Why your house is driving you crazy (the hidden cause)

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you so much for watching, sharing and subscribing -- I'm so grateful for you!!!! Hope you have a really good day!!! - Dawn

[@lydiasalatino3765]

Hi Dawn! Subtitles are missing... for an european, when I am tired it s easier to read 😁. Thank you ❤

[@TheMinimalMom]

@@lydiasalatino3765 well that’s not ok! Thank you for letting me know, I’ll get it fixed!❤️

[@molly_frances]

Your videos are literally changing my life. I cannot thank you enough, Dawn!

[@rdb4996]

I'm so grateful for you, Dawn! 😊 I have learned a lot from you, thank you for sharing as much you do.

[@Everson1969]

Dawn, you are so inspiring!

[@jillstigs1637]

The money was gone when you bought it, not when you get rid of it.

[@TimberBlitzen]

Oh my goodness you just lifted a mental burden- I've been struggling to declutter but this changes my perspective!!

[@SARAMONTEIRO13]

Oh my god 😱 thank you so much for your comment x

[@naturenerdwi6381]

Spot on!!!! Yes!!

[@rosesprinklezz1752]

🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻 🎯🎯🎯 🎯

[@susannjohansson8952]

So true! Never ever thought of it like that! I struggle with a comfychair which I just bought and doesn't work in my home but feel guilty letting go because I spent the money. This perspective really helped! 🙏

[@lauraw128]

I try to flip the narrative in my head to “the money was spent on education” and it was. I learn loads from the items I declutter, and learning is priceless.

[@NanetteLoves2Budget]

I consider it tuition for my master program for life!

[@birkast9412]

Amazing point of view - thanks for sharing

[@ttephi3667]

That's a good outlook. I will try remember it too ☺

[@michelleprice5945]

Yes!!

[@galechicago325]

Excellent motto!

[@mwebb3014]

Incredible video Dawn!! I’m an empty nester whose husband developed early onset Parkinson’s Disease. Not at all the retired lifestyle we thought we would have. It is crucial to simplify our home to accommodate a scooter chair, wheelchair, special recliner, etc. He needs to be able to easily open cabinets and get the things he needs which translates into less stuff in the cabinets. Your encouraging words and personal example help me so much in downsizing our stuff. ❤️

[@amandazielinski3247]

That's so hard, I'm so sorry!

[@Rosa-kf6yy]

We just don't know what is in our future. It's easier to move forward without dragging so much stuff with us.

[@lizzabbott]

I’m so sorry your husband has to deal with Parkinson’s ! That’s gotta be so difficult . But good for you for making it easier by simplifying.

[@lisae9916]

❤

[@camm8832]

❤❤❤

[@lurlenejones456]

Thank you so much for validating childless people. So often people automatically assume we have more money, time, energy, bandwidth....

[@vaderladyl]

Exactly.

[@lindajohnson2149]

I missed her comments about that. What did she say that validated childless people. I have several friends in that category and always want to be intentional with that.

[@heatheramyprice]

@@lindajohnson2149 2:06 to 2:12 or so. :)

[@katieweiher]

I really appreciated that too.

[@pegbert12]

One of your best ever. "I don't have time to read all these books, I don't have time to sew all this material" etc. I'm also adding this new mantra of being gracious to myself: I didn't know. I just didn't know. It's so helpful to have these Dawnisms bouncing around in my head.

[@ashitamohideen698]

Kķ1

[@wilhelmina8843]

6:40 The thing about Dawn is that when she says, “I’m so sorry for you” , it really feels like she means it. She’s so genuine and sweet.

[@bethvankirk]

I like that too. Sometimes we never hear it. Hearing it from Dawn, who truly knows the struggle & is such a genuine person, is very comforting.

[@angelasnodgrass6621]

I agree.

[@krcl8812]

For me there's a vast difference in time and energy between having kids under 5, and school aged kids. I have a significant gap between kids and so I restarted the "littles" stage. I think people forget how busy it is to keep eyes on a toddler constantly while he or she is awake. I'm only saying this because I can't imagine if I had postpartum depression with my first and people told me "you never have more time". Yes, declutter. Yes, streamline. But parenting comes in phases and having babies, toddlers, and preschoolers are more physically demanding. I know this is just a stage again, so I'm getting all the snuggles I can. To the parents of littles, this time goes by quick. Prioritize now, but know it won't always be like this and you will, in fact, sleep again.

[@kbetz1978]

Thank you for saying this! My kids are 3&4 and I feel I barely have a minute without being called to help them in some way. Glad to hear it may get better (time wise)

[@katherinep1010]

I completely agree! My kids are 7 and 5 and the difference from just 2 years ago is HUGE. I DO have more time, and more energy to devote to other things. When we go to the park I can sit and talk with people instead of following a toddler 100% of the time so she doesn't run into the street. At home I can allow them to play in a different room, or even on a different floor from where I am and get things done or do something fun for myself sometimes.

[@sarahvincent3645]

Agree. Having littles under 5 is completely different. I think it's not that we have more time when they get old enough to be independent but our priorities just change to adapt to our family's needs and our own changing needs. Family time is more important than stuff. I used to craft. Now I have more important things to do with 4 kids.

[@elisec1309]

Thank you for this! With two children under 5 and a burnout, it sounds very nice to hear that. Although Dawn's underlying message to stop living towards a moment in the future where you supposedly have more time is also something that I learned during my burn out. Something will always come up. You need to simplify your life, not until you can just manage it, but until you can manage it AND have bandwidth to deal with things that come up!

[@Firstfalconfree]

Whew, I'm glad to read this! 🤣 We have an 8 year old, a 1.5 year old, and I'm 2nd trimester pregnant with #3. We homeschool, and I farm full-time, so I know it isn't going to get less "busy" anytime soon, but it is good to hear the reminder that these physically challenging days are not forever.

[@nicolaporch395]

I decluttered a few years ago using the Mari Kondo method. Worked a treat. What was the ONLY thing that I let go and then regretted later? A wooden spoon! I could really do with having two, instead of one. A 1 euro wooden spoon! Honestly, let go of the stuff. You might regret 1% of your decisions, but, in the meantime, you will live in an environment that is so much more peaceful.

[@carrieperrigo2319]

I find it interesting that we hold onto all the things we really don't use and deep down know we probably won't use just because someday we might use them! We are so afraid to make a mistake in our decluttering! Never mind the fact that we made tons of poor choices in buying all the stuff!

[@SF-ru3lp]

Well done Nicola! I cleared slot of stuff before a house move using Marie Kondo's method but there were still certain belongings that needed further decluttering. The "not low-hanging fruit" as mu husband kindly calls them needed some more helps... I leaned on Dana K White and Dawn's wisdom and finally we are fairly well sorted . It took a year or two more as thd new house needed jobs to be done to it so obd is "double-jobbing". I am alot wiser and mire vlesr thinking now, thank God. G Ire

[@ArrowHillCottage]

My mom used to say "make time for the things you need" - I always thought it was funny, because time doesn't grow on trees (same as money!).... but what she meant was to use the time we are given for the things we truly cherish/value. :)

[@rdb4996]

Sounds like me she was aware of 'non-negotiables': whatever you need to keep functioning and be a happy person

[@evolvingartist7]

@@rdb4996 Amen! Life is too short to live a perfectly organized-scheduled everything life. So what if we have 5 vases of flowers instead of 1...more to enjoy! So what if we want 10,000 pics of our first trip across country...we can have memories to enjoy on during a rainy day. So what if we have 7 pairs of shoes...a pair a day I'd say! So what if we have 10 rolls of bday paper...at least we can choose floral over stripes if we want. Live this life to the fullest....extra clutter if desired! It can make for a rather cozy home...hey and think about the extra insulation! Hey, and skip the schedule once in a while to break the monotony of a perfectly planned life!🤣

[@rdb4996]

@@evolvingartist7 as long as you enjoy it! Vases are not on my enjoyment list, I rather use the space for hobby stuff. Nobody touches my many pairs of shoes, I happily manage that inventory 🤭

[@itoshiibaka8267]

100% this. Be intentional about what uses up your time. 🥰

[@neonkitty6366]

Dear Artist, I felt this way for years and also I didn’t want to get rid of things, always shopping sales, buying too much until now my house is busting at the seams!! Everywhere I look in my house there is stuff!! I just watched this video and my time has come. It has got to go!!! Thank you Dawn sooooo much!!!! Val

[@andmelinda]

I wanted to cry when you were listing all the things we don't have time for 😭. It's all so overwhelming. Truly appreciate your guidance through all of these decisions and freedom to let things go. Love you!

[@kryxena]

I got a little misty, too. The cookbooks! I have so many, and my fantasy me uses all of them. And scrapbook paper I haven't used in at least 10 years. It really is overwhelming with how many things we wish we could do but just can't find time for.

[@rdb4996]

Your fantasy self really is tough to deal with. I only recently learnt the extent of influence this non-existing me has on the existing me 🧐

[@bernadettehawes]

Oh yes, this! The fantasy me. Who has so many interests, and therefore I would use this or that - and yet I have so much stuff it paralyses me to the extent that I am sometimes unable to function properly and do normal everyday things!

[@neonkitty6366]

Dear Bernadette, I just listened to this video and you have put into words what I could not. Paralyzed with all the stuff and not able to function normally!!! This is me! Glad to not be alone but we can get rid of this stuff!!! It is truly keeping us from living the life we want to live. Bless you dear. And Dawn, bless you for all you have and are teaching us. So many others teach how to organize it but you give us permission to let it all go!!! Praise the Lord it has got to go!!! Thank you!! Always, Val

[@SF-ru3lp]

Every blessing to you, Melinda. G Ire

[@marilynndesilva7620]

At 78 with both my husband and me retired I can confirm that there will NEVER be enough time! Even after selling our home and downsizing, I still have too many unfinished sewing and knitting projects, too many garden projects planned, art supplies that I can't possibly use up even if I live to be 100! Oh, and then there are the photo album and video compilations that have lain fallow for years.... and the genealogical information stuffed into folders and file envelopes.

[@kathysheeran6589]

Thanks for confirming. And what should we do with old pics and Momentos? I guess save the favorites only

[@LoisDiCicco]

Thanks for sharing this. I also believe I’ll have more time later. Later never seems to come.

[@Donnalish]

Omg! This couldn't have come at a better time for me. I'm feeling so overwhelmed with 'stuff' apart from thinking we'll have more time, what makes me really sad is I have kept things from my childhood, a Sindy house and all the furniture dolls and clothes that I used to love playing with, for my daughter when I had her, which I did! She's 9 and has played with that Sindy house once in 9 years when a friend of hers came over and she absolutely loved it. She says it's dirty which it isn't, but my dad used to smoke and it's like 40 years old! So it's yellowed but it's been cleaned many times (sorry this is long!) But I'm not having a good day today! Door I keep it? Is it an Antique/vintage/worth any money, how do I get rid of it, I'm finding it so hard lately being very emotionally attached to things because I bought them for my kids, but they were never interested in things! It's makes me really sad that they just prefer their phones and don't actually play with or use the things they have. I am constantly, actually just moving things from one room to another but never really getting rid of enough, because even to list these things on market place is time consuming, then the hassles of people not showing up to collect when they say will. And by the time I do get rid of some things and clear some clutter, it's birthday time or Christmas and welcome back more un -needed stuff!! 😩 I'm sorry this is long but I don't have anyone that understands this and the emotions that go with it. I feel like all the stuff that needs to go is good quality stuff from good shops in UK from when I lived there and I feel like I am replacing good quality stuff with low quality stuff as it's not fashionable anymore or not my style anymore. So I clear some stuff out then I see on Instagram this beautiful home, with this and that or a hack to make this decor item and I love making things so I buy the thing to make it and clutter up again! 😢 A lot of the stuff I have is for entertaining but we don't really do that anymore, so I feel sad about that too and I don't want to let these things go because that's what I brought them for! Then there's the kids artwork, cards they've made me, pictures they've drawn, photo frames with photos of the kids in, empty photo frames, I've never got around to filling and a million photos dumped in a box with empty albums on a shelf, not to mention the thousands of photos on my phone and on hard drives, that we ever look at at, but which is our kids lives and childhood that they may never get to look at! It's funny that this video pops up right now as I was thinking of messaging you, Dawn, as i know you totally understand this. I feel like I am being be a bad example to my kids and I'm even thinking about telling my daughter, who's 9, the truth about Santa so I don't have an influx of unwanted stuff just for the sake of it, I don't want to break her heart but I can't do this anymore, it's taking up nearly every waking moment in one way or another. I have my kitchen sorted and working at least! I know you guys understand so thank you for any helpful advice ❤️

[@carrieperrigo2319]

@@Donnalish If you read your response you will find your answer. Just let go of the stuff that isn't currently being used. It's depressing you. It is overwhelming you. Take a picture of the item that is sentimental. You can look at it later and remember playing with it or using it. While it seems hard to let things go, you will thank yourself later. You can't make your kids like certain things. Think back to your childhood. Did you always like your parents choices? Also, sometimes we adults think we want something, then we get it and don't like it as much as we thought we would. Our kids are the same, and they don't have as many years of experience as we do. Give them grace to let go of stuff and give yourself grace as well. Best wishes!

[@marthaneudorf1899]

@@Donnalish I too have spent money on some nice things I no longer use. I too don't want to list on market place. Year after year the stuff sat in my closet because I spent so much money on these things. Finally I just decided to bless someone else with the stuff and donated it to the thrift store. I have never missed anything and now no longer feel guilty about keeping all the stuff. It's so freeing.

[@CassieW-97]

I listen to you all day while I clean and work… thank you.

[@metalheads228]

I've been in an agitated (bad) mood. I can't seem to get anything accomplished. So I started watching KZbin videos for inspiration. All they did was get on my nerves or make me feel like a failure or give me unattainable goals. I thought...I wonder if Dawn has any new videos. YEP!! Thank you. You are genuine and caring and THANK YOU! I feel so much better! 😀

[@Donnalish]

I agree, these beautiful homes, wives and mother's that look all glam, making cute and delicious things in their perfectly clean and decorated kitchens. It does make one feel inadequate even though we know it's a highlight reel. It's makes me feel a total failure on every level.

[@trinityriddell3296]

Yay! Thank you Dawn for working so hard to encourage us, inspire us and invite us to work for the life we want.

[@shay2218]

Well said! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@LilaVert-FR]

I've been a minimalist for a lot of years now. But I'm always impressed that you give us new and useful perspectives each time.

[@seaspeaktome9167]

Agreed Lila!

[@jeannieplett878]

Same!

[@maggieschuttler1726]

Thank you for all of the encouragement. You mentioned the subscriber count at the end, I know you don’t view it as a big deal but I hope you know you deserve all of this. You’re an amazing person continuing to put great energy and content out into the world! Thank you!!

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you Maggie, I appreciate that!!! 🥰

[@louieshortall9605]

"In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun- you find the fun and snap, the job's a game!" As Mary Poppins said, find the fun. Thank you Dawn, for showing us how to find the "Fun", peeling the onion then reaping the benefits. My husband didn't know what got into me after all these years. It was finding your videos. One day we'll head cross country so he can give you a hug, if Tom wouldn't mind, lol!

[@TheJorgSacul]

I concur- there is a moment that happens where a hobby becomes a burden, whether it's just moving on to other interests, or realizing you're collecting stuff because a friend is doing it, and it has become "keeping up with the Joneses". I'm slowly coming around to the idea of giving stuff away rather than trying to sell it to assuage the guilt of having spent money on something. Giving to someone who appreciates it "sparks joy"™ for me more than making back a few bucks.

[@amyw5647]

This comment really struck a chord with me. Past hobbies is where most if my clutter and guilt comes from. Time to let them go!

[@anaschulz8084]

As a child, I was taught that being wasteful was a sin. Hard to let go of that mentality but you are so right!

[@MyFocusVaries]

Someone gave me the perspective that it's wasteful to have the items unused in my storage space. By donating them and letting someone else put them to good use, that's making sure the items don't go to waste!

[@kerrikeller3603]

In 1936 my grandma had a string of Christmas lights with eight light bulbs. They put them in the window so everyone could see in their small town of Calumet, OK. They were so proud of them. There were maybe 50 people in the county at that time. My Grandma lives with us now and is 99 years old and still recalls the joy of those very special Christmas lights. Small things mean a lot and we can learn from them as we have the "COSTCO" version of life now. I enjoy your work, Kerri

[@jacquichimes]

Love your videos - I decluttered massively 5-6 years ago and try to maintain that. My mum passed earlier this year aged 90 and one of the saddest things was clearing out all the ‘stuff’ she thought she was going to use ‘one day’.

[@alf287]

My grandmother has been gone for 16 years and she kept everything but never had anything. She saved everything for "good". She would tell us that (a new in package picture frame) she was saving g it for "good". Sadly "good" never came for her. She was a few months short of 92. She didn't have alot of stuff but she always kept all of her really nice old dress shoes in original boxes. They are still in her house today. She would keep food in the freezer forever. She wasn't a hoarder and her home was clean. She would save the Styrofoam that meat comes on for us to do crafts with. Of course she washed it. The best days. I sure miss her.

[@SueRosalie]

that "one day" just never comes. Better to face that and get rid of stuff before we get too old.

[@lindalee8952]

Hey Dawn- I love this video. I am 67 and mother of 7 grown children. I actually do feel I have more time than I used to, and I love this stage of life. BUT I find that I don’t necessarily want to go back to the hobbies I used to do before children- sewing clothes, cross-stitching, refinishing furniture. I have other things I want to do now. So there is that reason also for getting rid of stuff. Don’t assume, as I did, that once I had more time I’d go back to my previous pastimes.

[@elizabethpaul989]

I’m 66 and I am retired I spend a lot of time watching KZbin. I thought I would cook more. I dont.

[@bonniestevens6932]

I am 66 and i am working on all the sewing and craft projects that I aquired when I was working. I don't have the extra money to buy new clothes or projects. when I was working there was no time(no bandwidth)....then there's fall and all the vegetables given, that has to be processed !!!!!!

[@juliatepe5760]

Yes, me too. But every time I know the mission truck is coming to church I make yself downsize on quilting supplis. Especially those that were gifted or inherited more than a few years ago. That makes the remaining much more manageable. Thanks Dawn and congratulations!

[@siany123]

Thanks Dawn ❤️ Long time subscriber here, and my house is SO MUCH BETTER thanks to you. I also have a busy house with a young family who I homeschool, and it took me half an hour to clean yesterday! Half an hour! 🎉 My kids are happier, my husband's happier, and I'm no longer drowning in feelings of guilt and failure. THANK YOU.

[@gingerstrahan7464]

❤️

[@jasminm8784]

Oh that sounds so motivating. I hope I will reach this level too. I am a long time subscriber too but I still struggle.

[@siany123]

@@jasminm8784 keep working through the layers, soon enough you will turn a corner, and everything will just seem easier. You can do it!! ❤️

[@jasminm8784]

@@siany123 aww thank you so much for your encouragement! I think when Dawn said 'only keeping what you really use at the moment' was a good spark.

[@NovasYouTubeName]

This is great for me too thanks for the comment. Love the supportive group on here❤

[@juliejackman2649]

We just did a major clean out of our house. 33 years worth of cleanoutcand and it was about the hardest thing we've ever done. Thoroughly exhausted, but it looks amazing in here. It's just where I like it best 90 - 95% clean. I'm just in awe! That's all I can say. Thank you God!!💕

[@neonkitty6366]

Great job Julie!!!! This is where I want to be!!! My husband would think he’s in the wrong house. (Really He’d be the happiest guy on earth!!!)

[@a.p.5429]

Congrats! You deserve an award. I'm in the middle of it. It IS exhausting at my age but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel and it isn't a train. God bless.

[@mompofelski4191]

Suzy Homemaker ME would USE all the cleaning supplies and bake all the goodies and try all the recipes and sew all the fabric (because she never sleeps and never gets tired and never gets interrupted and doesn't have to deal with anything but THOSE projects). Creative ME would USE all the art supplies and craft supplies and practice the piano for hours daily for the same reasons. Prepper ME would organize all the supplies and focus solely on being prepared for another great depression. Literate ME would read all the books and write a novel... ugh. I need a small army of droid clones. I cannot focus on the whole elephant - I cannot even focus on a part - that isn't how my brain works. I do utilize your 5 minute doses and float from room to room - improving each room with 5 minutes of intense adrenaline... then it ends. Thank you for not giving up on us/me. My nightstand is organized and cleared off. I have eliminated excess dishes/glasses/mixing bowls. Front room is tidy except for my husband's corner of reading materials. I make progress by tiny baby steps.

[@meh5069]

This is so me. Lately I have had to shift my perspective… I would but WILL I?

[@Donnalish]

This is me too! I just love doing so many things, especially the recipes, I have 10 new recipe books over the past year and I haven't even opened most of the books yet. I have things to sew and I want to macrame some things and upcycle some canvases and spend time with my kids and go out with my hubby and there's just NO time EVER!! 😩😩

[@neonkitty6366]

So let’s part with this stuff and live our lives, Donna. We are human beings not human “doings”!! We cannot and were not created to do it all!!!!🥰🥰

[@Donnalish]

@@neonkitty6366 you are so right and, I have been getting rid of the things, but crazily enough, it's keeping me soo busy doing that! I keep saying just one more week of getting rid and I can live my life on top of Christmas coming, getting ready for a trip, feeding everyone and trying to look after myself at the gym, which in itself leaves me exhausted! But I am nearly there.....! 🥰 And emotionally it was easier this time, I do find it hard to get rid of stuff because of the memories around these things 😭

[@neonkitty6366]

Amen. Way to go dear!!! You are doing it!!! Don’t you wish we could just work on it til it’s done without interruption I mean? I try to keep Dawn’s videos in front of me so I stay encouraged. I had a close encounter with a mouse (I commented about this in a new comment to this video) which has put a fire “under my tail” to get things off the floor, etc!!! This is my current quick goal-getting things off the floor and decluttered. Many blessings to you as you continue on this journey!!!🥰✝️

[@mamasaurusrex5915]

This video is everything. So many emotions…despair at our limited time, freedom to let go, kindness and grace to ourselves as we let go. You are such a blessing to others!

[@charlenedrake8862]

Thank you for reminding us that at ANY SEASON we still do not have much more time… maybe 25 min instead of 17 lol… but TRUST ME - that house full of children are going to Grow up and they EXPECT Grandma to have ALL THIS TIME… and I have to remind my oldest daughter my schedule is very full but she thinks because her youngest brother graduating from high school there is all this free time. But that could not be farther from the truth! We STIL WORK outside the home. We have to. Thankfully I substitute at the schools and have flexibility BUT WE STILL HAVE TO MAINTAIN OUR HOUSES AND CONTROL PAPER CLUTTER AND THINGS THAT COME INTO OUR HOME! The biggest challenges that young parents have no idea that is going to happen is you will NOT have the energy at 50 that you have at 28 or 30 and there are so many more HEALTH CHALLENGES OR LIKE MY HUSBAND AND I are having to take care of our parents houses and help with their Drs appointments. I am not complaining… thankful I still have my mom with us and my husbands dad BUT THERE IS STILL SO MUCH MORE WORK TODAY! Thank you Dawn for reminding us … we can’t keep waiting on “someday” ….because Yes the stuff just collects dust or gets ruined in waiting in the “someday”….love your helpful videos!

[@loriz.5771]

I just turned 60 and tjis is really beginning to sink in. Time does fly ! I look at donating as being charitable now more than being wasteful. Being mad at myself won't accomplish anything. I have several chronic conditions, and am more realistic about how much I can still do at this point. Decluttering and managing stuff takes precious energy. Thank you for the reminder and encouragement !🌹

[@terryannsweeney4428]

I have been watching your videos for a few months now… I can’t tell you how helpful and inspiring you’ve been. I spent another day decluttering and loading up my car…it’s a lot of work getting rid of things!! One of my favorite things to do is organize, but I realized all I do is organize stuff I don’t even use! I can’t wait to spend my days doing things I enjoy and not organizing my junk! Thank you for sharing so many great tips and ideas and inspiration! 😊

[@caro2983]

I could never pinpoint it before meeting you, Dawn. I thought that I had to archive my family’s life. Now I understand that I can curate the memories and moments very carefully. I do not have to be the librarian any longer. Thank you, Dawn!

[@lorenaduran195]

Your words resonated with me today, I’ve spent so much time trying to archive my life, hanging onto memories like my future depended on it. 😅 Simplifying my possessions is challenging but so liberating, I no longer feel the need to keep the stuff to prove that something memorable happened. ‘ I don’t have to be the librarian any longer’ thank you for those words!!!

[@caro2983]

@@lorenaduran195 thank you for your comment. I love how Dawn helps me see a situation differently. I get so many “Aha” moments while listening to her. Cheers to us as our liberation gives us more time to be present with our families and friends.🌺

[@virgierutledge3004]

Our sons are wonderful but have not interest in our ancestry. I am done.

[@willowe7134]

Omg I'm SO trying to be the librarian!?!

[@marlaedington6471]

@@virgierutledge3004 I feel the same with my kids! Even if I keep all the stuff I have now, when I am old and dying, my kids won’t keep it, they aren’t sentimental!

[@CampbellHolli]

As a parent, I have just enough extra time to watch a Minimal Mom video! Just enough extra time to get a little inspiration from Dawn!

[@kathleengarness1660]

I am a professional artist, and work in several media. Each set of media takes up space. But you inspired me today to pull things out, declutter some paper that turned out not to be archival, resort things into better categories and containers, and now it just feels so much more manageable. Artists have a bit of a challenge because of supplies needed for production, and, in my case, teaching also, but simplifying other areas of my life has allowed me more time to make and teach art. And lift folks' spirits thereby, I've been told. :)

[@itoshiibaka8267]

Yes! I had too many different mediums, so I said, "If I have time to create, what mediums will I choose first?" And that narrowed it down a lot! I still kept more than intended, but i'm happy with the quantity and the space it occupies now. 😊

[@joybrown9600]

I live in a retirement community in Florida. We woke up this morning with the burden of having to get all of our outdoor stuff secured before hurricane Ian comes. For my husband and me, it was SO easy! What an object lesson for us! About half of our neighbors have "more inventory than they can manage." When you talked about you and Tom straightening the kitchen ... that's how we felt!

[@wilsonpatx]

Praying for you in Florida!

[@ceralith942]

Hope you stay safe and the storm passes without incident!

[@e.victoria5151]

First of all, did Dawn’s subscriber number jump by 2k in the last few days?! Second, Dawn, do you know you have more subscribers than Joshua Becker?! NOT that it’s a thing; Joshua is literal minimalist goals 💜 Third, I followed Minimal Mom about two years ago and have seen most of the videos on the channel. However, THIS one hit home more than most. There’s not enough time, especially of we keep keeping! That’s why I continue watching these types of videos, because someone will use the correct combination of words to get the message through! I’ve been peeling the onion for six years but STILL get hung up on being wasteful and keep things I should let go of and learn from the good intentions. Thank you Dawn!

[@ninadukette3340]

Ditto.

[@denesewallace2000]

So well said!! Dawn so deserves every new subscriber and wow more than Joshua Becker!! What a great observation! I know just from your words your an awesome person! 👍👏

[@marlaedington6471]

Me too!

[@torrie956]

So timely. “I didn’t know” that my disabled 24 year old son would continue to need more and more care instead of gain more and more independence. “I didn’t know” that my 82 year old mom would need me to take her to more and more doctor appointments (4 hours round trip plus the appointment!) . “I didn’t know” that when I retired I was going to discover that my back and hips were going to have an abnormally fast degenerative issue that prevents me from doing the things I love. So…… you have kicked me into high gear to rid myself of the stuff I haven’t had time to enjoy and now I see that I won’t get to enjoy in the future! I need to simplify NOW while I CAN…..let someone else use things while they are useful! And realistically keep what I do have time and ability to use. The “ I didn’t know” phrase is going to really help me go through my sewing/craft areas! Great video. Gonna watch this one a few times!

[@sherriepiechowski4556]

I love this video and the fact that your mom gave some of her stamping and crafting leftovers to a local nursing home. That was so kind on her part! When my mom was in assisted living,they had a craft night every week and it would have been something so fun for them to make cards (The elderly love sending and receiving them!)

[@robynhansen996]

Wow, I could relate to everything you said. After being married for 55 years, we have accumulated way too much stuff. I recently donated a ton of items to our senior center but I haven't made a dent in what's here. You have inspired me to keep going ahead with decluttering. Thank you.

[@andreamiller6200]

I am really impressed at the montage - I can sense how long it had to take to assemble it and it tells such a true story. Thank you, Dawn!

[@ilanapeters4239]

I've been watching your videos (along with Dana and Cas) for the past year - I started a PhD in addition to working full-time, so last year when I was on vacation I began to declutter. And at first I was like "I'll probably find a few t-shirts my identical twin will use, maybe I'll be able to let go of a few books I still haven't read." Well 50% of clothes, books, baking ware, even some blankets (as a former Canadian, blankets are a tough one!) is gone. My sister has three little girls so all jewelry that neither of us like eventually gets given to them when they deserve a reward (my sister holds onto it until then), and my sister was gracious enough to let me bring all the clothes over to her and things that didn't fit her or suit her style, she brought to a charity shop for someone else to enjoy. Books I tried to give to the friend would most want whichever author it was, and although the clothes was downsized in about a week, books took closer to 6 months before I was really able to get to a point where I said "Ok, these are the ones I will read before giving away or want to keep forever" (I currently live in a country where English isn't the main language so books - even library books - in English can be difficult to find). I am so grateful to you all for bringing this first year of my PhD some semblance of normality. And best of all, the places that got decluttered (under the bed, the double-stacked bookshelves turning to one stack deep, and a shelf in the closet) are now my new cat's favourite places to enjoy, so he says "thank you" too haha

[@krisbaker9427]

Your content has helped me understand how to control my inventory so that it works better for my household. The part about being kind to yourself for having acquired objects that you no longer want is huge. Once a person gets these concepts, the wasteful acquisition of new objects is much easier to control.

[@plumsystar]

I will admit. I need to hear you again and again the same subjects you go over in your videos. Please keep it coming. Thank you!

[@NameLikeNobodyElse]

Yes. I keep listening & piling up the info hoping it will bust out one day as momentum.😄

[@marlaedington6471]

@@NameLikeNobodyElse me too!

[@atroy1983]

Dawn, you are seriously one of my best friends (lol ask my husband!) This was the video I needed to hear today. I have been on the simple living journey since my college days. I am 29 now with 3 little littles and with each new video you put out I peel back another “layer” of the stuff we have. I love to do ALL the things (sew, bake, read, garden, diy everything!!) and this concept of “how much time will it take” is so powerful! Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. You change lives, and I will be forever grateful for what you have taught.

[@jessicabrown6943]

Such very good advice!!! Also, even if you do have more time years from now… things don’t last forever. Paint dries up, thread and material dry rot, things just don’t last forever. So if someday you do have time to craft. You’ll need new materials anyway. I was saving a bunch of paint because I genuinely do love to paint and use the paint. But the fact is that a lot of it dried up before I used it. Only keep what you’re using. And be realistic about what you can actually use. If you need more later get it then. One thing that was overwhelming to me when I decluttered my craft supplies was that I had an entire storage building FULL of it. Mostly things people had given me. I thought “I can’t get rid of all this! I could NEVER afford to buy it all again someday.” But the truth is I don’t have to buy it all again, because I don’t NEED it all. I just need enough to do one project. Then when it’s done enough for one more. I would never have enough spare time in my whole life to do enough crafts to use up a whole storage building of supplies. I wouldn’t even WANT to spend that much time on crafts. I want to spend it with my kids, and my husband, and my friends.

[@lizzabbott]

Hello, Lovely Dawn ! You’re FORTY now ! Forty looks GREAT on you ! Ooooh I’m so glad you had a wonderful celebration at Diana’s & then on Sunday for breakfast at your Home ! Wow your Mom’s cards are beauuutiful ! She is so talented and puts so much love into them. How great is it that she donated her extra supplies to a center where they can get joy out of it, too ! Your upcoming subscription milestone is so exciting . Been with you for years & I love watching your channel grow. You should be proud. I’m proud of you! Liz

[@cowsonzambonis6]

I’ve gone through my house multiple times, simplifying more each time. It’s been a huge blessing lately, as I have had some unexpected health challenges; I have so much less to stress about and my family finds it much easier to keep things clean.

[@donnatrobaugh1676]

Please do a video: "My husband is NOT on board with decluttering!" I've been trying to get him in the basement for a year!! I know we could reduce our "storage" by half.

[@dawnsabella130]

I feel ya! My husband isn't against decluttering per say but he has zero initiative. Soooo...sometimes I just bring a box up from the basement and right after dinner I go through it with him. I'm thinking I might start sorting it first (keep/donate/trash) and then just let him have a final say.

[@Hillside-Hive]

She has a few... she said she doesn't mess with his stuff though- leads by example and he's come around s•l•o•w•l•y 😁

[@tracey1782]

OMG! I would love a video like you described as well! I’m working on a lot of other areas of the house for now, but when the time comes we absolutely have to do the basement and garage!

[@florenceumpherville8560]

I have that husband, he retired three years ahead of me and so be brought his stuff into my space. When I retired, I decided to declutter things I wouldn’t need anymore. I did the house and was brutal, he wouldn’t declutter his. I gave him two years to be rid of stuff. At two years I started him stuff, he took it to his space, mission accomplished! I got rid of 500cookbooks, four sewing machines, craft supplies and ten bins of material! Do I miss it? Not one bit, I kept what I am now using, but it blessed a lot of people, especially all the canners and canning supplies! I’m still bee keeping though

[@gwenvann7279]

Yes please! My husband is the type of person that never wants to get rid of anything. It is overwhelming to me

[@sarabrook4696]

As I'm watching your video, an ad for Michael's 70% yarn sale comes on. My thoughts went to "maybe I could make it over there this week..." then I remembered what you had JUST said... I have hundreds of hours of yarn already in my closet. I won't get rid of it but it is the hobby I do the most so I plan to use it. Thanks for the reminders. We all need them, that's why we keep watching!

[@JustBrenda55]

Oh, Dawn! I think this has been the most eye opening chat from you EVER! Don’t get me wrong. I have learned so much from you. The lightbulb 💡 just glowed in my brain after watching and listening to this video. Thank you. I have two large bags of books that I got at a library sale a year or more ago. They are going and I am about to go dive in and purge more stuff. Time! Time to enjoy whatever time is left is the goal. Time spent on shuffling unneeded stuff is not fun. Time spent enjoying life is fun. Thank you so very much. And Happy belated birthday wishes to you and Diana! 🎉😊❤

[@bettemillarlong7385]

Well said!!

[@JustBrenda55]

@@bettemillarlong7385 thank you.

[@kateyare4708]

I have more time for sewing now because I MADE more time for sewing. Following you and Diana, I developed a weekly plan for housekeeping, shopping and cooking; but that plan did not include sewing. It did (and does) include one day devoted to cooking along the lines of "Cook Once Eat All Week." It finally dawned on me that if I could have a day devoted to cooking, I also could have a day devoted to sewing. I give the sewing day the same priority I give the cooking day, and rearranged other tasks on the schedule to accommodate it. I've been working on a sewing project for a few weeks now; and tomorrow is sewing day, when I expect to finish my current project. I feel no anxiety or frustration about an unfinished project because I know exactly when I will get to it. I also enjoy savoring my sewing day without guilt because I know exactly when I will get to all my other household tasks. Thanks for all the wonderful ideas, ladies, and happy 40th birthday!

[@babytexan3038]

I'm so grateful for you, Dawn! This is the best video you've ever made!! It's sad to realize our lifetime on earth is finite, but better to come to peace with that while we still have time to be intentional about it!

[@itoshiibaka8267]

Yes! Intentionality!

[@lafrapele]

Thanks! I must admit that I do have enough time. Organization, simplicity, modesty and gratitude is all I need.

[@hanado1335]

By far this is my favorite minimalist channel. You are so encouraging and I look forward to watching you every week. I love the way you share yourself with us, I feel like I know you. You’re like the friend everyone wants. You’re so positive and motivating, and of course that huge smile is like sunshine to my heart every time. Thank you Dawn you are beautiful and look great for 40 (not that 40 is old)😁 God bless you❤️

[@marthavanderpool6829]

“Dr. Dawn” - You understand the underlying psychology of mini-hoarding/clutter so well. And hearing you articulate the phenomenon and better yet - the solutions - is truly therapy. Thank you so much for your invaluable help. God bless you and yours.

[@bethstratton3391]

Dawn, such a fabulous video. I totally agree with you about how we all think we will have more time in the mythical future to do ‘all the things’. This is the notion we tell ourselves in the beginning, that becomes the fantasy life ideal (similar to The Fantasy Self idea), which eventually becomes the lie we keep repeating. The one that goes “We’ll have time to do that next week, soon, in the near future, when the next season comes, when the kids are grown, when I retire.” So, I agree with you, that the way to combat this myth is to reeducate ourselves to understand as adults and to then teach children from an early age that: The time we think we’ll have will almost always never materialise in way we need it to. When I was a Kid this lesson used to be taught in an oblique way i.e. There are only so many hours in the day, or Time for work leaves little time to play etc. My way of looking at Time is simply this: If we are looking at the commercialism of life we need to understand that Time is a commodity, but it is not for sale, instead we sell ourselves just seeking to gain more of it and wasting it on things and stuff that doesn’t matter. Time depreciates our lives and decays our physical selves and possession’s. We come into the world with nothing and leave with nothing (in the physical sense) so why do we seek to covet so much in the lifetime in between? When you think of it like that it seems so ridiculous doesn’t it?!

[@rontidball3670]

Thanks for permission to declutter stuff we thought we would have time to do. I love rocks and collect them on all of our vacations to the Great Lakes around Michigan. A year ago I bought a rock polisher to preserve my “treasures”. I didn’t realize all of the “extra” supplies I would be needing to complete a few rocks at a time, not to mention the time frame and having to pour in and empty out different grits after each (2 or more weeks) cycle. After finding all of this out, I called the store where I purchased it and explained that I will never have the time or patience to do this. They said they would refund my money, minus the extended warranty I had purchased. It was worth the $20.00 I lost on the warranty to get the refund and get the polisher out of my life! I will just add the natural rocks to my rock gardens and enjoy them with a weight lifted off me! Thank You!

[@lindamcdermott9980]

This video inspired me so much. I have way too much stuff, even after years on the minimalist journey. Why?…. You just answered that question. I failed to factor in the changing seasons of life and interests. I have acquired so much inventory for the things that I do, I don’t think I will ever use all of it. Using the example of your mother’s hobby, I am going to pull out my excess stuff and donate it. Thank you for this eye opener, it makes so much sense. ❤

[@oleanderwyvern]

We're in the process of de-cluttering our home after a major remodel (because once you have to move all of the stuff in your house out just to sit for several months, you quickly realize you can't even remember half of what you own, let alone need all of it). People get weird when you're a crafter who's de-cluttering. I don't get sentimentally attached to my paintings, and have in the past just repainted over them because canvas is bulky, I'm cheap, and I got what I wanted out of the previous painting. Every time I even consider either re-using or donating a canvas I /immediately/ get asked 'you aren't keeping that?!' in a shocked voice. My skill level isn't that great (not bad, but not great) and the things I paint are just for enjoyment, not to fit with my decor. I got what I wanted out of it when I painted it, it's not doing anything for anyone by just sitting around. Whenever I get asked, I offer to let them have it, if they're so upset by the idea. Oddly, no one's taken me up on this :P

[@neonkitty6366]

Hi Briana! In my decluttering journey I have learned not to offer things to people or even discuss it with them, to avoid hearing things like, “You really don’t want this? Or “why do you keep so much extra?”, etc.. It has been so much easier to just donate things when I need to. Sometimes I pray over the stuff, asking the Lord to be sure someone who really needs and would be blessed by it gets it. Also, I bet that you are more talented than you give yourself credit for. Keep creating your beautiful things! Blessings, Val

[@danyelleanderson9106]

Oh I needed this so much! I've been decluttering for years and I'm still at my witts end with the amount of stuff. I keep telling myself that when the house is cleaned then I'll spend more quality time with my kids. When I realized that, I realized my priorities are way out of balance. I'm decluttering relentlessly this week with you in my ears. Thank you!!!

[@lisam5744]

I've just recently found your channel and already hearing you talk has given me words for the feelings I've been having (but couldn't describe) about the decluttering of our home. Thank you.

[@adelinam7839]

Thank you, Dawn. THIS message is EXACTLY what I needed to hear in this season of my life.

[@lindamcgregor6585]

well said

[@heidiholzknecht8526]

I like that I can bring to order (just about) any room in our house in 5 minutes or less. I love that when I look around (just about) everything gets used regularly or is in the process of being used or exists because it brings joy or beauty. It may not make more time but it does certainly take up less mental space / energy / capacity. 🙌

[@dellapitre4520]

Oh my goodness you just articulated exactly the journey I have been on the last little while! We sold our house and moved from a small 3 plus bedroom house to a one bedroom condo. I have purged, donated and thrown out a lot but have so much more to go. And as you mentioned, I will never have the time to do all that I thought I would do with reading all the books or doing all the things I thought I would. So busy purging and simplifying to enjoy more time with family and friends moving forward. 😊❤️ Thank you so much Dawn, for enlightening me and helping me through out my journey! Only wish I had you when my kids were little. Think the world of you and your family! 🥰🫂

[@cocochannle7337]

Dawn, you are the most amazing person and very part of my decluttering journey. Never stop doing what you doing please. I will be lost!

[@janicelovett5457]

After my parents passed away and we had to clean out everything it was overwhelming. I said to myself that I wanted it to be easier for our kids. When we retired we moved to a smaller house, got rid of one car and got rid of ALOT of stuff before moving. Now I have less to manage . Hurrah!! Recently I have gone through every closet and room and we’re still getting rid of things. It’s wonderful to be more organized and less cluttered. Thanks for your wonderful advice. God Bless.

[@anicholeRL9861]

I love the amount of grace you encourage us with. It is so helpful and needed so that we can clean up our homes and make life be how we truly want it to be!

[@tml3982]

When I retired I found out that even though I have a great deal more time to do what I want I really have changed what I want to do. I now spend my "extra" time doing things that I had always made time for even when I was very busy - like cooking good meals, visiting with friends and family, reading, etc.

[@CPAJESS1980]

Thank you for the encouragement this morning! I had a bunch of stuff on my list this week to continue simplifying my home and got a little discouraged when I realized there was no way I was going to get it all done this week. I will get there eventually and it is worth it. I just helped my step-mom clean out and move after my father's death. It's struck me that all the things my Dad left behind that even if he hadn't been sick he would have never been able to use it all and it became a burden for us that didn't make a lot of sense. I'm hoping to turn that ship around and leave a better situation for my son (while also living a happier and more simple life myself!).

[@marcimay2975]

I really needed to hear this tonight! I’ve spent the last week organizing and reorganizing my pantry. Ordering pretty baskets several times to hold and organize all my stuff. I came to the conclusion that I’m an organized hoarder. 😂 I have such a hard time parting with things I spend good money on because I might use it some day. It always helps to listen to your motivating videos. Thank you!

[@krystal364]

I have been watching your videos for months and made my husband watch some too. We just finished a 9 day “vacation” where we purged our home, our yard, and got some projects done. After 3 truckloads of our stuff going to donations or dump. I feel like our house is finally not driving us crazy! And I feel like we can manage our stuff so much better! Thank you for sharing and being such and inspiration!

[@neonkitty6366]

Wow!! Wonderful job!!

[@louiseatkinson3044]

I am really struggling with depression at the moment so looking at all things in my life. You are spot on with the crafting I skip from one project to the next. I am going to sort through my craft room and plan 12 projects 1 per month, donate what I don’t need Thank you for making my life more clear 🥰

[@lizbrewer3040]

Dawn , I love your videos and your family! My husband passed away 2 years ago and I have most of his stuff, my stuff, some of my adult (25 & 31) kids' stuff that needs to be gone through and decluttered, kept, donated or sold. I'm working on the decluttering with the help of you and Cass from Clutterbug. I just love that you have realized and studied about how too much stuff affects our brains. Stuff is overwhelming me. I need to take your advice and pick a small space and set a timer and go at it!! Thank you again for being a caring person!!

[@mchandra66]

Showing and reminding us that we don’t have all this time to use and enjoy all our stuff was a new and refreshing angle. You are very gifted Dawn fir inspiring and making sense of the world for us. ❤

[@ashleyyeske8660]

I love watching the flashbacks in your videos. It reminds me of how long I have been following and how far we have come in this journey.

[@agb6330]

Just watching this morning. Very timely as I’ve procrastinated with cleaning out the “craft/sewing” storage area of the basement. It’s not a finished basement but I have plans, once it’s cleared out, to create a sewing crafting area so that I WILL enjoy doing projects. Thank you so much for your encouragement and wisdom!

[@kfetter9046]

This was a great video! I really have been enjoying paring down at home, and even my husband seems to be getting on board with it. It feels so much better to have space, and I either gift it to someone in our local Buy Nothing group, or donate it. It is really gratifying to give something I don't need to someone who does. I do find myself looking around the house on a daily basis to see what else I can clear out. There are lots of minimalist channels, but you are my go to! Thank you for sharing your positive energy. You practically glow! 🥰

[@chereederry7939]

Hallelujah!!! I love the way you looked at your mom's stamping supplies! I am looking at my own hobbies and your words are helping me be so much more realistic! It is freeing!

[@rhondakanayurak4936]

Happy Birthday Dawn! You have inspired me to begin to declutter my home inventory! I'm doing 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes here and there. It's encouraging to see things begin to change and the weight being lifted! Thanks again and I hope you had a wonderful birthday celebration! We love you too!

[@happyhutchinsons]

How is it possible that every new video is my new favorite? So thankful for you and your family!!

[@debbywilson546]

Just exactly what I needed to hear right now, Dawn. (and the little 'I love you' at the end of every video you make is so special to me, thank you!) Bless you and your family.

[@jeannespillers1132]

I’ve listened to Dawn for only 1 year. I can say I agree with just about every word. I just can’t let my sweet husband listen, otherwise he would just in 100% and I couldn’t declutter on my own time. I’m working on me just as much as my home. Which are totally linked. Wish I had found her a long time ago. I’ve joined in on the declutter work shop. My husband was so very proud of the empowerment it gave me. Instead of being owned by my stuff!

[@neahughes1579]

Something I think about a lot is how many people have worked at each step of production with the items I buy. I love to sew, so I have a lot of fabric. Before I buy fabric, I try to ask if I will honor all the work that went into making it. Someone planted cotton seeds. Farmers tended to the plants. Someone harvested the cotton and spun it into thread. The thread was woven or knit into fabric. Someone had to dye the fabric or print on it. And then a driver had to drive it to my local store or to deliver it to my house. I hate waste because I know how much work goes into each part of production- so I try to not buy it if I won’t actually use it all!

[@lynnb1226]

I haven’t even finished this video, but wanted to say, You are the Best! I need to keep hearing this. I have been trying to do all the things, decluttering,homeschooling, gardening, scratch cooking, pottery, and it all stopped in august when I injured myself. I think I already knew I was trying to do too much, but when I couldn’t do anything and my family had to step up, I’ve really been thinking about it. Not sure where I can cut back, but I’m even more encouraged to decluttering and simply more. Just have to heal first. Thanks so much! You are a great inspiration. And you feel like a friend.

[@LynnsLaunderette]

Dawn- please let your mom know that her cards are Amazing!! From Lynn, a fellow stamper. ❤

[@bertholdstefanie6175]

When Dawn showed her mom’s cards, they looked so professional! I‘m in awe! That is what I would like to get to!

[@LynnsLaunderette]

@@bertholdstefanie6175 Just watch lots and lots of stampers and crafters here on KZbin for tricks and tips.. it will all come together, trust me. Remember, it's a process---make it fun for you! 😁

[@YoYo_Ma]

I've spent years decluttering and paring down. I now (mostly) have only stuff I use or love. Then...bam! Life happened and I moved in with my sweetheart 💕. He has SO MUCH STUFF. Ugh. Rinse and repeat...he's not fully on board yet but he'll get there. I'm helping by setting an example of always putting stuff away...giving a home for everything...and by finding objects he cherishes but were buried under clutter.

[@rosywilson3076]

I feel a bit the same. Married Himself, sold my house, moved into his… Like you, I had my house how I wanted it, pared down, mostly minimal. Now we have SO MUCH STUFF and I feel overwhelmed all over again. I’ll just have to bite the bullet, declutter more of my stuff and hope he follows my example. Best of luck to you!

[@amyperez9004]

Dawn - your content is INCREDIBLE! I never miss a video! Would love for you to do a video or series on family memory keeping, pairing down photos and videos, digital minimalism in today’s world of over saturated phone photos and videos, and actually USING photos and videos. Would be nice to pair up with Catherine Saunders from All The Best! Thanks!

[@diannedick4722]

Thank you some much for those video!! I use to do a lot of artwork, crafting and quilting and I feel SO guilty that I am not using all my wonderful supplies. Fatigue is a huge problem for me and trying to be creative is a burden right now. Thank you for giving me an different perspective!!

[@juliekonigskind6434]

Thank you so much for this encouraging message! It’s so true! Ever since I started our families journey of owning less and focusing more on the things that matter, I realise how little of the stuff I thought was essential, even is important to me now. It feels soooo good to let go and creating space in our lives and I cannot wait to see how the Lord is going to fill that space with his plans and purposes. Thank you Dawn , you’re such an inspiration to me. Oh and happy belated birthday! May you be abundantly blessed and truly feel HIS provision in ever single aspect of your life. 🌈

[@taraschmidl5491]

Wrote the comment before I watched it and now I want to say: THANK YOU You speak from and to my heart! I will give myself more grace for the past - I’ll be saying, „ I didn’t know.“ a lot more often because I can also see, being 42, where I want to put my energy has changed and evolved over the years. At the core it hasn’t- the values and what matters most to me - but HOW I implement these values has changed.

[@Hillside-Hive]

Good stuff here!!! Honestly, loading it up and hauling off is a much quicker pain versus the daily guilt of staring at the junk... Free the junk!!!

[@lindamcgregor6585]

Love "Free the Junk"

[@elizabethbednarcik3311]

I have been minimizing for 10 years now and feel our home and lives are where we need to be regarding minimalism. Fridays are the day when I am home alone while my kids and spouse are at work and school. I usually spend this time cleaning and minimizing more, then groceries and errands. I now ask myself what I can do to stop the mindset and actions of doing these tasks on my day off and instead be able to use this time for activities I really love, like doing art or going on a hike. It's a struggle I really want to break.

[@bethgee334]

Thank you soooo much, Dawn for pointing out the “time factor” in respect of all of the stuff we keep - that was a huge light bulb moment for me! I had never previously associated my stuff with how much time it needed. I can’t wait to head for my ‘donate’ boxes to get rid of lots more items 😃

[@marshaclark4901]

“I really had good intentions” is really helpful. I look at you and Josh Becker when I get stuck. Thanks

[@lululeelee19]

What an excellent vision cast of your entire philosophy! Such a succinct and winsome argument to simplify our lives by simplifying our homes. Thanks for all you do, Dawn! You’ve blessed our family by persuading me that this is what was dragging us down. We’ve transformed our home AND our family life as a result through the inspiration that came from you and your content - I thank God for you, sister! 💕

[@poolfield2]

Twice in the last couple of weeks I have invited people on the spur of the moment for lunch or afternoon tea. I knew that to get the house ready all I had to do was a quick vacuum and clean the downstairs loo so had plenty of time to make simple food and welcome guests. Thank you x

[@pollyp9328]

That is my dream!

[@NLY1WAY4U]

Oh Dawn...the yarn! It is sitting in my living room in boxes gotten recently from son's storage. I would never use it all in 10 years for donations! Crochet friends coming over to get to make more donation blankets. I get excited knowing it is getting used soon. Yes!!!!

[@Hillside-Hive]

I overbought for a project and now it stares at me...lol

[@annaallen641]

I volunteer at an op shop and can say how much donated wool is appreciated. Loved seeing a small person in yesterday buying a ball of wool with their $2 pocket money, glad someone had the grace to donate it.

[@connieburns4495]

This was really good!!! 🎉I’ve been decluttering daily for over a year, thanks to finding you!! Just sold a dresser for $100 today and having fun; my house is easy to keep up with. My kids are grown and I have developed health issues that limit my strength and ability. If I hadn’t decluttered, I would be so overwhelmed. I love the “peeling back the onion” theory. I don’t stock up and buy the way I used to! Thanks Dawn ❤️

[@christyb3942]

I hope you and your sister had a beautiful birthday! 🎂🎁🎈🌷💕You inspire me so much! My husband and I have lived in our house for almost 30 years. It’s wild how much stuff we have accumulated. I have been watching you for a while and I can tell you that you totally helped me to get unstuck and just start. I have done quite a bit so far and still have a ways to go but I wanted to tell you that you are such a blessing! I look forward to new videos and watch your old ones! and it always gives me a boost to keep going. Thank you thank you! Looking forward to this next phase of our life being even more peaceful! Much love and blessings 🙏🏻💕💕💕

[@staylor8935]

Past facts > hypothetical thoughts. What a Brilliant straight to the point reminder! Thanks!! ❤😊

[@donnav]

I love all your content and this video is amazing! You have packed so much truth in this one. I am helping my parents downsize and move from their house into an apartment and the amount of stuff (in ALL the categories you mention) is truly overwhelming. As an example, my mom loves to craft and how you explain about good intentions and the rationale behind why we keep so much is wonderful. I will be sharing this video with her. It may help her make peace with some of the stuff she now has to part with.

[@gegeschannel8836]

I am retired with such a list of things I was going to do when retired. I had to prioritize my list to lose I love,gardening,as I have, thank God, my parents very near and need assistance. I love that too. But thanks to you , I began to simply years ago and continue the mission today. Thanks for all you do! We love you and Happy Birthday 🎉