Sign up for the Free Get Organized HQ Conference here: cli.re/free-event Related: My organized House Tour Video: ruclips.net/video/qP7R_cvgwYs/видео.html Watch he playlist for the other organizing videos here: cli.re/Get-Organized -- and THANK YOU for your support! It means more than you know!!!!!! - Dawn
I’m the opposite of minimal, I’ve inherited lots of good stuff, and what to do with. Worse I have another house to be cleaned out sadly my mother in law passed way. I’ve learn and learning from you. I’m keeping the clean out simple not to be overwhelmed like you’ve said. Trying to dispose of a large trash bag everyday and close the door after 15~60 minutes. You have helped me be happier and not as stressful.
I’m excited for your keynote session ❤️❤️❤️ and signed up for the all-access. Much less expensive today than when I added it last year. Helpful then so I figured grab it now. Speakers were very good last year so I’m sure you’re in great company this year! (btw - I have no stake in the Get Organized HQ world so this is just as a fan of the event.)
My newest bin solution: A care bin for every pet. I own 4 cats and 2 freeroaming bunnies, that are all rescued and have different handicaps. In the bins are the medications, care supplies and a sheet with medical information, contact of their doctor and instructions, in case something happens to me and a stranger needs to take care of them. Billy (my 15 year old cat) was found in the apartment with his deceased owner, nobody knew anything about his medical history or were to get this information from. It took us almost 2 weeks to figure out, what his medical condition was. I learned from that experience.
Our house was trashed in a flood about 25 years ago and everything had mud on it. So that gave me a life motto for decluttering. Would I clean mud off this?
I'm definitely one of those people that the, "does this spark joy?" Question doesn't work for....little things make me happy, but clutter is debilitating for me. So the idea of, "do I want to manage this?" Is way more effective!❤️ Love your videos!
So is what you're saying, perhaps a a few *too* many things "spark joy"? 😆 Think I'm in the same boat. 🙋♀️ Oh, but I know how quickly it all adds up. 😣🤪
I have one tip for the kitchen, as far as, small appliances or tools, if it takes longer to clean than using a basic tool, get rid of it. That's how I keep my kitchen at a minimum.
We had to buy a new range with a smaller storage drawer. I had to remove nonessential cooking ware and box extras. Then, nicely told hubby to shop from the box.
Ha, we stopped at a garage sale and my husband was like-look at this apple/potato peeler that looks handy! I said I have a pairing knife that works on everything -no thanks!
@Sandy Seffrood It depends on how often you do apples. At harvest time, my peeler corer slicer gets A Lot of use and only takes a few more minutes than a knife would to clean.
I like the clip where Dawn’s husband puts the drill up on top of the fridge and flashes the most facetious face… Leave me tools where me want to and you can’t reach bc you’re too short. Priceless.
We live in our starter home and we don't plan on moving for several years, but when I'm decluttering I like to ask myself "is this something I want to go through the hassle of moving," because I hate moving! This mindset helps me let go of a lot more.
Great point! I'm using the same idea in my basement. We are working on remodeling, which means cleaning out the basement. If it's not something I would put in the new space, there's no point in keeping it at all. Our next move will be in about 9 years when we retire and downsize. The more I can eliminate now, the easier that will be too.
We moved to Tennessee from Michigan a few years ago. We took a leap of faith and didn’t have a house lined up yet. All our stuff went into a storage unit. I asked myself a similar question. “Do I want to pay to keep this in storage”? We really got rid of a lot before moving. And I STILL had several boxes worth of stuff that I donated once we found our house!
And I intend to downsize in a few years, so already letting go of extra furniture (and sometimes what it stored) and other things because I know the smaller home won’t have room for it. In some ways that’s very helpful.
You have such a humble, precious spirit. It is so sweet to hear you say, “I love you,” at the end of your videos. That always warms my heart. Thank you for the joy you bring to everyone! Hello to the cute kiddo peeking in the window!
In all honesty this woman is so full of BULLSHIT that saying she loves you is a complete joke. I've news for you she doesn't know you or the sky over you. She is only saying it so that gullible people will keep watching thus swelling her bank account.
I’m 66 years old and have always been an ‘organizer’ and very good at it. 8 years ago we moved cross country and I had to get rid of TONS of stuff. I cried several times as I saw things go out the door. However, I soon began to feel to freedom and stress lifted off my shoulders as I had so much less to manage. Since then, I’ve continued on the journey to live with less and shop intentionally. I use the container method allowing a certain amount of space for specific items. I also always decide what is “prime space” and only allow things I use all the time into those easy to reach places. Thanks for your inspiring videos!
Decluttering, for me, absolutely has happened in layers. After I went through my entire house, I thought I had gotten rid of everything. But I went through it again a few months later and realized that there were things I hadn't used since the last declutter, so I was finally ok with letting them go. This has happened multiple times now as my tolerance for clutter has decreased, and every time I am able to get rid of more than I thought I would.
I agree 100%!!! The second time through was so easy because it was obvious that something I considered a "keep" 6 months ago still wasn't used and was much easier to let go. I also love the idea that a pile of stuff that was sitting in a box for a year was already "in quarantine" that whole year and I never went searching for it, so it's much easier to admit it's not needed.
I think the first pass through - for most of us - there’s so much stuff it’s overwhelming. But yes it’s been similar for me. Sometimes only days after I’ve been through a space I will realize I should have gotten rid of a specific item, so I go get it right away.
There are cupboards in our house I have been through 5 times.On the third pass I thought, ‘why did I not think to declutter this already?’ On the fourth I was like, ‘okay HOW did I not see this can go?’ 😅 On the fifth pass I was flabbergasted that sure enough - I found quite a few more items to declutter 😱💪😂
I’ve just started a time will tell bin for clothes, bags and shoes. I have finally got my wardrobe down to absolute basics and feel like a weight has been lifted off. Those last items I was really struggling with have been put in timeout!😂 . I have just sorted through all my Christmas stuff and given all my spare gift bags, cards, paper etc to my mum who had none. It is amazing how much better I feel. I’ve also started to just buy the food etc I need. Not storing loads and having to check dates etc constantly. I am amazed at how different I feel. Can’t thank you enough. This community is very supportive and safe.😊❤
Hi Dawn! You are my favourite "de-clutterer / organizer"! I recommend you to everyone I know that needs to get their space in order. I'm a certified home stager, so i can appreciate the decluttering piece of the process very much! Two things that "stuck" with me from your lessons are 1. "You don't waste money throwing something out - you already wasted the money when you bought it", and 2. "Do you really want to continue managing this stuff for the next dozen years?" Thanks for all you do.. Marlene
I’ve been “trying to turn into a minimalist” for 4 years but I did it crazy slow because I too do NOT stick with anything. About a year ago all of a sudden I was like “wow I am so organized and clean” and it clicked that I FINALLY crossed the line into minimum!! And now I’m 💯 in!!! It’s amazing!!! My kitchen is clean every night. I can keep up with the laundry 🤯 it’s still so unreal!!
Way to go! I’ve gone through some of the same changes! My kitchen is clean every night, too. I reset rooms when I’m done by putting things back where they belong. I even do my laundry on a schedule instead of putting it off til I’m out of clean clothes. I’m really proud of myself. Dawn has helped me SO much!
I too am working through a 4 year plan to declutter. It started when my youngest went to college. Just starting the 3rd year. The pace is good for me since I was a deliberate shopper, so now I work at a slow and deliberate pace, it suites my personality. For the past 30 years I always gave to salvation army, the difference now is I'm not buying new stuff.
@@donnaw3195, Yes only buying what you need, will use; instead of wants, /or oh it's on sale!?.. Am I right Donna W?? Yes your mind set changes! I feel you. Congrats to you on your journey and adventure on: Only keeping what you use, need, love!! Letting the rest go.!! Blessings. ☺
funny about the same here. i mean we started in old place moved to bigger and am like great oportunity to declutter more. and it just kept happening for so long. we just finished living room. super minimal. kitchen fully laballed organized and me and my partner like oh finaly getting there. :)
That's why I'm letting go a good majority of things. It's always been overwhelming but after circumstances that led to burnout, I've had to really reconsider what things I want to focus on in life. I'm dusting the furniture but I can't get in the shower. Not having a car really made me think about how much I'm taking in because I have a hard time getting rid of it once I have it.
My kids are 40, 33, and 27 years old. I kept a memory box for each of them from day one. The bins were larger than yours, Dawn, but what a treasure to pass those on to my adult children. My grandkids have now worn some of their parents’ special outfits for photos. What a treasure it is to them and to me to see a photo of my child alongside my grandchild wearing the same baby booties, or ball cap, or Sunday dress. ❤️ They love looking at special school projects. The belly laughs when they read what the wrote back then are so worth the effort I took to compile them. 💙❤️❤️
One unexpected thing happened while decluttering and organizing... I repurposed a curio cabinet. I love the cabinet itself but it had become a dusty housing for unnecessary items. So while giving it a very thorough cleaning, it reminded me of an apothecary style cabinet. Now I have my essential oil books in it (just a couple) my back-up supply of oils, my Bible and business books (again, just a couple) It actually serves a great purpose now and is very pleasing to the eye. I feel like I have a new piece of furniture as well as an organized area for important items.
Everything you say is true. 2 packed trash bags going to dump. 8 boxes of expired cake mixes 🙄 6 hand mixers. 3 are missing parts - they are keeping the cake mixes company in the trash bag. A broken ice cream maker. It’s hard to move in with someone who won’t let go. But since he doesn’t cook he won’t miss them. I feel like a new person. Thanks so much!
Years ago I started with Nike orange shoeboxes to organize my bathroom shelves. I think it’s time for a Target bin upgrade. You inspire me every week. Good luck at the conference.
Haha! Right?! I thought the same thing! She's trained her kiddos well! No one came barging in and interrupting for a snack or to say they're "bored". They just went back to playing outside in the sunshine for a bit longer! 🌞 👧
"Do I want to manage this" really reminds me to not hang on to excessive things. Thank you so much for all the life changing advice you share in your videos! One of your littles was peeking through the window at the end of this video 🤗 hi!
I swear there's something about listening to your instruction and tips that is so incredibly motivating, that it always puts me in the mood to declutter. How that happens, I don't know but it's amazing and I will forever be listening to your videos. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and flicking the switch on our brains. PS, after listening just now, I cleared out three drawers and a huge section of an armoire. I have a big box for the donation center tomorrow and about 20 lb of garbage. Best part, Life feels lighter. Thanks Dawn!!
You have saved my sanity!! Bless you and yours for being the person who puts it in ways that finally clicked with me to the whole concept! You have a gift of being persistently, consistently able to explain and utilize the resources and tapped into the Human Psyche that answers the whys behind most of the current struggles. I feel so fortunate to have found you and through you , the network of others. God bless you and your beautiful family. You and your husband are truly a godsend and an inspiration in healthy relationships and living a sane, healthy, modern life.
Helpful way to tell how precious something is to you - put it on the floor, in the way. If after 1 or 2 days (or hopefully hours) you are still willing to skirt around it, it may be a keeper. If being careful of it is a pain for you then let it go. It sounds odd but I've done it many times and it quickly tells me if I love it enough to be inconvenienced for it.
I found my grandmother's dishes in my attic. Memories flooded me and I couldn't stop smiling. Did they bring me joy? Absolutely! So I should keep them right? Uh, no. They were ridiculously ugly and I would never use them. I donated them. It was after that I stopped using the "does it bring me joy" method. LOL
I do like how you speak about our possessions as “inventory” because it really helps me understand how much I shuffle things around the house instead of getting rid of things I don’t use! Touch it once , decide where it goes and that’s it!
I love this. I was always labeled the messy one in my family...in the past 20 years I have slowly become a tidy organized person. You have helped me so much to finish systems I have started and changing my mindset to realize that simplified living makes it so much easier to be tidy and organized. And thank you for the free ticket link. So excited.
The quarantine bin you have mentioned in past videos works well for us. My husband especially likes the idea. He grew up with the mindset that everything needs to be kept “just in case”. It’s hard for him to let go of things. However, he is excited for this new method of putting not used items in a box and if in 30 days it’s not pulled out and used, he is happy to donate it!
I like to declutter after my kids birthdays. I tell them if they want to have room for the new things they received we need to get rid of things they don't use or don't like anymore. We just did this yesterday and we got rid of so much stuff! It makes me so proud to see my kids using their decluttering muscles.
Thinking of things as inventory and managing things have really helped me reduce the clutter in my home. I love organizing but I’m not great at it. I just do what works for me 😅
“Do I want to manage this?” & “the mental to-do list” really hit home with me and light bulbs went crazy in my brain. These 2 statements are IT for me.
Loved the "peeker"! Even at my advanced age (!) I worry about being distracted/interrupted by People and their Needs. I love that you have carved out your space (even if it requires editing) to do important things, and that your children (and spouse) are still part of your space behind the scenes. Real life, real living process.
Wonderful as always. And it so cute - kids peeking in at the end. Your kids are so blessed to be experiencing the benefits of this. I came pretty late to the game...
Use what containers you have: I remember when you talked about paper clutter and people were asking about what container you used and where you got it. It made me concerned. People seemed in too much of a hurry to assume that they needed to buy that special box that was just like you had. The thing is, I bet most of them had nice containers that became available during the decluttering phase. I've seen people who used vintage purse to hold there command center paper (do on Sunday paperwork). That was really cute
We’ve been trained to buy solutions to problems and we usually try to buy just the right thing instead of doing the work (chefs are asked which knives they use, photographers which lenses, as if we can buy a shortcut to becoming experts). I’ve had a “time will tell” pile in a specific spot in my cupboard to test out the idea and honestly don’t know that I actually need a container at all.
I helped 2 8 year old girls declutter & reset their bedroom this week. The look they gave me when I said, "Anything you give away or throw away today, you NEVER ever have to clean up again!", was priceless. The room looked super after & they were sooooo happy. The one girl asked if I could come over again very soon to help them clean up again. I told her I'd love to come over again to see how nicely they've put things back in the homes they helped to create for their items. We'll see how it goes!
Having a specific memory bin for each one in our family was a huge “Aha!” moment for me! I literally stopped decluttering, found an accessible, yet poorly utilized closet in our house, installed wire shelving, purchased and labeled covered bins for each shelf and voila!! Decluttering is SO much easier now! 💕
Hey Dawn… I’ve recently discovered your channel and LOVE it… you are so encouraging and helpful!!! I’m almost 70 and have felt overwhelmed for 20 years! BUT, since watching a few of your videos, I’ve began to tackle my ‘problem!’ THANK YOU seems so small for the help you’ve been to me… all I can say is may God richly bless you as you have blessed others❣️💕🙏🏻 God is good and you’re truly a gift from God!
My kids LOVE ramen noodles, and my son would live off them if I would let him, so I tend to buy the packs in boxes of 12, and when the boxes are empty, I pretty-fy the boxes with contact paper and use them for all kinds of stuff around the house! I also put contact paper on the boxes that canned goods come in/on in the grocery stores, and will use them for organizing in my pantry. The boxes work just fine without the contact paper, but they look so much better with it!
I think memory bins are so helpful. I have three kiddos (they are in their twenties now), my daughter recently came across an old choir shirt she wanted to keep and asked can I put this in my memory box so it's not in her closet anymore. Took five minutes to move it and it is safe.
@@IRISHLASS273 are you actually serious? Those kids probably have a better childhood than most. So much fresh air, trips, time with parents, lack of consumerism. It's just a kid peering at a window while mum is working!
@@IRISHLASS273 this may be a silly question but why are you even watching and commenting on the video if you feel this way and think so little of her fans? If it's not for you move on, there's no need to be rude. If you have the time and energy to spend trolling RUclips videos why don't you put that to better use - seek some real causes to get worked up about and see what you can do to make things better for people/animals/the environment.
@@jenny37able I've always wondered who are the people that hit the dislike button on great sites like this.....now we know! Great comment to her, too....but I bet she'll just keep hating!
If you have trouble seeing small labels first cut a strip of painters tape ( blue or green ) and place the strip on your bin then place your label from your label maker in the middle of the colored tape. It peels off easily when you want to remove it.
I actually was just using the painters tape for labeling but the black sharpie was always too dark. Now I will be switching up to a chalkboard pen, yay!
OMG, love the comment about does it spark joy. I felt the same way! Way too many things spark joy and that is why my house has become a cluttered mess. I try to remind myself and more so my husband that I want to live life, enjoy life and stop being paralyzed by all of our STUFF. It is just too mentally exhausting and taking a serious toll on my mental state as of lately. So...Hoping and praying one day we will be free of our STUFF and enjoying a clutter free home and being able to enjoy the things that mean the most to us (Family!). All wonderful tips! Thank you!
I sent the “getting started” video series to my mom yesterday. Called her this morning and she said “that Dawn is just the GREATEST!! The way she explains it makes so much sense. I have already cleaned out 4 boxes of stuff!” After 1 day, 4 boxes from just one room of decluttering! Thanks Dawn! Not only for helping my mother decluttering, but now she understands when I say I don’t want anymore “stuff”
Just wonderful Dawn. Thank you so much for all your videos. They are a highlight in my week. I loved your gorgeous lacy top. Black doesn’t have to be boring. Very professional video as usual. Everything about the video was so enlightening and encouraging. Congrats on being chosen as a keynote speaker. They certainly knew what they were doing when they chose you. Wishing you all the best.
lol. I'm always losing things like my eyeglass case, waterbottle, keys or phone, or chapstick, or note,. So, I decided I needed to have a SPECIFIC PLACE to put these things when I sit down. In my case, it's at an often cluttered work desk. So, as I was decluttering, I found a small wooden box (smaller than a shoebox). I painted it glossy black and using a white paint pen, I wrote on it , "Where did I put my....." So now, every time I sit at my desk, that's where my items go while I'm working. And the second I start looking for something and think, "Where did I put my...." BAM! I remember instantly. :) I'm so proud of it. lol
You've been such a great teacher and inspiration, Dawn. Your channel has really helped me (and others) break through obstacles to reduce inventory to make life easier to manage. Thank you💞 I'm proud of how far your channel has come! And congrats on being a speaker at this conference🥳
Another Great video. I loved some of those ideas. I just unburied my label maker after like 10 years and it still works. Its also been super interesting to see how responsive the people in my house have been to labels.
Dawn, what completely flipped my mindset and has allowed me to get rid of so much stuff that has made my home stressful is the BBQ tongs. That's right the video you did where u talked about why you were getting rid of perfectly good tongs that you could use should your existing set break. But if they break you could easily buy a replacement. I immediately thought of things in the home that I was storing because they are useful. I got up and pulled out the 2nd & 3rd bottle opener. All of the boxes of leftover screws and nails. The 2nd 3 hole punch etc. etc. That video just shifted my mindset on stuff in general. It's just stuff. Thank you for what you do!
I loved your little girl peeking thru the window to see if you're done & she could come in now. I also love watching & listening to you. You are so sweet & I always get this "I feel good" feeling from your videos. You're so encouraging in all aspects. I feel like I know you & we're friends. I look forward to seeing you each time. Thank You So Much & God Bless You & Yours'
I did this. I used cardboard box bottoms or tops as my bins and when I found my system worked after some weeks/months, I replaced them with awesome, sturdy, see-through versions. Saved me a ton of money by not making mistakes.
"Do I want to manage this?" is SO helpful when decluttering. Learning my organizing style really helped me know what type of things/containers to buy to be successful at organizing in our home. Great video, Dawn!
The homeless bin really helps us. My husband and kids do not know how to create homes and organize. Having a place for them (and me) to just chuck it really helps clear my head of all the visual clutter that can become accumulated on your surfaces with time. When it's time to empty it its very easy to have it all in once place. I can pluck all the stuff that goes to one room out and take it. Instead of grabbing a few things here then finding more things there that should have went into the same room that I was just in! It's also permission to not be perfect and allows you "slip up" and most importantly RELAX! That's what this is all about isn't it? The opportunity to relax and just enjoy your home.
The idea of layers in decluttering has helped so much. I now realize it doesn't need to be the finished product right away. It's less and that's better, and as I get stronger with decluttering I will revisit and thin this area out more. Thank you for your help and positive, realistic attitude 😊.
Knowing my clutterbug style was great in itself, but even better was the realization that the way I do things is not "wrong" and there are so many others just like me. The permission that gave me to BE the way I am, and make systems that work for me, really helps me. I am the type that needs to have a fast, easy place to toss things (and easy place to find things) or they will end up on a horizontal surface, especially if I think I might use them again soon. I'm still trying to figure out how to quickly and confidently categorize things because I find myself spending a lot of time trying to decide "where SHOULD this go?" "what should I use this bin for?" etc and it really eats into what little time I have for actually doing the work. I like how you and the ladies who offered these tips talked about just doing what you can, working with what you have, and letting it all be a work in progress. I tend to have all or nothing thinking, and it can make things feel impossible sometimes, which leads to not even starting and then feeling bad about not starting! 😵💫 Anyway, I posted this so others can really see, in case they haven't yet, that they are not alone! Progress, not perfection. We can do this. 👏💖
Just because you’re not naturally tidy or organized doesn’t mean you can’t learn the skills and find systems that work. I think you’re the perfect person to teach others about this topic, Dawn, because it was something you’ve had to learn and because you can speak to people who are not crickets.
I always hated labels, felt like i should know where things go, and what is in every box /basket. Truth is, i don't... And a label would be helpful. It's just that i change my mind so often about where things should go. Maybe those chalk labels would be ideal to start.
Thank you for all you do for us. Really. If it weren’t for you and Steph at Sec slob, I would’ve thrown in the towel a long time ago. I guess I really want to thank you for being real “I’m not an organized person” “I always thought I was lazy” - all the statements I’ve made to myself over the years. You make a difference in the world, Dawn!🥰
Ive found some of the Sec Slob content helpful too. I noticed your channel includes animals so I just wanted to pre warn you (in case you haven’t watched it) that one of Steph’s videos from 6 months ago (organising storage in her basement) shows a bear she’d forgotten about in a bin bag. I wish I hadn’t seen that video so I thought I would give you a heads up in case it’s not your cup of tea either 💐
I feel great! I decluttered my plastic container cupboard with my husband's help. All the covers and unused containers are going to our church. One shelf vs. 3 areas! Thanks for your inspiration.
Three things that have helped me organize are 1) declutter by asking myself “is this going to add value to my life (my goals) in the future,” 2) give my overwhelmed self and mixed big family a break by organizing like a butterfly or ladybug until I have the stamina and vision to reevaluate and organize further. This also helps me gauge the amount of space that I realistically need to house groups of related items. Finally, 3) I think about where I use items and then store them LITERALLY within arm’s reach. Then, I have taken almost all the effort out of putting things away. I FEEL AMAZING... and I am actually just being strategically lazy. HA! Take that, clutter!!! XOXOXOXOX
"Use it or lose it" (in Dawn's voice) is my go-to. It helps me to snap out of the humming and hawing or reasoning with myself as to why I should hold onto something. Thank you for all your inspiration, and hope that a house can be manageable and peaceful with kids!
Thank you Dawn for your great big smile and sunny attitude, as you share the inspiring, decluttering tips and tricks. The change in our two bedroom 1000sq ft condo, is fantastic. Love you Dawn 🤗❤️🌷
Because I found your channel and practiced so many good tips,.I've decluttered over 50% off our home. Still a work in progress.... I was wearing a shirt I did not enjoy this morning. When I realized how much I didn't enjoy it I went to the bedroom to change. But I asked myself , "what other shirts do I not enjoy"? I've made my wardrobe so much smaller in the past year it was simple to go through quickly and find those items. I found 5 shirts that are now in a bag waiting for donation. I also took a close look and saw that I had enough. No need to shop to replace those items. So simple, no agonizing over the decision to declutter them. Thanks for all the encouragement Dawn!
When you were showing bins I had an epiphany. I used to see shelves as something to fill with stuff. I realized I became triumphant over stuff when I learned to see the shelves as places to store the things I want. Shelves used to be entities that demanded to be filled. Now they are servants that are there to help
I'm 52 and I use to be very organized, got rid of stuff I wasn't using anymore, never had a thing on my counter tops. I actually use to vacuum and mop every morning, big time neat freak. I'm a cricket, I took the test. The reason was my husband moved us about every two years and I did not want the headache of packing so much stuff. My husband passed away, I remarried and my now husband hates to move. So, I started holding on to everything. I went from one extreme to another. A few months ago I felt I was drowning. God sent you and I'm so grateful. I started in the kitchen and have been working my way around the house. I'm not close to being done, but I see the light at the end of the tunnel where it use to look like a black hole. Words can not say thank you loud enough.
You gave me the power of 5 minutes. Yesterday I 5 minuted myself a LOT. I gave myself a one time restart per room for a max of 10 minutes. If I didn't get it how I "wanted", I still walked away. But 5 or 10 minutes got it done where ever I was. I even got a couple of dresser drawers to a state of peace.
i listen to you while I declutter - your videos motivate me so much. I’m so blessed to have found you. I finally understand that my mess wasn’t due to me being lazy but just having too much inventory that wasn’t serving me and than I could handle . Finally everything else is also falling into place ..Thank you so much!
I got my I.C.E. binder idea from a client, who kept key documents in a red binder, with page protectors & Velcro-closing pockets to hold everything securely. Her family all knew that if anything happened to her where she was laid up in hospital or unable to manage her affairs for any length of time, the things they needed to reference were in the binder. It came in handy more than once as she got older.
I donated a lot of crafts books to the library that I had good intentions of making things from. But I finally said to myself if you haven’t done anything with them give it up and quit moving them around. I started doing this now with cooking magazines and putting those in the community room in my apartment building and the ladies really enjoyed them
Thanks. I needed this! I just moved and I’m mentally and physically just exhausted when it comes to the task of unpacking and reorganizing in the new place. I worked so hard in my old place decluttering, organizing and making it functional for my family and beautiful for selling, and we had an offer on the first day of showings! I used a lot of your advice, and it really helped. But now I feel like I’m starting over because the exact organizing systems I’d figured out won’t necessarily work in the new place. I’m having a hard time even thinking about unpacking now. So this video helped give me a spark of motivation, which I’ve been needing!!! Thanks!
I really appreciate this. My family of three recently sold every and moved to a STUTIO apartment. I always saw myself as not being organized. Watching this, I realized I'm already doing a lot of these. Thank you
Thanks Dawn!!! I just signed up for the conference and the lifetime access because I would like to help others in this area of life as a ministry. I wish I had these principles in place when my kids were young and homeschooling. So excited!!!
We're moving into our new house next week and I'm so excited to organise it!!! This is our forever home so any items that don't fit, can't be displayed etc will be gone!!
Started watching your videos recently and they have inspired me to declutter...I have a house full of boxes and bags of "Stuff "...Was moving things from place to place and never finding what I needed...Just need to get rid of what is in the boxes now...Feeling overwhelmed but small steps and a gradual process...Best Wishes to you and your family...
I have colored my hair for years. And years. I rarely use the conditioner that comes with. It just went in the drawer of the small dresser in the bathroom. I bought some small trays at $ store and put them all in there, along with some extra gloves and sunscreen bottles. Neat and tidy. Did the same with the top drawer. Now antibiotics, medicated creams, band aids etc all have a neat little tray. Sometimes I open the drawer just to look at how neat it is and I smile. Thank you.
I did "memory bins" for all my children and grandchildren. We have 9 children and soon to be 25 grandbabies. Purging gets more difficult for those of us who have been married for years and have large families. I have resorted to going to thrift stores for seasonal decorations or for old beautiful dishes. I then donate them back after their use. It gives me variety without hoarding. Works for me!
I started out my decluttering journey with the “spark joy” and then after a little time went by went through everything again and figured out if I’d still use it or hold onto it for “one day” or my “fantasy self” then I came across your “do I want to manage this item”or this amount of clothes and what do I actually need. Wow what a difference it made!! I got ride of a suitcase and 2 trash bags worth of clothes plus a bunch of kitchen items that I don’t use but kept because I spent money on it. Your guilt free timer is brilliant!! Thank you Dawn!! 🙏🏻❤️
Love, love, love this. I am on this journey of continual improvement on how to make my life and home function more effectively. I watch these videos for motivation to get going when I don't feel like it. Thank you
Congratulations and thank-you Dawn ! You e changed my life and viewpoint. Seeing myself as a tidy person and having mastery of my home, and stuff, has brought me peace, and helped me in every facet of life. Bless you and your wonderful family.
Thank you for all of your work and content here. The sheer amount of stuff I got rid of the past months... Even just when taking care of the first obvious layer of clutter, the amount is mind-blowing and liberating at the same time. So proud of myself. So thankful for your messages, mantras, tipps etc. Not just in this specific video.
Love this. I can totally relate with the labels for sure. I see past labels on past containers and for me its a reminder when i see other things in it that I failed. I'm really enjoying the concept of a memory bins. We are a very sentimental family and there are are 8 total. Some have very neat and unique talents and special needs. Having the memory him is a huge game changer for me.
Yep, I sorted without labels, now I can't find something I KNOW I put in a really safe place and I need to use. I just started with paper labels hung on string so I can change them easliy if I want to. Also, give yourself permission to experiment. I donated half my clothes and put the rest back in my drawers and couldn't find what I wanted, so I have gone to the style of rolling pants and shirts (so it looks like you are looking into a wine box full of wine bottles) ... I fit more into each drawer and I can see at a glance exactly which item is which without having to dig through piles of shirts or pants. Love it!
Sign up for the Free Get Organized HQ Conference here: cli.re/free-event
Related: My organized House Tour Video: ruclips.net/video/qP7R_cvgwYs/видео.html
Watch he playlist for the other organizing videos here: cli.re/Get-Organized -- and THANK YOU for your support! It means more than you know!!!!!! - Dawn
Hear hear!!!
Where did you get the cute printable graphics you use for labeling boxes, bins, etc.?
@@aprilfearon3484 I make those using the Avery Print and Design Tool online and just random clip art that I find :)
I’m the opposite of minimal, I’ve inherited lots of good stuff, and what to do with. Worse I have another house to be cleaned out sadly my mother in law passed way. I’ve learn and learning from you. I’m keeping the clean out simple not to be overwhelmed like you’ve said. Trying to dispose of a large trash bag everyday and close the door after 15~60 minutes. You have helped me be happier and not as stressful.
I’m excited for your keynote session ❤️❤️❤️ and signed up for the all-access. Much less expensive today than when I added it last year. Helpful then so I figured grab it now. Speakers were very good last year so I’m sure you’re in great company this year! (btw - I have no stake in the Get Organized HQ world so this is just as a fan of the event.)
My newest bin solution:
A care bin for every pet. I own 4 cats and 2 freeroaming bunnies, that are all rescued and have different handicaps. In the bins are the medications, care supplies and a sheet with medical information, contact of their doctor and instructions, in case something happens to me and a stranger needs to take care of them.
Billy (my 15 year old cat) was found in the apartment with his deceased owner, nobody knew anything about his medical history or were to get this information from. It took us almost 2 weeks to figure out, what his medical condition was. I learned from that experience.
Our house was trashed in a flood about 25 years ago and everything had mud on it. So that gave me a life motto for decluttering. Would I clean mud off this?
That’s good!
😂 I love this
That is brilliant! One that helps me is, "do I want to move this later?" Often, it's no.
Ohhhh.... GOOD ONE!
Love your thought process on that. I've got to find something that works. I live on a mountain.
I'm definitely one of those people that the, "does this spark joy?" Question doesn't work for....little things make me happy, but clutter is debilitating for me. So the idea of, "do I want to manage this?" Is way more effective!❤️ Love your videos!
So is what you're saying, perhaps a a few *too* many things "spark joy"? 😆 Think I'm in the same boat. 🙋♀️ Oh, but I know how quickly it all adds up. 😣🤪
I really like “would I buy this again?”
🙋 Me too!
Ohhhh, yes!! “Do I Want to Manage This?” Now I need to use that phrase and declutter again!
@@tiffanywake5070 i use also only that question 😉
I have one tip for the kitchen, as far as, small appliances or tools, if it takes longer to clean than using a basic tool, get rid of it. That's how I keep my kitchen at a minimum.
Yes! Love this!!!
🔨 Hit the nail on the head with this one!
We had to buy a new range with a smaller storage drawer. I had to remove nonessential cooking ware and box extras. Then, nicely told hubby to shop from the box.
Ha, we stopped at a garage sale and my husband was like-look at this apple/potato peeler that looks handy! I said I have a pairing knife that works on everything -no thanks!
@Sandy Seffrood It depends on how often you do apples. At harvest time, my peeler corer slicer gets A Lot of use and only takes a few more minutes than a knife would to clean.
I like the clip where Dawn’s husband puts the drill up on top of the fridge and flashes the most facetious face… Leave me tools where me want to and you can’t reach bc you’re too short. Priceless.
We live in our starter home and we don't plan on moving for several years, but when I'm decluttering I like to ask myself "is this something I want to go through the hassle of moving," because I hate moving! This mindset helps me let go of a lot more.
Great point! I'm using the same idea in my basement. We are working on remodeling, which means cleaning out the basement. If it's not something I would put in the new space, there's no point in keeping it at all. Our next move will be in about 9 years when we retire and downsize. The more I can eliminate now, the easier that will be too.
We moved to Tennessee from Michigan a few years ago. We took a leap of faith and didn’t have a house lined up yet. All our stuff went into a storage unit. I asked myself a similar question. “Do I want to pay to keep this in storage”? We really got rid of a lot before moving. And I STILL had several boxes worth of stuff that I donated once we found our house!
And I intend to downsize in a few years, so already letting go of extra furniture (and sometimes what it stored) and other things because I know the smaller home won’t have room for it. In some ways that’s very helpful.
We have decluttered so much we decided not to sell and stay where we are ♥️
When you're packing to move that's the best time to get rid of the things you're not using; you don't have to take it all with you
You have such a humble, precious spirit. It is so sweet to hear you say, “I love you,” at the end of your videos. That always warms my heart. Thank you for the joy you bring to everyone! Hello to the cute kiddo peeking in the window!
Ditto!
and don't we all just love her, she is the sweetest
❤
Yes, we love Dawn Tom and the kids
In all honesty this woman is so full of BULLSHIT that saying she loves you is a complete joke. I've news
for you she doesn't know you or the sky over you. She is only saying it so that gullible people will
keep watching thus swelling her bank account.
My mom taught me to ask if I wanted to dust or clean something before buying. That cut down a lot of clutter coming in.
Love this! Thank you!
I have a wise mum! She cuts off the clutter from the root!
You should feel proud. You've worked hard and have helped so many people! 👋👍🥰
Thank you Sandra, I really appreciate that!!!
I’m 66 years old and have always been an ‘organizer’ and very good at it. 8 years ago we moved cross country and I had to get rid of TONS of stuff. I cried several times as I saw things go out the door. However, I soon began to feel to freedom and stress lifted off my shoulders as I had so much less to manage. Since then, I’ve continued on the journey to live with less and shop intentionally. I use the container method allowing a certain amount of space for specific items. I also always decide what is “prime space” and only allow things I use all the time into those easy to reach places. Thanks for your inspiring videos!
Ohh. I like that "prime space."
Love the prime space!
I like hearing from your experience that you have freedom and less stress from having less to manage.
Yes, the, "Do I want to manage it?" question has been THE game changer for me!!
Decluttering, for me, absolutely has happened in layers. After I went through my entire house, I thought I had gotten rid of everything. But I went through it again a few months later and realized that there were things I hadn't used since the last declutter, so I was finally ok with letting them go. This has happened multiple times now as my tolerance for clutter has decreased, and every time I am able to get rid of more than I thought I would.
I agree 100%!!! The second time through was so easy because it was obvious that something I considered a "keep" 6 months ago still wasn't used and was much easier to let go. I also love the idea that a pile of stuff that was sitting in a box for a year was already "in quarantine" that whole year and I never went searching for it, so it's much easier to admit it's not needed.
Yes. Me too ! I’m in the middle of it at the moment. I’ll go back again and do another sweep again. But I think I’ll need a few goes at it. !!
I think the first pass through - for most of us - there’s so much stuff it’s overwhelming. But yes it’s been similar for me. Sometimes only days after I’ve been through a space I will realize I should have gotten rid of a specific item, so I go get it right away.
I did the exact same thing! Took me 3 years and about 6 times through the whole house to get to a place where I can manage
There are cupboards in our house I have been through 5 times.On the third pass I thought, ‘why did I not think to declutter this already?’ On the fourth I was like, ‘okay HOW did I not see this can go?’ 😅
On the fifth pass I was flabbergasted that sure enough - I found quite a few more items to declutter 😱💪😂
“Done is so much better than perfect” keeps me going and brings me confidence in what I do!)
I’ve just started a time will tell bin for clothes, bags and shoes. I have finally got my wardrobe down to absolute basics and feel like a weight has been lifted off. Those last items I was really struggling with have been put in timeout!😂 . I have just sorted through all my Christmas stuff and given all my spare gift bags, cards, paper etc to my mum who had none. It is amazing how much better I feel. I’ve also started to just buy the food etc I need. Not storing loads and having to check dates etc constantly. I am amazed at how different I feel. Can’t thank you enough. This community is very supportive and safe.😊❤
Hi Dawn! You are my favourite "de-clutterer / organizer"! I recommend you to everyone I know that needs to get their space in order. I'm a certified home stager, so i can appreciate the decluttering piece of the process very much! Two things that "stuck" with me from your lessons are 1. "You don't waste money throwing something out - you already wasted the money when you bought it", and 2. "Do you really want to continue managing this stuff for the next dozen years?" Thanks for all you do.. Marlene
There’s my ah-ha moment! You don’t waste money throwing something out- you already wasted it when you bought it.
This will help me so much.
I’ve been “trying to turn into a minimalist” for 4 years but I did it crazy slow because I too do NOT stick with anything. About a year ago all of a sudden I was like “wow I am so organized and clean” and it clicked that I FINALLY crossed the line into minimum!! And now I’m 💯 in!!! It’s amazing!!! My kitchen is clean every night. I can keep up with the laundry 🤯 it’s still so unreal!!
Way to go! I’ve gone through some of the same changes! My kitchen is clean every night, too. I reset rooms when I’m done by putting things back where they belong. I even do my laundry on a schedule instead of putting it off til I’m out of clean clothes. I’m really proud of myself. Dawn has helped me SO much!
I too am working through a 4 year plan to declutter. It started when my youngest went to college. Just starting the 3rd year. The pace is good for me since I was a deliberate shopper, so now I work at a slow and deliberate pace, it suites my personality.
For the past 30 years I always gave to salvation army, the difference now is I'm not buying new stuff.
@@donnaw3195, Yes only buying what you need, will use; instead of wants, /or oh it's on sale!?.. Am I right Donna W?? Yes your mind set changes! I feel you. Congrats to you on your journey and adventure on: Only keeping what you use, need, love!! Letting the rest go.!! Blessings. ☺
funny about the same here. i mean we started in old place moved to bigger and am like great oportunity to declutter more. and it just kept happening for so long. we just finished living room. super minimal. kitchen fully laballed organized and me and my partner like oh finaly getting there. :)
That's why I'm letting go a good majority of things. It's always been overwhelming but after circumstances that led to burnout, I've had to really reconsider what things I want to focus on in life. I'm dusting the furniture but I can't get in the shower. Not having a car really made me think about how much I'm taking in because I have a hard time getting rid of it once I have it.
I just love your humility. Christ's love shines through. xxx
The refrigerator containers are a game changer for me! Thank you. Nothing gets buried anymore.
My kids are 40, 33, and 27 years old. I kept a memory box for each of them from day one. The bins were larger than yours, Dawn, but what a treasure to pass those on to my adult children. My grandkids have now worn some of their parents’ special outfits for photos. What a treasure it is to them and to me to see a photo of my child alongside my grandchild wearing the same baby booties, or ball cap, or Sunday dress. ❤️ They love looking at special school projects. The belly laughs when they read what the wrote back then are so worth the effort I took to compile them. 💙❤️❤️
One unexpected thing happened while decluttering and organizing... I repurposed a curio cabinet. I love the cabinet itself but it had become a dusty housing for unnecessary items. So while giving it a very thorough cleaning, it reminded me of an apothecary style cabinet. Now I have my essential oil books in it (just a couple) my back-up supply of oils, my Bible and business books (again, just a couple) It actually serves a great purpose now and is very pleasing to the eye. I feel like I have a new piece of furniture as well as an organized area for important items.
Yes. Every time I clear up space I was storing useless items, my used items have a home instead of a table top, or a pile on the floor
LET'S NOT SKIP AD FOR DAWN'S CHANNEL!!! We love you Dawn... 🥰😘😍
Everything you say is true. 2 packed trash bags going to dump. 8 boxes of expired cake mixes 🙄
6 hand mixers. 3 are missing parts - they are keeping the cake mixes company in the trash bag. A broken ice cream maker. It’s hard to move in with someone who won’t let go. But since he doesn’t cook he won’t miss them.
I feel like a new person. Thanks so much!
Years ago I started with Nike orange shoeboxes to organize my bathroom shelves. I think it’s time for a Target bin upgrade. You inspire me every week. Good luck at the conference.
I did this too!
@@MarielaMerino p
Oh my goodness I used one for organizing as well! lol
Love the face looking in the window at the end. “Is She done filming yet???”
Haha! Right?! I thought the same thing! She's trained her kiddos well! No one came barging in and interrupting for a snack or to say they're "bored". They just went back to playing outside in the sunshine for a bit longer! 🌞 👧
I know! “Can we come in yet?”
Me too!! So cute!😊
I saw that too! 😂
I didn’t even notice that!
I love the inventory management perspective. Cuts to the chase. Less and less becomes more Space, Time, Peace = totally worth letting go.
I have a file folder labeled: If not here then where? A home for random papers until I find them a home.😜😁
"Do I want to manage this" really reminds me to not hang on to excessive things. Thank you so much for all the life changing advice you share in your videos! One of your littles was peeking through the window at the end of this video 🤗 hi!
lol she was probably waiting to see if she could come back inside!
I swear there's something about listening to your instruction and tips that is so incredibly motivating, that it always puts me in the mood to declutter. How that happens, I don't know but it's amazing and I will forever be listening to your videos. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and flicking the switch on our brains. PS, after listening just now, I cleared out three drawers and a huge section of an armoire. I have a big box for the donation center tomorrow and about 20 lb of garbage. Best part, Life feels lighter. Thanks Dawn!!
Thank you even though my house is still a mess I'm slowly using your ideas and making it better and easier
It takes time to form new habits and as Dawn says it takes time to see if system s are going to work.
… And, real people still live there!
(PS. I love your name. I saved it for 5 babies…. But I had all boys!!). ☺️
You have saved my sanity!!
Bless you and yours for being the person who puts it in ways that finally clicked with me to the whole concept! You have a gift of being persistently, consistently able to explain and utilize the resources and tapped into the Human Psyche that answers the whys behind most of the current struggles. I feel so fortunate to have found you and through you , the network of others. God bless you and your beautiful family. You and your husband are truly a godsend and an inspiration in healthy relationships and living a sane, healthy, modern life.
Helpful way to tell how precious something is to you - put it on the floor, in the way. If after 1 or 2 days (or hopefully hours) you are still willing to skirt around it, it may be a keeper. If being careful of it is a pain for you then let it go. It sounds odd but I've done it many times and it quickly tells me if I love it enough to be inconvenienced for it.
I found my grandmother's dishes in my attic. Memories flooded me and I couldn't stop smiling. Did they bring me joy? Absolutely! So I should keep them right? Uh, no. They were ridiculously ugly and I would never use them. I donated them. It was after that I stopped using the "does it bring me joy" method. LOL
Hello Sandy 👋
I do like how you speak about our possessions as “inventory” because it really helps me understand how much I shuffle things around the house instead of getting rid of things I don’t use! Touch it once , decide where it goes and that’s it!
I love this. I was always labeled the messy one in my family...in the past 20 years I have slowly become a tidy organized person. You have helped me so much to finish systems I have started and changing my mindset to realize that simplified living makes it so much easier to be tidy and organized. And thank you for the free ticket link. So excited.
Hello Theresa how are you doing?
The quarantine bin you have mentioned in past videos works well for us. My husband especially likes the idea. He grew up with the mindset that everything needs to be kept “just in case”. It’s hard for him to let go of things. However, he is excited for this new method of putting not used items in a box and if in 30 days it’s not pulled out and used, he is happy to donate it!
I like to declutter after my kids birthdays. I tell them if they want to have room for the new things they received we need to get rid of things they don't use or don't like anymore. We just did this yesterday and we got rid of so much stuff! It makes me so proud to see my kids using their decluttering muscles.
Thinking of things as inventory and managing things have really helped me reduce the clutter in my home. I love organizing but I’m not great at it. I just do what works for me 😅
“Do I want to manage this?” & “the mental to-do list” really hit home with me and light bulbs went crazy in my brain. These 2 statements are IT for me.
Loved the "peeker"! Even at my advanced age (!) I worry about being distracted/interrupted by People and their Needs. I love that you have carved out your space (even if it requires editing) to do important things, and that your children (and spouse) are still part of your space behind the scenes. Real life, real living process.
Wonderful as always. And it so cute - kids peeking in at the end. Your kids are so blessed to be experiencing the benefits of this. I came pretty late to the game...
68,000 views in 16 hours - I’m not the only one excited by this topic! Love your tips Dawn! 💕
Use what containers you have: I remember when you talked about paper clutter and people were asking about what container you used and where you got it.
It made me concerned. People seemed in too much of a hurry to assume that they needed to buy that special box that was just like you had. The thing is, I bet most of them had nice containers that became available during the decluttering phase. I've seen people who used vintage purse to hold there command center paper (do on Sunday paperwork). That was really cute
I love that idea !
We’ve been trained to buy solutions to problems and we usually try to buy just the right thing instead of doing the work (chefs are asked which knives they use, photographers which lenses, as if we can buy a shortcut to becoming experts). I’ve had a “time will tell” pile in a specific spot in my cupboard to test out the idea and honestly don’t know that I actually need a container at all.
I helped 2 8 year old girls declutter & reset their bedroom this week. The look they gave me when I said, "Anything you give away or throw away today, you NEVER ever have to clean up again!", was priceless. The room looked super after & they were sooooo happy.
The one girl asked if I could come over again very soon to help them clean up again. I told her I'd love to come over again to see how nicely they've put things back in the homes they helped to create for their items. We'll see how it goes!
Hello Marlene
Having a specific memory bin for each one in our family was a huge “Aha!” moment for me! I literally stopped decluttering, found an accessible, yet poorly utilized closet in our house, installed wire shelving, purchased and labeled covered bins for each shelf and voila!! Decluttering is SO much easier now! 💕
Hi Kathleen 👋
How are you doing?
Hey Dawn… I’ve recently discovered your channel and LOVE it… you are so encouraging and helpful!!! I’m almost 70 and have felt overwhelmed for 20 years! BUT, since watching a few of your videos, I’ve began to tackle my ‘problem!’ THANK YOU seems so small for the help you’ve been to me… all I can say is may God richly bless you as you have blessed others❣️💕🙏🏻 God is good and you’re truly a gift from God!
My kids LOVE ramen noodles, and my son would live off them if I would let him, so I tend to buy the packs in boxes of 12, and when the boxes are empty, I pretty-fy the boxes with contact paper and use them for all kinds of stuff around the house! I also put contact paper on the boxes that canned goods come in/on in the grocery stores, and will use them for organizing in my pantry. The boxes work just fine without the contact paper, but they look so much better with it!
I think memory bins are so helpful. I have three kiddos (they are in their twenties now), my daughter recently came across an old choir shirt she wanted to keep and asked can I put this in my memory box so it's not in her closet anymore. Took five minutes to move it and it is safe.
I'm definitely planning to implement that. I think she did say one time that's probably her TOP tip.
I love your little peanut looking through the window....."Is Mom done yet??? Can we come inside now???" Too funny!
I came to comments to say exactly the same thing! I loved spotting the peering face at the window 😀
That’s what I noticed too! So cute!🥰🤣
@@IRISHLASS273 are you actually serious? Those kids probably have a better childhood than most. So much fresh air, trips, time with parents, lack of consumerism. It's just a kid peering at a window while mum is working!
@@IRISHLASS273 this may be a silly question but why are you even watching and commenting on the video if you feel this way and think so little of her fans? If it's not for you move on, there's no need to be rude. If you have the time and energy to spend trolling RUclips videos why don't you put that to better use - seek some real causes to get worked up about and see what you can do to make things better for people/animals/the environment.
@@jenny37able
I've always wondered who are the people that hit the dislike button on great sites like this.....now we know! Great comment to her, too....but I bet she'll just keep hating!
If you have trouble seeing small labels first cut a strip of painters tape ( blue or green ) and place the strip on your bin then place your label from your label maker in the middle of the colored tape. It peels off easily when you want to remove it.
I actually was just using the painters tape for labeling but the black sharpie was always too dark. Now I will be switching up to a chalkboard pen, yay!
OMG, love the comment about does it spark joy. I felt the same way! Way too many things spark joy and that is why my house has become a cluttered mess. I try to remind myself and more so my husband that I want to live life, enjoy life and stop being paralyzed by all of our STUFF. It is just too mentally exhausting and taking a serious toll on my mental state as of lately. So...Hoping and praying one day we will be free of our STUFF and enjoying a clutter free home and being able to enjoy the things that mean the most to us (Family!). All wonderful tips! Thank you!
Hi Erin 👋
I sent the “getting started” video series to my mom yesterday. Called her this morning and she said “that Dawn is just the GREATEST!! The way she explains it makes so much sense. I have already cleaned out 4 boxes of stuff!” After 1 day, 4 boxes from just one room of decluttering! Thanks Dawn! Not only for helping my mother decluttering, but now she understands when I say I don’t want anymore “stuff”
Hello April 👋
How are you doing?
Just wonderful Dawn. Thank you so much for all your videos. They are a highlight in my week. I loved your gorgeous lacy top. Black doesn’t have to be boring. Very professional video as usual. Everything about the video was so enlightening and encouraging. Congrats on being chosen as a keynote speaker. They certainly knew what they were doing when they chose you. Wishing you all the best.
Love the idea of memory bin
I absolutely loved seeing Maggie peep through window at the end!😊 Children are so fun!🥰
Love the kids peaking in to see if mom is done at the end of the video.
lol. I'm always losing things like my eyeglass case, waterbottle, keys or phone, or chapstick, or note,. So,
I decided I needed to have a SPECIFIC PLACE to put these things when I sit down. In my case, it's at an often cluttered work desk. So, as I was decluttering, I found a small wooden box (smaller than a shoebox). I painted it glossy black and using a white paint pen, I wrote on it , "Where did I put my....." So now, every time I sit at my desk, that's where my items go while I'm working. And the second I start looking for something and think, "Where did I put my...." BAM! I remember instantly. :) I'm so proud of it. lol
You've been such a great teacher and inspiration, Dawn. Your channel has really helped me (and others) break through obstacles to reduce inventory to make life easier to manage. Thank you💞
I'm proud of how far your channel has come! And congrats on being a speaker at this conference🥳
Another Great video. I loved some of those ideas.
I just unburied my label maker after like 10 years and it still works. Its also been super interesting to see how responsive the people in my house have been to labels.
The spark joy seems to lean to kindness and caring. Now me, I'm mad at my extra stuff! I want to poke it in the eye and kick it in the can!
😂 That's hilarious! I can totally relate to your comment!
The times I attempted to Marie Kondo my home, I have never been SO indifferent or mad at everything I own 😂
Maybe you can be in the new category I want Cass to make for my husband : Horned Beetle. They’re mostly about kicking stuff to the curb. 😂
Dawn, what completely flipped my mindset and has allowed me to get rid of so much stuff that has made my home stressful is the BBQ tongs. That's right the video you did where u talked about why you were getting rid of perfectly good tongs that you could use should your existing set break. But if they break you could easily buy a replacement. I immediately thought of things in the home that I was storing because they are useful. I got up and pulled out the 2nd & 3rd bottle opener. All of the boxes of leftover screws and nails. The 2nd 3 hole punch etc. etc. That video just shifted my mindset on stuff in general. It's just stuff. Thank you for what you do!
which video is the bbq tongs?
@@sallyp.6325 Its the video titled something like How to Declutter an Overwhelming Space. 😁
I loved your little girl peeking thru the window to see if you're done & she could come in now. I also love watching & listening to you. You are so sweet & I always get this "I feel good" feeling from your videos. You're so encouraging in all aspects. I feel like I know you & we're friends. I look forward to seeing you each time. Thank You So Much & God Bless You & Yours'
Hi Sharon 👋
I did this. I used cardboard box bottoms or tops as my bins and when I found my system worked after some weeks/months, I replaced them with awesome, sturdy, see-through versions. Saved me a ton of money by not making mistakes.
"Do I want to manage this?" is SO helpful when decluttering. Learning my organizing style really helped me know what type of things/containers to buy to be successful at organizing in our home. Great video, Dawn!
Hello 👋
How are you doing?
The homeless bin really helps us. My husband and kids do not know how to create homes and organize. Having a place for them (and me) to just chuck it really helps clear my head of all the visual clutter that can become accumulated on your surfaces with time. When it's time to empty it its very easy to have it all in once place. I can pluck all the stuff that goes to one room out and take it. Instead of grabbing a few things here then finding more things there that should have went into the same room that I was just in! It's also permission to not be perfect and allows you "slip up" and most importantly RELAX! That's what this is all about isn't it? The opportunity to relax and just enjoy your home.
The idea of layers in decluttering has helped so much. I now realize it doesn't need to be the finished product right away. It's less and that's better, and as I get stronger with decluttering I will revisit and thin this area out more. Thank you for your help and positive, realistic attitude 😊.
Knowing my clutterbug style was great in itself, but even better was the realization that the way I do things is not "wrong" and there are so many others just like me. The permission that gave me to BE the way I am, and make systems that work for me, really helps me. I am the type that needs to have a fast, easy place to toss things (and easy place to find things) or they will end up on a horizontal surface, especially if I think I might use them again soon. I'm still trying to figure out how to quickly and confidently categorize things because I find myself spending a lot of time trying to decide "where SHOULD this go?" "what should I use this bin for?" etc and it really eats into what little time I have for actually doing the work. I like how you and the ladies who offered these tips talked about just doing what you can, working with what you have, and letting it all be a work in progress. I tend to have all or nothing thinking, and it can make things feel impossible sometimes, which leads to not even starting and then feeling bad about not starting! 😵💫 Anyway, I posted this so others can really see, in case they haven't yet, that they are not alone! Progress, not perfection. We can do this. 👏💖
Just because you’re not naturally tidy or organized doesn’t mean you can’t learn the skills and find systems that work. I think you’re the perfect person to teach others about this topic, Dawn, because it was something you’ve had to learn and because you can speak to people who are not crickets.
I've never added labels--but I absolutely love the thought of it helping with not having to organize it all over again the next time. Great tip! 💕
I always hated labels, felt like i should know where things go, and what is in every box /basket. Truth is, i don't... And a label would be helpful. It's just that i change my mind so often about where things should go. Maybe those chalk labels would be ideal to start.
Thank you for all you do for us. Really. If it weren’t for you and Steph at Sec slob, I would’ve thrown in the towel a long time ago. I guess I really want to thank you for being real “I’m not an organized person” “I always thought I was lazy” - all the statements I’ve made to myself over the years. You make a difference in the world, Dawn!🥰
Ive found some of the Sec Slob content helpful too. I noticed your channel includes animals so I just wanted to pre warn you (in case you haven’t watched it) that one of Steph’s videos from 6 months ago (organising storage in her basement) shows a bear she’d forgotten about in a bin bag. I wish I hadn’t seen that video so I thought I would give you a heads up in case it’s not your cup of tea either 💐
Hello 👋 how are you ?
I feel great! I decluttered my plastic container cupboard with my husband's help. All the covers and unused containers are going to our church. One shelf vs. 3 areas! Thanks for your inspiration.
Three things that have helped me organize are 1) declutter by asking myself “is this going to add value to my life (my goals) in the future,” 2) give my overwhelmed self and mixed big family a break by organizing like a butterfly or ladybug until I have the stamina and vision to reevaluate and organize further. This also helps me gauge the amount of space that I realistically need to house groups of related items. Finally, 3) I think about where I use items and then store them LITERALLY within arm’s reach. Then, I have taken almost all the effort out of putting things away. I FEEL AMAZING... and I am actually just being strategically lazy. HA! Take that, clutter!!! XOXOXOXOX
I finally took the Clutter Bug test just now and it really nailed it! Wow.
"Use it or lose it" (in Dawn's voice) is my go-to. It helps me to snap out of the humming and hawing or reasoning with myself as to why I should hold onto something. Thank you for all your inspiration, and hope that a house can be manageable and peaceful with kids!
Thank you Dawn for your great big smile and sunny attitude, as you share the inspiring, decluttering tips and tricks. The change in our two bedroom 1000sq ft condo, is fantastic.
Love you Dawn 🤗❤️🌷
Because I found your channel and practiced so many good tips,.I've decluttered over 50% off our home. Still a work in progress....
I was wearing a shirt I did not enjoy this morning. When I realized how much I didn't enjoy it I went to the bedroom to change. But I asked myself , "what other shirts do I not enjoy"? I've made my wardrobe so much smaller in the past year it was simple to go through quickly and find those items. I found 5 shirts that are now in a bag waiting for donation. I also took a close look and saw that I had enough. No need to shop to replace those items. So simple, no agonizing over the decision to declutter them. Thanks for all the encouragement Dawn!
When you were showing bins I had an epiphany. I used to see shelves as something to fill with stuff. I realized I became triumphant over stuff when I learned to see the shelves as places to store the things I want.
Shelves used to be entities that demanded to be filled. Now they are servants that are there to help
I'm 52 and I use to be very organized, got rid of stuff I wasn't using anymore, never had a thing on my counter tops. I actually use to vacuum and mop every morning, big time neat freak. I'm a cricket, I took the test. The reason was my husband moved us about every two years and I did not want the headache of packing so much stuff. My husband passed away, I remarried and my now husband hates to move. So, I started holding on to everything. I went from one extreme to another. A few months ago I felt I was drowning. God sent you and I'm so grateful. I started in the kitchen and have been working my way around the house. I'm not close to being done, but I see the light at the end of the tunnel where it use to look like a black hole. Words can not say thank you loud enough.
You gave me the power of 5 minutes. Yesterday I 5 minuted myself a LOT. I gave myself a one time restart per room for a max of 10 minutes. If I didn't get it how I "wanted", I still walked away. But 5 or 10 minutes got it done where ever I was. I even got a couple of dresser drawers to a state of peace.
I Love that! "Do I want to continue to manage this!?". Great question!
i listen to you while I declutter - your videos motivate me so much. I’m so blessed to have found you. I finally understand that my mess wasn’t due to me being lazy but just having too much inventory that wasn’t serving me and than I could handle .
Finally everything else is also falling into place ..Thank you so much!
The emergency binder is a great idea! Thanks, Connie!
I got my I.C.E. binder idea from a client, who kept key documents in a red binder, with page protectors & Velcro-closing pockets to hold everything securely. Her family all knew that if anything happened to her where she was laid up in hospital or unable to manage her affairs for any length of time, the things they needed to reference were in the binder. It came in handy more than once as she got older.
I donated a lot of crafts books to the library that I had good intentions of making things from. But I finally said to myself if you haven’t done anything with them give it up and quit moving them around. I started doing this now with cooking magazines and putting those in the community room in my apartment building and the ladies really enjoyed them
Hello Pamela 👋
How are you doing today?
Thanks. I needed this! I just moved and I’m mentally and physically just exhausted when it comes to the task of unpacking and reorganizing in the new place. I worked so hard in my old place decluttering, organizing and making it functional for my family and beautiful for selling, and we had an offer on the first day of showings! I used a lot of your advice, and it really helped. But now I feel like I’m starting over because the exact organizing systems I’d figured out won’t necessarily work in the new place. I’m having a hard time even thinking about unpacking now. So this video helped give me a spark of motivation, which I’ve been needing!!! Thanks!
Minimize until your inventory is manageable then you don’t have to worry about organization! This is PROFOUND and makes so much sense!!
I really appreciate this. My family of three recently sold every and moved to a STUTIO apartment. I always saw myself as not being organized. Watching this, I realized I'm already doing a lot of these.
Thank you
Thanks Dawn!!! I just signed up for the conference and the lifetime access because I would like to help others in this area of life as a ministry. I wish I had these principles in place when my kids were young and homeschooling. So excited!!!
We're moving into our new house next week and I'm so excited to organise it!!!
This is our forever home so any items that don't fit, can't be displayed etc will be gone!!
Hello Lorna
Thank you dawn I love listening to you as cleaning and decluttering you give me inspiration everyday
Started watching your videos recently and they have inspired me to declutter...I have a house full of boxes and bags of "Stuff "...Was moving things from place to place and never finding what I needed...Just need to get rid of what is in the boxes now...Feeling overwhelmed but small steps and a gradual process...Best Wishes to you and your family...
I have colored my hair for years. And years. I rarely use the conditioner that comes with. It just went in the drawer of the small dresser in the bathroom. I bought some small trays at $ store and put them all in there, along with some extra gloves and sunscreen bottles. Neat and tidy. Did the same with the top drawer. Now antibiotics, medicated creams, band aids etc all have a neat little tray. Sometimes I open the drawer just to look at how neat it is and I smile. Thank you.
I did "memory bins" for all my children and grandchildren. We have 9 children and soon to be 25 grandbabies. Purging gets more difficult for those of us who have been married for years and have large families. I have resorted to going to thrift stores for seasonal decorations or for old beautiful dishes. I then donate them back after their use. It gives me variety without hoarding. Works for me!
I started out my decluttering journey with the “spark joy” and then after a little time went by went through everything again and figured out if I’d still use it or hold onto it for “one day” or my “fantasy self” then I came across your “do I want to manage this item”or this amount of clothes and what do I actually need. Wow what a difference it made!! I got ride of a suitcase and 2 trash bags worth of clothes plus a bunch of kitchen items that I don’t use but kept because I spent money on it. Your guilt free timer is brilliant!! Thank you Dawn!! 🙏🏻❤️
Hello Megan 👋
How are you doing?
Love, love, love this. I am on this journey of continual improvement on how to make my life and home function more effectively. I watch these videos for motivation to get going when I don't feel like it. Thank you
Hello Dawn 👋
Congratulations and thank-you Dawn ! You e changed my life and viewpoint. Seeing myself as a tidy person and having mastery of my home, and stuff, has brought me peace, and helped me in every facet of life. Bless you and your wonderful family.
Excellent! Like your enthusiasm, you spread joy. I will definitely watch you again.👏🏻
Thank you for all of your work and content here. The sheer amount of stuff I got rid of the past months... Even just when taking care of the first obvious layer of clutter, the amount is mind-blowing and liberating at the same time. So proud of myself. So thankful for your messages, mantras, tipps etc. Not just in this specific video.
Love this. I can totally relate with the labels for sure. I see past labels on past containers and for me its a reminder when i see other things in it that I failed. I'm really enjoying the concept of a memory bins. We are a very sentimental family and there are are 8 total. Some have very neat and unique talents and special needs. Having the memory him is a huge game changer for me.
I love listening to dawn minimal mom everyday as cleaning and decluttering.
Yep, I sorted without labels, now I can't find something I KNOW I put in a really safe place and I need to use. I just started with paper labels hung on string so I can change them easliy if I want to. Also, give yourself permission to experiment. I donated half my clothes and put the rest back in my drawers and couldn't find what I wanted, so I have gone to the style of rolling pants and shirts (so it looks like you are looking into a wine box full of wine bottles) ... I fit more into each drawer and I can see at a glance exactly which item is which without having to dig through piles of shirts or pants. Love it!