The fear of making a mistake is definitely one of the things that stop me from making decisions. It's exhausting and creates a lot of problems and suffering. It's always good to see how other people deal with this issue. Thank you, Ana, for your video.
Once again, Ana, you have presented a wonderful example of the tough decisions we sometimes have to make, either de-cluttering or just making other decisions regarding how we move in life. The growth in awareness and discernment you have made over the past few years really shines through. Thank you. All the best to you and Brian as you move into the next phase of your life.
I love your transparency regarding keeping items based on how you viewed yourself. I have done the same when it came to zero waste, sustainable and ecocentric items. I've learned to let them go if they aren't serving me but initially it was difficult because I felt that I should stay committed to the items because of minimalism and the company's ethics.
8 years ago, my husband and I had to move into a much smaller house. We had to declutter about 75 % of our belongings. Fortunately at the time, I read Marie Kondo's book. It was amazing to me.. The sheer volume of items we shared and donated. After settling in our little house, and proceeding with life, there were only 2 things that i had to re-acquire. Keeping things de-cluttered has become almost a hobby of mine. It's an ongoing effort. We are in our 70's now, so i am aware that my time on this earth is limited. When I die, I want our children to have an easy time taking care of our belongings. I keep it organized and streamlined. Hopefully I can continue in this way to the end. 😊
I once owned several beautiful, silk wrap-skirts I had acquired over the years from thrift stores. I loved the way they felt and the enjoyment I had wearing them. They were the first clothing items I had ever truly chosen just for my own happiness. Over the past couple of years though they had become a hindrance to me for a variety of reasons, so I gave them away to a friend's drama class. It was very difficult, but I know it was the right decision.
Oh gods, I had the same issue with the collapsible silicone water bottle I purchased. Seemed like a genius purchase that turned out to be a complete bust. Beautiful and meaningful video. Hope you feel better soon. Good luck and godspeed on your future journey.
I needed to hear your words on this topic. I beat myself up over items I bring into my home that don't work out. I hold on to things that suit a lifestyle I no longer hold, like my office wardrobe. If I ever end up in an office setting again, the trends will have changed and my style will have changed. Just one example in my home which is becoming cluttered around me. What I've been finding myself struggle with in letting some of these items go though is a lack of time to declutter. My free times are spent living, exploring, experiencing. I just don't prioritize my space right now (I haven't left my home much in many years and have rediscovered the joy in experiences) But maybe these are excuses I tell myself for fear of acting on my space.
Wow Ana... Thank you for this idea of asking yourself questions why we still are holding on some things. I will definitely use this tool with tomorrow's decluttering.
I recently made the decision to declutter some dresses that I bought last year. I had this idea that I would wear them but they just aren't my style - a little too long and a little too low. I felt bad about it, like maybe I would turn into a person who would wear them but it's just not my personality and I'm glad to not see them taking up space in my closet anymore.
I Ana, i find it hard to let go of items I have knitted years, ago and no longer wear. Watching your video today has helped me to let go and release them. Thank you Ana. Take care Gale x
Yes, you have to let things go. Things that happened to you, that´s harder for me. Memories that are like ghosts in your mind. Are going to move away or stay, Ana? Thank you for your wise words.
You are right. We are in constant change, and no amount of possessions will keep us from moving forward. Sometimes, being tied to material items, ideas, and feelings keeps us stuck in places we don't belong to anymore. Congratulations on all the progress you are making in letting things go that don't serve the YOU of the present. Best wishes.
Thank you for sharing these beautiful stories, Ana. We all experience attachment to the past, and each instance of letting go of something that no longer resonates is so freeing. When someone else really was appreciates it, I feel joy. The biggest "letting go" for me was when I was the only one left, and I sold my family's place. It was time, and it was affecting my health to stay there. Every goodbye opens a new door! ❤🌼🌸
Dear Ana, I hope you are well, despite your vocal problems? Sometimes we fall out of love with things we thought once we can't live without. I think it's a natural process. At least for me. We change and the things we need/want change along the way. Take care 🙏
Dearest Ana, I like your voice anyway! And I'm so sorry for your linen pants, even if I understand your reasons and I appreciate so much your analysis of the reasons that made you so difficolt to let these things go. I analyzed the reasons why I am sorry for your pants 😂 and I found some interesting answer about me too. Thank you so much for everything you do for us!!! ❤❤❤❤
@@anagoldberg eheheh 😁, I thought they suite perfectly on your body and style. I love how you put the two colors together, and the pants after your personal touch were simply perfect in length and wideness. But... about me I learned that I must let other people be who they want to be (I was thinking about my sons too) and to trust you because I respect you so much and your decision is certainly right for you. I'm so grateful for you to exist and to have you in my life, even if only virtually! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Ah... and I would like to have pants like these too, but unfortunately I'm too big 😅
@@mammaditobia Aww, thank you so much for explaining! And it makes total sense. I've caught myself having similar thoughts and intentions, too. So I understand! 🤗❤ You're the sweetest 🌸
Hi Ana, about 12 years ago, I sold a scrapbook of mine at a flea market. It was a scrapbook of Olivia Newton-John, my favorite singer and a beautiful person I’ve admired since 1974 when I started the scrapbook. I’ve always regretted selling it, and especially when she passed away August 2022. How I would have loved to have that scrapbook, to enjoy it again. But as you said, we carry our memories with us in our hearts and not in our possessions. Thank you, Ana, for reminding me and helping me feel better. By the way, I love the music at the end of your video. It spoke to my heart 🥰
Hi Kathleen, I'm sorry you regret selling the scrapbook. But you're so right to remind yourself that you still have the memories of your love, admiration, and inspiration 🤗
Hello dearest Ana, I think it’s so good we can realize that once something served us doesn’t mean we can’t declutter it as our life changes. You have made wise decisions realizing that your skills are always with you & not in the item. Loved this video as I do all your content. The Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashanah) starts Friday evening & I wish you many blessings & good health & happiness to both you & Brian . Peace, safety & prosperity ❤🙏🇮🇱😘🍏🍯🍎
I’m struggling with this right now. Working on decluttering again, as I still have things stored on my carport and my park managers object. So once again I’m going through boxes. It’s hard, but your videos help. I’m going to think about what you said about letting go of the image you had if yourself. Am I still that person? Good questions to ask. Thanks. All the best to you and Brian.
So happy that you've landed in a good place. You've been such an inspiration to me in my own journey to minimalism and to seek a new life in another country. Much love to you both xx
Ugh I can just imagine the smell and taste of that water bottle! I’ve had similar experience with one (not that brand) and it seems that they are not good for the purpose of drinking from. I also had a silicon ice cube tray, which seemed ideal as the ice cubes could be so easily removed. But the ice tasted nasty.
in the old days, these images of ourself were called 'vanity'. It's not a big crime, in fact it's very human. I like to htink i'm this, i'm that, but it's what causes all my mistakes
Ana, giving these items the respect and consideration that you did before deciding their fate was the most you could do. I hope you felt lightness afterwards. While I was watching your video I was preparing a box of things that no longer serve me to take to some friends with whom I'm having coffee today, in the hope that they will have another life of appreciation, but we can't always do that. I hope your voice is better. Was it the emotion? Xx
I'm really struggling with the decluttering of two things. First, I have a fair amount of jewelry that was given to me that I never wear and probably won't wear. They are items given to me by people who meant well and thought I would really like them, and they're nice items, but I've always been honest with everyone that I don't really wear jewelry (and yet I keep getting if gifted to me). If anyone has feedback on how to let it go mentally, that would be very much appreciated. The second things is ashes from someone I knew but not that well. I took them to be kind to someone who was grieving, but I don't know what to do with them now. I can keep them for a while, but I don't think I'll keep them forever. Again, any input would be greatly appreciated. By the way, Ana, your voice was fine. I couldn't really notice a difference😊
Agree. Jewelry is hard. I think part of it is that we imbue and culture imbues it with so much meaning and symbolism, too much at times. it's personal, it's sentimental, and it doesn't take up too much space so it's an easy category to gloss over. I have been trying to sell some pieces that have been with me for decades, and since it is only costume jewelry it is really not attracting any buyers so I have decided to donate it. But I also have pieces from childhood, from my husband and pieces made by my son. All are meaningful and yet I wear almost none of it. It doesn't fit my lifestyle and clothing choices now. I have let go of some and it mostly fits into one jewelry box now. Yet, there is still a lot and I am reluctant to let go of pieces that so many people in my life have given me. That's the thing: I did not choose any of these pieces for myself.
I have an attachment to jewellery aswell. If you enjoy crafts have you thought about reworking pieces into something functional? You can use necklaces as curtain tie-backs. I’ve hung some glass beads in my window to catch the light, or you could turn things into Christmas tree ornaments, wind chimes etc. Obviously not everyone likes making things, these are just some ideas I like. X
Thank you Ana. Your videos both resonate and calm me. The hardest things I've decluttered recently were my large A1 potfolio and artwork from college inside it. I'd carried it around for 30 years. I had to acknowledge that I'm more than just my past "art student" self. It was like I was letting go of who I thought I was. I took photos of some paintings. I don't regret it though. My interests have evolved and changed. X
I was moved by the story of the Russian poet, his history, and the book of his poetry you have. This would be a very difficult item to leave behind and I can just imagine how difficult it would be trying to decide what to do with it. I have an item that dates back 50 years, a recording of classical music I made with a close friend when I was just 22. I kind of dismissed the CD because the sound quality is not great and I made a few mistakes in my playing. Lately, however, I've been in contact with the musician I collaborated with and he encouraged me to listen with fresh ears. He told me he has shared the recording with several notable musicians and everyone was amazed by the performances. So, after all this time I have come to embrace and accept it as an important piece of my life. I guess the moral to this story is that pieces of our past that seem to be no longer viable may jump back into our lives at any time with renewed importance. Maybe you could have a relative or a friend keep the book for you until you become more settled?
Hi Ted, thank you for sharing your story, it's indeed meaningful and touching too! I don't have a relative or a friend here unfortunately, so it would be problem. I think I will let it go. Also, the book holds some personal memories I no longer want to have with me.
Dear Anna, thank you for always making me reflect with your videos ❤. I have many of the same thoughts that prevented me from decluttering some of my things. I will try to reframe those thoughts.
Hi Ana. My name is Linnéa. I love your channel. I feel like your true and kind self shows through in the most beautiful way in your videos. You inspire me and many others, I'm sure. Since you asked, The hardest declutter I ever did was getting rid of a collection of pretty, rare dresses and skirts I had been collecting for over 10 years. But my body changed, priorities changed and I never used them anymore. I got so obsessed with keeping them (because I really struggled to get them in the first place) that I kind of lost myself. I was giving myself a hard time for years because I was keeping them. This year, about a month ago I gave thanks, got rid of them and it felt like such a burden has lifted off my shoulders. ❤️ Sending you love from Sweden.
Funny coincidence. I got an exact same water bottle (same brand, shape and size, but a different color) and I'm also thinking of decluttering it. Mainly because it's hard to wash. Also it's too soft to carry around in a bag (even when full). I wonder if you also ever get this feeling that trying to be more eco friendly actually steals away a lot of precious time and energy and sticking to an eco friendliER version of a thing turns out to be less eco friendly towards oneself. I'm gonna dump this bottle right now.
You said it very well, we often create so many realities of who we are and what inspires and in my case, I had to go through such an existential angst in order to conform to what I thought who I was or who I should be and only now coming to terms with actualities and who I realistically am and what I should let go of! It's often mentally trying but liberating when we let go of what we think who we are and realistically analyse who we are is just regular flawed humans which often times the human mind runs away from. Always insightful Ana. I hope you and Brian and doing well over there. 😊🌟
I am in a constant, revolving state of decluttering. Things change, needs change, even moods change. I have a corner spot to pile the things going to the donations shop next time I am going that way.
Dear Ana. Thank you for the lovely video. Could you share your favourite classes from Skillshare other the ones you kindly shared already? I’d love to know and watch them, as I am trying Skillshare with your link. Thank you and a warm hug
Dear Luz, it's hard to pick my favorite as there are so many on Skillshare, but among the best classes that I've done are the following (I'm not putting any links, you can just copypaste them into the search box on the website). Hope this helps! ❤️ Creative Breakthrough: 8 Exercises to Power Your Creativity, Confidence & Career -Mindful Growth: Learn a Transformational Approach to a Fulfilling Creative Life -Creating Your Dream Career: Uncover & Apply Your Creative Strengths -Creative Productivity: Build a Brief to Boost Your Passion Project -Silence & Curiosity: A Guide to Self-Reflection and Self-Discovery -Hand Sewing Basics: Work Wonders with Fabric, Needle & Thread -Home Interior Design for Better Habits: Self-development by Design -Painting with Thread: Modern Embroidery for Beginners -Creative Nonfiction: Write Truth with Style
Thank you so much for showing which long loved items you're decluttering and why, Ana. I related especially to the poem book because I still hold on to a song book from school. You outgrew the book and that is wonderful to hear. What you said is inspiring me a lot for my upcoming decluttering. Btw, your voice was very well understandable to the very end. Sending lots of love to you!
Здравствуйте! С удовольствием смотрю ваши видео, спасибо! Расскажите пожалуйста, как вы планируете «избавиться» от вещей в Белграде? Я сейчас тоже здесь и собираю такую информацию на всякий случай) может быть вы уже нашли какие-то проекты или фонды или может быть ресурсы, где можно продать?) Буду очень признательна за ваш ответ!
Здравствуйте, Екатерина! В Телеграме есть несколько полезных групп, в том числе и "барахолка" для русскоязычных в Сербии, плюс я собираюсь отдать несколько вещей в рукодельной группе (тоже в тг). Фондов с простой коммуникацией и логистикой мы пока не нашли, но часто на базе студий йоги есть что-то подобное, еще предстоит узнать.
Dear Ana, this was a helpful video for me. I realized that your review in using the silicone water bottle has helped me to decide I should let go of my silicone baking loaf pans and muffin "tins". I never did like the texture at the bottom of the baked goods. They always came out like a pudding especially in the muffins, the bread not so bad but the loaf pans are not a good length for the loaves I like to make. Likewise with the linen pants I purchased long ago and never wear. I could alter them but I've already had them sitting in the closet for too long and never did the work. I think it's time to let go. Just last night I read on a blog that one should declutter or go through about 10 items at a time from their closets. This might actually work for me since I've been procrastinating making the 'keep' clothing items due to feeling overwhelmed.As for books, I can still get rid of so many. I'm in awe of how you downsized in order to leave Russia with the bare essentials and few items of comfort. You are inspiring. I hope your voice recovers soonest. 💗💗💗All the best to you and Brian as you go forward in the next leg of your journey.💞
Thank you so much for sharing! When I had silicone moulds for baking back in Russia they gave me the same troubles, ha 😊 Going slowly with decluttering is a great advice, it will keep from making ungrounded decisions for sure! Sending love, my friend ❤️
I'm sorry you had the same issues with the silicone moulds@@anagoldberg. But it gives me comfort to know I wasn't imagining the issues, lol. Slowly but surely goes the decluttering journey here. Much love to you too dear Ana.😘
The fear of making a mistake is definitely one of the things that stop me from making decisions. It's exhausting and creates a lot of problems and suffering. It's always good to see how other people deal with this issue. Thank you, Ana, for your video.
Thank you for watching, Gisela 🌸
It can be hard- if you are like me, and think that there is only one right answer, and you MUST choose that- it can be debilitating!
"The most valuable and precious things we carry with us in our hearts." Thank you, Ana!❤
Once again, Ana, you have presented a wonderful example of the tough decisions we sometimes have to make, either de-cluttering or just making other decisions regarding how we move in life. The growth in awareness and discernment you have made over the past few years really shines through. Thank you.
All the best to you and Brian as you move into the next phase of your life.
Thank you so much for your words of kindness and support, Willowbei 🌿
I love your transparency regarding keeping items based on how you viewed yourself. I have done the same when it came to zero waste, sustainable and ecocentric items. I've learned to let them go if they aren't serving me but initially it was difficult because I felt that I should stay committed to the items because of minimalism and the company's ethics.
Yep, unfortunately there can be a lot of guilt in letting go of certain things, and sometimes this guilt is kind of imposed. I've felt that a lot.
8 years ago, my husband and I had to move into a much smaller house. We had to declutter about 75 % of our belongings. Fortunately at the time, I read Marie Kondo's book. It was amazing to me..
The sheer volume of items we shared and donated. After settling in our little house, and proceeding with life, there were only 2 things that i had to re-acquire. Keeping things de-cluttered has become almost a hobby of mine. It's an ongoing effort. We are in our 70's now, so i am aware that my time on this earth is limited. When I die, I want our children to have an easy time taking care of our belongings. I keep it organized and streamlined. Hopefully I can continue in this way to the end. 😊
Beautiful words! 🙏🏻❤️
I once owned several beautiful, silk wrap-skirts I had acquired over the years from thrift stores. I loved the way they felt and the enjoyment I had wearing them. They were the first clothing items I had ever truly chosen just for my own happiness. Over the past couple of years though they had become a hindrance to me for a variety of reasons, so I gave them away to a friend's drama class. It was very difficult, but I know it was the right decision.
Thank you for sharing your story, Thelma ❤️
Oh gods, I had the same issue with the collapsible silicone water bottle I purchased. Seemed like a genius purchase that turned out to be a complete bust. Beautiful and meaningful video. Hope you feel better soon. Good luck and godspeed on your future journey.
Thanks so much for sharing this, Michaela! Ugh, I felt so gaslighted with the water bottle 🙈
I needed to hear your words on this topic. I beat myself up over items I bring into my home that don't work out. I hold on to things that suit a lifestyle I no longer hold, like my office wardrobe. If I ever end up in an office setting again, the trends will have changed and my style will have changed. Just one example in my home which is becoming cluttered around me. What I've been finding myself struggle with in letting some of these items go though is a lack of time to declutter. My free times are spent living, exploring, experiencing. I just don't prioritize my space right now (I haven't left my home much in many years and have rediscovered the joy in experiences)
But maybe these are excuses I tell myself for fear of acting on my space.
Excellent video, Ana. The hardest decisions always have the most to teach us about ourselves.
Thank you for watching and being here, Rachel ❤️
Wow Ana... Thank you for this idea of asking yourself questions why we still are holding on some things. I will definitely use this tool with tomorrow's decluttering.
I recently made the decision to declutter some dresses that I bought last year. I had this idea that I would wear them but they just aren't my style - a little too long and a little too low. I felt bad about it, like maybe I would turn into a person who would wear them but it's just not my personality and I'm glad to not see them taking up space in my closet anymore.
I Ana, i find it hard to let go of items I have knitted years, ago and no longer wear. Watching your video today has helped me to let go and release them. Thank you Ana. Take care Gale x
I'm so glad the video helped! Thank you, Gale ❤️
Yes, you have to let things go. Things that happened to you, that´s harder for me. Memories that are like ghosts in your mind. Are going to move away or stay, Ana? Thank you for your wise words.
I agree per memories, Marianne... Yes, going to move soon 🌿
You are right. We are in constant change, and no amount of possessions will keep us from moving forward. Sometimes, being tied to material items, ideas, and feelings keeps us stuck in places we don't belong to anymore. Congratulations on all the progress you are making in letting things go that don't serve the YOU of the present. Best wishes.
Thank you ❤️
sell the book, that way it'll go to someone who'll really want it. I agree, emotions most important thing to let go
Thank you for sharing these beautiful stories, Ana. We all experience attachment to the past, and each instance of letting go of something that no longer resonates is so freeing. When someone else really was appreciates it, I feel joy. The biggest "letting go" for me was when I was the only one left, and I sold my family's place. It was time, and it was affecting my health to stay there. Every goodbye opens a new door! ❤🌼🌸
Dear Ana, I hope you are well, despite your vocal problems? Sometimes we fall out of love with things we thought once we can't live without. I think it's a natural process. At least for me. We change and the things we need/want change along the way. Take care 🙏
Thank you for your care, dear Anita 🌷❤️ The voice happily returned to me 😊
@@anagoldberg glad it did 😁
Nice video, thanks so much.
Thank you for watching, Ellen 🌸
Dearest Ana, I like your voice anyway!
And I'm so sorry for your linen pants, even if I understand your reasons and I appreciate so much your analysis of the reasons that made you so difficolt to let these things go. I analyzed the reasons why I am sorry for your pants 😂 and I found some interesting answer about me too.
Thank you so much for everything you do for us!!! ❤❤❤❤
Hi Chiara ❤️ Haha, now I'm intrigued to know the reason you've felt sorry for my pants 😄 Sending love!
@@anagoldberg eheheh 😁, I thought they suite perfectly on your body and style. I love how you put the two colors together, and the pants after your personal touch were simply perfect in length and wideness.
But... about me I learned that I must let other people be who they want to be (I was thinking about my sons too) and to trust you because I respect you so much and your decision is certainly right for you.
I'm so grateful for you to exist and to have you in my life, even if only virtually! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Ah... and I would like to have pants like these too, but unfortunately I'm too big 😅
@@mammaditobia Aww, thank you so much for explaining! And it makes total sense. I've caught myself having similar thoughts and intentions, too. So I understand! 🤗❤ You're the sweetest 🌸
Hi Ana, about 12 years ago, I sold a scrapbook of mine at a flea market. It was a scrapbook of Olivia Newton-John, my favorite singer and a beautiful person I’ve admired since 1974 when I started the scrapbook. I’ve always regretted selling it, and especially when she passed away August 2022. How I would have loved to have that scrapbook, to enjoy it again. But as you said, we carry our memories with us in our hearts and not in our possessions. Thank you, Ana, for reminding me and helping me feel better. By the way, I love the music at the end of your video. It spoke to my heart 🥰
Hi Kathleen, I'm sorry you regret selling the scrapbook. But you're so right to remind yourself that you still have the memories of your love, admiration, and inspiration 🤗
Hello dearest Ana, I think it’s so good we can realize that once something served us doesn’t mean we can’t declutter it as our life changes. You have made wise decisions realizing that your skills are always with you & not in the item. Loved this video as I do all your content. The Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashanah) starts Friday evening & I wish you many blessings & good health & happiness to both you & Brian . Peace, safety & prosperity ❤🙏🇮🇱😘🍏🍯🍎
Dear Sharon, thank you for reminding me of Rosh Hashanah! Sending best wishes to you too, my friend ❤️
@@anagoldberg thanks so much 😘🙏🌺
I’m struggling with this right now. Working on decluttering again, as I still have things stored on my carport and my park managers object. So once again I’m going through boxes. It’s hard, but your videos help. I’m going to think about what you said about letting go of the image you had if yourself. Am I still that person? Good questions to ask. Thanks. All the best to you and Brian.
So happy that you've landed in a good place. You've been such an inspiration to me in my own journey to minimalism and to seek a new life in another country. Much love to you both xx
Letting it soak overnight with a 50/50 white vinegar and water takes care of the smell 😷
Done that! And soda bicarbonate soaking, and boiling it - everything. But the smell persists.
@@anagoldberg oh well 🤷🏻♀️
Thank you Ana, for putting out there, those difficult truths that we feel but dare not even express or put into words
Ugh I can just imagine the smell and taste of that water bottle! I’ve had similar experience with one (not that brand) and it seems that they are not good for the purpose of drinking from. I also had a silicon ice cube tray, which seemed ideal as the ice cubes could be so easily removed. But the ice tasted nasty.
in the old days, these images of ourself were called 'vanity'. It's not a big crime, in fact it's very human. I like to htink i'm this, i'm that, but it's what causes all my mistakes
Great perspective, Ana :) Thank you.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Love 💗only 💗
only Mandelstam is forever, everything else stales
Beautiful reminder, thank you Ana
Another great video ana have a great day
Thanks Liam, you too!
Ana, giving these items the respect and consideration that you did before deciding their fate was the most you could do. I hope you felt lightness afterwards. While I was watching your video I was preparing a box of things that no longer serve me to take to some friends with whom I'm having coffee today, in the hope that they will have another life of appreciation, but we can't always do that. I hope your voice is better. Was it the emotion? Xx
Thank you for sharing, Judith! The voice is back thankfully 😊
no.2 'sunk cost fallacy'
Great video dear Ana.❤❤❤❤
Thank you for sharing
I'm really struggling with the decluttering of two things. First, I have a fair amount of jewelry that was given to me that I never wear and probably won't wear. They are items given to me by people who meant well and thought I would really like them, and they're nice items, but I've always been honest with everyone that I don't really wear jewelry (and yet I keep getting if gifted to me). If anyone has feedback on how to let it go mentally, that would be very much appreciated.
The second things is ashes from someone I knew but not that well. I took them to be kind to someone who was grieving, but I don't know what to do with them now. I can keep them for a while, but I don't think I'll keep them forever. Again, any input would be greatly appreciated.
By the way, Ana, your voice was fine. I couldn't really notice a difference😊
Agree. Jewelry is hard. I think part of it is that we imbue and culture imbues it with so much meaning and symbolism, too much at times. it's personal, it's sentimental, and it doesn't take up too much space so it's an easy category to gloss over. I have been trying to sell some pieces that have been with me for decades, and since it is only costume jewelry it is really not attracting any buyers so I have decided to donate it. But I also have pieces from childhood, from my husband and pieces made by my son. All are meaningful and yet I wear almost none of it. It doesn't fit my lifestyle and clothing choices now. I have let go of some and it mostly fits into one jewelry box now. Yet, there is still a lot and I am reluctant to let go of pieces that so many people in my life have given me. That's the thing: I did not choose any of these pieces for myself.
My position is that you live your own life and you decide what to keep in it. I hope this helps a bit ❤️😊
I have an attachment to jewellery aswell. If you enjoy crafts have you thought about reworking pieces into something functional? You can use necklaces as curtain tie-backs. I’ve hung some glass beads in my window to catch the light, or you could turn things into Christmas tree ornaments, wind chimes etc. Obviously not everyone likes making things, these are just some ideas I like. X
Thank you Ana. Your videos both resonate and calm me. The hardest things I've decluttered recently were my large A1 potfolio and artwork from college inside it. I'd carried it around for 30 years. I had to acknowledge that I'm more than just my past "art student" self. It was like I was letting go of who I thought I was. I took photos of some paintings. I don't regret it though. My interests have evolved and changed. X
Thank you so much for sharing your story, Kate ❤️
I was moved by the story of the Russian poet, his history, and the book of his poetry you have. This would be a very difficult item to leave behind and I can just imagine how difficult it would be trying to decide what to do with it. I have an item that dates back 50 years, a recording of classical music I made with a close friend when I was just 22. I kind of dismissed the CD because the sound quality is not great and I made a few mistakes in my playing. Lately, however, I've been in contact with the musician I collaborated with and he encouraged me to listen with fresh ears. He told me he has shared the recording with several notable musicians and everyone was amazed by the performances. So, after all this time I have come to embrace and accept it as an important piece of my life. I guess the moral to this story is that pieces of our past that seem to be no longer viable may jump back into our lives at any time with renewed importance. Maybe you could have a relative or a friend keep the book for you until you become more settled?
Hi Ted, thank you for sharing your story, it's indeed meaningful and touching too! I don't have a relative or a friend here unfortunately, so it would be problem. I think I will let it go. Also, the book holds some personal memories I no longer want to have with me.
Dear Anna, thank you for always making me reflect with your videos ❤. I have many of the same thoughts that prevented me from decluttering some of my things. I will try to reframe those thoughts.
Thank you! I'm so glad the video resonated with you ❤️
Thank you, Ana.
Hi Ana. My name is Linnéa.
I love your channel. I feel like your true and kind self shows through in the most beautiful way in your videos. You inspire me and many others, I'm sure.
Since you asked, The hardest declutter I ever did was getting rid of a collection of pretty, rare dresses and skirts I had been collecting for over 10 years. But my body changed, priorities changed and I never used them anymore. I got so obsessed with keeping them (because I really struggled to get them in the first place) that I kind of lost myself. I was giving myself a hard time for years because I was keeping them. This year, about a month ago I gave thanks, got rid of them and it felt like such a burden has lifted off my shoulders. ❤️
Sending you love from Sweden.
Hello Linnéa! Thank you so much for your kind words and for sharing your story, it's very inspiring and deep ❤️ Sending lots of love to Sweden 🌷
🌺🙏🏽
Your voice is powerful despite the texture 😊
Aww, thank you ❤️😊
Funny coincidence. I got an exact same water bottle (same brand, shape and size, but a different color) and I'm also thinking of decluttering it. Mainly because it's hard to wash. Also it's too soft to carry around in a bag (even when full). I wonder if you also ever get this feeling that trying to be more eco friendly actually steals away a lot of precious time and energy and sticking to an eco friendliER version of a thing turns out to be less eco friendly towards oneself. I'm gonna dump this bottle right now.
I absolutely get this feeling! 😊 Self-friendliness deserves more attention for sure.
You said it very well, we often create so many realities of who we are and what inspires and in my case, I had to go through such an existential angst in order to conform to what I thought who I was or who I should be and only now coming to terms with actualities and who I realistically am and what I should let go of! It's often mentally trying but liberating when we let go of what we think who we are and realistically analyse who we are is just regular flawed humans which often times the human mind runs away from. Always insightful Ana. I hope you and Brian and doing well over there. 😊🌟
I can so relate to what you say, Ash. Indeed, we are humans after all, flawed yet still aspiring 😊
💓
❤
I am in a constant, revolving state of decluttering. Things change, needs change, even moods change. I have a corner spot to pile the things going to the donations shop next time I am going that way.
❤❤❤
Dear Ana. Thank you for the lovely video. Could you share your favourite classes from Skillshare other the ones you kindly shared already? I’d love to know and watch them, as I am trying Skillshare with your link. Thank you and a warm hug
Dear Luz, it's hard to pick my favorite as there are so many on Skillshare, but among the best classes that I've done are the following (I'm not putting any links, you can just copypaste them into the search box on the website). Hope this helps! ❤️
Creative Breakthrough: 8 Exercises to Power Your Creativity, Confidence & Career
-Mindful Growth: Learn a Transformational Approach to a Fulfilling Creative Life
-Creating Your Dream Career: Uncover & Apply Your Creative Strengths
-Creative Productivity: Build a Brief to Boost Your Passion Project
-Silence & Curiosity: A Guide to Self-Reflection and Self-Discovery
-Hand Sewing Basics: Work Wonders with Fabric, Needle & Thread
-Home Interior Design for Better Habits: Self-development by Design
-Painting with Thread: Modern Embroidery for Beginners
-Creative Nonfiction: Write Truth with Style
Here's to new beginnings! May you continue to share your special kind of courage.
Thank you, Catherine!
Thank you for finishing the video! I love following your journey. ❤
Thank you for being here ❤️
Thank you so much for showing which long loved items you're decluttering and why, Ana. I related especially to the poem book because I still hold on to a song book from school. You outgrew the book and that is wonderful to hear. What you said is inspiring me a lot for my upcoming decluttering. Btw, your voice was very well understandable to the very end. Sending lots of love to you!
Thank you for sharing your story, Christiane ❤️ Much love!
Thank you Ana, best wishes to both of you....
Thank you 🌿
❤❤❤
Hi
Здравствуйте!
С удовольствием смотрю ваши видео, спасибо!
Расскажите пожалуйста, как вы планируете «избавиться» от вещей в Белграде?
Я сейчас тоже здесь и собираю такую информацию на всякий случай) может быть вы уже нашли какие-то проекты или фонды или может быть ресурсы, где можно продать?)
Буду очень признательна за ваш ответ!
Здравствуйте, Екатерина! В Телеграме есть несколько полезных групп, в том числе и "барахолка" для русскоязычных в Сербии, плюс я собираюсь отдать несколько вещей в рукодельной группе (тоже в тг). Фондов с простой коммуникацией и логистикой мы пока не нашли, но часто на базе студий йоги есть что-то подобное, еще предстоит узнать.
Dear Ana, this was a helpful video for me. I realized that your review in using the silicone water bottle has helped me to decide I should let go of my silicone baking loaf pans and muffin "tins". I never did like the texture at the bottom of the baked goods. They always came out like a pudding especially in the muffins, the bread not so bad but the loaf pans are not a good length for the loaves I like to make. Likewise with the linen pants I purchased long ago and never wear. I could alter them but I've already had them sitting in the closet for too long and never did the work. I think it's time to let go. Just last night I read on a blog that one should declutter or go through about 10 items at a time from their closets. This might actually work for me since I've been procrastinating making the 'keep' clothing items due to feeling overwhelmed.As for books, I can still get rid of so many. I'm in awe of how you downsized in order to leave Russia with the bare essentials and few items of comfort. You are inspiring. I hope your voice recovers soonest. 💗💗💗All the best to you and Brian as you go forward in the next leg of your journey.💞
Thank you so much for sharing! When I had silicone moulds for baking back in Russia they gave me the same troubles, ha 😊 Going slowly with decluttering is a great advice, it will keep from making ungrounded decisions for sure! Sending love, my friend ❤️
I'm sorry you had the same issues with the silicone moulds@@anagoldberg. But it gives me comfort to know I wasn't imagining the issues, lol. Slowly but surely goes the decluttering journey here. Much love to you too dear Ana.😘