I stopped shopping for things 15 years years ago. Currently, I live with two pairs of jeans and 5 shirts/blouses. I spend more time growing some organic fruits and vegetables in the backyard and cooking fresh meals every single day. We also spend money buying organic food. I do yoga regularly. We pray and learn scriptures daily. We also do not eat fast food or splurge on fancy restaurants. Goal is to stay away from medicines, doctors and hospitals. I am 62 and my husband is 69 and praying for our health and everyone's.
I am staying up until 3am watching your videos like a crash course! I love you!!! I have 5 kids 2yrs to 12 yrs, homeschool, help run a business and everything you say is exactly how i feel. So blessed, abundance of everything and no time to stop and smell the roses or enjoy my kids. I have been praying for the Lord to shift my mindset and free myself from this bad routine of 'organising' when it should be 'reducing' and you have been a tremendous help. The guilt of moving things on has been replaced by the desire for mental and spatial freedom. Thank you so much for rescuing another mom from the drudgery and helping me get back in touch with family life. I've removed bags and bags of stuff in the last 2 days and am on a roll. Feeling excited and elated. Thank you. xx
Isn't she awesome l truly believe this is her gift the way she comes across really has changed my life and I always pray for her family she's someone you just feel close to because she's so real and genuine God does that he gives you the heart to change people's lives for the better you just have to be about your Father's business some people don't comply They certainly have humble hearts it's so refreshing
Yesterday I found your videos! I could not stop watching them! While I was supposed to be taking a shower I decluttered the guest bathroom and stayed up past midnight! Today I decluttered 5 cupboards in the kitchen! I have a full donation box and hubby just took out my full trash bag! This feels great! I’ve been so overwhelmed! We moved into a smaller house and I thought with selling, donating and getting rid of so much before moving it would be better. But no! It’s been over 2 years in this house and I’ve felt overwhelmed the entire time and it’s a mess and I just can’t! Thank you for your videos!
I stumbled across this same video 2yrs ago after watching Marie Kondo on Netflix- and we’ve been enjoying the perks ever since. I just wished I found it when my kids were younger. I have a 16yr old and 21 yr old now (she’s only home during college breaks).
1. Relatable 2. You're just precious 3. Patience & understanding 4. Natural leadership 5. Beautiful soul *I love watching you, hearing your natural compassion, and watching your relatable videos because you are so honest and raw. Just lovely ❣️🖤👏💗
In one of your other videos, you can definitely see that your husband is house proud and appreciates an orderly clean house. Great Job. House looks great!
I wanted my children to appreciate what they have and learn to take care of their things and it has been so freeing. I cared about their things more than they did.
You are the minimalist RUclipsr I’ve been waiting my whole life for!😂! Every word is so relatable it’s incredible. So obsessed with your videos, and your eye opening advice. Love love love!!
I love this channel too! I've been trying to simplify for years and always give up in the middle or stuff comes creeping back into the house... First on my to do list is simplifying our family meal plan!
I was firstly inspired by Joshua Becker and began to minimalise, but just went so far. Then I began to watch Marie and folded everything tidily, but haven’t kept it up. Now I’m watching Minimal Mum and feel inspired to get back to it and go further. Thank you Dawn I love your videos.
I don't have kids, but I can sense how helpful your story is to those who do. It is related with so much heart-felt sincerity and compassion - really, really good video.
I know this video is a year old, but I am just watching it for the first time. The point where you were talking about how overwhelmed you felt when your kids were little and you how you didn't feel like you were enjoying it...and then felt guilty for that. That is so where I'm at right now and you saying that made me wanna cry! It's always good knowing that someone else has felt that too. Thank you!
TODAY after about a year, the inside of my house is 95% done. This is probably the closest to perfection on our definition of minimalism we will ever get. THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR EVERYTHING. YOU ARE A GIFT. Thank you for being a blessing in my life and my family's life!!!!! 💥💟💟💟💟💟💟💟
This is me! This is me! This is me! Thank you 😊 I don’t have children and I currently live on my own. I’m not sure I want to be a full on minimalist but I feel totally overwhelmed by clutter, to the extent where I cannot find stuff so I just go and buy it again or change projects to avoid feeling overwhelmed. I also want to change my priorities and direction in life.
Yes, it is gratifying to even get a drawer minimized. Whenever I feel overwhelmed with clutter in my house I look in my most recently revised area and feel a lot calmer and a sense of accomplishment. It's a process. :)
This is so true! When I can´t handle a big decluttering job one day, I pick a spot in my house that has bothered me recently. It can be as small as a cluttered end table or a single drawer, but clearing it up makes a huge difference in my day.
I am 63 and I am trying to "take the blinders off." In other words, some stuff has been there so long, and I thought I needed it for so long, that it does not even cross my mind to get rid of it. For example, I only use tablecloths about once a year, on a holiday. So why do I have so many? I got them on sale, they are pretty, they fit in the box they are in, they are not bothering anyone, etc. But I simply don't need them and don't use all of them. I want to dig deep and really "see" the stuff, and let it go if I am not using it, whether it is good stuff or not. I don't plan on dying for a long time, but when I do, I do not want to leave my children with a big mess to go thru.
petmom ful as a child who has already lost both parents, it can be such a daunting task cleaning and sorting after they have passed on. Do consider eliminating Aprox 40-60% of your belongings and donate them to a woman's domestic violence shelter. Your heart will spill over with joy knowing you have passed on a new item for someone less fortunate. 😊
@@missyelle2749 That is good advice. My daughter and I have been reading Marie Kondo's books and reading about minimalism. We are getting rid of a lot. It is funny how you can do it over and over, and get rid of more each time. I am also making my grown kids take ALL their stuff. They all have houses now so they can take their things and make their own decisions on what to keep. It is part of being an adult. lol When my mom passed, my oldest sister took charge of everything and took what she wanted. She would not let anyone else make decisions. So she did most of it. I can only imagine how hard it must be to go thru an entire house. My mom had downsized quite a bit already, as dad was long ago dead. I wish you all the best.
we are newish empty nesters and want to downsize in two years. We are starting now. I take a pic of anything that might be sentimental or useful and send it to my kids and siblings. In 24 hours it's gone if they don't respond. Mostly no one wants our old tablecloths, dishes and knickknacks.
@@paulalerose1546 Wow, that is a really great idea. It is easier to let things go when you know they are, "going to a good home." And some things seem to mean more to different members of the family. My dad was a mean guy, but we did have a good memory of him playing a ukulele while we did the dishes, and we sang in harmony. I play the ukulele so I wanted it. My sister had it laying in her basement broken, and wanted to get rid of it. She gave it it me and I got it repaired. I treasure it. It meant nothing to her.
@@petmomful2260 Marie Kondo would say if it brings you joy it isn't clutter (or something like that). I cherish a silver serving dish belonging to a deceased aunt and silver candlesticks belonging to my grandmother. My mom has a boatload of silver and I've told her and my sibs that I only want one item. That will be three silver pieces from different eras in a modern small home. I feel it will be an interesting decor item but not overwhelming. And I love it all. I can toss a lot of the other stuff to make room.
I no longer fear the doorbell and unexpected guests! I’ve had people come over and not once have I done any last minute clean up. I love it. I also feel so much lighter in my place. It took over a year to complete and it’s worth it.
I'm right there. Looking around the house thinking I can't do this and I have already done a lot of purging. I felt I was stuck. Thank you for the encouragement. I can do it.
This is so wonderful. I feel as though I’m treading water constantly. I’m drowning in clutter and chores and constant decision making. I am so glad my sister in law shared your channel with me!
I like how you talk about the process. Then you are motivated to not go backwards. I've said it before, but your videos are great for people no matter what season of life they are in.
After watching your kitchen declutter video, I went through my kitchen and thinned out so much. Next I cleaned out and organized my downstairs pantry/storage area and dropped off a trunkful of small appliances, storage containers, etc. So liberating! Thank you for the inspiration. I can’t wait to continue through my house and regain my peace!
This was exactly what I needed to see that it takes time. It’s so overwhelming I have 4 kids and one is under 1 it’s a lot to do each day. I feel so swamped by house work and laundry and never get to enjoy my day.
omg I think I finally found someone who understands me. I just want to have a good cry because you hit so many unnerving point. I am feeling all of this at this moment and there are days I just want to throw everything out my apt. because no one wants to or are not capable enough to deal with their stuff so it all falls on me
I understand the feeling of just wishing your kids were older. Mine are almost 2 and 5 and I've just embarrassed the fact that we are in a season of having a messy "life". After watching your videos now, I have reduced a lot of our things and I feel so much happier
OMG. I’m sooooo happy I came across you today. I’m a 49 yr old mom of 4 n everything you said was me 10 yrs ago and sadly still is today. 2 Kids going off to college now n me now back to working full time n I’m still overwhelmed by the STUFF!!!! I’m done!! I want it all gone!!! This is the motivation I’ve needed. Bless you!!! 🥰
Your story is exactly like mine. I have 4 kids under 8 and totally overwhelmed by stuff. I know I'm incredibly blessed, yet feel so burdened. I start working on minimizing, then life happens and it gets tossed aside. Thank you for your channel.
Oh my gosh hide and seek yes... I've been embarrassed before... The worst was when I had a friend over and I lost my phone and she was trying to help me find it, looking in the couch and cabinets as my toddler hid it somewhere... My goal now is to be unashamed and even proud of what the insides of cabinets and closets look like and even proud! I love your idea of having the cabinets and such only half full, it really makes everything easier to find and just looks great! Just found your channel yesterday, subscribed with notifications, and declutterred and cleaned the heck out of my linen cabinet today! Thanks for the motivation 😁. Now I can't wait for people to open up that closet lol
Your home is lovely. Growing up in a military family, we moved a lot and so didn't collect stuff. Our home was always clean, organized, simple. I married a man raised totally opposite. About two months ago, he saw the light, and helped me begin discarding stuff. Our goal is to have 70% gone by year's end. We are so much more at peace and joyful. It's never too late to begin improving our lives. Thank you for sharing yours.
I agree that you'll see benefits over you start, far before you "finish". We don't do all the things and we're really just a few months "in" to this way of thinking, but we have been streamlining our toys, clothes, and kitchen items. It's awesome. We have given several families big bags of clothes and my older kids, who do their own laundry, actually really like having fewer clothes to deal with. I chip away at a drawer, a bin, a shelf most days and take a break when I need a week off. My husband, who is a great guy, has *without me asking* filled up bags of his own stuff to give away and throw away. That's a new thing for him, and I take that change as him seeing how good it feels to have less to manage! It's awesome to see how these small changes add up for all of us!
I just found your videos about 3 weeks ago and am hooked. I started minimizing and I love it. I started with my daughters' room and they were happy and excited to see their room clutter-free. I already did my kitchen and am working around my house. Thank you so much for what you do! God bless!
First, you are such a dear and such a cutie. I have been watching you for a few months now and love everything I see. I appreciate your rawness and how sincere you are. I've been working at turtle's pace for about a year now on simplifying THINGS in my home (and mind). I'm so encouraged by you and your videos. This note alone says a lot - I never leave a comment. Thank you for what you are doing and how you are doing it.
You know what’s so great, I’m a minimalist by nature. Even when I was young I realized I didn’t like having a lot of stuff. When the minimalist movement took off, I just thought it was silly to watch videos on it. But then we cut cable and I needed stuff to watch and happened upon this. This week I cleared all the plug-ins off my countertops. I thought my husband would hate that, but he’s so stinking happy. I keep getting inspired with every video!
Thank you!❤ After stumbling through some decluttering youtuber channels over the past several months, I have found yours to be one of the very best!! I am so glad that you have put your experiences for all to see! So encouraged that I don't have to declutter my whole house in a weekend crash session. I am taking small steps to letting things go!! It has been so incredibly rewarding to "build my decluttering muscles"!😊 You are auch a blessing!
This is literally me!!!!!! I have never been able to articulate it but oh gosh, THIS IS ME! I definitely need to look into minimalism- I drowning in clothes and toys and dishes! DROWNING!
Thank you for the way you encourage others without judgement. Listening to you makes me feel supported in stepping into making choices that are going to take me out of my comfort zone.
Does anyone remember how HAPPY!!! we were when we were fresh out of college and enjoying our first apartment? IT WAS PRECISELY BECAUSE WE! HAD! NO! "STUFF".....I swear all my misery began when I was making more money and able to BUY!! MORE!! Totally unnecessary household ITEMS to the point that I became completely miserable and never wanted to come home anymore after work (avoiding my house 😩)..... minimalist lifestyle is the KEY to a better life. THANK! God! I found this life saving channel!
"Time is going to pass anyway"... I too am in same exhausted defeated feeling..but having been ur subscriber & today watching this is surely timely, much needed motivation..God bless u all
I have to laugh because "minimalism" used to be called just good housekeeping. Back before cheap goods from China, people couldn't afford tons of stuff, so it was unusual to have piles of anything around the house. Generally speaking, only determined hoarders had that problem. I remember how much I had to pay for the cheapest dress at the local low-end clothing store - $40 bucks, in 1973! My husband made $10,000/year. I made $1.47/hour as a book keeper at a department store. $40 was a lot of money! It would take me more than 27 hours of work to pay for that one "cheap" dress. Now extrapolate that to everything you needed for a household, and you see how people just didn't accumulate that much stuff.
I think that the fact that you can afford something and make the choice to not have it is minimalism , because you choose to have stuffs you use and that make you happy!
I agree. When I was an exchange student in Argentina, living with an upper middle class family, there was no clutter, and no waste. Leftovers from the big meal eaten in the middle of the day were finished that night for dinner. Shopping was not a way to pass the time, it was done when you needed something. Their contentment surprised me - as long as they had clothes, food, a clean home, etc. - in other words, as long as their needs were met - they were happy. They spent a lot of time together, watching TV while chatting, playing cards, cooking/cleaning together, and I admired their contentment. It's like in the U.S. we buy different sets of dishes, cushions, sheets, and other decor to match each season just because we CAN. I haven't in the past because I have nowhere to store all that stuff, but now I'm reminded what true contentment really is.
You're quite possibly my spirit animal. You just described my story. 3 years ago there were no resources for minimalist FAMILIES. I'm so glad to see this addition. Thanks for all you do.
We have lots of knives and forks but they are kept in the storeroom for when we entertain. We keep a single set out for my husband and I and 4 spoons for my one year old twins. It is fabulous that we are physically not able to make a huge mess in the kitchen or create a huge pile of dishes
YES, I completely agree! Even if we dirtied EVERY dish in our kitchen, I know that it can be cleaned up in a matter of minutes not hours like in the past!!
I could store more than half of my dishes and silverware and not need them at all-- till company came over--but then they will still have to go somewhere. Seems logical to keep" like with like" rather than have same items in different places. I'm open to how you do this, please share. Thanks.
I stuck to my goal this week of decluttering and reorganizing at least 5 to 15 minutes a day! It makes me happy and feels great. I also know that if I keep going with these little steps I will continually move ahead. Who knows where I will be a year from now. A thrilling thought. The little dosages of decluttering are manageable even on busy days. Decluttering and reorganizing can be emotionally draining since you deal with old stuff and have to make constant decisions. Here the daily small doses of doing it are a great concept!
Just discovered your channel and loving it. You are spot on with saying you will see the effects of decluttering straight away even from starting small. My first step was to declutter my kitchen drawers that contained cutlery and utensils and as I'm in the kitchen daily I had to open those drawers many times and the feeling of seeing less in those drawers was so fulfilling. The feeling was so great that I continued decluttering other areas from there and then it almost became addictive as the feeling that comes with having less is so great.
Love the video. It's been the way I've been feeling for years bc I started not to care either! All the kids were in school now, so I started my minimalist journey. I started in the kitchen bc all guests and it's the most used room. I have been posting the items online and making extra money also. Why didn't I start years before was my regret. It will take time to go through the house. I do see that trickle down effect you talk about. It has made such a difference. I cook with such ease. I meal plan. I work a full time job and it makes it refreshing to come home to. I make breakfast, lunch and dinner everyday. I will give myself one day to pick up lunch, to pick up breakfast and one to pick up dinner. This way it gives me permission to take a break without eating out like we used to. I will take more fruit for breakfast and a coffee from home. Leftovers or a sandwich for lunch. Fresh dinners for the family to eat. My bank account shows it too! I've been spending so much less.
Yay! This is all SO awesome and inspiring! I love the giving yourself one day off for each meal as well...I know this will inspire others, thank YOU for sharing!!!! :)
I know this video is a little older now, but for me, minimalism gives me more time with my family and to do what I want to do. And you are so right in all your videos Dawn, about minimalism being about more than making it easier to manage our stuff - it permeates our finances, how we spend our time, perhaps even our faith life. Part of that for me, is not using social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, twitter, etc. I have so much more free time than most of my peers and other SAHMs, and I frankly get so much more done, and I truly believe it is because my time isn't being wasted with those websites, nor is my mental and emotional energy being sapped up by them. Me being more productive at home also impacts my husband, because if I have time to do a small house repair or errands because I am not bogged down with tons of other things, it means he can be more present in the evenings and weekends with our family. God bless you and your family for sharing your ways.
I just came across your channel and I find you to be so transparent and absolutely adorable ❤️ All people ever want is TRUTH AND HONESTY and you give it to your viewers in spades....KUDOS young lady! Patty sending you blessings from Colorado 🙏❤️🙏
You described my life exactly in the first 5 minutes! I added homeschooling to that life and felt SO lost. My kids are teens now, and Im committed to minimalism. Thank you for your honest videos- and I love it when your twin sister visits too!
My friend introduced me to Go Clean Co and I was looking for videos on RUclips when I found one of yours. It was comparing different cleaning methods. After that one came another. I heard you talk about “reducing inventory” and about how things pull you down emotionally (that is what I learned from it anyway). I began to declutter with a whole new mindset. Whenever I get rid of something that has made me make a mental to-do list, it was so relieving! I know it won’t happen overnight, but It’s coming along. It doesn’t’ take as much energy to clean and I’ve even made my bed nearly every morning (before I didn’t care). I’ve even shared your channel with my friend who inadvertently started me on this journey.
I'm with you on the "washing and using the same things over and over again." I realized i only need those things and i have been living for a while just using those same things over and over. That is why i got rid of the stuff we didn't need. I am proud to say that we actually have four huge rooms in our house that could actually be condensed completely into one room. One room has just a play tunnel and judo mats, 2nd room just has a set of toddler beds, nothing else, 3rd room has a small couch and mounted tv and small basket of toys and small play kitchen(was able to downsize three of the four sizes of the huge kitchen set) 4 th room has the bigger couch and a few picture frames on the wall. Literally could combine all those things into one room. Basically could downsize our house in half easily by square footage. I have no decorations to dust or dvds cause we do Netflix and Amazon prime. I wouldn't change my house/life style for anything. It took me 2 to 3 yrs to get rid of everything because we moved 4 times in a couple yrs so each time we got rid of more stuff. My husband and i have less stuff now total than BEFORE we had our three kids!!! And, we even had an extra room in our old apartment just for our junk!! And that was before kids too. We laugh about it now cause we literally just packed it full of stuff and never used any of it. We wasted so much money on a 2 bedroom apartment all in the name of stuff. Let that be something to take into consideration my fellow inspiring minimalist!💙
I'm single, childless and therein immediately way removed from your demographic but!... I clicked in to listen whilst I was washing up, and having quietly gone through my own 1-year stop and start 'de-clutter / minimalism' experience, found myself applauding your down-to-earth, indeed frank, approach. Very nicely done 👏
I love the positive attitude you have about being a minimalist. I also have children, and husband im a homemaker. I always felt the same way you did ,and even though I felt that way I still cleaned the house ,and believe that every day brings me one step closer to becoming a minimalist as I'm donating ,and tossing items not needed no more as well. I enjoyed watching your channel.
you know I minimilised 5 years ago when we sold up everything and went to travel in our caravan full time. We were on the road 8 months then found out we were expecting baby number 4. We have been back living in a house now 4 years and I never thought minimising would ever be overwhelming for me. I can so relate when you spoke about when you look at all the things you have to tidy up and the amount of clothes you have to wash each day. It is definately a motivation breaker. So grateful for coming across your channel. Thankyou
Traveling full time, that sounds awesome!! And thank you! It is quite amazing ALL of the things that four kids come with these days, isn't it!?! Blessings on your journey, I'll look forward to keeping in touch!
Yes it certainly is amazing what four kids come with, hahahaha! Thankyou for your blessings. I watched your Laundry Video and Minmizing the kids wardrobe video aswell. Lessened their wardrobe a few months ago to the nuber 10. Number 5 will be the number for us for sure and certainly basket shopping is on the list. :). Have a fabulous weekend :)
wow, now that is a good statement......"Time is going to pass anyway". True, time is marching on, so be encouraged......I am preaching to myself right now.....thanks
Thank you so much for sharing your minimalist journey, ups and downs. Realistic views, dramatic and actual views for every day life of a minimal family. 👪 Have been watching you for couple of years now and at first, I thought how 🤔 can this possible be. There is no way I could do this. My husband has been telling me for years, this is what he would love for our home to look like. Yet, I was the one dealing with the mess or as you say "managing it". So I told my husband, you are dreaming. We are a family of 5 and 3 kids that I keep up with. OH, I was so frustrated with my hubby when he would tell me the same thing, "What did you do all day" 😠 now he calls it, "You goofing 🤪 off again. 😩 After, my Pastor did a Powerful Sermon on Clutter and Mess, is interrupting your spiritual life. 🙏 🤯🤯🤯 I took that message personally, NOW...I am on the 🏁 of minimalist my home. Watching 👀 your videos again and the content is hitting me just as the sermon. 🙌
I got emotional listening to your experience because that was me as well when I had my child in this huge house that took all my time to keep clean and tidy. I felt guilty and miserable. Thank you for shining a light on this issue that many women have. ❤️
I was also searching for an example of minimalism for a family, we have 3 kids 3 to 8. Thank you for being there ! You are such an inspiration. Since watching your videos we downsized the kids toys, family clothes and the kids books. This is wonderful, I would never go back. We already feel the difference in our moods and that affects all the family. Now when we need to clean our family room it takes literally 5 min! With this video I know it will probably take a year to do the whole house and I feel fine with that. Thanks again ! I'll keep watching !
@ abt 8:00 she said it took her approx a Year.. Good..bc i get overwhelmed just looking at this TEENY 720 sq ft. OLD 1942 "house" crammed with stuff as there is nowhere to put it.. i just get defeated & cry 😢
"So... What did you do all day...?" LOL! I get that line sooo often! I need less stuff and more motivation to live my life to the fullest with my family. Thank you for your videos.
I've watched more of your current videos and thought I'd take a gander at this one. So authentic, vulnerable and downright funny! I appreciate your journey and encouragement as each person endeavors to live more simply!
I’m so here.. I’m very much in this season where I feel like my days are ONLY trying to catch up on chores and tidying and while life passes me by and shoeing my kids. And I’m just missing their early years :(
Watched your videos for aprox. six months now and can't understand how I missed this one! So interesting and you really tell from your heart, one can feel that. Thank you! Another good thing is that you show your children, both boys and girls, that an adult (here mother) can have children and still have time for some career, and most importantly, how to acknowledge your feelings back then and taking an adult responsibility and change this to the better! They will know that this can be done. So inspiring!
Thank you for using the term simple living l think that has helped me a lot. What works best for you personally you always say 😊 My house is not big I saw people decluttering their kitchen on U Tube I have three cabinets to put things in and they had nine or more for me I do have stuff setting out there's really nowhere to put it. But decluttering inside of the cabinets I just smile when I open them I'm still working on it there's 7 people in my house so there's a lot of stuff not many closets in This Old House that I'm blessed to have I'll just keep working thank you Dawn You ARE about your Father's business. What is it Mother Teresa said Not all of us can do great things but we can do small things with great love. I believe you are Dawn
Gosh, I relate so well to you! Last year when I set out on this journey i felt like I was treading water only the water were laundry, dishes, cleaning and a mom with a bad attitude while doing it. I had started to give up and we never seemed to have any time. You are very inspiring, truly!
Thank you Alex and thank YOU for ALL of the encouragement along the way, it means more than you know!!!! (and love following you on instagram, you house is👌, love your style!!!)
I'm not a mom but I am a researcher turned lawyer so you can only IMAGINE the paperwork I have stored. I REALLY appreciated this video because I so relate to the sense of oppression that comes with being surrounded by clutter and stuff and feeling like you're beholden to it instead of IT serving YOU. Thanks so much for making this video and being so genuine. That's so much nicer than the hyper-polished youtube "personalities" that dominate this site. Subscribed.
I loved your analogy about the struggling racers! I am a homeschooling mom of 4 (read: my kids are home all day!). We don't buy or own a lot of toys (especially not noisy or "big" toys), yet I feel anxiety and unrest when my kids leave clutter on the floor and surfaces. We recently sold our 1000sqft home and are moving into 2600sqft of finished space! But I don't plan on filling up our new space with new stuff, or even all of our old stuff. When we moved three years ago, our 3 kids did not complain once of boredom when all of their toys except Duplo blocks and stuffed animals were packed in boxes for 2 months. After watching one of your videos before Christmas, I talked to my children: "You only play with your blocks, dress-up clothes, and drawing supplies." They agreed to eliminate a lot of toys, and a zoo membership is their promised non-toy Christmas gift. Since packing up the toys they were hesitant to sell, and decluttering for selling our house, my husband has appreciated the calm and space that "less" has brought to our lives. I want my kids to understand true "need" versus "want," to appreciate time and relationships instead of possessions, and to prefer the possessions that bring us together (bikes, camping gear, and Lego, for instance). I would love to hear more about how minimalism has extended to your kids' lives. I don't know if my kids are quite convinced, but it has been a hectic few months of renovations and decluttering.
I’m not sure if you mentioned this in this video or not, but I wanted to share. On one of your videos that I watched awhile ago, you said that you wanted a home where someone could drop by and you only had to pick up in 5-10 mins to feel like your home was clean for them to come. Yesterday my husband had an issue with the lawnmower and his parents needed to come by to help. They are 30 mins away. In about 15 mins, we have the kitchen and living room picked up and I even had time to vacuum the stairs and clean the mirror in the bathroom 🤣 All I could think of was what you had said and it felt AMAZING to finally be in that position without running around until they got there and still having stuff I wanted to clean. You’ve helped me so much and I can’t thank you enough. Yesterday showed me that this is the journey I want to be on even though I’ve been trying for years. 💜💜💜
I am a mum and manage all the household chores, and always find that the chores seem to get on top of me. At the end of everyday the house is completely messy and stuff is everywhere. I am naturally a messy person and have never been able to keep the house organised no matter how hard I tried. Your videos have given me a new outlook on life! Time to start the decluttering process.
This is the Dave Ramsey of motherhood...once you are fed up you will begin making changes...and one baby step at a time you will get healthy routines made.
Thank you so much for opening my eyes! You are amazing! You have inspired me to look at all of my belongings and decide to keep only what I use. I’m almost done with my kitchen and I’m so excited at my results! Thank you, thank you! You have made such an impact in my life! May the Lord bless you!
Hi Dawn! I love your videos! They've been so inspiring! We're beginning our minimalism journey and I'm loving it so far. We're downsizing to a 1300 sq ft house (from 1900). We have 5 children. I'm selling everything (well almost) and paying off debt. I just feel the shackles and burdens of stuff and debt melting away. It feels so good and I'm able to focus on what's really important and essential: relationships, experiences, love, etc. We still have a long way to go, but I see the vision of it now and I don't want to stop! Thanks for sharing your journey with us!
I just wanted to say a big thankyou . My husband and I have 5 children and a dog , I've always just been getting by. A year and half ago my husband died age 40 and with your help, clutterbug lady and Swedish death cleaning has changed me so much I'm actually smiling while doing chores around the house . Thanks again Susan Sherwood UK 💋
Couldn't agree more! I started with clutterbug about a year ago and don't get me wrong I LOVE Her, but haven't been quite able to go fully in and implement a lot of it, and I truly believe it's bc this right here is the piece I've been missing! You Dawn was my Missing Link😂 I've been off and on steadily the last month trying and just end up back at square one like usual and then.... I found you the other day and Ahh-Haaa!!!! Cannot Express how Much you are Truly a Blessing!! I can watch and watch organization, decluttering, different method video's all day and don't stop to do anything bc I was still searching! Kicking myself in the bud for not clicking when I had the chance a year ago!!!! God Bless You! And I'm Sooo Sorry for Your Loss! One day at a time and slowly with each go through and change, WE WILL GET THERE!!! I too got my kid Everything and regret it sooo sooo much now!! Looking forward to being able to put on your videos again 2mro and work, work, work!!!
This video really speaks to me. I too have been struggling with too much stuff in the house. My process to pare down is taking a long time but it is true that you feel a sense of accomplishment at every small step. Thanks for posting!
Yep! It takes a very long time - but don't try to take short-cuts. It took me a year and a half to get most of the decluttering done - another year to finish, including all the house projects that needed to get done too. Once your house is decluttered the construction projects are easier to do.
I can so resonate with everything thing you are saying. I started with the Kon Mari method, but I wanted to go further. I kept looking for videos on minimalism for families and there weren't many choices. So glad to find you! Good to see a minimalist family besides the ones where everyone lives in a van and the lifestyle is so hard to relate to as an average american family. I still need to tackle the toy clutter so thanks for the inspiration!
I am a mother of four. I work and I am trying to finish my bachelors. I realized cleaning my kid's rooms that the rooms were packed of stuff. Why do we have so much. I recently started with my own room, yet I felt exhausted and overwhelmed. So thank you for your advice to just take it one step at a time, one day at a time. I will continue on this journey.
Oh yes! Your comment on missing your career, and peoples thoughts on enjoying the kiddos now...but you simply NOT, resonated. This is me right now. Thank you. I needed an answer for living intentionally and not.the drowning feeling with the learning curve of adding a second baby two months ago on top of bookkeeping for my hubbies business. You are an answer to my prayers. Literally!
LOVE THIS!!! This is where I am now. Husband works long hours and isn't on the same page and I'm a teacher on summer break with a toddler and feel defeated since there's stuff every where and she's getting into everything! All I do is move a stack of clutter from the dinning room table to another table, which she can then reach later on by climbing on the couch, etc... You're real, and honest and trying to use nap time to go through things but also exercise, shower and watch a non singing cartoon video! Will not feel defeated if all I can do is a couple of cabinets in a week! :)
Hey Dawn!!! I am a new subscriber to your channel and loving it! I am always encouraged and inspired by your videos!! One word that I heard you say quite a few times in this video was ORDER! I too am a christian and I have a relationship with Jesus and that word order is on my mind a lot lately! Especially what has happened in our world the last 2 years! There needs to be more order in homes, families, marriages, relationships, etc! When we can have order in our daily lives, what a difference it can be!! Its actually bringing life back into us again! In a way we need to ask ourselves how are we stewarding our things, time, money? And in the Bible it talks about being good stewards of what God has entrusted to us! For me this was a bit of a conviction but im so glad it happened! Thank you so much for opening my eyes to minimalism and just living life simply!!
One closet/drawer at a time is definetely a good way to go! :) About two months ago, in my summer vacation, I did an intense speed declutter of all the rooms. I live in an apartment (kitchen, bathroom, hallway and combined dining/living/sleeping space), but it was almost scary how much I had managed to pack into the closets - things I was mostly keeping out of guilt or 'what if'. I managed to purge a lot, and I invested in a few new pieces of furniture with more optimal function. The feeling was amazing! I have nothing whatsoever under my bed, I have a place where I can sit in the morning and get ready, and my space feels more functional and calm. And it is so much faster and easier to tidy and clean. Since then, I have had an unintentional break. I think the main thing is, it is difficult to get the things out of my house. I live in the city, I don't have a car, and there are no recycling stations nearby. I have to walk pretty far to the nearest charity shop, and without a car, it is not much I can carry at once. I can only stockpile so much at a time in the kitchen, before it starts to get in the way. The first sweep was 'easy', because so much of it was junk. I think the next one will be a bit harder. Either way, I think it is time to get back at it, and do a more detailed round. I will take this video as my sign. :)
Great video! I began a minimalist lifestyle two years ago. It took me about a year to declutter also. It makes life so much easier! I can't imagine going back!
Love your channel so much! During quarantine I have decluttered every room and closet in my house. I also did the meal planning with my husband. Life feels radically freeing. Living simply is truly the best!
I’ve been watching so many of your videos and it has really helped me to get to the next level in decluttering our home. I had done a couple layers and gotten stuck. Now I’m making progress again and it has freed up s9 much time and mental space to focus on what I really want to - homeschooling my kids! Thank you for sharing your journey!
started to see it years too late. when the children were small it was normal to buy more and more. we were raised that way by our parents and environment. 3 years ago I started to see it differently. we work for things that you do not need, which will cause a burden on your shoulders. because you always have to do something with it. I have now started to live smaller in terms of home. But with a much larger garden that I have always wanted.
I have been watching your Video’s for some time now... and somehow just came upon this one. It is so good, thank you for sharing. I realized in the last couple years How Much Stuff I have accumulated. And yes, overwhelmed, embarrassed if someone should drop in unannounced... And there is just me. My house can be totally cleaned and in a couple days you’d think a big whirlwind had just come through. I finally got started though, and just finishing up my 2nd 30/31 Day Minimalist Challenge. It is a process, and I’m seeing the Sentimental Stuff is what gets at me... but I’ll get there... A little at a time... thank you.
I feel exactly the way you felt before you started this journey, I hope ai can get to where you are Dawn, thank you so much for all your videos, I love your channel, it inspires me every time, blessings to you and your family
Your home is so clean and beautiful! It just looks so peaceful and relaxing; I wish I would have grown up in a house that looked like this. Great job !!
Thank I would have loved to hear this when my kids were young; but it is helping now as I want to live a simple life with more time my husband and I to spend more time traveling and starting towards a more meaningful retirement 😊❤️
To help stop the flow of toys coming in, you have to get grandparents on board. If they keep bringing cool stuff in, it will become a battle.. You've done a great job.
You were right about just starting. I was overwhelmed with the idea of clearing out with the KonMari method. Taking everything out (like clothes) and sorting and tossing. It was another major project. But instead I did what you had said in another video...like peeling an onion layer by layer....(something to that effect). So I started with the master bedroom. First it was a drawer...then another and before I knew I was clearing the top of the chest of drawers and a bookcase. I then rearranged an artwork to another wall. I did as much clearing that was enough for that day. But I felt refreshed about the whole room and the atmosphere. Even my husband who did not helped, said the room felt lighter. So after clearing the master bedroom I'm inspired to tackle other clutter problem areas throughout my home...the hallway bookcase, the coat closet, …..as when I have time and energy. Layer by layer....thanks for a great video!!!
I'm exactly where you were at. Thank you for this. I used to be minimalist by nature. I left everything go over the last year and now I'm on my journey back. This helped me so much to feel motivated.
What I've noticed about us is, so many things because just part of the scene. We overlook so much stuff just because [whatever it is] it has sat in that spot for years. Suddenly one day, it dawns on me....why are we keeping this ?! So much is there just because it has been for so long. The more that leaves out house, the better we feel. The more we lighten the load, again, the better we feel. We can breathe a sigh of relief. I don't think we'll go all out minimal....but, boy, we've got too much stuff & it feels wonderful to let a lot of it go.
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I stopped shopping for things 15 years years ago. Currently, I live with two pairs of jeans and 5 shirts/blouses. I spend more time growing some organic fruits and vegetables in the backyard and cooking fresh meals every single day. We also spend money buying organic food. I do yoga regularly. We pray and learn scriptures daily. We also do not eat fast food or splurge on fancy restaurants. Goal is to stay away from medicines, doctors and hospitals. I am 62 and my husband is 69 and praying for our health and everyone's.
👌life goals 🙌 😍 Congratulations 👏
I am staying up until 3am watching your videos like a crash course! I love you!!! I have 5 kids 2yrs to 12 yrs, homeschool, help run a business and everything you say is exactly how i feel. So blessed, abundance of everything and no time to stop and smell the roses or enjoy my kids. I have been praying for the Lord to shift my mindset and free myself from this bad routine of 'organising' when it should be 'reducing' and you have been a tremendous help. The guilt of moving things on has been replaced by the desire for mental and spatial freedom. Thank you so much for rescuing another mom from the drudgery and helping me get back in touch with family life. I've removed bags and bags of stuff in the last 2 days and am on a roll. Feeling excited and elated. Thank you. xx
SO glad to hear this Dorothy!! Thank YOU!!! :)
Isn't she awesome l truly believe this is her gift the way she comes across really has changed my life and I always pray for her family she's someone you just feel close to because she's so real and genuine God does that he gives you the heart to change people's lives for the better you just have to be about your Father's business some people don't comply
They certainly
have humble hearts it's so refreshing
I’m just checking this out for the first time 🙂 I’m a mom of four. Age 7-13 💙
Yeppp...currently 2:11am here in Australia 🇦🇺 😂 and I’m binge watching Dawn 👏🏼
And literally removed bags and bags in the last two days also! 🙌🏼👏🏼🎆 I am exhausted but so grateful for this guidance. I’m so happy.
Yesterday I found your videos! I could not stop watching them! While I was supposed to be taking a shower I decluttered the guest bathroom and stayed up past midnight! Today I decluttered 5 cupboards in the kitchen! I have a full donation box and hubby just took out my full trash bag! This feels great! I’ve been so overwhelmed! We moved into a smaller house and I thought with selling, donating and getting rid of so much before moving it would be better. But no! It’s been over 2 years in this house and I’ve felt overwhelmed the entire time and it’s a mess and I just can’t! Thank you for your videos!
I stumbled across this same video 2yrs ago after watching Marie Kondo on Netflix- and we’ve been enjoying the perks ever since. I just wished I found it when my kids were younger. I have a 16yr old and 21 yr old now (she’s only home during college breaks).
1. Relatable
2. You're just precious
3. Patience & understanding
4. Natural leadership
5. Beautiful soul
*I love watching you, hearing your natural compassion, and watching your relatable videos because you are so honest and raw.
Just lovely ❣️🖤👏💗
In one of your other videos, you can definitely see that your husband is house proud and appreciates an orderly clean house. Great Job. House looks great!
I wanted my children to appreciate what they have and learn to take care of their things and it has been so freeing. I cared about their things more than they did.
You are the minimalist RUclipsr I’ve been waiting my whole life for!😂! Every word is so relatable it’s incredible. So obsessed with your videos, and your eye opening advice. Love love love!!
Wow, THANK YOU! That means more than you know!!
I completely agree!!! I'm so glad that I found you!!!
I love this channel too! I've been trying to simplify for years and always give up in the middle or stuff comes creeping back into the house... First on my to do list is simplifying our family meal plan!
tfcstevi
I was firstly inspired by Joshua Becker and began to minimalise, but just went so far.
Then I began to watch Marie and folded everything tidily, but haven’t kept it up.
Now I’m watching Minimal Mum and feel inspired to get back to it and go further.
Thank you Dawn I love your videos.
I love you!!! You motivate me so much. "Time will pass anyway" So true about so many things.
I totally feel exactly the way you do!!!!
Love watching these old videos and following how you’ve grown and progressed... and Oh! look at that; you’re talking about The Amazing Race 🤗
I'm 62...raised 5 kids and can so relate to the points you make!!! A clean house is a peaceful home! Thank you!
I don't have kids, but I can sense how helpful your story is to those who do. It is related with so much heart-felt sincerity and compassion - really, really good video.
Thank you!!!
I don't have kids at home anymore, but I do have stuff! lol
I know this video is a year old, but I am just watching it for the first time. The point where you were talking about how overwhelmed you felt when your kids were little and you how you didn't feel like you were enjoying it...and then felt guilty for that. That is so where I'm at right now and you saying that made me wanna cry! It's always good knowing that someone else has felt that too. Thank you!
TODAY after about a year, the inside of my house is 95% done. This is probably the closest to perfection on our definition of minimalism we will ever get. THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR EVERYTHING. YOU ARE A GIFT. Thank you for being a blessing in my life and my family's life!!!!! 💥💟💟💟💟💟💟💟
This is me! This is me! This is me! Thank you 😊 I don’t have children and I currently live on my own. I’m not sure I want to be a full on minimalist but I feel totally overwhelmed by clutter, to the extent where I cannot find stuff so I just go and buy it again or change projects to avoid feeling overwhelmed. I also want to change my priorities and direction in life.
Yes, it is gratifying to even get a drawer minimized. Whenever I feel overwhelmed with clutter in my house I look in my most recently revised area and feel a lot calmer and a sense of accomplishment. It's a process. :)
This is a GREAT idea!!
This is so true! When I can´t handle a big decluttering job one day, I pick a spot in my house that has bothered me recently. It can be as small as a cluttered end table or a single drawer, but clearing it up makes a huge difference in my day.
I am 63 and I am trying to "take the blinders off." In other words, some stuff has been there so long, and I thought I needed it for so long, that it does not even cross my mind to get rid of it. For example, I only use tablecloths about once a year, on a holiday. So why do I have so many? I got them on sale, they are pretty, they fit in the box they are in, they are not bothering anyone, etc. But I simply don't need them and don't use all of them. I want to dig deep and really "see" the stuff, and let it go if I am not using it, whether it is good stuff or not. I don't plan on dying for a long time, but when I do, I do not want to leave my children with a big mess to go thru.
petmom ful as a child who has already lost both parents, it can be such a daunting task cleaning and sorting after they have passed on. Do consider eliminating Aprox 40-60% of your belongings and donate them to a woman's domestic violence shelter. Your heart will spill over with joy knowing you have passed on a new item for someone less fortunate. 😊
@@missyelle2749 That is good advice. My daughter and I have been reading Marie Kondo's books and reading about minimalism. We are getting rid of a lot. It is funny how you can do it over and over, and get rid of more each time. I am also making my grown kids take ALL their stuff. They all have houses now so they can take their things and make their own decisions on what to keep. It is part of being an adult. lol When my mom passed, my oldest sister took charge of everything and took what she wanted. She would not let anyone else make decisions. So she did most of it. I can only imagine how hard it must be to go thru an entire house. My mom had downsized quite a bit already, as dad was long ago dead. I wish you all the best.
we are newish empty nesters and want to downsize in two years. We are starting now. I take a pic of anything that might be sentimental or useful and send it to my kids and siblings. In 24 hours it's gone if they don't respond. Mostly no one wants our old tablecloths, dishes and knickknacks.
@@paulalerose1546 Wow, that is a really great idea. It is easier to let things go when you know they are, "going to a good home." And some things seem to mean more to different members of the family. My dad was a mean guy, but we did have a good memory of him playing a ukulele while we did the dishes, and we sang in harmony. I play the ukulele so I wanted it. My sister had it laying in her basement broken, and wanted to get rid of it. She gave it it me and I got it repaired. I treasure it. It meant nothing to her.
@@petmomful2260 Marie Kondo would say if it brings you joy it isn't clutter (or something like that). I cherish a silver serving dish belonging to a deceased aunt and silver candlesticks belonging to my grandmother. My mom has a boatload of silver and I've told her and my sibs that I only want one item. That will be three silver pieces from different eras in a modern small home. I feel it will be an interesting decor item but not overwhelming. And I love it all. I can toss a lot of the other stuff to make room.
I no longer fear the doorbell and unexpected guests! I’ve had people come over and not once have I done any last minute clean up. I love it. I also feel so much lighter in my place. It took over a year to complete and it’s worth it.
YES! This is awesome!!!
I'm right there. Looking around the house thinking I can't do this and I have already done a lot of purging. I felt I was stuck. Thank you for the encouragement. I can do it.
This is so wonderful. I feel as though I’m treading water constantly. I’m drowning in clutter and chores and constant decision making. I am so glad my sister in law shared your channel with me!
Your details and examples are the reason your videos are more helpful to me than other bloggers!
Thank you!!!
I like how you talk about the process. Then you are motivated to not go backwards. I've said it before, but your videos are great for people no matter what season of life they are in.
After watching your kitchen declutter video, I went through my kitchen and thinned out so much. Next I cleaned out and organized my downstairs pantry/storage area and dropped off a trunkful of small appliances, storage containers, etc. So liberating! Thank you for the inspiration. I can’t wait to continue through my house and regain my peace!
This was exactly what I needed to see that it takes time. It’s so overwhelming I have 4 kids and one is under 1 it’s a lot to do each day. I feel so swamped by house work and laundry and never get to enjoy my day.
omg I think I finally found someone who understands me. I just want to have a good cry because you hit so many unnerving point. I am feeling all of this at this moment and there are days I just want to throw everything out my apt. because no one wants to or are not capable enough to deal with their stuff so it all falls on me
I understand the feeling of just wishing your kids were older. Mine are almost 2 and 5 and I've just embarrassed the fact that we are in a season of having a messy "life". After watching your videos now, I have reduced a lot of our things and I feel so much happier
OMG. I’m sooooo happy I came across you today. I’m a 49 yr old mom of 4 n everything you said was me 10 yrs ago and sadly still is today. 2 Kids going off to college now n me now back to working full time n I’m still overwhelmed by the STUFF!!!! I’m done!! I want it all gone!!! This is the motivation I’ve needed. Bless you!!! 🥰
Your story is exactly like mine. I have 4 kids under 8 and totally overwhelmed by stuff. I know I'm incredibly blessed, yet feel so burdened. I start working on minimizing, then life happens and it gets tossed aside. Thank you for your channel.
Oh my gosh hide and seek yes... I've been embarrassed before... The worst was when I had a friend over and I lost my phone and she was trying to help me find it, looking in the couch and cabinets as my toddler hid it somewhere... My goal now is to be unashamed and even proud of what the insides of cabinets and closets look like and even proud! I love your idea of having the cabinets and such only half full, it really makes everything easier to find and just looks great! Just found your channel yesterday, subscribed with notifications, and declutterred and cleaned the heck out of my linen cabinet today! Thanks for the motivation 😁. Now I can't wait for people to open up that closet lol
Your home is lovely. Growing up in a military family, we moved a lot and so didn't collect stuff. Our home was always clean, organized, simple. I married a man raised totally opposite. About two months ago, he saw the light, and helped me begin discarding stuff. Our goal is to have 70% gone by year's end. We are so much more at peace and joyful. It's never too late to begin improving our lives. Thank you for sharing yours.
This is so cool! And I'm glad you shared this, I know it will encourage others who's husbands aren't on board yet!!!
I agree that you'll see benefits over you start, far before you "finish". We don't do all the things and we're really just a few months "in" to this way of thinking, but we have been streamlining our toys, clothes, and kitchen items. It's awesome. We have given several families big bags of clothes and my older kids, who do their own laundry, actually really like having fewer clothes to deal with. I chip away at a drawer, a bin, a shelf most days and take a break when I need a week off. My husband, who is a great guy, has *without me asking* filled up bags of his own stuff to give away and throw away. That's a new thing for him, and I take that change as him seeing how good it feels to have less to manage! It's awesome to see how these small changes add up for all of us!
I just found your videos about 3 weeks ago and am hooked. I started minimizing and I love it. I started with my daughters' room and they were happy and excited to see their room clutter-free. I already did my kitchen and am working around my house. Thank you so much for what you do! God bless!
First, you are such a dear and such a cutie. I have been watching you for a few months now and love everything I see. I appreciate your rawness and how sincere you are. I've been working at turtle's pace for about a year now on simplifying THINGS in my home (and mind). I'm so encouraged by you and your videos. This note alone says a lot - I never leave a comment. Thank you for what you are doing and how you are doing it.
You know what’s so great, I’m a minimalist by nature. Even when I was young I realized I didn’t like having a lot of stuff. When the minimalist movement took off, I just thought it was silly to watch videos on it. But then we cut cable and I needed stuff to watch and happened upon this. This week I cleared all the plug-ins off my countertops. I thought my husband would hate that, but he’s so stinking happy. I keep getting inspired with every video!
This is so refreshing. I’m feeling crowded even though most people think my house is organized. I’m taking 2019 to simplify.
Thank you!❤ After stumbling through some decluttering youtuber channels over the past several months, I have found yours to be one of the very best!! I am so glad that you have put your experiences for all to see! So encouraged that I don't have to declutter my whole house in a weekend crash session. I am taking small steps to letting things go!! It has been so incredibly rewarding to "build my decluttering muscles"!😊 You are auch a blessing!
This is literally me!!!!!! I have never been able to articulate it but oh gosh, THIS IS ME! I definitely need to look into minimalism- I drowning in clothes and toys and dishes! DROWNING!
Thank you for the way you encourage others without judgement. Listening to you makes me feel supported in stepping into making choices that are going to take me out of my comfort zone.
Does anyone remember how HAPPY!!! we were when we were fresh out of college and enjoying our first apartment? IT WAS PRECISELY BECAUSE WE! HAD! NO! "STUFF".....I swear all my misery began when I was making more money and able to BUY!! MORE!! Totally unnecessary household ITEMS to the point that I became completely miserable and never wanted to come home anymore after work (avoiding my house 😩)..... minimalist lifestyle is the KEY to a better life. THANK! God! I found this life saving channel!
"Time is going to pass anyway"... I too am in same exhausted defeated feeling..but having been ur subscriber & today watching this is surely timely, much needed motivation..God bless u all
I have to laugh because "minimalism" used to be called just good housekeeping. Back before cheap goods from China, people couldn't afford tons of stuff, so it was unusual to have piles of anything around the house. Generally speaking, only determined hoarders had that problem. I remember how much I had to pay for the cheapest dress at the local low-end clothing store - $40 bucks, in 1973! My husband made $10,000/year. I made $1.47/hour as a book keeper at a department store. $40 was a lot of money! It would take me more than 27 hours of work to pay for that one "cheap" dress. Now extrapolate that to everything you needed for a household, and you see how people just didn't accumulate that much stuff.
I agree, my mom and I have talked about this several times!!!
Minimalism is basically how immigrants from India live for their first five years
I think that the fact that you can afford something and make the choice to not have it is minimalism , because you choose to have stuffs you use and that make you happy!
I agree. When I was an exchange student in Argentina, living with an upper middle class family, there was no clutter, and no waste. Leftovers from the big meal eaten in the middle of the day were finished that night for dinner. Shopping was not a way to pass the time, it was done when you needed something. Their contentment surprised me - as long as they had clothes, food, a clean home, etc. - in other words, as long as their needs were met - they were happy. They spent a lot of time together, watching TV while chatting, playing cards, cooking/cleaning together, and I admired their contentment. It's like in the U.S. we buy different sets of dishes, cushions, sheets, and other decor to match each season just because we CAN. I haven't in the past because I have nowhere to store all that stuff, but now I'm reminded what true contentment really is.
Very true .
You're quite possibly my spirit animal. You just described my story. 3 years ago there were no resources for minimalist FAMILIES. I'm so glad to see this addition. Thanks for all you do.
Thank YOU, I really appreciate that!!! :)
We have lots of knives and forks but they are kept in the storeroom for when we entertain. We keep a single set out for my husband and I and 4 spoons for my one year old twins. It is fabulous that we are physically not able to make a huge mess in the kitchen or create a huge pile of dishes
YES, I completely agree! Even if we dirtied EVERY dish in our kitchen, I know that it can be cleaned up in a matter of minutes not hours like in the past!!
I could store more than half of my dishes and silverware and not need them at all-- till company came over--but then they will still have to go somewhere. Seems logical to keep" like with like" rather than have same items in different places. I'm open to how you do this, please share. Thanks.
I stuck to my goal this week of decluttering and reorganizing at least 5 to 15 minutes a day! It makes me happy and feels great. I also know that if I keep going with these little steps I will continually move ahead. Who knows where I will be a year from now. A thrilling thought. The little dosages of decluttering are manageable even on busy days. Decluttering and reorganizing can be emotionally draining since you deal with old stuff and have to make constant decisions. Here the daily small doses of doing it are a great concept!
Just discovered your channel and loving it. You are spot on with saying you will see the effects of decluttering straight away even from starting small. My first step was to declutter my kitchen drawers that contained cutlery and utensils and as I'm in the kitchen daily I had to open those drawers many times and the feeling of seeing less in those drawers was so fulfilling. The feeling was so great that I continued decluttering other areas from there and then it almost became addictive as the feeling that comes with having less is so great.
Love the video. It's been the way I've been feeling for years bc I started not to care either! All the kids were in school now, so I started my minimalist journey. I started in the kitchen bc all guests and it's the most used room. I have been posting the items online and making extra money also. Why didn't I start years before was my regret. It will take time to go through the house. I do see that trickle down effect you talk about. It has made such a difference. I cook with such ease. I meal plan. I work a full time job and it makes it refreshing to come home to. I make breakfast, lunch and dinner everyday. I will give myself one day to pick up lunch, to pick up breakfast and one to pick up dinner. This way it gives me permission to take a break without eating out like we used to. I will take more fruit for breakfast and a coffee from home. Leftovers or a sandwich for lunch. Fresh dinners for the family to eat. My bank account shows it too! I've been spending so much less.
Yay! This is all SO awesome and inspiring! I love the giving yourself one day off for each meal as well...I know this will inspire others, thank YOU for sharing!!!! :)
I know this video is a little older now, but for me, minimalism gives me more time with my family and to do what I want to do. And you are so right in all your videos Dawn, about minimalism being about more than making it easier to manage our stuff - it permeates our finances, how we spend our time, perhaps even our faith life. Part of that for me, is not using social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, twitter, etc. I have so much more free time than most of my peers and other SAHMs, and I frankly get so much more done, and I truly believe it is because my time isn't being wasted with those websites, nor is my mental and emotional energy being sapped up by them. Me being more productive at home also impacts my husband, because if I have time to do a small house repair or errands because I am not bogged down with tons of other things, it means he can be more present in the evenings and weekends with our family. God bless you and your family for sharing your ways.
I just came across your channel and I find you to be so transparent and absolutely adorable ❤️ All people ever want is TRUTH AND HONESTY and you give it to your viewers in spades....KUDOS young lady! Patty sending you blessings from Colorado 🙏❤️🙏
You described my life exactly in the first 5 minutes! I added homeschooling to that life and felt SO lost. My kids are teens now, and Im committed to minimalism. Thank you for your honest videos- and I love it when your twin sister visits too!
My friend introduced me to Go Clean Co and I was looking for videos on RUclips when I found one of yours. It was comparing different cleaning methods. After that one came another. I heard you talk about “reducing inventory” and about how things pull you down emotionally (that is what I learned from it anyway). I began to declutter with a whole new mindset. Whenever I get rid of something that has made me make a mental to-do list, it was so relieving! I know it won’t happen overnight, but It’s coming along. It doesn’t’ take as much energy to clean and I’ve even made my bed nearly every morning (before I didn’t care). I’ve even shared your channel with my friend who inadvertently started me on this journey.
I'm with you on the "washing and using the same things over and over again." I realized i only need those things and i have been living for a while just using those same things over and over. That is why i got rid of the stuff we didn't need. I am proud to say that we actually have four huge rooms in our house that could actually be condensed completely into one room. One room has just a play tunnel and judo mats, 2nd room just has a set of toddler beds, nothing else, 3rd room has a small couch and mounted tv and small basket of toys and small play kitchen(was able to downsize three of the four sizes of the huge kitchen set) 4 th room has the bigger couch and a few picture frames on the wall. Literally could combine all those things into one room. Basically could downsize our house in half easily by square footage. I have no decorations to dust or dvds cause we do Netflix and Amazon prime. I wouldn't change my house/life style for anything. It took me 2 to 3 yrs to get rid of everything because we moved 4 times in a couple yrs so each time we got rid of more stuff. My husband and i have less stuff now total than BEFORE we had our three kids!!! And, we even had an extra room in our old apartment just for our junk!! And that was before kids too. We laugh about it now cause we literally just packed it full of stuff and never used any of it. We wasted so much money on a 2 bedroom apartment all in the name of stuff. Let that be something to take into consideration my fellow inspiring minimalist!💙
I SECOND THAT! Totally awesome and inspiring!!!
I'm single, childless and therein immediately way removed from your demographic but!... I clicked in to listen whilst I was washing up, and having quietly gone through my own 1-year stop and start 'de-clutter / minimalism' experience, found myself applauding your down-to-earth, indeed frank, approach. Very nicely done 👏
I love the positive attitude you have about being a minimalist. I also have children, and husband im a homemaker. I always felt the same way you did ,and even though I felt that way I still cleaned the house ,and believe that every day brings me one step closer to becoming a minimalist as I'm donating ,and tossing items not needed no more as well. I enjoyed watching your channel.
Thank you Michelle!!
You’re right! I’m feeling more confident about things . Like I cleaned out my house now I feel like other things are possible. Thank you 🙂
you know I minimilised 5 years ago when we sold up everything and went to travel in our caravan full time. We were on the road 8 months then found out we were expecting baby number 4. We have been back living in a house now 4 years and I never thought minimising would ever be overwhelming for me. I can so relate when you spoke about when you look at all the things you have to tidy up and the amount of clothes you have to wash each day. It is definately a motivation breaker. So grateful for coming across your channel. Thankyou
Traveling full time, that sounds awesome!! And thank you! It is quite amazing ALL of the things that four kids come with these days, isn't it!?! Blessings on your journey, I'll look forward to keeping in touch!
Yes it certainly is amazing what four kids come with, hahahaha! Thankyou for your blessings. I watched your Laundry Video and Minmizing the kids wardrobe video aswell. Lessened their wardrobe a few months ago to the nuber 10. Number 5 will be the number for us for sure and certainly basket shopping is on the list. :). Have a fabulous weekend :)
Ah, that's really fun to hear! (Especially with all of the people who have given me a hard time about not folding...FOUR KIDS PEOPLE!!! 😉)
wow, now that is a good statement......"Time is going to pass anyway". True, time is marching on, so be encouraged......I am preaching to myself right now.....thanks
Thank you so much for sharing your minimalist journey, ups and downs. Realistic views, dramatic and actual views for every day life of a minimal family. 👪
Have been watching you for couple of years now and at first, I thought how 🤔 can this possible be. There is no way I could do this. My husband has been telling me for years, this is what he would love for our home to look like. Yet, I was the one dealing with the mess or as you say "managing it". So I told my husband, you are dreaming. We are a family of 5 and 3 kids that I keep up with. OH, I was so frustrated with my hubby when he would tell me the same thing, "What did you do all day" 😠 now he calls it, "You goofing 🤪 off again. 😩
After, my Pastor did a Powerful Sermon on Clutter and Mess, is interrupting your spiritual life. 🙏 🤯🤯🤯 I took that message personally, NOW...I am on the 🏁 of minimalist my home. Watching 👀 your videos again and the content is hitting me just as the sermon. 🙌
I got emotional listening to your experience because that was me as well when I had my child in this huge house that took all my time to keep clean and tidy. I felt guilty and miserable. Thank you for shining a light on this issue that many women have. ❤️
I was also searching for an example of minimalism for a family, we have 3 kids 3 to 8. Thank you for being there ! You are such an inspiration. Since watching your videos we downsized the kids toys, family clothes and the kids books. This is wonderful, I would never go back. We already feel the difference in our moods and that affects all the family. Now when we need to clean our family room it takes literally 5 min! With this video I know it will probably take a year to do the whole house and I feel fine with that. Thanks again ! I'll keep watching !
Yay!! This. is. SO. AWESOME!!!! Thank you for sharing, this is SO encouraging! (To me and EVERYONE else who reads it!!!) :)
@ abt 8:00 she said it took her approx a Year.. Good..bc i get overwhelmed just looking at this TEENY 720 sq ft. OLD 1942 "house" crammed with stuff as there is nowhere to put it..
i just get defeated & cry 😢
"So... What did you do all day...?" LOL! I get that line sooo often! I need less stuff and more motivation to live my life to the fullest with my family. Thank you for your videos.
I've watched more of your current videos and thought I'd take a gander at this one. So authentic, vulnerable and downright funny! I appreciate your journey and encouragement as each person endeavors to live more simply!
I’m so here.. I’m very much in this season where I feel like my days are ONLY trying to catch up on chores and tidying and while life passes me by and shoeing my kids. And I’m just missing their early years :(
Watched your videos for aprox. six months now and can't understand how I missed this one! So interesting and you really tell from your heart, one can feel that. Thank you!
Another good thing is that you show your children, both boys and girls, that an adult (here mother) can have children and still have time for some career, and most importantly, how to acknowledge your feelings back then and taking an adult responsibility and change this to the better! They will know that this can be done.
So inspiring!
Thank you for using the term
simple living l think that has helped me a lot. What works best for you personally you always say 😊
My house is not big I saw people decluttering their kitchen on
U Tube I have three cabinets to put things in and they had nine or more for me I do have stuff setting out there's really nowhere to put it. But decluttering inside of the cabinets I just smile when I open them I'm still working on it there's 7 people in my house so there's a lot of stuff not many closets in This Old House that I'm blessed to have I'll just keep working thank you Dawn
You ARE about your Father's business. What is it
Mother Teresa said
Not all of us can do great things
but we can do small things with great love.
I believe you are Dawn
Gosh, I relate so well to you! Last year when I set out on this journey i felt like I was treading water only the water were laundry, dishes, cleaning and a mom with a bad attitude while doing it. I had started to give up and we never seemed to have any time. You are very inspiring, truly!
Thank you Alex and thank YOU for ALL of the encouragement along the way, it means more than you know!!!! (and love following you on instagram, you house is👌, love your style!!!)
Saved this video. This is me now. I'm at that point. I'm on the edge of simplifying my life and my home. You're so real 🤗🌸🧡
I'm not a mom but I am a researcher turned lawyer so you can only IMAGINE the paperwork I have stored. I REALLY appreciated this video because I so relate to the sense of oppression that comes with being surrounded by clutter and stuff and feeling like you're beholden to it instead of IT serving YOU. Thanks so much for making this video and being so genuine. That's so much nicer than the hyper-polished youtube "personalities" that dominate this site. Subscribed.
I loved your analogy about the struggling racers! I am a homeschooling mom of 4 (read: my kids are home all day!). We don't buy or own a lot of toys (especially not noisy or "big" toys), yet I feel anxiety and unrest when my kids leave clutter on the floor and surfaces. We recently sold our 1000sqft home and are moving into 2600sqft of finished space! But I don't plan on filling up our new space with new stuff, or even all of our old stuff. When we moved three years ago, our 3 kids did not complain once of boredom when all of their toys except Duplo blocks and stuffed animals were packed in boxes for 2 months. After watching one of your videos before Christmas, I talked to my children: "You only play with your blocks, dress-up clothes, and drawing supplies." They agreed to eliminate a lot of toys, and a zoo membership is their promised non-toy Christmas gift. Since packing up the toys they were hesitant to sell, and decluttering for selling our house, my husband has appreciated the calm and space that "less" has brought to our lives. I want my kids to understand true "need" versus "want," to appreciate time and relationships instead of possessions, and to prefer the possessions that bring us together (bikes, camping gear, and Lego, for instance). I would love to hear more about how minimalism has extended to your kids' lives. I don't know if my kids are quite convinced, but it has been a hectic few months of renovations and decluttering.
I’m not sure if you mentioned this in this video or not, but I wanted to share.
On one of your videos that I watched awhile ago, you said that you wanted a home where someone could drop by and you only had to pick up in 5-10 mins to feel like your home was clean for them to come. Yesterday my husband had an issue with the lawnmower and his parents needed to come by to help. They are 30 mins away. In about 15 mins, we have the kitchen and living room picked up and I even had time to vacuum the stairs and clean the mirror in the bathroom 🤣
All I could think of was what you had said and it felt AMAZING to finally be in that position without running around until they got there and still having stuff I wanted to clean.
You’ve helped me so much and I can’t thank you enough. Yesterday showed me that this is the journey I want to be on even though I’ve been trying for years. 💜💜💜
thank you for voicing what so many of us feel on the daily !
Omg you literally are speaking to my soul! ♥️ You're adorable, glad I found you on YT today
I am a mum and manage all the household chores, and always find that the chores seem to get on top of me. At the end of everyday the house is completely messy and stuff is everywhere. I am naturally a messy person and have never been able to keep the house organised no matter how hard I tried. Your videos have given me a new outlook on life! Time to start the decluttering process.
This is the Dave Ramsey of motherhood...once you are fed up you will begin making changes...and one baby step at a time you will get healthy routines made.
Thank you so much for opening my eyes! You are amazing! You have inspired me to look at all of my belongings and decide to keep only what I use. I’m almost done with my kitchen and I’m so excited at my results! Thank you, thank you! You have made such an impact in my life! May the Lord bless you!
Hi Dawn! I love your videos! They've been so inspiring! We're beginning our minimalism journey and I'm loving it so far. We're downsizing to a 1300 sq ft house (from 1900). We have 5 children. I'm selling everything (well almost) and paying off debt. I just feel the shackles and burdens of stuff and debt melting away. It feels so good and I'm able to focus on what's really important and essential: relationships, experiences, love, etc. We still have a long way to go, but I see the vision of it now and I don't want to stop! Thanks for sharing your journey with us!
I just wanted to say a big thankyou .
My husband and I have 5 children and a dog , I've always just been getting by.
A year and half ago my husband died age 40 and with your help, clutterbug lady and Swedish death cleaning has changed me so much I'm actually smiling while doing chores around the house . Thanks again Susan Sherwood UK 💋
Couldn't agree more! I started with clutterbug about a year ago and don't get me wrong I LOVE Her, but haven't been quite able to go fully in and implement a lot of it, and I truly believe it's bc this right here is the piece I've been missing! You Dawn was my Missing Link😂 I've been off and on steadily the last month trying and just end up back at square one like usual and then.... I found you the other day and Ahh-Haaa!!!! Cannot Express how Much you are Truly a Blessing!! I can watch and watch organization, decluttering, different method video's all day and don't stop to do anything bc I was still searching! Kicking myself in the bud for not clicking when I had the chance a year ago!!!! God Bless You! And I'm Sooo Sorry for Your Loss! One day at a time and slowly with each go through and change, WE WILL GET THERE!!! I too got my kid Everything and regret it sooo sooo much now!! Looking forward to being able to put on your videos again 2mro and work, work, work!!!
This video really speaks to me. I too have been struggling with too much stuff in the house. My process to pare down is taking a long time but it is true that you feel a sense of accomplishment at every small step. Thanks for posting!
Thank you, I'm so glad to hear this!!
Yep! It takes a very long time - but don't try to take short-cuts. It took me a year and a half to get most of the decluttering done - another year to finish, including all the house projects that needed to get done too. Once your house is decluttered the construction projects are easier to do.
Ooh but we love looking inside cupboards n drawers! Thanks for all ur inspiration
I can so resonate with everything thing you are saying. I started with the Kon Mari method, but I wanted to go further. I kept looking for videos on minimalism for families and there weren't many choices. So glad to find you! Good to see a minimalist family besides the ones where everyone lives in a van and the lifestyle is so hard to relate to as an average american family. I still need to tackle the toy clutter so thanks for the inspiration!
Thank you, SO glad to hear this!!!! :)
I am a mother of four. I work and I am trying to finish my bachelors. I realized cleaning my kid's rooms that the rooms were packed of stuff. Why do we have so much. I recently started with my own room, yet I felt exhausted and overwhelmed. So thank you for your advice to just take it one step at a time, one day at a time. I will continue on this journey.
Oh yes! Your comment on missing your career, and peoples thoughts on enjoying the kiddos now...but you simply NOT, resonated. This is me right now. Thank you. I needed an answer for living intentionally and not.the drowning feeling with the learning curve of adding a second baby two months ago on top of bookkeeping for my hubbies business. You are an answer to my prayers. Literally!
Thank YOU!!! :)
LOVE THIS!!! This is where I am now. Husband works long hours and isn't on the same page and I'm a teacher on summer break with a toddler and feel defeated since there's stuff every where and she's getting into everything! All I do is move a stack of clutter from the dinning room table to another table, which she can then reach later on by climbing on the couch, etc... You're real, and honest and trying to use nap time to go through things but also exercise, shower and watch a non singing cartoon video! Will not feel defeated if all I can do is a couple of cabinets in a week! :)
Hey Dawn!!! I am a new subscriber to your channel and loving it! I am always encouraged and inspired by your videos!! One word that I heard you say quite a few times in this video was ORDER! I too am a christian and I have a relationship with Jesus and that word order is on my mind a lot lately! Especially what has happened in our world the last 2 years! There needs to be more order in homes, families, marriages, relationships, etc! When we can have order in our daily lives, what a difference it can be!! Its actually bringing life back into us again! In a way we need to ask ourselves how are we stewarding our things, time, money? And in the Bible it talks about being good stewards of what God has entrusted to us! For me this was a bit of a conviction but im so glad it happened! Thank you so much for opening my eyes to minimalism and just living life simply!!
One closet/drawer at a time is definetely a good way to go! :) About two months ago, in my summer vacation, I did an intense speed declutter of all the rooms. I live in an apartment (kitchen, bathroom, hallway and combined dining/living/sleeping space), but it was almost scary how much I had managed to pack into the closets - things I was mostly keeping out of guilt or 'what if'. I managed to purge a lot, and I invested in a few new pieces of furniture with more optimal function. The feeling was amazing! I have nothing whatsoever under my bed, I have a place where I can sit in the morning and get ready, and my space feels more functional and calm. And it is so much faster and easier to tidy and clean.
Since then, I have had an unintentional break. I think the main thing is, it is difficult to get the things out of my house. I live in the city, I don't have a car, and there are no recycling stations nearby. I have to walk pretty far to the nearest charity shop, and without a car, it is not much I can carry at once. I can only stockpile so much at a time in the kitchen, before it starts to get in the way.
The first sweep was 'easy', because so much of it was junk. I think the next one will be a bit harder. Either way, I think it is time to get back at it, and do a more detailed round. I will take this video as my sign. :)
Great video! I began a minimalist lifestyle two years ago. It took me about a year to declutter also. It makes life so much easier! I can't imagine going back!
Awesome! I always SO glad to hear this!!!!
Love your channel so much! During quarantine I have decluttered every room and closet in my house. I also did the meal planning with my husband. Life feels radically freeing. Living simply is truly the best!
I’ve been watching so many of your videos and it has really helped me to get to the next level in decluttering our home. I had done a couple layers and gotten stuck. Now I’m making progress again and it has freed up s9 much time and mental space to focus on what I really want to - homeschooling my kids! Thank you for sharing your journey!
I love the Hide n Seek story 😁. Thank you for the encouragement, Dawn!
started to see it years too late. when the children were small it was normal to buy more and more. we were raised that way by our parents and environment. 3 years ago I started to see it differently. we work for things that you do not need, which will cause a burden on your shoulders. because you always have to do something with it. I have now started to live smaller in terms of home. But with a much larger garden that I have always wanted.
I have been watching your Video’s for some time now... and somehow just came upon this one. It is so good, thank you for sharing. I realized in the last couple years How Much Stuff I have accumulated. And yes, overwhelmed, embarrassed if someone should drop in unannounced... And there is just me. My house can be totally cleaned and in a couple days you’d think a big whirlwind had just come through. I finally got started though, and just finishing up my 2nd 30/31 Day Minimalist Challenge. It is a process, and I’m seeing the Sentimental Stuff is what gets at me... but I’ll get there... A little at a time... thank you.
I feel exactly the way you felt before you started this journey, I hope ai can get to where you are Dawn, thank you so much for all your videos, I love your channel, it inspires me every time, blessings to you and your family
Your home is so clean and beautiful! It just looks so peaceful and relaxing; I wish I would have grown up in a house that looked like this. Great job !!
I think I would have enjoyed growing up in a house like this, too! Thank you!!!
@@TheMinimalMom extremely underrated comment💝
“Time will pass anyway”. Loved this so much I immediately shared with my besties. Such truth.
Thank I would have loved to hear this when my kids were young; but it is helping now as I want to live a simple life with more time my husband and I to spend more time traveling and starting towards a more meaningful retirement 😊❤️
To help stop the flow of toys coming in, you have to get grandparents on board. If they keep bringing cool stuff in, it will become a battle.. You've done a great job.
"the time's gonna pass anyway" thiiiiis is such good advise! my god
You were right about just starting. I was overwhelmed with the idea of clearing out with the KonMari method. Taking everything out (like clothes) and sorting and tossing. It was another major project. But instead I did what you had said in another video...like peeling an onion layer by layer....(something to that effect). So I started with the master bedroom. First it was a drawer...then another and before I knew I was clearing the top of the chest of drawers and a bookcase. I then rearranged an artwork to another wall. I did as much clearing that was enough for that day. But I felt refreshed about the whole room and the atmosphere. Even my husband who did not helped, said the room felt lighter.
So after clearing the master bedroom I'm inspired to tackle other clutter problem areas throughout my home...the hallway bookcase, the coat closet, …..as when I have time and energy. Layer by layer....thanks for a great video!!!
I'm exactly where you were at. Thank you for this. I used to be minimalist by nature. I left everything go over the last year and now I'm on my journey back. This helped me so much to feel motivated.
What I've noticed about us is, so many things because just part of the scene. We overlook so much stuff just because [whatever it is] it has sat in that spot for years. Suddenly one day, it dawns on me....why are we keeping this ?! So much is there just because it has been for so long. The more that leaves out house, the better we feel. The more we lighten the load, again, the better we feel. We can breathe a sigh of relief. I don't think we'll go all out minimal....but, boy, we've got too much stuff & it feels wonderful to let a lot of it go.