My big aha moment came when I realized I didn't have hopes or dreams anymore. One day just bled into the next of trying to pick up after everyone and I was so resentful of the people I loved. Shortly after I realized this I found Dawn's channel and I saw an immediate improvement when I decluttered. I could see the simple joys in each and every day and I can now look to the future with hopes and dreams in my heart for a bright future with my family. Thank you Dawn! God has truly called you to this.
@ember17942 жыл бұрын
I agree!
@christinathorsen42742 жыл бұрын
Beautifully said & can totally relate! Still in process of decluttering but am motivated 🙌❤
@Mary6872 жыл бұрын
Exactly this, well said!
@kelseyd41964 жыл бұрын
*When your kids can't have friends over because the house is a mess with too much stuff! *When you can't host events (pre-covid) with family or friends because of the mess *When you miss out on being in the moment with everyone else and growing those precious relationships because you're trying to clean mountains of clutter. *When you come home from a long day at work, and just walking into your cluttered home makes you even MORE tired. *When you find yourself wanting to escape your home instead of it being your peaceful safe haven. *When your family spends more time arguing about where anything is when they need it and being late to everything because your home is cluttered and nothing is in its place
@joycemoses24114 жыл бұрын
Well said.
@carolsailer13954 жыл бұрын
Yes!!!! To all above!!!
@TS-bd2vr4 жыл бұрын
You nailed it Kelsey! Spot on. I relate to all of these. 😔
@suegreenland59894 жыл бұрын
Thank you
@CopingwithGrattitude4 жыл бұрын
Yes yes yes
@samibaby89134 жыл бұрын
I have been battling the hoarding for years, im the historian of the family so i inherit most things from multiple lines of family. Moving took 3 to 4 of the largest moving truck. Last year we lost my sister in law/ best friend and within 1 month my eldest daughter passed away as well. Depression set in and my 3 remaining teen children struggled for 18 months. I found your channel by magic, some how i fell asleep and when i woke up somehow i was watching a your minimizing series....something musta clicked....its been about a month and i tackled the garage, built shelves , re did garage, purged kitchen, purged pantry, purged my wardrobe(twice), sent my second daughter to college and stayed while she purged her stuff to fit in her dorm, purged our living room, and now going back through again. Its definately layers. I have 2 good will boxes set up at all times, i have filled my trash every friday, bulk trash picks up tomorrow and i plan to have as much out as possible. Its amazing the anxiety levels dropping, the sense of calm with counters de cluttered, not even totally cleaned off. I play yer videos in the back ground while i declutter. The last area will be my daughters room which sits untouched from the day the paramedics took her. Hopefully by then i will have the space in my home to keep and put away what id like to keep, and the strength to throw away even a piece of paper she touched. Enjoy your littles, savor every minute. On the way to be a minimal mom
@jennylhenry784 жыл бұрын
💕 🙏🏻
@melindareuter10984 жыл бұрын
Prayers for you, dear mama! May The Lord comfort you with nothing but precious memories when you tackle your daughter’s room. ❤️
@corinnestauffiger56934 жыл бұрын
Wish you all the best! You will be able to reach this goal since you are building up your decluttering muscels 💪🏻💪🏻
@jomamablu4 жыл бұрын
Hugs, tears, and prayers. I trust you will find your peace and joy again real soon!
@brookewhite19844 жыл бұрын
Wow! Sounds like you're making a great dent in your home! Keep up the great work Amber!
@rachela.53114 жыл бұрын
The one thing that REALLY pushed me towards minimalism was how I couldn't take any pictures of my kids without having a mess in the background. I felt so embarrassed. Then I started noticing the general clutter and how often I have to move things around to clean, or how I was just organizing the mess instead of actually getting rid of things. My house doesn't look very minimal right now with school starting and a new routine happening, but I'm actually excited to get it back the way I want it. I'm ready to shake out a garbage bag and get to work!
@michelletucker67904 жыл бұрын
I know EXACTLY how you feel with seeing the mess in the background. ❤️ Now I look back at those pictures and try to appreciate how far I’ve come!
@frenchie17504 жыл бұрын
I can absolutely relate to this! Just the shear thought of moving one big mess from one spot to another, just to take a few nice pictures! I dreaded taking photos because of this exact issue. So, then I thought I would be smart and find a nice clean wall. Ha! Yeah right, until I realize all of my walls needed paint and/or baseboards. My husband and I worked so many hours, those remodeling projects where always put on the back burner. So, an unfinished home, plus needing a major decluttering overhaul was such a huge burden and very stressful. While we all work or stay home due to COVID, I would time myself on my breaks and lunches, to declutter certain areas in the house. After about 10 trips to the donation center with a fully loaded SUV full of things I never used, It didn’t take long to start seeing a huge difference. It’s SO freeing to let the stuff go!
@rhondasmith28043 жыл бұрын
I hear you as well.....I always have an eye out for the background!
@vazlet4 жыл бұрын
Every since you said our stuff is inventory that needs to be managed, a switch flipped in my brain and I see every purchase so different now. Do I want to manage this? Do I want to store this decor piece til next season? Nope! Less stuff in my home, more money in my bank account - its a win win. Now I'm working on decluttering the junk food and getting healthy. So far almost 15 lbs down in one month. I love you guys. Lety from Chicago 💞
@LisaPFrampton4 жыл бұрын
Wtg Lety!!!! 👍👍🏼👍👍🏼😁
@tgayer14 жыл бұрын
For me the weight is the final frontier. I’ve had success with decluttering, giving up procrastinating, and have made other positive changes. Healthy lifestyle is the last stronghold, but I am proud of myself, and I think that will help me to conquer weight as well. I’m reading Atomic Habits, which Dawn and Diana recommended, and I’m loving it. Keep it up! 💪
@linda84854 жыл бұрын
An interior designer I spoke with recently said she noticed that the Europeans decorate with things they use everyday and we put our "use everyday" stuff in cupboards and drawers and then buy decor. For instance olive could charmingly sit out on your kitchen counter if it was in a pretty bottle, along with your cutting boards, maybe a beautiful bowl of lemons, etc.
@EasyNaturalLiving3 жыл бұрын
Wow good work, sometimes we really just need to flip the right switch. Congratulations on your efforts!
@FaithfulHomestead2 жыл бұрын
That was the one that did it for me too, I started my Journey when I realized I wasn't enjoying my most favorite holiday (Christmas) anymore.
@lynnfarber64744 жыл бұрын
Yes, Yes, Yes! I am 62 and I have spent too much of my adult life and my children's lives managing stuff and not "doing" things and not welcoming others into my home due to the clutter or the need to clean, or to manage stuff. I have gotten my life back thanks to minimalism and you! Now I can welcome people anytime! I am starting a baking business and KZfaq channel. I take daily walks and kayak with my husband every week. I am helping my mom declutter and age-in-place. And I am helping care for an elderly neighbor and supporting both my daughters as they work and create a new business in this time of COVID. AND my house is always clean and my small and big projects I never had time for (mending, building a greenhouse, etc.) are getting done too!!! (And yes, I still work outside the home - I am not retired.) So, you are not overstating the advantages, Dawn. I would say to anyone: don't waste your 20's, 30's, 40's, 50's .....on managing stuff! Have a life instead. Dawn, thank you for your weekly love, support, and encouragement, I owe much of my new life to you.
@CastledarkDweller273 жыл бұрын
geez Lynn, you sound like as big a role model as Dawn quite frankly. i so admire you. but must admit, although im younger than you in years, i read all those busy-busy, on the go, crazy good achievements in that go-go-go life of yours and i just feel tired. like i just need a little lie down.
@corinnestauffiger56934 жыл бұрын
The point where it really hit me was to realise that I don‘t want my kids to deal with my clutter one day. We made this experience with my inlaws. It was a real burden. I just love your videos, you are so passionate about what you do and your thoughts just make sense to me. And you do make a difference!!!
@ch-lara23844 жыл бұрын
I was so happy that my mom started with „death-cleaning“. That is the decluttering when you are alive and able to do this work. Now she has time to enjoy the life 👵🏼👍🏼
@corinnestauffiger56934 жыл бұрын
CH-Lara That is great! My dad is decluttering the whole house in small steps even though he has not much clutter. But I am so grateful for that.
@corinnestauffiger56934 жыл бұрын
Teisha Needs A Nap Maybe you could ask them? Sometimes it just needs a small push in the right direction... (did not work with my inlaws though).
@sandradowd67324 жыл бұрын
That is really what motivates me, I don't want to leave my adult kids with all my junk when I leave this earth, it would be a burden on them.Do it while we are alive and well to only leave them the special things they would want,
@LisaPFrampton4 жыл бұрын
@@ch-lara2384 that's Swedish for sure! Cleaning up at the end of our lives for our posterity. I hope my Swedish father does this soon! They have way too much stuff!
@ahoardersheart4 жыл бұрын
I think that me trying heal myself of hoarding disorder is a clear sign that I’m ready for a more minimalist life 😅😅 Thank you for always keeping me encouraged in this journey 💗
@theforeverlovelyjacquelyn57564 жыл бұрын
@ A Hoarder's Heart You revealed your face... ❤️❤️❤️
@ahoardersheart4 жыл бұрын
The Forever Lovely Jacquelyn I did ❤️ I wanted to be brave for everyone who hides from their hoarding disorder! I’ve healed so much the past 2 years and God laid it on my heart to reveal myself 💗🙏🏻💗
@theforeverlovelyjacquelyn57564 жыл бұрын
@@ahoardersheart love love love your energy. Watching your journey let me see that healing hoarding is possible. Having a hoarding parent made me feel a certain way and very hopeless. It's beautiful to see that change is possible. ❤️
@ahoardersheart4 жыл бұрын
The Forever Lovely Jacquelyn oh my goodness, you are the sweetest! Yes, healing in hoarding is absolutely possible when people feel accepted, encouraged and not alone in it. Many of us have hidden from it bc we felt so judged & ashamed. That’s why I want to humanize hoarding disorder...so that we can heal together as a loving community 💕💕💕
@CULady4 жыл бұрын
Hoarders heart....Ms. ❤️. You are doing awesome job. Keep at it🙏
@GoodBadBeautifulLife4 жыл бұрын
This video is golden. Every.Single.Thing. you said struck a chord with me. I needed to see this today. Thank you!
@d.d.11264 жыл бұрын
Same!!
@lizconsidine97063 жыл бұрын
She's amazing. Same for me
@TheTateMod3 жыл бұрын
Ditto!! Thank you for making these videos and being so wonderfully warm and kind while you're at it. 💛☀️
@sandrawilson23883 жыл бұрын
I would love to sit and read without thinking about “the stuff” needing attention to clear, to clean. Working on this!
@nicoleprescott3234 жыл бұрын
Oh my goodness, you hit the nail on the head with the guilt of having a day off or a holiday off, it's not nearly as enjoyable because you feel guilty that you should be home doing stuff. But in reality, if you house was already in order with less things, you can enjoy those times off. I've got a lot of thinking and planning to do this week! Thank you!!
@judyzander36814 жыл бұрын
You. Make. A. Difference. In my life and thousands of others.😭 I look forward to the encouragement I get from your videos so much! 💖
@tangismith72854 жыл бұрын
I just have to comment again! I have to tell you, I came across your KZfaq Channel not too long ago. I sat down and watched your videos anytime I could. Sometimes I'd watch several at one sitting! I let all your words sink in deeply. You have changed my life! I am so motivated to keep going. My home already feels better. My soul is already feeling wonderful and "free"! I have another birthday coming up and am determined to make this next trip around the sun a great journey. I already find myself able to go into a store and only want to buy the things I really need. No more buying unwanted stuff just because. Yesterday I found so many journals I had written over the years. I opened one of them and began to read it but stopped myself. What was written in those pages was no different than the material items all over my home... They belonged to the younger version of me. Yes, they all served their purpose at that time but were holding me back from becoming the "me" I want to be now. They all got tossed! It was such a wonderful feeling! You are right... Time is going by so quickly. It is hard to believe today is September 1st! We cannot get time back, we can't slow it down nor can we purchase extra time. Thanks to you I am determined to make the most of every single,simple and beautiful moment. No longer will I be bogged down with finding a new way to store my "stuff". Nor will it ever take me 20 minutes of staring at my full closet wondering what to wear. I am feeling free already in so many different ways thanks to you! I am a total introvert so don't have friends to hang out with (which is exactly how I like it). But, I am so enjoying my one-sided friendship with you, your sister and Tom too! So, thank you with all of my heart! Sincerely, Tangi (Tan-G) Lake Worth, Florida
@bertuccigirl4 жыл бұрын
Tangi Smith Journals! Thank you for mentioning them! I was just thinking about those over the weekend when I found an old gratitude journal, and I know there are journals around here somewhere. I hate reading them! Lol. You have given me the bravery to toss them, so thank you! :-)
@tangismith72854 жыл бұрын
@@bertuccigirl You will feel so amazing and free when you do! Xoxoxoxo
@LisaPFrampton4 жыл бұрын
I do not agree with tossing journals. There's no reason at all to reread them, either, but they're amazing for our posterity. I wish so much that my grandparents hadn't blacked out most of their journals and tossed some!! It breaks my heart because I don't know their experiences or younger selves and their growing experiences along the way. All those stories, gone. It's just a thought. But I do feel it's an important thought. God bless 🙏
@bertuccigirl4 жыл бұрын
Lisa P. Frampton I think it is because I feel like I sound so stupid when I read them! Lol. The things I cared about and wrote about. Shudder! I’ll give it some thought...
@LisaPFrampton4 жыл бұрын
@@bertuccigirl I totally get that. I hate reading mine. So far whatever my daughter's have found and read really entertained them, although I was embarrassed haha
@jomamablu4 жыл бұрын
Dawn, when we moved to where we are living now, we came with a small Uhaul and our truck. Inside was a bed, a piano, clothing, a few boxes of special items - really not a whole lot. After living here for 9 years, looking back I can cry. Over those years we have been so blessed with "things" from cutlery to beds. Anything and everything in between. We bought our Master bedroom furniture, family room furniture, sitting room furniture and kitchen furniture upon arrival to our new place but people kept blessing us. We were/are so grateful! What bothers me is how much we've accumulated over time with "stuff". Since I began watching you I have felt like we have hoarded our blessings when it wasn't only for us but for us to be a blessing. I got on board with "minimalizing." I call it that because it is only keeping what I need (but it is more than what you suggest! LOL) We have recently given away so many things to our church yard sale where all proceeds went to a missionary. I have taken on a whole new view of things that come in my house. I can pass by things and "just pass on by." I am gaining freedom with each day that we can bless someone else with beautiful things we no longer require. God is changing me - it's just not fast enough yet! LOL But I am in process. Thanks for your input. You have blessed us with your advice, time, energy and your family. I pray you continue to be blessed above and beyond what you can ask or think. Hugs.
@malindabrown34244 жыл бұрын
I started with minimalism when I wanted to get out of debt and began listening to Dave Ramsey. Becoming debt free and minimalism really do go hand in hand.
@tgayer14 жыл бұрын
Yes! So true! Yay for Dave Ramsey!
@theoffkeydiva4 жыл бұрын
My husband and I just moved 500 miles away from our friends and family for a move. In the weeks leading up to the move, everyone of course wanted to see us and say goodbye. Bc we didn’t have all that much to pack, we were able to spend quality time with all of them instead of having to focus on boxing up stuff. As someone who has just handled everything thing that we own, please know that most of the stuff you have is not worth having unless you’re using it at least once a week and that nothing you owe is worth missing time with your loved ones
@jillmartin81954 жыл бұрын
Another sign - you keep watching this Chanel 😂
@nellieb42524 жыл бұрын
You make a difference to so many of our lives. Many thanks for everything you do. You truly help us. I love everything on your channel and enjoy all the different elements: minimalism, projects with Tom and talks with your sister. Thank you for all the time and effort you put in. 🥰😘
@conniefeltman31894 жыл бұрын
It drains your energy when it is junked up! Finding your channel was such a blessing!🌹
@MarielaMerino4 жыл бұрын
Minimalism has changed my life for the better ⭐️🙌🏼
@jaelmommaj87354 жыл бұрын
I love the pops of yellow in your background. I am working on becoming more minimalistic. Its very hard for me because I am a shopper when stressed and I also like to decorate. I have gotten rid of soooo much , but still have so much more to get rid of.
@TheDriftwoodlover4 жыл бұрын
Could be said by a lot of us, I’m sure. But I just keep filling boxes and donating them. 😀
@Smith-he6bg4 жыл бұрын
Maybe shop for good things to donate? If you find ar eally good deal, buy it to donate it. That way you're getting to enjoy your shopping hobby for a great cause!
@nicole11844 жыл бұрын
1234 Smith Genius!
@christined24954 жыл бұрын
Dawn, you are just such a sweet human being, when you got choked up filming this video, you made me cry. You have helped so many people in their journey into minimalism. Life can be so peaceful, less stressful, and easy with only owing what one needs or uses and loves .It is 4 years for me, the first time I decided to donate a box of things I didn’t need anymore, and I still find things to donate to this day, you develop a decluttering muscle, and you find out you don’t need much to be happy, actually the less we own the more we appreciate what we do have. Your right People only use 20% of what they own, I don’t miss a thing I donated or gave away, not once have I even thought about it after it leaves my home, what I do have, I couldn’t live without.
@aliciakurti94914 жыл бұрын
You have made such a difference in my life. I would never have thought that I yes me myself and I could even think about being a minimalist. And while I am in no way close to being done and I know my ‘minimal home’ wont look like the stereotype, I love what I’ve accomplished and wish I had know this 25 years ago! Thank you 🙏🏻
@beckyeiselstein7464 жыл бұрын
Hi Dawn, I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your videos. Two years ago, I lost my husband and dad 7 months apart. I’m still in the process of decluttering because of the loss and emotional attachments. Watching your videos helps me to focus on moving forward and to strategically make decisions on what to keep. I’m still a work in progress but getting there. I don’t want to leave a lot of stuff for my kids to deal with later on down the road either. And when I’m down, your videos help motivate me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart♥️
@conniefeltman31894 жыл бұрын
Your home when you show rooms make feel relaxed ... AHHH!🌹
@anashappydays4 жыл бұрын
Connie Feltman ❤️
@dee41744 жыл бұрын
Yes, we are so ready. I have been putting this off till I feel well enough to attack the task, but that's never going to happen, so now we are doing it one box at a time and after a few weeks it is starting to show. Anyone out there like me with a chronic illness please know that you can do this and you will feel "lighter" as the clutter lifts. Sure, the illness is still there, but the house doesnt seem so chaotic while you take a week in bed to recover. A box a week and a no buying policy really works. X
@tgayer14 жыл бұрын
I don’t have a chronic illness, but I do have about 200 extra pounds to deal with, and I’ve been able to tackle it all on my own. 💪
@aleithea27153 жыл бұрын
I have a chronic illness and I have to always put things off until I feel able and I never really do feel able to tackle all that needs to be done. However, minimalism resonated deeply inside me and I have removed loads of stuff from my home. I feel liberated and now I keep looking for more and more stuff to remove.
@MrsScott-bx8sb4 жыл бұрын
Yes! And, yes, Dawn, you have helped make my life better. For several years, now, I have attempted decluttering, but my house was always still cluttered. I listened to other minimalists, but the ah-ha moment only came with your videos. You speak my language.
@jennieadlam60054 жыл бұрын
You have had a huge influence on mine & my Mums lives. We talk about you & Tom alot, it's like your family. Big hugs from Bristol UK xx
@fancyflamingo1234 жыл бұрын
Yes! This is so true! I am crying too, Dawn. Minimalism has changed our lives. I am constantly trying to convince others to try it!
@monicacollins82894 жыл бұрын
Dawn, your passion is so moving. You have helped me regain my life and leave the depression and anxiety behind me. I entertained company for the first time in five years because my apartment looks neat and organized. What a joyful day! Thank you, Dawn. You rescued me.
@aleithea27153 жыл бұрын
Congratulations.
@natblabla14 жыл бұрын
Absolutely Brilliant!! Get rid of stuff we don't have time for. Haha... why didn't I think of that. Thank you, Dawn, my light bulb went on bright!
@angelasnodgrass66214 жыл бұрын
A great friend of mine and her husband and son helped me so much. I did the decluttering myself but they and two other friends hauled away all the donations and trash. They say I inspired them to start decluttering. That made me feel great.
@gigics16124 жыл бұрын
I’m 70... and finally, I think I am ready to start this journey! I may never live as minimally as you (I REALLY enjoy decorating, and also think it is wise to have backups of needed supplies). However.... it will probably take me an unbelievable amount of time to downsize, declutter, and reorganize all this stuff. But I think it is time! By the way... I like your hair this lighter way SO much better. But you are the one who’s opinion matters most!
@TheDriftwoodlover4 жыл бұрын
Gigi, I’m 65 and have been at it for more than a year (lots of inherited things). It is so good to strip away what you’re not using.
@Smith-he6bg4 жыл бұрын
I like all her different hairstyles. I feel like saying on every video, I like your hair that way! 😊
@tangismith72854 жыл бұрын
I get so excited to see a new video from you! Makes my day! Your videos inspired me so much that I donated 132 items in last 4 days! It motivates me to keep track of the number. This made me mentally want to do more! Thank you!
@allthingsmotherhood32063 жыл бұрын
I cannot even begin to express what a blessing you and your methods have been to my life! I am a stay at home mom of three young boys and I was getting to the point where I would say to myself that just felt like a slave to the stuff, on a daily basis. I barely had time to enjoy with my family, because I was too busy trying to dig myself out of piles of laundry and stuff laying around. I was desperate. I stumbled upon your KZfaq page and started to implement your methods all over my house a couple of weeks ago And it has been life-changing. I finally feel like I can breathe in my home and what an eye-opener it has been to realize that we don’t have to have all the stuff! You have such a beautiful personality and the light of Christ really shines through you. Thank you for all of your help and all that you do!
@angelasnodgrass66214 жыл бұрын
It’s made my life so much better. I am so much happier. I am going to get rid of more stuff. I have gotten rid of 75% of my stuff. That makes me happy. I sat in my apartment every day and thought why do I have so much stuff. I am so glad I saw your video. I am so thankful I found you and listened to your videos and Erica Lucas videos. Thank you.
@triciamcfarland88233 жыл бұрын
You are a true inspiration…and I got teary-eyed with you🥲 I just finished putting lids on all containers, got rid of ones I’m not using; and simplified our cabinets holding cups/plates/bowls etc. It’s such a wonderful feeling. Thank you:) Thank you:)
@darlenezeh81454 жыл бұрын
This is a great reminder! I have given away about 80% of my things. Was tired of crying because I could not find my phone , keys, shoes, glasses etc. Thank you!
@LauraForest4 жыл бұрын
Thank you for your videos! I watch all of them and my husband joins when Tom is on and says, "I like watching Tom. He knows what he's doing."
@oxymoira4 жыл бұрын
Becoming a minimalist was the best thing i have ever done for myself .. mentally, physically, monetary .. u name it .. so much calmer ..
@ninacobfeld62402 жыл бұрын
I’ve recently started watching your videos. We are moving in a few months to a house with less bedrooms and less storage space. I was having sleepless nights wondering what I was going to do with all my stuff! I’ve realised that for years I’ve been kept busy just keeping on top of my stuff. My answer would be to get more stuff. Eg I couldn’t find my socks so let’s get more socks! I struggled to find time to do extra things that I wanted to try. I always felt too busy to spend time maintaining friendships. I think I’m starting to realise that the problem was STUFF! Thank you Dawn. You were an answer to my prayers! I’ve been using your ideas and tips. I’m enjoying my clothes and house more. I’m finding I’ve got more free time and I’m looking forward to the new house and a simpler, happier more peaceful life.
@nancybarrett62664 жыл бұрын
Tks girlfriend you hit home with me. I have so much to be thankful & blessed with, but I'm living a hoarder wet dream & I'm physically & mentally sick and stuck in so much stress & stuff its impossible to find anything or even live a so what normal life. My prayer is to simplify & rid myself of things thats not helpful,usefully,needed & brings me joy.i want to be free & live my life enjoy my family & friends. I'm writing & sharing this for a reminder to myself so i can start today & never give up 9/1'20 Tks for sharing your stories & for giving us faith & hope .Sending love from Georgia 💜
@mwardtluszcz4 жыл бұрын
I can’t begin to tell you how much you have changed my life and our home. You are definitely giving a beautiful gift to all of us! Thanks again!!! ☀️❤️
@melissacarrigan79224 жыл бұрын
I’m finally going for it. I started in my closet and it’s amazing how good it feels to actually walk into my walk in closet!
@TheAtWhatCostBlog4 жыл бұрын
I could have checked every single one of these signs off on this list when I found your channel over a year ago. Now, looking back from a totally different house and mindset....I can’t imagine living any other way! Thank you for all you do!
@sweetnovember85314 жыл бұрын
I have been decluttering . I take things too the thrift store once a week. I finally feel like I'm starting to get somewhere in my life ! I started capsule wardrobes three years ago and I love it and it has changed my life! My husband on the other hand is not following suit and it's difficult. I'm try make things less cluttered.he just keeps adding to his stuff. All I can do is take care of me and my daughter.
@LittleKagsx4 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for this video Dawn - I found myself saying yes! yes! yes! when you were speaking about when having time off the first thing that comes to mind is 'I need to declutter this, or I need to clean this'. I am slowly going through things and it will probably take more than one round of going through the house and slowly getting rid of more 'STUFF' but I am determined I am going to do it this time - I am fed up of living this way. I work really hard and deserve to take a break on my days off. So thank you for your inspiring words xxx ❤️ Take care and stay safe 🌈Good luck to anyone else taking the big step too 😘
@kathryn5834 жыл бұрын
I love that you have a background in marketing... it’s like a secret weapon! Thank you for all the encouragement. You’ve been a life saver.
@marycochrane99214 жыл бұрын
Dawn, this video is definitely in your top 10! You have such a great gift of inspiring others. I have been on this journey of minimalism with you as my coach for about a year and I love the freeing feeling! I put all your advice in to practice because it is so good. You are a great teacher!
@cristinam.17644 жыл бұрын
I feel so overwhelmed all the time, I never have time to play with my kids because there is always something I should do or clean, I am willing to do the first step, to finally have time and peace of mind, thank you Dawn for all your advice and motivation
@jenniferbarney42204 жыл бұрын
I love that the 5th sign is hopes and dreams. A really great reminder of the WHY of decluttering!
@brookewhite19844 жыл бұрын
You can never talk about minimalism too much! You do make a difference in my life, and now I'm sharing about you with my other family members, because I know that anyone who comes across your videos will be blessed ❤️. I do hope you get some great relaxing time this holiday weekend 😁
@cynicalfirebird2 жыл бұрын
Dawn, you are by far the most inspiring minimalist I have ever followed. I don’t even have kids, but I find your process so relatable. I have been on my minimalism journey for more than 5 years and still have a ways to go, but your videos give me the encouragement I need to keep going. You’re a ray of light - positive, uplifting but also realistic and willing to share your struggles. I appreciate you so much. Have a wonderful day!
@jennymaske2942 Жыл бұрын
My Aha moment was when we went out of town recently for a conference. I’m usually pretty obsessive about only bringing the bare essentials at least on vacation, and I did my best to pack as light as one can for 3 nights with four small kids, but it still filled an entire luggage cart, btw suitcases, swimming gear, one single activity bag to share, bedding, a crib, and food (we had a kitchen in our hotel room). Once we got settled in, I did all the things I normally would do at home; I cooked, cleaned, helped the kids with schoolwork, we went on walks, and swam, while my husband attended his conference. We made some messes, but made sure they were picked up before we left so the maid could vacuum easily. But it was heaven! And I thought, “I haven’t felt this way about being a mom in a really long time; why can’t I feel this way all the time? It’s hard work, but I don’t feel so resentful all the time!” Then we got home, and simply walking thru the front door, I could feel all my stress just drip down onto my shoulders and seep right back in. When I thought it thru, I was thinking about how everything just felt simpler on vacation, not because we were out of the routine, cuz I had all kids with me 24/7, but because we just had simply LESS, less going on, less options, and less stuff to trip over. We’ve moved a lot, so I always felt like I’ve kept a pretty good handle on keeping us from accumulating too much misc, but I wasn’t always asking the right questions. So now I’m asking these type of questions, and listening to either these videos or an audiobook mystery while I fill bags and bags of stuff that I’m just DONE dealing with. So thanks for inspiring me to pursue a life that will feel more like a simple vacation!!
@annejordan7584 жыл бұрын
Every time I watch one of your videos, it inspires me to go get something decluttered! Hitting the pantry now! Thanks! 🎉😁
@paulinebarker69383 жыл бұрын
Thank you. I always felt like my house was messy and unorganised and I never had enough time to do anything I wanted to do. A year on, I now have time to craft, walk and learn new skills in the evening. I am debt free too as I no longer make impulse purchases. So happy. Minimalism has changed my life. ❤
@patriciasherwood73834 жыл бұрын
The power of knowing the why! Thanks for the clarity.
@MsSmalone4 жыл бұрын
We spent the whole weekend cleaning and fixing. I did get a whole car load of stuff to goodwill and filled half the trash can, so closer to minimalism.
@charisoconnell69943 жыл бұрын
Yes, yes, and yes to all those things! I started watching your channel last March and with 5 kids it's a slow process, but I think in another year or two I'll be in a much better pattern of living than our last decade. I could cry thinking about the timing because since all the kids have been home and this fall they're home as well, they all have a little more breathing room in their rooms, the hallway is totally clear, the playroom can get picked up in 10 minutes, it's just amazing. They have NEVER asked for anything we've donated or thrown out (I'm estimating over 50 boxes now), I currently have several totes more in quarantine, I literally share your thoughts with anyone who will listen!! God bless! Oh and I LOVE your Sunday videos with Diana! Thank you thank you for all this wonderful divinely inspired practical help!!
@lindamanley16913 жыл бұрын
I sent this to my husband! I am so on board and have been working at it bits and pieces. But THIS will really bring it home for him. We are in that place where we feel we can’t take a day off to take our grandkids fishing. Or if we do it’s a trade off- a day we did not deal with any of the crap on the never ending list. I LOVE your videos! You have named the monster and it must be vanquished! THANK YOU and BLESS YOU!!!
@rondap.3284 жыл бұрын
I watched an organizer on tv who said if you can't honor stuff by keeping it clean then you don't need it...after some health issues I realized dusting and cleaning was overwhelming ...so some of my stuff is now at my daughter's who wanted it and some is at the thrift store...literally as soon as I put it down someone wanted it to buy...nice to know it went to a good cause because the thrift store I give to has a food pantry...
@elizabethmacmasternorris82323 жыл бұрын
Some of these really hit home for me. I am a single mom of a 3 and 5 year old, and whenever I have a day off with them, rather than spending time with them I worry about everything I need to get done around my house because I have SO little time for all of that and I'm always stressed. I started my decluttering journey a few weeks ago to deal with a bad emotional situation that happened in my life, and the peace it has brought to me in such a short time has been life-changing. I look forward to spending the year decluttering and simplifying my life so that I can truly enjoy life again and start enjoying this time with my children more. I love your videos - thank you for the great content!
@jms90573 жыл бұрын
Resent my stuff? Heck, I want to light a match and walk out the door, most of the time. I'm drowning, and your videos are a life preserver. Thing is, I've heard this message before, but it's been presented in a condemning or preachy way that tries to shame us into giving up our stuff. You're anything but preachy, and you're so relatable. You make me realize that purging this house will be a relief on SO many levels, and that I desperately NEED to do this. THANK YOU for being so warm, positive, and encouraging to those of us who have struggled all our lives with "stuff" and desperately want to change but don't know where to start.
@mrsmadielkins4 жыл бұрын
I’ve been trying to declutter for a while now. Your videos have been so helpful! I always feel like I clean my house every day and have no time for anything else. I can’t wait to get to the point where I don’t feel that way and can follow my dreams/goals like you said!
@jeanerdman1433 жыл бұрын
Before I simplified I thought the lack of time to take a day off was due to being ambitious. It never dawned on me that I had too much stuff. Now I see. Thanks.
@kellymusum80724 жыл бұрын
I have been a minimalist for over a year and I love it. I have been newly remarried for 1 1/2 years and my husband had sold his home and brought most of it with him. It sits in our basement and garage and it stresses me out! I have been going through a little a time but told him this past weekend that we need to just get rid of almost everything and he has agreed. We spent this past weekend going through things and donating and trashing so much. I know that when this has been completed we will both feel so much better and we can enjoy or minimalist lifestyle. Love watching you every week.
@margarethunter25112 жыл бұрын
Hi minimal mom. Ive been watching your videos for a few weeks now as well as others, on youtube. Being a single semi-empty nester over these past couple of years, as well as hitting the 50 year birthday last year, has seen me sitting in the midst of years of clutter, messy floors, half packed boxes (hoping that perhaps if i packed stuff up i may eventually move home)and feeling as if the house was on top of me rather than me being on top of managing my home,and i didnt know where to start. Bit by bit im clearing things out, and cleaning things up im hoping the second part of my life might be a little bit more simple - and i may feel a bit more adult lol. Its the consistancy thats difficult, the constant having to clean, for it to stay clean. I dont think i could be a total minimalist, i like having things out, but there is alot of clutter, still. Thank you for your encouraging, happy videos. God bless you x
@MadSmokersWife3 жыл бұрын
I just discovered your channel about a week ago. I was immediately motivated to start with my own closet. I ended up purging and listing items for sale on marketplace as well as donating over fifteen bags to goodwill. I actually lost count, but I know of at least 15. I am a hoarder at heart, as is my husband. I can't believe how just that one little corner of my room that is now simple and sparse has made such a difference in how I feel! It's liberating! We have recently combined two houses into one, as well as inherited items from my husband's mom when she passed. I'm ashamed to say that we have rented a storage unit AND a room at a flea market (in hopes of selling some of the excess,) but our house is still FULL to the gills! I am hoping that the joy I feel from the wardrobe purge will be motivation to continue. I hope it motivates my husband as well. But we'll take all the prayers you can send up for us! I'm so thankful to have found you! God bless!
@natureselement75884 жыл бұрын
Today I get a day off work and I am feeling the need to do do do.. so I can so relate. Down time makes me feel like I need to work on home crap that is a major decluttering project. It's fustrating so so fustrating. ⚘ I need to get my life crap in order so I can live life to the fullest. This time next year I want a simple home easy to care for so I can find my life again. Without feeling like I am only living to clean.
@thecurlywarrior3 жыл бұрын
Yes, I agree. Instead of enjoying a day off or a holiday I was always worried about what needed to be done or cleaned. We have too much stuff. I have cleaned out my wardrobe about 3 times. I have cleaned out my sons room, bathroom, living room, office ( about 4 times), paper clutter… and each time I feel so good! Like a weight off my shoulder. I have anxiety / depression and this has helped me feel freedom. I’ve even gotten rid of books I’ve been holding onto since I was in high school ( I mean tons of books). Went from a 6 shelve book case filled to 3 shelves and technically one is for my son.
@anashappydays4 жыл бұрын
Minimalism has really made me so peaceful and content 👌🏻😍 it really frees your time to enjoy in the things that matters❤️✨✨✨
@pameehanson38664 жыл бұрын
This virus has made us rethink our lives being shut up in our small apt it became very small. My issue is have been doing this declutter for about 5 years and feel that in the night my stuff makes babies. Yet i open a drawer or shelves are empty. I came to realize my issue is not putting things away and if your not organized it seems overwhelming on some days. The hardest for me was my clothes and shoes, finally they are decluttered and because of where we live i can wear pretty much the same things year around. Love your channel and sharing your family with us. Blessings to you all and thanks for sharing.
@aleithea27153 жыл бұрын
Dawn u could never over state the benefits of minimalism. It is totally amazing how liberating it is. I can only describe it as ‘someone removing an enormous weight off my shoulders and off my mind’.
@marshabrubaker1854 жыл бұрын
Just what I needed. I've been feeling overwhelmed & resentful of the things in my place. I've thought about & joked with friends that I was going to call Goodwill & have them cart away 3/4 of my stuff. The turning point for me was when my mom died & I had to clean out her place. Yes, my sisters & I kept some things of hers & also gave stuff to her friends, but we also gave a lot of her stuff to Goodwill & Habitat for Humanity resale store. It made me realize that what is important to us & might be cluttering up our places, doesn't mean that much to others when we're gone.
@alexcarrn284 жыл бұрын
You are so right and I don't like your list because it is wwaaayy to evident that I need to "keep coming back to your videos". But, now that I have this list (that I still don't like,) but I know I have to write it down and paste on my wall so I will be forever reminded to open something and donate something. Or open several things and donate several things and throw away several more things. I love your videos, I love your husband's videos. I love your entire family. I tell everyone I know about you videos. And they (the people I tell about your videos) probably wonder when I'm going to take your fantastic advice and open something and donate something. Thank you for touching my heart and getting me to listen. You, my dear, will always be in my heart and the hearts of all the others who watch and learn and one day get it. Stay safe and know you change lives.
@paulaboynton82994 жыл бұрын
Dawn, I love your channel. I have been decluttering for over 2 years. It takes time. Drawers, closets, the basement, the garage. I JUST got the shed cleaned out on Friday. I swept the shed floor and felt like dancing with the broom. I have made many, many trips to the landfill and the Salvation Army. I have been through each room, life is improving with each accomplishment. Thank you!
@lisagavin34024 жыл бұрын
You hit a nerve Dawn. It's guilt, guilt, guilt! I am so ashamed that I bought so much "stuff". Ironically, I am ashamed of all of the storage containers to store my "stuff". I have been decluttering, and now I have empty storage containers that no one wants. (nice ones, too 😫) The thrift stores don't want them.
@amydillardGypsySoul4 жыл бұрын
Dawn your sister is not the only Minister in the family! You are helping people every day with the work you do. Thank you!
@mbbee834 жыл бұрын
Minimizing to less stuff made us realize our house is too big. We're now getting ready to move and downsize (to half the size!) and I am so calm about the process and the move. We're planning on taking over what we love and getting rid of the rest, this is giving us a great chance to make a huge change. Thank you to you all for being such a great encouragement!
@elizabethw45194 жыл бұрын
I checked all your boxes!! I am SO ready. I’ve been brutal in my wardrobe, but what about the tons of books and greeting cards from long ago and passes on friends and relatives. My sewing room is a disaster since I am the lone sewingista in both sides of the family so I get all of grandma’s and great aunts sewing stash from years ago. Aahhhhh!!!!! I’m overwhelmed
@shanleighpiemontesi11074 жыл бұрын
Hi from a fellow sewist! My recommendation is to check out facebook & see if u have a Local Sewing Destash group or maybe a quilting group (if you have lots of quilting cottons for example). If you are honest with yourself, your fabric/sewing clutter is probably stealing your joy of sewing from you? I think maybe the "dump all the fabric on the bed in one go method" will help you to see everything you have & find duplicates etc. U can then check each piece for damage as you pick it up (fabric with elastaine in it can "perish" over time, fishmoths/silverfish can eat holes, mould & mustiness can even be an issue, etc). Put damaged/unsalvageable fabric aside in one pile for recycling, stuffing dog beds, or trashing. Another pile for "keep" (the things/fabric that is special & fits your family's style, & that you know you will use in the next 6months to 1yr) & another Donate/Destash pile for the rest. You can then proceed to wash & dry & organize your "Keep" pile in a way that makes sense to you - folded in clear plastic bins (my method), or rolled up in bolts around plastic cards & lined up on shelves etc. Put the rest in labelled boxes as a temporary solution - but please don't put off finding a place to recycle, donate or destash those boxes, as appropriate as you don't want those boxes to stay long & continue cluttering your space & making you anxious.
@annesophiebeaudoin24304 жыл бұрын
I'm telling myself that I don't need to watch the videos saying how good minimalism is aha, since I am already so convinced by your other videos, but this again was a true blessing to watch! I started about 3 months ago, being sick of always seeing the same stuff I did not use but kept "just in case", and your videos really game me that permission to give and throw away my stuff. I can tell my cortisol level has gone down. I haven't felt this calm in years. And the other day a friend came over with one of their very anxious daughters who later said she would like to SLEEP OVER to my house, and had never said that about any other houses she'd been too. I can't help but think that minimalism played a role in keeping my house a comforting place to be in! Thank you Minimal Mom!
@cindikleine82643 жыл бұрын
I just started watching your channel and I love it! I’ve been trying to live a more minimal life for years” less is more” is my motto! Looking forward to all of your future videos and I’m sharing them with my five grown children😀
@annarepke11184 жыл бұрын
Did Dawn say, "sucks"?!! lol. Yes, it was the right word. On the wardrobe front. We sold our house a month ago and I packed very few clothes as we waited to get into our new home. We haven't moved all our stuff in yet as we are remodeling first. I counted how many pieces I have worn. EIGHT! That is even with going on a weekend trip, not just wearing my paint clothes every day. So much is going to go when we bring it all out of storage. Cant wait!
@angelasnodgrass6621 Жыл бұрын
You have made a difference in my life. I get tears in my eyes just thinking about the day I saw my first video of yours. You changed my life completely. I love my home now. It’s calm and peaceful. My clothes all fit. I love that. It’s so easy to get dressed when everything in my closet is an option. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
@annadunleavy58724 жыл бұрын
I discovered you only a few months ago. Although I wish it was years I am still grateful for what you have already taught me and opened my eyes to. I may not become as much of a minimalist. I grew up antiquing with my mother and have kept only what brings me joy. Your lessons of simplicity, decluttering and valuing our time to enjoy life has truly resonated. I am still on this journey and process. Thank you for the positive impact you have made on my life.
@julesbalfe80534 жыл бұрын
Your encouragement and perspectives have enabled me to live with SPACE again! True, the eyes register nonsteamlined areas as a disturbance after a while. Your place is gorgeous...to me the decorative pieces on your very top kitchen shelf and cups hanging below register as cluttered. Thanks for being you! Xx
@ashandu4 жыл бұрын
Love this video and I love when you get emotional because we see your heart. I think you are probably the most real, relatable influencer on KZfaq. I learn so much from you and I am so grateful for that but I also feel entertained by your channel too and it feels like a mini-vacation watching your channel. Thanks for all you do!
@findingfiforme38114 жыл бұрын
Hi Dawn! I found your channel this weekend and it is and (you are) fantastic. I am under a strict lockdown with my family in Australia and have been spending so much time at home that I have really begun to appreciate how we use the space. As a result, We have cleared a room to create a gym/martial arts room for me and my kids and after finding your videos I gave my wardrobe the most thorough clear out I have ever done. I love how you talk about minimalism and how positive but also real your take on it is. I am currently putting together the meal planning sheet as I have a similar system however yours is more streamlined, so thank you!!
@marjorierussell8674 жыл бұрын
This video was just the shake that I needed to get serious about simplifying our home and schedule. Thank you for what you shared.
@sandradowd67324 жыл бұрын
I am ready!!! I've been getting through the layers of my house for 5 years now, I took 2 weeks off work to organize and get rid off stuff, Finilly have a craftroom and realized I still had to much supplies that I have been giving away 4 boxes and one large box away!!! It feels great I want to keep going
@ECC966 Жыл бұрын
I am so grateful that I found you. You and minimalism are exactly what I needed. I have made it through 4 rooms so far. I'm exhausted but it has been so wonderful. My children are walking around saying wow everything is so clean. I am enjoying this journey!! Thank you so much for giving me the "permission" to do what I have longed to do for so long.
@karenorlando83304 жыл бұрын
I have been watching your videos for a few months now and I so needed to hear your encouragement and see how happy you and your family are with less stuff. My husband had a business trip to Florida for 10 days and I worked endlessly on decluttering all the stuff we've accumulated over the last 34 years. I went to Walmart's and bought 10 packing boxes: 5 large and 5 medium. I have filled them all and I haven't even started the basement! I already feel like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders! I know I'll be finding more things, but I am so excited and THANK YOU THANK YOU for your love of minimalism and sharing your tips and tricks! God bless you!😍
@gerielwell79774 жыл бұрын
I just subscribed to your KZfaq channel. I went through my clothes and I ended up donating 67 shirts, 5 hoodies, and 10 pairs of jeans. When I was done wowwww the feeling of not being overwhelmed when I open my closet door is indescribable. It feels great! So this evening I went through my kitchen cabinets...again got rid of so much that is just sitting not being used. Every change I have I’m watching you and your husband. You two are very inspiring!
@leighpierce42323 жыл бұрын
I definitely need minimalism. There’s so much guilt wrapped around taking care of our home, and I feel so inadequate for not managing it better. We don’t even have kids yet! Now is the time to make the change and get rid of that extra junk-mental and physical! Thank you for inspiring me to do that :) I love your videos
@kandyhoward17764 жыл бұрын
I really appreciate your channel! You are so positive and motivating! I don't know that I will ever be a "true minimalist", but I am weeding out and letting go of quite a bit. I am trying to recognize some of the blessings that have come my way since the start of this pandemic, and one of those blessings is more time at home (my sanctuary)! It's as if God has given us time to literally "get our house in order" and that has been my focus these past 6 months. I feel more content with all that He has given me and recognize that there is really very little that I truly need. Thanks again for your wonderful videos! I look forward to each one!
@carolynmyers98914 жыл бұрын
Thank you for these wonderful videos. I’m 60 years old and we have downsized several times in the last 11 years. I’ve given away rooms and rooms of stuff. But I’m still feeling this need to get rid of things. I struggle with keeping things neat and tidy . I’m very OCD. This getting rid of things is taking longer than I had hoped. I want to sew and garden not clean house.
@tammyi3634 жыл бұрын
I have been trying to declutter for the last year. When I think I have made head way, something comes up and I feel so overwhelmed again. Thank you for your encouragement to keep moving forward. And I have saved so much money because once you keep going through all the “stuff” it really turns you off to buying new “stuff”! Dang, it’s a lot of work!!!
@elizabethcarr52264 жыл бұрын
Your comment on feeling resentful toward your stuff really struck a cord with me. I've minimized a lot of the house, but the garage... Thanks for the inspiration
@ChristysChannelYall3 жыл бұрын
Every word of this is spot on! Since I have minimized my home I never have to worry about my home looking terrible if someone stops by. I actually like to clean...I know, I’m a weirdo lol...and now I barely have to. The task list has basically ended! Now I’m working on simplifying how we eat.
@jennifervolpe67184 жыл бұрын
Please keep sharing. I am 10 months into purposely keeping a more minimal/ tidy home and you have been an inspiration. This week I sat down a few different times and did nothing but talk to my teenagers rather than sweep or fold clothes or do something else at the same time. I could see how much it meant to them because I was looking at them the whole time. Thank you. Your message reminds me of Luke 10:38. I have been like Martha so long; she was pretty cool, and probably a great housekeeper, but You have helped me put the things and the chores and my shortfalls in its place and let it go.
@stephaniewright43363 жыл бұрын
You probably hear this all the time, but I want you to to know what an inspiration you and your sis are to me on a continual basis. God bless you and your families. You are making a difference!