Thank you so much for watching! I greatly appreciate it :) Here are the links mentioned in this video: Buy the Bundt Cake Book (& Donate) here: www.theminimalmom.com/bundt-cakes My Earrings: cli.re/Heart-Earrings (Helps an awesome cause! Use DAWN15 for 15% off anything on their site!) My Sweater: amzn.to/3Es6tgt TK Coleman on Instagram (great follow!): instagram.com/officialtkcoleman/ :: OTHER RECENT LINKS :: Our Holiday Gift Guide: cli.re/gift-guide-2022 5 Days to an Organized Christmas Workshop (FREE!): cli.re/organized-christmas-signup Decluttering by Faith Devotional: cli.re/Devotional
As someone else also mentioned, it's in Bloomington, not Minneapolis - it's on the SE corner of Cedar and 494, and even of the airport, only the northern tip of it is actually inside Minneapolis city limits (the rest is technically in the county). Please edit at least the description box to say Bloomington.
I am a broken record but I have to thank Dawn again for helping me figure out simplifying our home. As the holidays are starting I am so proud of the work that I have done through these videos and the workbook because I am a different person to be around than in holidays past. I am not stressed...I am not cranky...I am not resenting my husband because there is not the stress of a cluttered home hanging over all of the joys of the season. I am proud that anyone could call and say they are ten minutes away and I am totally fine having them pop in...all because I found a video back in 2020.
Some time ago, I had a eureka moment. I realised that the mall was my "free storage place of things I might need in the future that was always perfectly curated and kept up-to-date" - so I don't need to buy and store anything at home! I don't know if that makes sense but to me it does lol. I am not a mall person and rarely go there but this perspective change has helped me at times when I am tempted to buy things I don't need right now or ever! I can just look at them and enjoy them from my "storage space" and knowing they are always there hahaha
I heard this once too & it resonated! Until 2020 and empty shelves :( Now my mom and I were noticing it is the affordable options that are first off the shelves (food, clearance, baby items) as we are in these high price times...
I have lived a challenging life, raising 4 children as a single working mom (no child support), one with disabilities. I always was able to say, “don’t worry God will take care of me”. Today I am empty nested, my children are grown. During that time, I just focused on doing the best with what I could. We wanted for nothing, even though we had very little, we were creative in everything. I am so blessed, I look back with such a feeling of gratitude. I think happiness is considering the positive memories, as well as comparing to the actual rough times. We have so much to be grateful for. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.
Yes! Yes! Yes! Helping others and replacing bad things with good is something that I've been learning over the past several years. As someone who tends to struggle with depression I have found that focusing on others and serving them makes me less depressed since I'm not focused on ME and MY PROBLEMS. If your feeling down then go out and help someone, you'll be helping both of you!
Exactly this 💗 I've also finally got to a place that I can unpick and start to heal the root causes of my depression (with meds, therapy and meaningful relationships after decluttering the bad apples). I hope you can when you're ready too 🙏
@@HannahRainbow88 Thank you! I have a family history of depression (mother and her mother) and have suffered strongly from it myself in the past. My husband has really helped me heal from it and always seems to know just how to pull me out when I start to slip back into that gloomy pre-depression phase. I'm glad you are recovering! May God bless you!
I have to thank Dawn more for her relaxed (not pushy) attitude to religion. I am from Australia and not into religion but only minimalism. Thanks to her I have started to embrace religion and started learning to learn so much. When you have not been raised with religion it can be confronting and scary.
You're right about being so fortunate and that everything is relative to your surroundings. Many years ago my husband and I would take the girls to look at Christmas lights and often end up in the wealthiest areas of the city. Of course they could afford the biggest, and brightest, and most magnificent displays. But if we got caught up in the wealth and grandeur, our oldest would remind us that some people live in cardboard boxes. Cardboard boxes is a phrase that we've used for nearly 30 years if we're being even a little envious of someone else's possessions. It emphasizes all the wonderful things we do have and really puts things in perspective.
Thank you for the trip to the mall because I haven't been to a mall in years! Before 1991, I used to go to the mall for entertainment (movies), lunch & clothes. I would spend the entire day at the mall until my feet couldn't carry me another step. In 1992, I decided to get out of debt & I determined not to go to a mall nor shop for anything but groceries for a year. Well, that broke the shopping habit & I've never gone back to it. Best of all I have never gone back into debt again.
I host a frugal Facebook group and recently one of our new members asked for suggestions on equipment that actually helps save money while performing food prep or cooking. I thought to myself " I do not have any suggestions . The reason - I am old fashioned. No airfryer, blender, instantapot , kitchen aid, breadmaker, pressure cooker not even a toaster in my kitchen . I simply use a spoon, bowl or fork , oven , microwave, crockpot or I do have a convection oven. And, I am happy. Once in a while I use my soup tool to blend soup but more often I eat thick, rustic Soups. And I am happy making simple meals with simple equipment. No criticism for others but I know what works for me. Thank you Dawn
Hi Dawn! I just want to let you know how much I enjoy your videos and what a change they are making in my life. Today I watched your video on contentment and have to say that I really feel content. My husband of 52 years died very unexpectedly just 4 months ago. Since then I have come to realize that "things" no longer matter to me. Relationships do! I am slowly going through my house getting rid of things that no longer have meaning to me and it feels so good. God has richly blessed me and I pray that I can simplify my life and live a life honoring Him and hopefully be a positive influence on others. I regret that it has taken losing my husband, who I loved dearly, to realize that family and friends are what's important in life. Thank you Dawn for all you do. You are a wonderful example of God's love.
I am thankful for you this season , Dawn! I walked through the entire "At Home' store the other day and bought NOTHING! I appreciated the items in the store but realized I didn't need more to 'manage'. It was a weird feeling but a personal victory! Happy Thanksgiving everyone! 😀
Yes! Congratulations, that is indeed a victory. And I am celebrating a similar "win" myself! I went to a thrift shop and an antique store last weekend (to donate/sell some items I was decluttering). I looked around, took in the sights, and bought nothing! Wow!
Good for you! Marketing to consumers is geared to be beautiful and in-your-face. THEY are out to make money and have us part with our HARD EARNED MONEY when we don't need what they are marketing. It's all a game, and I am glad YOU won! "I can admire without having to acquire". Rick Warren, Pastor of Saddleback Church in California, author of "The Purpose Driven Life".
The other side of decluttering is blessing others with the things we are not using. I love to imagine someone finding exactly what they need for pennies on the dollar out of the things I have let go of. The money I spent on them was gone when I bought them. The space that I get back and the time I no longer need to spend caring for excess stuff is the blessing I get from decluttering.
I love this. I was just telling my sister the other day that I am content. Everyone is always looking for something bigger and better. Why can’t we just be happy for what we have. I recently bought a condo by myself and have a great job I love.
Wow, Minimal Mum corresponding from deep behind enemy lines from the heart of consumerism - the mall! 😂 Awesome public vlogging skills, brave lady! Thanks for your thoughts on contentment, they make a lot of sense.
I’m decluttering my house, but go shopping without buying all kind of things gives me contentment as well. Whenever I see something I like I straightaway think about what I already have. I’m rather poor and live in a small apartment, but still I’m content with the things that I do have. And yes I do take care of my 86 years old neighbour and I used to take care of my parents before they died and that certainly gives contentment as well, but I think people shouldn’t always want to have what other people might have.
@@girlonaswing9439 my kids actually did that, the boys were fighting and one hit the other with the steam mop and broke it, they both hid it in the attic!! $100 Steam mop!!
Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom with us. The way you speak shows kindness and compassion to those of us who are just beginning to walk the path of minimalism. You have a gift and you are a gift. Thank you!
We are doing our upgrade shopping now (Black Friday) but before we went we did a list of what we NEEDED.we also made a bag with the old item your getting, to donate. It went great! Cheap prices, donations, and a real idea of what we needed so we can stay focused and not get distracted by sales!
@Ron and Patti Telfer could be that the current item is no longer serving them? Needs to be bigger because family grew. Or smaller because too heavy and being older/less mobile/injured. Or even simpler things such as my bathrobe being too short and not comfortable in general, therefore it is not performing it's function for wear outside of home (hospital, sauna etc) and it's not getting used. So I can donate it to ensure it is not decaying in my closet and buy something that functions as it should.
We’ll we replace because it’s worn out (socks underwear no wires in bra lol) or has stains. Also sometimes you want to treat yourself with better shoes but your cheap so this is the time when your comfortable getting it lol
Dawn, I want to thank you so much for all your videos and motivation! I came across your channel around August. I have started the decluttering process. It’s just me and my husband in our home now. I started in my closet, then my dresser, my side of the bathroom and our joint shelves in the master bathroom. My husband noticed, but I think he was doubtful I’d stick with it. I’m guilty of being a little passive aggressive and thinking if he won’t help with the house, why should I do it ALL. So I have let the clutter in our home office pile up. All that to say I have decluttered the master bathroom, everything of mine in our bedroom, the home office, and guest bathroom. The kitchen in next on the list. But I’m excited to tell you that my husband has asked me to help him with his closet, I did and only did as much as he was ready, then last night he told me that he has noticed how much I’ve done! He wanted to know what changed, I told him I have come to realize I don’t have the bandwidth to manage all that is in our house. And the never ending to do list to try. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Have him watch Dawn's videos with you. She is pleasant to listen to and easy on the eyes, so he should not balk at doing so. This will also help him, IMO.
Some great ah-ha concepts: The 'stuff' is only relevant to the lower levels of the contentment scale and helping others automatically makes us grateful and things like IG scrolling and gossip just melt away.
This may be deeper than you like to go, I'm going to share anyway. When I lived with the ego in control there was always separateness, impulsivity and drama. Along with wanting to win at everything even if it caused me to go broke, stuff my house with junk or my belly, ruin a relationship, act childish and on and on. When I switched over and allowed my true-self to lead I was more focused on connections. I was able to recognize the simple things in life as miracles and that excites me. I am able to view obstacles or stumbling blocks with curiosity and acceptance, while focusing on one inspired action at a time. Amazement, acceptance, and curiosity over drama is a wonderful way to live. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family XO
Funny! I was just down near Lake Orion, MI where Great Lakes Crossing mall is and found it so funny that I was now of the age that I could say..”I remember when that was built! And all of this was trees and now it is all stores”. Great video
We must be content within to find true happiness. I've owned four houses in 18 years because I always thought the next "perfect" house would make me content. Now I wish we still lived in our first house, and I am finally becoming content with who I am.
I know I personally struggle with these things daily which is another reason why I love watching your videos (as well as Diana’s). The more I listen to and focus on this type of mindset, the better I feel. Thank you both for everything you share on your channels. ❤
I have a small bungalow and over the summer months I completely decluttered the main floor. Kitchen, main bathroom, my bedroom, living room, hallway etc, etc….The feeling is life changing. I used to dread Christmas time because it felt like “just another job to add to my list”. This year, I am surprised to discover that I’m looking forward to decorating and entertaining! With a lot of my burdens lifted, my mind has space to add the Christmas season to it. I’m so happy! Can’t wait to get rid of tons of extra decorations and then start decluttering the basement in the new year. Life changing and I’m 56 years old! Thanks Dawn for all your positive motivation ❤
I love you 💕 Yesterday was my birthday and a realize that I don’t need anything, I spend the day watching Home alone with my boys it was so relaxing , finally I enjoy what really matters ❤
This was such a great video. I struggle with constantly searching for contentment but never quite hitting the mark. I've been slowly trying to declutter and finally get to a point where I can be greatful for the things I have and for it to not feel like a burden.
This is a perfect message to hear before thanksgiving and Christmas!! 😊 I have gone through this process to find contentment this year, and my life has dramatically changed. I had no idea how much time I actually had to serve others and to find meaning because I was so caught up in cleaning and organizing my house. I look forward to decluttering with you more in the new year! You’re the best, Dawn! ❤️😊
I took a box and bag of decluttered stuff to the thrift store today. And a couple of bags and a box to a local animal rescue. Watching Dawn and other declutter folks in RUclips have helped me so much. Everything I remove from my home makes me feel that much lighter. Also, congratulations on the well find raiser.
Thank you so much for your videos! Thanks to you, I've cut way back on what we own (which is still to much) and are happier for it! My husband, I, and 4 kids under 5 live in just 350 sq. ft. of space so we don't have room for a lot. My kids clothes are all in 1 space and just what we need (7 outfits per kid) and I'm down to 5 skirts and about 7 tops and that's it! I feel so motivated watching your videos and find myself cleaning the minute your video starts. Thank you again!
I’m not sure if you’re familiar with Erin (Bates) Paine, but I’d recommend looking at her RUclips channel, too - she has a video on how their family has made it work living in a small house with a large family ❤
It is so wonderful that you exceeded your goal for the Bunt Cake Book. God poured out His blessing, pressed down and over flowing., just as He said He would do. I also agree that true contentment does not come from the things we own, but out attitude towards those things. Thank you for your ability to get us thinking about what we truely want our lives to look like. Keep going and Happy Thanksgiving.
Being emotionally discontent in other areas of life, for a myriad of reasons, can get that impulse shopping, retail therapy, fantasy self stuff going too. Fixing that root goes a long way.
This was excellent! Loved that you follow TK Coleman, and showed a clip. He is awesome and gives thoughtful insightful “advice “. He is now one of the co- hosts with “The Minimalist” guys Josh and Ryan. Thank you, Dawn, for sharing that video on contentment. It brought me back to what is really important. Love all your messages. 😊
The Mall of America is actually in Bloomington, MN. I live in MN and remember going the year the Mall opened in 1992, at age 11! We took our kids a few years ago on the rides. It was fun to take them and see the joy they had at the mall. But I was SOOOO overwhelmed with all the STUFF!! I left feeling exhausted from the over stimulation.
Yup, yup. 15 when it opened. Our homeschool young people's group went there a couple times aiming for "on the cheap". There was mini golf that was reasonably inexpensive. Brought food in and people watched lol! Nice to be able to go. My family went to "Underwater World" and had passes for it. That has changed hands several times at this point. Good memories though.
I am so glad I found your channel along with several others who encourage decluttering. I donated 3 more boxes of really good stuff to a local Hospice store today! My decluttering journey isn't complete but I'm well on my way!!! Thanks, Dawn and well done, raising over $50,000 - amazing!! What a Christmas gift!
I don’t often comment on videos but this one really put the words to my inner thoughts. Thank you, Dawn, for pulling these ideas together and presenting them in a succinct way that I can remember and share with other people. Thank you also for not being afraid to show that God is a shaper and influencer in your life. It is encouraging for me as a Christian in Canada where the culture is definitely not friendly to Christians.
You are such a "big sister" role model for me, I constantly think of your wisdom and kind way of explaining things. This evening I was so tired and overwhelmed - pregnant, two other children and a house that seems to fall on top of me no matter what I try to do differently. I caught myself saying "What is WRONG with me, why can't I cope like other people?" and I heard your voice in my mind, replying "Nothing is wrong with you, it's just that you have too much inventory to manage." Now I am replaying your videos again while folding laundry.
I am pregnant and have been horribly nauseous for 6 months. Finally getting to where I can cook and do some decluttering in short spurts and it is so motivating yo hear you speak about helping others rather than focusing on stuff. I want my children to grow up with that as the norm, and with your encouragement, they will!
I love that you can talk about the mindset behind minimalism and contentment and you still get excited about gadgets. 😉 its very relatable, yet you can still teach how to avoid accumulating stuff we don't need
And here I thought it was a lot older than that - didn't know until I watched this video that it opened only 2 years before I was born, even though I grew up just a few miles from it.
The gratitude in my life mostly flows from being present and mindful. When I stop and notice my son's adorable giggles. When I enjoy the taste of a cookie. When I appreciate my husband's insights to what's upsetting me. When I wear a clothing item that's both comfortable and flattering. When I recognize that the medical advances I benefit from mean that I can relax and trust my OB to safely deliver my baby even though it might end in a second cesarean... When I look out my favourite window at a snow-covered hedge with a cardinal in it. I love helping others every day. Yes. I'm part of some Facebook communities that let me share my knowledge and pass on items I no longer need. I donate to causes that I'm passionate about. But I still think the most contentment (for me) comes from noticing things as I do them. Enjoying that coffee. Enjoying a hug. Stopping to actually listen to my toddler's explanation of his lego construction or to play a game with him. Even just appreciating my fully mobile body! (Although I guess I'm less mobile at 34 weeks pregnant!! 😆) The smell of fall. You know. Slowing down. On another note, not over-commiting is also huge for my contentment.
Marketers will do anything to part us with our hard earned money. They want it in their pockets. And they laugh at how gullible we are in their shifty ways...........
I want to expand on the "need vs. want" subject. There are wants that are purely fun. But there are different levels of need. There's the need, where it's really deeply improving your living conditions, like healthy food, exercise, safety, a home, and even time savers that let us save energy for things that matter more. An example from my life is my robot vacuum or my basic Nespresso. They don't keep me alive, and they're actually kind of luxurious, but they support my ability to cut out energy saps. I have reduced energy available to me on a daily basis because of disability. These things have added an incredible amount of value to my life. Then there are the needs where "it would be nice". I'm reaching the point where I start to ask myself whether I want something more than retirement. I didn't start saving early, but I'm still kind of young. Do I want that second pair of sneakers more than retiring before 65? Nope. Still working on remembering this in the moment, though. Thrifting (or cheap stores) make it so easy to justify a hundred tiny expenses that I WILL USE. But cumulatively, the value added is still less than saving the money and actually getting to retire. I'm trying to remember this for fast food and frozen dinners, too. They save me energy, but so does a peanut butter sandwich and a carrot, or a simplified pasta dish. I still don't forget to give myself grace when something I thought was a good use of money ends up being a "waste". It's okay. You can't predict everything!!! 😉
I'm a new stay at home mom, I have not done much but the home usuals and I'm not going to lie going to the mall and seeing all the people and Christmas decorations made me so happy! And I looove Christmas!!
For me, decluttering helped me to see, literally, what I had in my house which revealed how little I needed to buy. Not buying "things" leaves lots of money leftover for others. Thanks for another great video!
Hi Dawn, wishing you a happy Thanksgiving and thank you for all your videos. I saw this yesterday and really thought about it. There are a lot of angry people out there. It’s a lot of drama. And I think the political situation we have with angry people is people wanting drama I wish the drama could calm down!
Oh Dawn, I'm moving and so very glad you are innmy brain lol I went thru 3 kitchen cupboards and a portable island and i have 1/2 my dining room table full of donations! My goal is to move with a lot less😉
Wow, I haven't been to the mall in a while, just seeing it made me anxious🙄😬😳 Attitude of Gratitude is part of my daily life, from having indoor plumbing, fresh water, a home, etc. Gratitude can be found everywhere, people just need to recognize it and not seek it elsewhere.
Exactly! I've learned to be thankful for the little things like running water, hot showers, air conditioning and just space itself! After doing without those things for different seasons I am all the more grateful. When all the little things add up the "big" problems just aren't as big anymore.
@@elizabethbednarcik3311 I am disabled and Amazon works best for me. But after being away from malls for nearly 12 years, I've gotten use to not seeing all that shopping activity.
Good choice of background music. Listening to this video like a podcast, helped me get through errand day without buying anything that wasn't on my list. I love that whole "add purpose & adventure to naturally decrease draining drama"
This was the most meaningful post or article I’ve ever read on minimalist lifestyle. The chart and the bottom line, of contentment is priceless. That’s what I have always missed. I need help, if anyone has any insight. I have cleared out different areas of my house and given things away. Some things were very expensive, donated. I’m have a building loaded with decorative items, candle holders, lamps of all sizes, vases, canister sets, lots of glassware, and more. I spend a lot of time, changing things up and out inside the home. I have done this for years!! My closets are small,so they are packed, same with kitchen cabinets, stacked dishes. Even with all I have, almost daily, I thrift shop. My house (visually) is not cluttered, but I have extra drop leaf tables crammed into a couple of places , because they are so neat and I can’t find them anywhere again. I do want to make some changes and live with a different focus. My husband never gets rid of anything and he encourages me to store things so I won’t have to re-purchase anything again. All suggestions are appreciated, I don’t know where to begin 😢. Be blessed 💝
One of the things I would suggest, at least as a place to start, is checking out the Clutterbug channel and website - Cas is amazing, and she's great at helping people get the process started. Her goal isn't minimalism per se (or at least she says it's not), but rather about decluttering the excess down to a level that you're comfortable with and can easily manage, and organizing what's left in a way that you can maintain long term, so while the exact results are going to be highly individualized, the method can be generalized to pretty much any situation where there's clutter. Her TV show "Hot Mess House" on HGTV has a couple of seasons (the whole first season and episode 1 of season 2 are free even without an HGTV subscription/account), and one of the things she digs into is the different clients' "why's" for accumulating clutter, and uses that to help them declutter; one of the other big things she does is she has the clients decide what purpose(s) they want their space to serve, and that also helps them decide what will stay in that space and what needs to either go somewhere else in the house or be gotten rid of. I would also suggest taking the free Clutterbug quiz on the Clutterbug website (might be a good idea to have your husband take it, too, if he's willing - it wasn't until my mom and I both took it that we realized why we almost always butted heads on how things should be organized, because she's a bee and I'm a cricket), and read/watch the accompanying articles/videos that are linked in the quiz results, as well as the free ebook which also gives some ideas of how to compromise when there are multiple different organizing styles in the household (e.g. my mom's a bee but my dad's a cricket), because that can help you figure out your personal organizing style and what kinds of systems you will be able to successfully maintain long term. One note about the quiz - it is possible to be a combination of two or more different styles (personally, I always get cricket, but in reality I'm about 15/16 cricket and 3/64 ladybug, with a teeny tiny 1/64 sliver of butterfly - I have one way that I organize most things, but there are certain things I need to do different ways in order to maintain them and have them work for me), so don't get too hung up or confused if you take it more than once and get different results the second time than the first - if you do get different results, it might just mean that some spaces you tend to do one way and other spaces a different way. If you're wondering which bug Cas is, she's a ladybug (Dawn is, too). Another channel that may be helpful is Dana K White - her goal isn't specifically minimalism, either, but some of her big things are the "clutter threshold" (basically, the maximum level/amount of stuff you are able to manage in order to easily keep your house under control, which may or may not be more than the amount of stuff you would _prefer_ to have in your house), the "container concept" as she calls it (Cas also uses this same concept in "Hot Mess House" because it's applicable, but basically, the gist is that every space - room, bin, cabinet, drawer, shelf, closet, etc. - is a container, and you only keep what will fit comfortably in the container; she explains it way better than I can), as well as the Take-It-There-Now No-Mess Decluttering Method, which is helpful for lots of different situations, just a few of which are if you have limited time/energy/etc., or get distracted easily, or even simply just don't like the idea of having to deal with a pile at the end of a decluttering session, among many others. Her channel used to be called "A Slob Comes Clean", she has a website by the same name, and she has also written several books. If you haven't heard, Cas, Dawn, and Dana all worked together last year or the year before to create a decluttering course called "Take Your House Back", so they're all friends and understand that they each have different things to bring to the table, that different approaches are going to work for different people, and that it's okay that if one particular approach doesn't work for you to try a different one. Hope that helps at least a little bit with figuring out a place to start. I know how overwhelming it can be not even knowing where to start, because that was me when I started my decluttering journey.
@@SnowySpiritRuby Hello Ruby, Thank you so much for taking time to share this information and encouragement with me. I have listened to 3 of the “ Clutterbug” podcasts since this morning when I read your message. So much of what she said about her family that all got trailers for weekend getaways sounded like us! A lot of things to keep up with and take care of here. Too much! After writing my post, I realized how much time I waste on “retail therapy”!! Then, I have to move everything to make space for them! Decorating is a lot of work and a lot of constant changes. Storing things, and re-packing tubs of items. I’m pretty particular about how clean my house and patio are, which adds to constantly cleaning as well. I will definitely keep listing to learn more and how to let go. Thank you, again. Be blessed 💟
I decluttered my kitchen items a few weeks ago. This morning I went right to my extra cooking bin, pulled out all the items I need to cook tonight and tomorrow and it took 5 minutes. Last year it would have taken me 20 min and I would have made a mess looking in numerous boxes. I didn’t miss that stress today!
Thank you for your insight, Dawn! I decluttered the bottom floor of my house and sent 6 bags of clothes, several boxes of kitchen supplies etc. and donated all of this this past weekend. It felt so good to get rid of it.
I've not been in a mall in probably 10 ys. I hate shopping & do the majority of it online. I've saved so much $ not going in & looking at everything. Great video.
Getting better at seeing lots of things for what they are: future clutter! It is weird watching decluttering and hoarding shows and seeing so much of the same exact items among them that we also own or decluttered, and also now can spot when someone still has simply way too many things to manage! You have made such a profound difference, thank you and your family for opening our eyes!
When I visited The Mall of America in MN (27) years ago, I didn't purchase anything because I was too busy people-watching! Believe me, there were plenty of people to watch! I hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving! ~Margie🥧🤗🦃💐
This is the kind of content I need more of!! Love it! I am narrowing my minimalism journey to a path toward gratitude and contentment; with the goal of being able to help others.
Wow, powerful message Dawn. I continue to digest what you are saying. I have been decluttering for a while and I am beginning to lose my addiction to consumerism and yes, it does make me look around and ask myself what can I put in its place that has more meaning. I love these videos that you do. Short and sweet. Thank you
i like that you are in front of rollercoasters whilst saying we need drama and adventure! LOL. i agree that we need to find healthier drama and adventure than in shopping.
Ahh! I grew up in the Twin Cities. We usually only went to the Mall once a year to do Christmas shopping, and then when we had relatives from out of town who wanted to go. 😄 Miss those Camp Snoopy days though. Good memories!
I thought I was the only one who still called it Camp Snoopy! Happy to hear I'm not alone in that! I grew up just a few miles from there, and went to school just down the street from it, but we usually only went there when we had unlimited ride wristbands, and that was only a few times. We'd occasionally go there for something else (our eye doctor used to be in that building), but that was usually it, unless a relative took us shopping (which only happened a few times). My friend and her mom, back when we were in grade school (we were homeschooled for grade school), would always go there after dropping off the older kids at school and walk the floors for their daily exercise (most of the stores weren't open at that hour), and there were a few times where I went with them because they were days that I spent literally the entire day at their house, from the time our older siblings got dropped off at school until well into the evening. I forget how many floors it was to walk a mile, or was it how many miles per floor??🤔
That is so funny about the heating mug !!! I have been looking at those and wanting to buy one. So maybe for Christmas!! You made me realize that is a need, not a want !!!! Lol 😆 🤣 😂 thank you!!! I believe the way we find contentment is in Christ because we can be right with Him because of what He did for us on the cross!!! And yes, I agree with what you said here about helping others!!!
That warmer is not a need. Then you are stuck using the same mug all the time. I like having several favorite coffee cups to use. They reheat perfectly well in the microwave. I have an electric cup warmer that I use to set my coffee cup on to keep the contents warm. All it does is get too hot and scorches the contents at times when the level is low. I rarely use it. I actually need to donate it.
Lol! You have worked retail! You were straightening the displays. I asked my parents to take me to the Mall of America after I lived in South Korea for three years. 😆 Thank for this sorting of truth!
Oooh wow … Dawn , your videos are SO good ! Meaningful. Substantial. Thought provoking ! Yes ! A Teacher of mine used to say : Service To Man Is Service To God . Also , when we are “doing Seva” (what they say in India for selfless service ), it gets our minds off our own problems, increases our self esteem, breaks down barriers between people ( b/c in the end , itz hard to tell WHO was served more / who benefitted more … the giver, or receiver ! ). But if one just cannot do any seva at this time, just smiling at the cashier & wishing them well is great ! Thanking the bus driver. Saying hello to a senior citizen. Holding a door open. Or buying coffee for the next person in line ! And of course, being mindful of our speech, what we consume ( via TV, food , etc) & doing no harm… is a wonderful path of dharma / right action, eh ? How fun to have this field trip to the Mall ! I haven't been to a mall in ages ( by choice). But sure … they can be kinda fun. They def were in Jr High back in the 70s ! I could buy a pair of Levis for $10 with my babysitting money ! No joke ! Thx for this fun adventure ! I’ve never been to the Mall of America ! Or Minnesota. But I’ve been to Carousel Mall in Syracuse , New York . Pretty big mall. Itz okay I guess
At the end you talked about how decluttering is an important first step to helping people; one way to relate them closer is you can give you decluttered items away. The buynothing project is a great place for this you post unwanted items in the group and a neighbor who wants it picks it up! It also helps you get to know neighbors and community
Gosh that mall almost makes me feel unwell - then I realised that my minimalism is further ahead than I had thought - I find the buy, buy, buy so ugly now and really get a 'buzz' out of not buying. Phew I am so grateful I found this way to live my life. Thank you Dawn
When the MOA opened, we loved it! Having little kids in (at the time) Camp Snoopy, it was a great way to wear off energy. And I also worked at Blue Cross nearby. Sometimes for lunch we were able to run over during lunch and go on a ride, then go back to work!
Love this message - so important. And totally off topic, but I loved seeing the mall. We don't have anything like that where I live, so I found it fascinating, especially the amusement park in the middle! I'd hate to shop there, but I wouldn't mind visiting it just to see it.
Just wanted to wish You, Tom and the kiddos a very Happy Thanksgiving. And also to say I am thankful for you and all of my other RUclips "friends". Yall bring me joy every week with your videos.
wow this is the reason why i don´t go to malls and go shopping! I found minimalism in 2019 and i got rid of so much stuff and i don´t miss it!! I think consumerism is EVIL!!! And i´m cringing just thinking about all of the gift giving and spendin my money my energy my time looking for needless stuff for my family!! I wish i didn´t have to buy gifts cus i don´t need nothing i´m SO CONTENT AND HAPPY WITH ALL THAT I HAVE!!! I love your channel and everything you talk about!!
I love a good field trip! 😆 Thank you for continuing adding greater depth & meaning to our understanding of decluttering & how it benefits us. I wholeheartedly agree about not needing to journal our gratitude if our lives have purpose.
Dawn❤Thank you so much for your videos! I love the way you are so real about your life and your faith. I stumbled upon your channel about 4 months after losing my husband and have been working slowly to declutter. I have found it very cathartic and somehow helpful in the grieving process. This video about contentment was especially helpful (I even took notes! 😊) I am on a journey to discover who I am and move, with God's help, into the next adventure He has for me; not having the weight of so much stuff is huge in this process.
The amount of options in American stores is overwhelming and anxiety inducing. How many pairs of jeans can one person possibly wear? I am able to tune all the holiday ads out, fortunately. I do enjoy window shopping more than actually purchasing items.
I find that most of the time since minimalism I don't want as much unless it's my birthday but not even at Christmas do I want alot but even on my birthday most of it is what I need a little bit is what I want like a good book or two
Decluttering has lifted so much from my shoulders.I just feel I can manage a huge downsize now and look forward to the future.A huge thank you Dawn...xx
My BFF and I had a dream of going to Mall of America ever since 1992 when it opened. We achieved our dream in 2017 when there were $79 flights from Charleston, SC. I started my minimalism journey in 2015, and I only bought thing I need rather than want. I had a list of a few needs that I hadn't been able to find. Well, at MOM, I found all of my needs on sale! A pair of Skecher Go Walks Joy in black (mine had worn out), daffodil yellow bathroom rugs (I love yellow, and mine had worn out), a hooded rain jacket for travel, and some new turtle necks (I'd been to NYC and really needed layers of clothing). I probably spent about $150 with the deals I got, and I went home with a great, fun experience under my belt!
I appreciate you and the videos you share so much, Dawn. Each week, I declutter a little bit more and feel a little bit better week by week. I recently ordered the book you and Diana wrote together as a gift to myself for my 69th birthday. Diana is a great inspiration to me also. Thanks for all you do and may you and your beautiful family have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
I immediately teared up upon hearing how much was raised with the Bundt Cake Cookbook. This is amazing, Dawn! You are truly a gift to the world. Thank you for giving us this opportunity to help out. And thank you for an awesome, beautiful cookbook just before the holidays. Love, love, love!
Thank you so much for watching! I greatly appreciate it :) Here are the links mentioned in this video:
Buy the Bundt Cake Book (& Donate) here: www.theminimalmom.com/bundt-cakes
My Earrings: cli.re/Heart-Earrings (Helps an awesome cause! Use DAWN15 for 15% off anything on their site!)
My Sweater: amzn.to/3Es6tgt
TK Coleman on Instagram (great follow!): instagram.com/officialtkcoleman/
:: OTHER RECENT LINKS ::
Our Holiday Gift Guide: cli.re/gift-guide-2022
5 Days to an Organized Christmas Workshop (FREE!): cli.re/organized-christmas-signup
Decluttering by Faith Devotional: cli.re/Devotional
Hi Dawn! I guess I know I'm on the right path if just the thought of being in that mall causes me anxiety 😅🤭😆
Happy Thanksgiving 😊
Brilliant!
@@HerCupOfSIMPLE seriously, I was so ready to get out of there! 🤪
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As someone else also mentioned, it's in Bloomington, not Minneapolis - it's on the SE corner of Cedar and 494, and even of the airport, only the northern tip of it is actually inside Minneapolis city limits (the rest is technically in the county). Please edit at least the description box to say Bloomington.
I am a broken record but I have to thank Dawn again for helping me figure out simplifying our home. As the holidays are starting I am so proud of the work that I have done through these videos and the workbook because I am a different person to be around than in holidays past. I am not stressed...I am not cranky...I am not resenting my husband because there is not the stress of a cluttered home hanging over all of the joys of the season. I am proud that anyone could call and say they are ten minutes away and I am totally fine having them pop in...all because I found a video back in 2020.
I feel the same! This is so encouraging! 😊😊
SAME ! Found Dawn back in 2018 or 2019. Still my #1 fav y’tube channel ! Thanks, Dawn !
Dawn, really is an amazing person!
Way to go, Theresa!
Theresa, this is SO awesome to hear, easy to go!!!!!!!!
Some time ago, I had a eureka moment. I realised that the mall was my "free storage place of things I might need in the future that was always perfectly curated and kept up-to-date" - so I don't need to buy and store anything at home! I don't know if that makes sense but to me it does lol. I am not a mall person and rarely go there but this perspective change has helped me at times when I am tempted to buy things I don't need right now or ever! I can just look at them and enjoy them from my "storage space" and knowing they are always there hahaha
Yes!!!! Love this!!!!!
It's like Alladin's lamp, in a way 😄
I heard this once too & it resonated! Until 2020 and empty shelves :(
Now my mom and I were noticing it is the affordable options that are first off the shelves (food, clearance, baby items) as we are in these high price times...
I have lived a challenging life, raising 4 children as a single working mom (no child support), one with disabilities. I always was able to say, “don’t worry God will take care of me”. Today I am empty nested, my children are grown. During that time, I just focused on doing the best with what I could. We wanted for nothing, even though we had very little, we were creative in everything. I am so blessed, I look back with such a feeling of gratitude. I think happiness is considering the positive memories, as well as comparing to the actual rough times. We have so much to be grateful for. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.
You’re a wonderful mommy Linda! I have 4 too, all currently 10 and under. God never fails to help me 🙏🏼
So you never got married?
Yes! Yes! Yes! Helping others and replacing bad things with good is something that I've been learning over the past several years. As someone who tends to struggle with depression I have found that focusing on others and serving them makes me less depressed since I'm not focused on ME and MY PROBLEMS. If your feeling down then go out and help someone, you'll be helping both of you!
Amen!
What a beautiful suggestion ❤
Excellent comment!
Exactly this 💗 I've also finally got to a place that I can unpick and start to heal the root causes of my depression (with meds, therapy and meaningful relationships after decluttering the bad apples). I hope you can when you're ready too 🙏
@@HannahRainbow88 Thank you! I have a family history of depression (mother and her mother) and have suffered strongly from it myself in the past. My husband has really helped me heal from it and always seems to know just how to pull me out when I start to slip back into that gloomy pre-depression phase. I'm glad you are recovering! May God bless you!
I have to thank Dawn more for her relaxed (not pushy) attitude to religion. I am from Australia and not into religion but only minimalism.
Thanks to her I have started to embrace religion and started learning to learn so much. When you have not been raised with religion it can be confronting and scary.
This is so great. Go you.
You're right about being so fortunate and that everything is relative to your surroundings.
Many years ago my husband and I would take the girls to look at Christmas lights and often end up in the wealthiest areas of the city. Of course they could afford the biggest, and brightest, and most magnificent displays. But if we got caught up in the wealth and grandeur, our oldest would remind us that some people live in cardboard boxes.
Cardboard boxes is a phrase that we've used for nearly 30 years if we're being even a little envious of someone else's possessions. It emphasizes all the wonderful things we do have and really puts things in perspective.
Thank you for the trip to the mall because I haven't been to a mall in years! Before 1991, I used to go to the mall for entertainment (movies), lunch & clothes. I would spend the entire day at the mall until my feet couldn't carry me another step. In 1992, I decided to get out of debt & I determined not to go to a mall nor shop for anything but groceries for a year. Well, that broke the shopping habit & I've never gone back to it. Best of all I have never gone back into debt again.
I host a frugal Facebook group and recently one of our new members asked for suggestions on equipment that actually helps save money while performing food prep or cooking. I thought to myself " I do not have any suggestions . The reason - I am old fashioned.
No airfryer, blender, instantapot , kitchen aid, breadmaker, pressure cooker not even a toaster in my kitchen . I simply use a spoon, bowl or fork , oven , microwave, crockpot or I do have a convection oven. And, I am happy. Once in a while I use my soup tool to blend soup but more often I eat thick, rustic Soups. And I am happy making simple meals with simple equipment. No criticism for others but I know what works for me. Thank you Dawn
Hi Dawn! I just want to let you know how much I enjoy your videos and what a change they are making in my life. Today I watched your video on contentment and have to say that I really feel content. My husband of 52 years died very unexpectedly just 4 months ago. Since then I have come to realize that "things" no longer matter to me. Relationships do! I am slowly going through my house getting rid of things that no longer have meaning to me and it feels so good. God has richly blessed me and I pray that I can simplify my life and live a life honoring Him and hopefully be a positive influence on others. I regret that it has taken losing my husband, who I loved dearly, to realize that family and friends are what's important in life. Thank you Dawn for all you do. You are a wonderful example of God's love.
I lost my husband /best friend of 52 years too..
Decluttering helped the first few months. So terribly sorry for your loss.
Oh Peggy, I am so sorry to hear about your husband. Thank you for your kind words, it means more than you know! ❤️
Sorry for your recent loss...ㅜㅜ
May God watch over you and bring you peace. I am praying for you.
I am thankful for you this season , Dawn! I walked through the entire "At Home' store the other day and bought NOTHING! I appreciated the items in the store but realized I didn't need more to 'manage'. It was a weird feeling but a personal victory! Happy Thanksgiving everyone! 😀
Yes! Congratulations, that is indeed a victory. And I am celebrating a similar "win" myself! I went to a thrift shop and an antique store last weekend (to donate/sell some items I was decluttering). I looked around, took in the sights, and bought nothing! Wow!
Good for you! Marketing to consumers is geared to be beautiful and in-your-face. THEY are out to make money and have us part with our HARD EARNED MONEY when we don't need what they are marketing. It's all a game, and I am glad YOU won! "I can admire without having to acquire". Rick Warren, Pastor of Saddleback Church in California, author of "The Purpose Driven Life".
The other side of decluttering is blessing others with the things we are not using. I love to imagine someone finding exactly what they need for pennies on the dollar out of the things I have let go of. The money I spent on them was gone when I bought them. The space that I get back and the time I no longer need to spend caring for excess stuff is the blessing I get from decluttering.
I love this. I was just telling my sister the other day that I am content. Everyone is always looking for something bigger and better. Why can’t we just be happy for what we have. I recently bought a condo by myself and have a great job I love.
I asked someone once where their favorite place was that they had visited and they said "A little place called contentment" I just loved that.
Dawn's Drama - Bundt cakes that don't release like they should! ❤😂🎂
Lol, right!?!! Adeline said why don’t you just give up on that Milky Way cake mom and I said I can’t! It’s for Dorothy!!!! 😉😂
@@TheMinimalMom Remember to grease and flour the pan! :)
Wow, Minimal Mum corresponding from deep behind enemy lines from the heart of consumerism - the mall! 😂 Awesome public vlogging skills, brave lady!
Thanks for your thoughts on contentment, they make a lot of sense.
I think decluttering reminds us of how much we have, which is part of gratitude. It's so easy otherwise to think of what we don't have and want/need.
I’m decluttering my house, but go shopping without buying all kind of things gives me contentment as well. Whenever I see something I like I straightaway think about what I already have. I’m rather poor and live in a small apartment, but still I’m content with the things that I do have. And yes I do take care of my 86 years old neighbour and I used to take care of my parents before they died and that certainly gives contentment as well, but I think people shouldn’t always want to have what other people might have.
First, have you found the table cloth?
Second, happy Thanksgiving! We are grateful for you and the insights and meaningful conversations you lead. ❤️
No she hasnt found it yet!
I wonder if something happened to it by the kids and they are scared to admit it so they hid it.
Ooooh NO still didnt find ? What on Earth ? Maybe fell behind the washing machine ??
Back of the linen closet ??
@@girlonaswing9439 my kids actually did that, the boys were fighting and one hit the other with the steam mop and broke it, they both hid it in the attic!! $100 Steam mop!!
Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom with us. The way you speak shows kindness and compassion to those of us who are just beginning to walk the path of minimalism. You have a gift and you are a gift. Thank you!
Thank you, that means more than you know!!! ❤
We are doing our upgrade shopping now (Black Friday) but before we went we did a list of what we NEEDED.we also made a bag with the old item your getting, to donate. It went great! Cheap prices, donations, and a real idea of what we needed so we can stay focused and not get distracted by sales!
@Ron and Patti Telfer could be that the current item is no longer serving them? Needs to be bigger because family grew. Or smaller because too heavy and being older/less mobile/injured.
Or even simpler things such as my bathrobe being too short and not comfortable in general, therefore it is not performing it's function for wear outside of home (hospital, sauna etc) and it's not getting used. So I can donate it to ensure it is not decaying in my closet and buy something that functions as it should.
We’ll we replace because it’s worn out (socks underwear no wires in bra lol) or has stains. Also sometimes you want to treat yourself with better shoes but your cheap so this is the time when your comfortable getting it lol
Dawn, I want to thank you so much for all your videos and motivation! I came across your channel around August. I have started the decluttering process. It’s just me and my husband in our home now. I started in my closet, then my dresser, my side of the bathroom and our joint shelves in the master bathroom. My husband noticed, but I think he was doubtful I’d stick with it. I’m guilty of being a little passive aggressive and thinking if he won’t help with the house, why should I do it ALL. So I have let the clutter in our home office pile up. All that to say I have decluttered the master bathroom, everything of mine in our bedroom, the home office, and guest bathroom. The kitchen in next on the list. But I’m excited to tell you that my husband has asked me to help him with his closet, I did and only did as much as he was ready, then last night he told me that he has noticed how much I’ve done! He wanted to know what changed, I told him I have come to realize I don’t have the bandwidth to manage all that is in our house. And the never ending to do list to try. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Wow Rhonda!!!! This is SO awesome to hear! I’m really proud of you!!! ❤️
Have him watch Dawn's videos with you. She is pleasant to listen to and easy on the eyes, so he should not balk at doing so. This will also help him, IMO.
Some great ah-ha concepts: The 'stuff' is only relevant to the lower levels of the contentment scale and helping others automatically makes us grateful and things like IG scrolling and gossip just melt away.
This may be deeper than you like to go, I'm going to share anyway. When I lived with the ego in control there was always separateness, impulsivity and drama. Along with wanting to win at everything even if it caused me to go broke, stuff my house with junk or my belly, ruin a relationship, act childish and on and on. When I switched over and allowed my true-self to lead I was more focused on connections. I was able to recognize the simple things in life as miracles and that excites me. I am able to view obstacles or stumbling blocks with curiosity and acceptance, while focusing on one inspired action at a time. Amazement, acceptance, and curiosity over drama is a wonderful way to live. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family XO
WOW this is deep well Done for waking up.
Funny! I was just down near Lake Orion, MI where Great Lakes Crossing mall is and found it so funny that I was now of the age that I could say..”I remember when that was built! And all of this was trees and now it is all stores”. Great video
I just want to thank you for the time and effort you put into your videos!! You make everything so logical and it really does help 😄.
Thank you, I really appreciate that!❤
I heard this said and I love it - if you compare your situation to others, compare to those who lived 100 years ago.
We must be content within to find true happiness. I've owned four houses in 18 years because I always thought the next "perfect" house would make me content. Now I wish we still lived in our first house, and I am finally becoming content with who I am.
I know I personally struggle with these things daily which is another reason why I love watching your videos (as well as Diana’s). The more I listen to and focus on this type of mindset, the better I feel. Thank you both for everything you share on your channels. ❤
I have a small bungalow and over the summer months I completely decluttered the main floor. Kitchen, main bathroom, my bedroom, living room, hallway etc, etc….The feeling is life changing. I used to dread Christmas time because it felt like “just another job to add to my list”. This year, I am surprised to discover that I’m looking forward to decorating and entertaining! With a lot of my burdens lifted, my mind has space to add the Christmas season to it. I’m so happy! Can’t wait to get rid of tons of extra decorations and then start decluttering the basement in the new year. Life changing and I’m 56 years old! Thanks Dawn for all your positive motivation ❤
I love you 💕 Yesterday was my birthday and a realize that I don’t need anything, I spend the day watching Home alone with my boys it was so relaxing , finally I enjoy what really matters ❤
Ok, Dawn, We are all waiting, hoping that you have found grandma’s red tablecloth! Please let us know! Maybe a 1 minute video???
This was such a great video. I struggle with constantly searching for contentment but never quite hitting the mark. I've been slowly trying to declutter and finally get to a point where I can be greatful for the things I have and for it to not feel like a burden.
Our hearts are restless until they rest in God.
This is a perfect message to hear before thanksgiving and Christmas!! 😊 I have gone through this process to find contentment this year, and my life has dramatically changed. I had no idea how much time I actually had to serve others and to find meaning because I was so caught up in cleaning and organizing my house. I look forward to decluttering with you more in the new year! You’re the best, Dawn! ❤️😊
Not going near a mall until after Christmas. It was stressful enough shopping for Thanksgiving.
I took a box and bag of decluttered stuff to the thrift store today. And a couple of bags and a box to a local animal rescue. Watching Dawn and other declutter folks in RUclips have helped me so much. Everything I remove from my home makes me feel that much lighter. Also, congratulations on the well find raiser.
Thank you so much for your videos! Thanks to you, I've cut way back on what we own (which is still to much) and are happier for it! My husband, I, and 4 kids under 5 live in just 350 sq. ft. of space so we don't have room for a lot. My kids clothes are all in 1 space and just what we need (7 outfits per kid) and I'm down to 5 skirts and about 7 tops and that's it! I feel so motivated watching your videos and find myself cleaning the minute your video starts. Thank you again!
That is amaaaazing ! You should be very proud ! Go, YOU ! And enjoy the fruits of your labor ! Liz
I’m not sure if you’re familiar with Erin (Bates) Paine, but I’d recommend looking at her RUclips channel, too - she has a video on how their family has made it work living in a small house with a large family ❤
@@lauralogan3046 thank you!
So happy Dorothy is getting her well.
It is so wonderful that you exceeded your goal for the Bunt Cake Book. God poured out His blessing, pressed down and over flowing., just as He said He would do. I also agree that true contentment does not come from the things we own, but out attitude towards those things. Thank you for your ability to get us thinking about what we truely want our lives to look like. Keep going and Happy Thanksgiving.
Being emotionally discontent in other areas of life, for a myriad of reasons, can get that impulse shopping, retail therapy, fantasy self stuff going too. Fixing that root goes a long way.
This was excellent! Loved that you follow TK Coleman, and showed a clip. He is awesome and gives thoughtful insightful “advice “. He is now one of the co- hosts with “The Minimalist” guys Josh and Ryan. Thank you, Dawn, for sharing that video on contentment. It brought me back to what is really important. Love all your messages. 😊
The Mall of America is actually in Bloomington, MN. I live in MN and remember going the year the Mall opened in 1992, at age 11!
We took our kids a few years ago on the rides. It was fun to take them and see the joy they had at the mall. But I was SOOOO overwhelmed with all the STUFF!! I left feeling exhausted from the over stimulation.
I was just about to comment that! I used to go to school just down the street from it, and grew up just a few miles from there.
Yup, yup. 15 when it opened. Our homeschool young people's group went there a couple times aiming for "on the cheap". There was mini golf that was reasonably inexpensive. Brought food in and people watched lol! Nice to be able to go.
My family went to "Underwater World" and had passes for it. That has changed hands several times at this point. Good memories though.
@@living4mylord I remember Underwater World! My sister's class or something had a field trip there one year, and my mom and I got to tag along.
Thanks for a glimpse of the mall. I always wondered what it looked like. Just a bigger mall.
I am so glad I found your channel along with several others who encourage decluttering. I donated 3 more boxes of really good stuff to a local Hospice store today! My decluttering journey isn't complete but I'm well on my way!!! Thanks, Dawn and well done, raising over $50,000 - amazing!! What a Christmas gift!
Thank you. You're an inspiration. 'Watching from the Philippines. Blessing in Christ!
I don’t often comment on videos but this one really put the words to my inner thoughts. Thank you, Dawn, for pulling these ideas together and presenting them in a succinct way that I can remember and share with other people. Thank you also for not being afraid to show that God is a shaper and influencer in your life. It is encouraging for me as a Christian in Canada where the culture is definitely not friendly to Christians.
Lived in Duluth…. Went there multiple times… road that ride. 😊
You are such a "big sister" role model for me, I constantly think of your wisdom and kind way of explaining things. This evening I was so tired and overwhelmed - pregnant, two other children and a house that seems to fall on top of me no matter what I try to do differently. I caught myself saying "What is WRONG with me, why can't I cope like other people?" and I heard your voice in my mind, replying "Nothing is wrong with you, it's just that you have too much inventory to manage."
Now I am replaying your videos again while folding laundry.
I am pregnant and have been horribly nauseous for 6 months. Finally getting to where I can cook and do some decluttering in short spurts and it is so motivating yo hear you speak about helping others rather than focusing on stuff. I want my children to grow up with that as the norm, and with your encouragement, they will!
I love that you can talk about the mindset behind minimalism and contentment and you still get excited about gadgets. 😉 its very relatable, yet you can still teach how to avoid accumulating stuff we don't need
When you mentioned the total raised so far, I got chills and teary eyed! What a wonderful blessing you and this community is!!!
I was in one of the marching bands at the grand opening! And I just realised it's been 30 years since it opened. I still think of it as being new!
And here I thought it was a lot older than that - didn't know until I watched this video that it opened only 2 years before I was born, even though I grew up just a few miles from it.
The gratitude in my life mostly flows from being present and mindful. When I stop and notice my son's adorable giggles. When I enjoy the taste of a cookie. When I appreciate my husband's insights to what's upsetting me. When I wear a clothing item that's both comfortable and flattering. When I recognize that the medical advances I benefit from mean that I can relax and trust my OB to safely deliver my baby even though it might end in a second cesarean... When I look out my favourite window at a snow-covered hedge with a cardinal in it.
I love helping others every day. Yes. I'm part of some Facebook communities that let me share my knowledge and pass on items I no longer need. I donate to causes that I'm passionate about.
But I still think the most contentment (for me) comes from noticing things as I do them. Enjoying that coffee. Enjoying a hug. Stopping to actually listen to my toddler's explanation of his lego construction or to play a game with him. Even just appreciating my fully mobile body! (Although I guess I'm less mobile at 34 weeks pregnant!! 😆) The smell of fall.
You know. Slowing down.
On another note, not over-commiting is also huge for my contentment.
The sign that said - Give Love - omg it was meaning the stuff!!! Very eye opening to the marketing. Very shocking when u think about it
Marketers will do anything to part us with our hard earned money. They want it in their pockets. And they laugh at how gullible we are in their shifty ways...........
The older I got the more content I became with less. We DO NOT need all our stuff! I love to Give. Happy Thanksgiving.
Thank you for living your vocation and sharing the joy that comes from it.
I want to expand on the "need vs. want" subject. There are wants that are purely fun. But there are different levels of need.
There's the need, where it's really deeply improving your living conditions, like healthy food, exercise, safety, a home, and even time savers that let us save energy for things that matter more. An example from my life is my robot vacuum or my basic Nespresso. They don't keep me alive, and they're actually kind of luxurious, but they support my ability to cut out energy saps. I have reduced energy available to me on a daily basis because of disability. These things have added an incredible amount of value to my life.
Then there are the needs where "it would be nice". I'm reaching the point where I start to ask myself whether I want something more than retirement. I didn't start saving early, but I'm still kind of young. Do I want that second pair of sneakers more than retiring before 65? Nope. Still working on remembering this in the moment, though. Thrifting (or cheap stores) make it so easy to justify a hundred tiny expenses that I WILL USE. But cumulatively, the value added is still less than saving the money and actually getting to retire. I'm trying to remember this for fast food and frozen dinners, too. They save me energy, but so does a peanut butter sandwich and a carrot, or a simplified pasta dish.
I still don't forget to give myself grace when something I thought was a good use of money ends up being a "waste". It's okay. You can't predict everything!!! 😉
I'm a new stay at home mom, I have not done much but the home usuals and I'm not going to lie going to the mall and seeing all the people and Christmas decorations made me so happy! And I looove Christmas!!
For me, decluttering helped me to see, literally, what I had in my house which revealed how little I needed to buy. Not buying "things" leaves lots of money leftover for others. Thanks for another great video!
Hi Dawn, wishing you a happy Thanksgiving and thank you for all your videos.
I saw this yesterday and really thought about it. There are a lot of angry people out there. It’s a lot of drama. And I think the political situation we have with angry people is people wanting drama
I wish the drama could calm down!
Oh Dawn, I'm moving and so very glad you are innmy brain lol
I went thru 3 kitchen cupboards and a portable island and i have 1/2 my dining room table full of donations!
My goal is to move with a lot less😉
Wow, I haven't been to the mall in a while, just seeing it made me anxious🙄😬😳 Attitude of Gratitude is part of my daily life, from having indoor plumbing, fresh water, a home, etc. Gratitude can be found everywhere, people just need to recognize it and not seek it elsewhere.
Exactly! I've learned to be thankful for the little things like running water, hot showers, air conditioning and just space itself! After doing without those things for different seasons I am all the more grateful. When all the little things add up the "big" problems just aren't as big anymore.
I was wondering if people even go to malls anymore!
@@elizabethbednarcik3311 I am disabled and Amazon works best for me. But after being away from malls for nearly 12 years, I've gotten use to not seeing all that shopping activity.
Good choice of background music. Listening to this video like a podcast, helped me get through errand day without buying anything that wasn't on my list. I love that whole "add purpose & adventure to naturally decrease draining drama"
This was the most meaningful post or article I’ve ever read on minimalist lifestyle. The chart and the bottom line, of contentment is priceless. That’s what I have always missed. I need help, if anyone has any insight.
I have cleared out different areas of my house and given things away. Some things were very expensive, donated. I’m have a building loaded with decorative items, candle holders, lamps of all sizes, vases, canister sets, lots of glassware, and more. I spend a lot of time, changing things up and out inside the home. I have done this for years!!
My closets are small,so they are packed, same with kitchen cabinets, stacked dishes.
Even with all I have, almost daily, I thrift shop. My house (visually) is not cluttered, but I have extra drop leaf tables crammed into a couple of places , because they are so neat and I can’t find them anywhere again.
I do want to make some changes and live with a different focus. My husband never gets rid of anything and he encourages me to store things so I won’t have to re-purchase anything again.
All suggestions are appreciated, I don’t know where to begin 😢.
Be blessed 💝
One of the things I would suggest, at least as a place to start, is checking out the Clutterbug channel and website - Cas is amazing, and she's great at helping people get the process started. Her goal isn't minimalism per se (or at least she says it's not), but rather about decluttering the excess down to a level that you're comfortable with and can easily manage, and organizing what's left in a way that you can maintain long term, so while the exact results are going to be highly individualized, the method can be generalized to pretty much any situation where there's clutter. Her TV show "Hot Mess House" on HGTV has a couple of seasons (the whole first season and episode 1 of season 2 are free even without an HGTV subscription/account), and one of the things she digs into is the different clients' "why's" for accumulating clutter, and uses that to help them declutter; one of the other big things she does is she has the clients decide what purpose(s) they want their space to serve, and that also helps them decide what will stay in that space and what needs to either go somewhere else in the house or be gotten rid of. I would also suggest taking the free Clutterbug quiz on the Clutterbug website (might be a good idea to have your husband take it, too, if he's willing - it wasn't until my mom and I both took it that we realized why we almost always butted heads on how things should be organized, because she's a bee and I'm a cricket), and read/watch the accompanying articles/videos that are linked in the quiz results, as well as the free ebook which also gives some ideas of how to compromise when there are multiple different organizing styles in the household (e.g. my mom's a bee but my dad's a cricket), because that can help you figure out your personal organizing style and what kinds of systems you will be able to successfully maintain long term. One note about the quiz - it is possible to be a combination of two or more different styles (personally, I always get cricket, but in reality I'm about 15/16 cricket and 3/64 ladybug, with a teeny tiny 1/64 sliver of butterfly - I have one way that I organize most things, but there are certain things I need to do different ways in order to maintain them and have them work for me), so don't get too hung up or confused if you take it more than once and get different results the second time than the first - if you do get different results, it might just mean that some spaces you tend to do one way and other spaces a different way. If you're wondering which bug Cas is, she's a ladybug (Dawn is, too).
Another channel that may be helpful is Dana K White - her goal isn't specifically minimalism, either, but some of her big things are the "clutter threshold" (basically, the maximum level/amount of stuff you are able to manage in order to easily keep your house under control, which may or may not be more than the amount of stuff you would _prefer_ to have in your house), the "container concept" as she calls it (Cas also uses this same concept in "Hot Mess House" because it's applicable, but basically, the gist is that every space - room, bin, cabinet, drawer, shelf, closet, etc. - is a container, and you only keep what will fit comfortably in the container; she explains it way better than I can), as well as the Take-It-There-Now No-Mess Decluttering Method, which is helpful for lots of different situations, just a few of which are if you have limited time/energy/etc., or get distracted easily, or even simply just don't like the idea of having to deal with a pile at the end of a decluttering session, among many others. Her channel used to be called "A Slob Comes Clean", she has a website by the same name, and she has also written several books.
If you haven't heard, Cas, Dawn, and Dana all worked together last year or the year before to create a decluttering course called "Take Your House Back", so they're all friends and understand that they each have different things to bring to the table, that different approaches are going to work for different people, and that it's okay that if one particular approach doesn't work for you to try a different one.
Hope that helps at least a little bit with figuring out a place to start. I know how overwhelming it can be not even knowing where to start, because that was me when I started my decluttering journey.
@@SnowySpiritRuby Hello Ruby,
Thank you so much for taking time to share this information and encouragement with me. I have listened to 3 of the “ Clutterbug” podcasts since this morning when I read your message. So much of what she said about her family that all got trailers for weekend getaways sounded like us!
A lot of things to keep up with and take care of here. Too much! After writing my post, I realized how much time I waste on “retail therapy”!! Then, I have to move everything to make space for them! Decorating is a lot of work and a lot of constant changes. Storing things, and re-packing tubs of items. I’m pretty particular about how clean my house and patio are, which adds to constantly cleaning as well. I will definitely keep listing to learn more and how to let go.
Thank you, again.
Be blessed 💟
@@truthseeker9075 You're very welcome. I'm glad it was helpful.
I decluttered my kitchen items a few weeks ago. This morning I went right to my extra cooking bin, pulled out all the items I need to cook tonight and tomorrow and it took 5 minutes. Last year it would have taken me 20 min and I would have made a mess looking in numerous boxes. I didn’t miss that stress today!
Thank you for your insight, Dawn! I decluttered the bottom floor of my house and sent 6 bags of clothes, several boxes of kitchen supplies etc. and donated all of this this past weekend. It felt so good to get rid of it.
Yes! I have NEVER missed anything I have donated. But the "light" feeling it provides is priceless!
I've not been in a mall in probably 10 ys. I hate shopping & do the majority of it online. I've saved so much $ not going in & looking at everything. Great video.
Getting better at seeing lots of things for what they are: future clutter! It is weird watching decluttering and hoarding shows and seeing so much of the same exact items among them that we also own or decluttered, and also now can spot when someone still has simply way too many things to manage! You have made such a profound difference, thank you and your family for opening our eyes!
So glad to hear the goal was met plus so much more! This started the season of caring for me.❤
When I visited The Mall of America in MN (27) years ago, I didn't purchase anything because I was too busy people-watching! Believe me, there were plenty of people to watch! I hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving! ~Margie🥧🤗🦃💐
So true! It’s a fascinating place!!!!
@@TheMinimalMom It sure is! I think the mall hadn't been open very long when we visited.
This is the kind of content I need more of!! Love it! I am narrowing my minimalism journey to a path toward gratitude and contentment; with the goal of being able to help others.
Wow, powerful message Dawn. I continue to digest what you are saying. I have been decluttering for a while and I am beginning to lose my addiction to consumerism and yes, it does make me look around and ask myself what can I put in its place that has more meaning. I love these videos that you do. Short and sweet. Thank you
Commenting because I want more people to see this video!!! ❤
i like that you are in front of rollercoasters whilst saying we need drama and adventure! LOL. i agree that we need to find healthier drama and adventure than in shopping.
I am new to the journey, but am already finding the benefits. Thank you for your kindness.
Ahh! I grew up in the Twin Cities. We usually only went to the Mall once a year to do Christmas shopping, and then when we had relatives from out of town who wanted to go. 😄 Miss those Camp Snoopy days though. Good memories!
I thought I was the only one who still called it Camp Snoopy! Happy to hear I'm not alone in that! I grew up just a few miles from there, and went to school just down the street from it, but we usually only went there when we had unlimited ride wristbands, and that was only a few times. We'd occasionally go there for something else (our eye doctor used to be in that building), but that was usually it, unless a relative took us shopping (which only happened a few times). My friend and her mom, back when we were in grade school (we were homeschooled for grade school), would always go there after dropping off the older kids at school and walk the floors for their daily exercise (most of the stores weren't open at that hour), and there were a few times where I went with them because they were days that I spent literally the entire day at their house, from the time our older siblings got dropped off at school until well into the evening. I forget how many floors it was to walk a mile, or was it how many miles per floor??🤔
That is so funny about the heating mug !!! I have been looking at those and wanting to buy one. So maybe for Christmas!! You made me realize that is a need, not a want !!!! Lol 😆 🤣 😂 thank you!!!
I believe the way we find contentment is in Christ because we can be right with Him because of what He did for us on the cross!!!
And yes, I agree with what you said here about helping others!!!
That warmer is not a need. Then you are stuck using the same mug all the time. I like having several favorite coffee cups to use. They reheat perfectly well in the microwave. I have an electric cup warmer that I use to set my coffee cup on to keep the contents warm. All it does is get too hot and scorches the contents at times when the level is low. I rarely use it. I actually need to donate it.
He is so right! A lot of shopping is a result of boredom.
Lol! You have worked retail! You were straightening the displays.
I asked my parents to take me to the Mall of America after I lived in South Korea for three years. 😆
Thank for this sorting of truth!
Wow! You raised so much!! 🎉🎉❤😊
Oooh wow … Dawn , your videos are SO good ! Meaningful. Substantial. Thought provoking ! Yes ! A Teacher of mine used to say : Service To Man Is Service To God . Also , when we are “doing Seva” (what they say in India for selfless service ), it gets our minds off our own problems, increases our self esteem, breaks down barriers between people ( b/c in the end , itz hard to tell WHO was served more / who benefitted more … the giver, or receiver ! ). But if one just cannot do any seva at this time, just smiling at the cashier & wishing them well is great ! Thanking the bus driver. Saying hello to a senior citizen. Holding a door open. Or buying coffee for the next person in line ! And of course, being mindful of our speech, what we consume ( via TV, food , etc) & doing no harm… is a wonderful path of dharma / right action, eh ? How fun to have this field trip to the Mall ! I haven't been to a mall in ages ( by choice). But sure … they can be kinda fun. They def were in Jr High back in the 70s ! I could buy a pair of Levis for $10 with my babysitting money ! No joke ! Thx for this fun adventure ! I’ve never been to the Mall of America ! Or Minnesota. But I’ve been to Carousel Mall in Syracuse , New York . Pretty big mall. Itz okay I guess
That drama statement is perfect! Exactly right. Thanks for bringing it forward.
At the end you talked about how decluttering is an important first step to helping people; one way to relate them closer is you can give you decluttered items away. The buynothing project is a great place for this you post unwanted items in the group and a neighbor who wants it picks it up! It also helps you get to know neighbors and community
Gosh that mall almost makes me feel unwell - then I realised that my minimalism is further ahead than I had thought - I find the buy, buy, buy so ugly now and really get a 'buzz' out of not buying. Phew I am so grateful I found this way to live my life. Thank you Dawn
When the MOA opened, we loved it! Having little kids in (at the time) Camp Snoopy, it was a great way to wear off energy. And I also worked at Blue Cross nearby. Sometimes for lunch we were able to run over during lunch and go on a ride, then go back to work!
Love this message - so important. And totally off topic, but I loved seeing the mall. We don't have anything like that where I live, so I found it fascinating, especially the amusement park in the middle! I'd hate to shop there, but I wouldn't mind visiting it just to see it.
Congratulations on 5 years of this channel! I wish I had found you sooner! But thankful I have begun to declutter!
Just wanted to wish You, Tom and the kiddos a very Happy Thanksgiving. And also to say I am thankful for you and all of my other RUclips "friends". Yall bring me joy every week with your videos.
wow this is the reason why i don´t go to malls and go shopping! I found minimalism in 2019 and i got rid of so much stuff and i don´t miss it!! I think consumerism is EVIL!!! And i´m cringing just thinking about all of the gift giving and spendin my money my energy my time looking for needless stuff for my family!! I wish i didn´t have to buy gifts cus i don´t need nothing i´m SO CONTENT AND HAPPY WITH ALL THAT I HAVE!!! I love your channel and everything you talk about!!
Great job filming this! ❤️
I love a good field trip! 😆 Thank you for continuing adding greater depth & meaning to our understanding of decluttering & how it benefits us. I wholeheartedly agree about not needing to journal our gratitude if our lives have purpose.
Dawn❤Thank you so much for your videos! I love the way you are so real about your life and your faith. I stumbled upon your channel about 4 months after losing my husband and have been working slowly to declutter. I have found it very cathartic and somehow helpful in the grieving process. This video about contentment was especially helpful (I even took notes! 😊) I am on a journey to discover who I am and move, with God's help, into the next adventure He has for me; not having the weight of so much stuff is huge in this process.
The amount of options in American stores is overwhelming and anxiety inducing. How many pairs of jeans can one person possibly wear? I am able to tune all the holiday ads out, fortunately. I do enjoy window shopping more than actually purchasing items.
Thankyou So Much
I find that most of the time since minimalism I don't want as much unless it's my birthday but not even at Christmas do I want alot but even on my birthday most of it is what I need a little bit is what I want like a good book or two
So much truth & wisdom!!!❤
Decluttering has lifted so much from my shoulders.I just feel I can manage a huge downsize now and look forward to the future.A huge thank you Dawn...xx
My BFF and I had a dream of going to Mall of America ever since 1992 when it opened. We achieved our dream in 2017 when there were $79 flights from Charleston, SC. I started my minimalism journey in 2015, and I only bought thing I need rather than want. I had a list of a few needs that I hadn't been able to find. Well, at MOM, I found all of my needs on sale! A pair of Skecher Go Walks Joy in black (mine had worn out), daffodil yellow bathroom rugs (I love yellow, and mine had worn out), a hooded rain jacket for travel, and some new turtle necks (I'd been to NYC and really needed layers of clothing). I probably spent about $150 with the deals I got, and I went home with a great, fun experience under my belt!
I think this is my favorite one yet!
I appreciate you and the videos you share so much, Dawn. Each week, I declutter a little bit more and feel a little bit better week by week. I recently ordered the book you and Diana wrote together as a gift to myself for my 69th birthday. Diana is a great inspiration to me also. Thanks for all you do and may you and your beautiful family have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
I immediately teared up upon hearing how much was raised with the Bundt Cake Cookbook. This is amazing, Dawn! You are truly a gift to the world. Thank you for giving us this opportunity to help out. And thank you for an awesome, beautiful cookbook just before the holidays. Love, love, love!