Top Decluttering Regrets & what we'd do differently

[@PrincessofErised]

Aspiring Minimalist for a while now without too much fanfare, then noticed my hubby showing signs of being on board. I actually saw him, completely unprompted, throw a worn-out sock into the garbage, not on the floor, not into the sock cubby, but in the garbage. The heavens parted, let me say. lol

[@ZZ-su8ph]

😏

[@cyoungledesma]

And the choir of angels sang alleluia!!

[@LOMBARDSF]

LOLOLOLOLOL

[@LOMBARDSF]

And inspired here. 👍🏽🤞🏼💪🏾

[@katemolly100]

😂

[@williamsmith4899]

The way I decluttered cleaning supplies; last year I decided to not buy any new cleaning supplies until I used all that I had in each category - I spent almost no money on cleaning supplies last year as I used down the inventory. So, when I used up 3 various bottles of spray cleaner, I replaced them with only the one spray cleaner that I really like - I used this process with all the supplies I had. Now I have a very small, curated amount of cleaning supplies - I have only what I really need and only the few products I love. I will never buy extra supplies again.

[@NLY1WAY4U]

I agree with the using up philosophy. Maybe some are not my favs, but still an be used. I do not mind storing the stuff I will use up. It is the stuff I do not use that needs to go! And there seems to be quite a bit of that! Still decluttering!!!

[@xraytilley]

I’ve done this too…. When I moved and had to pack up things… I realized how many cleaning supplies I had. It was ridiculous.

[@andreas.5584]

I’m working on that now also. I had every type of cleaner under every cabinet. It seemed dumb to have so many bottles of the same thing. My husband said that growing up, he only had cleaners under the kitchen sink. So the bathroom sink cabinets weren’t cluttered. It does make it easier to truly know when you are out of something instead of assuming you have more in other locations in the house. That’s my goal this year. I love throwing away an empty cleaning bottle now.

[@indianne9781]

I look at all of the cleaning products I have and I think that with all this, my house should be spotless. It is not.

[@brendamaun5455]

My husband loves to buy cleaning supplies. We're planning a yard sale in the spring and I'd like to take them all and just mark the partial bottles as "free" and let people have them.

[@brendajennings5438]

Years ago I made a comment to a friend about regretting something. She said, "I don't regret anything. We make decisions with the knowledge and information we have at the time. Given that same info and knowledge, you would probably make the same choice again, so why regret it? It's a waste of time. The decision was made with good intent, and can't be changed. Why waste time regretting something you can no longer change?" It felt like a slap in the forehead! It's so true...today when I catch myself starting to "regret" a decision, I ask myself...Given the same info. I had at the time, what would I do? Helps me just let it go and move on!

[@LightnessofJoy]

Thank you sharing this! It’s helping me

[@deenahaines200]

This is excellent! So glad you shared❤️

[@nealiecruz2532]

Oh my gosh So True!!!!

[@justafan3888]

This is wonderful. Thank you

[@pcatMe]

Excellent insight, ty!

[@juliekoontz8698]

Between the three of you and Sophia from My Great Challenge inspiring me to declutter my home, I am now working on the third time of filling up my spare room with things to donate. This room also acts as my “quarantine “ area since I can’t make trip after trip to get rid of my stuff. Once I have gone through my entire house and bagged up items I schedule a pick up. So far I have gotten rid of 80 bags/boxes of things other people can enjoy and I don’t have to manage any longer. You all are so inspiring to me and I appreciate you more than I could ever say!! ☺️

[@angeleahmacdonnell7750]

Wow!! Good for you !! That’s amazing!

[@marilynpeppers1356]

🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@jwbuck79]

Awesome! I love my great challenge channel (sophia)

[@shandadevore3874]

I don't have ADHD, but I totally have employed my kids as runners. It makes a huge difference.

[@beccismith4454]

Oh my goodness, wow! Congratulations! And that helps me put things into perspective… I think if I filled 80 bags or boxes, my place would be all packed up and some of them empty! So there’s actually no excuse for my messy look…?! lol There are really so many factors! Maybe I haven’t gotten down to my clutter threshold yet… 😃✨

[@jaambjd]

Dawn=keeps me going with decluttering everyday ☀️🌙 Dana=has the information I resonate with the most 📦👚 Cas=brings the energy baby! 😂🌪

[@katemolly100]

❤

[@hlu777]

"The messist homes have the most cleaning supplies" why? "because we're trying to BUY our way out of the problem"😳🤯 Wow! Well I needed to hear that today. That's why I love when the 3 of you get together. You are all experts, but some serious mind blowing life truths come out of these videos. Thank you ladies💗

[@sweetsanddandy8639]

I'd bet those that exercise the least/need it the most, probably buy the most exercise gadgets too. Instead of just going for a walk, we try to buy a magic solution. 😕

[@ImLunaShesZeta]

That makes sense why my sister keeps buying cleaning supplies for our shared household. I do my chores, but doesn't do hers.

[@natalies5818]

"Buying our way out of our problem" 🤯 what a good concept!! Wow!!

[@karenwilliams705]

You have been in my house when I wasn't home? So true, I am guilty

[@hlu777]

@@karenwilliams705 🤣🤣 Yeah, this definitely shed a whole new light on some of my purchasing decisions.

[@tinabailey1791]

My funniest decluttering story surrounds a thick plaid patchwork poncho with a heavy knitted turtle neck collar. A neighbour had given it to my kids to use. It hung around for a couple of years until I gave it to a local church for their monthly flea market. Fast forward a year or so, our family showed up at a friend's for Christmas. What did I see when we walked into their living room? The same poncho spread out around the bottom of their Christmas tree.

[@kathysheeran6589]

That’s a funny story. Lol

[@Godblessed2]

That’s funny

[@micheleanhoury518]

Clever & Funny!! Love the “slice of Life” story of that poncho!!

[@susanmead2219]

That's rich!

[@kayelle8005]

The tales of the travelling plaid poncho 😆

[@heidibonjour]

"I would rather live with regret that clutter! " quoting Dana! My favourite line from this video : thank you for this video!

[@marilynndesilva7620]

All my regrets have to do with finding things that were damaged (moth, mildew, breakage, etc.) because they were hidden from sight behind or under other stuff, or food that spoiled at the back of the fridge or cupboard. I can't even remember most of the things I donated or tossed. I have more than I need of anything you can name, so I just don't miss any of it and am happy to be able to easily SEE and properly CARE for what I do have.

[@bizzlemcsmiles]

I remember my first realisation that something needed to change was that I held onto a keyring that I LOVED as a kid, but because I loved it so much I didn't want to use it. I literally got to my early 20s and found it in my things and it was damaged, I was still able to use it for a little bit but then it completely snapped. I felt so sad that I never was able to enjoy it... Instead it sat in a pile of my things for years being underappreciated. I decided after that that I'm actually going to enjoy using the things I am gifted, if they break while I'm using them - well at least I got to enjoy them!

[@brittanykirkpatrick3616]

We have begged Christmas after Christmas for certain family members to understand that we have limited space in our house for living, let alone the hoards of stuff. It has caused problems. We finally had to realize that these were not our problems...they were just symptoms. The joy of the gift was in the purchase for those people and had little to do with whether we would need or enjoy the items. My aunt joked at our daughter's baby shower (after having 3 boys) that she had so many clothes in 3-6 month size that we could go to church every day of the week and still not be able to wear them all. And I'm a very natural, organic earthy kind of person who barely even dresses her babies at first, let alone dresses them in fussy frills and frocks! I selected the practical things that we actually could use, plus one of the fancy dresses I liked, and decided to return the rest to apply the credit to something we still needed. I did so quietly, but the giver found out (or assumed correctly) and used it as fuel for arguments for the following year. As you might expect, there is toxicity in this relationship that has little to do with gifts. Another example was a big Imaginex playset for one boy's birthday. What that boy really wanted and needed was a bike, so my husband explained that we exchanged that playset toward a bike and made sure our son knew that it was largely from them. They were still pissed. The giver has a trend of looking for the biggest, most expensive gift as a means of competing with my large family who knows our children better and tends to give more personal gifts. My family is better off but has always spent very modestly on presents. That insecurity and competitiveness have nothing to do with us. At the end of the day, we cannot control other people's reactions or spending. We express our gratitude and then try to employ that gift in a way that perhaps isn't what the giver intended, but aligns better with our lifestyle. I don't want to be obligated to things I don't love and don't serve us just because someone else decided on something for me or mine. The conflicts we experienced would've occurred regardless of our returning or decluttering the gifts because the issue is deeper than that. We don't have any regrets about curating our lives in a way that aligns with the life we've chosen.

[@flors8161]

I hear you! We had similar struggles for at least 5 years with some family members. They say it’s their love language to buy things for people. However, so many signs tell me it’s more of an impulse buy- need to please and be loved for what they do, than truly showing their love this way. Nevertheless, I am thankful after many tears and conversations things have improved. I took, also, me not being afraid of saying no and being firm after something was purchased that we had previously discussed we did not need or want. I hope and pray your situation improved as ours did. It’s an unnecessary struggle.

[@grutarg2938]

Sometimes those folks can be redirected to shopping for a charity or toy drive - that way they get all the fun of shopping, and the toys go to someone who can really use them. Possibly you can even say that you would love if they made a donation in your name.

[@mffmoniz2948]

In my family it's easier now. We aknowledge that the person can change if they want to. Every gift is given with a ticket for exchange it needed. I think I've exchanged almost everything for me, different tastes. And for my kid, for more pratical things. A frilly dress can be pretty but she'll only wear it once.

[@lavonnibjur]

Also, the 'take it there now' approach doesn't always work for ADHD people. Most of the time, I will find something 'there' that needs my attention and by the time I remember what I was doing (if I do), I'm exhausted. What helps me is paying my kiddos to be my 'runners' for an hour and sending them to put stuff away. Thank you for your videos btw. I had such a hard time even beginning this journey of decluttering. I finally realized that the thing that was keeping me stuck in that hoarding and scarcity mentality was that subconsciously I didn't trust God to provide for our everyday needs (even though I thought I did). Now when I have a hard time letting go of something, I ask myself "Do I not trust God to provide this for me if and when I might need this in the future?" It has helped me a lot as have your videos. Thank you!

[@nross4689]

I love the idea of paying your kids to be the runners. That's a brilliant solution

[@newlywedbeth]

Ooh! I think I've found my new best friend! I also have ADHD and struggle with trusting the Lord to provide as needed. Blessings!

[@NLY1WAY4U]

You are very wise. We do want to be in control. Trusting God in all things and still being discerning is the Prverbs 31 woman I achieve to be.

[@signoutloud]

Amen, amen!! God has never let me down. Ever! I will trust Him with THIS and let it go 🤟😁

[@dubosesjoy]

Tip-you don’t even have to pay them. Tell them it’s a game of who can run the most items back for you. I do this with my kids, too. It is so helpful to stay in one place and focus!

[@amyallen5785]

Because of you ladies I finally realized no amount of organizing was going to work if I didn't declutter first. And I tell my adult children every time I give them something, they can do with it whatever they want, no strings attached.

[@nancynewlin8533]

I do too. And I find I give me very little things. We do things together instead - dinner and a move, a few days on vacation, etc. They are married adults and are both on the minimalist side.

[@supercrazydesi]

True words. Organizing efforts fail without decluttering.

[@carolinedelosso6429]

This is great!

[@juliatepe5760]

Great way to approach your adult children!

[@sallyjohnson4043]

I even skip giving it to my kids, it gives them something to do a "to do" having to think it through. But I often send them a picture and ask them if they are interested in it. That way they aren't touching it, aren't having to dispose of it and not too close to want it unless it is something of real worth to them.

[@angmarbar11]

I am doing the "One Word" for 2022...and while some people may choose cooler/sexier words like "intention", "mindful", or "pause"...I am going with "inventory". This is to remind me of the inventory I don't want to manage in 2022 - whether that is clutter in my home, my mind, my relationships, whatever. THANK YOU for this blessing; for making me realize that this is my word.

[@sallyrichter1732]

This reminds me how people make New Year's resolutions. My New Year's resolution has been the same for many years. That resolution is that my garbage container will be full every week. Many weeks it is not full but every week I remember that I need to fill it which helps me to find more things to throw out! You are one word of inventory is a good one too. I think they can go hand in hand quite well!

[@d3ll19]

Me too 🙏 inventory reminds me that they are indeed just things

[@moegirl76]

I just had a realization about the concept of inventory. If we had to write down by hand every single item we have in storage in order to keep track of it, would we be willing to if that was required to keep it? That's what tracking inventory is in a commercial setting. Every single item in a store has a tracking system and management costs. So if I'm not willing to write it down on a physical inventory sheet, is it worth keeping at all. I wouldn't actually do this, but it just helped me understand that "inventory" concept.

[@airforcemom2235]

Cass! Your comment: "The more you let go of, the less you spend" hit home with me. It is soooooo true and I just now realize it. I have more money (and contentment) now that I am practicing being more minimal and trying to spend mindfully. Thank you for that insightful comment.

[@no_peace]

I had to wait for medication to be ready at Walmart yesterday so I looked around and wasn't interested in almost anything there. I bought what was on my list (that i could find). I saw some markers I wanted but I have too many markers already and they weren't quite right anyway so I left them there. It wasn't really fun.

[@greenthumbelina7331]

I sat and listened to the three of you while I was going thru the paper clutter sitting on my kitchen countertop. Thanks for the inspiration! The only thing missing was Tom saying Bub-bye to end this video, so I had to say it myself! 🤣😂🤣

[@jackiefields1607]

Donate gifts you’ve received at a thrift store in another town when you go on vacation. Especially if it’s a really recognizable item. Once we’ve established reputations as downsizers/declutterers, people stop giving stuff to us.

[@alexyes4290]

Hi everyone! Here’s one thing I noticed: the more I kept stuff people gave me just because I didn’t want to offend them, the more I was resentful to them. So I started to say no, thank you and that miraculously solved the problem! Thanks for letting me know I’m not alone in this journey 😘 just know you have someone that follows you from Italy 🇮🇹 ❤️

[@biker5662]

Yes. I totally feel that, too. If I just get rid of the item(s), I can move along in peace with them. Do you ever go into a clutter bug's house and find that your eyes are so much more open to your own clutter? I am much more willing to declutter my own things after such an encounter. For me recently, the more I see the clutter in my home that is from those folks who have a cluttered home, the more likely I am to rid my house of some of the items they gave me... even if I love the gifter very much.

[@crystalkirkman]

To those who are struggling getting started, it will take multiple iterations of decluttering things. It’s been a several year journey for me, and I am not done yet. I’ve found that round one may only get rid of a few things. Then 6-9 months later when you do round 2, you’ll get rid of a few more things. Then rounds 3, 4… you get it. It’s a journey, for sure. You can do it though! ☺️

[@Saforra99]

SO TRUE!

[@lauralogan3046]

I agree! I think that’s technically the onion method? But I know there have been many items I wasn’t ready to get rid of the first or second time I decluttered an area, but sometime later I went through and had no problem getting rid of it ❤️

[@melissab8500]

So glad it's not just me. I felt like I had to declutter before I could declutter

[@easygalleryframes]

that’s SO helpful to hear - thank you for sharing!

[@afrikan_criola1923]

I've been a minimalist for 7 years now and my number 1 advice to keep your house uncluttered is: change your buying habits, you have to buy less, buy more conscious because no matter how hard you declutter if you still buying a lot you'll have a lot of clutter.

[@SnarkasticSunny]

Amen! I am proof of that...the bad side, that is.

[@IWouldNeverAdvocateForThat]

I LOVE THIS! 1. I rather live with regret than clutter. 2. The most disorganized people have the most cleaning products. 3. Worry about your own clutter 5. Five minutes a day to reduce clutter. GOLDEN INFO LADIES! 💗🥰. THANK YOU! I wish I could be apart of your class but money is tight right now but I am learning so much now!!

[@HouseofSquawk]

This is interesting. I didn't become so cluttered and hoardy until after i had lost everything. A friend of mine had the same issue after she lost everything. I always wondered what caused this problem and how it got like this. I'm determined to fix it. I started with one room at a time and i feel so comfortable in those rooms. But I only moved stuff to other rooms. I'm seriously considering having an estate sale with one of those companies that comes over and sorts through and organizes everything before the sale. I already had more than enough things before deaths in the family left me with even more stuff to deal with. Much of it is in storage too. I don't want to leave my kids with this burden because too much stuff is definately a burden.

[@michellekwan5620]

Check out clutter clarity. Apparently, there is a service she provides to coach you through the process on her website.

[@lavonnibjur]

I've watched about half of this video so far but I have to comment before I forget... I have pretty severe ADHD and I also grew up with a scarcity mentality. I am in the beginning stages of decluttering but so far these are a few things that have made a big difference for me: labeling containers first (such as donate, trash, sentimental, currently using...in big clear letters) before starting to go through stuff. The visible words solidify that I now have a system in place and eliminates some of the decision fatigue because now every item has to go into one of the 4 containers. I also have to have clear (see-thru) organizing containers with labels for storage. For some reason, solid-colored containers end up overwhelming me even when everything is in it's place. My son has ADHD as well and I've noticed that clear containers plus big, easy to read labels also help him put stuff back without reminders as well as finding things without getting overwhelmed.

[@moongirl8807]

Do you watch Cas' videos (Clutterbug, she's in the middle)? She said she has ADHD too and although she doesn't specifically mention it in a lot of videos, her methods are definitely ADHD-approved bc she has to use them herself. I find her very helpful myself, what's still missing for me is my official ADHD diagnosis. But we're working on that this year😂 But no really her organization system is genius and from what you've described here, you and your son might be a bee or a butterfly. But look into it yourself and keep in mind that you don't have to be one specific organization type. I'm a bee but in some areas a cricket. (Sorry if you don't know what I mean but Cas explains the different types in her videos.)

[@Jessica_Jones]

I'm the same way with most containers! Anything container where it isn't easy to remember what's in it (like the small basket I have in my kitchen of small baking ingredients, for example), I have to have a clear container so that I can see most of it and it triggers the memory of what all is in there. Opaque containers make me forget and I get annoyed or stressed about sifting through boxes or thinking, "what could be in there that I need to declutter??"

[@SweetStuffOnMonarchLane]

We have very similar stories... I'm ADHD Inattentive type, grew up with the scarcity mentality, and I have great trouble with closed, opaque boxes too! I think most people with ADHD have that "out of sight, out of mind" thing X 100! I agree with the other commentor that you're probably a Butterfly or Bee in Cas' Clutterbug terms. I drift between the two, depending on what I'm organizing. I have this thing about using so much plastic, so I have found that my mind works well with shallow seagrass, wicker, or bamboo containers, too. That way, the items are contained, but you can still see them because they are higher than the top edge of the container so you don't forget what's in them. I really like the natural, peaceful look of them too. I do like clear plastic for upper shelf storage where it's over my head and I can't see inside the container though. It's so funny, after years of trying to force myself into the typical "Cricket" type of storage solutions, I had to give myself "permission" to do it a different way, a way that works so much better for my brain! You are spot on about labels, too! Plus, they actually make them specifically for the seagrass containers. I found them through a link on one of Cas' videos... they sell them at the Container Store. I wanted to mention a couple of things I learned from Dana, too, if you hadn't already (because most of us think she has undiagnosed ADHD 😀). Forgive me if this is stuff that you already know.... if so, maybe it will help someone else who reads this. 1. As you declutter, if keeping an item that belongs somewhere else, take it right then to where it belongs and come right back to where you were. Some with ADHD find this very difficult, which may be why you've come up with the 4 box system you have that is working for you. Sometimes I get distracted doing it, but with her method, even if you end up somewhere else, that first place is still better than what it was, and you don't have a bigger mess or another box to deal with after you're done or run out of energy. I've tried putting things I'm keeping in a box like what you're doing, but I end up shuffling that box around, only to have to go through it at some random day in the future, so that's why that doesn't seem to work for me. I'll get distracted, tired, or overwhelmed, and I don't end up taking care of what's in that box. This leads me to #2. When deciding where an item should go, ask yourself, "where is the first place I would look for this item?" That has been the best advice for me! It makes so much sense to put things where you naturally would go to look for them first, plus you're most likely keeping them in the place where you would use them as well. Well, sorry to babble (ADHD, ya'know)! Good luck with everything! I'm just starting my journey, too. Hopefully we'll have much more peaceful homes as time goes by! 😀

[@lavonnibjur]

@@moongirl8807 Thank you for explaining about Cas. I followed up on your advice and you are spot on! She is an absolute joy to watch and her 4 container method is brilliant. I appreciate you!

[@lavonnibjur]

@@Jessica_Jones Yes, I'm exactly the same with the opaque containers. It's so hard for some non-ADHD people to understand that opaque is not the same as CLEAR.

[@twitterfree480]

Just watched Josh Becker give another question to ask, "What would I do if I didn't have this?" Revolutionary!

[@idengeong]

I love how Dana pointed out how easily we point out other's clutter..🤭guilty

[@manyhats3846]

Its so true! No emotions involved. Even not our likings ect. I will see a setting, and say," That kitchen would be perfect(pleasing to eye-no clutter) if only that-such and such was gone!

[@organized4]

When people finally notice how different the house looks, they start doing it too. Trick is, don't nag, and it will hit those around u. Take this course, it's worth it 10 fold!!

[@michellesmoments19]

THANK YOU for answering the husband question 🙌. Mine won’t even get rid of tshirts with holes because they can be “work” shirts 🤦‍♀️. Yesterday he was like don’t get rid of any old towels!!! He shops at Costco and we seriously have like 6 Costco size replacements on hand, shampoo, tp, laundry soap, olive oil , you get it 🤪. I am going to focus on decluttering my stuff and hope it rubs off 👍🏼

[@janecoder1]

What a great presentation. Dawn is a wonderful group lead. She knows how to keep things flowing.

[@no_peace]

I really adore her

[@amiablecrafter]

She is awesome at it!

[@dianamcmahon51510]

I love the 'make it as easy to put it away as it is to put it down' and 'make a home for everything' rules. I think those things are the root of how clutter accumulates in the first place. Also, never get out of the decluttering mindset because as soon as you do, clutter will happen.

[@waterfallpeace8057]

A few years ago, I decluttered a handmade stuffed animal bunny that I believe I purchased from a craft show. I had it for about 20 years. This bunny wore a cute dress and under shorts. I forgot I hid $20 in the shorts on the bunny. Needless to say, whoever bought this bunny at a thrift store, got a gift of $20 with the stuffed animal. A gift within a gift. I hope it went to someone who was in need. Thanks for the videos. They are fun & informative.

[@lauriepowell3959]

I had to laugh when you mentioned seeing gifts you gave ending up in the thrift shop! It has happened to me-seeing a gift I gave, complete with written dedication from me to the recipient in the thrift store. An even funnier thing was buying a beautiful Christmas centerpiece second hand and seeing a photo of me sitting at my friend’s table before they got rid of it! Even worse was having another friend comment on the centerpiece, saying they have never seen another, but it is so much like a gift THEY gave to the person (and they don’t need to know I bought THAT gift second hand!). 🌲🎄 Ho, Ho, Ho! I guess it’s true: “What goes around comes around!” But we don’t have to keep it all!

[@j.rebekah8605]

What's odd is my grandmother, who grew up during the depression, was notorious for keeping everything, yet, looking back, she had one of the cleanest, most organized homes with the least clutter I've ever known. I think it's the times we live in, we think we need to find happiness in things more than relationships. Waste not want not, but grandma style.

[@karengrissen7022]

Instead of throwing out sheets, towels, blankets & cleaning products donate them to your local animal shelter. They are always in need of those items. Ours even takes pop cans.

[@ruthmanor70]

To those who are afraid of letting go of items that have been gifted to you: Once you accept the gift, it is yours to do with as you please and it shouldn't have "strings attached" that you are required to keep it from that point on. Same goes if you are the giver of a particular gift. Don't give the gift along with the burden that this gift should be held onto for years because it came from you. Giving should be done freely and once the giftee has accepted it, then it is theirs to do with as they please. If it's a family heirloom then discuss it before with the person you want to give it to, making sure they want it and will keep it, then pass it down to other family members later, if possible.

[@seanaames6855]

Yes! This right here!

[@hindareizes2556]

I bought a dear relative a pendant necklace for her birthday. A unique semi precious stone in a gold-plated on silver setting. I chose it because I would have wanted it for myself, it was so perfect. But I never saw her wearing it, and always wondered why. Years later her daughter innocently told me that her mother gave it to her, and she gave it to her friend,( like it was some piece of garbage?) I think she didn't even know I had gifted it to her mother. I have to say, it did hurt. And I don't buy her gifts anymore, like what's the point. We are still friends 😄 So it's one thing when someone "donates" their clutter to you, but if there is time and money expended to choose something nice for you, even if it's not your specific taste, it's not the same. Maybe wear it once before you get rid of it.

[@rdb4996]

@@hindareizes2556 'I chose it because I would have wanted it for myself' is probably why the relative never wore it. While the item had value for you, it did not have value for her as she did not appreciate the beauty. It may seem innocent, one item to wear once. But if you take this broader you will have a whole house full of items that either need to be worn or used or on display when person xyz is around.

[@rubyredeemed]

I get in moods to just toss everything. When I was 18 I tossed out a box of letters from my boyfriend. I remember thinking “why keep these it’s not like we are going to get married “. We have been married 18 years and I still regret tossing them.

[@biancacox8630]

My 22 year old daughter gets in moods like that! She has ADHD and the clutter builds up to the point where one day she wakes up and just can’t take it anymore and she tares thru her stuff and I have learned that I need to go right behind her and go thru those bags because she will throw out things with the tags still on that someone either in our extended family or someone else who could really benefit from those items so I dig them out and give them away ...BUT one of the valuable things I learned from this process with her was that I noticed I was giving gifts for Christmas that a year later had never been used. So NOW...each member of the family gives a FEW things on a list that they would like for Christmas ..like 1 need, 1 want, 1 item of clothing etc. and not purchase things not on the list !! AND NOT buying tons and tons of gifts for Christmas ...We do not believe that gifts are necessarily what Christmas is all about anyway ...and this 1 step is alone is helping ... Oh I LOVE “don’t buy your way out of the problem”😀....I scaled way down on house cleaning supplies by using Norwex products ...you only need water to clean ...they product cleans well AND the cloths last FOREVER AND I got rid of all those chemicals ❤️

[@carrieperrigo2319]

I found a box of letters recently that my husband gave me while we were dating. I read through a few of them. While some were a little humorous, a few I actually tossed b/c they said the same things that others said, and they just weren't important to me anymore. It was nice actually to be able to let some of them go after 28 years of marriage. We're still in love and give each other notes. Its not necessary to keep all of them.

[@rosywilson3076]

On the other hand, you still have him, you talk to him every day.

[@amandagomez4660]

You should ask him to write you a really beautiful love note, something that he would have maybe written for you back then…? Maybe the one he would write for you now would be the most special since he knows you so well after all those years?

[@carrieperrigo2319]

@@amandagomez4660 I have a beautiful card on my desk from him right now that he gave me for my bday back in October. Haven't packed it away yet b/c I enjoy seeing it so much! He definitely still tells and shows his love. I am very blessed!

[@elizabethflannery3290]

I’m single so I haven’t had to worry about a partner not helping/being on board with decluttering. But I’ve been working on decluttering my house over the last year. (I’ve got more I want to do but am/have been at comfortable level for the last few months). And my mum started noticing the difference it was making on my house and how much better I could keep things clean and tidy and has been asking me for help over the last several months. She has also offered my services to help my brother to declutter and organise his house after his house mate moves out soon and he starts some renovations. So I agree with what they say. Just keep going with your stuff and the shared areas and they will start to see the difference and feel the peace that it comes with it.

[@klairef983]

Hi...I watch Dawn & Clutterbug & Dana all the time....Clutterbug is my favorite because she is ADD like me & I am a Butterfly & I have resistance all the time to getting rid of clutter...I feel helpless many times...I look at the clutter & cannot make a decision to start decluttering...Its the starting point that I hesitate & stop...I like seeing the clutter & mess around me & when its gone I miss it ...The whole process of decluttering causes anxiety... Does anyone here have this same issue with getting started & staying consistent...with ADD & Anxiety to declutter ? :)

[@vzeimen]

OMG! Dana you hit my nail right on the head! . REGRET vs CLUTTER. I don't have trouble with anything in my house as far as decluttering except my clothes closet. I can't think of a single thing in there that I absolutely love yet I have trouble decluttering it. I have always known this comes from "fantasy self" issues, not liking my body, wishing I could be thinner, wishing things fit better, however, it's the regret of getting rid of things I may someday want is the paralyzing factor here. I need to realize that I MAY NOT EVEN FEEL REGRET getting rid of things I am not wearing. I'm just assuming I will but really, I get rid of lots of stuff all the time in other areas of my home and never have regret. I need to realize that the ORGANIZED CLOSET WILL FAR OUTWEIGH THE REGRET that I'm not even sure I'll have. 💡🙂

[@oldenoughtoknow...]

I had 3 dressers, 3 closets full of those clothes. Someone referred to them as " bully clothing" in your room that mentally torments you. You know it's there and you can't use it, therefore causing you to feel inadequate, incapable, ugly, shamed, and even a failure. This motivated me highly. The result of parting with "bully clothing" is so rewarding!!!! LET IT GO and enjoy the glory!!!! I have no regrets and a huge smile now that this burden is removed.

[@oldenoughtoknow...]

A little hint....you don't use it now, you won't even miss it. It gives a positive emotional gift to you after it's gone.

[@vjc4502]

Cleared out master closet, took 9 hours (3 - 3 hour srssions) made $89. Donated $200 in new craft items to local thrift store. I tackled clothes 1st, then shoes & seasonal items, then items on shelves. Next I tackled my sewing projects & sorted them by will I or won't I wear it, does it fit, will it make me happy? Projects got moved to garage, recycle, donate or to be done. Crazy how much space I have & how much better it feels. Items not sold within 30 days will be donated. Love it!!!

[@edennis8578]

So, just to ask, how many hours have you spent photographing and listing stuff for sale, then packing and shipping stuff, and making only $89? I'm trying to decide if it's worth the effort for me, and it just doesn't sound like it.

[@vjc4502]

@@edennis8578 good question. I already had experience & accounts for ebay n offer up so it was real simple. Under 30 min on offer up so far. Ebay posts, to get the most money, take longer - approx 1.5 hours this time. I have 40 other items yet to be listed, I quickly googled or had my nephew google to see if it was worth listing. If I can't make 6 or more for 15 min time, I donate it. I arranged postal pick up. I kept many boxes from deliveries & Christmas so I could easily ship items out. I use my Sunday papers as filler when shipping.. Ultimately it is probably $30 profit, but break even happens. Less going into the landfill makes me feel good. Love donating to my local thrift store too. Sometimes it is just the act of sending it out of my home that makes it worthwhile. Plan to make $300 with this next batch of clean outs

[@mariahwilson6505]

You guys are awesome! My favourite memory re: changing people’s mindset toward us as accepting all gifts is from living in a tiny rural community. 10 yrs ago our dump was open all the time and we all called it “the mall” where we’d go to see if there was any “good stuff” or parts for repairs. One day when my kids were little, a well meaning friend came by with a big toy someone had left at “the mall” and said, “I was at the dump and I thought of you”. It just hit me as so funny and pathetic that friends felt they could bring me stuff from the dump and I would accept it! It took some boundary-setting to stop people’s generosity 😝 Looking forward to decluttering freedom with you all!!!

[@myheartsdesire643]

For the person who has no energy to start decluttering I want you to know I HeAR YOU! Last June I started decluttering from a transfer chair..I had beem in the E.R. twice in just the month of June...I was a mess, I was in pain, I have severe arthritis and Fibromyalgia plus other stuff and I will be 72 yrs young in just a few days...just in the last month or 6 weeks I have noticed I have more energy..I go all the time...I work till I drrop darn near and I didn't realize how depressed I was!! I am happier and healthier...I did join the class because I am sure I can use the tips.

[@ZZ-su8ph]

Hope you had a good birthday. *")

[@suestewart546]

It took 2 years but my husband is finally beginning to get on the bandwagon. He is feeling lighter by decluttering his own space and of course, that just leads to him getting rid of more and more. Nagging never works. Thanks for all this great advice.

[@trinam2503]

So true! I was so excited when my husband started going thru his things, that I pushed him and he just stopped. It's taken quite a while for him to start again. I am trying so hard to be patient.

[@lalahdz9553]

I keep telling him about decluttering and I stopped. I would put on Minimal mom videos on the tv while cleaning. He would see me decluttering. He would notice it takes no time to clean now! He is finally after 2 years said he was going to go through the garage!!!!!

[@cjs1440]

What if we all learned that when we give a gift to someone, WE say to them, "I thought you might like this, but if at any point in time, now or later, this is something you no longer wish to keep, please go ahead and donate it, sell it, or throw it away". Give them permission when you give the gift. If we start saying this to those we give gifts to, they may automatically understand the rule you go by when THEY give you a gift in the future!

[@carrieperrigo2319]

I always tell ppl that! Hope you like this, but if you don't pls feel free to return it. My feelings won't be hurt! I'd rather you have something you really like! That's why when someone I love says something they want I always like to buy it right then. I just say, Happy Bday early!

[@JustMyOwnSelfToo]

That is a true gift of freedom!

[@karenwilliams705]

I wish I would have done that with things I gave away (or gifts I gave). It's not too late though, right? Great advice

[@donnav]

My biggest regret was not letting my other family members just learn from my example. I didn’t know when I started out (before I discovered these lovely ladies😁) that I should only focus on my own clutter and not nag others in my home (husband and son) to declutter their stuff when they weren’t yet ready. I have really tried to stop doing this but I can’t say that it still doesn’t happen on occasion. With my husband I really have tried to help him focus on the “death cleaning” mindset which is where the majority of my motivation also comes from. We are both in our mid 50’s but, with having one child, I don’t want to burden him down the road with dealing with too much of our stuff.

[@rosalynne8792]

I put my "stuff" upstairs in a "spare" bedroom. Then take it to my favourite "op" shop.. that supports an animal shelter. I do not take a huge amount each time as it can be overwhelming for them as well. I am not messy...but do have tooo much stuff. I wish we got a new life tho so we could apply what we now know from this one..lol! I have lots..12 boxes, at least..of china crockery etc from the previous 4 or 5 generations. Some from so far back I have never seen it before.. they put their stuff in boxes and each generation added to it. I will keep a couple or pieces but then donate the rest..silver cutlery set anyone? It was so overwhelming to see..I do not want to repeat this for successive generations. For other excess possessions, I do it in small amounts...maybe one drawer or cupboard a day... feels good on many different levels. Op shop loved the clothes I donated.. clean, in excellent condition, some with labels still on them. My "work" clothes. Now retired and just don't wear them any more. I tend to wear clothes till they virtually disintegrate... others just clutter up wardrobe. The hardest to deal with are photos...back to the 1850s. Most to sort are mine from 70s/80s ..too many, so will get rid of the excess. No..won't put in a "cloud".Photos have changed in so many formats just in my lifetime so will reorganise some and get rid of others. These long lockdowns have meant more time to declutter...😁👍🇦🇺

[@tamarawiley1254]

My husband and I did the most decluttering that we could.... we sold our home that he had lived in for 30 years, bought an rv and now live in it on the coast of Oregon. Only regret was not having sealed all the windows and around the slides. Our Oops. Life is good, God is good!

[@conniedetevis2119]

Amen to God is good.

[@amandaramsay5934]

I was organizing my cleaning supplies and clicked on this video. I feel called out. 😂 It's so true though. I'm seriously trying to go through things. I've dropped things off at goodwill. Given things to family, but I still have a LOT to get rid of. I truly want everything to have a home. Thank you all for the encouragement and amazing tips ❤

[@StellaRaeVon]

This helped me so much!!! @19:15 "The more I surrounded myself with, the more I reinforced this thought (scarcity mindset) without even really realizing it, that I needed stuff to feel safe.... This cycle continues because we don't have a lot so we accept a lot from friends and family or we buy in bulk or on discount and then we have so much that we feel we have scarcity. And so we buy. The more you let go of, the less you spend. You're not gonna believe it until you try it for yourself." - Cas from The Clutterbug, as paraphrased by me.

[@mrsks5399]

A week after started decluttering my husband asked for an item... It was a rubber jar opener that never worked and almost frustrated me for that reason. He said he used it almost every day to open his glass vape tanks 🤣🤣 I had never seen him do that so I threw it away. Ended up ordering another one

[@MsOrganique]

I resonated with what Dana said - I get SO irritated with my son and his clutter more so than mine. Because in my head I justify my clutter, He is not even guilty of clustering but he has to navigate around my clutter. I just found these channels - I have started working on my clutter slowly but hopefully I can learn lots and understand this hoarding issue more. I grew up super mimilistic but it seems now that I am understanding these emotional issues in my life and the link to suddenly cluttering

[@stilleve757]

I struggle with regretting some of the things I get rid of. My daughter is totally opposite. When I grow up I want to be like her

[@gordiennedavis2264]

It's only been 3 years that I have been working at decluttering. There is only one thing that I have been upset at getting rid of, (a letter my dad wrote at the end of WWII).

[@BrandiLaShay]

"You're not having any piece of paper and writing a list" -Cas... 🐝 I feel attacked 🤣 I love this! You 3 always inspire me so much!!

[@meganpecunia1662]

You get the 'thumbs up' 3 seconds in because I know I always love when you three get together to lay some truth on this cluttered world. Keep it coming!

[@cwhite8702]

LOL!!!… my Mom gave me her ceramic tree years ago (she passed away last November), I found a vintage one at a garage sale and another at a thrift store, that’s what I collect for my Christmas decorations now… I LOVE THEM… that’s one thing I won’t ever get rid of… OTHER THINGS CAN GO!! LOL 😂

[@michellemhughes]

I always try to remind myself: progress over perfection. You are three wise and inspiring women!

[@deenahaines200]

So glad I found this. Especially the part about not having to ‘do it right’ or ‘do it all at once.’ I have four children ranging from almost 6 to eight months. I am a SAHM in my first year of homeschooling while also taking care of two toddlers and a baby, so I’m busy! But I still feel like this is the first time I really am ready to tackle this issue of TOO.MUCH.STUFF! I’m glad to watch this at the beginning of my decluttering journey because I will be able to give myself all the grace and time I need, knowing there is no deadline and really no perfect way - the key is just to do it! Whether that takes me two months or two years I’m not gonna stress about! Thanks again, ladies! (I also plan to restart and finish Dana’s book now that I feel I’m in the right place to tackle making managing my home a less stressful job!)

[@TwistedSisttaa]

If you don't have the energy to declutter just toss something in the rubbish or donation box on your way to the toilet or othet room. Each time you remember, grab something that annoys you from whatever room your in chuck it out on your way to another room.

[@outlawonadventure]

My decluttering regret isn't so much getting rid of stuff but having bought it in the first place!

[@shwy900]

I went through a box of things that belong to my dad and my brother who has passed away. I cried but I lonely kept a few things to add to the memory box. I am proud of myself.

[@rhondasview1230]

I’ve been doing the same with photos and small mementos and the family members can do with it what they want. I have had them long enough

[@Saforra99]

Wow! That must have been an emotional experience, but well done!

[@mayabellebethany]

Sorry for your loss. That must have been hard. But congratulations on being able to take action and move forward.❤️

[@sarahlockridge7879]

Once someone gives you something or gifts you something, you have permission to do whatever you want with that item.

[@jesselarsen6852]

What I have learned to love about declutterring is the energy it releases!

[@manyhats3846]

So true! Freedom! Addictive!

[@mindymudge7247]

Yes, Dana! I love your no mess method. I first watched it when Dawn did her entryway closet. What a breath of fresh air! You are the greatest! Take it there now is my favorite saying now!!!!

[@jessicagallup4814]

Same for me!

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

That was my introduction to Dana too!

[@candacehoffman-hussain9045]

“My real regrets come from keeping things” yes Dana! 👏

[@lizzabbott]

Love you ALL ! My Home just keeps getting better and better thanks to you three amazing gals ! I also love something Dawn once said in her Minimal Mom Facebook group. It was a kitchen declutter activity. Dawn said, “You CAN have your DREAM KITCHEN NOW when you clear out the extra inventory !” I’m somewhat paraphrasing, but she definitely mentioned “Dream Kitchen“ being attainable NOW just by clearing out the clutter / stuff that is crowding the cupboards etc. SO true ! I take it a step further : You can also have your Dream HOUSE NOW , by getting rid of the excess / “just in case” stuff, etc! We don’t have to have our dream kitchen or home “someday”, when we move to a bigger house or one with an extra closet, or remodel, or add on a room ! You make more room NOW by decreasing the inventory ! My 3 small closets ( 1 coat closet, 2 clothes closets ... again all are like 1/2 the size of an average closet) are more amazing now b/c they are emptier ! BINGO !

[@hayleyredd5092]

I don't have the money means to take the course but I would absolutely love to tell you that yall are the reason that I have been able to get every cabinet in my bathroom and kitchen half empty! My house is an absolute transformation because of yall helping me through this process and that I could never thank you enough for! 💓 And I am still decluttering!

[@StillWatersASMR]

Thank you so much for the honest chat about regret. I have history of getting rid of things I later regret which then makes me scared to get rid of more - but to know that's normal and OK is a bit of a relief!

[@Godblessed2]

Scarcity is now becoming a real thing with product shortages. Would love to see a video on this especially for people who are preppers but don’t want to have so much stockpile- it’s a real dilemma

[@DH-qz2so]

This is an important task for children to learn as soon as they are old enough... growing up, my mom would wait until we were at school, and she would get rid of our toys/stuff... we didn't usually notice til quite a bit later... but still!!! Learning from a young age... brings this good concept into adulthood... why are we all waiting until we are 50 to learn decluttering inventory? Kids should also have a say in their own inventory/toys... thrift store donations of gifts: go two cities over, and donate to those thrift stores, not in your community so people don't see their gift to you there!!! Lol!!!

[@idid138]

Yes, and I know my grandma would do this and it was hurtful to my aunt who became a hoarder.

[@kayelle8005]

Same I was never asked. I just came home to find my favourite toy gone. It really messed with me holding onto stuff too long because of that fear of someone taking my stuff and my stuff never really being mine.

[@kimberlygraham8565]

What is the answer to this?? I was born in 1965. Back when I was in grade school or maybe early Jr High, I remember sitting in our bedroom window which looked out over the back drive and basement cellar doors. I don’t remember details but I think my parents had another argument and my dad was hauling load after load up those cellar stairs and tossing it in his pickup which we knew was going to the dump (no trash service back then). My dad tossed our baby buggies. Absolutely NOTHING wrong with them!! They were blue with white wheels and had the flip up “bonnets” - think old fashion baby carriages, not the modern car seats & strollers like we have today. These were metal and heavy plastic, not crappy disposable junk like now. I remember (at least in my mind) running out to the other room where my mom was crying and begging her to stop him & to please keep them! I wanted mine for the few dolls I still had and knew it was one of those items I would keep for my kids and my kids’ kids. For whatever reason, they didn’t care. They were in the truck and that was it. I had the distinct feeling that the subject was closed and we knew better than argue with our folks once they told us to stop so no amount of crying or asking mattered. To this day, especially now that I have my own granddaughters, I still get misty-eyed thinking about that buggy: Something I cared so much about just tossed like nobody’s business. All these decades later, I still have trouble getting rid of sentimental stuff of my own, and also tossing things even when the owner tells me they don’t want it & it’s fine to let it go (for example, my kids’ clothing, toys, & cute school papers). To make it worse, my husband died when my kids were 6,9,12,15, & 17. I realize 2 things: NOTHING is ‘special’ when EVERYTHING is labeled ‘special’. And in 100 years the only thing that will exist of us on earth are the people we loved and who remember times spent hanging out with us. My grandpa died when I was in high school. Not even my husband met him. My dad died in 1998, 10 years before my husband died. My oldest 3 were only 6.5, 5, & 3; my youngest 2 were not even thought of let alone born. So they never knew my dad (their grandpa) or my grandpa (their great grandpa). Now I have 4 grandkids (so far) and it hurts so bad when I realize my own kids have very limited memories of my husband (their own dad) and my grand babies will never know their grandpa (my husband) at all. Once my mom & I are gone, all those memories of Grandpa (her dad) will be lost forever. My oldest two remember a bit of my dad and miss him but not my youngest have no emotional attachment to him at all… my great grandkids won’t really ever know he existed except in theory. And 60 years from now, they won’t remember much about me unless I can get my clutter gone to have the freedom to live my life traveling to see my grandbabies & spend time with them. It’s so painfully clear that I want the inventory GONE but then the stupid sadness over that doll buggy comes right back in my face. My basement flooded last May on Mother’s Day (of all days!). I lost tons of photos and videos and even their baby books (someone left the box on the floor!!!) that can’t be replaced. I have three storage units that I’m paying for plus my garage packed with so much crap! On one hand I want to phone a friend or call a company to come and just take it all away. Yet on the other hand I know I have to go through every single one of those boxes or risk loosing even more ‘special priceless’ things. Yet the thought of it is paralyzing and overwhelming. Why is the emotional baggage so horrible to work through?? How do we finally get through it all??? I know no one gets out alive and we can’t take it with us, and all those people are already having a grand time in heaven & we will have eternity together. So why is it still so hard to just let all the emotional nooses around my neck, go??

[@kayelle8005]

@@kimberlygraham8565 I’m so sorry no one listened to your request and heard how important it was to you to keep that buggy. You are so right that spending time with your children and grandchildren and making precious memories with them is what will keep you in their hearts and their stories forever. They will remember your hugs and laughter and the look of love in your eyes. How safe and loved they felt when you held them. How special they felt when you spent time with them. The look of joy and delight on your face when you saw them. Your spirit and the way you approached life. All of those memories will be more important to them than any object you leave them. The object will just be a small representation. One they don’t need to “remember you by” because they’ll have all the actual memories. I know as someone who has a storage box full of items waiting for me to sort through that my brain keeps telling me there are special, precious items in there, but I also have to ask myself can they really be so special if I haven’t looked at them or touched them in ages. I have the idea of them and the memory of them without seeing or touching them, but some of them I’ve forgotten I even own. So it’s true some items, some people we don’t value as much, or we forgot about, or we never knew they existed. So what? It’s ok. We can’t hold onto everything. We can’t know everyone. It’s enough that someone did know them. Maybe give that little girl who had her buggy taken from her a hug, tell her you understand why she’s sad, cry with her and for her as much as you need to, and then when you’re ready focus on the relationships right in front of you remind your brain that you want to prioritise people with your only declining commodity of time. I have one granddaughter. I think of the great experiences and adventures we can have together. Can’t wait to take her to my favourite countries, listen to great music together, go on walks. She will know absolutely to every cell in her body how loved she is by me. How precious she is to me. That’s what’s important to me. What’s truly important to you?

[@cynthiaakacyndsmith6539]

Something I have noticed.,.. I do not have great eyebrows like you three maybe that is why I struggle so much…..😁🤣

[@victoriaoliver9958]

OMG! I noticed the same thing! I was like, their eyebrow game is on point.

[@cathylombard964]

I find when I feel overwhelmed with the size of a task, I pick one very simple little piece of the task to do. I find it often “jumpstarts” me to do even more. Even if I don’t do more, I have accomplished something.

[@tracyburton3458]

The 'scarcity mindset' really hit home with me. I was a single parent with barely enough to feed us and a huge mortgage (nearly £1,000 a month at one point on an average UK income). Although my children are now grown and I've been in a happy relationship for 15 years I realise that my 'scarcity mindset' still hasn't left me. One of my biggest problems is food - I can't bear to 'waste' the 10% off coupons our local supermarkets sends me, thus I'm constantly over-buying to the extent that we have cat food in a wardrobe! Yesterday, I cleared all the old foodstuffs from our large fridge and I felt so much better seeing the half-empty shelves. I am going to 'declutter' the kitchen cupboards next. We have one cat ... not a whole colony of them!! Thank you for keeping me motivated. Love your channel Dawn.

[@barbarasevenoaks6821]

I think it's ok to have some "stores" in case you are ill or snowed in for example. At least a week's worth, probably more.

[@tracyburton3458]

@@barbarasevenoaks6821 Maybe for if we're ill but we live in the Algarve so snow really isn't very likely. :)

[@lhumpy190]

I do love how the three of you work together, even though you all do things slightly differently. Well done and thank you for sharing all your knowledge and experiences.

[@PhillipsSongBook]

I have to tell myself, “done is better than perfect.”

[@wendiweberpal9741]

Hmmm. That messy house with tons of cleaning products really hits home with me! Thank you for the new perspective on buying more to fix a problem.

[@suzannedersch8294]

This is my second year. The house is completely done…except for my massive attic. Working on it slowly because it is so much…but I am not overwhelmed by it. I know IT WILL GET DONE by consistently working on it 15 minutes at a time. Thank you, ladies, for the constant encouragement! I am thankful for all three of you!

[@Anno-4full]

Good for u! I got my mom Dawn's workbook for Christmas as she's not seen any decluttering videos and has been working on organizing her basement for 8 YEARS. She was so excited...and she made more progress in 2 weeks then she had in those 8 years by getting rid of stuff (not organizing!) that was for a different season of life. Good luck to you!

[@rdb4996]

Hi Suzanne, were you able to keep your pace? Curious to know how far you got with your attic 😊

[@patsybuckley6874]

I’m relatively new on this decluttering journey and I am loving these videos. The comments are also very helpful! Not sure if this will help anyone but when I first started I STRUGGLED with costly sentimental items. I simply could not donate. One by one I hand-picked a new recipient and regifted those items, telling my story but also giving them full permission to toss or pass along.

[@kristacook7985]

I love how when you've watched so much of each person you start answering other's questions in your head before they give the answer! Love these concepts that WORK!

[@Rise_Higher-444]

I regret all of the money I wasted on presents for other people. Fact is they probably won't enjoy things that you pick out as much as you did. I always feel like if someone gives you something, it's good to be honest and say "I thank you for this and appreciate it, but I'm going to let it go now, do you want it back, or is it okay to let it go ?". That way it's not wasted. I used to buy gifts that I really loved, and would rather get that item back, to either enjoy myself or regift, than see it thrown in the trash. Some people trash perfect, brand new items instead of donating to charity. That makes me crazy. Lol. Wish I had that money back in the bank.

[@ninak8506]

Cas, The Scarcity Mind set 🙌🙌 it's so true! Your explanation is spot on. Love spending time time with the 3 of you!!

[@sueperez21]

Cas's story of the ceramic tree 🎄 was kinda funny. My Mom made a ceramic tree in the 70's in her ceramics class. I loved it as a kid. When she passed, my Dad gave it to me. I have so much clutter in the house, I've thought about donating it, but It is something i really want to keep ❤

[@laurat7324]

You should definitely keep it.

[@ZZ-su8ph]

It brings you joy.

[@carol-destinationsinflorid5591]

I feel your pain on the tree Cas. I got rid of mine in 2018. SMDH Men - I had to laugh. My hubby is an over-organized collector. He will remind of things I have in multiples as if it doesn't apply to him. I've begun to tell him to go look at "all my stuff". He has been gobsmacked by what I've cleared. It took 3 or 4 times before it hit him. He began slowly. When he got to his closet, I help my breath. He got rid of stuff he hasn't worn in 30+ years. We still have areas he won't/hasn't tackled, but I look at what he has.

[@cindynielson4231]

I finally felt well enough to start the no mess method this weekend. I had some books I wanted to keep but the shelf was full. I got rid of at least 30+ books. I showed my hubby that I did not touch his books. He replied "What books"? Next morning when I got up he had decluttered about 1/3 of them. Yeah! TFS 👍🥰

[@KatyInNH]

Great story!

[@iammedusa2600]

The best advice you gave was DO YOU WANT TO PUT THIS ALL AWAY NEXT YEAR? No, I don't. I have been decluttering for about 4 months and I love walking around my home that is soooooo clean and uncluttered. Swedish death cleaning also helps tremendously. Thank you ladies!! xoxo

[@regenaguinn]

I am looking forward to Christmas to see what items make/don’t make the cut (😊of DO YOU REALLY WANT TO PUT THIS ALL AWAY NEXT YEAR)

[@vzimmer1951]

I don't think you can jump to the end. You have to go through the struggle in order to grow.

[@vivio2852]

I’ve always parked my iffy stuff in the basement for a few months and then come back to it before I decide to pitch. I have pulled things out and been very glad I changed my mind. I may be slower about it but it gives me peace of mind to know I made the right decision.

[@obeliapark9860]

I bought the "Take Your House Back" course last year & it is FANTASTIC! When I started to declutter unfortunately I didn't take any before photos but oh my goodness, I got rid of at least half of my household & it felt AMAZING. During the process I constantly had in my mind "what else can I get rid of". My husband & 21yr old daughter picked up on it on their own & started decluttering their things too. Yay! They saw & felt how freeing the house was becoming & instinctively joined in 😀 My eldest daughter took a lot longer but when I mentioned shes like Dawn & Cas & needs containers to throw stuff in (especially her clothes... She was drowning in clothes...) it's made putting her things away so much quicker and easier. Dana she still hasn't managed to do her dishes everyday but hey one tiny step at a time. 😉 Cas the mantra for my 21yr old & I is "if it's not a solid yes, it's got to go" 😁 thank you. Im subscribed to all three of you ladies & I love your course so I renewed. I can't do the all day decluttering coming up (plus I'm in Australia) but I will go through the whole thing another day very soon like I've done with your others. Dawn I'm really looking forward to seeing how much more "I can pair down".😊 Happy New Year ladies & let the decluttering continue. Xxx

[@rhondasview1230]

Dawn, ppl were taught way back in the days of pioneers lol, they just took what fit in the wagon and left or gave away the rest, nowadays we can’t bear to not keep it all that well pay money for years for storage units

[@KatyInNH]

That is a fantastic comment!!!!!!

[@rhondasview1230]

I’ve been watching 1883

[@simmiedavissimmiesings8185]

Seven. Contractor .Bags. 2 boxes. And I cannot tell u a single thing that was in there without big effort. Im the youngest and always got hand me downs. I am working on valuinh myself more. And realizing that not everyone gives bc they think i will like it.

[@kaybergstrom7517]

Ouch, I resemble every remark you've made. Thanks for the incentive. I wish I'd watched this months ago.

[@nancymillet8210]

I never feel guilty about the things I’ve let go. I may think about them and sometimes look for them. But once I realize I decluttered it I’m good with my decision.

[@liap1293]

Oh, my goodness! Dana hit the nail on the head for me. I can see my husband's clutter & things he can get rid of but I hold my tongue because I have so much more to declutter than he. I so wish I could participate in take back your house (but alas, I unable to pay the fee).

[@dig1272]

I have been decluttering for about 4 years but got real serious when I quit my job to declutter and remodel my house 2 years ago. And, I am getting momentum now by watching you, Dawn, Cass and Home Edit. So appreciative!! And fun!! I decluttered my remodeled kitchen. 9 large trash bags and LOTS of expired food that went in our seaprate recycling bin for food (2022 we no longer can throw food in the trash). I have donated probably 15 bags of clothing to our local Battered Women Shelter, much more to go! I bought little bins from IKEA you recommended to handle my sock and underwear drawers, my pajama drawer, etc. and I got the Container Store Stackers for my jewelry and LAST NIGHT I went through EVERY piece of jewelry I own. Have lots to go to Battered Women, lots to throw out, a couple gold necklaces to sell, silver to clean and keep or donate, and the keepsakes such as my wedding band, pearl dangle earrings I wore with my wedding dress, etc. Sooo excited! I now have lots of choices for jewelry!! Oh, wow, Cass. I have tons of Melaleuca cleaning products. LOL

[@carolinedelosso6429]

I love you all. Your voices are calming to me ..is that weird ? but I have to say my favorite of you to watch declutter is Dana - so I had to tell you - I crack up when I watch your videos. And I appreciate that you are honest and funny and let your distracted -ness show during the videos. But I do love dawn’s encouragement and cass’s tips and tricks …and I appreciate you all equally. Thanks ladies!!

[@lgray0234]

2 things…1. I have no motivation to do anything 🤦🏻‍♀️ and 2. Something that I realized as I was putting up Christmas stuff…I saw a tote (clear) with some purses in it and opened it to like 5 purses and 2 or 3 tote bags. These were bags that I used to love! I thought storing them in a tote would keep them nice. Well now they have a faint smell. You know that stored up smell. Granted this tote was in the garage but it was closed tight. Anyway, it made me mad at myself for holding on to something that someone else could have used and lived like I did. I’ve thought about this before with clothes but I guess seeing these purses just drilled it in my head to quit holding onto this stuff! I usually have a few purses I go back and forth with but I’m holding onto purses from 10 years ago. Lol These purses are now in my car to donate. We donate to a mission organization and they clean things up and sell them for cheap. So hopefully someone will get use out of them. I still struggle with so many other things. I wish I could afford your class but I’m on disability and just don’t have the extra money. I do learn so much from you ladies so thank you for all you do. I can tell how genuine you are and I appreciate that. 💜

[@barbkandel777]

We became minimalists over 2020 just by watching Dawn's decluttering videos on KZbin - for Free!!! You can do this! 🙂

[@aprilragin1591]

Yes! The less I have, the less I spend. It's the craziest thing, but it's totally true. I also loved hearing "The Slob Comes Clean" talking about the fact that I'd rather live with a bit of "giveaway regret" than living with too much clutter!

[@Jennaweeks61]

Oh my gosh you just described me! I never even knew what scarcity mind set was,never heard of it. WOW that's what I've been doing for years. Thank you for this! It has helped me so much! 😁🙏

[@michellegleave2550]

When I explain my reasons for decluttering, I find my husband and my daughter follow suit because they can see the progress. I’ve told them I will never decluttering anything that belongs to them, I don’t want them to stress, and slowly ver time they have begun decluttering too. They have one or two areas that are harder for them, but as I decluttering more and more, is that there is p,entry of room in my home for those items that they are reluctant to let go of and it’s totally fine. My real “project” will be moving onto the garage and helping my husband to let go of something that might be useful “one day”.

[@kristinamarshall6386]

I sold a dresser when we were moving and then it I had to buy a new dresser, but I don't know if I regret it exactly. It was inconvenient to live without a dresser for 2 months, but the one I have works better for our space. The only other thing is my food processor. Sometimes I think I wish I had it still, but truly I didn't use it! And I probably still wouldn't.

[@donnamarie4438]

I’m finding that it’s true that it’s like an onion. I recently de cluttered my clothes but yesterday I de cluttered 6 more huge bags of clothes. I donated clothes I like but I wasn’t wearing. That you ladies.