What stage of decluttering are you at? 👏🏼😍 Just beginning, getting faster every time we go round, death cleaning like me? ⭐ The list of Decluttering Stages and Questions is here!
Greetings Diane. I'm not sure what stage of dcluttering and simplifyng my home and life i'm at to be honest as i keep peeling off the layers after downsizing/ empty nesting . All i do know is your videos and support over the last few weeks have got me moving like never before towards where i want to be. Thank you from my heart for your cheerfullness and inspiration.
@@tinabarras6248 Good for you, Tina! the main thing is just to keep putting one foot in front of the other. We discover new joys of decluttering all the time!
Hello Diane... you are like a cheerleader for me! I am in basic downsizing too. We do not have any children, so death-cleaning is definitely in the mix of our decluttering/sorting out of things.
@@tinabarras6248 same here Tina, just keep doing it gradually, doesn't matter how long or short it takes, less stressful if you don't put pressure on yourself. 💖
Thank you so much for acknowledging the fact that not everybody has or will have children/grandchildren. So many people assume and it can be a painful topic.
Hello Diane, I follow you since 2017. I'am 58 years old . We are empty nesters, our children are 10 years older then yours. My Mom died in January and we moved in April, from a Bungalow with 110 sqm and 2000 sqm garden to an Appartement with 80 sqm. Your videos helped a lot. It is really freeing without a lot of stuff. I don't miss anything and I'am still decluttering. The longer I do the easier it gets. 🤗thank you
Hi Diane! My husband and I are moving from a near 4,000 sq. ft. home and downsizing to 976 sq ft.- It is a hard task to got through everything, but so gratifying! :)
Diane, you are really in the zone with decluttering! You made so many good points, but what stuck with me was not to hang on to things for "someday" but to pass things on to someone who can use them now. I finally convinced my hubby to part with a 20' inflatable Christmas reindeer stable this year. We don't have enough room to display where we are living now, but we have been hanging on to it for at least 4 years now "just in case" we move somewhere that has a larger yard. I listed it online and sold it within hours for double the amount my husband thought someone would pay for it. The woman who bought it was so excited and has a large area to display it - so win win for her and for us! I have to say that watching your videos has really motivated me to get rid of just 1 item as often as I can.
Nice reminder about grandkids. We have one son and know several young adults who don't plan on having children. We've kept several things in anticipation for grands. A bassinet, toys, and books. Our daughter is expecting in the spring. We have just bought a new bassinet because the old one is musty and the new models come with storage and a changing table. I wish we wouldve passed it along when it was in better shape. The toys and books we moved from house to house and ended up decluttering all but our most beloved and things our current grands play with. I found out I have no idea what I'll use in the distant future, so now we let things go. We've decluttered every room except for our guest room and garage!! You've provided the motivation to do it in small sessions, and it made all the difference. Every little space decluttered was motivation to do more. In three months, our home has become organized, beautiful, and clean. We'll tackle the remaining spaces in the new year. Thank you! ❤
❤ It must’ve been sad not to use the bassinet you saved, but trends and standards change, safety requirements too. Many older toys and baby equipment isn’t as safe as it could be. And for many new mothers they both want to have the very best/safest they can and there’s a lot of pleasure in choosing something just right. As you said, better to pass it along while it’s in good shape.
Regarding the kids and grandkids questions, my approach is to take the comments in stride. The people asking aren't being unkind. When someone mentions it or if someone were to mention it, I say, "Oh, I'd rather someone else enjoy it now." You don't have to explain, and the subject always changes with no hurt feelings on either side. I'd rather no one ever feel like they have to walk on eggshells around me. Speak politely, and feel free to speak. That's my rule.
You are an inspiration Diane✨. I started decluttering fifteen years ago when my eldest two children were 0 and 1 years old. A recent move to a bigger home made me declutter even more and I have bought almost no new storage items, even though this house lacks the built in storage of our previous home. It feels so good to not be burdened by stuff 😊 When I look at my parents house, 170 sq. m2 stuffed to the rafters with unused stuff, I know I never want to leave something like that behind for my children. You are very wise to just keep the good stuff and move to a smaller place to enjoy city life even more 😊
I have a gift drawer where I have collected cute items while shopping with no intended person in mind to give them to. I decided this Christmas that I will either gift it to someone this Christmas or donate them to a charity shop. No more storing of items that may not be what I have in mind to gift at Christmas. And a drawer that can be used for something more worthwhile.
Thank you for mentioning saving for grandkids. That's where I am right now. Decluttering of the things saved from our four kids. Combined with not able to and not able to adopt, our family is each grieving in our own way. Thankfully, before mom was in hospice, my brother and I were able to clear out her four bedroom home in a few weeks from all we learned from you and Dawn the Minimal Mom.
I’ve been working on decluttering for 6 years now! I get one layer done, live with it for awhile then I realize I can declutter more! The current layer is decluttering my personal things. What is really important to me personally. When I pass away, I want my kids to know what mattered. They won’t have tons to work through. I have started a notebook with my favorite quotes, poems, songs, Bible verses etc so it’s in one spot. I’m really seeing the distinction between household things (like dishes and furniture) and my personal things. I love this process. It’s very meaningful! My family and I have benefited greatly from this process and doing it a little at a time is so good. It keeps the overwhelm away! Thanks Diane!! It’s Thanksgiving Day here in the US. Hope everyone has a great day wherever you are in the world! 😊
Thanks for your post. I am at the beginning of this journey but the thought of death has been crossing my mind also. Ni have a severely autistic son so I want to leave him all the special memories and make sure the items dear to me aren't thrown in the bin when I go!! Hopefully I have many years ahead to plan this though. 😅
Hi Diane! I just turned 67 and I’m in the Swedish Death Cleaning mode. Like you, I am trying to mindfully downsize and find “good homes” for special items. I combine this with giving boxes of random items and unwanted furniture to Habitat for Humanity, and selling things like fine jewelry. This works for me because we are 31 years in this home, but no immediate plans to move. If/when that time comes, I won’t have the luxury of being so “precious” with dealing with any excess. I am motivated after watching this video to work on another box of nicer, random items to sell at the secondhand shop. I just walk room to room and wrap things up 🙃.
A couple of years of the joy of watching your videos!! And I am Loving this new adventure of yours. Inspiring!!! I'm excited for you to find your new home when it is time and I am grateful that you are sharing the process for continual inspiration. I also Adore your bright color palette. That is me too. 😊
The hubs reminded me that there is a box of my father’s things in storage at his shop. This will be my long weekend project. It’s been two years since he passed and it’s time to go thru it and see what can go.
I’m finding toys my kids never play with. Get them out! Another family will gladly take these toys while we make room for new holiday gifts. Feels so good to work along with you
Love your accent, I'm in the states. We have been helping our parents settle in assisted living, looking at all the stuff is a lesson for us kids to start de cluttering now.
Hi Diane. Thanks for all the videos, your approach is wonderful. After 4 years of watching on and off I actually had a shiny sink last night before bed for the first time in my life! Baby steps, one day at a time. My inner child loves this bit of structure. Bless you from the bottom of my heart ❤❤❤
We keep a goodwill box available and add things almost everyday. It is just automatic now. We are also very mindful with this holiday gifting. I making all my Christmas cards from scrap materials in my art room . It has also upped my creativity doing this project.
I've been decluttering for years but there's always more to do. Sometimes there are things that you just can't face letting go of. I have slowly been collecting all the stuffed animals into one room and perhaps one day I will be ready to let them go. There's no urgency and I am giving myself permission to keep them for now.
I started a 10 minute pupa and kept going when the alarm went off. In another 30 minutes I gad reclaimed our den and feel SO much better about how it looks. For me getting atarted is the hard part but it's always worth the effort 🙂👍🙂
I am at the letting go/moving forward/death cleaning stage ready for downsizing. Lots of old sentimental stuff is finally going (including a job reference for my Dad which was dated in 1959!)
This is my first time commenting, but I’m a long time watcher of your very motivating videos. We’ve downsized many times and I’m now into death cleaning. When I come across something belonging to one of my kids, I send a picture. That way I know immediately if I need to save or discard the item. Thanks for all your great advice, tips, encouragement and enthusiasm.
I had a sleepless night with my brain whirring. It was so nice to see you when I grabbed my tablet in the early morning. You are therapy for the soul.❤
I’m two years in to a big Swedish Death Cleaning Declutter. Slow going but still going! I have two lingering piles that I want/need to address. Taking a look right now! Thank you for the ongoing inspo & support.🕊✨
I’m happy to say that I am thru decluttering the entire house, garage & attic . Did the Swedish Death Cleaning. We are 78. Our home is exactly the right size for us so we are staying put (I hope). Love your videos ❤️🎄
I'm in the early stages of death cleaning. I have made quite a bit of decluttering progress over the past year or so, but still have more work to do. You're always very motivating and helpful! Way to go with your own death cleaning! ❤️🧹📦
Woo hoo! This was another very inspiring declutter. I am raising my hand to say that I've been here for a long time and I have watched your decluttering journey and I've seen how things have really changed for you. I am still in the middle of my decluttering journey - I've been decluttering for years - but I am now down to mostly sentimental items so I am taking things very slowly. You inspired me to let go of some sentimental items recently and it felt good to let them go. Hopefully someone else will love them as I used to. That said, I did a quick declutter of my makeup items and a few pieces of clothing, letting go of a few things that I was not going to use, and that felt really good, too. ❤
Your videos always seem to just hit the spot! I’m having a big decluttering day, and you’ve given me just the lift I needed to put down my coffee cup and get to it!
We are planning on moving to a tiny home or RV after my hubby retires so we are decluttering as well. I am on my last remnants of sentimental items. They are the toughest. I did give my grandparents rocking chair to Habitat for Humanity (charity). That made it a lot easier to let it go.
Thank you for your inspiration every week. I try to find something to declutter and it’s amazing that you can’t find something to declutter every week. We just buy too much stuff here in America. Thank you. You really bring me joy. I hope you have a wonderful holiday with your family.❤
That’s sooooo weird! We found a caricature poster of me from about 25yrs ago in the Christmas wrapping paper (of course, where else?) last week! I’ve finally made a start decluttering my IMMENSE pile of paperwork today, listening to this video as I work my way through. I could really use your advice, a link to a past video, anything, please Diane! I have travel (documents & souvenirs), health, car, banking, pension, teaching resources, payslips, other work paperwork, leisure reading, student work, my own studies (academic & professional), miscellaneous, manuals, puzzles, books (fiction, poetry, non-fiction), …. Enough to fill a house easily, but it all needs to stay in my bedroom. I have unopened post from early last year & several long-expired vouchers. I’ve made a good start today with 3 trips to the recycling bin & 2 piles of shredding but now I have 10 small piles of paperwork to clear off my bed before I can get into it tonight. So disappointed in myself for letting it get this bad: there’s just so much of it I feel like I’ve lost myself in the past 7 years or so.
@@GCBookworm I agree with John Angel!! You need to pat yourself on the back and tell yourself job well done! 3 trips to the recycling and 2 piles of paper reviewed for shredding is awesome!! Make a tea or get yourself a cold drink and park yourself to do the shredding for a bit. If you’ve reviewed the items for shredding it’s kind of a mindless task. Put a post it note labeling the top of each of your ten piles and set them aside till you’re ready for your 15 min declutter tomorrow.
I cleared the top bookshelf and brought some of the books to the library for their annual sale. I donated some books to a thrift shop, and some books had to be thrown away because of poor condition. I have been decluttering for two years. I have a neat and tidy home, but every closet, dresser, and storage area was full. I gave my daughter in law a silver plated flower basket that had been stored on that top shelf of the book shelf. I had not even seen that item for years! I told her that she was free to do whatever she wanted with that piece. It is so nice to have less stuff!
I have been decluttering for about two years now. My plan is to stay in my large house as I love the area and I have remodeled everything to just how I like it. However, it is nice to not have every nook and cranny filled with stuff. So much easier to clean and maintain. I have been doing a modified Fly Lady routine and am loving it. Thank you for inspiring me to continue decluttering and finding more joy in being with friends and letting go of the things that have been holding me back.
🎉Following you since 2018ish. Thank you all the encouragement thru these years. Emptynesters now and soon to retire- continually declutter/ downsizing. Keep on encouraging, rah-rah-rah❤❤❤!!!
Made me think about cushions and cushion covers that were in a chest on the landing. They can go to the recycling centre. I’ve put two fleecy throws into the washing machine this morning. I have a little metal step in my studio and it means I can reach to change the light bulbs, the ceiling is quite low. I have a box in the hall that friends are collecting when they visit next week - all sorts of studio things 😊 Thank you for your lovely motivation
Hubby and I went through some VHS tapes yesterday! 😮 He kept a few faves but the rest are going to one of the only video rental stores left in our area. They either rent them out or sell them. We’re still doing the packing-without-moving for our carpet replacement and I’m sure that there will be more stuff going when we start putting things back in their rightful places. I can’t wait for this project to be finished because I don’t like the chaos that goes with it. 😵💫🇨🇦
In the spring and fall I seem to have motivation to declutter. Right now I am concentrating on preparing for a houseful of guests for a week at Christmas. Your early prep has helped me get going. However yesterday I took a big box into the charity shop and some china to donate to a heritage home gift shop. Now I am at the point if I dont use it, it can go. For many years I was keeping too much just in case.
Empty nester for over 20 years now. So I am death cleaning for sure! I just washed down my walls yesterday in my dining room and it felt great NOT having to move so much stuff around.
Those collections like the badges are tricky - it’s hard to see if they’re all equally special, or if they’re only special if all are kept. Or maybe just a couple can represent the whole. It’s the kind of thing I’d take a photo of to add to a scrapbook of memories and then maybe only keep a few, but I’ll be interested to see how you handle that. Also thanks for sharing the reminder that not everyone will have grandkids. Holding on for kids who will never be born can cause a lot of extra grief for people.
With collections, I find the easiest method is to "treasure hunt". Rescue your favourites first, then (with the rest) say "can I live without these?" You may keep an extra couple, but more will usually go this way, than if you just say "what can go?" from the start.
I've been decluttering about 18 months. Kids are grown and have their own lives. My new focus is to downsize possessions so we can downsize to new smaller home. You are amazing, Diane 🎉🎉🎉 and a terrific inspiration to continue whittling away at things I don't need or don't use.
Well done, Diane! Here in America, it's the night before Thanksgiving, and while watching you declutter, I'm in the kitchen making my stuffing (to go into the turkey) for tomorrow. Then I'll wash dishes and go to bed. God bless you!
I’m in stage 2 of decluttering and continue to declutter daily. Your videos have been instrumental in making daily decluttering a habit . I have a few more years before my husband and I are empty nester’s and ready to downsize, but, I will definitely be rewatching this series for inspiration 😊
I’ve been decluttering for more than ten years. And though I still have a house full of furniture and decor, I’m definitely death cleaning. My father, who was a hoarder, passed over the summer. I retained only a small number of sentimental items but it’s motivated me to make sure I only have things in my house that are truly wanted or needed. We’re not down sizing yet, but if someone had to clear out my house tomorrow it would be a reasonable task!
I am cooking for US Thanksgiving tomorrow while watching. Yesterday I was getting ready for my family and I had to move so much stuff that I still have left....it will be going! I want a simple life so I can get to the fun activities with less stress. Sending a big grateful thanks to you!!
Today I'm having family over for our Thanksgiving meal. If I don't use any serving dishes, specialty utensils and platters for this occasion, I'll declutter them. Also, it's probably time to declutter my turkey roasting pan. The last 2 years I've ordered a pre-cooked turkey.
@ it took about a year after the youngest was out of the house before I got used to the quiet. Then I got tinnitus, so now the cicada noise keeps me company ☹️. But yes, I do enjoy having the kiddos grown, and added bonus that they all seem to be functional adults. 😁 The youngest is a world traveler and pauses his travels at home here for several weeks a few times a year. Which I totally enjoy.
I've been following you for years and enjoying your videos more than ever! I've just turned 60 but still have both my boys at home for now, so decluttering is hard, but I am trying to lead by example. DVDs are the next to go.
It's SO much fun watching you downsize for your next big adventure! Your decluttering videos are some of my absolute favourite on RUclips. I'm currently over the finish line with decluttering for this season of life and only do maintenance decluttering. With a three year old and a ten year old I surely have seasons ahead of me that'll have me decluttering again, but for now we're very happy with our minimalistic home. If anything we'll be upsizing next, from our 700 sqf apartment to a house that'll need some furniture. Won't be for another year or two, though. Love from Västkusten!
You look amazing in your sparkly outfit! 😍✨ I love how you are keeping your best and letting the rest go. Your videos are really helping me especially at the moment. I have been watching them for years and you are always inspiring and a ray of sunshine. We are having to leave our home due to health and financial reasons and it is hard at times. We have four children 7-13 and I have to keep reminding myself that they are my treasures ( and my lovely husband!) not the bricks and mortar. Thanks for your help ❤
Dishes are done and kitchen is tieded up during this video :) I think I am in between stage 1 and 2 in decluttering. Still have quite a lot of stuff, but getting more accustomed to letting go :)
❤🎉 we moved two years ago which kick started the decluttering. But not all family members are ready for it and we keep stuff not used like certain board games for over 20 years.
Hi Diane! Today I’ve declutterred a much loved basket that I kept detergent and laundry stuff in. I’ve carried the basket from my flat to the laundry room in the basement for many years. Last week it all cracked. Time to let it go 😋. Love from Helena in Sweden ♥️
I've been packing up vintage items/antiques to take to a New Years Day Auction. I have a space of about 6 x 8 feet stacked up to the ceiling to get rid of. Hopefully I''ll make a few dollars too. The Onsie is funny. My 20 year old grandson and his friends wear them. So funny.
After cleaning an estate and moving, I am in the Swedish Death Cleaning part of my life because I love my things too much to have them end up in a dumpster. From your video, I am reminded of a blankets I need to donate to a homeless shelter and an animal shelter. Our Goodwill participates in a textile recycling program.
The badge board: I saw a photo of badges pinned to the sides of a fabric chair and it looked really good in his library. A man had every guest create messages for him on a badge for his 50th birthday using a badge maker at his party.Maybe this would save some space so you could let go of the board? What about tying the lanyards into bows and creating a wreath?
Should be death cleaning but looking to downsize. I need to get at it. Been in a funk and ready to get serious. Always appreciate your cheerful and nonjudgmental prodding!
You looked so glamorous in your sparkley outfit, so festive. My DD is type 2 in DYT and I am type 4 so she gave me all her black items. One of the items was a black fluffy sweater with sparkley buttons (really cute) and I wore it to my cousin's anniversary party last week. As we were sitting there my DH looked at me and said hmm that's different and I said Dd gave it to me, do you like it and he said it looks like you are wearing a dead animal (lol). I was talking to DD the next day on the phone and we had quite a chuckle about his comment.😂
She has just completed the Beaujolais half-marathon in France where they were served steak and wine en route and there was even a rave party in a tent! Crazy half-marathon fun! Much more interesting than just running as fast as you can 😂😂
I would research the buttons and poster value!!! I think as a collection it might be worth a lot more than you think!!! I winced when you took the poster out of the frame!! 🤔🤷
Thanks to your inspiration I was able to give away an old digital camera that I haven’t been using after I upgraded. Someone in my buy nothing group asked for one and it will hopefully now get some use again. It wasn’t easy, but I did it and feel good!
We will be moving and downsizing into a condo in Florida, which we already own. However we are staying put as long as my 92 year old mom is still here. We are slowly starting to think about downsizing. So far we have gotten rid of one Christmas tree and going through the ornaments today. Went through some Tupperware the other day and eliminated all pieces that did not have a fitting lid. For Christmas, I am giving my great niece, who is 6, my Dad’s childhood desk, which I also used. This is real hard to give away. My Mom and I talked it over and decided, it will still be in the family and she could use it now, not 20 years from now. Still hard.
I am as usual , l loving your day to day, and happy about of it. I have so much to do much of the same. Getting rid of stuff!! Last month we took some stuff to the Salvation Army resale shop. Every monday for a month.. wow! I am thrilled! Gd more to come!
So inspiring and a little scary to think how much we will have to declutter if we’ll really downsize in a few years… 😮 But I do hope you’ll still be cheering me on then 😉❤
What stage of decluttering are you at? 👏🏼😍 Just beginning, getting faster every time we go round, death cleaning like me? ⭐ The list of Decluttering Stages and Questions is here!
Greetings Diane. I'm not sure what stage of dcluttering and simplifyng my home and life i'm at to be honest as i keep peeling off the layers after downsizing/ empty nesting .
All i do know is your videos and support over the last few weeks have
got me moving like never before towards where i want to be. Thank you from my heart for your cheerfullness and inspiration.
@@tinabarras6248 Good for you, Tina! the main thing is just to keep putting one foot in front of the other. We discover new joys of decluttering all the time!
Hello Diane... you are like a cheerleader for me! I am in basic downsizing too. We do not have any children, so death-cleaning is definitely in the mix of our decluttering/sorting out of things.
@@tinabarras6248 same here Tina, just keep doing it gradually, doesn't matter how long or short it takes, less stressful if you don't put pressure on yourself. 💖
I‘m on a good way….also death cleaning for downsizing. Greetings from cologne Andy
Thank you so much for acknowledging the fact that not everybody has or will have children/grandchildren. So many people assume and it can be a painful topic.
I'm on the other side of death cleaning, downsized, and on declutter-maintenance. I'm freeeeeeeeeeeeee
❤❤❤
An inspiration, Denise! Rah, rah, rah!
Hello Diane, I follow you since 2017. I'am 58 years old . We are empty nesters, our children are 10 years older then yours. My Mom died in January and we moved in April, from a Bungalow with 110 sqm and 2000 sqm garden to an Appartement with 80 sqm. Your videos helped a lot. It is really freeing without a lot of stuff. I don't miss anything and I'am still decluttering. The longer I do the easier it gets. 🤗thank you
Hi Diane! My husband and I are moving from a near 4,000 sq. ft. home and downsizing to 976 sq ft.- It is a hard task to got through everything, but so gratifying! :)
Diane, you are really in the zone with decluttering! You made so many good points, but what stuck with me was not to hang on to things for "someday" but to pass things on to someone who can use them now. I finally convinced my hubby to part with a 20' inflatable Christmas reindeer stable this year. We don't have enough room to display where we are living now, but we have been hanging on to it for at least 4 years now "just in case" we move somewhere that has a larger yard. I listed it online and sold it within hours for double the amount my husband thought someone would pay for it. The woman who bought it was so excited and has a large area to display it - so win win for her and for us! I have to say that watching your videos has really motivated me to get rid of just 1 item as often as I can.
That is wonderful, Ruthe! Go you and go hubby!
Nice reminder about grandkids.
We have one son and know several young adults who don't plan on having children.
We've kept several things in anticipation for grands. A bassinet, toys, and books. Our daughter is expecting in the spring. We have just bought a new bassinet because the old one is musty and the new models come with storage and a changing table.
I wish we wouldve passed it along when it was in better shape. The toys and books we moved from house to house and ended up decluttering all but our most beloved and things our current grands play with. I found out I have no idea what I'll use in the distant future, so now we let things go.
We've decluttered every room except for our guest room and garage!! You've provided the motivation to do it in small sessions, and it made all the difference. Every little space decluttered was motivation to do more. In three months, our home has become organized, beautiful, and clean. We'll tackle the remaining spaces in the new year. Thank you! ❤
❤ It must’ve been sad not to use the bassinet you saved, but trends and standards change, safety requirements too. Many older toys and baby equipment isn’t as safe as it could be. And for many new mothers they both want to have the very best/safest they can and there’s a lot of pleasure in choosing something just right. As you said, better to pass it along while it’s in good shape.
I have small baby at home. Today I decluttered some clothes that I have been hanging on to, fantasy life clothes etc 😆 I feel so much better! 🎉🎉🎉
I agree with you, keep decluttering layer by layer so that there is continuous progress without getting overwhelmed and have decision fatigue!
Regarding the kids and grandkids questions, my approach is to take the comments in stride. The people asking aren't being unkind. When someone mentions it or if someone were to mention it, I say, "Oh, I'd rather someone else enjoy it now." You don't have to explain, and the subject always changes with no hurt feelings on either side. I'd rather no one ever feel like they have to walk on eggshells around me. Speak politely, and feel free to speak. That's my rule.
You are an inspiration Diane✨.
I started decluttering fifteen years ago when my eldest two children were 0 and 1 years old. A recent move to a bigger home made me declutter even more and I have bought almost no new storage items, even though this house lacks the built in storage of our previous home.
It feels so good to not be burdened by stuff 😊 When I look at my parents house, 170 sq. m2 stuffed to the rafters with unused stuff, I know I never want to leave something like that behind for my children.
You are very wise to just keep the good stuff and move to a smaller place to enjoy city life even more 😊
Well done for not adding more clutter! And, yes, totally agree...I feel quite deflated when I see piles of "stuff" these days!
I have a gift drawer where I have collected cute items while shopping with no intended person in mind to give them to. I decided this Christmas that I will either gift it to someone this Christmas or donate them to a charity shop. No more storing of items that may not be what I have in mind to gift at Christmas. And a drawer that can be used for something more worthwhile.
Thank you for mentioning saving for grandkids. That's where I am right now. Decluttering of the things saved from our four kids. Combined with not able to and not able to adopt, our family is each grieving in our own way. Thankfully, before mom was in hospice, my brother and I were able to clear out her four bedroom home in a few weeks from all we learned from you and Dawn the Minimal Mom.
I am looking forward to following your journey to your future appartment
I’ve been working on decluttering for 6 years now! I get one layer done, live with it for awhile then I realize I can declutter more! The current layer is decluttering my personal things. What is really important to me personally. When I pass away, I want my kids to know what mattered. They won’t have tons to work through. I have started a notebook with my favorite quotes, poems, songs, Bible verses etc so it’s in one spot. I’m really seeing the distinction between household things (like dishes and furniture) and my personal things. I love this process. It’s very meaningful! My family and I have benefited greatly from this process and doing it a little at a time is so good. It keeps the overwhelm away! Thanks Diane!! It’s Thanksgiving Day here in the US. Hope everyone has a great day wherever you are in the world! 😊
Thanks for your post. I am at the beginning of this journey but the thought of death has been crossing my mind also. Ni have a severely autistic son so I want to leave him all the special memories and make sure the items dear to me aren't thrown in the bin when I go!! Hopefully I have many years ahead to plan this though. 😅
Hi Diane! I just turned 67 and I’m in the Swedish Death Cleaning mode. Like you, I am trying to mindfully downsize and find “good homes” for special items. I combine this with giving boxes of random items and unwanted furniture to Habitat for Humanity, and selling things like fine jewelry. This works for me because we are 31 years in this home, but no immediate plans to move. If/when that time comes, I won’t have the luxury of being so “precious” with dealing with any excess. I am motivated after watching this video to work on another box of nicer, random items to sell at the secondhand shop. I just walk room to room and wrap things up 🙃.
A couple of years of the joy of watching your videos!! And I am Loving this new adventure of yours. Inspiring!!! I'm excited for you to find your new home when it is time and I am grateful that you are sharing the process for continual inspiration. I also Adore your bright color palette. That is me too. 😊
The hubs reminded me that there is a box of my father’s things in storage at his shop. This will be my long weekend project. It’s been two years since he passed and it’s time to go thru it and see what can go.
Even though I am not a big shopper or collector of things, I can always find something to declutter, and it always feels good!
I’m finding toys my kids never play with. Get them out! Another family will gladly take these toys while we make room for new holiday gifts. Feels so good to work along with you
Love your accent, I'm in the states. We have been helping our parents settle in assisted living, looking at all the stuff is a lesson for us kids to start de cluttering now.
I hope you realise how much you help improve and motivate others to make a better life for themselves. You are a real gem!
You’re such a big inspiration to all of us
Hi Diane. Thanks for all the videos, your approach is wonderful. After 4 years of watching on and off I actually had a shiny sink last night before bed for the first time in my life! Baby steps, one day at a time. My inner child loves this bit of structure. Bless you from the bottom of my heart ❤❤❤
We keep a goodwill box available and add things almost everyday. It is just automatic now. We are also very mindful with this holiday gifting. I making all my Christmas cards from scrap materials in my art room . It has also upped my creativity doing this project.
I've been decluttering for years but there's always more to do. Sometimes there are things that you just can't face letting go of. I have slowly been collecting all the stuffed animals into one room and perhaps one day I will be ready to let them go. There's no urgency and I am giving myself permission to keep them for now.
I started a 10 minute pupa and kept going when the alarm went off. In another 30 minutes I gad reclaimed our den and feel SO much better about how it looks. For me getting atarted is the hard part but it's always worth the effort 🙂👍🙂
I am at the letting go/moving forward/death cleaning stage ready for downsizing. Lots of old sentimental stuff is finally going (including a job reference for my Dad which was dated in 1959!)
We just moved into our first house. It is huge so i appreciate your decluttering and zone motivation. It helps me keep from acquiring too many things!
This is my first time commenting, but I’m a long time watcher of your very motivating videos. We’ve downsized many times and I’m now into death cleaning. When I come across something belonging to one of my kids, I send a picture. That way I know immediately if I need to save or discard the item. Thanks for all your great advice, tips, encouragement and enthusiasm.
Thank you Diane! As always, your positivity is inspiring.
I had a sleepless night with my brain whirring. It was so nice to see you when I grabbed my tablet in the early morning. You are therapy for the soul.❤
I’m two years in to a big Swedish Death Cleaning Declutter. Slow going but still going! I have two lingering piles that I want/need to address. Taking a look right now! Thank you for the ongoing inspo & support.🕊✨
That's wonderful, Heather! Rah, rah, rah!
I’m happy to say that I am thru decluttering the entire house, garage & attic . Did the Swedish Death Cleaning. We are 78. Our home is exactly the right size for us so we are staying put (I hope). Love your videos ❤️🎄
I'm in the early stages of death cleaning. I have made quite a bit of decluttering progress over the past year or so, but still have more work to do. You're always very motivating and helpful! Way to go with your own death cleaning! ❤️🧹📦
Been decluttering for the last three years. I'm really so much happier 💓 🎉😊❤
I love your fibrant energie. Very inspired, thank you
Woo hoo! This was another very inspiring declutter. I am raising my hand to say that I've been here for a long time and I have watched your decluttering journey and I've seen how things have really changed for you. I am still in the middle of my decluttering journey - I've been decluttering for years - but I am now down to mostly sentimental items so I am taking things very slowly. You inspired me to let go of some sentimental items recently and it felt good to let them go. Hopefully someone else will love them as I used to. That said, I did a quick declutter of my makeup items and a few pieces of clothing, letting go of a few things that I was not going to use, and that felt really good, too. ❤
Your videos always seem to just hit the spot! I’m having a big decluttering day, and you’ve given me just the lift I needed to put down my coffee cup and get to it!
You are doing such a great job, with a smile, and you are a major motivation!! ❤
We are planning on moving to a tiny home or RV after my hubby retires so we are decluttering as well. I am on my last remnants of sentimental items. They are the toughest. I did give my grandparents rocking chair to Habitat for Humanity (charity). That made it a lot easier to let it go.
So enjoying this group of videos .
Hi, Diane! I have been on this journey with you for years now, and decluttering gets easier and easier.🦋🦋🦋
As they say, “slow and steady wins the race”- it definitely wins the declutterring race! Thank you for cheering me on since 2017 🥰
Thank you for your inspiration every week. I try to find something to declutter and it’s amazing that you can’t find something to declutter every week. We just buy too much stuff here in America. Thank you. You really bring me joy. I hope you have a wonderful holiday with your family.❤
That’s sooooo weird! We found a caricature poster of me from about 25yrs ago in the Christmas wrapping paper (of course, where else?) last week! I’ve finally made a start decluttering my IMMENSE pile of paperwork today, listening to this video as I work my way through. I could really use your advice, a link to a past video, anything, please Diane! I have travel (documents & souvenirs), health, car, banking, pension, teaching resources, payslips, other work paperwork, leisure reading, student work, my own studies (academic & professional), miscellaneous, manuals, puzzles, books (fiction, poetry, non-fiction), …. Enough to fill a house easily, but it all needs to stay in my bedroom. I have unopened post from early last year & several long-expired vouchers. I’ve made a good start today with 3 trips to the recycling bin & 2 piles of shredding but now I have 10 small piles of paperwork to clear off my bed before I can get into it tonight. So disappointed in myself for letting it get this bad: there’s just so much of it I feel like I’ve lost myself in the past 7 years or so.
It sounds like you need to pat yourself on the back, for now you are able to make the effort. A lttle better is still better. Good for you.
Situations like this, I remember Gretchen Rubin's quote: "We've all done it." Give yourself grace, and a pat on the back for tackling it now 👏
@@GCBookworm I agree with John Angel!! You need to pat yourself on the back and tell yourself job well done! 3 trips to the recycling and 2 piles of paper reviewed for shredding is awesome!!
Make a tea or get yourself a cold drink and park yourself to do the shredding for a bit. If you’ve reviewed the items for shredding it’s kind of a mindless task.
Put a post it note labeling the top of each of your ten piles and set them aside till you’re ready for your 15 min declutter tomorrow.
@@johnangel7768 Thank you so much.
@@HannahRainbow88 Thank you. I’d never heard about that quote before except as a general “old adage” type thing. Good to know a source for it.
I cleared the top bookshelf and brought some of the books to the library for their annual sale. I donated some books to a thrift shop, and some books had to be thrown away because of poor condition. I have been decluttering for two years. I have a neat and tidy home, but every closet, dresser, and storage area was full. I gave my daughter in law a silver plated flower basket that had been stored on that top shelf of the book shelf. I had not even seen that item for years! I told her that she was free to do whatever she wanted with that piece. It is so nice to have less stuff!
I have been decluttering for about two years now. My plan is to stay in my large house as I love the area and I have remodeled everything to just how I like it. However, it is nice to not have every nook and cranny filled with stuff. So much easier to clean and maintain. I have been doing a modified Fly Lady routine and am loving it. Thank you for inspiring me to continue decluttering and finding more joy in being with friends and letting go of the things that have been holding me back.
Good for you! Such progress!!
Another encouraging and inspiring video from my favourite RUclipsr!!!! ❤
Thank you Diane, continually decluttering even if it's just one item as you say. Always inspiring and encouraging as usual, thank you. 🎉🎉🎉
Exactly, Susan - all those single items add up and decluttering consistently makes it a healthy habit! Go you!
I have been decluttering for 2 years and I still have so much, so I will continue.
I love all your videos!! I’ve been here watching since 2017 and you are proof that The Flylady system works!!
🎉Following you since 2018ish. Thank you all the encouragement thru these years. Emptynesters now and soon to retire- continually declutter/ downsizing.
Keep on encouraging, rah-rah-rah❤❤❤!!!
Made me think about cushions and cushion covers that were in a chest on the landing. They can go to the recycling centre. I’ve put two fleecy throws into the washing machine this morning. I have a little metal step in my studio and it means I can reach to change the light bulbs, the ceiling is quite low. I have a box in the hall that friends are collecting when they visit next week - all sorts of studio things 😊 Thank you for your lovely motivation
You're making great progress!
Hubby and I went through some VHS tapes yesterday! 😮 He kept a few faves but the rest are going to one of the only video rental stores left in our area. They either rent them out or sell them. We’re still doing the packing-without-moving for our carpet replacement and I’m sure that there will be more stuff going when we start putting things back in their rightful places. I can’t wait for this project to be finished because I don’t like the chaos that goes with it. 😵💫🇨🇦
In the spring and fall I seem to have motivation to declutter. Right now I am concentrating on preparing for a houseful of guests for a week at Christmas. Your early prep has helped me get going. However yesterday I took a big box into the charity shop and some china to donate to a heritage home gift shop. Now I am at the point if I dont use it, it can go. For many years I was keeping too much just in case.
Empty nester for over 20 years now. So I am death cleaning for sure! I just washed down my walls yesterday in my dining room and it felt great NOT having to move so much stuff around.
Those collections like the badges are tricky - it’s hard to see if they’re all equally special, or if they’re only special if all are kept. Or maybe just a couple can represent the whole. It’s the kind of thing I’d take a photo of to add to a scrapbook of memories and then maybe only keep a few, but I’ll be interested to see how you handle that. Also thanks for sharing the reminder that not everyone will have grandkids. Holding on for kids who will never be born can cause a lot of extra grief for people.
With collections, I find the easiest method is to "treasure hunt". Rescue your favourites first, then (with the rest) say "can I live without these?" You may keep an extra couple, but more will usually go this way, than if you just say "what can go?" from the start.
I've been decluttering about 18 months. Kids are grown and have their own lives. My new focus is to downsize possessions so we can downsize to new smaller home. You are amazing, Diane 🎉🎉🎉 and a terrific inspiration to continue whittling away at things I don't need or don't use.
Well done, Diane! Here in America, it's the night before Thanksgiving, and while watching you declutter, I'm in the kitchen making my stuffing (to go into the turkey) for tomorrow. Then I'll wash dishes and go to bed. God bless you!
Happy Thanksgiving to you, Paula!
I’m in stage 2 of decluttering and continue to declutter daily. Your videos have been instrumental in making daily decluttering a habit . I have a few more years before my husband and I are empty nester’s and ready to downsize, but, I will definitely be rewatching this series for inspiration 😊
Doing the ground work now will stand you in good stead! Well done!
I’ve been decluttering for more than ten years. And though I still have a house full of furniture and decor, I’m definitely death cleaning. My father, who was a hoarder, passed over the summer. I retained only a small number of sentimental items but it’s motivated me to make sure I only have things in my house that are truly wanted or needed. We’re not down sizing yet, but if someone had to clear out my house tomorrow it would be a reasonable task!
I am cooking for US Thanksgiving tomorrow while watching. Yesterday I was getting ready for my family and I had to move so much stuff that I still have left....it will be going! I want a simple life so I can get to the fun activities with less stress. Sending a big grateful thanks to you!!
Today I'm having family over for our Thanksgiving meal. If I don't use any serving dishes, specialty utensils and platters for this occasion, I'll declutter them. Also, it's probably time to declutter my turkey roasting pan. The last 2 years I've ordered a pre-cooked turkey.
A pre cooked turkey !? Tell me more ! Sounds awesome .
@laurawood4476 I get the whole dinner from Whole Foods. But a lot of stores do that kind of thing.
❤️ empty nester here.
In a slow declutter maintenance mode.
Go you, Ruth! Are you enjoying being an Empty Nester? Hubby and I love our quiet days, though it's always nice to meet up with our kids!
@ it took about a year after the youngest was out of the house before I got used to the quiet. Then I got tinnitus, so now the cicada noise keeps me company ☹️. But yes, I do enjoy having the kiddos grown, and added bonus that they all seem to be functional adults. 😁
The youngest is a world traveler and pauses his travels at home here for several weeks a few times a year. Which I totally enjoy.
My husband and I are downsizing to move into a smaller home so your videos have been really helpful and inspirational. Thank you!!
I've been following you for years and enjoying your videos more than ever! I've just turned 60 but still have both my boys at home for now, so decluttering is hard, but I am trying to lead by example. DVDs are the next to go.
It's SO much fun watching you downsize for your next big adventure! Your decluttering videos are some of my absolute favourite on RUclips. I'm currently over the finish line with decluttering for this season of life and only do maintenance decluttering. With a three year old and a ten year old I surely have seasons ahead of me that'll have me decluttering again, but for now we're very happy with our minimalistic home. If anything we'll be upsizing next, from our 700 sqf apartment to a house that'll need some furniture. Won't be for another year or two, though. Love from Västkusten!
I still have young kids but decluttering has helped make housework easier and less stressful 🙌
You look amazing in your sparkly outfit! 😍✨ I love how you are keeping your best and letting the rest go.
Your videos are really helping me especially at the moment. I have been watching them for years and you are always inspiring and a ray of sunshine.
We are having to leave our home due to health and financial reasons and it is hard at times. We have four children 7-13 and I have to keep reminding myself that they are my treasures ( and my lovely husband!) not the bricks and mortar. Thanks for your help ❤
Thanks for all the inspiration! Sorting through our study today ! Hello from sunny Belgium!
I’m at maintenance declutterring stage. Love your videos.
Inspirational video Diane. Thank you.
Dishes are done and kitchen is tieded up during this video :)
I think I am in between stage 1 and 2 in decluttering. Still have quite a lot of stuff, but getting more accustomed to letting go :)
Great to catch up with you Diane. I've decluttered and just enjoying the calmness.
Heady times ahead for you and hubby Diane! 🇨🇦😄
I decluttered last week - a bag of fabric to the sewing supply reuse shop.
❤🎉 we moved two years ago which kick started the decluttering. But not all family members are ready for it and we keep stuff not used like certain board games for over 20 years.
Hi Diane!
Today I’ve declutterred a much loved basket that I kept detergent and laundry stuff in. I’ve carried the basket from my flat to the laundry room in the basement for many years. Last week it all cracked. Time to let it go 😋.
Love from Helena in Sweden ♥️
I've been packing up vintage items/antiques to take to a New Years Day Auction. I have a space of about 6 x 8 feet stacked up to the ceiling to get rid of. Hopefully I''ll make a few dollars too. The Onsie is funny. My 20 year old grandson and his friends wear them. So funny.
After cleaning an estate and moving, I am in the Swedish Death Cleaning part of my life because I love my things too much to have them end up in a dumpster. From your video, I am reminded of a blankets I need to donate to a homeless shelter and an animal shelter. Our Goodwill participates in a textile recycling program.
The badge board: I saw a photo of badges pinned to the sides of a fabric chair and it looked really good in his library. A man had every guest create messages for him on a badge for his 50th birthday using a badge maker at his party.Maybe this would save some space so you could let go of the board? What about tying the lanyards into bows and creating a wreath?
Can't wait to see your new place. Do you already know when you're moving? Your videos are so inspirational! Thank you!
Should be death cleaning but looking to downsize. I need to get at it. Been in a funk and ready to get serious. Always appreciate your cheerful and nonjudgmental prodding!
Such an inspiration, as always 😊
Thank you so much, Sue!
You looked so glamorous in your sparkley outfit, so festive. My DD is type 2 in DYT and I am type 4 so she gave me all her black items. One of the items was a black fluffy sweater with sparkley buttons (really cute) and I wore it to my cousin's anniversary party last week. As we were sitting there my DH looked at me and said hmm that's different and I said Dd gave it to me, do you like it and he said it looks like you are wearing a dead animal (lol). I was talking to DD the next day on the phone and we had quite a chuckle about his comment.😂
THANKYOU ❤ needed some motivation this morning x
Running a half marathon in a dinosaur onesie, does it get any better than that?????😂
She has just completed the Beaujolais half-marathon in France where they were served steak and wine en route and there was even a rave party in a tent! Crazy half-marathon fun! Much more interesting than just running as fast as you can 😂😂
@@DianeinDenmarkthat sounds awesome!!!!!
I would research the buttons and poster value!!! I think as a collection it might be worth a lot more than you think!!! I winced when you took the poster out of the frame!! 🤔🤷
Thank you Diane
God bless you always ❤❤
You are so very welcome, Mary!
You did great getting rid of things. I am decluttering all the time. Especially ho!lay decor.
🖐️ I’m one that’s been around for years and I just noticed how much you cleared out your costume jewelry!
Thanks to your inspiration I was able to give away an old digital camera that I haven’t been using after I upgraded. Someone in my buy nothing group asked for one and it will hopefully now get some use again. It wasn’t easy, but I did it and feel good!
After the Thanksgiving holiday, I’ll be going through a box of Christmas crafts. ❤
We will be moving and downsizing into a condo in Florida, which we already own. However we are staying put as long as my 92 year old mom is still here. We are slowly starting to think about downsizing. So far we have gotten rid of one Christmas tree and going through the ornaments today. Went through some Tupperware the other day and eliminated all pieces that did not have a fitting lid. For Christmas, I am giving my great niece, who is 6, my Dad’s childhood desk, which I also used. This is real hard to give away. My Mom and I talked it over and decided, it will still be in the family and she could use it now, not 20 years from now. Still hard.
I am as usual , l loving your day to day, and happy about of it. I have so much to do much of the same. Getting rid of stuff!! Last month we took some stuff to the Salvation Army resale shop. Every monday for a month.. wow! I am thrilled! Gd more to come!
Brilliant, Cynthia - slow and steady wins the race!
So inspiring and a little scary to think how much we will have to declutter if we’ll really downsize in a few years… 😮
But I do hope you’ll still be cheering me on then 😉❤
❤😊 thank's for your videos