can get all these blackheads off!” I now have a bruise on the tip of my nose and look like Rudolph 🤥🔴

[@gacsjourney507]

When you talked about everything in my home talking to me. Like the laundry asking to be put away. That is awesome that speaks to me. Thank you for sharing.

[@peajay3557]

Me too! 👍😊

[@Just_My2Cents]

I was having a hard time maintaining momentum on my decluttering journey because my husband and teen daughters just kept buying more stuff. I felt so demoralized. The more I shared about my personal interests the less they seemed to support me. (Crappy, I know.) So, I decided to keep going. This is my journey. I cannot control what others do or say. I limit what I purchase for them, choosing experiential gifts rather than tangible items. I am staying focused on what’s important to me. That said, I’ve never seen a youtuber on minimalism who has older teenagers or adult children thwarting their progress. It makes a challenging process more challenging.

[@lindilindi]

I'm in this boat, with my husband. He's aware that I'm decluttering, but he recently bought two things that replaced items that I decluttered. It is so demoralizing, I felt so defeated. He loves shopping and buying specific items for every specific need, while I like re-purposing and saving money. And he has a very high clutter threshold. 😭

[@Just_My2Cents]

@@lindilindi I understand! Let’s not quit before the miracle happens! :)))

[@sufferable]

I relate to this so much. My husband and children (5) just looked at me and carried on with their day! I found that the first step was to stop being responsible for their stuff. I told my husband and kids (over 14) that they had to put their clothes into the laundry basket - if it wasn't in there, I didn't wash it. Return clean clothes to their room, but don't put it away for them! When they kick off about some item that they want to wear stay extremely calm and pleasant. Offer to show them how the washing machine works. Offer to show them how to use an iron. I had a full-time job and a laundry routine - I was not their maid. Smile and go about your day.

[@neko2412neko]

I totally know how you feel, but for me, it is the other way around. I'm still a student and live at home to save money... and my mom has so so much stuff, and it feels like every other day there is another package arriving... I know this has some emotional background for her, because after my parents got divorced when we were little, we had barely any money and my mom started to collect old stuff from friends and neighbors to sell it on ebay to make some money... this was nearly 20 years ago, and she still buyes stuff that is on sale because she can resell it for $3 more... she doesn't even see that she's just spending money and horting stuff... (let's not talk about how much work goes into selling and shipping things, more than the $3 for sure... and she then complains that nobody is helping her, and she has so much work to do...) It is so frustrating... and I want to cry sometimes... but as you said, we can't change people, we need to adjust how we deal with it and that's not easy but the only way. I try to keep my room as good as possible, and I'm really carefull with buying new things, like "iT#s really cute, but do I really need it? Where would it belong in my room?) And if I need something new, I try to replace it one by one, e.g. I need a new reading lamp, I get rid of the old one at the same time.

[@Just_My2Cents]

@@neko2412neko Good for you! Please don't cry...you have created helpful habits and are well on your way to creating the lifestyle you desire! Well done!!

[@meritaholmes5085]

I totally can feel where you coming from because I am the same way I am getting ready to try to tidy up and declutter my home but it's so hard when you have a husband that don't give a crap!

[@meritaholmes5085]

And the problem is the trailer that I'm living in still needs to be fixed I can't get in my closet I can't put my children's pictures on the wall yet this is what aggravates me

[@gingermate7490]

Getting rid of stuff is so freeing. We are working on the Sweedish Death Cleaning, and make weekly trips to drop off carloads of stuff to Goodwill. Thank you for your great videos!

[@kcosh64]

Loved your video, thank you😍 I struggle with so much clutter almost bordering being a hoarder. I asked my therapist was I a hoarder and she said as long as you can throw stuff away I wasn't a hoarder, but I keep stuff because It was the only thing in my life that I could control (I always feel like life is uncontrollable). Now I'm feeling my life is out of control because of all the stuff I keep. It's hard to get rid of stuff for many reasons, like all the money I wasted or it has sentimental meaning or " I might need it someday" or more specifically I want to do something with it someday. So I continue my struggle everyday... Your videos are very inspiring and helpful to understand the mental confusion about why and how we collect so much stuff which will help letting go of all this stuff. Thank you❣

[@TheRustyTrike]

I read a book over a decade ago and can’t remember the name but something that stuck with me is that every item in your house is time. How much time do you want to spend on these things?

[@LatriceNoblesPinkMotivation]

Yes this is so true. I’ve been on this decluttering journey now for a few months and I am really enjoying it. I totally enjoy your channel thanks so much💕

[@emmahannagan6381]

After watching your videos I find that I feel not just inspired, but equipped to realistically apply these things to my own life, which is awesome. Thank you for all the great content you share!

[@valb6057]

I just started watching your videos recently. Always good tips. What really hit home for me was EVERY THING IN YOUR HOME IS ASKING SOMETHING OF YOU! Your videos are honest, encouraging and motivational. Thank you for helping us to get to a better place of LESS STUFF!

[@susan5661]

Great video! First, declutter on a regular basis. The more you do, the easier and easier it gets! Second, deep clean and develop daily habits for clean and tidy. And finally, third…. Organize what is left. And then enjoy and love your life 😊

[@bjb0808]

Very well said, as usual. I like your cleaning and decluttering videos and advice the most of what I've seen on KZbin. Intelligent, no moaning, no theatrics, just good advice from someone who's been there. Thank you!

[@diana-liveyourbestlife7038]

Clutter is basically “stage 1 hoarding” or “organized hoarding”. That’s the way I’ve lived all of my life. I’m now more conscious of what’s truly important in life and it certainly isn’t having more stuff. Although in this video you mention you’re not becoming a minimalist, you actually are by freeing yourself of the clutter to live your best life… Minimalism isn’t defined by a certain NUMBER of things you own. “The Minimalists” have said it like this…”Minimalism is a tool to rid yourself of life’s excess in favor of focusing on what’s important-so you can find happiness, fulfillment, and freedom.” “Joshua Becker” defines it this way…“Minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of anything that distracts us from it.” Life is way Too short, we should all be striving to live in this manner. At the end of our time here on earth we won’t be regretting not having more stuff, but we might be regretting how our life impacted those we’ve been in contacted with through the years and how our time here impacted the planet. Food for thought.

[@nancrist7022]

I am so grateful for you and your sharing. I am in my 70's. In my 20's & 30s I was known for order and cleanliness. We had so much less STUFF then. Since 2020 I really started to get lost in the weeds again. Because of stuff. Boxes coming in and not going out. Anyway, you're helping me to get back on track. Slowly, baby steps, but steady. Thanks and God Bless!

[@michelec5886]

This is a great video!!! It is so true! Too much stuff is harder to maintain! My home is far more functional, and I have doubled my space since I decluttered each room. Everything you mention in this video works and is the best approach!! 👍

[@ginagonzalez6547]

I've seen many videos and they all have been helpful, but this one takes the cake. You have made me see things in a different light. There are so many good tips in this video that I will begin to put them into practice beginning with the progress charts and the maintaining followed by the 5 minutes rule per room. For the 5 minutes rule per room will take awhile, but Def. I'll be working towards it. Most likely will be 2023 goal. Thank you again.

[@alanparsonsfan]

First off, I want to congratulate you on your intentional, ongoing 5 year journey of learning to gain and maintain control of your life, in terms of organizaing and planning. You have now reached the begining point of Marie Kondo's practice. Which is that, when you end up with the right amount of possessions, organizing them is not a challenge. Now this is NOT to say that having bins and a system to organize what is left isn't a great thing! But Kondo said herself that she used to think that some fabulous organizing gagdet would solve all her stuff problems. And, of course, it didn't. The bins, shelving systems, etc., are how you neatly store and easily find and manage.. what's LEFT after getting rid of the excess. In a word, you're right, having too much is hard to organize and know what you've got. For years, I have imagined that there is a constant blizzard of paper (and other things) coming in to my home. Which means, if I don't keep on top of if..... My favorite definition of clutter is, something that is not where it belongs. Kind of the end point of Kondo's process is that, once you have your right amount of stuff, that each posission must be assigned its home. So we know where to return it to after we have used it. My favorite comment someone made on using her method was that she was really wanted to buy something at Target. She had gone through the Kondo process. She said she realized, 'Oh, I'll have to find a home for this in my home'. As a result, she realized that she didn't want it as much as she originally thought she did... Every little bit helps!

[@britaccent4352]

As I sit here trying to dig deep for my 3rd move, in 3 countries, in 4 years, trying to be the mom that keeps our home where we are together and not tied to a place, I needed to hear that I don’t need to be the keeper of the things. I’m so stressed that my family will feel this as loss that I can’t let go of these things we’ve accumulated again. But I am hearing that I can provide an abundance mind set, which is actually empowering vs the energy sucking scramble to hold on to everything “just in case.” We’re together and we can always find a way to acquire anything else we may need. And letting go of stuff actually frees me to be more emotionally present and responsive for my family during a time that is tough, but also full of wonderful possibilities! I feel like this video spoke directly to me, so thank you from the bottom of my heart ♥️ You’ve made a huge difference today :)

[@nanzilla3000]

Hey there! I know I’m late here but I’ve just stumbled upon your videos and I swear it’s like listening to my own brain. I’ve been on this very same path of making my home environment a little better every day and a lot of the things you do are things I’ve also figured out and it is so validating. I have two little kids too and right now I’m super exhausted and watching your videos is giving me motivation to keep up the progress. Thank you so much! This video in particular is resonating with me today, I have been joking with my husband that I’m in “everything must go” mode, I’m methodically going through each space in each room and letting go of every single thing that we don’t use or need. It is truly liberating because reorganizing what is left makes our house look like maybe grownups also live here 😂 Great channel, thank you lovey!

[@KasiaKai1]

Thank you so much for sharing your journey! It is so encouraging, I thought I’m doomed forever so it’s good to hear someone has been on this journey for 5 years or so. Thank you! Happy New Year!

[@carriegordon8294]

I find the " one in one out" rule helps to maintain a smaller inventory. What also helps to govern the "stuff" is the size of space that's available for storage. I actually love not having a ton of storage space because I can't handle a lot of clutter, therefore if i can't store it, then i have to consider its value in my life. I love your vids Kallie! Have an awesome day!

[@TheOrganizedPineapple]

What really was beneficial to me was the realization that I could love something without owning it. It was like my lightbulb moment.

[@kristinotto102]

@@TheOrganizedPineapple yes me too! I can walk around a store and appreciate and love so many things and walk out with nothing but just happy I saw beautiful things!

[@julieligon8177]

Thank you, Kallie. I'm trying to put many of your ideas/concepts into my daily life. I've let things get totally out of control & it is time to work to a much more stress free life!

[@lp7931]

I love your approach to having things. On my own journey to get my space to be easily maintainable. Donation pick up tomorrow so it's declutter day!

[@itsacharminglife]

Clapping through this whole video 👏👏👏 I've had to move internationally twice cross country once and have had to let go of so much stuff that I thought I needed before my perspective changed. And then like you said, if I needed something later it was no big deal to get it again plus most of the time that thing would come into my life without me even trying right when I needed it. So that's what's helped me let go of things faster in the moment even though I'm not in a moving mentality. Thanks for the great tips 👏

[@Minnie11chula]

You are just brilliant. Always honest, to the point and well edited/created videos. Never a waste of time to watch your videos.

[@mindfuljourneys3010]

This a GREAT video. I work with people as an organizer and I will be sharing this video because of how well you have said what so many of these need to hear. THANK YOU!!

[@juliesharton6505]

Thank you for doing these videos. I’ve got my house about 90% under control, but there is always something more to declutter - videos like this help keep me motivated!

[@donnajaemoon]

I was so glad to see your robe sleeves turned into the garment. I do that with my jackets because, otherwise, they’d stick out too far, disturbing the boutique ambience of my walk-in. Love your channel, and the name. 😊

[@peajay3557]

What a great idea to pass onto all of us! I had never thought to do that! 👍😊

[@lindacurtis2358]

Allie, this video is just what I needed to continue my decluttering journey! Thank you!

[@WannaBoogieWithYou]

Great video, Kallie! The question "Do I want to be the keeper of the things?" really resonated with me and will make it easier to let go of some things I've been holding onto for far too long. Thanks for that little nugget of wisdom!

[@linbron2018]

I have been using a box any box in alll the closets for the family , as soon as we don’t want it we toss it in the box, once full it goes by the door ready to go. Omg, things are leaving all the time. I know it decluttering take over a year . It’s been 3 years and my house has lot a lot of weight. So much happier. Great video kallie

[@shogo8995]

I found myself with a closet full of “gift with purchase” cosmetics and skin care. I always shopped when I could get something free. It was good quality, and I thought “maybe I’ll use it”, (even though after trying it, I found I already had something I liked better) I also collected a vanity drawer filled with multiple eye liners, shadows, blushes, etc, even though I had one current favorite that I use every day. Finally I gritted my teeth and threw it all away. I no longer shop gift with purchase unless there is one free item that I actually use, in which case I give or toss the rest. I will try new cosmetics items, but if I don’t like them better than what I am using I return them(you can do this) or toss the old fave and keep the new. It’s such a treat to reach into my vanity drawer and find exactly what I want without having to search through a jumbled mess.

[@kimba8387]

I understand where you’re coming from. And also keep in mind makeup and creams do have an expiration date so that helps one feel less guilty about tossing it! Xo God bless!

[@BlondeQtie]

that’s stupid. i use all of the small things up and it saves me a lot of money.

[@shogo8995]

@@BlondeQtie That’s ok, if you don’t really care what you put on your face and body. . Not all products have ingredients that benefit every person’s skin. Some have strong fragrance that I find offensive and which also don’t benefit the skin. Some just make false promises and are a waste of time when there are actual products which do give results. Companies which make good cosmetic products don’t necessarily make good skin care products. It is hardly “stupid” to choose what is beneficial over what is free. BTW “Stupid” is rather offensive language when used in a civil conversation. You could obviously stand some enlightenment in other areas besides skin care. 🌸

[@BlondeQtie]

@@shogo8995 Idk where you shopped, but usually my gifts are really high in quality and have good ingredients. My dad is a dermatologist, so I do know a lot about skin and skin care.

[@shogo8995]

@@BlondeQtie Then I’m sure your dad would not disagree with anything I said.

[@katyruss1695]

Love the concept of our things always asking things of us - it’s so true - I think that really helps facilitating letting go! Love this video Kallie, thank you!!

[@shauna1624]

I believe the person she was referring to is Fumio Sasaki. He wrote an excellent book called 'Goodbye, things'. It talks a lot about our emotional attachment to things. It's a quick read and I highly recommend it!

[@karenlebeter4196]

Thanks for making me think and evaluate how I care for my space! Planning makes my days calmer.

[@jeandale7719]

Your 53 things to declutter video was the first of its type that I saw. I've never been overwhelmed with my stuff, but at 77, it was becoming more difficult And time consuming to deal with it. Watching you and several other organizing KZbin rs, I have made a great difference in my house. I'll never be a minimalist . Don't want to be. But I feel much better about my home and my life. Thank you for being there.

[@brendamiranda3732]

Thanks for all the awesome videos and ways of breaking it down for us Kellie!

[@rainforestblessed5031]

I never miss your videos. I've come to look at everything that crosses the door into our house as a potential "enemy." :) Truly ... I feel like I think "justify yourself" to the item and "where do YOU plan to live in this house?" Also, I go through our multiple statements as they arrive (treating it as an urgent priority) and AGAIN see if the items were actually needed (also, I NEVER hesitate to return). At this point 99% of items are being used and stored well, but if not, off to charity or recycling .... Straight into my car trunk then and there. When I'm out, if there's ANYTHING in the trunk (even 1 thing), it's taken to the appropriate place. My cortisol level goes down :)

[@snapluka326]

Thanks for saying this. You present this in a very relatable and achievable way.

[@lizzabbott]

Brava , Kallie ! So good that I’m back five months later to watch again !

[@ivymalise6591]

Your video made me realize that the reason I'm so overwhelmed and feel like I never have any time or energy, even though I have a relatively stress-free life, is because I have too much stuff that is constantly asking me to do something with it and I can't do it all. I can't play all the games, read all the books, wear all the clothes, etc. As I looked around at my clutter it was so easy to see what all of this stuff is asking me to do with it. Thanks for your great videos!

[@lisastaley4589]

Thank you.. 💞 I really needed to hear this, I will now be decluttering my stuff.

[@stacybradshaw4818]

The beginning of your journey, sounds exactly where I'm at now. Thank you for this,very helpful and gives me hope.

[@anitas5817]

For me, it’s not just clutter. Even too much good, useful stuff is just too much stuff, too much inventory to manage. Less is easier, and even less is even easier. Clutter threshold is real - once I cross it, I just can’t keep up.

[@kathyr5278]

Hallelujah hallelujah hallelujah ‼️Yeah ! I feel motivated and armed with the enthusiasm I need to get started on my journey to de clutter. I’m also glad for the success of your journey, well done. I want to thank you so much for the organized well presented vid with well explained useful information. So awesome 🙋🏼‍♀️☮️✝️💟 Yeah ‼️

[@jodienichols2002]

This is huge. Great video. Thanks lady!

[@libbyselvidge6514]

I just love all of your videos!! You are so easy to watch and listen to. You are gorgeous and have accomplished so much in organizing your life as a wife and mom, yet you are still humble and real with people. The suggestions that you give are actually achievable. I have started taking quite a bit of your advice and have already gotten better because of it! Thank you from me and the hubs haha. :)

[@krisronchetti9528]

Love “the keeper of things “ Really resonated with me! Thank you 🥰

[@colorsynthesis]

I can relate! I’ve been traveling this past year. I’ve needed to minimize what I can take w/me & have realized how little I can get by on. Returning home will be interesting, attempting to expand/add but also maintain this minimalist lifestyle. I do love it. I feel lighter.😊✨

[@christinemarinos2304]

Just wanted to wish you a very happy and blessed birthday Kallie. I enjoy your videos immensely and am currently trying to apply some of your ideas or recommendations to my life. Thanks for your hard work and dedication to help others with organizing, budgeting, while giving us a good chuckle with your awesome sense of humor. 🎂🎉🌹🎁💖

[@prilem7408]

I just discovered your channel and I wanna say thank you!!! My mess has been a problem since forever and you give me confidence that I can get better ❤️🙏

[@brianagallardo7944]

Love your hair and make up in this video, also love the advice.. and the help with decluttering..you started me on my decluttering journey💚