NRM Decluttering Tips For Procrastinators (Like Me)

We're back with a few tips for the procrastinators of the world when it comes to decluttering. And that, of course, would include me. I am the world's worst at procrastination. In fact, I usually try to schedule my procrastination, but I keep putting it off. OK, that's a dad joke. My apologies.
Thank you for being with me on this journey!
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I started this channel in order to document life as it gets lived. It's about where I live, how I live, where I travel, why I travel, and so much more. Eclectic is a good word for the content to be found here. I hope you will come along for the ride!

[@jerryduty901]

When I declutter an area I just love that feeling of accomplishment and how nice it looks. Please tell me that I am not the only person that goes back and looks at it a dozen times because it looks and feels so good.

[@shodson314]

LOL I do this too so maybe we’re the only two 😜

[@TraceyBergum]

I am so that person too. I just did that all last weekend ...had a garage sale and then I kept going back and smiling at all the space thats open now after selling the "stuff" : )

[@pucheumaureen1487]

I totally understand you...I recently painted my bedroom floor WHITE and also the corridor outside the bedroom . The walls and woodwork, doors etc are also WHITE . I put down 2 oriental rugs (mainly red coloured ones) and placed a beautiful gold, gilted mirror on the wall. Everyone appears to love it, including myself. When I turn the light on the place glows...and yes, like you both, I often turn the light on often to admire the space and a rewarded with such pleasure. Originally this ares had dark hardwood floors and a stack of boxes cluttering the space. Now it's bright, elegant and minimalistic. If I could paint ALL the floors in my apartment white, I would. Though in some areas it would simply not be practical. I am just going back to have another look ... Maureen, Paris, France.

[@gailoreilly1516]

I have been doing that with a food storage room that I finally cleaned out and reorganized. I had completely forgotten about some of the things I had already bought. It does feel good.

[@TigerChic]

Nope, you’re not the only one, I’m guilty, lol. I just love it and it makes me happy to see my accomplishment 😀

[@barbaramiller5625]

I’m 85 and live alone. Most of my neighbors have housekeepers and gardeners who come in every two weeks to clean and tend the yard or patio. So far I’m able to handle everything myself. My two sons who live far away give me “honey do money” for jobs I can’t handle myself. Every time I clean or tend my patio I think Wow I just made $60, that’s what it cost my friends to have someone come. I live on Soc Security, Money is a great motivator to me.

[@cjb34]

God bless you Barbara!

[@pamengland7863]

That’s awesome. Good for you. Keeping active is the key to longevity!

[@melanielarson349]

You are an inspiration to me, Barbara! 😊

[@Jim-bh7gs]

I hired a cleaner/declutter-er once. I was so frustrated that she wanted to throw just about everything out. So, I fired her. Now, I SIMETIMES wish the stuff was gone as it becomes both a burden and a trip and fall hazard.

[@jenniepost7837]

I love the idea of the honey do money from your kids!

[@michellepaull7523]

Your relaxed & slow-paced approach to decluttering is helpful & reassuring. You are right, it doesn't have to be done fast it just has to be done. Thanks for your encouraging videos Tim 🤠👍

[@billrobbins5874]

Just has to be done. 🤢

[@kzZnAT0r]

❤❤

[@margaretdavidson935]

I moved in with my Mom 25 years ago after my Dad passed. It was easier than trying to maintain two properties. Moving is always a inspiration to declutter. Now my cousin has listed her house that she has lived in for 52 years. Hooboy! Talk about a lot of stuff but she got it done with the help of her sister and her son. Good thing he has a truck and a large trailer. I don't have any of those kinds of help so I go one room at a time and when I get lazy or discouraged, I watch an episode of Hoarders. Persistence and patience.

[@theresasuttle711]

Hoarders episode is a great idea. I would so love a ‘crew’ to take it all out and set it up for my decision!

[@margaretdavidson935]

@@theresasuttle711 If only that were possible. I guess we will have to go with the do it yourself method.

[@cinderellafan362436]

I also watch Hoarders episodes to motivate myself to stop procrastinating and just do it because I do NOT want to end up with my children saying -Well, This should have been on a HOARDERS EPISODE! 😁

[@shodson314]

Hoarders is a great motivator. But I avoid some of the nastier ones! 🤮🤮

[@JaniceIsLearning]

About 5 minutes or less of watching Hoarders is enough to motivate me to get rid of something.

[@colleenisaac6647]

I think, we as Americans, have been urged to buy more “stuff” to be happy and productive. I know I’ve fallen into that trap myself. I am currently decluttering and trying to be more of a minimalist. My husband hates it because he’s the one that holds into the most “stuff.” It’s difficult to get rid of/donate stuff that you’ve paid good money for but if you’re not using it or plan to use it, let it go! I always think that when we’re both gone, my sons will just get a dumpster and throw everything in it so I figure I’ll help them out before I’m gone! 🤣

[@npranger317]

I'm in the same boat. My wife holds on to things. I think your comment about our kids having to come in after were gone, was spot on. The stuff will end up in a dumpster! So, I finally decided, after years of trying to get my wife on board, that all I have control over is me. I've started decluttering, just my stuff in hopes the wife will see that it is good.

[@ros8986]

Maybe find good places to donate - organizations that help people who need clothes, household goods (there are organizations who help people who are moving into permanent housing).

[@mpgibson6342]

Peter Walsh has some great tips in his books regarding how to handle the emotional side of decluttering. Sometimes you need to let go of what you think the "value" of something is. Let go of "I paid good money for that" - instead measure the value based on how it is serving you NOW and whether it still fits with your current season of life.

[@kimgregory2781]

I find that when I look at some of my bakeware and cookware, it’s that it has taken me so long to get these things I needed 13:56 when I was cooking for a family, that it’s hard to give them up. Even though I might not use them but once or twice a year, it sure is a nice feeling to have them after doing without. I know people say borrow an item when you need it, but I know I won’t and then I’ll regret getting rid of it.

[@denaclements3936]

yes, you are so right. my husband holds on to most things, and says negative things to me when I want to get rid of kitchen stuff, so I can't. That is very frustrating for me. I can only get rid of my stuff.

[@auntfunnel]

What's worse is being a procrastinating perfectionist, which means if you don't have time to do something RIGHT, it doesn't get done at all.

[@kzZnAT0r]

Me! 🙄

[@simply.clutterfree]

I have ADHD so this is a tough one for me. I find setting a 15-30 minute timer works because I tell myself I can stop after 15 minutes. Once I get rolling though I usually get lost in the task and don't want to stop 😂

[@ros8986]

setting a timer works for almost everyone.

[@simply.clutterfree]

​@@ros8986yep! It does. I give it as a tip to many people. And when I need to declutter with my husband I tell him we'll only do 30 minutes. He agrees and we inevitably work longer 😂

[@cinderellafan362436]

I am the same…I procrastinate getting started but when I actually do get started I get lost in the moment and will work for hours nonstop, or until I get distracted by something else. 😊 I have had to train myself to not get distracted when I go from one space to another putting things away.

[@simply.clutterfree]

@@cinderellafan362436 Yes! That's me too! ❤️

[@annarodriguez9868]

Sometimes when I have decided to do an hour of decluttering I like to play Hooked on Classics album. It has a disco beat and it keeps me moving. When my kids were young and they heard that music they knew to stay out of the way cuz mom had become the Tasmanian devil going through the house. I'm adhd and this works for me.

[@arlenekeith6235]

I started my decluttering 3 years ago ago after my husband passed. We have no children, so my goal is to not leave my niece and her family too much to deal with. I also watch The Minimal Mom. Dawn has been an immense help ! She keeps trash, donate, and time will tell bins. Thank you for your ideas as well !

[@donnaw1835]

You should read about the concept called “Swedish Death Cleaning”. It is a method of decluttering whose goal is to make things easier for your heirs.

[@Good-DaySunshine]

Arlene, Sorry for your loss- I know it's so hard. ❤

[@mm-qm9zh]

Another great video…thank you! ☺️ Meline

[@TMcLure100]

I like the Minimal Mom too! I'm glad you are saving your niece from this task, you are a very caring Aunty.💓

[@barbaraclark9423]

Minimal Mom fan as well! Really helpful.

[@charlotteryner6583]

A good friend of mine is a big believer in rewards and I'm getting on board with it. During my day I reward myself when I've finished my chores with a chapter in my current read. Finish the dishes and wipe down the countet...read a chapter. Vacuum the living room...read a chapter. Gets the work done and I'm not up all night reading. Sometimes I watch utube instead. 😊

[@susanbertrand8620]

I do this too, it seems to be the only thing that works..

[@akontarini]

😊❤

[@kzZnAT0r]

❤❤❤

[@kzZnAT0r]

❤❤❤

[@Elizabeth-tb5wh]

Ok…wasn’t going to comment but you asked me to so here goes. I’m a pack rat. Always have been. Let me tell you I’m 67 and it’s amazing the CRAP….some useful….most not so much….but it’s just incredible how much stuff I’ve accumulated. My husband passed in November of 2022 and the first thing I did was donate this monstrosity of THE ugliest, biggest, sectional couch in ugly couch history. I can’t TELL you how happy I was to see that thing go. And I haven’t replaced it. May not replace it. 🤷🏻‍♀️ But along with being a pack rat, I’m a procrastinating pack rat. BUT I’ve watched these videos where a guy buys a house with all the contents and proceeds to sift through someone’s life. To my utter horror. Y’all know him. Alex Archbold. 😉 Anyway I have made a promise to myself to either declutter….and I’ve actually begun the process….or just move. 😂 Build a whole new house and walk off. That has been a serious thought I’m afraid. BUT I’ve partially cleaned out his closet and I’ve cleaned out and decluttered my kitchen cabinets. The bottom ones. I just continually tell myself how wonderful I am for getting that far JUST to try and not be overwhelmed. Home ownership is not easy. And Adulting is hard! But….how do you eat an elephant. Right? One bite at a time! Thanks Tim. You inspire us! 🙏🏻❤️

[@TheNewRetiredMe]

Thank you. I’m very sorry for your loss. ❤️

[@CopingwithGrattitude]

Great job!

[@kareni8640]

As a child of Depression era parents it was instilled in me that every thing has value. Wow. I know that was a long time ago, but hard to change what I was taught. I know times have changed, and the new and improved are readily available to us that were not for them. Still yet, it’s difficult for me to just discard things that, while I may not need, still have value and/or may be of use in the future. I do think, in some ways, it may be a generational thing for some.

[@BriardBuddy1]

So how do you convince yourself to get rid of things that still have value? I’m trying to sell stuff but we don’t have enough traffic for garage sales. I’m not good with market place but maybe I need to get better at it. Any suggestions?

[@kareni8640]

@@BriardBuddy1 I don’t have any suggestions for you because I think it’s so personal. I can only share what I did. It took me a year for some things, less for others. For example, I’m 65, single and have been retired for 10 years. I thought about it a lot before I did anything. Then I thought, if I moved from my home of 35 years and moved into an apartment/condo, what would be important to me? What do I need? What do I actually use? What has been in totes that I have to look in just to see what’s there? Then I decided, what is truly of value to me. I had to let go of the monetary value (what did I pay for it, what is it worth) and I simply passed it on and donated to homeless shelters, women’s shelters and other organizations and hope it was of help to others. I wasn’t easy, but now I can say it was so worth it. Someone once told me, remember, everything in your home is really just yard sale value. Take small steps. Good luck when you chose to move forward.

[@franpatzcraig6713]

I was raised the same way. What helped me enormously was to tell myself over and over that these things were not valuable to anyone when they are stashed away gathering dust. And someone who has so much less than I have would be so delighted and grateful to find what they need at a charity shop. I sold nothing. Way too much for me to tackle. I packed it up a little bit at a time and gave it to a friend if I knew for sure it would be loved and used, or hauled it off to Salvation Army or Morgan Memorial. I have not regretted one thing, not one, that I gave away.

[@franpatzcraig6713]

It helped me to realize that my peace of mind and enjoyment of my home had enormous value, not to mention the value of my time and the stress of trying to arrange to sell things. These were more valuable to me than any profit I might take in from selling my stuff. If you do decide to sell anything, set yourself a minimum value that you will try to sell and just give away or toss the rest. YOU are what is important, not the money that is already spent and gone.

[@CopingwithGrattitude]

Just let it go. My parents were of the depression era as well and they had 8 kids…and my mom was a hoarder. It was a nightmare to clean out their home in the end. I am trying to not do the same to my boys. It never occurred to either of them to declutter.

[@byDsign]

Boy, you are making so much sense! I'm gonna declutter... soon. 😀 _Procrastinator r' us_

[@kzZnAT0r]

😊😊😊

[@rw7806]

I had to laugh when you said “trying on a shirt that doesn’t fit is simple-donate it”. Hahahaha. No, there are multiple steps in my mind between there along with tears and recriminations. 😂

[@kzZnAT0r]

😊😊

[@lesliejones7018]

A couple of years ago I came across The Minimal Mom on youtube. I watch her regularly. You have been the only man that I've seen to actively show us your decluttering process! Your voice is calming and you are honest with us. That's refreshing. You also have a great laugh. I was in the elementary education field until a year ago. A health issue came up that made me decide to retire early at age 62. All the clothes I wore to work were just hanging in my closet - not benefitting anyone. I've since given them away. That was an easy decision. As a fellow procrastinator I've spent hundreds (probably more like thousands) of hours THINKING about how and what items to declutter with little actual decluttering. I tend to see the big picture which is very overwhelming for me. Every room in my house is full of stuff. Doing a little each day has been and is key for me. Although I don't always see the progress anything that leaves my house IS progress. Thank you for sharing your journey (and your laughter) with us. I appreciate all you are doing for me.

[@angusmorrison9433]

"Although I don't always see the progress ..." I have made so many trips to GWill and other thrifts and/or trashcan and you wouldn't be able to tell I've done a thing. Amazing. But I plan to keep going.

[@JasmineBrownOttawa]

Thanks from a fellow procrastinator 😃 One tool I use is a checklist of many little things, and I give myself 2 or 3 things I need to get done on a given day. I love the feeling of checking items off the list. It really helps with procrastinating, and sometimes I feel inspired enough to keep going on more tasks.

[@mpgibson6342]

I've heard that the ideal number in terms of setting tasks is 3 - I'll accomplish these 3 tasks today. Get the satisfaction of checking them off, then (if you feel ready) add 1-3 more. Surprisingly effective.

[@mistyblue6061]

Somebody gave me a list of things to do pad with three headings for Christmas which was good: This week, Later, Someday

[@adrimathlener8008]

You can make a list of thing to do (don't be surprised it's gonna be a long list for a procrastinator). The thing that works for me is that I do at least 1 thing of that list every week.

[@annarodriguez9868]

My husband was very orderly and I WAS the procrastinating clutterbug. We were like the odd couple, but he wasn't picky. One day he gave me a yellow legal pad and told me to make a list of ten things that needed to be done. Then he said to number them in order of priority and then do the most urgent one first. If time allows take care of 2 other things that were less urgent. I made the list and he told me to add a coffee break to the list. He was a great husband and dad.😊 At the end of the day anything that doesn't get done moves into the Tomorrow list along with new things that need to be done. I've never completed all ten tasks, but I have always made some progress. That's better than feeling nothing has been accomplished. Peace and blessings to all.

[@annarodriguez9868]

@@mistyblue6061 😅

[@HumbleVoyager]

Thanks for the video, Tim. Things and spaces overwhelm me. The thought of decluttering the home I've lived in and shared with my family for 40 years, is terrifying. So the way I have been approaching it, with a measure of success, is turning it into a routine and breaking down the spaces into workable units. For instance, I can't handle even the thought of decluttering the bedroom. However, I can handle decluttering a corner, drawer, dresser top or etc. I dedicate some amount of time, 6 days per week to decluttering as a routine. First, I go through the space just looking for trash and throw it away. Next, I look only for items that belong somewhere else and items I don't want or need. Either I put those items away where they belong or put them into the trunk or my car for donation. Finally, I'm left with a space that only has in it what I want to keep in that space! Since starting this routine several months ago, it is amazing what a difference it has made. My husband, who is a top-notch keeper of EVERYTHING, noticed how much better our living space was becoming! It may take me the rest of my life, but this house IS going to be decluttered!! Have a lovely week, Tim.

[@BabyMonkeyDefender]

You've just given me the one way I haven't tried! I love you stranger! I screen shot your process and I'm saving it and will follow it. Thank you thank you! 😁

[@debraqalo]

Stage four metastatic breast cancer in my bones. I have a finite lifeline. Been in this house 30 years. Need and want to declutter/empty three bedroom house. Loving your tips. Thank you

[@deeannbenson3096]

God bless you. Don't forget to do the things that bring you joy. ..even if one of those things is throwing out an ugly shirt you only wore once (I did) Joy and blessings!

[@CopingwithGrattitude]

Good luck on your journey, if you get too tired, just write down the things that are the most meaningful to you and be sure you have a will in place and an advanced directive.😘 I lost my mom to breast cancer, a hoarder her entire life-she grew up extremely poor…and one day she stopped caring about any of her stuff. She would not allow us to barely empty the trash without checking it, as long as she was able.😢 We forgave her. Please don’t worry too much about it. Focus on trying to find comfort and spending time with people you love. That is all that really matters.

[@akontarini]

Wishing you strength and courage ❤

[@char72]

Absolutely praying for you. Just lost my most wonderful So in law at 65 with stomach cancer. He never had any symptoms until a month before diagnosis. So not ready to lose him. My daughter was devastated. She is a nurse so he was home through the whole process. May God be with you and comfort you.

[@kzZnAT0r]

May you find comfort in your memories

[@bria2596]

Three pairs of jeans is not excessive. If they all fit, keep the spare. Cotton harvests have been bad for two years, and clothing quality is decreasing at the same time prices are going up. See where this is going?

[@myokanaganlife]

And someone else can benefit from those jeans that he isn’t using & is taking up space in his home. He didn’t say to toss them, he said to donate them (or sell). Excess is crippling so don’t criticize someone who’s trying to offload to free up their space & their brain/life.

[@kzZnAT0r]

❤😊

[@anitadally8991]

Two things have helped me to declutter over the summer. I have a long way to go ( starting my 30th year of teaching Kindergarten and as an administrator you know how teachers can be😂) but these are suggestions that have helped me. 1. Put 5-10 minutes of decluttering into your routine. I procrastinate especially if it’s perceived by me to be a big job. Putting that 5-10 minutes of work in and rewarding myself for doing some decluttering today has been helpful for me. I have also found that the more I have been sticking with that, that I end up resetting the timer and going again. Sometimes the hurtle is just getting started and after you do, you realize maybe it’s not as big of a job as my feeling say that it is. 2. Make it a challenge. I found a printable searching on the internet that was a sheet for a 1000 item declutter. I set up my boxes like you mentioned in the video and decided to make it a summer challenge for myself. Every time I decluttered an item, I marked off a square on my sheet. This helped me with some of those items that I would hesitate to get rid of. 3. Put a time limit on the think box. I only allow myself one think box or I would just be stuff shuffling all of my stuff into “ think” boxes! If I have not pulled out anything from that box in a month, I don’t even look,at it again, I just donate the box Just my two cents of things that have helped me. I enjoy watching your videos!

[@Naatta]

I like the "Think", "Take", and "Toss" boxes. Now if only I could find a way to keep the cat out of the boxes, ha ha!

[@TheNewRetiredMe]

LOL. That’s a problem.

[@kzZnAT0r]

❤❤

[@MrsTigerbalm]

I love your calm warm reflective presence in your videos and your whole outlook Tim. So many videos are frantic, loud, talking ‘at’ me top speed, crammed … whereas here I feel as if I’ve sat down, had a conversation with you over a mug of coffee and that you’ve warmed my heart. You attract that same approach in the calibre of comments from other listeners too which I find enriching and inspiring. This gives me more uplift to go back and continue decluttering, simplifying, sifting, treasuring…than any loud instructional “psychobabble” blast. Thank you so much.

[@PhilThach]

I think we have the same dishes. Plain white, square, and thin so they don't take up so much space in the cabinet. I like the hanger idea. I'd wait until you wear out a pair of those jeans and throw it out instead of the pair you haven't worn much. I like the reward idea. Last week on garbage night, I noticed that our huge can that I roll out to the street every week was only about 1/3 full so I asked Heather if she had anything to get rid of. We ended up cleaning out some of the lower cabinets in the kitchen and nearly filled up that can with junk. Then we had ice cream! :) Thanks, Tim!

[@SirenaSpades]

That reminds me somewhat, of what I've been working on. My town has a strict trash limit. So each week, I've been making sure I hit the maximum number of trash bags at the curb with my 'clean out' trash, the extra bags I make sure each week are two extra 30 gallon bags full per week. Of cleaned out trash! I have them ready to go out to the curb already for this week.

[@kzZnAT0r]

😊😊

[@Ophelia_1668]

My partners father has just sadly passed away and although its only a 2 bed flat, the amount of stuff is overwhelming. Nobody wants the furniture etc., it has to be thrown away or we beg a charity to take it away, you cant even give the stuff away. Once the valuables have been distributed the rest of it is just viewed as junk! I am not a minimalist, I have collections of 1930s glass, which is pretty and still holds value, so when I feel like I am getting frail and no longer want to clean it, I will sell it, consolidate my money and probably distribute valuable keepsakes before I go. I have a wipeable board on my kitchen wall, I write 3 tasks on it, as a maximum and nothing else goes on the list until those 3 tasks are complete, sometimes if it feels like a big task, I only write the 1 task down, otherwise lists can get overwhelming.

[@kzZnAT0r]

❤❤❤

[@user-qq7uq8lh9o]

We have five children and twelve grandchildren. Most live far away. My “hope” is that when we both are gone they will all walk into this house and open drawers and closets and not find an intimidating amount of stuff. My mother died in her early 90’s in a care facility. My husband and I were with her when she passed away and carried home a suitcase, two boxes and took some pictures off the wall that were hers. In fact I remember leaving a lot of her clothes for the other residents to use. I was on her checking account already. She no longer owned real estate. My sister and I had divided a few treasured items a couple of years before, a cedar chest she purchased from Sears with her egg money as a girl, a sewing rocker she likely rocked us all in. It was a blessing to not have all the paperwork and problems many family deaths produce. It is what she would have wanted. Carole

[@annakoelewyn3501]

I’m a big procrastinator! This is has been extremely helpful. As we look toward retirement and moving in the next two years, I have begun the process of decluttering. I try to set aside 15 minutes everyday to go through and organize and get rid of things I’m not using. The things that seem to weigh me down and stress me out. Then I reward myself with something I enjoy doing. I just have to remember not to procrastinate getting to those 15 minutes!

[@annarodriguez9868]

Why don't you write it on your calendar like an appointment. Set a time to do your 15 minutes and then reward yourself. Do it at a time of day when you normally feel energetic and can move quickly to do as much as you can in those 15 minutes. You can do it! 😉

[@flamingogirl57]

Oh my goodness this is a breath of fresh air to me ! I'm 66 and am on a mission to decluter my home. I'm a procrastinator as well. I also deal with some physical challenges so my pace is often slow. Slowly but surely I am getting there, one cabinet, one drawer ,one room at a time ! Thank goodness I moved to a little two bedroom cottage, 2 years after my Husband passed away . It was a nightmare going through all the stuff we had and downsizing from a 4 bedroom, two story farmhouse, the barn and garage to move into my little cottage.

[@kzZnAT0r]

❤😊

[@lanamichalski3208]

I'm so glad no pillows were harmed in the making of this video....now I can sleep well tonight...lol. I love your videos...keep them coming Tim & thank you!

[@beckyg3852]

Tim, you are touching lives in ways you don’t know. Keep up the good work. I too am making slow progress but I can see that little light at the end. Thanks for helping me get off the couch!

[@marciahenry3893]

Your advice is wonderful. I am enjoying this gentle encouragement.

[@anitasimmons3599]

Thank you for another great video. My husband passed at the end of last year and I have been continuing the decluttering we had started together. With out my help mate, it has been more tedious, but his death also motivated me to keep at it. Our children don't want the same things we have. I don't want to leave them a mess to deal with when I am gone. They have great memories and would rather have experience than things. As we were decluttering and redoing spaces in our home together, my husband and I found we liked our home better with less. I'm continuing to work on this room by room. Each room that gets done becomes the motivation to do more and I can spend more time doing it. It gets easier too. Thank you for taking the time to create this video and I am glad no pillows were harmed in the process 😂.

[@TheNewRetiredMe]

I’m very sorry for your loss. ❤️

[@Good-DaySunshine]

So sorry for your loss! ❤❤

[@akontarini]

So sorry for your loss! 💚

[@amritabhattacharyya4882]

💚

[@mermeow]

Yeppurrz. I'm a procrastinator & introvert, too. The reward system doesn't really work for my purrsonality, though. If I want something, I'll do/eat it regardless. 😹 I just slowly declutter at my own pace, whenever the mood strikes. This past weekend, I did manage to bag up clothes I no longer wanted for donation, & filled a black garbage bag up of trash. Which was tough just because it's hot & I have no A/C. So, not only do I fight procrastination, I have to fight the weather, too. 😹

[@TheNewRetiredMe]

Do what works for you! Keep it up!

[@debbiedo72]

Thank you for not harming the pillows! Also, thank you for such an open and honest video about procrastinating. I have struggled with it all my life. I can relate to many things that you said.

[@denisearonow4921]

The more/longer I de-clutter the easier it becomes. My reward is an organized home with just the things I use and/or love to view, and an easy to care for space. The key for me was letting go of the "fantasy me" stuff. I no longer keep things that support who think I want to be in the future or used to be in the past (the dinner party entertainer, for example). Also key is to consider what you bring in after the de-clutter. Now I collect experiences rather than things, and when I gift people I try to choose consumables or experiences.

[@peggyparsons5003]

So true, You change. You're interests change. Time to move on. I like your term "fantasy me."

[@denisearonow4921]

@@peggyparsons5003 Thanks Peggy, the term isn't original but when I heard it, wow, it truly resonated, and helped a lot. Denise

[@jennifersavage3185]

Wow, that is so me, without actually realising. What I think I would like to be. Living in the moment now and content with it ,instead of sometime in the future that never actually materialises. Thankyou

[@denisearonow4921]

@@jennifersavage3185 😀

[@bluejay5531]

Thank you, you are so calming to watch. I have a serious issue with accumulating stuff and having a very hard time letting go of it. I am trying not to use labels on myself while seriously working on it, inside and out. I am constantly overwhelmed by the stuff, the process of clearing it out, the decision making. It is the result of depression and chronic fatigue in my case, but at the same time it creates more of those...this is currently my main huge challenge...

[@AmeliasMiMi]

You are not alone. The best of luck to you and prayers for your success 🫶🏻👍🏻😎

[@bluejay5531]

@@AmeliasMiMi thank you sending you the same wishes and prayers 💚🌺

[@mc5366]

"Think, Take, Toss" The 3 T's! Great suggestions and easy to remember.

[@sharonseal9150]

Unlike you, I am definitely a "maximalist" when it comes to decor, but am still motivated to declutter. My goal is to streamline all of my personal stuff and decor down to what I currently am using and/or love so that my kids will have easy decisions after I am gone. At 75 I no longer want to hold onto things just in case I might use them again someday. I have made it clear to them that I do not expect them to hang onto anything that I own after I am gone unless they love it and want it in their life.. I am trying to pass on to kids and grandkids anything they might want right now, with no strings attached.; once I decide it is leaving the house, it is gone from my mind. What the kids do not want goes to Goodwill. I moved in with my mom 13 years ago when my dad died and over the following 12 years I helped my mom get rid of unused and unloved items, so when she passed away there were minimal personal items to deal with - mostly clothes and kitchen stuff. We had already eliminated most of her old furniture and replaced it with my furniture. I redecorated her bedroom for her, and we went through her closet about once a year. We had organized her photos and mine into one large collection. My next step is in progress, and that is to scan all the meaningful family photos so that they can be shared right now with all the kids and grandkids. My best procrastination tool so far is to purchase a JBL bluetooth clip on speaker that I synced with my laptop so that I can listen to podcasts while I do chores and decluttering tasks, both indoors and outside. No excuse now to sit glued to my laptop LOL.

[@anneh3705]

In our early sixties we recognised issues for our friends who are ten to fifteen years older than us, they needed to de clutter quickly to move house.We decided to take on decluttering as a ten year plan, and so we started slowly culling. Three years down the track we have made some significant changes. We will keep at it. It has been less traumatic and less tiring for us and given us a long term goal. If we need to move in ten years time it might be that little bit easier.

[@BellaDonna.58]

👍🏻on white. I applied that same principle to linens, towels, dish towels etc. every thing goes together so if something rips or breaks it’s easy to match

[@shanew.williams]

Procrastination has been linked to depression. I suffer with procrastination and depression and i feel so much of what you describe. Thank You for this vid & the other one. Hopefully for me, age 60 is not too late to change.

[@akontarini]

Wishing you strength and courage to overcome the depression mostly and then slowly but surely everything will fall in place. My friend started by getting a book for a walk, where she left it in a park bench. Next day, when she went out for the wall the book was gone and that made her circle the park, first time in the 5 years that she moved next to the park! Try something, anything and everything until it gives you joy not to keep but to give something away...my thought bubble

[@susanhauke8164]

My reward for filling a box with stuff and getting that box outta the tiny "envelope" I live in....IS... that little extra 12" X 15" empty floor space where the box was. Something I don't have to walk around or worry I'm going to trip on it and break a wrist or a hip. Best reward ever.

[@abundantlyinspired]

After having been the (self-appointed) Queen of Procrastination for MANY years, weirdly decluttering is the main way I distract myself from doing my actual work!! 😂😂But thru recent research on the subject, I have found procrastination is linked to perfectionism. 🤔So I use decluttering (which I feel quite proficient at) and put off my actual work for my home business (which I do have some insecurities with). I enjoyed your video and hope to use the perspective you shared to get over my other perfectionism. 😊

[@peggyparsons5003]

"procrastination is linked to perfectionism." very interesting. thanks for sharing.

[@annakoelewyn3501]

After watching your video and commenting, I walk in my room and realized I had promised myself weeks ago I would clean out one dresser drawer a day. I had only done two of nine drawers. So I set forth and tackled four drawers. Thank you from one Z to anotherZ!

[@rosesarered5539]

Your way of decluttering is so down to earth, it’s so much more realistic and convincing.

[@nancypeplau9747]

I got rid of my problem! I have no TV for the last 35 plus years! Took a little getting use to initially but boy oh boy did I fill that freed up time with making memories! Put that TV in the think box of yours and replace it with a hobby. Get an electric bicycle, pack a lunch and ride to a beautiful location and really enjoy the freedom and that sandwich. Bring a camera and really explore the surroundings. The bonus of no TV is you will eliminate not only something that wastes time but you will eradicate negative crap that is going on outside your domain that you invite into your home and life! I no longer eat a meal with the news blasting fear at me! I no longer watch reruns! There is nothing at all on a TV that I needed in my life. I truly am decluttered inside and out and I am grateful to be enjoying life at 72! Grab a bottle of water and take a hike! I love your honesty and sincerity. Live in the moment making new memories. Don’t let the past rent space in your brain, put it in the Toss box. Retirement IS the BEST part of our lives! Peace be with you.

[@kimredmond3550]

Lifelong procrastinator here so totally relate to your intro. My daily to-do list includes all the tiny steps of achieving a task - so I have more to check off, and I can pretend to have accomplished much more than I actually do. My other master skill is self justification for every item I keep - and my latest reason is that I can use items to barter with, if the grid goes down. I’m not a hoarder, and have had a buy and flip re- sale business for years so stock is scattered throughout my house while it waits to hit the shop. I consider it cozy and it feels homey - and I like that it’s future income. I do find it fascinating to watch decluttering videos however, and my daily to do list includes dispatching 1 item a day from the house. Today is a dried out container of chalk paint from a closet shelf. House already feels lighter…

[@yvonnemcnaughton455]

Last summer we were planning on moving to a retirement community. We did a massive cleanout. Furniture, pool table, slot machine, pinball machine, patio furniture. And all the small stuff from closets and garage. Guess what? We enjoyed our new found space and didn't move.

[@theresasuttle711]

15 minute timer. Spend 15 minutes, that’s all doing the thing that you dread then move on. It helps me and I usually spend more than the 15. Weather it’s decluttering or just straightening so that I can declutter.

[@JamieM470]

I've actually set the timer for 10 minutes before. If I'm feeling depressed/unmotivated/tired sometimes even 15 minutes feels like more than I can handle. But for some reason, 10 minutes feels do-able to me. It's eye-opening though...it's amazing how much you can get done in 10 minutes, let alone 15 minutes.

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

Sometimes I don’t even do that much but try to get rid of a few things a day. I keep a daily tally to keep me honest and also motivated. Some days, it’s just a pair of socks. Yesterday I was ambitious and got rid of 47 things. Over time it adds up. Some days I do devote hours to it but who wants to do too much of that?

[@karenyates6797]

It's all about doing things in stages or gradients. We climb a ladder one rung at a time, not the bottom step to the top. I like the idea of a small but meaningful reward, when progress has been made or an item on the "to do" list has been marked off! Thanks for another great video!

[@susieeguez2148]

Gosh, you described me so well in this video! When I have a task that is a big one, that includes alot of physical work to get done, I tend to delay even more. One thing that I am trying to get better at is thinking through what will help me be successful. I think whether there is a sequence of smaller tasks to be done that will help me get the bigger, more difficult part accomplished. I do those smaller tasks first so nothing gets in my way when I start doing the more difficult part of the overall task. I take away any excuse to delay getting it done. I always remember something I read once - always do one task everyday, no matter how small, so you can experience a feeling of success everyday. It helps to feel better about yourself and getting one step closer. It really has worked for me. Thanks for your videos!

[@dhurd4099]

Like your take on getting decluttering done. The profile fits me too. Sometimes the reward of seeing the convenience and simplicity of what you’ve done is a reward in itself.

[@romeldagioscio9185]

Another great video that I can truly relate to, I’m a professional procrastinator. Getting better at decluttering, I’m 74 and I don’t want my son and his wife to have to go through all my junk when I’m gone. Keep on encouraging us, we need all the help we can get. Your friend in Indiana.

[@craftycalley]

I live alone. Should I ever have a dinner party (ha ha) then I will have to go to a separate cupboard in another room to get out more plates, bowls etc as I only have a few things in my kitchen cupboard which ideally is only a step away from my sink/draining board. I used to have a dishwasher, but when I moved I decided that as there continued to be only me, then I wouldn’t get one as I found that I had a cupboard full of mugs and dishes that in order to get a full load in said dishwasher, then I would use most if not all. Nowadays, in order to save electric on heating the water, I normally only do one load of hand washed dishes a day. It’s worked out really well.

[@patcavasin5947]

Lots of good ideas...you are helping people.

[@gailjohnson6670]

Good getting in the head talk of the emotional side of clutter and giving oneself a reward afterwards. Thank you for the excellent video. Blessings to you.

[@pinkroses135]

I like your approach. You're speaking my language.

[@ericpaulband]

Thank you so much. I am a procrastinator and am doing this very thing. Lost my wife of 17 1/2 years in January 2022 and I am struggling bad with decluttering

[@janiceross5134]

Thanks Tim, from a fellow procrastinator. I have found listening to an audio book or podcast helps me to stay on task, so I guess I am rewarding myself as I go about doing things that are not that glamorous. Best wishes.

[@annsalty5615]

Once you start decluttering, it starts to get addicting. I enjoy it once I really got started. Taking back the space and making keeping it clean easier and looks so much better! Good idea to keep reviewing areas you think have been decluttered. I am soon to go on round 2 and cut out more stuff I do not need.

[@jeannebee2935]

I call it peeling the onion, one layer at a time.

[@michellelee5402]

Thanks for including the the updates in the end!

[@KarenLovesColours]

It always helps me to get up when I give myself the permission to stop whatever has to get done after 5 minutes, if I don't want to continue. It takes away the pressure and 99% of the time I don't stop after 5 minutes, because the first step is the heardest and after it's done it's actually quite easy to continue. So yeah, I manipulate myself 😀but for the better... 🙂

[@karenharris3123]

I love how you explain your system to encourage us not to get overwhelmed by decluttering decisions. I watch Dana K White on A Slob comes clean as she is all about progress and only progress and progress over perfection! Her method of decluttering without making a huge mess in the meantime is so encouraging. 😊

[@akontarini]

I have yet to accomplish that...I try but I make a mess

[@CopingwithGrattitude]

I second Dana K White; I always end up with a worse disaster if I don’t put it there NOW.

[@relaxinnature7706]

My wife and I went through a decluterring two years ago...we decided to live in Mexico! We sold almost everything we owned and only took 7 suitcases (two were mine 😂 ). It was actually quite liberating not to have all the junk around, although we did have to accumulate a few things for the kitchen. We've since moved back to the US and still have the mindset that we don't need so much stuff. Thanks for the video!

[@SirenaSpades]

That is wonderful! I dream of doing that! Good for you!

[@cherizeaustin0816]

I am planning to move out of states too Portugal I decluttered donated and discarded nearly all my stuff I have small storage will b planning to finish it by next June, I will stay at home of friend from now till then saving funds learning new language and still tossing and organizing last bits of my treasures

[@cherizeaustin0816]

Will Carry I suitcase and backpack save other things for future shipping. What an adventure I’m on at 60!

[@akontarini]

💚@@cherizeaustin0816

[@munirasultana2313]

Oh, You're a Mind Reader 🤗 I often find myself suddenly extremely motivated... due to my Procrastination, I was unable to accomplish the most important things in my Life 😔 "Think, Take, Toss"... I Love Your SUGGESTIONS ❣️

[@rw7806]

It’s not too late. Get started now! I watched a video about this by Dry Creek Wrangler of all people and he said to “die on the road” to where you want to be!

[@munirasultana2313]

​@@rw7806Thanks!

[@akontarini]

💯

[@kittywisdom4534]

EVERLASTING EDUCATOR indeed. Luv your efforts to share ideas and encouragement with others. Thank you!

[@hp7093]

Cleaning out my moms attic right now. I need this

[@BadPaul33]

From one procrastinator to another, thanks for the encouragement. Sometimes, THAT'S what's most needed.

[@kzZnAT0r]

😊❤

[@user-pi8hk6xi9q]

I had decades of not having much, living a 1950's wage earners life prior to 2000, McGyvering fixes, using whatever had to fix things and in remembering how it was without it, it makes it hard to discard it. Beyond things mention in this video, other things I've done to help with this, is I don't ask "could" or "would" I use it in the future, as I would, if needed, to use it, which would give them a "Yes", most of the time. Instead I ask "Am I 'likely' to use it in the future?", or want to? Do I want to go back to that time? Those questions get a big fat "No." almost all the time. I keep narrow the space I can use, keeping only what I can fit into it and choosing those winners. When I've had enough, I stop for a while.

[@marinaabad4995]

Great video and all the wonderful suggestions. I would like to add that reducing the accumulation of things is by telling your family, friends, neighbors, coworkers , etc, is if they are going to give you a gift, make it edible, gift card for the movies, restaurants, personal services (mani/pedi, massage, hair cut), magazine subscriptions (preferably digital), tickets to concerts, or anything that is intangible and consumed and doesn't need to be stored. I did this 15 years ago and don't have a collection of gifts, although nice, I'm done with keeping them. I did this for my parents and they greatly appreciated the intangible gifts. For those procrastinators like I used to be, think of how many weekends/days you have left in your life and what would you rather be doing than housekeeping/stuff keeping. I calculated how many days left I had when I retired, and boy howdy, that motivated me to get to it, did it almost daily, and was done before I knew it, less than 30 days. When finished, I now spend my time doing whatever I want daily, even if just vegging on the couch binge watching TV or reading, because my conscience is now mostly clear. I have set up a schedule to do laundry and chores once a week so I can goof off the rest of the week.

[@AlbertaMcConnell-qo7ov]

My neighbor and I both newly retired are excha ging 2 hours a week at each of our houses declutering. No job is too small! We have done things like fold and put rags u sed for cleaning into baskets according to size, cleaning out one drawer of games that grandkids no longer play with and donating books and toys. It makes sentimental items easier to part with when you have a pal to encourage you. We recently sorted through boxes of our chidren's baby clothes and paired it down to one outfit per child. Our children are all over age 30!

[@Maria-kl1ik]

I understand you when talking of procrastination. My working life before retiring was full of versatility and organising. Now I find myself living the same mentality collecting things superfluous to my needs.

[@ellenh278]

Missing pillows😂👏. The life of a famous KZbinr, dealing with everyone's opinions on your life.

[@akontarini]

🤣🤣🤣so true

[@kevincrock1202]

My wife is soooo happy I found your channel !! I made a futile little effort that made a big difference ! Now she is going to town with it myself as well !! What a big difference in a short period of time ! Some things I will keep forever but a lot is on its way out. Thanks again for your inspiration! Kevin in France and Florida

[@kzZnAT0r]

❤😊

[@fwebster6226]

I am a do it now person married to a procrastinator! He has taught me how to slow down in life (at times) and appreciate the small things in life. He has learned to procrastinate ever so slightly less. Just to note that he has the same peaceful demeanour about him that you have - gotta balance out the chaos 😂

[@sigma_carnivoresse]

My current chaos: rotating the three bedrooms in our home after one child has gone to college, so needs have changed. This includes swapping two bathroom contents. Closets and bathrooms are done, but life did not pause and different wall configuration means swapping some furniture and such. Looking forward to this being done! I have daily goals and a big goal for one month from the project start day.

[@janakase6319]

I want to thank you for this video. It shows me self-compassion, reasoning and rationable approach. I am so glad "I may be a procrastinator and do not have to condemn myself as unsuitable, lazy or some other negative category". Lovely laughter you have!

[@kzZnAT0r]

😊❤

[@akontarini]

❤😊

[@kathleendunham6944]

This video hit home for me. I too am a procrastinator. My garage is the hardest for me to declutter. Lots of items in there I have not used in years and although I know I am not going to use them it is hard for me to throw away or donate them. I always have a reason to keep the things. My house is easier but what I do declutter I put the things in the garage and it just adds to the problem. If I have a think box I usually find a reason to put them back. I know I can do this but I wish it was not so hard. I had a garage sale last weekend and got a lot of stuff sold and that was a good reward but that yard sale was a ton of work. It did make a huge difference in the way the garage looks now but it is not the way I want it. I would like to park my car in there. Keep making these videos and the comments from others are always helpful. Thanks again Tim, it was nice too hear there are others that put things off too.

[@Kiki-wi7px]

It's CRAZY that People Park Their Nice Expensive Car's Ouside, so They can Fill the Garage with STUFF that They More than likely will Never Use Again.

[@mskulagal]

We lived overseas for 8 years and collected a ton of magnets! We decided to put up sheet metal on the front of each cabinet in the garage and place the magnets there. When we get out of the car we can either glance at them or occasionally reminisce about the places we visited over the years. We still travel and get magnets but not nearly as many or as often. 😊

[@Roblox_Fanatix]

Hello from Kingsport TN! I started decluttering about 7 years ago when I became tired of and overwhelmed with years of clutter. My husband and I both were bad to hold onto every little item over the past 47 years of marriage, and our house also became the place where everyone else in the family seemed to want to "store" their junk until they might meed it again, so all of that became overwhelming to say the least. Your tips are similar to what I folowed to declutter. I can't stand clutter now, and it has become a lot easier to get rid of things😁

[@akontarini]

Same here! Now, it is just part of what I do, so much quicker and easier to let go

[@user-us6un4hi1w]

Thank you so much!! I am a retired educator and a recovering hoarder. ;) It's so much easier to move out a few things at a time and savor that moment for a bit. It's easier when facing overwhelm and an attachment to something that's still useful or that you've had for years. ❤

[@Mo.Vintage15]

I like the labels ~ think, take and toss! So happy to know that no pillows were harmed 😂

[@mariamacdonald1007]

I love your advice! One trick that helps me get started on something I have been putting off is to commit a short amount of time to just get started. I had a big nasty cleaning job to do. I said to myself, “I will commit one hour to the closet today”. As I got to the closet job an hour went by, but I had momentum going so I did not stop after the first hour. I did not finish the project yet, but I am now more motivated to get back to it even if it is just one hour at a time until it is done..

[@peggyparsons5003]

"I'm doing this for myself." Lots of good tips, Tim.

[@aledelmar2557]

You are doing a great job decluttering. Keep it up. Love your videos.

[@valerie718]

Your comments at the end definitely got me giggling.

[@TheWoodburningWarrior]

I've used the hanger trick, it works

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

Or as someone else on youtube counsels, if there’s a line of dust on the shoulder line, you can probably get rid of it - you clearly aren’t wearing it.

[@kathyclarke8611]

Man Oh man did I ever need to see this! My husband and I both are procrastinators. I’ve started some decluttering, he’s done very little. We have 34 yrs of stuff! Your videos hit home with me & us. You’ve packed more info in this video than most do in double the time, thank you. I hope you will continue to speak to us procrastinators out here. Please please please!

[@sarahswan2182]

Love your method of thinking regarding decluttering. I’m still in the realization how important it was for me to decorate my home just right and felt like I couldn’t live without these things. I’m a homebody and now I don’t do anymore accumulation. I’m actually in the process of downsizing…in my mind and need to put in process. This of course comes with a dose of self talk ending with a lot of questions. I could write a book regarding this so I will stop now. Thanks for your tidbits as every little idea helps. Love your videos. ✌

[@sandydixon3618]

I am also decluttering the storage containers that I go thru. Most of the things we put in storage containers are things we really don't need, so I am reducing what I store away

[@NCweathernice]

I watch minimizing/decluttering videos and also hoarding videos. They motivate me to get up and see what I can get rid of.

[@aledelmar2557]

Hi Tim. Love your videos!

[@pinkroses135]

I tend to procrastinate when there are more difficult emotions involved or when I'm dealing with some kind of limiting belief. You tackle those you can take on anything. It's heart and soul work.

[@barbarap6851]

Great advice...this is exactly how I have decluttered our home...little sections at a time.

[@mpgibson6342]

Great advice! I've developed some of the same strategies for my procrastination. Baby steps are the way to go. I use a timer for 15 mins to 1/2 hour and see how much I can get done in that time - then stop. Have Take, Trash and Think containers in every room. And I do give myself little treats each time I have accomplished something! I also recommend Dawn at The Minimal Mom - those are great videos for decluttering tips. You'll be surprised at what you DON'T miss when it's gone - you just stop thinking about those items, so it actually isn't as painful as most people think it will be.

[@J4Julz]

I am a big procrastinator too, and part of it is seeing whatever I need to do as some huge thing that has to be completed in one fell swoop.Recipe for never getting started, isn't it? So I have developed this kind of a mantra that gets me rolling: "break it down, divide and conquer". No "sum zero days" is another that a friend told me- just do something toward the goal, and that is a positive step toward completion.

[@robins_nest_]

Ahh yes, the Procrastinator mantra "Think, Reflect, Take Time" When we finally move into the fourth section "Act" we can begin to call ourselves the "Pros" 😂❤ -Robin

[@sweetazrn12206]

I am so glad you are doing this and getting info out about decluttering after retirement because I tried to get my mother to do this and now she is moving to assisted living where you cannot take very much- like less than 1/4 of her house. It is so overwhelming for my brother and I to go through all her things. I hope more people get rid of things before it comes down the line. Thank you for your videos! I love them. 😊

[@debbic2055]

I’m a terrible procrastinator. When I am getting close to a deadline and have no motivation, I use a method I learned from The Fly Lady years ago. I set a timer for 15 minutes. I have to work for 15 minutes and then totally stop. Right now I’m watching KZbin videos for 15 minutes. Then I go back to projects for 15 minutes. I’m always amazed at what I can accomplish. Wish I could talk myself into this every day.

[@kzZnAT0r]

❤😊

[@teresacryer5872]

I'm a classic procrastinator. When I moved in May (this year), most of my unpacking hasn't happened, still. I have a "path" through my apartment. What I have found is now I'm ready to tackle the unpacking. I've been stewing over my boxes (and boxes) of packed up stuff. I realize that if I had to leave it because of a disaster, I wouldn't replace even half of it. That is my "yardstick" that I'm using to measure what I'm keeping for now. So I'm slowly going through stuff and going to dump it in the back of my car each week and haul it off somewhere. I hope everyone struggling with decluttering finds a way that works out for them on this journey.

[@victoriachatfield4612]

I was going to join the Procrastinators' Club, but I never got around to it. Yes, I can relate, Tim.

[@Psalm_27.4]

Wow, that opening scene with the road and the trees is FABULOUS!!