These 20 Decluttering LIES Are Keeping Your Home Cluttered & Messy!

Are clutter lies holding you back from getting rid of stuff? Here is a list of twenty decluttering lies to STOP believing if you want to simplify life by decluttering your home. Today we are myth-busting the most common clutter myths and misconceptions that lead to a cluttered and messy home, so you can achieve your dream of a clutter-free life! How many of these lies about clutter have you believed? Please like + comment below to let us know!
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ABOUT A TO ZEN LIFE
Along my journey to let go of 30 years of clutter, I accidentally became a minimalist and it was life-changing.
Before, I was an emotional hoarder with nothing but the clutter from lost loved ones - and $25,000 of debt - to my name. Now I have a beautiful home in Europe, a happy family, live debt-free, and - best of all - wake up to a life that I’m EXCITED to live every day.
My mission is to help you conquer your clutter and simplify YOUR way to a happier and better life. HERE'S OUR STORY: atozenlife.com/about-a-to-zen...
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[@theonetrueking2685]

Caveat - if the item you never use is a plunger, please, keep it. :)

[@terrischmidt764]

😅

[@cassimosher]

Right? I used to say Kon Mari could never work for me, because my broom and vacuum cleaner most certainly do not spark joy, but I do need to own one! 😂

[@jessieelliott3157]

Haha experienced that!!! Good point

[@AlexShiro]

😂

[@mariacastillo3090]

You guys are funny.

[@nogames8982]

One of my friends thinks I'm kind of crazy to just donate stuff instead of trying to get money for it. She's probably right. But sometimes it is such a hassle to try to sell something that I find it. Just much easier just to give it away. Yes, I probably could've made some money on some of the stuff I've given away, but it just wasn't worth the stress of putting out an ad, dealing with flaky people, etc. etc.

[@AtoZenLife]

Not everyone has the time or patience for selling, so do what works best for you - people are 💯 more important than things!

[@k.s.k.7721]

I do the same - as I buy most of my clothes, books, appliances, small decorative items, etc, 2nd hand - I look at it as a "borrowing opportunity". For a small fee (the purchase price) I can use an item for as long as I want, then re-donate it so someone else can "borrow it" for themselves. So items get recycled, and the shops get money to fund their charity. And I look at my items as only temporarily in my care. It makes it MUCH easier to give them away eventually.

[@user-xl5hk3te9s]

Fortunately, I have a very good household consignment store nearby, so as I peel away my possessions, there is a good place to take them. Of course, not everything sells, but anything helps. Unsold items can then be donated.

[@veroniquejeangille8248]

@@k.s.k.7721I now do that with books and jigsaw puzzles. When I get stressed about giving up what I've just bought, I remind myself than it cost less than going to the restaurant and the pleasure lasted longer (either reading the book or assembling the jigsaw puzzle).

[@sarahkinsey5434]

@@veroniquejeangille8248 That almost sounds like a library with a fee

[@skybaby444]

My motto when cleaning is, nothing is ever CLEAN, but I can make it cleanER. The same applies to decluttering.

[@stefbmccoy8297]

Yes! When I finish cleaning I always say " better then it was!"

[@francoiselafferty-hancock5112]

I love this! I strive for perfection but that's not real life!

[@mirna-garcia]

I like this, i strugle with perfectionism

[@a1waystreet597]

I like that.

[@meggarstang6761]

Homes are living spaces and decluttering is always on ongoing project. In our clan, we all declutter twice a year minimum - just before Christmas so kids have room for new stuff and at the beginning of summer do their spaces keep up with changes as they grow up.

[@douglasgriffiths3534]

Jan Griffiths here. I decluttered after my husband died. I got rid of all of his clothes and shoes, and all of his obsolete computer stuff (he did work on them---refurbishing and stuff like that). All of the computer stuff was in large plastic totes, and those I emptied every week into my trash. I couldn't sell it---it was too old. I freed up 24 plastic totes, 8 of which became new homes for some of my ball pythons, who had outgrown their former homes. His mother had a storage unit with all of her stuff in it too. She passed away 9 months before my husband did. I sold the contents for $500. None of my stuff was in there. I have 2 fairly large sheds on my property, and those got cleaned out too. Now all I have in 1 of them is yard tools---lawn mower, weed wacker, rakes, shovel, tree limb lopper, etc. I feel so much better after all was done---like the world was off my shoulders. My husband died June 5, 2022, and his mom in Sept. of 2021. She died of covid, he died of pancreatic cancer. I miss them, but not their stuff.

[@nalanimulcahy8451]

Thats amazing, well done being able to do that. Also, I'm sorry for your losses. ❤

[@FRANCESCA01234]

Im very sorry for your losses.

[@douglasgriffiths3534]

@@FRANCESCA01234 Thanks, but I'm doing just fine. I work every day, and hang out with friends a lot. Not looking for another husband---I like being single. (Jan Griffiths).

[@douglasgriffiths3534]

@@nalanimulcahy8451 Thanks, but I'm doing great. I have a bunch of friends that I hang out with, and go to work every day. It was a long haul getting rid of everything, but I'm glad it's done. I just had my yard cleaned too, and all is nice and neat---the way I like it. I'm not looking for another husband--I'm happy single and just have myself to take care of. (Jan Griffiths).

[@donnacolwell3988]

I'm sorry for your loss. One of my older brothers passed in 2020. It was unexpected. My sister-in-law hired an online auction company to clear out my brother's workshop not too long afterwards. She got rid of an unneeded vehicle and lots of other stuff that had accumulated over the years. The things she sold were not items she would or could have used. I'm happy for her that she doesn't need to worry about all that stuff now. When I'm considering getting rid of something, one question I ask is if I were moving, would I take it with me? If not, then it can go.

[@MyFocusVaries]

I did a major declutter during covid, after my best friend died. I did it in what everyone says is the wrong way. Our house was chaos for about 2 months and my family was pretty overwhelmed. But it was part of my grieving process. I needed to get something under control when everything else in my life felt like it was out of control. But I did 2 years' worth of work in that 2 months that i wouldn't have done otherwise. So for me and for that time, it was the right way.

[@EarzOnTunz]

That's great!!

[@koalaeucalyptus]

I'm happy for you! I also work best with intense bouts of decluttering where I pull everything out and clean everything, sort through the stuff, remember good and bad times, try the stuff again, and have fun while making my way into organization. It just works better FOR ME. But many people I know absolutely hate the chaos of the process haha

[@pipsmommy]

@@AS-cz2nh 12:26 🎉

[@katthevampire942]

Candace, I’m so very sorry for the loss of your best friend.

[@christinerobinson9372]

How can getting it done not be the right way? You got it done and it made you feel better. That's what matters.

[@epowell4211]

LOVE THIS!!! I am the child of hoarders who were children of hoarders, and there is a lot of emotion around owning things. Financial instability didn't help- if you found a good buy on something, you got it, even if you were stocked, just because you didn't know when you could get it again. I always say, "You never stop paying for the things you own." You pay to house them, you pay to maintain them, and you pay emotionally by dealing with them. Finding the magic container to perfectly store something is the unicorn I'm always chasing. There's also a disconnect between buying organizational stuff and actually using it in my case: it's like, once I buy it, I feel it is done - I'm organized. My husband has always tried to help by saying, "would you rather store X and have it in the way until you might finally want it, or would you rather pop out to the store and replace it if you finally do?" I recently went to help family get items from a storage unit, and it was a real eye opener. At over $300USD/month, they were holding onto boxes of magazines, empty boxes, pieces of wood, broken items, and purchased items that never made it out of the box they came in. As a crafter, it's really hard to determine the value of stuff - just about everything can be made into something - so I have to limit things. I'm still out of control, but hopefully I will achieve zen lol

[@babycakes8434]

It is another level of wasting money, by renting storage space and paying to store that junk. I grew up in household where everything could be used later, so nothing ever was leaving the house, it was just moving and changing places. It is hard to break the cycle, but I decluter my place for the last 18 years, and I will continue to do so. I have a tiny place so it is a constant battle to keep stuff away.

[@BoringTroublemaker]

I’m a child of hoarders as well but I swung wildly in the opposite direction. When my house gets too overwhelming, I throw things away indiscriminately- antiques, keepsakes, sentimental items, photos - it doesn’t matter. It’s like I get so stressed out by the clutter than I just grab a bag and start clearing without thinking. My mother-in-law has stopped giving us anything because she was horrified to find out that things she given to us had been purged. I have been following Dana K White’s Decluttering at the Speed of Life book and it has really helped me continually declutter small areas which keep my whole house from becoming overwhelming. My sisters both love it and I recommend it to everyone.

[@heatheralice89]

So true 🙏❤

[@TheWolfeDen]

I'm in a very, very similar situation. Standing in solidarity ❤

[@NYCWendy1]

I understand.

[@trumax33]

"Perfection is the enemy of progress". This was my Achilles heel....not wanting to start something if I couldn't do it perfectly. Now I use Dana K. White's decluttering method & I'm forever changed!

[@jspaingreene6350]

Yes...I love Dana K.!

[@nanetten6238]

I realize I've used the goal of "perfection" as an excuse for not trying many things. Hopefully this will get better now that it's recognized.

[@szlash280z]

I have purchased so many tools and things for projects that I knew I wanted to do but had no actual plan to accomplish it. I'm talking Expensive things that I just never used. I do it over and over again. I strive for that perfection but often give up during planning. Then I have that tool or whatever sitting in my way for YEARS but I don't get rid of it because "I'm going to use it!"

[@sarahgardner7671]

Progress over perfection, Lisa woodruff of organizing 365

[@cherylperkins7538]

I'm also afraid to start something if I might mess it up. Thank you for bringing this up. I will tackle something today that I have been putting of due to this reason

[@darleneh608]

I think the KonMarie method can make sense, but for me, the categories need to be smaller. Taking out all of my clothes and putting them on the bed and working through all of it at once is doable if you're already a minimalist, but when I was more of a maximalist, it was overwhelming. Pulling out all of my dressy slacks and determining whether I could get rid of some of them was easily doable, not overwhelming at all.

[@paulaw418]

I totally agree. For example it's so much easier to start with the "underwear" drawer(s). Take a Saturday or Sunday and just do that. Panties, bras, socks/hosiery, tights, shape wear. Next time make it ALL of your tops. T-shirts, blouses, tank tops, sweaters. Then bottoms, slacks, jeans, leggings, sweatpants, yoga pants. Then seasonal. Holiday wear, bathing suits, coats, jackets, rainwear, ski pants, etc. Same with shoes. It might take 4 weekends to finish but so what. At least you won't get overwhelmed.

[@gardeninginthedesert]

Definitely! I live in a hot place so I now own less than 100 pieces of clothing, no seasonal clothes, and I still do it like this. Underwear, tops, skirts, trousers, dresses, accessories.

[@AshleyZieman]

I think Kom Mari meant that pulling all of your clothes out at once would make you realize how much you actually have vs how much you actually use. But by all means you do you. It will probably worl better for you and your decluttering journey ❤

[@marylhere]

I would find myself sleeping with my clothes.

[@elliekitchener3339]

@@AshleyZiemanyou’re right. She explains it in her first book. It’s essentially meant to be high-impact and a bit overwhelming, to give you a sudden impression of how much stuff you actually own, because we tend to underestimate, even if we know we’ve got a lot. That being said, it’s not going to be the method for everyone so I’m not preaching!

[@bryonyvaughn2427]

Another decluttering lie that I don't think people are even consciously believing is that if they get rid of something and end up needing that thing down the road, that they won't be able to get it again. This is something poverty can grind into us. (Trust me, after fleeing my home and being homeless, I horded every little thing because that insecurity transformed the depths of my being.) One thing that can help people overcome this lie to to consider what it's costing them to hold onto that thing "just in case." My holding onto so much silverware (including a set I never use because I hate look and feel of the plastic handles) meant that frequently the silverware drawer would jam when I was trying to close it. I donated an entire set of silverware that a homeless person getting rehoused can be blessed with AND now I enjoy all the silverware I have, don't have to pick through for what I like, and never have my drawer jam. That inspired me to donate dishes this morning. My place settings dishware are now all behind in one cupboard and my serving pieces are behind another. My space is more functional and pleasant to be work in now. 🙂

[@kaceykelly7222]

Thanks for your awesome comment! It really hit home with me.❤

[@lmo4879]

I'm sorry you went through those hard experiences. I'm glad you have secure housing now. This is a great point too - the poverty mindset can really hold us back when we're trying to declutter.

[@bryonyvaughn2427]

Thank you,​@@lmo4879. That experience has made me so much more aware of marginalized folks. I'm glad that has helped me to be less presumptuous and more inclusive, kind, and supportive in my words and actions going forward.

[@cassieoz1702]

The other side of this is the far-too-many urban middle class declutter influencers that say repeatedly "I can always buy another one later"😒

[@pippas5808]

I had the same problem after going through a period of homelessness. The game changer for me was reminding myself of how generous other people had been in giving items to me when I got my new home. I thought that I could either hoard stuff I didn't need or give it to someone else who did need it. A lot of my surplus ended up going to a young couple who had just been given a flat after several months of sleeping in their car. So it got to bless two formerly homeless households instead of just one!

[@juliajs1752]

Another lie is: "everything must go". I have a lovely set of tableware, plates of different sizes, tea cups and saucers. I never used the cups, but I love the plates. So I gave away the cups and saucers and kept the plates. Someone is happy with new tea cups and I am happy with less stuff!

[@gardeninginthedesert]

😂 It's true. It seems almost a sin to break up a set of something but they're inanimate objects, they don't have feelings, your plates aren't crying because their sisters (cups) moved out and are enjoying another life.

[@juliajs1752]

@@gardeninginthedesert Better than letting them rot in the back of the cupboard :D

[@patwagner9308]

Right ! We had a set of 8 big dinner plates & 8 matching wide bowls. We use the bowls nearly every day but almost never used the plates. I struggled for awhile, thinking we should give both away together. But! We kept the bowls & gave away the plates. So glad we kept the bowls !

[@grutarg2938]

Yes, and that can include completely useless and frivolous things. If you’ve decluttered and made space for your beloved rubber ducky collection, then keep it. Enjoy it. Display it on the mantelpiece.

[@sarahkeller-vp6hq]

I made a deal with myself: Just One Thing. My house fell into total chaos because of several health issues, and now I'm digging it out. Now, every day, I do at least one thing towards decluttering and cleaning it up. That thing may be as small as one piece of paper hitting the trash if my depression is bad, or my back is out, but it's at least that one thing. I write an accountability post on Facebook every day, so my friends help me do that one thing--it's really hard to go to bed knowing I have to tell them I didn't do my one thing! And I encourage them to do one thing towards whatever goal they have, whether they're decluttering, too, or trying to lose weight, or start exercising, or whatever. And I learned a rule for those 'just in case' items: the 20/20 rule. If you can replace it in twenty minutes or less, for twenty dollars or less, GET RID OF IT! Between Wal-Mart and Amazon, it's amazing how easy it is to replace stuff for twenty dollars. I hope one of these ideas helps someone!

[@laurancurtis5669]

💖

[@gerryxanthopoulou1279]

Thank you for your ideas.❤❤

[@eiPderF]

I had a Facebook friend who would say “someone tell me to ‘do the thing.’” Nobody needed to know what the thing was, but the acknowledgment that The Thing needed doing was enough. Goofy, but effective, and I’ve done it a few times myself. 🤷‍♀️

[@kellysueballard7654]

As someone with depression and back/mobility issues, I appreciate this.

[@cdean2789]

Depression holds me back but I'll start tomorrow. 👍

[@lankakaaos]

Last summer I made a promise to declutter 5-10min each day. After one table or closet is decluttered I”m maintaining it. This kind of decluttering starts showning after about month. I also have a box where I collect items I don’t need. I have allowed to get back things if I need it. I haven’t got anything back from there. I have donated most of my stuff. I did decide to only sell things I can get 50€ or more. Oh and I hate cleaning and decluttering. I love my more clutter free home. It is easier to clean and maintain clean. My goal is not to be minimalist. My goal is to get home I enjoy living in.

[@LauraHalvar]

Inspiring! Thanks. 😊

[@karentucker2161]

And that's the way to do it too 😊

[@MyFocusVaries]

"Decluttering takes too long" is like the old story of "learning piano takes too long." Time is going to pass one way or another, and I'd rather be living in a less cluttered space in a year than not decluttering because I think it will take too long.

[@Tulpen23]

I love this perspective!

[@lifewithcarol3069]

That is the same thing I told myself about going to college, I also thought I would not be able to complete it. Years later, about 10 years later I realized I could have earned 5 associate degrees and 2 bachelor degrees. I realized I had wasted time and let fear hold me back. Today I finally have an associate and is considering to keep going for the next degree levels.

[@AnnaM0906]

Great thought. And any progress you make leaves you better off than where you were before. Also applies to working on your health.

[@clairedaines508]

My husband grumbled about me decluttering the junk from the breakfast bar and kitchen cabinets... right up until it dawned on him that a more functional kitchen meant I was more relaxed in there and making nicer meals.

[@DanceswithDustBunnies]

Nine times out of ten if I get rid of something I was keeping because it “might be useful,’ a week later I need it.

[@whiteserpent6753]

While I also find this to be true, I have also found that I am unable to find items I still have that were kept because they were useful because I can’t figure out where my husband put them. And he never remembers- just that he put them somewhere safe. There is nothing so frustrating as buying a replacement for an item you know you have because you’ve spent a week searching for it, can’t find it, and actually need it to move a project forward.

[@whiteserpent6753]

My husband, if this isn’t clear, is one of those “We’ll get rid of things as a giant project that we do all at once” types, because God forbid we get rid of something we might want later. Drives me nuts.

[@Smithpolly]

There's a good chance that if you hadn't got rid of it a week ago, it wouldn't have occurred to you that you have it or to use it. 9

[@doylejodi7502]

Honestly, I love that when I suddenly need something; even if rarely, I find it in my house. Otherwise, I would have to go out and buy the item I would have thrown away. I hang on to things partly because I grew up with little money. 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@xandraxandra1437]

+1

[@lynn858]

Me too. I'm definitely a hoarder. The issue becomes when you know you have something that will fulfill that need, but you can't find it, even after a few days. Sometimes my "what logic was I using when I put it somewhere?" just fails me.

[@scott17601]

I agree - The idea of getting rid of useful things if you won't likely use it soon 100% comes from a place of privilege, if you can afford to just replace an item if it's needed then sure let it go, but many in this world don't have this luxury.

[@meh5069]

@@scott17601the issue with that mindset is most people dont actually end up using or needing most items. And a LOT of people have sides so cluttered that they can’t find what they need anyways. But different strokes.

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

I grew up without full control of my own space (sibling would steal or destroy my stuff, parent would indiscriminantly throw my stuff in the garbage if it wasn't neat enough for their standards, which were highly variable and not well communicated) which I think contributes to my hoarder tendencies, compounded by being low-income as well as having had "keep it" reinforced so many times by "ok I haven't used this in a month/year/decade, I can get rid of it" then needing it 2 weeks after I got rid of it... am also a crafter so a lot of it IS useful and DOES get used... add to that the pathological hate of disposable society and seeing useful stuff go to landfills when I clean apartments between tenants and people leave some surprising things behind... so I accept most of my disaster. My attempt to keep it from getting any worse it is being on a call list for donations pickup, so every month or two I am reminded to donate a few boxes or bags of stuff I don't need, won't miss or can't use. Add a yearly trip to drop off dead electronics at the recycling depot, and it's at least not getting worse. I'm starting to see the wisdom of the 20/20 concept though (if you can replace it in twenty minutes for twenty dollars, pitch it) and will start taking that into consideration when decluttering now that I'm in a position where I actually HAVE that $20.

[@1_viewer]

I don’t sell my items but when they are of researched value I put a sticky note on them so the place I donate them to can keep it in mind and possibly get more for it. It helps me let go of things that are not precious to me. I release them to the universe and wish them to be discovered by someone who appreciates them.

[@helen1859]

I've given up selling items too, no matter their value. I donate all stuff to a local charity shop. It's reassuring to read your message and realise I'm not alone in not selling items. I've found it makes decluttering easier and faster this way.

[@juliaangulo5922]

I love that! “release them into the universe and wish them to be discovered by someone who appreciates them” - really that’s all I want! Not money, I just want the things I once loved so dearly to find a new home.. I think I will start using this mentality, thank you!

[@Objet_Dart]

Favorite saying: If you are storing a "useful" item that you don't use, then no one else can use it, either.

[@PreferredMethods]

I love this. Stitching up the old pillows, gathering up the cooking accessories, and giving them to Goodwill feels so good. Only stuff that’s still nice, of course! That kind of thrift was such a blessing to me when I was younger. Someone else needs these things, now!

[@dorotheekramerlutz111]

❤

[@Livingthefreelife]

I love this!!! I’m going to remind myself of this quote next time I’m decluttering, thank you!!

[@cassieoz1702]

I don't agree. My ability to pass on very usable stuff is limited by lack of access to agencies to pass it to. We can't thrift any electrical goods here and I live in a rural area so using sale/swap websites is impossible

[@LS-ei7xk]

@@cassieoz1702 My obstacle was in lifting things and getting to such places, as I don't have a car. This went on for years. Finally, I got two people to help. So I know what you mean! However, it is an ongoing problem... my apt. manager wants me to de-clutter more, but I'm limited in what I can do. I already got rid of 200 books (when I had help), and some electrical items. But I don't know about the future, and as I'm between sizes, the clothes will have to wait. And as I have many worries right now, my solution is to take one thing at a time, and to be "minimalist" in how I clutter my thoughts. My emotional health comes first. Peace.

[@TheBroccoliFiles]

The more minimalist you are, the fewer "containers" you need. I decluttered an entire spare room of sewing shit to 3 plastic shoeboxes. I still sew up a storm, it didn't hamper my creativity at all. But now I can find what I need right away!

[@88Gemma]

The thing is that „if you have not used something for a year, it can go“ only applies to stable people. I had to rebuy so many stuff because i got rid of things i needed again three years later and i was very annoyed every time 😅

[@LauraLaurent86]

Anyone else feeling guilty for throwing stuff out because your parents would not approve? I can hear my mum judging (in my head) for getting rid of perfectly good stuff. 🙈 Thank you for this video, I think it’s really helpful to resolve resistance to start.

[@susangriner6736]

Number 12 is the one I am struggling with right now. I really appreciate the reminder that the money was wasted when I bought it, not when I declutter it

[@dollieschuster9106]

Sometimes people forget they gave you something. I actually kept a set of China that I almost never used until I discovered the person that gave it to me didn't remember they gave it to me.

[@VMM34]

Good point 👍 And also, the gifts we gave to other people....................they don't have them anymore! They gave them away! So we can give things away too!

[@Geoplanetjane]

One of the key and earliest lessons in the Montessori education is that once children are finished working with (playing) they put them back where they go. With each item going back to where it belongs.

[@jluvsbooks2020]

My minimalism journey is bit different. I have decluttered a lot but for some items I plan to do this. For instance, my instapot. I use one every two weeks and the meals I cook in it, I could really cook in my other cookware. Well guess what, it broke. It’s in the trash and I will not be replacing it. I plan to do this continuously until I’m down to the basics. So my journey will continue through the years.

[@Jessica-ul6me]

I moved into my mom and brother in laws hoard to declutter and take care of them ( dementia and mental illness). It's been 6 months but breaking it down into smaller pieces and projects has definitely helped. They haven't let anything go since the 50s so this house was jam packed! I'm going to try some more of these tips ❤

[@avanellehansen4525]

Bless you. That's a tough job.

[@terryruiz7417]

Good advice. I discovered Dana.K. White some time ago, a huge help! Plus, I'm dealing with my parents' home after the death of my dad. Mom sees items worth far more than they are. I've packed up collections and they reside in my basement, to be donated or sold as part of her estate. Much is simply not worth my time to sell, but best way to deal with a 96 year old whose requests can be overwhelming, unrealistic. Very difficult situation.

[@SusuWorld-dy3pq]

I'm right there with you. Instead of enjoying my own retirement, I have to deal with my 95 year old father's home that's filled with masses of stuff.

[@madisonmccann1221]

I recently went into my massive make up collection, ready to organize it. I figured I'd get it all sorted, wipe out the make up cabinet drawers, then I'd have a better idea of what organizational products I'll need. Ended up eliminating so much never-used make up that I didn't need organizers at all lol

[@lazygardens]

I had it happen with a laundry room cabinet. By the time I got rid of the empties and unusable products, cleaners for things I didn't have (like marble polish), and things that I didn't want to use ... it had ROOM! Then we added some hooks and a shelf and we had LOTS OF ROOM.

[@simply.clutterfree]

I believe it was Ryan Nicodemus of The Minimalists who recently said, "You don't win with storage bins!" ....you can't buy your way to a decluttered and organized home and you can't organize clutter...I've recently had to just laugh at my past self as I've decluttered countless empty bins. She thought she was doing the right thing showing up to a clutter fight with bins. Lol. ❤

[@AtoZenLife]

I’m glad you found the right direction to head in 😉

[@simply.clutterfree]

@@AtoZenLife so many empty storage bins Marissa! 😂❤️

[@carolravie]

We just bought a home and we're still in that chaos where some pieces of furniture are missing and many items don't have their place yet. Yesterday, as I tried to organise a bit, the thought of buying some "just-in-case" containers crossed my mind, but I quickly let it go. I will not be wasting space and money. If I need something, I'll deal with it when that time comes, and this also makes me less anxious.

[@simply.clutterfree]

@@carolravie good idea!

[@JamieM470]

That's me---I showed up to my clutter fight with bins 🤷‍♀ Now that I've gotten rid of so much, I have so many empty bins! I donated a lot of them, but I kept my favorites, and I'm struggling with this right now. I'm not using them. They're not adding value to my life. But I can't bring myself to get rid of them. 😞

[@homehelpheart7440]

Your mention of KonMari taking everything out at once made me think of Marie kondos Netflix series. I remember her telling the client to get every single thing out of the closet and put it on the bed. Just SEEING IT HAPPEN made me anxious. I have struggled with clutter for many many years and I have also been one of those people who have pulled apart a whole bunch of stuff thinking you're going to get it done in one day and then you go take a break for lunch and you never go back to it and next thing you know, you can hardly get to the bathroom because everything is laying out on the floor in the hall. Thankfully, I don't do that anymore. Unfortunately, I am now 71, walk with a cane and can't stand for long periods, and I have no choice but to break it down into small groups for decluttering. I've been taking an online decluttering course all year and it is definitely helped. When people come into the dedicated Facebook group and say what do I do help! I tell them pick one square foot. On a counter, on a floor, whatever. Declutter that one square foot. Then clean it and then put back what remains in an organized fashion. It seems to help them understand that it doesn't all have to be done in one day. I'm so glad you mentioned that in your list of decluttering falsehoods! Thanks for this video!

[@AtoZenLife]

I remember in the empty nester episode with Ron and Wendy, the beds were piled SO HIGH! Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and experiences 🙏

[@susie9893]

Totally on board with your idea to have short declutter sessions. Decluttering can be emotionally draining (and for some ppl more than others) so it's good to set small achievable goals. Need to feel like you're winning in order to build momentum

[@janbolton7305]

I'm doing this today. I find long lists overwhelming and nothing gets done. So today I'll sort just 50 things. Either to donate to charity or take to the tip.

[@jenpisano5954]

It’s taken me YEARS to achieve my minimal lifestyle and I’m STILL working on it - I STILL struggle letting go of some things. But our home and life feels SO MUCH BETTER with all the stuff gone! We still have STUFF just not as much as we used to! 🥰🥰🥰

[@meggarstang6761]

Great tips! In my clan, I’m the go-to person for help with decluttering. I teach kids how to assess a mess and deal with it one item at a time. We make it a game. This summer, everyone will be getting their own room, so we are cleaning shared rooms. Kids get to make decisions and they do the bulk of the work. I tell them that clutter is a physical burden. The secret to an orderly room is to prioritize their most prized toys, designate a place for each like item, and take a few minutes before bed every night to reset their space. We have completed the initial decluttering and grouped everyone’s stuff in one area. Max needs more shelving for books, Lego creation displays, and his science projects so his closet will be redesigned to include floor-to-ceiling shelves. Liv is attached to her things and has a hard time letting go. She’s getting the room with the largest closet, but will need to make some hard choices later this summer so the closet doesn’t devolve into a junk pit. She is a bookworm and will need a big bookcase. Ava is chill and had no problem letting go of her unnecessary stuff. She will need furniture for her friends to visit. Our spaces support how each kid lives, not vice versa. I lead their efforts this summer because this is what I did in the corporate world before I retired! I was a process designer who solved problems that prevented a business from achieving its goals and objectives.

[@nefertitimontoya]

Firstly, this is so awesome!!! Love that kind of parenting that provides good habits and tools. Second, a process designer sounds very cool!!!

[@janethunt4037]

All excellent points. I have decluttered most of my house in 5 minute to an hour long blocks of time over the past year. One advantage of spreading out the time on it is that my brain continues to work out problems while I'm away from the mess.

[@nairbvel]

Marissa, your words about parents setting an example really ring true. My grandparents grew up during the Great Depression. That, coupled with some personality traits, led to every family home being jam-packed with stuff. Some of it apparently *is* actually valuable, while most is not -- but they were of the belief (or at least made sure everyone knew the belief) that it ALL was *very valuable." We're still dealing with the fallout of that mindset today, nearly 4 decades after my last grandparent died. Beware the rabbit hole o, "I need a lot of stuff to show my value and that I'm doing well!"

[@Kate98755]

Currently sifting through my parents home getting ready to sell it, they’ve moved to an independent living facility, we moved only what they needed…so they left a home stuffed with things to minimalist living. I can’t believe the things they’ve saved, old stuff not used in decades. I had already started my decluttering, I have tall bins that i drop items in when i find them or when I’m actively decluttering. It’s allowing me to do this at a good pace but still have time for fun and other chores. We all need to declutter our homes by our mid 60’s-70’s while we’re still young enough to go through the process. Leave a decluttered home for your family when you die.

[@zabmcauley5647]

For #9 the Dana K White method removes the need for decision making which makes it much easier to force motivation. Looking for garbage is much easier to do than decluttering your wardrobe when you have body triggers like so many of us

[@wilhelmina8843]

When on eBay, it’s not what people are selling stuff for, it’s the cost that something actually SOLD for!!!

[@AtoZenLife]

Exactly, you’ve got to toggle the “sold” button to green to check the actual sell price as I demonstrated in the video.

[@annecurtin336]

My favorite Christmas present ever was when my Mom gave me a cruise. It was amazing & I still have very fond memories Forty years later -

[@autumn5852]

I would never have been able to declutter if I hadn’t bought organising shelves etc, it would have just been too overwhelming for me and I would not have started, so some of us need the organisation stuff just to get started and now several years on I’m almost finished 😊

[@AprilThriftArt]

I hear the container comment a lot and I agree. However, I believe that one must first make sure they have the right furniture for their needs first and I don't hear anyone talking about it. For example, instead of have small bookshelves all over the place, you may need a taller one to store your books (if books are important to you). I currently have three small bookshelves and it clutters up my small space a lot....getting rid of the smaller ones and replacing it with a tall decent sized bookshelf would be perfect and better suited for my space. The right furniture for your space and belongings matter a lot when it comes to whether or not something feels or looks cluttered.

[@lauramitchell6725]

Absolutely,and closed ,tall storage.

[@jcmac47]

What works for me when choosing clothing to get rid of, is always taking the clothes from the right end of the rack. Clean clothes go to the left. If I consistently hesitate to wear an item when it shows up at the end of the rack, then it goes. I've gone through my entire closet this way without a lot of effort and nothing gets overlooked. 😄

[@johnvienna3422]

I've read so many decluttering books and watched so many videos, but I've never met this simple technique. Nice one!

[@HerCupOfSIMPLE]

You taught me to get rid of the hardest things in my life.... those things that were putting my life on hold and were holding me down mentally and energy wise. Alot of my anxiety and low esteem came from keeping items that were reminding me how I never get to do what I truly love in life and I'm talking about very simple things like finding time to be present and go for a nature walk with my kids without having to worry about millions of other to dos on my mind. Now, after years of decluttering, I've realized that minimalism to me means that I want to live with the amount of stuff I can handle right now and with the things that help me strive.

[@AtoZenLife]

I love this so much! Thank you for sharing your journey and of course I’m cheering you on as you walk that path. 📣☺️

[@mariacastillo3090]

@HErcupofSIMPLE you just described me minus the kids my daughter’s 34 now. 😊 I’ve bought books to read and never read or started but never finished. I have adult coloring books, crayons. 9:25 calendars to set routines, colored pens to make it pretty and last but not least embroidery items. 🤦‍♀️ Thank you as well Zen to Life.

[@isabellelaval7294]

I loved and needed to hear about taking care of me in the present rather than loading myself down for future me.

[@flohough1870]

#1 really hits home with me right now. Next month we are having our kitchen remodeled so we are starting to pack up the things in our cupboards. It's been interesting looking at some of the items that we have and thinking about the last time some of these items were used. Over the past few years, the way I cook has changed, and a lot of these items are no longer practical and just taking up space. I think that's a huge issue a lot of people have, their lives evolve but their possessions don't.

[@KacieHeartsJesus]

Marissa, when I first watched one of your videos last year, I thought, "Oh no, she's TOO minimalist for me!" and I ran back to my other favorite decluttering channels. But I watched another one of your videos last week, and then another, and another, and I thought, "Okay, I actually LOVE her!" ❤️ I've known for a long time that my clutter and hoarding tendencies are tied to childhood trauma, but your videos are bringing even more clarity to my understanding and I've been able to send even more sentimental items to the donation bin this past week! Keep up the awesome work!

[@AtoZenLife]

Thank you so much for your kind words and glad you’re finding clarity! I’m all about reality-based minimalism and decluttering here, and that’s going to look different for all of us! Hugs and healing to you. ❤️

[@a1waystreet597]

I so agree. Having things was helping avoid the childhood safety I didn’t have. Thank you

[@lindaschultz1000]

I'm new at watching decluttering videos, but ever since the pandemic and my illness I have become one. Your comment caught my eye because I look at Marissa's bare space and I immediately think of that guy who says, "we will own nothing and be happy." That's traumatic to me. Also, I'm really into decorating and her place is so depressing to look at. Is she conditioning people to that mantra that I just discussed or are we really supposed to get rid of all our stuff? Sure, that would make our clutter go away, but who wants to live without stuff?

[@melissakeller2644]

⁠@@a1waystreet597Your insight made me cry for the child I once was. Thank you for helping me appreciate what my clutter represents. I am now safe and have what I need. I am looking forward to freeing myself from my painful past. Thank you.❤

[@melissakeller2644]

@@AtoZenLifeI am so grateful to have found your videos and love your real life approach. It’s going to take me time but 15 minute increments are doable. Thank you!!❤

[@karenrich9092]

If your parents are overloading "the toy box", encourage them to support their activities such as sports, dance or scouting. Many times the scouts in our troop can't afford something, but grandparents can. Donate to their "scout account" for summer camp or equipment and uniforming by sending funds to the account. Money can be mailed, it takes up less room and it can be to pay for memories made at an event that is actually priceless.

[@Awesomemomy]

Since last year there has been a shelf in my neighborhood where everyone can put everything they no longer need/want, but which is still perfectly fine and usable. A "barter rack" so to speak. You can find anything there from china and glassware to small electrical appliances, toys or decorative items... or keep such things there for others to enjoy/use. It's really popular and well used by the whole neighborhood, or people who happen to drive by.

[@teleriferchnyfain]

What a great idea! It’s like the little libraries sprouting up in neighborhoods 🤗

[@tardismole]

Having toys out is not clutter or dirt. It's life. It represents a child's imagination and expression. Children old enough for Lego are also old enough to be putting it away themselves. A lazy parent cleans up after their children. Also, there are items that you have in your home that you should keep, even if you don't use them often. Medical/disability equipment; emergency items; tools; your 72hour evac kit. Think before you declutter.

[@cocamidopropylbetaine]

I kinda disagree with the organization bit. Sometimes when I get a pretty box to put things I like in, it makes it clearer what I want to keep. Does that make sense?

[@annazmudka2967]

I started with decluttering one thing a day. Nothing overwhelming. It gave me time to get used to this. Later it became easier ❤ This also gave me time to use things or get rid of them in responsible way

[@vaderladyl]

We get hung up on the potential usefulness of things rather on the actual usefulness in real time for us. Decluttering shouldn't be rushed, it is not a competition after all

[@danaeleu]

I know this video was posted months ago. I just wanted to say I appreciate all you have to say. I have been slowly slogging my way through 20 or more years of stuff and it is so much easier taking just a bit at a time. At first all I did was land on a spot, (a drawer, a shelf and pile on the floor, etc.) I set a timer and all I focused on was what to get rid of, either as garbage or donation. I began tossing and hauling stuff. I didn’t bother cleaning or even finding permanent places for the stuff I kept. However, after not too long of a time, I was shocked to find it easer to keep areas clean, with so much less effort than it did when I had to navigate around all the extra stuff. And as I emptied out spaces, finding room for the things I kept also became easier. I’ve always felt too overwhelmed to do more than a light pass over my clothes every year. Once I’ve work through most of the house, I hope to go back and get even more ruthless on what I’m keeping. It is almost insane how much happier and lighter everything I do feels.

[@alexayres6812]

I bought a plastic tray to keep my toiletries in, and got rid of anything that didn’t fit in the tray! Two birds with one stone 😊

[@elizabethsydnor5247]

Profound! Perfection is the enemy of progress!!!

[@65marlee]

Love your 20 lies. I just finished decluttering my entire home and it was like a weight being lifted off. I do not miss anything I got rid of and I can spend my time enjoying playing my keyboard and am learning guitar too…Freedom pays off!!!

[@AtoZenLife]

That’s amazing, enjoy your newfound freedom 🙌

[@poodlegirl55]

Downsizing paperwork was my hardest thing. When we moved I put every paper item from every room in a big tote. After we got settled I set up a system in the desk and every evening I would open the tote and fill a little basket and sit and organize that one basket full. I actually started to enjoy it and was almost sad when the bin was empty. That was five years ago and I still only have what is in the desk, no paperwork in any other room.

[@ivana4942]

I have boxes and boxes filled with mail and old school papers from the last 10 or so years. I'm afraid to just throw them out because I'd find very important documents within them. This is such a great idea. It actually sounds relaxing and productive and not overwhelming. I'm going to try this! 😊

[@poodlegirl55]

@@ivana4942 yard by yard life is hard, inch by inch it's a cinch.

[@rdnretiredatlast4918]

I sell some of my unwanted / decluttered items on eBay, but I always check the “sell-through” rate before listing. I look at the number of similar items for sale and compare that number to how many similar items have actually sold. If the sell-through rate isn’t high, I just donate it so I don’t waste my precious time. :)

[@garlicgalore]

We live in a great spot for yardsales, so now we do two big ones a year. It's turned out to be a super nice way to connect with people in the extended neighborhood and even offer up more resources when you learn about this person who loves cats, that household that just moved in, or someone who needs a walking partner. Yardsales are a lot of work and storage, but since we aren't looking to make good money it's turned out to be sonething we look forward to.

[@Bettintx]

I decluttered both our 2 car garages. I mean I really decluttered! I had 3 horse trailers of junk in my husbands garage. It is detached and I had been in it for 3 years. I will have to check from time to time to see that he doesn’t clutter it up again. I also through away junk in my garage. I had a new surface put on the for bought new cabinet. I am happy to say the cabinets aren’t even full. Now I’m working on the house but it isn’t as bad as the garages were.

[@lauramitchell6725]

Rachel: I also have two big yard sales every year. If anyone wants to join me,they can sell their own stuff and if not I’ll sell their stuff and keep the money.( like if they were just going to give it to Goodwill) I price everything reasonably and have it on Friday and Saturday,then again the following Friday and Saturday but on the second Saturday,EVERYTHING is half price. What I lose in my pricing is more than made up in the amount I sell on the final day. (Also tells me what things were actually worth 😂) I always make about $1000.00 during the four days and donate what’s left to my Humane Society Thrift Shop,which is two to three mini van loads. They love it because everything is clean ,organized and priced so they can take a bag of purses and put them right on the shelves. This also organically includes two garage cleanings so we can always have both cars in there all year long. My favorite time is the week in between sales because all the hard work is done and still set up,so I take that time to go through more of my own minutiae like makeup and jewelry since I have the time and energy to price and arrange them appropriately. This is my success story for the last thirty years.🙌🏻. Last side benefit,since I only shop second hand,I have no trouble decluttering because I know I’ll sell it within six months and probably break even or even make a profit! ( the first weekend IS about making money for all of my hard work since I can’t work steady anymore,but the second weekend is about getting rid of it!) A favorite tip for large garage sales is,set up a couple of waterproof tables outside from the start and put pots and pans,Tupperware,dishes,plastic toys,garden stuff, etc. (upside down) That way ,if it rains,it will get wet but it won’t get ruined! Nothing breaks my heart more than when it starts raining while I’m shopping at a sale and that stuff is in their garage but all of their books and puzzles are turning to garbage outside. 😖😵‍💫😫

[@judysbakeryandtestkitchen1654]

I am one of those people that organized before decluttering. Now I have a bunch of shelves and containers I don't need. After several years, I declutter at least 1 item per day. Lots of papers to declutter! I have gotten rid of 1500 items so far this year.

[@margal3120]

Teaching kids to put away their stuff is super helpful and a good life lesson

[@cindynorris5983]

My problem with clothes is, I know the money is already gone. I got that, but I feel like like if I wear the item x number more times then I will not be guilty of wasting money. I mean, I will have gotten my money’s worth out of it. I wish I could cure this.

[@Mjao519]

Im not an english speaker but I will try to answer. Think of it the same way big companies handles computers and technology. Every company look at their assets in value per longivity. Computers loose value as soon as the are bought cause there is always a new cheap one for someone else to buy. Computers age fast. I see clothes the same way. If it something I enjoy wearing I wear til it falls apart. Otherwise it takes up more space than its worth.

[@marianmeletlidiscrap]

Let's say you are keeping the clothing item. Are you ACTUALLY going to wear it x number more times, or is it going to sit in your closet? It doesn't matter if you keep it if you're not going to wear it at all. It's only going to make you feel more guilty about NOT wearing it

[@djamila2035]

I love the numer 2 I bought so many baskets to organise my clutter and now that I sm declittering I am selling all these bakets and I wonder how I bought all thst staff😊

[@annmuse5718]

From your #5 step: "Analysis Paralysis - where I wasn't taking any action, and instead just thinking and overthinking". Great description in one sentence! Thank you.

[@shayincolorado5214]

another great lesson... BEFORE buying something, think WHERE would this item live at IN my home? Outstanding idea!!!!!

[@intergalacticem8548]

Agree on all of this EXCEPT the bit about clothes hangers. I replaced ALL my mismatched hangers with strong thin metal hangers and a few dozen thin velvet hangers - best closet investment EVER. I have doubled space on my clothes rail and hangers don't get tangled anymore.

[@mooreillustration]

Number 20 causes me stress sometimes. It feel so good decluttering things I legitimately don't need/want anymore but I sometimes get hung up on the idea that I love too many beautiful tapestries or hang too many paintings to ever be a minimalist. I LOVE color. I LOVE texture. But it makes for a very "busy" looking space. I'm working on throwing out the idea that I need to give up the aesthetic I love in order to have an orderly, functional space.

[@michelecraig9658]

I know exactly what you mean. Sometimes I just take everything off the walls or put things away somewhere for a while and then I find that some of them I want to keep and some I get rid of. I focus on how I feel in the space. This has been hard for me emotionally, but I see it as trying to achieve how I feel when in the room. I could never live in a house that looks like A to Zen's although I enjoy being in spaces like that, because I need a little more curves, natural irregular objects, etc. However the discovery of what actually feeds your soul is part of the whole process!!

[@vickithornley5056]

Keep and enjoy the things you love. 🌻❤️

[@ArtingFromScratch]

🎉big win for me even though it'll seem silly to those who don't clutter for grief🎉 My dad died very suddenly 15yr ago and I was devastated today when I was getting dad's my drawing he made me matted and framed I had to trim the edges off to fix it to be size of frame And guy was like "do u wanna keep the edges?" And I actually said no. That's big progress. I dont need blank scrap paper just cuz it was attached to something dad touched anymore I feel proud

[@AtoZenLife]

This is HUGE! My sentimental heart is swelling with understanding and pride. 💪❤️

[@cksaporta]

I'm changing over from Winter to spring and summer clothes and finding clothes that I didn't wear last year. I'm getting rid of them 1. I'm not going to wear it this year, let's be real. 2. It's better for thrift stores to receive stuff in the season then after the season.

[@dedemaz3349]

True they don't have place to store out of season clothes either. Probably just discard them.

[@leticiatoraci9855]

I never pull out everything because it would take too long to organize it again. Decluttering is an ongoing process for me like laundry, this is a good way to do that without getting overwhelmed.

[@lenoraberendt750]

Your kids should clean up their own clutter. It’s a teachable moment.

[@jenniferakes8224]

I started downsizing and decluttering about 7 years ago. Babysteps towards saving my sanity. I keep a box next to my front door for donations. Things I put on but do not fit or makes me look or feel like a troll that hides under a hill. Shoes what don't fit or jeans that cut off my circulation. Books I have read but didn't love, etc.... So now its simple use it or lose it. This is an ongoing process If one thing comes in one thing goes out. Replace something get rid of the reason I needed a new one. Have also learned my old wardrobe was for a completely different person and along the path learned I didn't need many of the items I have been holding onto for a rainy day (Live the life you enjoy not the life you dream about). Still have a few items I have that I want to get rid of but cannot due thinking about how expensive it will be to replace it but never use. But finally came to the conclusion it was serving no purpose in my in this moment life. If I want it again, thought about the joy and fun of looking for new and improved version verses storing an item I haven't touched in years. Life changes our styles change, our hobbies change or evolve. Time to get rid of the things that are tying us down and bringing us down because clutter affects our mental status and our moods.

[@patdennis2586]

Dana K. White’s “No Mess” decluttering system is amazing! You’ll make progress and only progress with her system.

[@MyFocusVaries]

Her system works great when I get my husband and son to pitch in. My son is great when given a specific task.

[@ca11iope]

Yes! Love her. And no need for a clutter basket (aka eyesore)

[@cmorrison5466]

I kept boxes of stuff in the attic for when my kids moved out and would one day "need them". Twenty years later, they didn't want or need any of it. I started photographing and group texting "Do you want this?" and pretty much everything was a "no". So I've spent several months pulling it out and getting rid of it. I've taken vanloads of stuff to friends, recyling and the dump. I told my kids I needed to do this while I had my health intact because one day I wouldn't. They'll thank me later.

[@Mjao519]

Hear hear!

[@user.47221]

I have been going from a semi-hoarder to a functioner. Its been like 5-6 months since i started the process, i have a small flat in which i need to create a comfy living space (from a total mess, with lots of repair and anti-damp needs) and a workshop room with all the products needed for a small online business. Its been a tough toughhh journey because i only have my sister with me in this process and we also have two dogs to take care of at home. Believe me, its crazy and so tiring to deal with a ten years of procastination but when you set your mind to it, there's no turning back. You need to focus focus focus. You need to be very reasonable in decision making process and dont give up after your resting periods. I also have a massive trick in this journey; whenever i feel like giving up and giving in, i binge watch some hoarders episodes and find the necessary motivation this way :) nobody wants to end up in a messed up home when they are older and left with less n less energy and health. Summary : you can do it no matter what! Just keep going!

[@lauramitchell6725]

OMG,hoarder shows are the BEST motivation!( cautionary tale)😬

[@sharvo6]

They creep me out and make my skin crawl, it's my worst nightmare, but I could end up there if not diligent.

[@mortiscia]

I need to watch this on a loop until my home is at least close to clutter free!

[@laurelchee8526]

Marissa, I have been watching you for a long time, and this is one of your best videos. It’s good for people new to this and those of us who need reminders to bust through our mental hurdles and keep making progress! Thank you!

[@ritaborde1657]

The most important thing I learned from all the Masters of decluttering ist that everything must have its own place to be. Then, and only then it becomes possible to KEEP your home tidy and nice in order😊. Thanks for sharing your very good ideas😍

[@kerrymartin7557]

What do you do if your spouse is absolutely resistant to that concept???

[@amandaslough125]

​@@kerrymartin75575TH That's when you implement a trick learned from studying those with adhd. You don't create an organization system and expect everyone to conform to it. You organize a system based on your habitual needs. If everyone already dumps their keys on a side table, then get a bowl for the side table and the keys will naturally go into the bowl.

[@AW-zv3es]

#12 needs to be pinned to all videos. That is soooo important. Digital decluttering for files, email, and pictures is also important. We always forget this one.

[@elena_a-2023]

I tried the capsule wardrobe this winter and it has been a success. I have enough items for the summer so I don’t think I am going to purchase extra clothing (I just need one pair of shoes). I have the philosophy of one thing comes in, one needs to go. It works well for me.

[@nogames8982]

I have my own version of the clutter bucket. It's just a cardboard box stuffed in a corner. But any time I come across something that I want to donate I throw it in the box. When the box is full, I take it to Goodwill or wherever. It has been very effective.

[@asexualatheist3504]

My minimal journey depends on whether I used something for the past six months. I finally got to the point to pass on Fiesta coffee mugs that I no longer use. Thanks for your encouragement.

[@jessicasheskey1605]

Ugh, all of these tips are saving me! ADHD has made organizing and decluttering an impossible task. All of your videos are changing my life.

[@outlandishmuch]

I love Marie Condo, like she is a bright shining example of how beneficial a life without clutter can be for your peace of mind. She seems really happy. I cant do her decluttering method though with the piles of stuff on the floor. Just way too time consuming and messy. I more so agree with others who declutter small amounts at a time such as decluttering and organizing one drawer or box at a time. ❤

[@dokidokidokidokidoki]

i have a lot of clothes because my style changes so much. i have a wardrobe for each aesthetic and i vascilate between them.

[@LTBEAR417]

Love your 20 lies. Thank you so much. This is my 3rd year going through 50 years of clutter!

[@runningfromabear8354]

I didn't use to have problems with clutter until my 12 yo son died. I'm struggling with throwing anything out for 2 years now since his death. Each time I manage to throw something out that I connect with him, I'm grieving all over again. Almost everything we have in this house is connected from the moment he was conceived, through his birth, life, cancer diagnosis and death. Everything is a memory.

[@sonjamalter9388]

❤

[@jamiemueller1881]

So incredibly sorry for your loss. It's unimaginable. You get to do whatever you need and want to feel better. If holding those possessions brings relief, please do keep them. Some things are too precious to part with and there's no law that says you have to let go of them. Again, condolences about your son.

[@kerrymartin7557]

I'm so sorry about the loss of your son. There is definitely a connection between loss and getting rid of things. It compounds the grief.😢 Be gentle with yourself.💜

[@burns_o_matic]

#14 isn't always a lie; I can't even count how many times I've gotten rid of something because I haven't used it recently, and then not long later end up rebuying it when an instance comes up that I need said item.

[@username00009]

The nice thing is that we can oftentimes make do without the item if we’re willing to be more creative. E.g., use a spoon instead of an ice cream scoop. I like the 20/20 rule from The Minimalists to help me let go of those “just in case” items - if I can replace the unused item for $20 or less and with less than 20 minutes of effort, then I’m letting it go.

[@piratefemme6080]

It depends on "recently" - I kmow if I haven't used something in 2 years, I'm never going to use it enough to warrant owning one. Borrowing one from a friend? Sure. Or subbing out with something else? Absolutely. Will I wish I had it? Yeah, for five minutes once every 2 years. That isn't enough for me to keep it.

[@Metqa]

@@username00009 yeah, a spoon is a spoon, but some things are more ... specialized, and I don't want to go out and buy a new ice cream maker every 6months when I feel the urge to make sherbet. It can sit on the shelf for a long while and still be useful. and I'm not gonna entertain the idea of Mason jar ice cream. Chocolate flavored butter once was enough to encourage me to get the RIGHT tool for the RIGHT job and Appreciate it for what it is. I think it's good to have a place to Put rarely used items, and KNOW that they are there. A problem I come across is NOT being able to find something and NOT having a suitable substitute and buying another one. So, it's still part of decluttering to KNOW what you have in stead of always getting RID of what you have. and once I KNOW I have it and still haven't used it, then it can go to that box of things to maybe donate and it if doesn't make it out of that box, it was likely not meant to be mine anymore anyway.

[@annayakuhana3007]

Yes exactly! It happens far too often for this to be considered a lie. It's not about how easy it is to get another of the same item, it's about not wasting the original item.

[@kaceykelly7222]

This really is incredibly valuable advice for millions of people struggling with clutter/excess. You are among the best podcasters on this subject. Thank you!

[@AtoZenLife]

Thanks so much 😘

[@Just.Julie.]

LOVE the clutter bucket! You just gave me the solution I needed - thank you :) Funny how something so simple can inspire and make it work in your mind.

[@annacorts8609]

👍Hi, thanks for your great advice. Another helpful one, is to start teaching our kids to put away their own toys, specially, before dropping one and wanting to start playing with another. Also to teach them to clean up after themselves, gently guiding their hands and showing them what has to be done with love and playful spirit. They will grow to be independent and also to help and respect mom, because the chores around the house are a family business. Thanks.

[@Joshua-qs3rh]

I have ADHD and I find the way you write out the 20 points and explain them easy to understand and useful. Thank you! 😊

[@biscuithead2243]

I’m starting a petition that we all start calling our clutter buckets “cluckets “

[@AtoZenLife]

Epic! I had a follower who called it a “crap basket” and I like that a lot, too. 😌

[@wendyrosenthal2324]

Yes girl awesome idea

[@jacquelineclauson4891]

Mines now a clucket yay 🤓

[@amylynn9034]

Love it!

[@susie9893]

😂

[@mobrown3876]

I need your voice in my ear, when facing my clutter, what you shared in this video is so freaking relevant! I have said almost every word in my excuses for keeping stuff. My ah-ha moment was having a garage sale, what I thought was valuable stuff was ignored and items I felt were the next best thing to trash got bought🥴 So I am reevaluating a lot of stuff and my local charities and share sheds are getting stuff from me

[@earthmamma85]

I’ve decluttered over and over. It just doesn’t work for me… my husband is not onboard with getting rid of things like I am. He very much holds onto everything and buys more things. I’m overwhelmed by stuff… it’s hard to get my kids into this when my husband isn’t doing it.

[@jf8200]

Sounds like emotional baggage--he may benefit from therapy.

[@julianaylor4351]

Rethink why you are letting him buy, if that's any help. Also take a look at how he store stuff and what he is actually storing. Maybe put his stuff in a spare area and he might get it, if not then something is upsetting him.

[@cindysmith9213]

Why didn't the kids put the stuff up? Yes even as toddlers we were told to pick or stuff up. Mom expected us to be responsible.

[@TLM2468]

Not only should you be a good role model you should have them clean up their own mess. Just a couple of days ago I learned that I have done a good job teaching my children that because my 4 year old came to me with a toy and said she and her younger sister don't play with anymore so she wants to donate it. That made me so happy.

[@strangastrigo]

14 is what gets me. Not because of a potential future use but how often ignoring that and tossing something leads to regret. Usually within 2 weeks of throwing something out either I need it or someone else does. I've tested it. Usually about a week. I've tested this periodically over the last 20 years and it's pretty (inconveniently) consistent. It's hard to fight the mentality when it's validated as much as it is.

[@kerrymartin7557]

It is like when I misplace something. I drag my feet on replacing it. Because *literally* every time I replace it, I will find the misplaced item immediately after purchasing the new one.

[@jessbutterfly9801]

All I could think about the whole time was how much I wanted to put artwork on your walls. It’s certainly nice to be D cluttered and have space and freedom movement, but there’s also a difference between a house being a house and a house being a home.

[@PongoTheMango]

I wanted to watched the whole video before I started commenting somthing negative, because I knew if the video was "bait" or simply outrages, I would probably be angry and I didnt want that 😅 But everything you said was so wise and true I loved it and helped me think diffrently about my decluttering journey. But as someone with ADHD sometimes the motivation part is a bigfactor.

[@eagleswing865]

Re #6, YES, overwhelm and small (or bigger?) children in the home is NOT compatible with taking "everything" out in one area or category at a time, sometimes not even a whole drawer for me. It often ends up in a bigger mess and I lose the progress I'd made.