It's challenging but Peter Walsh is speaking the truth. We have not only overwhelmed our homes, we have overwhelmed our planet. Barely anything we believe we are recycling is coming back into our homes as new products. We move stuff from our house to donation centres, recycling hubs, other people's homes, and feel good. But we keep producing and consuming on a global level far beyond what we can use as a species.
As a word of encouragement, I would like to say that I have decluttrred my stuff and I have not replaced it. My goal is minimalism: living with only what you need now. It feels so good to have empty space that I don't want to fill it up with stuff again. People I watch besides Joshua Becker, are Minamial Mom, Dana K White., Clutterbug. I'm not an extreme minimalist and I understand the emotional struggle of letting go of stuff esp sentimental stuff but I'm old enough that stuff has become a burden and I'm ready to let it go.
This is so true. Much that is put in recycling bins unfortunately ends up in landfills. Not buying things is a little thing that makes more of an impact actually. Strangely covid and becoming poor has helped me personally stop this bad habit. I used to love to shop. I found it relaxing. I would intend to only window shop but temptation of a "good deal" would get me. When everything closed during covid it broke the habit for me and because I lost a lot of work that I never recovered even as things opened up I no longer had money for it. I use rags rather that paper towels, I cannot afford bottled water anymore and I have not bought any new clothes just keep wearing same old. I still have so little money I buy very little and have learned to fully use everything that comes into my home. I am also learning to repair my clothes. I'm not great at the repairing holes in sweaters yet but I'm getting there😊
This was a great episode. My mom just passed away. She lived in her home her entire life. I grew up there. Now I have one of the hardest jobs I have ever had & that is cleaning out her house.. my family home & sell it. 😢😢😢😢😢 How am I going to throw her things away? I can’t keep everything. I’m the only child. I don’t know how I’m going to do this but this episode helped me & I thank you both so very, very much!!!🙌🙌👍
I'm sorry for your loss. I had to do this also. When I got overwhelmed I just boxed up the things I hadn't gotten to & brought them home. Went through boxes a few months later.
My husband is an only child with a chronic illness. His mother was an actual hoarder. We started cleaning out her house in 2015 when she went into the nursing home. She died in 2021 and we are still hauling stuff out of the house. I will say that it gets easier to let things go. Oftentimes they have deteriorated with time. Also, you just get sick and tired of dealing with it snd you load up the car or trash can with it. She has land so we burn much of it in cathartic bonfires. Keep only the things you have room for in your home that you can display or use that really remind you of her. The rest really does have to go and it will be okay. I promise. 🙏🏻💕
I told myself that my mom got enjoyment from her things and her artistic projects. That's what counted. I found homes for certain items where I knew they would be appreciated. Art supplies to an autistic boy that only communicated through art. Towels to the humane society. Books to hospital waiting rooms, etc. I kept some quilts she made and a few paintings. I also have a trunk filled with her journals. The rest I had to make peace with getting rid of. She would never have wanted me to feel burdened in any way. It took time. Give yourself grace and time to go through the grief. Some days were better than others. Some days I couldn't deal with any of it. Best wishes on your journey.
I worry about our daughter as she is an only child. We have gone through most of our things and gave to family, donated or taken to the dump. We aren't that old but find that the stuff just isn't that important. We don't want to leave her with a pile of stuff. She will have lots of pictures and my craft room though (it's tidy, just a lot!) - poor kid I've apologized in advance lol.
So profound! The "promise" and the "power"! I'd never thought of clutter in quite that way before. And the sadness of failed promises. Peter put it so, so well.
Wow. When Peter said that he understands ‘covet’ now, it hit me that one of the principals of the early Christian church is to be content. Advertising has undermined that completely, and social media has made covetousness so much a part of our daily lives now. You can’t look at your phone without being bombarded by advertising, and how fabulous your neighbors lives are. You actually have to be completely counter culture to be at peace with yourself and your life.
Peter, for a non-religious person, you really did a great description of the sin of covetousness! I too am a devout catholic, and never really understood it as well as you described it thank you very much!
ABSOLUTELY LOVE PETER WALSH!!!! Have JUST begun watching and am so excited to keep going!! I’m so frustrated that we can’t get his tv series in the U.S.-we need it SO badly, as mass consumption plays such a huge role in global warming and the problems we are running into with the environment….something people often don’t tend to consider as one of the top contributors toward the climate crisis! More people need to be exposed to Peter and his EXTREMELY wise words!!!! He’s super on our aging and inspiring-just like y’all are, Leslie and Ingrid!!! So grateful for the show you two put out-it’s played an important role in my slowly-but-surely journey to becoming more organized as an adult living alone with ADHD-which has become more severe due to other health disorders that didn’t flare until I was about 21. The neurological problems associated with the infectious diseases+pathogens tend to cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD as it inflamed the brain. So while I was used to being the hyperactive type, I’m now struggling with the inattentive type and it’s much different! But y’all are one of my few go-to podcasts when I need to get motivated (while still getting that upbeat attitude from y’all, and without having to lose the entertainment factor!). So just wanted to take this chance to express my gratitude, and for bringing (what is so far!) an AMAZING discussion with Peter Walsh!!!! It’s people like you two ladies-who bring attention to an area of wellness/mental health that is often overlooked in the umbrella that is covered under “self-improvement”-who are truly making a difference in people’s lives…often those who have already attempted to find happiness via the go-to “self-improvement” and “happiness” books, yet didn’t find what they were looking for there-often because the problem lies within their STUFF! It becomes such a relief to finally get to a place where one no longer feels an attachment to the “things” in our lives-and the way I’ve learned to change the way I think about my relationship to “things” has been precisely via podcasts like this one!!!
I’ve watched Space Invaders online and I love the show. But to be honest, apart from recycling old paint and repurposing the odd piece of furniture, they don’t talk much on the show about the scurge of consumerism. They are sponsored by a plethora of home goods stores to give the participants new lighting fixtures, furniture, furnishings, clear plastic organizing containers, et cetera. I love Peter, his book “It’s All Too Much” is very instructional and motiviating. I’m glad he’s speaking up about these things, but again, in the tv show, not so much. As a professional organizer myself I try to work with what people already have in their home. Or gently nudge them towards more sustainable solutions like glass (tupperware) or paper or bamboo baskets - not add more cheap plastic bins! But a lot of my colleagues just buy into the ‘clear organizing containers’ hype. It’s an uphill battle when our branche organisation gives out a discount at one of those plastic-cy organizing companies 😕 Thanks for having Peter on the show!
I remember watching Peter on "Clean Sweep!" He is the OG of space clearing. Listening to his books (audio format) were so enjoyable and insightful. He is truly able to get to the core of what causes clutter to develop and offer applicable, practical resolutions. His wisdom goes beyond organizational skills. Sadly, his show isn't broadcast where I live. Thanks so much for inviting Peter to do this video. It is good to know that he is still thriving and his show is successful in Aussie Land!
“We have the stuff we need for the life we lead” - Peter Walsh referring to his own stuff. Well that is the definition of minimalism. Minimalism is not about doing without or live in an empty home but rather having what we need for the life we live. I have 5 large salad bowls. One for its beauty , one for its elegance when I have guests , one for its size to prep compact salads, and 2 others for everyday use. Being a minimalist does not mean I can only have one salad bowl but means having the number of bowls for my life style including the beautiful one. Before thinking minimally I had 14 salad bowls. I know because I count what I declutter. Why did I have so many? Because my Mom thought it to be nice gifts to buy. I kept the one I label the beautiful one that makes me think of her. The others long donated. I also have a 12 setting for dinning set that I keep if I have a larger dinner party which may happen once a year tops. I like the comfort of having those dishes but when I decluttered I eliminated the tea cups , the coffee pot because and only kept the plate setting because I know I would never use them. So to me being a minimalist means being aware of your possessions and manage them wisely instead of them managing you.
That is a really cool way to look at it! I think that's the direction that I am headed. Keep only what is useful to myself and my family, I don't have to be an extreme minimalist, but I definitely want to get rid of a huge amount of excess stuff.
So proud of you Peter for speaking out!! There is a movement of people wanting to access good quality, handmade products, which might cost the same price of 10-20 cheaper products, instead of over-consuming. For example, the capsule wardrobe advocates and those of you who are teaching about and encouraging decluttering and minimalism are to be applauded!! Perhaps a show on living and consuming a quality over quantity lifestyle is order. ❤
The more I hear from Peter Walsh, the more I love his methods and rationale! 💗🤩 We need more REAL role model types like him in the world, instead of the fake (and encouraging bad habits re: lack of sustainability etc.) "influencers" these days. They are so short-sighted, whereas Peter sees the big picture and impact of what we do. His 30days to get organized challenges have really helped me, as well as his brilliant emotional insights to really get to the roots of the issues.
My level of admiration and respect for Peter Walsh has increased astronomically as I listen to this broadcast. His views on consumerism, plastics, fast fashion, etc. mirror my own.
The tradition of gift-giving during celebrations may be cultural in nature. In my culture, the tradition is to give cash to a couple who is getting married, and they often use it to offset the cost of the wedding reception. We also give gifts to new babies when we go to visit them at home (after they return from hospital), but usually the items are practical things like diapers and baby clothes. We don't have baby showers, so there are no gifts before baby is born. For Christmas, most people I know don't give more than one gift per person within their family circle -- plus, a married couple (like uncle & aunt) would give a joint gift rather than separate gifts. So kids don't drown in gifts/toys at Christmas.
I loved it when Peter said that people have trouble giving ourselves permission to get rid of our stuff, eg for sentimental reasons), and that people are constantly comparing our lives, our material wealth and possessions, with others...very, very insightful Peter, love your efforts and wisdom, Thanks ❤❤
this is so good. I'm glad I'm not the only one frustrated with the massive influx of plastic and clothing waste. Thrift stores make me almost ill, especially when I think of how many there are, all filled with the same crap. 😢
Such a good interview. I thought of you guys when I heard Laurie Lee (audiobook) describe houses in 1930’s rural Spain as having nothing more than was useful for living.
I really love hearing Peter Walsh speak. I’ve heard two interviews of his thus far and in both he has made a point of talking about our environmental impact and his anti consumerism beliefs. It’s refreshing to hear someone who feels as strongly as I do about it and I’m glad that someone like him who has the ability to make an impact on a mass level is speaking out about this. I especially love how he talks about the plastic containers that professional organizers use. I wish more organizers used alternative options and spoke to the benefits of this because I have been swayed by the home edit to buy plastic storage bins even though it goes against my core beliefs because I just don’t know what is better. I would love organizers to speak on alternatives and to really emphasize selling items you wish to declutter or donating for more obscure places like women’s shelters vs goodwill and to emphasize recycling rather than throwing things in the landfill. Too many times I have seen RUclips organizers say “if you are too lazy to donate just throw it in the trash”. These people have too big of a following to give their audience permission to destroy our planet.
Such a great episode! What a good reminder that positive encouragement and walking the path WITH others is so much more effective than judging and shaming. I co-facilitate an annual home Reset where we encourage each other to more consciously tend our homes, using mayoral cleaning products, repurposing and donating excess when we can ... as Peter mentions - so much is the 'big companies' - but we do what we can!
Thanks. We still struggle to declutter, but I have stopped buying new things. No pleasure in shopping..... Trying to use what we have, cook at home most meals, donate and shop at thrift stores .
The companies need to start paying for recycling and discarding. They would quickly find solutions in that case but they are just allowed to destroy the planet.
He is speaking truth. Yes, we know it. Stuff does not make us happy, nor are we excited about the time it takes to move it out, but we do. Over the years we are now looking at giving it where it can be used. The important thing is to value people, relationships, time spent around those we care about and doing what we want to do to make this world a better place. Thank you for trying to reign Walsh in a bit. We need an angry voice now and then so reinforce what we know to be true. We’re working on it.❤️🙏🏽
I'm just learning about him. I love that he addresses the whys. But I'm confused. Why did he say he never thought of "going down the minimizing route"? 26:29 I want to keep learning from him.
Peter is right tha5 we must consume less. The problem with many decluttering TV shows is they are mostly on commercial TV channels, therefore with advertising, so they have to use their sponsors’ products to make the newly decluttered house look better & newer, otherwise the show could not afford to air on TV. The advertising works to lure people in. I did buy a product advertised as it was the only manufacturer who could deliver what I neeed, not just wanted in time for surgery. I could not find the product secondhand locally. If we were taught Swedish death cleaning from when we were very young, then maybe we would not have as much stuff. Yes the dilemma of the commercialism vs our ancestors eras of frugalism is real. If we let go of our memory things, who will take them if it is not their memories? Internet service providers are doing well. I haven’t turned on a TV in over a year but have watched Space Invaders online. Everyone has a product online including those who espouse minimalism. What is the answer to have reverse capitalism where everyone is equal with no hierarchies? Is it even possible that people can support each other, other living things, nurture the soil? Younger generations are breaking the system. Many don’t want hand me downs, keepsakes, glory boxes or inherited memories. Who will use the stuff? Peter might be talking gloom but he’s right if change does not happen. Tell the governments & politicians. We vote them in.
Gardeners know what happens when bits of plastic get into the soil & need to be removed to grow things, & can’t be eaten by ducks or chooks. Everything we own has to return to the earth eventually. @@declutterhub
The only way we can stop plastic is by making regulations that target the corporations. It will likely make manufacturing more expensive in the short run, but it is almost impossible to make any dent with just consumers recycling items.
If Peter Walsh doesn’t get “saddled” with a hoarding show, or his show Space Invaders doesn’t get “merged” with a hoarding show, then there’s something wrong with the world we are living in, and the system it’s being run under!!!
I have friends n sistersthat used to gift me crap that I dont need ALL THE TIME. I finally had to tell them that if I can't eat, drink or otherwise consume it, please dont waste your money. I started refusing their gifts- they wouldnt listen. Some people are addicted to shopping😮
His instant rejection of minimalism seems completely irrational, coming right after what he just ranted about. Perhaps he misunderstands what minimalism is. Having the things you need for the life you live isn't outside minimalism. In fact, that may be the definition. He's likely thinking of an example of extreme minimalism.
Can you do a story on people who live in falling down housing with no money ? It doesn't matter how minimalist I live, my place is falling down, cracked walls, broken glass and peeling paint. Surely, I'm not alone. I can't afford to fix anything on my wage and don;t tell me to work more or earn more, I cannot work harder. I would like advice
And for folks who think recycling plastics is a solution, recycling plastic is a terrible source of microplastics. For every ounce of recycled plastic product that's produced, more than an ounce of microplastic is introduced into the environment. Ground up plastics and toxic additives are released.
Oh hell. I believe you. Actually, I’m currently retroactively FURIOUS at the dude who poisoned bottles of Advil in the 80s. We are suffering the consequences of a glue and plastic cartel to keep our comestibles SAFE!!!???!!! I can’t even open packages anymore. Remember wax paper and cellophane? Sigh.
What a powerful criticism of single use plastic, fast fashion + corporate exploitation of the planet! Very useful. I have always criticized Dollar Store as almost all is Chinese-made but filling U.S. landfills + our bodies w/plastic particles. Thank you!!!
I recycle plastic, paper (even toilet paper rolls) , fabrics for my craft. I can sew and do alteration. I thrift. We grow vegetables and fruits and even some nuts. We cook from scratch. My car is 20 years old (somebody buy me an electric one 😅) I think we deserve some sort of recognition or a Medal of Honor 😅😂😅
My dear little mother was a real bowerbird. But she was born and raised during the Depression. She had only one dress beside her school uniform. I don't know why: her parents could have afforded more. But now l see why she squirrelled away everything she thought might one day be useful. I absorbed that lesson growing up, although mum made sure l never went without anything l actually needed. There's a generational trauma. If my kids ever need something, I want to be able to give it to them. I don't have the money. It makes it hard to let go of the stuff.
This interview reinforces how kind and generous in spirit Lesley and the Declutter Hub are. In contrast, Peter Walsh was his usual self. I have yet to hear an interview with him in which he doesn't badmouth other people, in this case Joshua Becker and Marie Kondo. Thank you Ingrid and Lesley for being the lovely people you are and for making your points without putting down others in the decluttering / organizing world.
I heard somewhere that what Marie describes as only keeping what sparks joy doesn’t translate well always, so perhaps she receives unfair criticism for this reason, nothing I own (for example meat thermometer) sparks joy but I do my best to make sure everything is used and useful.
“This minimalism thing is not the way I choose to live my life” (This was his commentary on Marie kondo etc). I don’t see him denigrating anyone, just saying these particular methods are not for him.
I understand your reaction; it shook me also, nonetheless, I think that we MUST take it as guidance to NOT consume ANYMORE what is not essential; and somehow, gives an alternative to those words: to STOP things at the door! We billions of people just...buy...what they NEED (and no plastic, no fast fashion) ...oh man! it WOULD make a difference. Don't you think? I hope that ...I give you hope ;) helene
Although I agree with a lot of White Peter says and he made some really good points., Every time you would try to talk, he would start talking over you and that was rather irritating.
He's wrong. Small changes add up. Knowledge is power. Action is needed. Its more work and initial money to buy steel or glass that we can wash, then paper or plastic products that are convenient.
He is so negative. Mr. Doom and gloom. Why not think of solutions and encourage them then just say we’ve screwed ourselves. Obviously he is admittedly “ not religious” at all. No faith in any kind of redemption on any level. Sad for him.
But surely the redemption comes after, if you are religious? It isn't meant as a 'get out of jail' card for wrecking the planet. There are lots of people coming up with solutions, but unfortunately the idea of having more stuff, faster, not necessarily better, is the mindset of too many people (and governments).
Mr. Walsh lamented the fact that in our society all the holidays necessitate gifts or bringing things into our homes and said there are no holidays where something leaves our house. I would suggest Mr. Walsh learn about the Biblically commanded appointed times, particularly of the Feast Unleavened Bread and the Feast of Tabernacles. Christians have been and still are taught to abandon these.....as well as other Biblically appointed days...and other 'invented' holidays have been substituted in their place. We are seeing the fruit of that action.
This interview made him go down a lot in my estimation. On the one hand, he acknowledges mass consumption is killing the planet. On the other, he refuses to stop buying junk he doesn’t need and disses minimalism? Well kindly get out of the way then, while we save the planet YOU are destroying.
I like Peter Walsh for organizing but I prefer he stay out of the political realm as I do not buy into the green agenda. I didn't come here to watch this interview to hear him go on a spiel about planet Earth!
It's challenging but Peter Walsh is speaking the truth. We have not only overwhelmed our homes, we have overwhelmed our planet. Barely anything we believe we are recycling is coming back into our homes as new products. We move stuff from our house to donation centres, recycling hubs, other people's homes, and feel good. But we keep producing and consuming on a global level far beyond what we can use as a species.
It'a tough topic and thankfully the world is waking up and trying to make changes slowly but surely. Thanks for listening
As a word of encouragement, I would like to say that I have decluttrred my stuff and I have not replaced it. My goal is minimalism: living with only what you need now. It feels so good to have empty space that I don't want to fill it up with stuff again. People I watch besides Joshua Becker, are Minamial Mom, Dana K White., Clutterbug. I'm not an extreme minimalist and I understand the emotional struggle of letting go of stuff esp sentimental stuff but I'm old enough that stuff has become a burden and I'm ready to let it go.
Hopefully we'll be on your list now too as a motivator to carry on your great work x@@maggierose97
This is so true. Much that is put in recycling bins unfortunately ends up in landfills. Not buying things is a little thing that makes more of an impact actually. Strangely covid and becoming poor has helped me personally stop this bad habit. I used to love to shop. I found it relaxing. I would intend to only window shop but temptation of a "good deal" would get me. When everything closed during covid it broke the habit for me and because I lost a lot of work that I never recovered even as things opened up I no longer had money for it. I use rags rather that paper towels, I cannot afford bottled water anymore and I have not bought any new clothes just keep wearing same old. I still have so little money I buy very little and have learned to fully use everything that comes into my home. I am also learning to repair my clothes. I'm not great at the repairing holes in sweaters yet but I'm getting there😊
Well done Stef @@stefs3460
This was a great episode. My mom just passed away. She lived in her home her entire life. I grew up there. Now I have one of the hardest jobs I have ever had & that is cleaning out her house.. my family home & sell it. 😢😢😢😢😢 How am I going to throw her things away? I can’t keep everything. I’m the only child. I don’t know how I’m going to do this but this episode helped me & I thank you both so very, very much!!!🙌🙌👍
so very sorry for your loss
I'm sorry for your loss. I had to do this also. When I got overwhelmed I just boxed up the things I hadn't gotten to & brought them home. Went through boxes a few months later.
My husband is an only child with a chronic illness. His mother was an actual hoarder. We started cleaning out her house in 2015 when she went into the nursing home. She died in 2021 and we are still hauling stuff out of the house. I will say that it gets easier to let things go. Oftentimes they have deteriorated with time. Also, you just get sick and tired of dealing with it snd you load up the car or trash can with it. She has land so we burn much of it in cathartic bonfires. Keep only the things you have room for in your home that you can display or use that really remind you of her. The rest really does have to go and it will be okay. I promise. 🙏🏻💕
I told myself that my mom got enjoyment from her things and her artistic projects. That's what counted. I found homes for certain items where I knew they would be appreciated. Art supplies to an autistic boy that only communicated through art. Towels to the humane society. Books to hospital waiting rooms, etc. I kept some quilts she made and a few paintings. I also have a trunk filled with her journals. The rest I had to make peace with getting rid of. She would never have wanted me to feel burdened in any way. It took time. Give yourself grace and time to go through the grief. Some days were better than others. Some days I couldn't deal with any of it. Best wishes on your journey.
I worry about our daughter as she is an only child. We have gone through most of our things and gave to family, donated or taken to the dump. We aren't that old but find that the stuff just isn't that important. We don't want to leave her with a pile of stuff. She will have lots of pictures and my craft room though (it's tidy, just a lot!) - poor kid I've apologized in advance lol.
So profound! The "promise" and the "power"! I'd never thought of clutter in quite that way before. And the sadness of failed promises. Peter put it so, so well.
Thank you for sharing.
Wow. When Peter said that he understands ‘covet’ now, it hit me that one of the principals of the early Christian church is to be content. Advertising has undermined that completely, and social media has made covetousness so much a part of our daily lives now. You can’t look at your phone without being bombarded by advertising, and how fabulous your neighbors lives are. You actually have to be completely counter culture to be at peace with yourself and your life.
thank you for sharing your thoughts - interesting
For Christmas and birthdays, I always ask my husband to declutter
Peter, for a non-religious person, you really did a great description of the sin of covetousness! I too am a devout catholic, and never really understood it as well as you described it thank you very much!
I agree 100%. Lol
ABSOLUTELY LOVE PETER WALSH!!!! Have JUST begun watching and am so excited to keep going!! I’m so frustrated that we can’t get his tv series in the U.S.-we need it SO badly, as mass consumption plays such a huge role in global warming and the problems we are running into with the environment….something people often don’t tend to consider as one of the top contributors toward the climate crisis! More people need to be exposed to Peter and his EXTREMELY wise words!!!! He’s super on our aging and inspiring-just like y’all are, Leslie and Ingrid!!!
So grateful for the show you two put out-it’s played an important role in my slowly-but-surely journey to becoming more organized as an adult living alone with ADHD-which has become more severe due to other health disorders that didn’t flare until I was about 21. The neurological problems associated with the infectious diseases+pathogens tend to cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD as it inflamed the brain. So while I was used to being the hyperactive type, I’m now struggling with the inattentive type and it’s much different! But y’all are one of my few go-to podcasts when I need to get motivated (while still getting that upbeat attitude from y’all, and without having to lose the entertainment factor!).
So just wanted to take this chance to express my gratitude, and for bringing (what is so far!) an AMAZING discussion with Peter Walsh!!!!
It’s people like you two ladies-who bring attention to an area of wellness/mental health that is often overlooked in the umbrella that is covered under “self-improvement”-who are truly making a difference in people’s lives…often those who have already attempted to find happiness via the go-to “self-improvement” and “happiness” books, yet didn’t find what they were looking for there-often because the problem lies within their STUFF!
It becomes such a relief to finally get to a place where one no longer feels an attachment to the “things” in our lives-and the way I’ve learned to change the way I think about my relationship to “things” has been precisely via podcasts like this one!!!
This is exactly why we do this podcast each and every week. So glad it's making a difference x
I’ve watched Space Invaders online and I love the show. But to be honest, apart from recycling old paint and repurposing the odd piece of furniture, they don’t talk much on the show about the scurge of consumerism.
They are sponsored by a plethora of home goods stores to give the participants new lighting fixtures, furniture, furnishings, clear plastic organizing containers, et cetera.
I love Peter, his book “It’s All Too Much” is very instructional and motiviating. I’m glad he’s speaking up about these things, but again, in the tv show, not so much.
As a professional organizer myself I try to work with what people already have in their home. Or gently nudge them towards more sustainable solutions like glass (tupperware) or paper or bamboo baskets - not add more cheap plastic bins! But a lot of my colleagues just buy into the ‘clear organizing containers’ hype. It’s an uphill battle when our branche organisation gives out a discount at one of those plastic-cy organizing companies 😕
Thanks for having Peter on the show!
I remember watching Peter on "Clean Sweep!" He is the OG of space clearing. Listening to his books (audio format) were so enjoyable and insightful. He is truly able to get to the core of what causes clutter to develop and offer applicable, practical resolutions. His wisdom goes beyond organizational skills. Sadly, his show isn't broadcast where I live. Thanks so much for inviting Peter to do this video. It is good to know that he is still thriving and his show is successful in Aussie Land!
We all wish we could get his show here too. He's been doing what he does for so long!
“We have the stuff we need for the life we lead” - Peter Walsh referring to his own stuff. Well that is the definition of minimalism. Minimalism is not about doing without or live in an empty home but rather having what we need for the life we live. I have 5 large salad bowls. One for its beauty , one for its elegance when I have guests , one for its size to prep compact salads, and 2 others for everyday use. Being a minimalist does not mean I can only have one salad bowl but means having the number of bowls for my life style including the beautiful one. Before thinking minimally I had 14 salad bowls. I know because I count what I declutter. Why did I have so many? Because my Mom thought it to be nice gifts to buy. I kept the one I label the beautiful one that makes me think of her. The others long donated.
I also have a 12 setting for dinning set that I keep if I have a larger dinner party which may happen once a year tops. I like the comfort of having those dishes but when I decluttered I eliminated the tea cups , the coffee pot because and only kept the plate setting because I know I would never use them. So to me being a minimalist means being aware of your possessions and manage them wisely instead of them managing you.
What a great summary of what minimalism means to you x
That is a really cool way to look at it! I think that's the direction that I am headed. Keep only what is useful to myself and my family, I don't have to be an extreme minimalist, but I definitely want to get rid of a huge amount of excess stuff.
@@TavitaRaks so true you don't have to be an extreme minimalist. You want the items in your home to reflect your current life.
So proud of you Peter for speaking out!! There is a movement of people wanting to access good quality, handmade products, which might cost the same price of 10-20 cheaper products, instead of over-consuming. For example, the capsule wardrobe advocates and those of you who are teaching about and encouraging decluttering and minimalism are to be applauded!! Perhaps a show on living and consuming a quality over quantity lifestyle is order. ❤
When the student is ready, the teacher will come.
This discussion sank in. I
The more I hear from Peter Walsh, the more I love his methods and rationale! 💗🤩 We need more REAL role model types like him in the world, instead of the fake (and encouraging bad habits re: lack of sustainability etc.) "influencers" these days. They are so short-sighted, whereas Peter sees the big picture and impact of what we do.
His 30days to get organized challenges have really helped me, as well as his brilliant emotional insights to really get to the roots of the issues.
so pleased to hear this Hannah
My level of admiration and respect for Peter Walsh has increased astronomically as I listen to this broadcast. His views on consumerism, plastics, fast fashion, etc. mirror my own.
Glad you enjoyed the episode
The tradition of gift-giving during celebrations may be cultural in nature. In my culture, the tradition is to give cash to a couple who is getting married, and they often use it to offset the cost of the wedding reception. We also give gifts to new babies when we go to visit them at home (after they return from hospital), but usually the items are practical things like diapers and baby clothes. We don't have baby showers, so there are no gifts before baby is born. For Christmas, most people I know don't give more than one gift per person within their family circle -- plus, a married couple (like uncle & aunt) would give a joint gift rather than separate gifts. So kids don't drown in gifts/toys at Christmas.
thanks for sharing Irene, so interesting!
Peter is a wonder! ❤ God bless him.
Glad you enjoyed the episode.
I loved it when Peter said that people have trouble giving ourselves permission to get rid of our stuff, eg for sentimental reasons), and that people are constantly comparing our lives, our material wealth and possessions, with others...very, very insightful Peter, love your efforts and wisdom, Thanks ❤❤
thanks for sharing your thoughts Caroline
this is so good. I'm glad I'm not the only one frustrated with the massive influx of plastic and clothing waste. Thrift stores make me almost ill, especially when I think of how many there are, all filled with the same crap. 😢
Such a good interview. I thought of you guys when I heard Laurie Lee (audiobook) describe houses in 1930’s rural Spain as having nothing more than was useful for living.
Thank you - so glad you enjoyed it x
What book is that?
@@natalies5818 as I walked out one midsummer morning, it’s very good.
I really love hearing Peter Walsh speak. I’ve heard two interviews of his thus far and in both he has made a point of talking about our environmental impact and his anti consumerism beliefs. It’s refreshing to hear someone who feels as strongly as I do about it and I’m glad that someone like him who has the ability to make an impact on a mass level is speaking out about this. I especially love how he talks about the plastic containers that professional organizers use. I wish more organizers used alternative options and spoke to the benefits of this because I have been swayed by the home edit to buy plastic storage bins even though it goes against my core beliefs because I just don’t know what is better. I would love organizers to speak on alternatives and to really emphasize selling items you wish to declutter or donating for more obscure places like women’s shelters vs goodwill and to emphasize recycling rather than throwing things in the landfill. Too many times I have seen RUclips organizers say “if you are too lazy to donate just throw it in the trash”. These people have too big of a following to give their audience permission to destroy our planet.
we appreciate you sharing your thoughts, thanks!
I am so overwhelmed.
so sorry to hear that, have you joined our Facebook group?
Such a great episode!
What a good reminder that positive encouragement and walking the path WITH others is so much more effective than judging and shaming.
I co-facilitate an annual home Reset where we encourage each other to more consciously tend our homes, using mayoral cleaning products, repurposing and donating excess when we can ... as Peter mentions - so much is the 'big companies' - but we do what we can!
So pleased you enjoyed it
I’m SO sad that your show Space Invaders hasn’t been released in the US! I’m sure it would be so popular here!!
Yes, I'm sure it would!
When you judge someone, you've put up a barrier between you two. Wow, so true. Empathy for the win.
it really is
Amen, to covet what others have and to compare ourselves to others. What true words!!!
U.S. Get Organized Day is celebrated on April 26 every year. It's a day dedicated to cleaning up and decluttering your homes and offices.
thanks for letting us know
Never heard of this day but it should be advertised more!
Love about the plastic detergent bottle, can't say i have seen a glass container equivalent. Perhaps they exist but not in the usual supermarkets
Thanks. We still struggle to declutter, but I have stopped buying new things. No pleasure in shopping.....
Trying to use what we have, cook at home most meals, donate and shop at thrift stores .
That is a great start and decluttering will get easier over time.
What we need is massive regulations on plastic- for now, buying as little as possible. Glass, cardboard, tin all better than plastic!
Definitely
The companies need to start paying for recycling and discarding. They would quickly find solutions in that case but they are just allowed to destroy the planet.
He is speaking truth. Yes, we know it. Stuff does not make us happy, nor are we excited about the time it takes to move it out, but we do. Over the years we are now looking at giving it where it can be used. The important thing is to value people, relationships, time spent around those we care about and doing what we want to do to make this world a better place. Thank you for trying to reign Walsh in a bit. We need an angry voice now and then so reinforce what we know to be true. We’re working on it.❤️🙏🏽
Thank you for your feedback.
Wow. Everyone should hear ….and really listen.. to this. Powerful truths.
thanks
thank you for bringing up the sustainability issues Peter!
you're so welcome
For people not in Australia one can use a VPN ( Virtual Private Network) to access programs outside ones geographical area.
Thanks for the info!
I'm just learning about him. I love that he addresses the whys. But I'm confused. Why did he say he never thought of "going down the minimizing route"? 26:29 I want to keep learning from him.
Yes it was interesting, that's for sure
This is sooooooo good
I loved the comments about empathy vs judgement and people waiting for a permission they don't need. Is part two coming soon?
Yes on 9th Feb. Thanks for listening!
A great analysis of the meaning behind the “stuff” we hang on to. We use material possessions to hopefully supply the happiness only God can supply.
Peter is right tha5 we must consume less. The problem with many decluttering TV shows is they are mostly on commercial TV channels, therefore with advertising, so they have to use their sponsors’ products to make the newly decluttered house look better & newer, otherwise the show could not afford to air on TV. The advertising works to lure people in. I did buy a product advertised as it was the only manufacturer who could deliver what I neeed, not just wanted in time for surgery. I could not find the product secondhand locally. If we were taught Swedish death cleaning from when we were very young, then maybe we would not have as much stuff. Yes the dilemma of the commercialism vs our ancestors eras of frugalism is real. If we let go of our memory things, who will take them if it is not their memories? Internet service providers are doing well. I haven’t turned on a TV in over a year but have watched Space Invaders online. Everyone has a product online including those who espouse minimalism. What is the answer to have reverse capitalism where everyone is equal with no hierarchies? Is it even possible that people can support each other, other living things, nurture the soil? Younger generations are breaking the system. Many don’t want hand me downs, keepsakes, glory boxes or inherited memories. Who will use the stuff? Peter might be talking gloom but he’s right if change does not happen. Tell the governments & politicians. We vote them in.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts
Gardeners know what happens when bits of plastic get into the soil & need to be removed to grow things, & can’t be eaten by ducks or chooks. Everything we own has to return to the earth eventually. @@declutterhub
Yes Peter Walsh! We need to stop buying. Stop buying plastic. Just stop buying stuff.
The volumes coming into your home are just as important as what is leaving.
The only way we can stop plastic is by making regulations that target the corporations. It will likely make manufacturing more expensive in the short run, but it is almost impossible to make any dent with just consumers recycling items.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I agree that besides the consumer recycling so much more needs to be done.
If Peter Walsh doesn’t get “saddled” with a hoarding show, or his show Space Invaders doesn’t get “merged” with a hoarding show, then there’s something wrong with the world we are living in, and the system it’s being run under!!!
I have friends n sistersthat used to gift me crap that I dont need ALL THE TIME. I finally had to tell them that if I can't eat, drink or otherwise consume it, please dont waste your money. I started refusing their gifts- they wouldnt listen. Some people are addicted to shopping😮
Yes, shopping can definitely be addictive!
His instant rejection of minimalism seems completely irrational, coming right after what he just ranted about. Perhaps he misunderstands what minimalism is. Having the things you need for the life you live isn't outside minimalism. In fact, that may be the definition. He's likely thinking of an example of extreme minimalism.
It was an interesting viewpoint for sure
At 79, I am struggling with "decisions." I have said I hope someone steals 'it' or burns it down. If I didn't know it was there, I would be okay.
So sorry to hear you are struggling, just take things one step at a time
He has written a clutter of books!!
love this
Can you do a story on people who live in falling down housing with no money ? It doesn't matter how minimalist I live, my place is falling down, cracked walls, broken glass and peeling paint. Surely, I'm not alone. I can't afford to fix anything on my wage and don;t tell me to work more or earn more, I cannot work harder. I would like advice
And for folks who think recycling plastics is a solution, recycling plastic is a terrible source of microplastics. For every ounce of recycled plastic product that's produced, more than an ounce of microplastic is introduced into the environment. Ground up plastics and toxic additives are released.
Oh hell. I believe you. Actually, I’m currently retroactively FURIOUS at the dude who poisoned bottles of Advil in the 80s. We are suffering the consequences of a glue and plastic cartel to keep our comestibles SAFE!!!???!!! I can’t even open packages anymore.
Remember wax paper and cellophane? Sigh.
What a powerful criticism of single use plastic, fast fashion + corporate exploitation of the planet! Very useful. I have always criticized Dollar Store as almost all is Chinese-made but filling U.S. landfills + our bodies w/plastic particles. Thank you!!!
so pleased you found it useful!
❤❤❤ you Peter Walsh ❤😊❤.
so pleased you enjoyed it
Wonderful video!When Peter said that he is catholic and thou shalt not covet, It really impacted me because I am catholic,Donate to others in need.😇
thanks for sharing
Yes! Decoration is complicated.
Totally!
I recycle plastic, paper (even toilet paper rolls) , fabrics for my craft. I can sew and do alteration. I thrift. We grow vegetables and fruits and even some nuts. We cook from scratch. My car is 20 years old (somebody buy me an electric one 😅) I think we deserve some sort of recognition or a Medal of Honor 😅😂😅
You get a big thumbs up from us!
BRAVO 🎉🎉
thank you!
My dear little mother was a real bowerbird. But she was born and raised during the Depression. She had only one dress beside her school uniform. I don't know why: her parents could have afforded more. But now l see why she squirrelled away everything she thought might one day be useful. I absorbed that lesson growing up, although mum made sure l never went without anything l actually needed. There's a generational trauma. If my kids ever need something, I want to be able to give it to them. I don't have the money. It makes it hard to let go of the stuff.
Such an important point you are making, thank you for sharing
lots to think about, I will be buying less, but more thoughtfully. Also using less plastic and changing the only behavior I can control. Thanks
Absolutely! thanks for listening
This interview reinforces how kind and generous in spirit Lesley and the Declutter Hub are. In contrast, Peter Walsh was his usual self. I have yet to hear an interview with him in which he doesn't badmouth other people, in this case Joshua Becker and Marie Kondo. Thank you Ingrid and Lesley for being the lovely people you are and for making your points without putting down others in the decluttering / organizing world.
Thank you Lauren. Really kind words which mean a lot x
I heard somewhere that what Marie describes as only keeping what sparks joy doesn’t translate well always, so perhaps she receives unfair criticism for this reason, nothing I own (for example meat thermometer) sparks joy but I do my best to make sure everything is used and useful.
Yes absolutely x
“This minimalism thing is not the way I choose to live my life” (This was his commentary on Marie kondo etc). I don’t see him denigrating anyone, just saying these particular methods are not for him.
@@HerWanderlust It's just that Marie Kondo is not and has never claimed to be a minimalist. She clearly says she is not a minimalist.
16:00 the mass waste going to GHANA on lg. American barges is the #UNSUSTAINABLE truth.
godly contentment is #theWAY
I believe Peter is also an #ESSENTIALIST by intent
Wow.
If one thinks "we are doomed," why bother giving advice at all?
He was indeed quite bleak about the future
I understand your reaction; it shook me also, nonetheless, I think that we MUST take it as guidance to NOT consume ANYMORE what is not essential; and somehow, gives an alternative to those words: to STOP things at the door! We billions of people just...buy...what they NEED (and no plastic, no fast fashion) ...oh man! it WOULD make a difference.
Don't you think?
I hope that ...I give you hope ;) helene
The advice was “we are likely doomed unless ---“ . ❤️
Bc we are still here living
Omg. I have this thinking. Yikes. 😳
so glad to hear you are having lightblub moments, you've got this
❤❤❤
thank you
Sorry Peter, but I do not buy into that… I give gifts that are from my home or secondhand.
Of all that people recycle, only 10-15% of plastics are actually recycled. The rest is put in landfill.
The statistics are tough, that's for sure
Although I agree with a lot of White Peter says and he made some really good points., Every time you would try to talk, he would start talking over you and that was rather irritating.
Correction: What not white.
thanks for sharing
Plastics and chemicals, and dyes, and pesticides, and oil, and nuclear waste are the truly dangerous waste.
Now there’s another threat nobody’s talking about: how to recycle lithium batteries, wind turbines etc 😢😢😢
I worry for the environment too.
He's wrong. Small changes add up. Knowledge is power. Action is needed.
Its more work and initial money to buy steel or glass that we can wash, then paper or plastic products that are convenient.
As soon as a declutterred tells you to buy something I stop following that person.
thank you whew,,,, its scary ,,but true boo hoo very helpful plus food for thought.
He is so negative. Mr. Doom and gloom. Why not think of solutions and encourage them then just say we’ve screwed ourselves. Obviously he is admittedly “ not religious” at all. No faith in any kind of redemption on any level. Sad for him.
But surely the redemption comes after, if you are religious? It isn't meant as a 'get out of jail' card for wrecking the planet. There are lots of people coming up with solutions, but unfortunately the idea of having more stuff, faster, not necessarily better, is the mindset of too many people (and governments).
Mr. Walsh lamented the fact that in our society all the holidays necessitate gifts or bringing things into our homes and said there are no holidays where something leaves our house. I would suggest Mr. Walsh learn about the Biblically commanded appointed times, particularly of the Feast Unleavened Bread and the Feast of Tabernacles. Christians have been and still are taught to abandon these.....as well as other Biblically appointed days...and other 'invented' holidays have been substituted in their place. We are seeing the fruit of that action.
interesting
This interview made him go down a lot in my estimation. On the one hand, he acknowledges mass consumption is killing the planet. On the other, he refuses to stop buying junk he doesn’t need and disses minimalism? Well kindly get out of the way then, while we save the planet YOU are destroying.
I get it when he says we're doomed. But it sounds like you're being part of the problem and not part of the solution.
We appreciate your comments Margo - what do you think?
And now Temu, "Shop like a billionaire" slogan - meaning buy, buy, buy cheap stuff
very true
Nope, don’t say “you” Peter, you can speak for yourself. Don’t speak for me.
ADHD people have a really hard time listening to a long intro.
Thanks for your feedback, we really appreciate it
I like Peter Walsh for organizing but I prefer he stay out of the political realm as I do not buy into the green agenda. I didn't come here to watch this interview to hear him go on a spiel about planet Earth!
I don't understand why concern for planet earth is considered "political."