My sister just had a heart attack. She's in the hospital. I'm trying to help get her house better--not perfect--for her to come home. She was really having trouble with her health and Covid-caused inability to get some help. Your techniques are helping me so much to help her: look for trash! I'm doing probably 20 loads of clothes today. You are a lifesaver Dana! Because of you I don't feel so overwhelmed and am able to do one step at a time. Always look: I looked through a pile of her mail and discarded junk mail. Found 4 overdue important bills that I could take care of to keep her insurance from being canceled and get her cars registered, etc . And, yes, DO THE DISHES!
Barbara, your sister is so blessed to have you. My dad had a heart attack in January and my mom and I had to do a lot to help him feel less overwhelmed with everything going on. Once we finish 5 or 6 little things, it has a bigger impact than starting to help with something big. Praying for you and your sister and for her heart to heal.
Enjoy your time off! Us “true” slob fans will still be here waiting for your return! Savour your summer with your family, thanks for all you do for us xoxox
Dana…Dishes!! Ugh! But you are spot on! After living in China for 2 years, My daughter stayed with me for a short time.Several times I caught her hand washing the dishes..I told her “just use the dishwasher.” Her response… Mom, it helps me to acclimate.” Washing dishes is a world wide necessity since the beginning of time. And for my daughter it was therapeutic. Thx for sharing experience & knowledge.
Oh, I should have watched to the end. You have a great summer. Being a mom is plenty of work. I know! Having a break can be really refreshing. Can't wait until fall!
"But do you know what actually changed my house? Doing my dishes. And doing 5 minute pick-ups. And getting stuff out of my house". Amen to that. So true. I'm sitting here, tired, overwhelmed - looking to you for a bit of inspiration/motivation/encouragement - and there it is right there. Do the basics. Little and often. One small step at a time. Progress not perfection. We can do this!! Thank You Dana :) xx
1. We love you! 2. Cried when you talked about summer off, because YES my kiddos are grown and out - TAKE the summer and BE with them!!! 3. Cried again when you choked up that Reid is going away. 4. Lost it with the end notes and laughed at the same time. HUGS my friend. God bless you and your summer!!!
You create phrases that become my go tos. New this time-don’t reinvent, restart. You are a mastermind of phrases. It is your talent. Now that my material stuff is an inventory I can manage. I have also learned to take it there now right away throughout the day so my pickups don’t take so long. I am now thinning out and reducing activities and commitments. I also do much less shopping as a form of relaxation and stress relief. I am living a more meaningful life.
Hi Dana, hope you are enjoying your time with the kids this summer. Just want to let you know that the concept of limiting the space to keep items in our "living container" has been a Godsend! I am one of those "but what if I need it" people that has anxiety if I think of getting rid of something I think is useful. It has gotten worse with the recent shortages. I have been VERY successful with limiting the amount I keep to one container.....and I recycle or remove the rest. Keeps everything manageable, and I have it if I need it......no anxiety when it goes in the trash or recycling. I am also a multicrafter.....sewing, quilting, embroidery, knit, and crochet. I have been diligently reducing all my stashes, including tools I do not use. I have been working on finishing projects, I cannot buy yarn unless I need it for a specific project. I shop my stash first. I just boxed up 90% of my embroidery stash to give to my little sister. I only kept a few projects that I thought I might finish......and where would I look for it first? also has been a Godsend. So, thank you....look forward to your return. 💜💜💐
I’ve been really ill for the past two and a bit years and have just had a run of flu in January gastro in February, flu in March, flu in May and now bacterial bronchitis on top of my chronic health conditions. Living alone in a simplified house has made this much easier than it would have been otherwise. Doing the dishes is sometimes all I can do and other times I can add in the five minute pickups but my house has stayed under control virtually the whole time. Not perfect behind every cupboard door in the bedrooms, but all the other drawers and cupboards and all the visible surfaces are company ready. Thank you for all your tips, wisdom and inspiration.
Summers off is a great idea, especially at the big transition times. Big kudos to Reid on his great accomplishment. I think it's safe to say that we are proud of him with you.
Have a brilliant summer. Enjoy the break and recharge. Love to you and your family. Special thanks to Reid for slowing the credits so I can read them now. xxx
Dana, I hope you have an absolutely wonderful Summer. I hope you and your family squeeze every single moment out of every single day. A season of rest, self-care and time with those you love is vital. ❤️ Kudos to you, Reid. Congratulations on your next chapter.
This is just what I needed to hear. My life feels like this almost all the time with three little kids. I look around and get overwhelmed by the big projects. I think if I break them down into smaller sections I’ll feel like I have some wins. So glad to hear how you’re prioritizing your family in the summer and resting!
Dana, you're being so wise...to really focus on your family...kids need their parents EVEN MORE when they're teens....and, for yourself You need that time...I APPLAUD you. LOVE your videos ....so practical. Yesterday, I was putting away the Easter...and, getting out the summer decor. I decided, at that moment, to practice your method of "putting it away" with the decor that suddenly became donations....it felt so good to just go put it in the garage donation box right at that moment....in fact, I got rid of 1 whole tote...YAYYYY!!😀😀😀
I have a plan of eating from my pantry/freezer and fridge and growing food indoors at big windows. I'm setting up the pantry areas by cuisine in unbreakable containers that stack. The take it there now works well for this project. I'm retired and chronicly in pain or ill. So my life's definition is loosy-goosy.
We'll miss you Reid. Thank you for helping/working for your mom so we can all enjoy these videos. All the best for you. And congratulations on graduating! Yay! Thank you Dana for your ever practical help.
Goodness I will miss y’all like crazy. Thanks for letting us know it’s just a temporary break. You are such a blessing to my family. I am so grateful for all you give to us viewers. Thanks Reid for helping your mom- you are amazing!!
Way to model self care! Good job Dana and Reid! Also, doing the dishes first is really helping, I am including picking up trash now. Thank you Dana, have a rejuvenating summer!
Thank you! My husband is disabled. On good weeks he goes out for an hour on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. But it is not reliable, and he often comes home sooner than I thought. For a long time I have not felt able to start the sorting-out because I might be interrupted, I do get interrupted! Doing the dishes means we have clean plates and cutlery and saucepans. When I get to other bits, that's a bonus.
I was making sure to clean my bathroom once a week. It didn’t matter what day, just as long as it was done Friday at the latest. I did so good with it for several months. We then went on a 2 week trip and my habit went all to heck...the trip was 4 years ago😂.
Dana I hope you see this message. I know you don’t consider your self to be a minimalist. I have been practicing minimalism for 6 years. Your work which I came across maybe a year ago and have really embraced over the past 5 months ago - has been more helpful and impactful than any single persons method or info. I always recommend your videos to people because it’s the thing that can make the biggest difference especially for beginners. When I first saw Dawn do the no mess decluttering method in one of her videos I’m sure I rolled my eyes and thought it was just silly to work in that way. I’m definitely a convert now tho. And with take it there now, the container concept etc- I’ve been able to go farther than I have in the past. Thank you
Me too! I have read so many books and they can be so dang preachy. Dana has been down in the trenches and her method is so simple and straight forward. I can do her method.
I remember that video from Dawn! So glad she found Dana & eventually both teamed up with Cass so that I could Take Back my House. Have a great summer Dana & Reid!
Dana, this is an incredibly profound reminder! I’m just facing a major illness with both my husband and my brother. Life feels like an earthquake right now. Your advice pertains to life in general as well as my house. Thanks for the timely great advice!! Enjoy your summer!!
I am a caregiver to my husband and that is Loosey Goosey times all year around. It's the little things I do each day that keeps me from feeling overwhelmed. You are not alone and thanks for sharing. This is a great community
Looking forward to your return , your podcasts have been inspirational while your on break . Thank you so much for all you share , hope your having a fantastic summer 🤩
Have a wonderful summer! Thank you, Reid, for all of your hard work! I always enjoy the credits!!! I look forward to videos and podcasts in the fall, and meanwhile I will simply rewatch, relisten, and reread. No one else helps me as much as you do. Thank you!
Dude, do you know how super helpful it is to have you keep saying the obvious things like 'do the dishes' and 'throw out the trash'? sooooo helpful. Your videos and podcasts and audiobooks are the soundtrack of me working on my house. Thank you so much for being willing to say the obvious thing over and over. Have an awesome summer! See you in the fall!
Dana I hope you see this. I just want you to know how grateful I am to have found your videos! Everything you teach makes sense and has helped me so much!!! Today I finished the majority of my upstairs that every summer when school was out I was going to declutter and clean. One example: I chose a space for my knitting and crocheting books and now have 3 stacks of books to take to the library! Even a cherished collection of one author! Every year friends and family have chuckled, rolled their eyes, etc. when I say I’m going to do this when school is out. Well not any more!!!!!! It feels like a weight has been lifted!!!!! This will be the first year I can go back to school not feeling like I failed yet again!!! And I’m so happy you take summers off to enjoy your family! Enjoy your break and thank you again for all of your wonderful advice! I’ll read your latest book while you’re offline.
This is so relevant. My kids are 3, 6, & 7. My oldest has special needs & has been hospitalized 7 times since September. My house was already OOC (out of control) and it’s gotten worse and worse. Thank you for making me feel normal.
This resonates! I’ve read two of your three books and l’m nearly finished decluttering the house with the goal of all spaces limited to 60% full or less. l’m newly retired, so l’m having more visits at my house. Company dropped in unannounced last week and I enjoyed the co. in a clean and neat house. These are my deals… 1. Beds made, and dishes done immediately after any snack or meal. 2. Laundry started, but not removed from the dryer until I can fold and put each load away (with the exception of clothes l don’t want wrinkled). 3. Everything else is in its place because I don’t put it down, l put it away where it belongs, as you suggest. This, friend, is golden 🏆!!! 4. Multi-tasking leaves several projects scattered around. l don’t do that (except for laundry). One task means a fast pick-up. 5. l stick to a daily schedule of housework duties. ln the summer, l double them up because l have yardwork to do and some painted house-trim to keep clean. So, it doesn’t take me longer than 10 minutes to tidy the house before someone says they’re on their way. In that situation, I might have only to sweep the front porch, and wipe down the front door. Basically, chores are non-negotiable, unless life happens, as in summer when the grandkids are here often. I’ll use your tips. Thank you.
Thanks Dana...well I'm a retiree...no kids at home only 5 little dogs and I still got loosey goosey and let my house go for awhile ...bad decision cuz as we all know then the bad fairies bring in stuff and I get over whelmed again...but I'm back to gettin it done again! You are very wise Dana to take the summer off and enjoy your life and your family all you can. We all need that kind of mental reset too. Love Reid for his credits and humor ...like mother like son. I wish you all the best and will see you in the fall!!
I say my clutter has babies in the night! Actually I forget the one in and out thing. Even with decluttering i realize it is a process and takes time. Thanks for sharing
I love your tips… I always think 🤔 you are the best person to draw on when I freeze from feeling overwhelmed- your steps unsticks me from immobilization.
Hi Dana!! Since I read your new book, I have been mostly doing the dishes before bedtime. I'm going to go on a holiday for respite and hoping to rest up and walk along the beach...hoping the weather will be nice!! it looks promising!! Thank you so much for turning my life around without you, Dawn and Cassandra, I would be in a bigger mess now..
You have changed my life so much!! Thank you for all of your podcasts, videos, and I hope to one day buy the books! I am a teacher and mother, so thank you for enjoying your summer with your family. Meanwhile, I’m restarting your Podcasts from the beginning, and I must say, thank you for being brave enough to share your struggles. You feel like my big sister.💕
Also... I have moved to a new home & have also been using your decluttering & cleaning habits. Trash first, donate bin & "take it there now". As my daughter & I were setting up the dining room, we found stuff from all over the house. I'd grab it or hand it off and say, "Dana says take it there now!" 😁 thx Dana
I totally understand why you need to take a break. Have a wonderful summer. I want to thank you for your videos They really help me. I’m not where I should be but I’m not where I used to be and for that I’m truly grateful . See you in the fall. May God bless you as much as you have blessed others!
This summer I started getting the children to clean up their bedroom floors in the morning (dirty laundry etc). And also we make their beds every morning. For me that’s a huge boost if we can get that done!
Thank you SO MUCH for this video! It came just in the nick of time! My son graduated from HS last week and the day before his graduation party this past weekend he and I got sick and we had to cancel the party! My house is upside down and loaded with so many things for the party that didn’t happen. Now that I’m starting to get my energy back, I really feel overwhelmed. I’m going to start slow…and of course, start with the dishes! Enjoy your summer!!!
Thank you so much for these great tips, as always! Enjoy your family time and some relaxation this summer! We'll be here when you return. It's great that you are prioritizing what matters most - family and time to rejuvenate.🌺
Congratulations on reaching 100,000 subscribers! You have been such a help to me through your books, groups, RUclips, etc. It's awesome seeing so many others benefitting from the insights you share. You are so much appreciated. Thank you for all you do to keep us moving forward and hope you're enjoying your time off!
Such a timely message! My daughter is home from college, my son is out of school and I’ve just this week switched to 10-hour days at work. I have more people always at home making messes and I have so much less time in the evenings for my routine. I’m doing the dishes though! Thank you for reminding us how big the little things are!
I needed this- just restart! We’ve been living through a kitchen renovation and our our (that I had gotten under control with your methods during normal times) went haywire! It’s been stressful and the whole family has gotten in bad habits of piling things around. The kitchen is almost done, so now it’s just time to restart! Thank you for being awesome as always
Have a fabulous summer with your family! We will enjoy seeing you again when you return. Make some fun memories! And I do want to hear about that okra…but first family.😊❤️
Spot on!!! Your advice has been SO helpful to me, & just this morning before watching this, I did just what you said: stopped myself from starting something new b/c I had bits & pieces left of earlier tasks. For at least 2 years I have resisted tearing the wallpaper over in our bathroom, despite seeing a couple of corners curve up & tempt me just to dive in. I refuse to let myself start that project until I have decluttered. Your TAKE IT THERE NOW is my mantra & has helped so much! Ditto for BETTER, NOT PERFECT! I can’t thank you enough. And I totally understand the emotion in your voice & face. Our daughter is grown & out on her own, but I started crying when she was in 8th grade, just thinking about that day. You’ll be ok, but it’s definitely a transition! Love your channel & you!
Love your videos! They have made SUCH a difference. I'd rather you take the summer off and take care of yourself, so we can have your videos in the long run. Enjoy!
Another GREAT episode: Just restart--don't reinvent! I have been out working in the yard for Spring & that means= my house goes to H...ll in a Handbasket! Yes, it is so easy to come & then decide to Ignore the piles of clutter & decide to--Paint--LOL! Thanks Dana--You Are Such A Great Coach!!
Ha ha I can relate! Getting our yard back in tip top shape and planting our veggie garden means our house is very neglected recently. Oh well! I don’t mind! I love being outside and getting my hands in the dirt 😊
I'll miss your pep talks, but I totally get the need for time off. I look forward to your return with the colder weather. Have a great summer. (And washing the dishes has become my go-to nowadays.)
Smart and intuitive on your part Dana. Time passes so quickly whether we realize it or not. Enjoy your family, rest and re-charge your batteries and come back with the joyful playfulness you bring to your channel!
This was my week. After my son being in a play over the weekend, teens leaving for camp, spending as much time as possible at the pool, I had to stay home today to get all the clean laundry put away. We kept moving it on and off the couch so I just had to get it taken care of. I was surprised after getting all the clothes put away, how the house wasn’t really that bad after getting that done. I can really see how much better things are with sticking to decluttering!
I just got the audible book how to manage home without losing your mind.....love it so far and even paused it after I got home from a closing shift and took care of some things! You put it in such a good way that I felt like I understood myself and confirmed what I knew I needed to do for the last 6months but ppl said wasn't enough and I just didn't. As you said in your book. I stepped out of the kitchen and bathroom and stepped back in and felt a difference - and I fixed my sink disposal which fixed my dishwasher to learn to use it- cuz I never grew up with it and never used them in apartments.....thank you 🤣❤️😀
Thank you for this video! My youngest just started back to school, my oldest is still working during the day, we've added animals, and appointments, and I've been so lost. I got things situated with the changes this summer, but I'm still completely out of sorts this fall. Thanks for the tips to get it figured out.
Love your channel! That’s awesome that you take summers off and set aside that time to focus on family. You absolutely deserve some downtime and balance! Thank you for setting the example for self care and taking time to reset and recharge. I can rewatch your previous videos and re-listen to your books over the summer! 😃 You enjoy your family. 😊
This is so helpful. Thank you for laying such a doable foundation for unstructured times. When I want to do nothing, I literally hear you saying “do the dishes,” in my head! Also appreciate that you shared you’re taking time off and how that works in your life. Those insights are helpful to know. Happy summer to you and your family!
just stopped by to say that i hope your summer has been fantabulous and I for one can't wait for it to be over because I miss you. i hope you and your family are happy and healthy. I'm sure I speak for all of your subscribers that we are SOOOO looking forward to your return
Dana, it's perfectly great that you want to take a summer break and spend time with your family!!! We'll be here when you get back! Have a great summer!!!!!!!!!!
Needed this! I have several unfinished things I need to get to and just get to feeling defeated. I'm caring for an aging parent one mle away, trying to keep up with that household and running out of energy when I'm finally in my own home. Minor items. Not out of control, just unfinished things...I simply need to get them done. Pick one, and just do it. Enjoy your summer!!!
Oooh yes ! Take the summer off, Dana ! Rejuvenate yourself & prevent burn out. Pacing yourself for the WIN ! I love this !! Thanks for another great video ! Hugs from Buffalo NY , Liz
Can I just say, it is so powerful for you to set your strong summer boundary. I really think youtube (and actually all of us) could do with more of it.
My sister just had a heart attack. She's in the hospital. I'm trying to help get her house better--not perfect--for her to come home. She was really having trouble with her health and Covid-caused inability to get some help. Your techniques are helping me so much to help her: look for trash! I'm doing probably 20 loads of clothes today. You are a lifesaver Dana! Because of you I don't feel so overwhelmed and am able to do one step at a time. Always look: I looked through a pile of her mail and discarded junk mail. Found 4 overdue important bills that I could take care of to keep her insurance from being canceled and get her cars registered, etc . And, yes, DO THE DISHES!
Bless you for helping her !
Barbara, your sister is so blessed to have you. My dad had a heart attack in January and my mom and I had to do a lot to help him feel less overwhelmed with everything going on. Once we finish 5 or 6 little things, it has a bigger impact than starting to help with something big. Praying for you and your sister and for her heart to heal.
@@bethjloveswax Thank you so much!❤
You are such a blessing to her
God bless you for coming along side your dear sister. Prayers for her recovery.
Enjoy your time off! Us “true” slob fans will still be here waiting for your return! Savour your summer with your family, thanks for all you do for us xoxox
Thank you. No one has spoken to my type of thinking like this.
Dana…Dishes!! Ugh! But you are spot on! After living in China for 2 years, My daughter stayed with me for a short time.Several times I caught her hand washing the dishes..I told her “just use the dishwasher.” Her response… Mom, it helps me to acclimate.”
Washing dishes is a world wide necessity since the beginning of time. And for my daughter it was therapeutic.
Thx for sharing experience & knowledge.
Wow! Putting your mental health and your family first...what a concept!! Good for you girl!!
Oh, I should have watched to the end. You have a great summer. Being a mom is plenty of work. I know! Having a break can be really refreshing. Can't wait until fall!
"But do you know what actually changed my house? Doing my dishes. And doing 5 minute pick-ups. And getting stuff out of my house". Amen to that. So true. I'm sitting here, tired, overwhelmed - looking to you for a bit of inspiration/motivation/encouragement - and there it is right there. Do the basics. Little and often. One small step at a time. Progress not perfection. We can do this!! Thank You Dana :) xx
1. We love you! 2. Cried when you talked about summer off, because YES my kiddos are grown and out - TAKE the summer and BE with them!!! 3. Cried again when you choked up that Reid is going away. 4. Lost it with the end notes and laughed at the same time. HUGS my friend. God bless you and your summer!!!
Hahah! Yes - those credits were brilliant!! :D
You create phrases that become my go tos. New this time-don’t reinvent, restart. You are a mastermind of phrases. It is your talent.
Now that my material stuff is an inventory I can manage. I have also learned to take it there now right away throughout the day so my pickups don’t take so long.
I am now thinning out and reducing activities and commitments. I also do much less shopping as a form of relaxation and stress relief.
I am living a more meaningful life.
Hi Dana, hope you are enjoying your time with the kids this summer. Just want to let you know that the concept of limiting the space to keep items in our "living container" has been a Godsend! I am one of those "but what if I need it" people that has anxiety if I think of getting rid of something I think is useful. It has gotten worse with the recent shortages. I have been VERY successful with limiting the amount I keep to one container.....and I recycle or remove the rest. Keeps everything manageable, and I have it if I need it......no anxiety when it goes in the trash or recycling. I am also a multicrafter.....sewing, quilting, embroidery, knit, and crochet. I have been diligently reducing all my stashes, including tools I do not use. I have been working on finishing projects, I cannot buy yarn unless I need it for a specific project. I shop my stash first. I just boxed up 90% of my embroidery stash to give to my little sister. I only kept a few projects that I thought I might finish......and where would I look for it first? also has been a Godsend. So, thank you....look forward to your return. 💜💜💐
I’ve been really ill for the past two and a bit years and have just had a run of flu in January gastro in February, flu in March, flu in May and now bacterial bronchitis on top of my chronic health conditions. Living alone in a simplified house has made this much easier than it would have been otherwise. Doing the dishes is sometimes all I can do and other times I can add in the five minute pickups but my house has stayed under control virtually the whole time. Not perfect behind every cupboard door in the bedrooms, but all the other drawers and cupboards and all the visible surfaces are company ready. Thank you for all your tips, wisdom and inspiration.
Summers off is a great idea, especially at the big transition times. Big kudos to Reid on his great accomplishment. I think it's safe to say that we are proud of him with you.
Looking after yourself is and should alway be top priority. Well done 👏 Have a wonderful summer. Stay safe and healthy. Mary 👏👍💪🙏💐
Have a brilliant summer. Enjoy the break and recharge. Love to you and your family. Special thanks to Reid for slowing the credits so I can read them now. xxx
"Take it there now" has helped me in so many ways... unpacking from business trips, and just coming home each day. Thanks for the inspiration!!
Enjoy your summer, Dana! We have plenty of your videos to watch and review!! Thank you again!
Dana, I hope you have an absolutely wonderful Summer. I hope you and your family squeeze every single moment out of every single day. A season of rest, self-care and time with those you love is vital. ❤️ Kudos to you, Reid. Congratulations on your next chapter.
This is just what I needed to hear. My life feels like this almost all the time with three little kids. I look around and get overwhelmed by the big projects. I think if I break them down into smaller sections I’ll feel like I have some wins.
So glad to hear how you’re prioritizing your family in the summer and resting!
I will miss you, and will be glad when you are back. It is the teacher in you!
I'm going to miss her but I'm so glad she putting her family first
“Better and less” is one of my favorite quotes. Thanks!
Dana, you're being so wise...to really focus on your family...kids need their parents EVEN MORE when they're teens....and, for yourself You need that time...I APPLAUD you.
LOVE your videos ....so practical.
Yesterday, I was putting away the Easter...and, getting out the summer decor.
I decided, at that moment, to practice your method of "putting it away" with the decor that suddenly became donations....it felt so good to just go put it in the garage donation box right at that moment....in fact, I got rid of 1 whole tote...YAYYYY!!😀😀😀
I have a plan of eating from my pantry/freezer and fridge and growing food indoors at big windows. I'm setting up the pantry areas by cuisine in unbreakable containers that stack. The take it there now works well for this project. I'm retired and chronicly in pain or ill. So my life's definition is loosy-goosy.
We'll miss you Reid. Thank you for helping/working for your mom so we can all enjoy these videos. All the best for you. And congratulations on graduating! Yay! Thank you Dana for your ever practical help.
Love this one! With 11 kids, their spouses, 17 grandkids and in-laws living with us, life is only loosey-goosey.🤣 Thank you for the reminder!
Wow!! That’s a lot of people in one house! Puts thinks in perspective for me! 😆
Goodness I will miss y’all like crazy. Thanks for letting us know it’s just a temporary break. You are such a blessing to my family. I am so grateful for all you give to us viewers. Thanks Reid for helping your mom- you are amazing!!
Way to model self care! Good job Dana and Reid! Also, doing the dishes first is really helping, I am including picking up trash now. Thank you Dana, have a rejuvenating summer!
Thank you! My husband is disabled. On good weeks he goes out for an hour on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. But it is not reliable, and he often comes home sooner than I thought. For a long time I have not felt able to start the sorting-out because I might be interrupted, I do get interrupted! Doing the dishes means we have clean plates and cutlery and saucepans. When I get to other bits, that's a bonus.
Yessss 💕
I was making sure to clean my bathroom once a week. It didn’t matter what day, just as long as it was done Friday at the latest. I did so good with it for several months. We then went on a 2 week trip and my habit went all to heck...the trip was 4 years ago😂.
Have an amazing summer Dana. You will be missed and if anything I will wash my dishes every day 😊
Thank you! What a BLESSING you are to me! You bring me hope and renewed motivation!
Enjoy your summer with your family, Dana!!! Thank you for all you do AND thank Reid too!!!!
Dana I hope you see this message. I know you don’t consider your self to be a minimalist. I have been practicing minimalism for 6 years. Your work which I came across maybe a year ago and have really embraced over the past 5 months ago - has been more helpful and impactful than any single persons method or info. I always recommend your videos to people because it’s the thing that can make the biggest difference especially for beginners. When I first saw Dawn do the no mess decluttering method in one of her videos I’m sure I rolled my eyes and thought it was just silly to work in that way. I’m definitely a convert now tho. And with take it there now, the container concept etc- I’ve been able to go farther than I have in the past. Thank you
I feel the same!
Me too! I have read so many books and they can be so dang preachy. Dana has been down in the trenches and her method is so simple and straight forward. I can do her method.
I remember that video from Dawn! So glad she found Dana & eventually both teamed up with Cass so that I could Take Back my House. Have a great summer Dana & Reid!
Dana, this is an incredibly profound reminder! I’m just facing a major illness with both my husband and my brother. Life feels like an earthquake right now. Your advice pertains to life in general as well as my house. Thanks for the timely great advice!! Enjoy your summer!!
I am a caregiver to my husband and that is Loosey Goosey times all year around. It's the little things I do each day that keeps me from feeling overwhelmed. You are not alone and thanks for sharing. This is a great community
Looking forward to your return , your podcasts have been inspirational while your on break . Thank you so much for all you share , hope your having a fantastic summer 🤩
Have a wonderful summer! Thank you, Reid, for all of your hard work! I always enjoy the credits!!!
I look forward to videos and podcasts in the fall, and meanwhile I will simply rewatch, relisten, and reread. No one else helps me as much as you do. Thank you!
Have a relaxing summer!
Will miss you. Recharge and refresh. Enjoy the freedom of summer!
Dude, do you know how super helpful it is to have you keep saying the obvious things like 'do the dishes' and 'throw out the trash'? sooooo helpful. Your videos and podcasts and audiobooks are the soundtrack of me working on my house. Thank you so much for being willing to say the obvious thing over and over. Have an awesome summer! See you in the fall!
As a retired teacher, I understand the need for summers off. ENJOY!! And many thanks for all that you do💝.
Dana I hope you see this. I just want you to know how grateful I am to have found your videos! Everything you teach makes sense and has helped me so much!!! Today I finished the majority of my upstairs that every summer when school was out I was going to declutter and clean. One example: I chose a space for my knitting and crocheting books and now have 3 stacks of books to take to the library! Even a cherished collection of one author! Every year friends and family have chuckled, rolled their eyes, etc. when I say I’m going to do this when school is out. Well not any more!!!!!! It feels like a weight has been lifted!!!!! This will be the first year I can go back to school not feeling like I failed yet again!!! And I’m so happy you take summers off to enjoy your family! Enjoy your break and thank you again for all of your wonderful advice! I’ll read your latest book while you’re offline.
This is so relevant. My kids are 3, 6, & 7. My oldest has special needs & has been hospitalized 7 times since September. My house was already OOC (out of control) and it’s gotten worse and worse. Thank you for making me feel normal.
Hope yr 7yo is well again soon 🤗. Yes the clutter struggle is real. 5mins better is good enough 💕
This resonates! I’ve read two of your three books and l’m nearly finished decluttering the house with the goal of all spaces limited to 60% full or less.
l’m newly retired, so l’m having more visits at my house. Company dropped in unannounced last week and I enjoyed the co. in a clean and neat house.
These are my deals…
1. Beds made, and dishes done immediately after any snack or meal.
2. Laundry started, but not removed from the dryer until I can fold and put each load away (with the exception of clothes l don’t want wrinkled).
3. Everything else is in its place because I don’t put it down, l put it away where it belongs, as you suggest. This, friend, is golden 🏆!!!
4. Multi-tasking leaves several projects scattered around. l don’t do that (except for laundry). One task means a fast pick-up.
5. l stick to a daily schedule of housework duties. ln the summer, l double them up because l have yardwork to do and some painted house-trim to keep clean.
So, it doesn’t take me longer than 10 minutes to tidy the house before someone says they’re on their way. In that situation, I might have only to sweep the front porch, and wipe down the front door.
Basically, chores are non-negotiable, unless life happens, as in summer when the grandkids are here often. I’ll use your tips. Thank you.
Thanks Dana...well I'm a retiree...no kids at home only 5 little dogs and I still got loosey goosey and let my house go for awhile ...bad decision cuz as we all know then the bad fairies bring in stuff and I get over whelmed again...but I'm back to gettin it done again! You are very wise Dana to take the summer off and enjoy your life and your family all you can. We all need that kind of mental reset too. Love Reid for his credits and humor ...like mother like son. I wish you all the best and will see you in the fall!!
I say my clutter has babies in the night! Actually I forget the one in and out thing. Even with decluttering i realize it is a process and takes time. Thanks for sharing
I love your tips… I always think 🤔 you are the best person to draw on when I freeze from feeling overwhelmed- your steps unsticks me from immobilization.
Wow, when your babies move out it is rough. I felt that.
Enjoy every minute you can with your family! God bless!
Hi Dana!! Since I read your new book, I have been mostly doing the dishes before bedtime. I'm going to go on a holiday for respite and hoping to rest up and walk along the beach...hoping the weather will be nice!! it looks promising!! Thank you so much for turning my life around without you, Dawn and Cassandra, I would be in a bigger mess now..
You have changed my life so much!! Thank you for all of your podcasts, videos, and I hope to one day buy the books! I am a teacher and mother, so thank you for enjoying your summer with your family. Meanwhile, I’m restarting your Podcasts from the beginning, and I must say, thank you for being brave enough to share your struggles. You feel like my big sister.💕
Also... I have moved to a new home & have also been using your decluttering & cleaning habits. Trash first, donate bin & "take it there now". As my daughter & I were setting up the dining room, we found stuff from all over the house. I'd grab it or hand it off and say, "Dana says take it there now!" 😁 thx Dana
Have a good summer.
I totally understand why you need to take a break. Have a wonderful summer. I want to thank you for your videos They really help me. I’m not where I should be but I’m not where I used to be and for that I’m truly grateful . See you in the fall. May God bless you as much as you have blessed others!
This summer I started getting the children to clean up their bedroom floors in the morning (dirty laundry etc). And also we make their beds every morning. For me that’s a huge boost if we can get that done!
Dear Editor, she cares. I can see the Mama love in her eyes as she paused. I have one joining the army. It is hard as a mama. You will both make it.
Dana, have a great summer. Will miss the videos but everyone needs a break. Enjoy your family time.
I am working on my closet today! I am trying to be brutal about it. I feel myself slowing down…so I have been listening to you for motivation!
Thank you SO MUCH for this video! It came just in the nick of time! My son graduated from HS last week and the day before his graduation party this past weekend he and I got sick and we had to cancel the party! My house is upside down and loaded with so many things for the party that didn’t happen. Now that I’m starting to get my energy back, I really feel overwhelmed. I’m going to start slow…and of course, start with the dishes! Enjoy your summer!!!
Thank you so much for these great tips, as always! Enjoy your family time and some relaxation this summer! We'll be here when you return. It's great that you are prioritizing what matters most - family and time to rejuvenate.🌺
This was a super helpful reminder to restart not reinvent! Thank you so much Dana!!! 🥰
Praying for Texas
Congratulations on reaching 100,000 subscribers! You have been such a help to me through your books, groups, RUclips, etc. It's awesome seeing so many others benefitting from the insights you share. You are so much appreciated. Thank you for all you do to keep us moving forward and hope you're enjoying your time off!
Such a timely message! My daughter is home from college, my son is out of school and I’ve just this week switched to 10-hour days at work. I have more people always at home making messes and I have so much less time in the evenings for my routine. I’m doing the dishes though! Thank you for reminding us how big the little things are!
Dana - good for you for taking time off for yourself and your family. This precious time will not come again.
Have a great summer. I am glad you are taking time off for yourself and your family.
I needed this- just restart! We’ve been living through a kitchen renovation and our our (that I had gotten under control with your methods during normal times) went haywire! It’s been stressful and the whole family has gotten in bad habits of piling things around. The kitchen is almost done, so now it’s just time to restart! Thank you for being awesome as always
Dana, thank you for being you! You have helped me so much. You are someone I can relate to💯
Enjoy your rest and your summer with Reid!! I felt those momma tears choking back at the end there! I dread the day my babes will fly the coop.
Have a fabulous summer with your family! We will enjoy seeing you again when you return. Make some fun memories! And I do want to hear about that okra…but first family.😊❤️
Enjoy your summer will be here when you come back!
Spot on!!! Your advice has been SO helpful to me, & just this morning before watching this, I did just what you said: stopped myself from starting something new b/c I had bits & pieces left of earlier tasks. For at least 2 years I have resisted tearing the wallpaper over in our bathroom, despite seeing a couple of corners curve up & tempt me just to dive in. I refuse to let myself start that project until I have decluttered. Your TAKE IT THERE NOW is my mantra & has helped so much! Ditto for BETTER, NOT PERFECT! I can’t thank you enough. And I totally understand the emotion in your voice & face. Our daughter is grown & out on her own, but I started crying when she was in 8th grade, just thinking about that day. You’ll be ok, but it’s definitely a transition! Love your channel & you!
Enjoy your summer!!!
Enjoy your summer!
Love Reid and his comments. Hope he has a great experience in college next year!
Love your videos! They have made SUCH a difference. I'd rather you take the summer off and take care of yourself, so we can have your videos in the long run. Enjoy!
I blame you for me using 'do-lolly" instead of "whatchumacallit".🤣
Your methods are so doable!!! Thank you for sharing them with me.
Awwww mine is going away to college in the fall, too, (far away) so I TOTALLY felt that deep breath.
Another GREAT episode: Just restart--don't reinvent! I have been out working in the yard for Spring & that means= my house goes to H...ll in a Handbasket! Yes, it is so easy to come & then decide to Ignore the piles of clutter & decide to--Paint--LOL! Thanks Dana--You Are Such A Great Coach!!
Ha ha I can relate! Getting our yard back in tip top shape and planting our veggie garden means our house is very neglected recently. Oh well! I don’t mind! I love being outside and getting my hands in the dirt 😊
I'll miss your pep talks, but I totally get the need for time off. I look forward to your return with the colder weather. Have a great summer. (And washing the dishes has become my go-to nowadays.)
We too are taking the month of June completely off from many things. Enjoy the break and summer with your sons,. So proud of your young men.
Smart and intuitive on your part Dana. Time passes so quickly whether we realize it or not. Enjoy your family, rest and re-charge your batteries and come back with the joyful playfulness you bring to your channel!
This was my week. After my son being in a play over the weekend, teens leaving for camp, spending as much time as possible at the pool, I had to stay home today to get all the clean laundry put away. We kept moving it on and off the couch so I just had to get it taken care of. I was surprised after getting all the clothes put away, how the house wasn’t really that bad after getting that done. I can really see how much better things are with sticking to decluttering!
I like “loosey-goosey” instead of “in a rut” lol 😂 how about having a newborn and 4 siblings under 11 😂 wish me luck this summer! 💪🏼🙏🏼
I just got the audible book how to manage home without losing your mind.....love it so far and even paused it after I got home from a closing shift and took care of some things! You put it in such a good way that I felt like I understood myself and confirmed what I knew I needed to do for the last 6months but ppl said wasn't enough and I just didn't. As you said in your book. I stepped out of the kitchen and bathroom and stepped back in and felt a difference - and I fixed my sink disposal which fixed my dishwasher to learn to use it- cuz I never grew up with it and never used them in apartments.....thank you 🤣❤️😀
We will miss you, but totally understand!! Reid, you are a hoot!!
Thank you for this video! My youngest just started back to school, my oldest is still working during the day, we've added animals, and appointments, and I've been so lost. I got things situated with the changes this summer, but I'm still completely out of sorts this fall. Thanks for the tips to get it figured out.
Good luck Reid!! Don't worry about your mom after summer -- us 'slobs' will keep her busy and entertained!! To Dana, you got this!!!
Love your channel! That’s awesome that you take summers off and set aside that time to focus on family. You absolutely deserve some downtime and balance! Thank you for setting the example for self care and taking time to reset and recharge. I can rewatch your previous videos and re-listen to your books over the summer! 😃 You enjoy your family. 😊
This is so helpful. Thank you for laying such a doable foundation for unstructured times. When I want to do nothing, I literally hear you saying “do the dishes,” in my head! Also appreciate that you shared you’re taking time off and how that works in your life. Those insights are helpful to know. Happy summer to you and your family!
Enjoy your break!!
just stopped by to say that i hope your summer has been fantabulous and I for one can't wait for it to be over because I miss you. i hope you and your family are happy and healthy. I'm sure I speak for all of your subscribers that we are SOOOO looking forward to your return
Have a great summer!
Dana, it's perfectly great that you want to take a summer break and spend time with your family!!! We'll be here when you get back! Have a great summer!!!!!!!!!!
Have a wonderful summer!
Enjoy your break!
Needed this! I have several unfinished things I need to get to and just get to feeling defeated. I'm caring for an aging parent one mle away, trying to keep up with that household and running out of energy when I'm finally in my own home. Minor items. Not out of control, just unfinished things...I simply need to get them done. Pick one, and just do it. Enjoy your summer!!!
Last night I was overwhelmed with my house' I heard your voice,, 'Just do the dishes' Awexome Thanks Nony Dana
Enjoy your Summer Dana! Sharing this video with my daughters maybe it'll help them enjoy their summer more. God bless.
Enjoy your time with your family. We'll be here on your return.💗🙋♀️🇦🇺
Oooh yes ! Take the summer off, Dana ! Rejuvenate yourself & prevent burn out. Pacing yourself for the WIN ! I love this !! Thanks for another great video ! Hugs from Buffalo NY , Liz
Have a great break. It’s well deserved!!
Thank you. So timely for me, right now. Praying for you and Knowing God has you in His hands.
Can I just say, it is so powerful for you to set your strong summer boundary. I really think youtube (and actually all of us) could do with more of it.