Oh my goodness! Your home is not nearly as bad as you make it out to be! Give yourself some grace. Your kids are home all day, you’re home all day and stuff happens that takes priority over cleaning. You did a great job in finding stuff that wasn’t being used. It’s the best time to declutter as you know what has NOT been touched. I give you credit and appreciate you sharing about mental health struggles. I wish more people shared because it is NORMAL to struggle. NORMAL to have kids make messes. NORMAL for life to get messy. You are a brave woman and I give you credit for sharing on social media.
I love how honest you are! I had no idea you suffered from depression. Mental health stigma needs to be removed and we need to talk about how life isn't always perfect.
I challenge you to a new series about a second pass through the whole house. You could even incorporate that into the challenge. One box-per room. You could be the judge of box size. It is the biggest boost to my mental health. Decluttering has changed my life.
I agree! I think you should keep going room by room and build that decluttering muscle and then go back and do a round 2 for everything. I’m always surprised by how much I get rid of during round 2 or 3. It’s like the stuff looses its value over time and make it’s easier the more I re-evaluate that room.
I agree. I suffer from depression but it comes in waves and on a good day I can be really motivated to get rid of stuff. She really has a lot of stuff. Getting rid would help her in so many ways.
@@gardeninginthedesert It is so healing to our systems. Janet, (in the kindest, gentlest way) this is Shannon’s safe space. We are all on journeys and I for one am glad our friend has the courage to share her experiences with us as it helps us all greatly. The amount of stuff someone has is all relative, depending on where we live, who lives with us, our culture, our values, etc. One thing that’s helped us from the time our kids were toddling babies was gently asking people “please, no gifts.” The amount of things we acquire from others can be a whole house of stuff within itself. Personally, I love gift giving, especially with littles and a certain holiday we celebrate. When I look around I see mostly things we’ve purchased for our kids; we have no one to blame but ourselves. 😂 Oh and another thing is keeping a running list of practical things our kids need/ or would like, that way they can give a gift that really helps.
I’m old enough to be your mother. All my littles are long gone. But I feel like I’ve found a friend. I have struggled with depression for years but with the help of a good psychiatrist I’m more than able to cope. My daughter is helping me declutter my very messy home. Hang in there. Give yourself grace. God surely does!!! God bless you!,
I'm sure a million people have suggested this, but dont leave the room until everyone does a 5-10 minute pick up, put on music or have a treat after- that way its addressed every day and doesnt have a chance 5o get overwhelming ❤❤❤
This was not a failure at all. You should be proud of what you've done. We have been there and go there more often than we'd like to admit. Just keep up the good work, lady. 🙂❤
Girl, I’m sending you some hugs. I can relate all too well with how you feel. Instead of comparing the “after” to the current status compare the “before” decluttering to the current status. You’ve accomplished more than you give yourself credit for. Xo
I think you did a great job. Kitchen is always a challenge and teaching the kids to clean up after themselves is an ongoing process. Don't be so hard on yourself.
You are great! Remember that. Keep pushing on with decluttering. It’s like peeling layers of onions. Go a little deeper each time. The reward will be less to manage. You’re super! 😘
I always enjoy watching your videos. This is just the season of life your in. As the kids get old the messes will be fewer. Don’t be so hard on yourself!😀
Don't be disheartened, you are managing a whole household with 3 young children. You did such a great job decluttering, that was a huge lot of stuff gone. It won't take long for a maintenance tidy. Took me heaps of tries to declutter, fwiw ...
At least your husband puts them in the cabinet!! I call that a win 😂!! I honestly feel your pain and find motivation in your videos. Thank you and keep up your spirits and good work.
You have NOT failed! You've done absolutely amazing on decluttering! It's a process and a journey and you're still living in your house! Nothing stays instagram worthy for long if you have to actually live your life there! Since your whole family is still learning how to declutter, it is absolutely normal that it won't look spotless every single day. But as far as I am concerned the "messes" are very small ones that are quickly cleaned up and that will grow smaller and smaller as you all get into the cleaning and decluttering habit. Don't be so hard on yourself, be proud of what you've achieved!
My mom struggled with depression when I was a child. I do know what going into survival mode means for a family... Today, though, I am a grateful daughter who tries to help mom and dad as much as I can. Your efforts -yours and his - will be acknowledged and thanked for once your kids grow up. Do not give up. Be very proud of yourself. Hugs and blessings going your way.
So thankful I found your channel. I have been stuck and overwhelmed trying to figure out how to organize my craft room and make it a place that is peaceful and inviting, to me, instead of overwhelming, disorganized and confusing. I've watched a million craft room tour videos, hoping that would help. It hasn't. At all. It wasn't until I found your channel that I actually got started. Everyone shows the "after" picture. Your channel is the first one I found that is honest enough to show the "before" - the stage where I am. I just can't thank you enough. Your honesty has been a great help to me. Thank you so much!!
You are not alone. I also struggle with depression and anxiety. I buy my kids to many toys because I feel guilty that they are stuck with me, which in turn adds to the clutter. We sometimes do a pickup party. Blast some upbeat music, turn on the party light and clean as fast as you can for 15 minutes. Everyone joins in. Then we sit down and watch a movie or show and have a treat for a job well done. Bedtime after and then you can wake up to a clean home.
Why would anyone bash you ❤. My tips to you is to have the children to put away their stuff each day before dinner or before they get to watch tv. Then they learn to clean up as the go during the day so it is not to much in the evning. And if they don't do it, put the stuff that is not put away in a garbage bag and set it aside for a week. 🙂 Here in Sweden we gave a tradition of getting candy on Saturdays. And in my family we had to clean our rooms before getting our allowance and going to the store to buy the candy. The cleaning involved tidying up, making the bed, dusting, vacuuming. And kids can do that att all ages, with some help when they are really young. I still remember being proud of cleaning my room and how good I felt when I was able to get my allowance and go and buy Saturday candy. And I was not allowed to spend all the money on candy, had to save some in my piggy bank and when it was full going to the bank and deposit it in my bank account.
Come on! The rooms look great! You are ALWAYS gonna have stuff on the floor with kids. The fact that you decluttered has helped lessen the messes tremendously. Cut yourself some slack... F/T job #1: Stay home mom F/T job #2: Homeschool mom F/T job #3: RUclipsr AND you said you have a business!! 🤦♀️Jeesh. I’m exhausted just thinking about it. LOL. You are doing a GREAT JOB! Praying for you! You’re one of my new favorite channels!❤️
I needed to hear this, thank you so much. I think sometimes I forget just how much I do. Depression does it’s best to make you feel like a failure when your far from it.
It's not too bad. You could have showed the original room, the clean room and then now. Most major declutters take multiple times to really clear space. You should be proud of yourself!
I've been a minimalist for 10 years now and I still declutter ALL. THE. TIME. Like literally every week I find stuff to get rid of. It's totally normal to find things to declutter as time goes on and life evolves, even if you've already decluttered that area. And I'm only one person, let alone an entire family like you guys! Absolutely no shame in going through areas multiple times - in fact, I think it's something that should be praised because you're learning more about what you and your family needs and trusting yourself that you will be okay to let that item go. Anyway, I love your channel! Hope you have an amazing day today and God bless!!!
This makes me feel better. It’s definitely been a learning process. Do you keep a donate box somewhere in your home or in each room? Any tips on decluttering as you go?
@@LeafLikeOnATree Yes! I have a place where I gather stuff to be donated and that helps a lot. (I have a small apartment so I can get away with one box.) I would say the things that have helped me the most are setting realistic goals, determining my "why" for decluttering, and stopping the influx of items as much as I can. And realizing/accepting that there is not an endpoint, it's a lifestyle. I also like watching videos and reading blogs - Erica Lucas, Dawn the Minimal Mom, and Becoming Minimalist are my faves. But definitely the best part is that you make the rules!! No wrong answers and no pressure to "get it done"!
Thank you for sharing your real life with us. I have thyroid issues and when my children were little all my energy went into work and taking care of them so, I completely understand. It is so helpful for others to see they’re not alone in struggling to deal with housekeeping issues.
I totally understand what you’re going through sweetheart- I also have depression and anxiety. It’s so hard to keep everything clean when you have 3 young children going behind you making messes! When my 3 children were young I told them I had 3 rules- 1. Dirty dishes in the sink or dishwasher 2. Trash in the trash can 3. Dirty clothes in the hamper. I also made a rule for myself to clean as I go. I spent a few minutes at the end of the day to tidy up each room just mainly putting things back where they belong. Make a specific spot for everything that you know where you want everything to stay. This really helped me keep my sanity over the years! I hope this helps you
I think you were being to hard on yourself! You were right , the rooms weren't that bad ...they just needed some tiding. Hugs!!! My husband is a contractor and fixes things for other people all day and my honey do list hardly ever gets done :(
I think it takes time to get in a tidy grove. It’s an adjustment for everyone. Take care of you! Just a thought... you could pick up the hall and put everything in a dark bag that your kids won’t need. Put the bag in your closet and see if life goes on without that stuff😊 You have done a great job!
Thank you for sharing that it's not all fun and charming as most depict.. real life happens, real feelings occur, and we're all human. I have been having my runs of depression too and it helps when people share, bc then it normalizes it all... it's all appreciated and hope you have better days then not 💕
You are honest and I really appreciate that! But please do not have too high expectations. Decluttering helps a lot to tidy a room up quickly, it does not necessarily mean that there will never be a mess again. Took me a while to learn this! Just keep going. You said that the first days your family did a good job picking up. Next time it will last longer, then longer and someday it kicks in as a habit and the mess will become smaller and smaller. You cannot change a habit from one day to the next. Needs a lot of self diciplineand patience. And actually I think some rooms were not bad at all. A few things lying around are just normal in a familiy with young kids. The key is that everyone can put it away quickly.
Print a large poster size photo of each finished room behind each door so that everyone can remember where everything goes and how the room should look - everything in it's place and a place for everything
I definitely agree! A place for everything and everything in its place. Shannon, get your whole family involved with this mantra.I’m sure they are , just follow up. You did quite well!!
I dont believe in failures when youve at least tried! And you my dear have gone way beyond that❤ you are so very hard on yourself....i totally get the depression issue! You are right ...the body reacts to what you do to your body! I have fibromyalgia and deal with this consistently daily! ....my goal is to one thing daily....that gives me the most success❤
I deal with depression and anxiety too!!! Thank you for being real.....This was actually inspiring to me. So many RUclipsrs can be fake......You are very real and genuine. Thank you Shannon....We will get through this.
I labeled our kitchen pantry shelves. My husband teased me, "Do you really need labels for the food?" No, I need labels so YOU put things in the right spot. That stopped him. And it worked. :)
@@LeafLikeOnATree We're all doing our best. You know what you need help with and aren't afraid to ask for it. Sometimes that's the hardest part. Now it will be trial and error to decide what systems and habits work best for you and your family for this phase of life. You've got this. 😉
Be gentle with yourself. It takes time to develop new habits that will help everyone maintain the house. And FYI being super mom had nothing to do with if your house is tidy. Just focus on teaching your children to be good people and love the heck outta them! That will make you a super mom!
Maybe youve already reached this point before youtube maybe your slightly feeling it now but at some point youll plateau and then a rage purge will like implode and give you fire of a thousand suns energy where your emotions will just cut off and youll be pure logic and clarity and be able to just BAMF through the place and shoving things into the bin and to donate and not um and ah or second guess yourself. Being on a rage purge warpath is truly magical 😂💖 helped me push through the plateau and get back into the more refining decluttering and more final stages of it like organising and getting better quality things buying all white towels etc 😂💖
Shannon be gentle with yourself, I too deal with depression. Be thankful for the wonderful hubby you have, who helps out. My only suggestion would be to have the kids be more responsible for their stuff. I used to always have the kids do a nightly clean up about a half hour before bed. It’s not gonna be perfect but nothing left in the hall or living room, most off the playroom floor. If things got real bad I would “quarantine “ toys. Remind them how blessed they were to have so much. Keep them put away in a tote for a while. Just some ideas, I don’t think your place looked bad at all, just lived in. Keep up the great content 👍😍
You have come so far already! You are doing a great job! Just grab some boxes and trash bags and start another round, when you get back to where you started then saddle up and go again. Keep doing this till you are satisfied with how things are and how it is to maintain. You got this girl! One day at a time. In the meantime, get the kids on a routine of daily cleaning up after themselves using the FlyLady’s system for kids. It works, I used it with my kids. And you can box up toys, books, & games leaving some things out but majority put away then swap it out every 3-4 months. It’s like new stuff when it comes out of storage to the kids! My kids loved doing this because it was easier to keep their things picked up & put away where it belonged when they were younger. As they got older and learned how to keep things tidy we phased this practice out. Hope you have a blessed week! Looking forward to your next video. ❤️
I am so impressed how you deal with depression. One day science will be able to explain the hormon inbalances on an individual level and medicate each person for their specific inbalances.
I'm a homeschooling mom to 8 and decluttering is ongoing. I'm always surprised a week after I declutter I get back into it and get more bags full. I get very depressed when I feel overwhelmed by stuff . your not alone and you are doing great. One thing that helps me when I'm depressed is to get out with all the kids and hike.
I love meeting other HSing mommas on here! Bless you for homeschooling 8. I will be homeschooling 3 next year and I am still trying to figure out how I am going to do it. I feel like I barely juggle the two right now.
I was expecting something horrible! You’re being so hard on yourself, the rooms look pretty good for having three young kids. So proud of you for this video. Negative thoughts and depression episodes are very hard to battle for me too, and cleaning has felt so hard, so this video was so relatable to me. I’ve been putting off starting a cleaning channel and this gave me motivation to possibly start tomorrow and do ANOTHER round of decluttering this week😂
You can give your kids some chores as well, since they are big enough to do some things. For example, they can trash the homeschoolroom or playroom while they are playing or learning, but once they are done, it is their task to clean their mess up. This teaches them some responsibility, and it will help You maintain everything. One they see how hard it is to clean something on a day to day basis they will be more mindfull about messes they make. This will take time and energy to become their routine, but it was always my job to tidy my bed, clean my toys and put my clothes into the basket of dirty clothes. You don't have to give them tasks they clearly can't do because of their age but start implementing some chores and responsibility in their everyday life, and this will also teach them how some things are done, so that they know how to deal with things when they move out one day.
I am older but I can remember how hard it was keeping things up with a bunch of kids at home. I grew up in a chaotic home and lots of mess in my home stressed me out too much. You seem to be putting it all on your shoulders, maybe focus on systems to make things easier. Keep all the little things in closets, teach your kids one thing at a time, you must pick up and put away before getting something else out. My kids only had one basket of toys at a time. If they were bored of it they could trade it for stuff in the closet. They did not have a play room that they could destroy. If you are always the one putting things away and cleaning up it won't get better.
Girl, your house still looks amazing! Keep that great attitude (even when its extra tough) it gets easier every time you go through things. It gets easier to say goodbye to items and others easier and easier to keep it picked up. Its a lifestyle change that takes time. Keep it up! I love watching you and love that you show real life. Life isn't Pinterest perfect, we shouldnt have to pretend that it is!!!!
its ok Shannon. I have extreme anxiety and depression. I know that when it comes to decluttering we can do it together. Your doing amazing I wish you the upmost support and happiness
I felt so similar last year... then began to take supplement serotonin (htp5)... it helped me a lot... now I am motivated for cleaning and fitness and have much more energy... I really like your channel 🤗 thank you for beeing honest and real 💚
I love that you are so real I feel you sweetie ....i suffer from that to a also have depression and fibromyagia and osteoarthritis in my knees and work parttime and have custody of my 3 yr oldwith special needs grandbaby and I'm 49....god bless you
I think you've done a really good job keeping up with things. It was brave of you to be honest with your struggles, I always have waves of depression and anxiety so I can relate.
Thank you so much for being so open and honest about your mental health! Thank you for showing that it is a real thing to let your house go when the depression gets bad, but always know you will catch it back up when you finally have some "up" days. I struggle exactly like you do so i know the struggles you endure!
I'm a young adult suffering with depression for several years now, I just have to take care of myself and my dog, and ngl some days it's hard to even get out of bed to walk my doggo or feed both of us (often end up giving food only to my dog), so i feel you and i'm very very proud you manage to take care of a whole family We got this, even if there are some relapses, we're strong and we'll get through them !
The minimal mom, who is awesome, says if you’re still overwhelmed in your home, you just keep reducing inventory until you get to where you can easily manage everything. You did a great first pass through your home, just keep going!
I just recently stumbled onto you and I'm so thankful I did. It's such a struggle and to add kids and life on top of it. Ugh just wanted to say thank you and your doing friggin awesome!
Decluttering & organizing is ongoing! You are doing an awesome job so don't beat yourself up. Sending hugs & understanding when depression clouds your day - the sun will shine again!
I think you are too hard on yourself. You and your family have done a great job (coming from someone who has yet to START decluttering LOL)!! Take care of yourself!
Hi Shannon, I'm in the UK so only just getting to watch your video. Please be gentle on yourself. You are doing the best you can and tbh, your kids look happy and healthy and so you must be doing a great job of being their Mama. I totally understand the depression thing and the physical health not being so good. I just hope that you get some answers soon. Sending you lots of love, lovely lady. XXXXXX
I also live with anxiety, depression and adhd (NOT the hyperactive superdoer kind, no….), and decluttering more and more and working out good organisation for the stuff that i do have has helped my mental health enourmously!, i have 2 kids, and have lots of areas like books, stationery, plants, mugs etc where I am faaar from minimalist, but I try to minimize and ”rationalize” other areas like I keep my clothes to mostly black or marine with a few accents, which means its easy to match and buy, i don’t Keep overstock, i limit decor and Well just minimize items in the kitchen, cleaning cupboard etc. This also means that my weekly cleaning or nightly reset is (almost) always fairly easy because there’s just not that much stuff that can go everywhere. And I undrstand that you DO need to Keep a fair amoumt of stuff for homeschooling, but there are minimalist homeschooling moms too that I’m sure can give you tips for that exact area. For other areas you are more than welcome to talk to me if you like. I’m just an ordinary mom from Sweden, who’s been and sometimes sure still are where you are! Love!,,
Awe, thanks for sharing all this. As I finished up another space and started another I love feeling the peace a tidy space brings. It motivates me to get rid of more.
You did a good job keeping it in good shape. As I watched you throughout this video I could very well put myself in your shoes and body. That is exactly how I feel. I am depressed as well but the one thing that you have that I don't is a husband and kids to help you. I am all on my own. My husband does not understand what it means to be depressed and have to live through it. It brings you down and exactly as you said you don't want to get out of bed. I sleep a lot. I feel like I don't have any energy or know where to begin when I do want to clean. I can easily walk through my house but there is clutter on every shelf or available space. My husband does not make it any easier for me to do these things. He does not like the same things I do. I have been wanting to move some things around and he used to do that a lot when he was young but now it is like "ugh do I have to?" I do take an antidepressant with a motivator in it but that only goes so far. So far I like watching your videos so keep it up.
Think of decluttering like peeling an onion, there are many layers and you will peel a layer at a time. Remember with children there is constantly things being brought into your home and things constantly going out as they outgrow them, you just need to keep going. Flex those decluttering muscles daily. As Diane in Denmark says even a paperclip going out is something going out of your house. Really enjoy your channel xxxx
Maintaining is a whole other story. Self care first, as you said. Your house and your selfs are only just started. It will get easier. Say something nice to yourself.💐
Proud of you . If you have less you fell less stres i think . I think you shouldnt keep empty storage bins . It will fill up at the end . Maybe you can make a program which is kids are included they can help you . For example mondays grace wipe down the table after dinner
Decluttering is an on going process (I have been doing it for fifteen years) it never ends. I don’t have kids but I do have nieces and nephews so don’t blame yourself for the kids mess. I do have scleroderma, fibromyalgia and rhmetoid arthritis so there are days that things looks a total disaster, but I have learned that I just have to do what I can when I can. Don’t be so hard on yourself, you are doing a great job. Love and blessings to you.
It will take awhile to make a system on cleaning up everyday. If my kids aren’t able to keep a space clean, we declutter more until our inventory is at a manageable level for them. It will get easier the more you go through your house. If there is a space you can keep a box for donation you can put things in there as you notice your not using them. When it is full donate it.
You have made HUGE progress. Don't you forget that. It has taken me two years to declutter as much as I needed. I suffer from PMDD and my family goes into survival mode once a month while I'm dealing with that. You are NOT alone.
I’m sorry you struggle with your mental health. I know how hard that can be especially as a mom trying to raise happy kids. I’m watching this several years later and I hope you’re doing better now. Hugs.❤
Oh my goodness! Your home is not nearly as bad as you make it out to be! Give yourself some grace. Your kids are home all day, you’re home all day and stuff happens that takes priority over cleaning. You did a great job in finding stuff that wasn’t being used. It’s the best time to declutter as you know what has NOT been touched.
I give you credit and appreciate you sharing about mental health struggles. I wish more people shared because it is NORMAL to struggle. NORMAL to have kids make messes. NORMAL for life to get messy. You are a brave woman and I give you credit for sharing on social media.
I love how honest you are! I had no idea you suffered from depression. Mental health stigma needs to be removed and we need to talk about how life isn't always perfect.
I challenge you to a new series about a second pass through the whole house. You could even incorporate that into the challenge. One box-per room. You could be the judge of box size. It is the biggest boost to my mental health. Decluttering has changed my life.
I agree! I think you should keep going room by room and build that decluttering muscle and then go back and do a round 2 for everything. I’m always surprised by how much I get rid of during round 2 or 3. It’s like the stuff looses its value over time and make it’s easier the more I re-evaluate that room.
I agree. I suffer from depression but it comes in waves and on a good day I can be really motivated to get rid of stuff. She really has a lot of stuff. Getting rid would help her in so many ways.
@@gardeninginthedesert It is so healing to our systems. Janet, (in the kindest, gentlest way) this is Shannon’s safe space. We are all on journeys and I for one am glad our friend has the courage to share her experiences with us as it helps us all greatly. The amount of stuff someone has is all relative, depending on where we live, who lives with us, our culture, our values, etc. One thing that’s helped us from the time our kids were toddling babies was gently asking people “please, no gifts.” The amount of things we acquire from others can be a whole house of stuff within itself. Personally, I love gift giving, especially with littles and a certain holiday we celebrate. When I look around I see mostly things we’ve purchased for our kids; we have no one to blame but ourselves. 😂 Oh and another thing is keeping a running list of practical things our kids need/ or would like, that way they can give a gift that really helps.
Your real life messes and emotions are so incredibly beautiful. I am sorry that it hurts sometimes. You are loved and we are grateful for you.
Proud of you 😄. Remember your not alone. Depression is a very real condition. Prayers with you 🙏
I’m old enough to be your mother. All my littles are long gone. But I feel like I’ve found a friend. I have struggled with depression for years but with the help of a good psychiatrist I’m more than able to cope. My daughter is helping me declutter my very messy home. Hang in there. Give yourself grace. God surely does!!! God bless you!,
Me too on everything thing you said isn’t she the sweetest. 💜
I'm sure a million people have suggested this, but dont leave the room until everyone does a 5-10 minute pick up, put on music or have a treat after- that way its addressed every day and doesnt have a chance 5o get overwhelming ❤❤❤
This video is hella relatable. Thank you for being open and vulnerable with us. You’re definitely not alone!
Do not be too hard on yourself. It gets easier as they get older. You are doing an amazing job. Keep up the great work.
This was not a failure at all. You should be proud of what you've done. We have been there and go there more often than we'd like to admit. Just keep up the good work, lady. 🙂❤
Girl, I’m sending you some hugs. I can relate all too well with how you feel. Instead of comparing the “after” to the current status compare the “before” decluttering to the current status. You’ve accomplished more than you give yourself credit for. Xo
I like that half-way thru you seem to start finding joy in the successes you have rather than focusing on the negatives.
Dont beat yourself up ...you have done an awesome job so far...stay positive...love watching xxx
I think you did a great job. Kitchen is always a challenge and teaching the kids to clean up after themselves is an ongoing process. Don't be so hard on yourself.
You are doing awesome. Showing up for your kids is more than enough. Hugs to you. I GET IT.
You are great! Remember that. Keep pushing on with decluttering. It’s like peeling layers of onions. Go a little deeper each time. The reward will be less to manage. You’re super! 😘
I always enjoy watching your videos. This is just the season of life your in. As the kids get old the messes will be fewer. Don’t be so hard on yourself!😀
Don't be disheartened, you are managing a whole household with 3 young children. You did such a great job decluttering, that was a huge lot of stuff gone. It won't take long for a maintenance tidy. Took me heaps of tries to declutter, fwiw ...
Thanks Jennifer ❤️
Dont be disappointed. KonMari says dont try to clean while you declutter.
You ate doing the work of several people.
I can get behind that advice!
Check out Dawn from the Minimal Mom and Dana K. White. Less inventory to manage is definitely key! You’ve got this!
Thank you for being brave and for sharing,,,, we are proud of you ,
At least your husband puts them in the cabinet!! I call that a win 😂!! I honestly feel your pain and find motivation in your videos. Thank you and keep up your spirits and good work.
So good that are you feeling better and have energy again!
Shannon you do a fantastic job of taking care of your kids!!! Stay strong ❤
Cleaning a mess can wait until you feel better 🤗
You have NOT failed! You've done absolutely amazing on decluttering! It's a process and a journey and you're still living in your house! Nothing stays instagram worthy for long if you have to actually live your life there! Since your whole family is still learning how to declutter, it is absolutely normal that it won't look spotless every single day. But as far as I am concerned the "messes" are very small ones that are quickly cleaned up and that will grow smaller and smaller as you all get into the cleaning and decluttering habit. Don't be so hard on yourself, be proud of what you've achieved!
Thank you so much for this! I needed to hear it.
My mom struggled with depression when I was a child. I do know what going into survival mode means for a family... Today, though, I am a grateful daughter who tries to help mom and dad as much as I can. Your efforts -yours and his - will be acknowledged and thanked for once your kids grow up. Do not give up. Be very proud of yourself. Hugs and blessings going your way.
I just started watching your videos. Thank you for real life videos. Take care of yourself and give yourself grace.
So thankful I found your channel. I have been stuck and overwhelmed trying to figure out how to organize my craft room and make it a place that is peaceful and inviting, to me, instead of overwhelming, disorganized and confusing. I've watched a million craft room tour videos, hoping that would help. It hasn't. At all. It wasn't until I found your channel that I actually got started. Everyone shows the "after" picture. Your channel is the first one I found that is honest enough to show the "before" - the stage where I am. I just can't thank you enough. Your honesty has been a great help to me. Thank you so much!!
Thank you for this sweet comment. So happy to have you over here on my channel
I really appreciate your honesty and transparency. It just makes us that more supportive of you 🙏✨💕
This means more than you know ❤️❤️❤️
You are not alone. I also struggle with depression and anxiety. I buy my kids to many toys because I feel guilty that they are stuck with me, which in turn adds to the clutter.
We sometimes do a pickup party. Blast some upbeat music, turn on the party light and clean as fast as you can for 15 minutes. Everyone joins in. Then we sit down and watch a movie or show and have a treat for a job well done. Bedtime after and then you can wake up to a clean home.
Thank you! Finally, reality! I relate on so many levels.
Why would anyone bash you ❤.
My tips to you is to have the children to put away their stuff each day before dinner or before they get to watch tv. Then they learn to clean up as the go during the day so it is not to much in the evning. And if they don't do it, put the stuff that is not put away in a garbage bag and set it aside for a week. 🙂
Here in Sweden we gave a tradition of getting candy on Saturdays. And in my family we had to clean our rooms before getting our allowance and going to the store to buy the candy. The cleaning involved tidying up, making the bed, dusting, vacuuming. And kids can do that att all ages, with some help when they are really young.
I still remember being proud of cleaning my room and how good I felt when I was able to get my allowance and go and buy Saturday candy. And I was not allowed to spend all the money on candy, had to save some in my piggy bank and when it was full going to the bank and deposit it in my bank account.
I'm glad that I am not alonewith depression
I often stop and think how boring life would be if I was perfect.
Come on! The rooms look great! You are ALWAYS gonna have stuff on the floor with kids. The fact that you decluttered has helped lessen the messes tremendously. Cut yourself some slack...
F/T job #1: Stay home mom
F/T job #2: Homeschool mom
F/T job #3: RUclipsr
AND you said you have a business!! 🤦♀️Jeesh. I’m exhausted just thinking about it. LOL. You are doing a GREAT JOB! Praying for you! You’re one of my new favorite channels!❤️
I needed to hear this, thank you so much. I think sometimes I forget just how much I do. Depression does it’s best to make you feel like a failure when your far from it.
It's not too bad. You could have showed the original room, the clean room and then now. Most major declutters take multiple times to really clear space. You should be proud of yourself!
It really was awesome. Alot was maintained! Good job. I cant wait to declutter.
I've been a minimalist for 10 years now and I still declutter ALL. THE. TIME. Like literally every week I find stuff to get rid of. It's totally normal to find things to declutter as time goes on and life evolves, even if you've already decluttered that area. And I'm only one person, let alone an entire family like you guys! Absolutely no shame in going through areas multiple times - in fact, I think it's something that should be praised because you're learning more about what you and your family needs and trusting yourself that you will be okay to let that item go. Anyway, I love your channel! Hope you have an amazing day today and God bless!!!
This makes me feel better. It’s definitely been a learning process. Do you keep a donate box somewhere in your home or in each room? Any tips on decluttering as you go?
@@LeafLikeOnATree Yes! I have a place where I gather stuff to be donated and that helps a lot. (I have a small apartment so I can get away with one box.) I would say the things that have helped me the most are setting realistic goals, determining my "why" for decluttering, and stopping the influx of items as much as I can. And realizing/accepting that there is not an endpoint, it's a lifestyle. I also like watching videos and reading blogs - Erica Lucas, Dawn the Minimal Mom, and Becoming Minimalist are my faves. But definitely the best part is that you make the rules!! No wrong answers and no pressure to "get it done"!
I am just getting familiar with your channel. Your honesty and authenticity are impressive.
Thank you for sharing your real life with us. I have thyroid issues and when my children were little all my energy went into work and taking care of them so, I completely understand. It is so helpful for others to see they’re not alone in struggling to deal with housekeeping issues.
Ah thanks for sharing your struggle too. We need to stop putting so much pressure on ourselves, don't we.
I totally understand what you’re going through sweetheart- I also have depression and anxiety. It’s so hard to keep everything clean when you have 3 young children going behind you making messes! When my 3 children were young I told them I had 3 rules- 1. Dirty dishes in the sink or dishwasher 2. Trash in the trash can 3. Dirty clothes in the hamper. I also made a rule for myself to clean as I go. I spent a few minutes at the end of the day to tidy up each room just mainly putting things back where they belong. Make a specific spot for everything that you know where you want everything to stay. This really helped me keep my sanity over the years! I hope this helps you
This does help! Thanks ❤️
Good job getting rid of extra junk.
I think you were being to hard on yourself! You were right , the rooms weren't that bad ...they just needed some tiding. Hugs!!!
My husband is a contractor and fixes things for other people all day and my honey do list hardly ever gets done :(
I think it takes time to get in a tidy grove. It’s an adjustment for everyone. Take care of you! Just a thought... you could pick up the hall and put everything in a dark bag that your kids won’t need. Put the bag in your closet and see if life goes on without that stuff😊
You have done a great job!
Thank you for sharing that it's not all fun and charming as most depict.. real life happens, real feelings occur, and we're all human. I have been having my runs of depression too and it helps when people share, bc then it normalizes it all... it's all appreciated and hope you have better days then not 💕
This means so much! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
You are honest and I really appreciate that! But please do not have too high expectations. Decluttering helps a lot to tidy a room up quickly, it does not necessarily mean that there will never be a mess again. Took me a while to learn this! Just keep going. You said that the first days your family did a good job picking up. Next time it will last longer, then longer and someday it kicks in as a habit and the mess will become smaller and smaller. You cannot change a habit from one day to the next. Needs a lot of self diciplineand patience. And actually I think some rooms were not bad at all. A few things lying around are just normal in a familiy with young kids. The key is that everyone can put it away quickly.
Print a large poster size photo of each finished room behind each door so that everyone can remember where everything goes and how the room should look - everything in it's place and a place for everything
I definitely agree! A place for everything and everything in its place. Shannon, get your whole family involved with this mantra.I’m sure they are , just follow up. You did quite well!!
I’m so proud of you ♥️ ♥️🤗🙏
Give yourself some grace ❤️ you are doing just fine .... big hugs 🤗
You said it -You can only do your best :) And we will go with you on this journey ! Love and Prayers for you !
“Imagine all the stuff I got rid of being in the mix” I need to remember how far I’ve come! Such a realization
The house still looks amazing! Exercise does wonders for my depression. I know how you feel but the dark clouds will lift!
I dont believe in failures when youve at least tried! And you my dear have gone way beyond that❤ you are so very hard on yourself....i totally get the depression issue! You are right ...the body reacts to what you do to your body! I have fibromyalgia and deal with this consistently daily! ....my goal is to one thing daily....that gives me the most success❤
You’re doing amazing!!! Don’t beat yourself up, you started on tackling the organization and that’s a big step ❤️
I deal with depression and anxiety too!!! Thank you for being real.....This was actually inspiring to me. So many RUclipsrs can be fake......You are very real and genuine. Thank you Shannon....We will get through this.
You must give yourself grace..... and it sounds like you are !!
I labeled our kitchen pantry shelves. My husband teased me, "Do you really need labels for the food?" No, I need labels so YOU put things in the right spot. That stopped him. And it worked. :)
I laughed out loud on that one😂 Thanks for that ❤️
@@LeafLikeOnATree We're all doing our best. You know what you need help with and aren't afraid to ask for it. Sometimes that's the hardest part. Now it will be trial and error to decide what systems and habits work best for you and your family for this phase of life. You've got this. 😉
I need to try the fill a box challenge,,,,I really like this way of decluttering better.❤😊
Be gentle with yourself. It takes time to develop new habits that will help everyone maintain the house. And FYI being super mom had nothing to do with if your house is tidy. Just focus on teaching your children to be good people and love the heck outta them! That will make you a super mom!
Awesome reminder, thanks ❤️
Maybe youve already reached this point before youtube maybe your slightly feeling it now but at some point youll plateau and then a rage purge will like implode and give you fire of a thousand suns energy where your emotions will just cut off and youll be pure logic and clarity and be able to just BAMF through the place and shoving things into the bin and to donate and not um and ah or second guess yourself. Being on a rage purge warpath is truly magical 😂💖 helped me push through the plateau and get back into the more refining decluttering and more final stages of it like organising and getting better quality things buying all white towels etc 😂💖
Shannon, this is a JUDGEMENT FREE place! I also suffer from depression but we are all here to better each other! Noooo worries!!!!!
Shannon be gentle with yourself, I too deal with depression. Be thankful for the wonderful hubby you have, who helps out. My only suggestion would be to have the kids be more responsible for their stuff. I used to always have the kids do a nightly clean up about a half hour before bed. It’s not gonna be perfect but nothing left in the hall or living room, most off the playroom floor. If things got real bad I would “quarantine “ toys. Remind them how blessed they were to have so much. Keep them put away in a tote for a while.
Just some ideas, I don’t think your place looked bad at all, just lived in. Keep up the great content 👍😍
Great Suggestions Maryann!
Wow! 300 comments!! So I don’t expect a response to this one girl. Just know that I ❤️ your channel & look forward to future videos 🤓🎉⭐️
You have come so far already! You are doing a great job! Just grab some boxes and trash bags and start another round, when you get back to where you started then saddle up and go again. Keep doing this till you are satisfied with how things are and how it is to maintain. You got this girl! One day at a time. In the meantime, get the kids on a routine of daily cleaning up after themselves using the FlyLady’s system for kids. It works, I used it with my kids. And you can box up toys, books, & games leaving some things out but majority put away then swap it out every 3-4 months. It’s like new stuff when it comes out of storage to the kids! My kids loved doing this because it was easier to keep their things picked up & put away where it belonged when they were younger. As they got older and learned how to keep things tidy we phased this practice out. Hope you have a blessed week! Looking forward to your next video. ❤️
I am so impressed how you deal with depression. One day science will be able to explain the hormon inbalances on an individual level and medicate each person for their specific inbalances.
I relate to this 1000% you’re not alone 💜🙏🏼
I'm a homeschooling mom to 8 and decluttering is ongoing. I'm always surprised a week after I declutter I get back into it and get more bags full. I get very depressed when I feel overwhelmed by stuff . your not alone and you are doing great. One thing that helps me when I'm depressed is to get out with all the kids and hike.
I love meeting other HSing mommas on here! Bless you for homeschooling 8. I will be homeschooling 3 next year and I am still trying to figure out how I am going to do it. I feel like I barely juggle the two right now.
I was expecting something horrible! You’re being so hard on yourself, the rooms look pretty good for having three young kids. So proud of you for this video. Negative thoughts and depression episodes are very hard to battle for me too, and cleaning has felt so hard, so this video was so relatable to me. I’ve been putting off starting a cleaning channel and this gave me motivation to possibly start tomorrow and do ANOTHER round of decluttering this week😂
You can give your kids some chores as well, since they are big enough to do some things. For example, they can trash the homeschoolroom or playroom while they are playing or learning, but once they are done, it is their task to clean their mess up. This teaches them some responsibility, and it will help You maintain everything. One they see how hard it is to clean something on a day to day basis they will be more mindfull about messes they make. This will take time and energy to become their routine, but it was always my job to tidy my bed, clean my toys and put my clothes into the basket of dirty clothes. You don't have to give them tasks they clearly can't do because of their age but start implementing some chores and responsibility in their everyday life, and this will also teach them how some things are done, so that they know how to deal with things when they move out one day.
I am older but I can remember how hard it was keeping things up with a bunch of kids at home. I grew up in a chaotic home and lots of mess in my home stressed me out too much. You seem to be putting it all on your shoulders, maybe focus on systems to make things easier. Keep all the little things in closets, teach your kids one thing at a time, you must pick up and put away before getting something else out. My kids only had one basket of toys at a time. If they were bored of it they could trade it for stuff in the closet. They did not have a play room that they could destroy. If you are always the one putting things away and cleaning up it won't get better.
Girl, your house still looks amazing! Keep that great attitude (even when its extra tough) it gets easier every time you go through things. It gets easier to say goodbye to items and others easier and easier to keep it picked up. Its a lifestyle change that takes time. Keep it up! I love watching you and love that you show real life. Life isn't Pinterest perfect, we shouldnt have to pretend that it is!!!!
I love this so much, Elizabeth. ❤️
You are amazing!💖
its ok Shannon. I have extreme anxiety and depression. I know that when it comes to decluttering we can do it together. Your doing amazing I wish you the upmost support and happiness
I felt so similar last year... then began to take supplement serotonin (htp5)... it helped me a lot... now I am motivated for cleaning and fitness and have much more energy... I really like your channel 🤗 thank you for beeing honest and real 💚
I love that you are so real I feel you sweetie ....i suffer from that to a also have depression and fibromyagia and osteoarthritis in my knees and work parttime and have custody of my 3 yr oldwith special needs grandbaby and I'm 49....god bless you
I think you've done a really good job keeping up with things. It was brave of you to be honest with your struggles, I always have waves of depression and anxiety so I can relate.
Thank you so much for being so open and honest about your mental health! Thank you for showing that it is a real thing to let your house go when the depression gets bad, but always know you will catch it back up when you finally have some "up" days. I struggle exactly like you do so i know the struggles you endure!
Great job! Love your videos! 😆
I'm a young adult suffering with depression for several years now, I just have to take care of myself and my dog, and ngl some days it's hard to even get out of bed to walk my doggo or feed both of us (often end up giving food only to my dog), so i feel you and i'm very very proud you manage to take care of a whole family
We got this, even if there are some relapses, we're strong and we'll get through them !
Might Mama does cleaning with depression and anxiety videos.
The minimal mom, who is awesome, says if you’re still overwhelmed in your home, you just keep reducing inventory until you get to where you can easily manage everything. You did a great first pass through your home, just keep going!
I just recently stumbled onto you and I'm so thankful I did. It's such a struggle and to add kids and life on top of it. Ugh just wanted to say thank you and your doing friggin awesome!
❤️❤️❤️
Decluttering & organizing is ongoing! You are doing an awesome job so don't beat yourself up. Sending hugs & understanding when depression clouds your day - the sun will shine again!
Shannon, you are an amazing mom and wife. I feel your pain struggling with depression. Give yourself grace and keep going forward every day.
Do you watch Erica Lucas' channel? She has been getting to sentimental stuff.
I think you are too hard on yourself. You and your family have done a great job (coming from someone who has yet to START decluttering LOL)!! Take care of yourself!
Hi Shannon, I'm in the UK so only just getting to watch your video. Please be gentle on yourself. You are doing the best you can and tbh, your kids look happy and healthy and so you must be doing a great job of being their Mama. I totally understand the depression thing and the physical health not being so good. I just hope that you get some answers soon. Sending you lots of love, lovely lady. XXXXXX
I'm praying for y. I know first hand how depression can inpack your life.
I also live with anxiety, depression and adhd (NOT the hyperactive superdoer kind, no….), and decluttering more and more and working out good organisation for the stuff that i do have has helped my mental health enourmously!, i have 2 kids, and have lots of areas like books, stationery, plants, mugs etc where I am faaar from minimalist, but I try to minimize and ”rationalize” other areas like I keep my clothes to mostly black or marine with a few accents, which means its easy to match and buy, i don’t Keep overstock, i limit decor and Well just minimize items in the kitchen, cleaning cupboard etc. This also means that my weekly cleaning or nightly reset is (almost) always fairly easy because there’s just not that much stuff that can go everywhere. And I undrstand that you DO need to Keep a fair amoumt of stuff for homeschooling, but there are minimalist homeschooling moms too that I’m sure can give you tips for that exact area. For other areas you are more than welcome to talk to me if you like. I’m just an ordinary mom from Sweden, who’s been and sometimes sure still are where you are! Love!,,
Awe, thanks for sharing all this. As I finished up another space and started another I love feeling the peace a tidy space brings. It motivates me to get rid of more.
You are doing GREAT! The kids will get it with time and as you stay consistent. Step by step, don’t get overhwhelmed, you got this, you are doing it 😊
You did a good job keeping it in good shape. As I watched you throughout this video I could very well put myself in your shoes and body. That is exactly how I feel. I am depressed as well but the one thing that you have that I don't is a husband and kids to help you. I am all on my own. My husband does not understand what it means to be depressed and have to live through it. It brings you down and exactly as you said you don't want to get out of bed. I sleep a lot. I feel like I don't have any energy or know where to begin when I do want to clean. I can easily walk through my house but there is clutter on every shelf or available space. My husband does not make it any easier for me to do these things. He does not like the same things I do. I have been wanting to move some things around and he used to do that a lot when he was young but now it is like "ugh do I have to?" I do take an antidepressant with a motivator in it but that only goes so far. So far I like watching your videos so keep it up.
This means you still have to much when its all over the floor...❤
I’m so proud of your progress!!! I’d love to see a take two on the closet :)
Think of decluttering like peeling an onion, there are many layers and you will peel a layer at a time. Remember with children there is constantly things being brought into your home and things constantly going out as they outgrow them, you just need to keep going. Flex those decluttering muscles daily. As Diane in Denmark says even a paperclip going out is something going out of your house. Really enjoy your channel xxxx
You’re doing so well! Try to be kind to yourself. The struggle is real and you are not alone. Loving the idea of a Round 2!
Maintaining is a whole other story.
Self care first, as you said.
Your house and your selfs are only just started. It will get easier.
Say something nice to yourself.💐
Proud of you . If you have less you fell less stres i think . I think you shouldnt keep empty storage bins . It will fill up at the end . Maybe you can make a program which is kids are included they can help you . For example mondays grace wipe down the table after dinner
Decluttering is an on going process (I have been doing it for fifteen years) it never ends. I don’t have kids but I do have nieces and nephews so don’t blame yourself for the kids mess. I do have scleroderma, fibromyalgia and rhmetoid arthritis so there are days that things looks a total disaster, but I have learned that I just have to do what I can when I can. Don’t be so hard on yourself, you are doing a great job. Love and blessings to you.
It will take awhile to make a system on cleaning up everyday. If my kids aren’t able to keep a space clean, we declutter more until our inventory is at a manageable level for them. It will get easier the more you go through your house. If there is a space you can keep a box for donation you can put things in there as you notice your not using them. When it is full donate it.
You have made HUGE progress. Don't you forget that. It has taken me two years to declutter as much as I needed. I suffer from PMDD and my family goes into survival mode once a month while I'm dealing with that. You are NOT alone.
We all have our bad days! No one is perfect! Sending good vibes your way ✨
I’m sorry you struggle with your mental health. I know how hard that can be especially as a mom trying to raise happy kids. I’m watching this several years later and I hope you’re doing better now. Hugs.❤