🍀 I am a child of the 1950’s. I love all the decluttering videos. But, one thing that keeps surprising me is ALL THE STUFF people have now that we did not have then. Most people lived in smaller houses, did not live in debt with credit cards, and didn’t sit around watching TV and the many ads. We didn’t have to constantly declutter because we couldn’t afford that many things. Keeping your house clean was easier because it wasn’t crammed with STUFF!!! Our food was simpler, we had variations of the same things. The kitchen cupboards were not crammed because there wasn’t the variety of meals and snacks. My Mother was brought up, and brought me up on simple foods like cornbread, beans potatoes, greens. My Grandma lived to be 94, my Mother just died this year 19 days short of 97 years old. I live the simple life myself, but I wish more younger people were aware how to really live simply!!! 😊💐👍
I love your comment! I am in my early thirties and I live very simply myself, probably because I don't live in my home country and don't own my accommodation so I know how much work it is when you move from one place to the next (3 countries, 7 flats so far). You definitely don't keep much when you know you may move again in the next few years and will have to carry it or pay for it to be moved. But also, as you mention, there is so much consumption these days: buying WAY too much stuff we don't need! So between the thing itself, its packaging and whatnot, it creates so much clutter and waste. Not good for your home, not good for the environment either!
Hi Rosa, Thank you for your comment. If you want any moral support in your decluttering, I would be glad to encourage! I love decluttering. It makes me feel happy and free 😊
My parents were super poor. They both went through the Great Depression. They never threw anything away. Essentially, they became hoarders. I had a tough time embracing minimalism as a result. When I got married, I had clothes from high school that fit fine. Fashion has never been a big deal to me. They lived simply, but not frugally. My dad never had a credit card. He hated them. My mom darned socks rather than tossing them. Turns out, that is terrible for the feet. I could go on, but I appreciate frugal minimalism over that.
I am a serious procrastinator when it comes to sewing on a button or mending. I don't know why. I can sew and I know it doesn't take long to do. Plus, I actually enjoy it once I'm doing it. But for some reason, I will literally put it off for years. Now I've learned to either schedule a time to do it or to set aside a day to follow up on those things I tend to procrastinate on. Several years ago, a button fell off of my coat. I carried it in the pocket so I would remember to sew it back on, but the only time I ever thought about the missing button was when I was putting on my coat to go somewhere. I would feel guilty, once again, for not having sewn the button back on. I wore my coat anyway, without the button, I don't even know for how many years. I finally sewed the button back on when we had a particularly bad winter and I really needed to be able to button my coat against the wind. Obviously, scheduling an appointment or having a set time or day to take care of such tasks would have worked so much better than depending on myself to remember simply because it needed to be done. Yes, I liked my coat. I actually still wear it. I just procrastinate about sewing buttons back on. 😏
I have a skirt that I need to find a way to mend because the elastic is gone in it but haven't done so yet. I hope to do so soon, and some curtains to adjust.
Hi, I'm Kelly and I'm a box hoarder. It's so hard for me to throw away boxes, but I'm getting better. Even though I now live by the recycling bin and see all the beautiful boxes every day and think, "What a great box! I should save that box." I don't. Also, I feel you about your dog. I filmed a decluttering video and afterward saw my cat chose to lick his butt not once but three separate times during the filming. Great vid!
Hello Kelly, welcome to box hoarders united. :) Each day is progress. I like to pick out my most beautiful boxes and if they are worthy for display, they are worthy to keep. They MUST have something 'important' inside otherwise it's just another box out causing visual clutter. When I did my deep purge, I traded good plain boxes for those that had pictures and designs. Everytime I look at them they are pleasing to my eyes and give me a bit of joy. We try to use the good plain boxes for the giveaway items, then they have served a purpose. :)
OMG Laura you really hit the nail on the head with this video! So true on everything you said. For example, I had magazines from my deceased mother for years that I kept wanting to read, but I felt so bad that I hadn't read them yet! I made the hard decision to recycle them and practically had a panic attack when I threw them in the recycling bin and almost pulled them back out. But the next day I felt like a huge burden had been lifted from my spirit. Thanks for all of your great life changing tips!
The magazine one is a tough one for me. I've worked in magazine publishing for about 35 years, and I've kept a copy of every publication I've worked on. They now fill the equivalent of an entire bookcase. I don't ever refer to them, but I haven't been able to part with them, since they represent such a big part of my life. However, I'm now ready to let most of them go. I'll scan the front cover and masthead of each one and then find homes for the whole magazines.
I remember having three plus boxes of videos. I had carted them with me to two student houses and then to my present home. The last video machine had broken beyond repairing and the ruddy videos were collecting dust under the stairs. I had a mad moment one day and dumped the lot. The sense of relief was enormous. 👍😃 Very helpful video and....your fur baby is gorgeous.
I decluttered all my China dishes that I had from my first marriage and have never not for one second, regretted it. One of the best things I have ever done, no exaggeration.
I was grateful for the stash of boxes my mom had in her storage cube when she passed earlier this year so I could pack up her stuff easier. She was pretty minimal in belongings on the surface but all the drawers and closets were full. I learned from that situation to whittle down my situation much more than I have. It's a journey.
It’s actually shockingly common. Elders will look like they have a spotless home when really it’s hidden. My grandmother did things like hide broken plates in drawers. They do this stuff cause they’re afraid someone will see it and automatically assume dropping a plate means they can’t take care of themselves so they “hide the evidence”. My Mum works with elders and you’d be surprised at all the little things they do out of fear. It’s honestly so sad and it’s avoidable. So if you really don’t want to end up in a similar situation ask for help as soon as you think you might need it. The more you’re willing to accept help, the less you need to fear, the less your family will overreact, and the less likely you’ll hide things and hoard supplies.
I subscribed to digital magazines on kindle to eliminate paper and still didn’t read them! 😩 Lol! But I usually will take a photo of what I really wanted to read from the paper magazine and then throw it out so I can read it later and “keep it”.
I got rid of a toy from when I was 5 or 6 because every time I saw it, it reminded me of the relationship my sister and I had as kids. We were made to compete for everything, and she won the huge version of the toy in the contest (she didn't even want to enter the contest, she only entered because I did). I could never enjoy it because it was always tinged with bad memories and stuck in a box in a closet. No point having something sentimental that you can't enjoy. No regrets!!
Laura, thank you for being so honest and genuine. I'm on my delcuttering journey. Oh! one of the best pieces of advice you gave was "each item we buy will end up in landfill" think it was a book review, I may not have the quote exactly correct but it did stop me buying a couch and started me decluttering. I want to feel at peace with myself and where I live. Best wishes from Ireland.
I went through my cables and got rid of all those from before we were married-scary old. Just recently I almost freaked out thinking I got rid of an ethernet cable, but I guess I saved one as a backup and I am very thankful. So, for those who don't want to get rid of every single cable, keep a backup, make sure it's still good, and not more than one of each: ethernet, hdmi, phone charger...though the phone chargers you can buy for $1 at the Dollar Tree in the U.S. Thank you again and again for your videos, they are gems and always help me see the clutter and deal with it!
I declutter all my wooden pencils because I always lost my sharpener and could not use them when I needed to. Switched to mechanical pencils and it is so much better for me.
Argh! The “really good box” thing. So tough for me. I set 3 aside yesterday. I bought new bed linens and they not only came in nice sturdy individual boxes with nice clean closures…. They came in those zippered plastic bags. I’m running out of uses for these things. And, the cardboard inserts inside the sheets - they are pristine and would be so useful in craft projects… if I could GET to my craft supplies in the storage closet stuffed with other junk. 😩 Sigh…
Maybe you could adopt the one in one out rule to your boxes. Limit yourself to a reasonable number, and when you come into possession of a "really good box" that you want to keep, get rid of a box you already have (perhaps as a donateable donate box). My problem is I tend to keep that sort of "really good box" and never end up actually using it because I'm saving it for the perfect purpose. 😂
Why have I never associated my anxiety with my stuff in this way?? I thought the stuff just bothered me because I had to find somewhere to store it and therefore things are cluttered or jammed into various closets. Ive never thought of the stuff as like an emotional to do list that subconscious or consciously making me anxious or guilt about not using it etc...what a revelation that is. Thank you
I kept excess pans in my second oven and it caught fire. Now, the 10.00 worth of extra pans will cost me 12,000.00 to replace it. It's a huge stove/ oven!
Actually I was raised keeping boxes by my dad. I have no idea why he does that but I sell things quite often and use them to ship stuff. A lot of things sell for more if you resell them in their original box too.
So true about the damaged items point. My husband and I are on the tail end of moving and we found the 1/4 of our stuff got mouldy while we were storing it. I’m planning on trying to fix 1 thing- my boots that I wear 250 times a year... but everything else is no great loss
I have started this journey and I can't believe how emotional it is but once I started I realised the healing power, and the charity shop were well happy - I have done under the stairs , the shed and the wardrobes x2. Bring it to the shop and then you cannot remember what is in the bag!
Moving companies like U-Haul sell different sizes of boxes including flatscreen TV boxes, mirrors, glassware, etc., in addition to regular packing boxes and they will buy back your unused boxes if you buy them in bundles. So, there's no need to hold onto the original packaging because most of the time if you have to ship it back for repair, the original packaging isn't good enough and your item will probably get more damaged in the process especially if you use the Post Office to ship your items because besides losing or misrouting it they will not take tender loving care to your package.
Cables! I currently have two shallow boxes of cables at the top of our hall stairs. None of them mine and the two people who need to tell whether they're going out (to be recycled at our Tip) are both too busy to go through it! I know the majority are going out but... 🤷🏻♀️ On the upside, I went through cookbooks I've had for a long time. Went through them and handed 15-20 (small and large) in to the charity shop on Saturday! If we're honest we probably use a handful or a dozen at most that we always return to. I'm sure a few more are going out too. 😊
I had the book, "Atomic Habits," because everyone was raving about it. I couldn't get through a few chapters but I kept the book. I moved it from California to Oregon. I still didnt read it. I finally gave it to Goodwill. No more guilt.
I found that I was keeping an Erno laszlo shake it box! I was keeping in my closet because I like the red imitation seal! I definitely put out in recycling. I am totally periodical free, though! We have a good recycling resource for electronics and cords, only have a phone and iPad. I do use the front right burner on my cooktop. I have ocular and skin rosacea so make up is out ; I can only use the shake-it cover up. My minimal very functional Montana wardrobe is for hard often cold work outside, or the gym. As a senior senior, I do not need much. All bets are off when I see a new rose, though!
Heading to Google returning faulty goods without packaging! Thank you for this information. Last year I decluttered a small room that was full of boxes and it is now a playroom for my daughter's toys and books.
Love you videos, I’ve been decluttering for a year now. It’s endless. Of all the items I’ve decluttered, I have missed absolutely nothing.I literally mean nothing. At the time, I thought I might need it, but nope, it’s so freeing. Hugs from Wales uk x
I'm not sure if I agree about all boxes! I can't tell you the relief of moving and having the original box and packaging for my TV and dishes to safely pack up with no additional thought. If you move apartments regularly those are keepers for sure.
I can't say I agree with everything: Random boxes in general, yes. But if there is a concrete, inevitable purpose in mind for that box, or it's a size that would be hard to replace, putting it away is probably for the best. For example, I have 2 monitors that belong to my workplace. Have had them for about 3 years now, and I still have the boxes they were sent in, because I will eventually have to send them back. I don't want to have to worry about finding a big enough box in the middle of a big life change like moving or switching jobs, so I've folded them up and put them away for when I will inevitably need them. I also have to disagree about the cables. Especially if the cables are shared, old or mystery cables with weird connectors need to be demystified, because you don't want to accidentally throw away the only charger to your deceased grandpa's ancient voice recorder and only record of his voice by accident. Chances are no one will remember what that cable is for at first glance, so figuring it out before deciding is important. Now, that was an exaggerated example, but my whole family has hoarding tendencies and tantrums over misplaced cables are a thing. People get attached to the oddest things, so one extra cable's worth of space is negligible if it spares you the argument. Also, they can be pretty expensive and a pain to replace, worse if they are old or rare. One HDMI cable might not be a big deal for you, but finding the same length at a reasonable price is time and effort wasted in exchange for a few squared centimeters. My solution is to wind them all up neatly (though, be gentle, if you hear a crack from your ethernet cable you've just killed it), use a simple label keychain to know at a glance what each of them is for and then store them. The ones for daily use have a compartment in my desk drawer and the rest are stored in a cupboard, in a box, out of sight. I live alone, so I can pair down the same type of cable at will, but it should be a shared decision if the cables are shared. Yeah, most households probably don't need 6 loose USB A to C cables, but some do, and not having that conversation first is just bound to end unpleasantly.
Hi Laura, You and your dog look very cute in your thumbnail picture today. I have a thing for jars. I begun to be more ruthless about recycling them lately. Oh yes, the box of cables. I need help with sorting through them. Cheers
I organized my jewelry and found a random plastic bag and threw it away. Later realized it had a diamond in it. So sad!! Double check everything before you toss it.
Definitely a tough realisation. And a good reminder to us all of why it's so important to declutter in the first place, so important and valuable items don't get lost.
I absolutely agree with magazines. Back 15-20 years ago I LOVED magazines, and I spent lots of money and time every month...but I read every single one of them. Nowadays magazines are nothing but glorified, glossy advertisements. There is one exception to that rule for me. I have a subscription to Bella Grace which is more like a coffee table book. I hate clutter, but I display these magazines as if they were precious jewels! I have loved your videos for what seems likes forever; I always learn something valuable.
I love my magazines. They're fun and light. Now when i get one I peruse it for anything I might want to keep and clip it right away (and file it right away). When I get a new one I toss the old one (this is a huge accomplishment). I'm taking my donations out when this video ends. Thanks for the motivation. ☘️
Believe me, as someone who has suffered global amnesia, a box of stuff does nothing whatsoever to help. Trying to remember why each item was kept is more stress than living without the memory. I went through everything I own and if it didn't suit my 'new' life, it was decluttered regardless of whether or not the item was supposed to trigger a memory. This is a symptom of living in the past. Live now. The past is gone and cannot be lived again. No one is guaranteed a future. So dump the memory box.
I write the magazine article name or keyword and bring to the library for others to enjoy. So many magazines now online. We keep laptop boxes--many come with the form that ensures it is secure in the box if shipping. I have kept boxes and old plastic bins for donating and bring all to donate. Yesterday we did kitchen downsizing - started with the microwave dying and two hours later, a huge garbage and recycling bags, items to ask if anyone would like, if not, donating. Spur of the moment downsizing is my favorite.
I am obsessed with notebooks and journals. But I recently decluttered most of them and do not miss them at all. I also have vowed not to buy any new ones.
We use the front left burner most! And in regards to cords, I got rid of an old cell phone charger (before smart phones were a thing) and wanted old info from it … and now cannot even purchase a new cord because they’re not sold anymore! (I’ve even checked Amazon)
Just love all your declutter reminds especially when it's about items or habits we probably don't think about too often, or should I say, we don't think bof them often enough... Or maybe we wouldn't have so much clutter. Lok
Keeping boxes - this is common for Lego fans and other toy collectors because they think that it's worth some thing. It may be the case, but it just becomes clutter if you get too many and it's hoarder behaviour since all it is is rubbish at the end of the day. I'd rather have my space taken up by other items.
@@g.m.3054 most of my basic cardboard boxes get broken down ASAP, but I’m a sucker for those nice little boxes that some products come in. I use them for enough random things that I don’t feel too bad hanging into them. I’ve used them for gifting a few times, as well as organizing different art supplies
I'm still working my way through my carrier bag hoard from before they started costing 5-10p each 😂🤣 Nearly gone now - the amount of things to take into school/charity shops - and I've had heavy-duty jute ones for my regular shopping for the past 5-10years?!😂 Love Jovi's "Hey good looking!" (Yes I rewound it to see what it said 😎)... I digress; lots of food for thought there, thank you! 💗
I think there’s something to be said for keeping a thing or two cause you might need it. But you really need to be good at identifying what those things are. Like, I actually needed an HDMI cable in the middle of the night and I was lucky that my husband hadn’t tossed the extra. But things like micro usb plugs? Everything comes with those. Keep a spare if you must but I promise if you asked any neighbor if they had one they’d beg you to take a handful they have sitting around. Sometimes things are too expensive for a person to replace on short notice, or are hard to come by. But common items can go for sure! Setting time aside for things is good too. I have a TON of furniture and baby stuff that needs to be out of here. Normally I’d schedule the earliest possible pickup- but I dislocated my thumb and it keeps popping out so I’m in a brace and need help. Instead of putting it off till some undetermined date when I’m healed enough I’ve enlisted help, set a date a week from now for the pickup, and I’m keeping a list cause I know what needs to go but others don’t. This ensures things will get done on time AND nothing is missed! Cause let’s be honest, if it’s missed it’s likely to stay.
I've never regretted getting rid of all these photographs that I never looked at. I didn't enjoy looking through them (to save a handful) and I'm glad I've downsized to a very few albums that are actually easily accessible for me now. I've never regretted getting rid of most of my stuffed animals, either, as soon as I knew they were getting to a good home. (Could not have donated them completely anonymously and fearing what might happen to them.) There are generally very few declutterings that I do regret, and those are the ones I don't really remember having decided on, so I thought I still had them and it turned out I didn't ...?
What about tons of Journals that I've written in? I don't want the clutter but what about the events that were going on at the time? Also sentimental greeting cards especially from lived ones I've lost. Someone help! Thanks.
When you started taking about negative emotions associated with an item, I immediately thought of the divorce paperwork I've been holding onto for almost a decade. I don't just mean the final divorce decree which is important to keep a copy of but like bank statements and other proof of how the other person winged me and mine. I realize that I really need to let this go. But how do I know what to keep and what I need to hold onto?
I have two black English Goldendoodles. They behave very much like yours. They are 4 years old and now I only need to walk them three miles a day, instead of 4-5. Way calmer than when they were pups.🤣🤣🤣
Regarding the boxes thing though, I will say that with Apple products, having the box means that if you want to resell it later, you will get more money for it just because it has the box. I personally throw mine out, but my friend upgraded his iPad to a bigger one that he could use with a keyboard when his laptop broke, and he got £30 extra for still having it in a good quality box!
If you're not using them, donate them. If they're in good condition, a regular thrift store will take them, or a shelter. If not, an animal rescue may take them. 🙂
I would do that with my cords or the cords of the house, but I normally wouldn't even know what cord is what with the ones I do use lol SO I can't lol I did though recently have my hubby sit down with me and go thru my mini box and let go at least half from old things I don't have anymore. Ps if old phones or things don't work, I give them to my kids to pretend play, they love it! And I have let go a few things on your list. Like magazines, which I don't really miss and they took up so much room. The only one that pings sometimes is one I use to collect since I was a teen, but I stop even looking at them, more of a collection thing which I tend to have a problem with lol. I stopped all magazine subscriptions, and now Meme(hubby mom) Gives me hers that her friends gives her after done reading them. lol I haven't read much from them but I craft with kids using them sometimes.
Just declutter 5 dog toys, that needed repair. Haven't fixed them yet, but kept them. Cords.... I have 2 extra phone cords, for my husband and my phones. Those are in the travel bag, so we don't take ours from home. We have 1 extra HDMI cord, and that's it. Woo hoo. Ahead of that curve.
Is there a place you would recommend donating old magazines to? I have a block in getting rid of them thinking a school or library would want/use them??
I put mine in a local Little Free Library. They were snapped up. But something like a doctor's office, dentist's office, or nursing home might love them.
Not helpful regarding prepping as the rule is" if you have 1 you have none, if you have 2 you have none". And privileged assumption that people will always be able to afford or be able to replace something in the future. Some of the other points are good.
🍀 I am a child of the 1950’s. I love all the decluttering videos. But, one thing that keeps surprising me is ALL THE STUFF people have now that we did not have then. Most people lived in smaller houses, did not live in debt with credit cards, and didn’t sit around watching TV and the many ads. We didn’t have to constantly declutter because we couldn’t afford that many things. Keeping your house clean was easier because it wasn’t crammed with STUFF!!! Our food was simpler, we had variations of the same things. The kitchen cupboards were not crammed because there wasn’t the variety of meals and snacks. My Mother was brought up, and brought me up on simple foods like cornbread, beans potatoes, greens. My Grandma lived to be 94, my Mother just died this year 19 days short of 97 years old. I live the simple life myself, but I wish more younger people were aware how to really live simply!!! 😊💐👍
I love your comment! I am in my early thirties and I live very simply myself, probably because I don't live in my home country and don't own my accommodation so I know how much work it is when you move from one place to the next (3 countries, 7 flats so far). You definitely don't keep much when you know you may move again in the next few years and will have to carry it or pay for it to be moved. But also, as you mention, there is so much consumption these days: buying WAY too much stuff we don't need! So between the thing itself, its packaging and whatnot, it creates so much clutter and waste. Not good for your home, not good for the environment either!
Yes, I was brought up simply too. And am trying to get back to that. It's a work in progress but I get closer all the time. 🙂
Hi Rosa, Thank you for your comment. If you want any moral support in your decluttering, I would be glad to encourage! I love decluttering. It makes me feel happy and free 😊
My parents were super poor. They both went through the Great Depression. They never threw anything away. Essentially, they became hoarders. I had a tough time embracing minimalism as a result. When I got married, I had clothes from high school that fit fine. Fashion has never been a big deal to me. They lived simply, but not frugally. My dad never had a credit card. He hated them. My mom darned socks rather than tossing them. Turns out, that is terrible for the feet. I could go on, but I appreciate frugal minimalism over that.
My favorite meal is three bean chili (no meat) with cornbread and greens. So cheap, so simple, so satisfying, and also nutritious.
Yep, the giant bag of mystery cables going all the way back to 1977.
Probably for electronics that go all the way back to the 70s too. 🙂
@@HowToGYST hahaha !!! So true
Decluttering has only made my life and home easier and easier. No looking back, only forward.
I love seeing your pup relaxing behind you.
Oh believe me, that doesn't often happen. She's usually full of energy. 😂
Just wanted to drop a compliment! Your short hair looks amazing on you 😍
Thanks so much. 🥰 I really love it. So much easier to manage.
I am a serious procrastinator when it comes to sewing on a button or mending. I don't know why. I can sew and I know it doesn't take long to do. Plus, I actually enjoy it once I'm doing it. But for some reason, I will literally put it off for years. Now I've learned to either schedule a time to do it or to set aside a day to follow up on those things I tend to procrastinate on.
Several years ago, a button fell off of my coat. I carried it in the pocket so I would remember to sew it back on, but the only time I ever thought about the missing button was when I was putting on my coat to go somewhere. I would feel guilty, once again, for not having sewn the button back on. I wore my coat anyway, without the button, I don't even know for how many years. I finally sewed the button back on when we had a particularly bad winter and I really needed to be able to button my coat against the wind. Obviously, scheduling an appointment or having a set time or day to take care of such tasks would have worked so much better than depending on myself to remember simply because it needed to be done.
Yes, I liked my coat. I actually still wear it. I just procrastinate about sewing buttons back on. 😏
You are not alone! :)
I have a skirt that I need to find a way to mend because the elastic is gone in it but haven't done so yet. I hope to do so soon, and some curtains to adjust.
@@craftyhobbit7623 Sending you good vibes so you can either get it done or let it go and move on soon. 💞
Hi, I'm Kelly and I'm a box hoarder. It's so hard for me to throw away boxes, but I'm getting better. Even though I now live by the recycling bin and see all the beautiful boxes every day and think, "What a great box! I should save that box." I don't.
Also, I feel you about your dog. I filmed a decluttering video and afterward saw my cat chose to lick his butt not once but three separate times during the filming.
Great vid!
Lol about your cat!!!
I agree about the boxes
Hello Kelly, welcome to box hoarders united. :) Each day is progress. I like to pick out my most beautiful boxes and if they are worthy for display, they are worthy to keep. They MUST have something 'important' inside otherwise it's just another box out causing visual clutter. When I did my deep purge, I traded good plain boxes for those that had pictures and designs. Everytime I look at them they are pleasing to my eyes and give me a bit of joy. We try to use the good plain boxes for the giveaway items, then they have served a purpose. :)
OMG Laura you really hit the nail on the head with this video! So true on everything you said. For example, I had magazines from my deceased mother for years that I kept wanting to read, but I felt so bad that I hadn't read them yet! I made the hard decision to recycle them and practically had a panic attack when I threw them in the recycling bin and almost pulled them back out. But the next day I felt like a huge burden had been lifted from my spirit. Thanks for all of your great life changing tips!
That's so wonderful! Well done! I felt the same sense of relief when mine were gone. It's very freeing.
The magazine one is a tough one for me. I've worked in magazine publishing for about 35 years, and I've kept a copy of every publication I've worked on. They now fill the equivalent of an entire bookcase. I don't ever refer to them, but I haven't been able to part with them, since they represent such a big part of my life. However, I'm now ready to let most of them go. I'll scan the front cover and masthead of each one and then find homes for the whole magazines.
I remember having three plus boxes of videos. I had carted them with me to two student houses and then to my present home. The last video machine had broken beyond repairing and the ruddy videos were collecting dust under the stairs.
I had a mad moment one day and dumped the lot. The sense of relief was enormous. 👍😃
Very helpful video and....your fur baby is gorgeous.
I decluttered all my China dishes that I had from my first marriage and have never not for one second, regretted it. One of the best things I have ever done, no exaggeration.
Good for you! Those things can be BULKY and take up a huge amount of space.
I was grateful for the stash of boxes my mom had in her storage cube when she passed earlier this year so I could pack up her stuff easier. She was pretty minimal in belongings on the surface but all the drawers and closets were full. I learned from that situation to whittle down my situation much more than I have. It's a journey.
I'm so sorry for your loss. Decluttering is definitely a process. And the less stuff you have, the fewer boxes and storage containers you need.
It’s actually shockingly common. Elders will look like they have a spotless home when really it’s hidden. My grandmother did things like hide broken plates in drawers. They do this stuff cause they’re afraid someone will see it and automatically assume dropping a plate means they can’t take care of themselves so they “hide the evidence”. My Mum works with elders and you’d be surprised at all the little things they do out of fear. It’s honestly so sad and it’s avoidable. So if you really don’t want to end up in a similar situation ask for help as soon as you think you might need it. The more you’re willing to accept help, the less you need to fear, the less your family will overreact, and the less likely you’ll hide things and hoard supplies.
I subscribed to digital magazines on kindle to eliminate paper and still didn’t read them! 😩 Lol! But I usually will take a photo of what I really wanted to read from the paper magazine and then throw it out so I can read it later and “keep it”.
I got rid of a toy from when I was 5 or 6 because every time I saw it, it reminded me of the relationship my sister and I had as kids. We were made to compete for everything, and she won the huge version of the toy in the contest (she didn't even want to enter the contest, she only entered because I did). I could never enjoy it because it was always tinged with bad memories and stuck in a box in a closet. No point having something sentimental that you can't enjoy. No regrets!!
Just ruthlessly decluttered my medicine cabinet. I feel so much lighter!
YAY! Good for you!
Loved “ identify the cable “..😂😂😂 u got me
😂😎
Laura, thank you for being so honest and genuine. I'm on my delcuttering journey. Oh! one of the best pieces of advice you gave was "each item we buy will end up in landfill" think it was a book review, I may not have the quote exactly correct but it did stop me buying a couch and started me decluttering. I want to feel at peace with myself and where I live. Best wishes from Ireland.
Yes, that gem was from "The Art of Discarding". It's stopped me from purchasing countless things. Such a simple but powerful insight.
I went through my cables and got rid of all those from before we were married-scary old. Just recently I almost freaked out thinking I got rid of an ethernet cable, but I guess I saved one as a backup and I am very thankful. So, for those who don't want to get rid of every single cable, keep a backup, make sure it's still good, and not more than one of each: ethernet, hdmi, phone charger...though the phone chargers you can buy for $1 at the Dollar Tree in the U.S.
Thank you again and again for your videos, they are gems and always help me see the clutter and deal with it!
I declutter all my wooden pencils because I always lost my sharpener and could not use them when I needed to. Switched to mechanical pencils and it is so much better for me.
Argh! The “really good box” thing. So tough for me. I set 3 aside yesterday. I bought new bed linens and they not only came in nice sturdy individual boxes with nice clean closures…. They came in those zippered plastic bags. I’m running out of uses for these things. And, the cardboard inserts inside the sheets - they are pristine and would be so useful in craft projects… if I could GET to my craft supplies in the storage closet stuffed with other junk. 😩 Sigh…
Maybe you could adopt the one in one out rule to your boxes. Limit yourself to a reasonable number, and when you come into possession of a "really good box" that you want to keep, get rid of a box you already have (perhaps as a donateable donate box). My problem is I tend to keep that sort of "really good box" and never end up actually using it because I'm saving it for the perfect purpose. 😂
@@MelindaPlainandSimple I’ll have a talk with myself and let them go. It’s just my little dance. The truth is - there will always be boxes. 🤷🏼♀️
@@grogers511 True. I think I've had an unhealthy relationship with boxes my whole life. 😂 The struggle is real...
Why have I never associated my anxiety with my stuff in this way?? I thought the stuff just bothered me because I had to find somewhere to store it and therefore things are cluttered or jammed into various closets. Ive never thought of the stuff as like an emotional to do list that subconscious or consciously making me anxious or guilt about not using it etc...what a revelation that is. Thank you
You're very welcome. It can definitely be a drain in so many different ways.
I kept excess pans in my second oven and it caught fire. Now, the 10.00 worth of extra pans will cost me 12,000.00 to replace it. It's a huge stove/ oven!
Ouch!
Actually I was raised keeping boxes by my dad. I have no idea why he does that but I sell things quite often and use them to ship stuff. A lot of things sell for more if you resell them in their original box too.
If you’re going to sell/use it, by all means keep the box. 🙂
So true about the damaged items point. My husband and I are on the tail end of moving and we found the 1/4 of our stuff got mouldy while we were storing it. I’m planning on trying to fix 1 thing- my boots that I wear 250 times a year... but everything else is no great loss
I've been collecting "good boxes" recently!😁 However, I'm using them to pack up unwanted stuff and dropping it to the charity shop!
I have started this journey and I can't believe how emotional it is but once I started I realised the healing power, and the charity shop were well happy - I have done under the stairs , the shed and the wardrobes x2. Bring it to the shop and then you cannot remember what is in the bag!
Exactly! I sometimes look back at old photos and am surprised by how much I see in them that I completely forgot I had.
I'm generally a constant declutterer, but your videos always motivate me to keep it up and they always give me new ideas. Cute pup pup too! 🐕
Brilliant video Laura, just what I needed, thank you
Moving companies like U-Haul sell different sizes of boxes including flatscreen TV boxes, mirrors, glassware, etc., in addition to regular packing boxes and they will buy back your unused boxes if you buy them in bundles.
So, there's no need to hold onto the original packaging because most of the time if you have to ship it back for repair, the original packaging isn't good enough and your item will probably get more damaged in the process especially if you use the Post Office to ship your items because besides losing or misrouting it they will not take tender loving care to your package.
Yes. I have a cupboard of recipes I have kept. That is my focus. Cleaning them out!
Love the way you are with your beautiful fur baby❣️ As always, so helpful with my decluttering journey.😊
Cables! I currently have two shallow boxes of cables at the top of our hall stairs. None of them mine and the two people who need to tell whether they're going out (to be recycled at our Tip) are both too busy to go through it! I know the majority are going out but... 🤷🏻♀️
On the upside, I went through cookbooks I've had for a long time. Went through them and handed 15-20 (small and large) in to the charity shop on Saturday! If we're honest we probably use a handful or a dozen at most that we always return to. I'm sure a few more are going out too. 😊
I couldn’t concentrate! This awesome dog! Love her!!!♥️♥️♥️
Always stealing the spotlight. 😂 She's the best.
Yes, my front right oven burner is my favorite.
I have so many "memories" pictures that stress me out!!!!
I had the book, "Atomic Habits," because everyone was raving about it. I couldn't get through a few chapters but I kept the book. I moved it from California to Oregon. I still didnt read it. I finally gave it to Goodwill. No more guilt.
Well done!
Favourite hob ring: back left!
Love this,currently decluttring and slowly enjoying the process ,the home and myself feel so much lighter 🙌 😍 sentimental stuff is sooooo hard!
I found that I was keeping an Erno laszlo shake it box! I was keeping in my closet because I like the red imitation seal! I definitely put out in recycling. I am totally periodical free, though! We have a good recycling resource for electronics and cords, only have a phone and iPad. I do use the front right burner on my cooktop. I have ocular and skin rosacea so make up is out ; I can only use the shake-it cover up. My minimal very functional Montana wardrobe is for hard often cold work outside, or the gym. As a senior senior, I do not need much. All bets are off when I see a new rose, though!
Heading to Google returning faulty goods without packaging! Thank you for this information. Last year I decluttered a small room that was full of boxes and it is now a playroom for my daughter's toys and books.
Love you videos, I’ve been decluttering for a year now. It’s endless. Of all the items I’ve decluttered, I have missed absolutely nothing.I literally mean nothing. At the time, I thought I might need it, but nope, it’s so freeing. Hugs from Wales uk x
I'm not sure if I agree about all boxes! I can't tell you the relief of moving and having the original box and packaging for my TV and dishes to safely pack up with no additional thought. If you move apartments regularly those are keepers for sure.
I can't say I agree with everything:
Random boxes in general, yes. But if there is a concrete, inevitable purpose in mind for that box, or it's a size that would be hard to replace, putting it away is probably for the best. For example, I have 2 monitors that belong to my workplace. Have had them for about 3 years now, and I still have the boxes they were sent in, because I will eventually have to send them back. I don't want to have to worry about finding a big enough box in the middle of a big life change like moving or switching jobs, so I've folded them up and put them away for when I will inevitably need them.
I also have to disagree about the cables. Especially if the cables are shared, old or mystery cables with weird connectors need to be demystified, because you don't want to accidentally throw away the only charger to your deceased grandpa's ancient voice recorder and only record of his voice by accident. Chances are no one will remember what that cable is for at first glance, so figuring it out before deciding is important. Now, that was an exaggerated example, but my whole family has hoarding tendencies and tantrums over misplaced cables are a thing. People get attached to the oddest things, so one extra cable's worth of space is negligible if it spares you the argument. Also, they can be pretty expensive and a pain to replace, worse if they are old or rare. One HDMI cable might not be a big deal for you, but finding the same length at a reasonable price is time and effort wasted in exchange for a few squared centimeters.
My solution is to wind them all up neatly (though, be gentle, if you hear a crack from your ethernet cable you've just killed it), use a simple label keychain to know at a glance what each of them is for and then store them. The ones for daily use have a compartment in my desk drawer and the rest are stored in a cupboard, in a box, out of sight.
I live alone, so I can pair down the same type of cable at will, but it should be a shared decision if the cables are shared. Yeah, most households probably don't need 6 loose USB A to C cables, but some do, and not having that conversation first is just bound to end unpleasantly.
Hi Laura, You and your dog look very cute in your thumbnail picture today.
I have a thing for jars. I begun to be more ruthless about recycling them lately.
Oh yes, the box of cables. I need help with sorting through them.
Cheers
Loved the Video 💝
I organized my jewelry and found a random plastic bag and threw it away. Later realized it had a diamond in it. So sad!! Double check everything before you toss it.
Definitely a tough realisation. And a good reminder to us all of why it's so important to declutter in the first place, so important and valuable items don't get lost.
I absolutely agree with magazines. Back 15-20 years ago I LOVED magazines, and I spent lots of money and time every month...but I read every single one of them. Nowadays magazines are nothing but glorified, glossy advertisements. There is one exception to that rule for me. I have a subscription to Bella Grace which is more like a coffee table book. I hate clutter, but I display these magazines as if they were precious jewels! I have loved your videos for what seems likes forever; I always learn something valuable.
Thanks so much, Karen. And YES to most magazines basically being glossy advertisements. It seems like there are more ads than actual content!
I love my magazines. They're fun and light. Now when i get one I peruse it for anything I might want to keep and clip it right away (and file it right away). When I get a new one I toss the old one (this is a huge accomplishment). I'm taking my donations out when this video ends. Thanks for the motivation. ☘️
Wuhoo! Well done!
Believe me, as someone who has suffered global amnesia, a box of stuff does nothing whatsoever to help. Trying to remember why each item was kept is more stress than living without the memory. I went through everything I own and if it didn't suit my 'new' life, it was decluttered regardless of whether or not the item was supposed to trigger a memory. This is a symptom of living in the past. Live now. The past is gone and cannot be lived again. No one is guaranteed a future. So dump the memory box.
is she a Portuguese Water Dog? aw. a beauty!
She's an Irish doodle (Irish setter - poodle mix). And the light of my life. 😂
thank you to giving us motivation inspiration 💪👍 😍✨😘
I write the magazine article name or keyword and bring to the library for others to enjoy. So many magazines now online. We keep laptop boxes--many come with the form that ensures it is secure in the box if shipping. I have kept boxes and old plastic bins for donating and bring all to donate. Yesterday we did kitchen downsizing - started with the microwave dying and two hours later, a huge garbage and recycling bags, items to ask if anyone would like, if not, donating. Spur of the moment downsizing is my favorite.
I am obsessed with notebooks and journals. But I recently decluttered most of them and do not miss them at all. I also have vowed not to buy any new ones.
My yearbooks. No regrets. Stuff from ex-bf's. Toys from when I was a kid. I am going to donate a winter coat that has not fit me in 4, 5 years?
We use the front left burner most! And in regards to cords, I got rid of an old cell phone charger (before smart phones were a thing) and wanted old info from it … and now cannot even purchase a new cord because they’re not sold anymore! (I’ve even checked Amazon)
There'll likely be a shop somewhere that will be able to get the info you want from it. 🙂
Just love all your declutter reminds especially when it's about items or habits we probably don't think about too often, or should I say, we don't think bof them often enough... Or maybe we wouldn't have so much clutter. Lok
Dog unmakes bed, hides behind human.
Chef’s Kiss. Will continue to watch for doggo shenanigans.
😂 She’s full of mischief.
LOL on the favourite burner! Mine is the front left burner, maybe because I am left handed :) Love your videos!
I have tons of coax cables, old phone chargers, all kind of electronic cords and cables.
Think of the space you could free up. 🙂
Keeping boxes - this is common for Lego fans and other toy collectors because they think that it's worth some thing. It may be the case, but it just becomes clutter if you get too many and it's hoarder behaviour since all it is is rubbish at the end of the day. I'd rather have my space taken up by other items.
“What a nice box! I can use it to hold my other boxes…”
@@g.m.3054 most of my basic cardboard boxes get broken down ASAP, but I’m a sucker for those nice little boxes that some products come in. I use them for enough random things that I don’t feel too bad hanging into them. I’ve used them for gifting a few times, as well as organizing different art supplies
Love the short hair on you.
Thanks! So much easier to manage.
I keep boxes with warranties.
I'm still working my way through my carrier bag hoard from before they started costing 5-10p each 😂🤣 Nearly gone now - the amount of things to take into school/charity shops - and I've had heavy-duty jute ones for my regular shopping for the past 5-10years?!😂 Love Jovi's "Hey good looking!" (Yes I rewound it to see what it said 😎)... I digress; lots of food for thought there, thank you! 💗
Great ideas and I love your dog, so adorable. X
i have definitely gotten rid of things that o regrer, years later.
Good morning! I’m spending the morning resting. Ah!!!
Lovely! Enjoy. 🙂
I think there’s something to be said for keeping a thing or two cause you might need it. But you really need to be good at identifying what those things are. Like, I actually needed an HDMI cable in the middle of the night and I was lucky that my husband hadn’t tossed the extra. But things like micro usb plugs? Everything comes with those. Keep a spare if you must but I promise if you asked any neighbor if they had one they’d beg you to take a handful they have sitting around. Sometimes things are too expensive for a person to replace on short notice, or are hard to come by. But common items can go for sure! Setting time aside for things is good too. I have a TON of furniture and baby stuff that needs to be out of here. Normally I’d schedule the earliest possible pickup- but I dislocated my thumb and it keeps popping out so I’m in a brace and need help. Instead of putting it off till some undetermined date when I’m healed enough I’ve enlisted help, set a date a week from now for the pickup, and I’m keeping a list cause I know what needs to go but others don’t. This ensures things will get done on time AND nothing is missed! Cause let’s be honest, if it’s missed it’s likely to stay.
I keep boxes because I prefer to have the box if I sell it at the end of the day :/ and I realized how weird that is as I was typing it out, hehe
Not weird at all. If you genuinely think you'll sell it and it will get a higher price if it comes in the original box, by all means keep it. 🙂
I've never regretted getting rid of all these photographs that I never looked at. I didn't enjoy looking through them (to save a handful) and I'm glad I've downsized to a very few albums that are actually easily accessible for me now. I've never regretted getting rid of most of my stuffed animals, either, as soon as I knew they were getting to a good home. (Could not have donated them completely anonymously and fearing what might happen to them.) There are generally very few declutterings that I do regret, and those are the ones I don't really remember having decided on, so I thought I still had them and it turned out I didn't ...?
Oh yes, photographs can be a big one. We tend to attach some special significance to them, which is true of some of them but definitely not all.
CUTE DOG!
Haha, took my a while to decipher GYST. LOL. ☘️
Ugh! I always keep the box. 😱
What about tons of Journals that I've written in? I don't want the clutter but what about the events that were going on at the time? Also sentimental greeting cards especially from lived ones I've lost. Someone help! Thanks.
Thanks for this video. I really needed to hear your thoughts. Your dog is gorgeous. What is her name ? 🐈🐕🐇🐢🦎🐍🌵👩🦳🎃🧡
When you started taking about negative emotions associated with an item, I immediately thought of the divorce paperwork I've been holding onto for almost a decade. I don't just mean the final divorce decree which is important to keep a copy of but like bank statements and other proof of how the other person winged me and mine.
I realize that I really need to let this go. But how do I know what to keep and what I need to hold onto?
Unless you need to keep it for legal reasons (eg. tax documents), it's probably safe to let it go. Can you think of any reason you'd need to keep it?
I have two black English Goldendoodles. They behave very much like yours. They are 4 years old and now I only need to walk them three miles a day, instead of 4-5. Way calmer than when they were pups.🤣🤣🤣
😂 There's hope for her yet so!
Regarding the boxes thing though, I will say that with Apple products, having the box means that if you want to resell it later, you will get more money for it just because it has the box. I personally throw mine out, but my friend upgraded his iPad to a bigger one that he could use with a keyboard when his laptop broke, and he got £30 extra for still having it in a good quality box!
What a world. 😂
@@HowToGYST I know it's crazy isn't it. Personally I think that freeing up the space the boxes take up in that time is probably worth the extra money!
Wish you had timestamps, so I could jump to the next point, or look back after watching to reinforce what you said.
How about Linens ( bath towels , kitchen towels, blankets, sheets)?
If you're not using them, donate them. If they're in good condition, a regular thrift store will take them, or a shelter. If not, an animal rescue may take them. 🙂
Alright where's the camera?! It IS the front right burner for me!😂
Knew it! 😉😂
I would do that with my cords or the cords of the house, but I normally wouldn't even know what cord is what with the ones I do use lol SO I can't lol I did though recently have my hubby sit down with me and go thru my mini box and let go at least half from old things I don't have anymore. Ps if old phones or things don't work, I give them to my kids to pretend play, they love it!
And I have let go a few things on your list. Like magazines, which I don't really miss and they took up so much room. The only one that pings sometimes is one I use to collect since I was a teen, but I stop even looking at them, more of a collection thing which I tend to have a problem with lol. I stopped all magazine subscriptions, and now Meme(hubby mom) Gives me hers that her friends gives her after done reading them. lol I haven't read much from them but I craft with kids using them sometimes.
It's amazing how much physical AND mental space that stuff takes up, isn't it? Great that you've found a way to use them. 🙂
Just declutter 5 dog toys, that needed repair. Haven't fixed them yet, but kept them.
Cords.... I have 2 extra phone cords, for my husband and my phones. Those are in the travel bag, so we don't take ours from home. We have 1 extra HDMI cord, and that's it. Woo hoo. Ahead of that curve.
YESSS! Good for you. 👏
More dog cameos!
I'd love to but she's normally too energetic, jumping all over the place and knocking things over. 😂
Is there a place you would recommend donating old magazines to? I have a block in getting rid of them thinking a school or library would want/use them??
I put mine in a local Little Free Library. They were snapped up. But something like a doctor's office, dentist's office, or nursing home might love them.
Lovely pup, what's her name please? 🐕
Jovie. 🙂
Magazine and catalogs. Keep a year then bye bye to recycling
Um EXCUSE ME how did you know my favorite burner
🙏🙏💫💟
Not helpful regarding prepping as the rule is" if you have 1 you have none, if you have 2 you have none". And privileged assumption that people will always be able to afford or be able to replace something in the future.
Some of the other points are good.