Welcome to Day 5 in our Clutter-Free Challenge.
I’m so proud of all of you for signing up and making it through the first week. To celebrate, my friend Karen Ehman has offered to do a giveaway! She’s giving away a signed copy of her book, “The Complete Guide to Getting and Staying Organized,” plus a $10 gift card to Target so you can treat yourself to some organizing products. We’ll tell you how to enter at the end of this post. Karen will also be helping me moderate comments while I’m out of town.
Today, we are going to start looking at removing some of the clutter in our schedules. So let’s get started.
There’s nothing like a new year to bring hope and optimism into our hearts. This year, we promise ourselves, is the year we get our act together. This year we will get and stay organized, start exercising and lose weight! This year we will read the Bible completely through, make more time for family get-togethers, pray nightly with our children and have a date-night with our husbands. Certainly we are intelligent, competent women … we can do this … right?
But then January 15th rolls around, or February 15th, or if you are truly motivated you’ll make it to March, and then life overwhelms yet again. Sigh … it gets so tiresome to feel defeated.
I thought the problem was always me. I wasn’t self-disciplined enough, or I didn’t work smart enough. I’d tell myself I lacked perseverance, and didn’t have what it takes to stick with something. Basically, I’d beat myself up mentally and just give up feeling like a failure once again.
But then I learned this simple principle that changed the way I think: For every “yes” there has to be a “no.” Let me explain.
I can’t add something new to my schedule (like reading the Bible through in a year) without saying no to something else (like the morning news). You see, if I’m already feeling maxed out, how can I possibly add something to an overcrowded schedule? I only have so much time and energy. I can’t pretend that I can do everything, and just keep piling more on. That simply sets me up to fail. Some things have to go to make room for the new.
I imagine you’ve done the same thing. Most of us underestimate the amount of time things take. And we overestimate our uninterrupted time to accomplish them. I’m the queen of this. Here’s just one small example. I can never just run in and out of a store quickly, unlike my husband. If my husband says he’s going to the store for milk – he’s home in 15 minutes. That same trip will take me at least 30 minutes, and honestly, usually an hour. I have no explanation for this. My husband just rolls his eyes when I say I’m making a “quick” trip to the store. Everything just takes me longer.
That’s my reality. So, armed with the truths that for every yes we have to say no, and everything takes longer than we think, we are going to take a look at that master list of responsibilities you started a few days ago. I still don’t want you to worry about organizing it. Instead, can you identify which of those items are God’s priorities for you right now?
If that’s a hard question to answer, I understand. Sometimes we get so busy with “good” things, that we get confused with what God might really be asking us to do. You see, we can have schedules full of good things, but still be missing out on the best things. And by “best things” I mean God’s best for you at this time in your life.
When I get confused on my priorities, I ask myself some questions. Maybe these will help you too:
- What can only I do? (only I can take care of my health, be my children’s mother and my husband’s wife – among other things)
- What responsibilities has God already given me? (stewarding my faith, home, finances, talents, etc.)
- How well am I doing in those areas? (ouch … this one usually hurts)
- What has God asked me to do that I haven’t done yet? (ouch again …)
- What passion has God put in my heart? (for me that’s writing and ministering to women)
Once you are clear on your priorities … God’s priorities for you … then start to edit that list. I’m pretty sure there’s lots on that list you shouldn’t be doing. What can you remove? Is there anything …
- You don’t want to do any more,
- You don’t need to do anymore but it’s habit,
- God has clearly called you away from it but you haven’t made the break.
I’m not saying you should start indiscriminately slashing responsibilities from that list. Do NOT call your boss and say “Glynnis told me to quit!” Or email your women’s ministry director to resign from overseeing this year’s retreat. No, please don’t do that.
Instead, prayerfully consider if there might be responsibilities you need to resign from after fulfilling your commitment. Are there expectations you’ve put on yourself you can release? Are there tasks you can delegate to someone else?
Today is an editing day. Before we can find any freedom in our schedules, we have to de-clutter them. This is definitely a process – it can’t happen overnight. We have to trim our responsibilities down to a manageable level wisely. Then make sure we are only doing what God wants us to do.
I know this is a big task, which is why I’ve planned it for Friday. Take the weekend to pray about this, and really seek God’s will. Remember the lesson from Day 2? Ask God for wisdom and then trust that He will answer. Don’t doubt. On Monday we are going to deal with the rest of that master list. I’m going to share a new way to organize your to-do list that will increase your efficiency ten-fold.
Now – I promised you a giveaway from Karen. To be entered in the giveaway, please leave a comment. Please do not reply to this email or it will get stuck in my inbox since I am out of town. To leave a comment, click on the word “comments” at the bottom. There might be a number in front of it. You can make a personal declaration of something you are going to remove from your responsibilities, or just say “I’m in!” Karen will pick a winner and we’ll announce that winner on Tuesday.
Grace & Peace,
Glynnis
Heavenly Father, I pray for my friends today who are looking at an overwhelming list of tasks and responsibilities. Please show them Your will for them at this time in their lives. Give them your discernment about what to edit from that list and when to do so. And I ask that You protect them from guilt over saying no, and fill them with Your confidence. Flood my friends hearts with your supernatural peace throughout this process. In Jesus name, Amen
If you’d like to read more of my thoughts on de-cluttering and getting organized, I hope you’ll consider getting my book, “I Used to Be So Organized.” Available through Proverbs 31 Ministries, Amazon, ChristianBooks.com or wherever books are sold. Please note that as of today, there is a short wait to receive my book. However, I know shipments went out last week from my publisher and shipping time should change soon.
I think I will say no to doing everyone’s dishes! Except that I like the dishes done quickly.
Thanks again Glynnis for your leadership and guidance.
I’m saying “NO” to being the “solution person” in my extended family to help fill-in for the smallest and/or biggest problems they have. Seriously this can be several times a week and for some reason they think I have the magic wand to make it all disappear! I will say “no”, but without putting guilt on myself:)
I’m in… You speak what I think and feel, but I thought I was the only one who carried those feelings. Thank-you for this challenge.
You know how you go to bed at night, and tiny snowflakes are beginning to fall. However, by morning, there is two feet of snow. They were just tiny snowflakes.
That is the picture here. I have had to say ‘no’, as two husbands and my father passed away – along with too many things to say here. Many things, things that should have been priorities, had to be left. I just now closed the door to a ‘flood tech’, as a (new) supply line failed and the house flooded last Thursday. Once another matter is closed (January 25), I need to say ‘yes’ to what is needed here. There is so much that needs to be dealt with- one snowflake at a time. I’m grateful for your help, thank you!
Debbie,
Praying for you and whatever the matter is that needs to be closed. Thank you for the analogy of the snow-flake, i loved it!
I’m in! I wil start to delegate more on existing committees. Thanks for putting this challenge out at a time when I am in desperate need of a change.
I’m in: What a treasure this trip has been so far, I feel lighter, happier and bursting with energy to know I am not alone.
Actually that was my list of goals – including reading the Bible thru this year. It has been on my list for three years!
Made me realize my challenges aren’t so unique!
Beth,
I had the same problem reading through the Bible in a year. Finally, last January my husband and I bought Charles Stanley’s Life Principles Bible that you read through in a year. It was fabulous and we did it! It didn’t take very long each day and the added comments from Dr. Stanley were great. We started a different through the Bible in a year book this year. It’s chronological. Hang in there! God will direct you to the perfect process for you.
Cindy
I am in
I’m in too. I am recovering from a mastectomy and have lots of time to think about how to declutter my life.
Thanks for this challenge.
Jennifer – I am a 7 1/2 year breast cancer survivor (bi-lateral mastectomy) and I want to commend you for using this time of healing to become better organized. I also want to encourage you – you can beat this!
http://www.dailyaudiobible.com
is what my mom uses.
I’m in
I’m in….and with God on my side I can accomplish this with prayer and his guidance.
Amen! That awesome! I just realized the principle of “for every yes, there is a no” and it is so powerful. I believe God to help me get more organized. Standing in solodarity. God is able!!!
I’m in!
OUCH!! Being married, a caregiver for my 28 son with final stage renal failure, mom of 4 and 4 grandkids (2 being his) head of my own cheer ministry, new college student and active in my SS class, I have come to realize there ARE some things I have to say no to or remove from my list of clutter. THANK YOU for opening my eyes to the many little things that have caused so much clutter in my life. Starting today, I am putting a time limit on my social networking. If I a truly using it as an outreach tool then I am committing to get on, do what I need to do and get off. I know there are many others items I need to remove and will be praying for wisdom and knowledge this weekend. Thanks again for your transparency in your own life as well as the time to teach many of us who truly want to be the women of God we desire.
Amazing woman! I read this and it spoke to my heart. I pray that God helps you through. I too find that slowly I am starting to “refocus” and get rid of the clutter. It is hard when you are use to trying to attain that 100% in all areas of your life…. But God too has been speaking to me, enjoy every day – it is a gift… QUite worrying about the things that don’t matter. Focus on my work Girl!! So I am trying to be obedient – being a busy working mom, who has just began to integrate back to the workplace after God saved my life last year, trying to be Kind to myself and my family, and not to lose focus on the things that important. I also started writing a book – God is speaking through me. Please continue to give me strength Lord God. I know you saved me for a reason, I want to make You proud.
Vanessa
My pastor gave a sermon on New Year’s Day about the possiblity that this was the year not to add things to our lives but the year to let some things go so that we could become the people God has called us to be. It spoke to me and I am praying daily for the courage to let certain things go including all the clutter in my life, home, and mind. Thank you so much for this challenge and speaking truth into my life. Your words are so encouraging and motivating!
ah ha…such relief…i can say no
My husband has been telling me for years, that i don’t have to always say yes!!! He will be thrilled to know he is not the only one, and i know he is going to say “I told you so!”
Thanks for all you do! God Bless you!
Sounds great! I want to learn more.
I’m in! I’ve recently retired from my full-time job, and am now keeping my 6 month old grandson. As I do have a little more free time now, I’m trying to discern God’s priorities for my life!
I’m in!!!!! Thank you for sharing this process…I thought I was the only one who had these feelings, acutally, I thought something was wrong with me…that I might be lazy. Have a blessed weekend everyone!
I’m in and I am now praying and asking for Gods direction and help with guilty free feeling in everything I do. I am also praying for wisdom and strenght to move when God tells me. Sometimes I hear and than question is this really God instead of moving and believing it is God.
I recently said no to a huge responsibility I had at church. This was hard for me I think sometimes we think that we are obligated to do everything we are asked to do at church but I’m learning that God doesn’t expect us to max out our time and leave our family stranded just because its a church activity. Its ok to say NO to things…even at church.
Can I just say, Amen! As Christians I believe we often get caught in this trap. We desperately NEED workers in the church!!! However, I believe we are called to work as the body of Christ…all working together. Unfortuneately, because we are fallen people, that does not always happen and it leaves a few to do the work of many. We take on too many responsibilities and end up neglecting other things in our lives, family being a big one, which should be a priority. So while we should be active in our local church, sometimes we may need to take a step back and say no to some of the “extra’s” that get piled on. We cannot minister to others effectively if we are burnt out ourselves.
Obviously this has been something on my mind…
I’m in and I am excited for the MUCH needed change ahead!!! Thanks
Oh boy am I in! I have been looking forward to this since I first read about it. I thought last year was the year supposed to be the year of release for my family, which it turned out to be in unforseen nightmares with losses that are difficult to discuss which created mind and heart clutter beyond imagination. I thank God for this experience to become clutter-free after so much grieving!
I am sooooo IN
I have been convicted by my habit of not saying no and saying yes to all that come along.. neglecting myself, my house and anything that is worth doing well, is done half way because of the over extension.. Thanks for the words.. now to put my pen in action and my money where my mouth is. Praying for wisdom and strength to practice my NO.
This is the first time I have participated in a group study. On my list of things to do is to join one of the Bible studies at our church. I have put that off way to long. I look forward to reading your blog every day and applying it to my life. Thak you Glynnis for your time and words of insperation. Thank you Karen for sharing your time and your book.
I’m in
My pastor(s) are calling us to prioritize and Jesus is calling. And now this blog. Do I need someone to conk me on the head with a baseball bat? GOALS: The Bible through in 2012 and cutting out the “addictions” like too much internet and too many newscasts and too much shopping and too much of anything that cuts into time with the Lord and seeking His presence. i want in and I want to minimize and prioritize for He has shown me (O woman) what is GOOD.”
Thanks for caring and helping.
I’m IN!
Help!
I am ready to commit to this positive change.
Glynnis,
Just wanted to let you know how much you have blessed me with your Clutter-Free series. Day 1 which directs us to not only de-clutter our homes but our minds, Day 2 for aligning my thoughts, Day 3 to make ONE to do list, Day 4 with multi-tasking — you put on paper what I needed to “hear” in order to clear another obstacle. And the information regarding the technology on how it has helped us as well as hurt us. Today’s was very helpful, too. Realize this took a lot of prayer, research and time. Praying for wisdom on how God wishes me to proceed next week with my list, but also praying for you. Thank you.
I’m in . . . loving your series
I’m in!!
I’m in!! I need to pray and find out what things God wants for me to do and learn to say no when appropriate.
I’m in, too! =)
I’m in!
I’m in! I have the same struggles and frustrations that Glynnis talks about each day. I appreciate all of the helpful exercises. It felt like a weight was lifted off just to get my to do list down on paper. Now to prayerfully go through and really identify those things that are God’s best for me right now is really exciting to me! One little thing that immediately came to mind was my obsession to organize my existing photobooks with all of our pictures and start new ones (partially driven by that’s how MY mom always did it!
the thought of this task is overwhelming and to maintain when I don’t even enjoy the process….I’ve decided photo boxes will do just fine for right now!! 
Thanks for the help!
Ugh. Still overwhelmed with making the list, much less crossing things off of it. Need to pray!
Like.
I’m in!! You helping me get through so much with this challenge.
Thank you so much for offering it to all of us.
I am IN
This is so cool…I am weary of lying to myself year after year. Overwhelmed, but making the list. I can do all things through Christ…
IT’s really sad when you have already cut out most of the stuff everyone else is trying to cut out and you still are totally overwhelmed with “stuff.” I am already down to putting God first with an am and pm quiet time (already gave up tv, newspapers and magazines) and I still struggle to get that done. I try to do one praise (about God), one thanksgiving (about self), read the Word (God) and keep a Prayer list (self).
I do email and an occasional Facebook and that’s it. I spend so much time organizing my stuff I don’t have time for anything else. I’ve been in recovery from clinical hoarding for almost two years and have made great progress, but I still have too much and the best I do is to organize it or stash and dash when I get stuck.
The ongoing list idea keeps me from getting “frozen” and paralyzed. As long as I keep physically moving, I’m keeping it at bay, and my blood pressure down at the same time, but I still don’t feel like I’m really overcoming it yet.
I need more help with the discerning God’s will and the to do items. And “delegating,” are you kidding? I seem to be the one everyone else delegates to so I isolate myself from people just so I don’t take on anymore, then I feel guilty and alone.
I love the Lord Jesus and am a born-again Christian for many years but some days I marvel at how Satan uses certain passages from the Bible to keep me enslaved with overdoing. I am trying to read the Word to improve my actual relationship with Jesus instead of using it against myself to become a people-pleaser. I have to remember to be a witness to the Light without trying to be the Light. Lord, give me humility. Amen.
Katherine – I’m very proud of you for facing your challenges with stuff. This is a deeper issue for some, and it requires honesty to face it. I know the Lord will continue to bring healing to your heart and life as you keep turning to Him. This is a long process, so be encouraged by small victories. And remember, you can only do one thing at a time. So make one decision, then go to the next. One of my daughters can “organize” for hours and leave more mess than when she started. So I tell her to pick up one items and put it up. Then pick up one more item and do the same. This seems to help her. Hope you keep reading my posts, and don’t be discouraged.
I’m In. My husband and I have raised four wonderful children and are now beginning to enjoy the grandchildren, but life gets more cluttered with the years. I can with God’s help and this encouragement do all things to get uncluttered. Praise God for You and your help.
I’m in! and so inspired also!
I’m in. Thanks for the helpful information. We need it as well as your inspirational words.
I’m in. I need to spend less time on the computer setting aside a specific amount of time once a day to get through the e-mails rather than checking back every few minutes.
Im in! Now, to learn how to not feel bad about saying “No”
I’m in! I have so much to pray about! Thanks for your ideas!
Get Rid Of Clutter To Do List Plan Schedule Control Organize Budget Beat Stress Fit Bless Prosper. Sarah C. Dempsey Lakeland Florida 33803.
I love the idea of seeking what God’s priorities are first. Looking forward to making that list.
Saying yes to others is the easy. I realize now when I say yes, I say no to myself… every time! Now here’s an epiphany… no wonder I am depleted and defeated. ” Let your yes be yes and your no be no” holds a deeper meaning for me today. Thank you. I am going to practice saying no to others in front of the mirror LOL! It will take a lot of courage for me not to be a people pleaser. Thank you for the revelation! Mary
I’m totally in! Looking forward to changing it up somewhat and feeling less oppressed.
So simple yet so profound.
Thank you so much for this study, I cannot seem to get organized and stay that way for any length of time ! Looking forward to making and keeping healthly changes !
God bless
I’m “all” the way in!!!
I’m in. I am gonna stop doing everything for my 17year old daughter . I am not doing her any good .
I’m in !!!!!
Thank you Glynnis for the helpful instruction. I’m in! It’s so good to know that I am not the only one who battles and struggles in these areas!
I’m in! Thanks for the encouragement and practical help!
Too hard to scroll on my fire, but I’m in.
I’m in too!!! Going to pray about what has to go to make room for the “good stuff” that needs to come in!
I AM IN TOO!!!!! =0) Thank you for all you do…for just being you!
Thank you so much for allowing us to participate for free for these few
Days. I have decided learned that only by allowing God control
Of my mind, will I gain the MENTAL order to gain order in other areas
Of my life. One day say a time, I give my mind to Him for his
Use.
I am realizing that I do a lot of things out of habit and now that my children are getting old enough I can ask them to help me do the things that I just had to do on my own before.
I’m in…ready for a full life…not a busy life!
I’m so In!!! My life has become so cluttered I don’t know if I’m coming or going!!! Thanks so much for this…:0)
I’m in….a little late getting started…but…I’m in and I’ve started!
So in!! Starting a little late…..but better late than never, right?
I’m in!!!
I love today’s suggestions. I am a pretty new Youth Pastors wife. I have been struggling with the responsibilities of being pregnant, having 2 small kids, working full time, caring for my aging mother, my home and family and helping my husband in ministry. I wrote down all of the questions you suggested on a hot pink index card with Stop and think it over… written in bold black sharpie at the top. When ever I feel overwhelmed I’m going to pull it out of my planner and pray. Thank you!
Wonderful idea!
Your studies are speaking right to my heart! Thank you for your ministry!
Too overwhelmed to shave down the list just yet, still adding to the list … but perhaps spending less time reading internet news and Facebooking to make time for the things I know I should be doing.
I’m definitely in!! This is something that I have been praying about, and the simplicity of a Not-To-Do list never crossed my mind. I am very excited to use these questions to weed out things that simply do NOT need to be on my list. Thanks!!
I’m in!
Thank you so much for this challenge! I may have to say no to watching Wheel of Fortune:( I.m an addict and a wannabe contestant. Other than Nancy Grace its all I ever watch…except for A Idol… and that starts next week…ok not maybe but its going on my NOT TO DO list. I just added up this TV time. WOW!
I’m in!
This is hard! There is something I want to do, but I’m now wondering if God wants me to give it up. I don’t want to battle against God and what’s good for me, but I really want to do this one thing. And it’s an innocent thing: organize my kids’ school papers and putting them into some sort of scrapbook as a memento. This seems like such a necessary idea to me and I don’t want to just throw their artwork away. I want a perfectly organized scrapbook of each year! However, I haven’t gotten to this in seven years because it take so much time….time away from my kids. This makes me ask another question: If my house were on fire, what would I save? My kids or my scrapbooks? That question might help me make the right decision on this. Actually getting rid of all the accumulated school papers would reduce a lot of physical clutter that’s weighing me down. Perhaps the mental clutter of the guilt and pressure I put on myself is even more damaging to me. Making a brain-dump list was easy. This assignment is hard.
Stephanie, I have an idea for you. I have begun taking pictures of my children’s artwork. Then I don’t have the paper cluttering up the house, but I have the art work. At some point I am going to use one of photo sites to make books. But at least for now, I have “saved” the art work. Another idea is to include your kids in doing this. This is a great way to find out what they proud of. Good Luck, praying God’s wisdom into your life.
Stephanie–And, if some of those school papers are art projects, you can make a video diary of your kids showing their different projects and then save the clip, but get rid of the projects. Grandparents and nursing homes might love some hand-made crafts by kids.
Karen, I agree with you, chuck it. I saved my girls stuff in boxes and when they got married offered it to them. They said, “Throw it away”. Oh well.
Stephanie, I feel your pain. I so want to scrapbook, but can’t find time to do it, so I am also left with pictures, mementos, scrapbooking supplies, etc. I have taken pictures of their artwork, but I still want some examples of their schoolwork, and I can’t decide what to keep. Praying for both of us for wisdom in this area!
I feel your pain ladies. This is my take on the scrapbook thing… I’m a perfectionist so I know that I can never start making them!!! Does that sound crazy? the reason is that I know that they will hang over my head and drive me nuts if I don’t do them. I have one scrapbook that I made for my husband on our ten year anniv. Every year, I pick the best pics of the year and add about 10-12 pages so there’s not a lot of pressure. I hope this helps you. I struggle with stuff like this ALL the time (to keep or not to keep, etc.etc.etc.)
As for my to-do list, instead of taking something off, I need to ask God what he wants me to add to glorify HIm! Prayers for you all….
Stephanie I have a solution for you too. I have 3 children. I have a 3 drawer clear file organizer on my kitchen countertop. When the kids come home & show me their papers, we put them in each drawer for each child. I usually wait until first report card, because that way if I had a problem, or they are looking for something & they say it was done & shows as a zero on the report/progress report, we can just look in the drawer & we’ll know right where it is. Good for papers that are specific to parties & classroom rules & such. Then we sit down together as a family at the table with a 3 ring binder & drop in page protectors & we save the important stuff, special notes from friends, great papers w/ Awesome comments. Having them in the drawer makes it so easy to put them in the binder, you just dump the drawer upside down & you have September at the bottom(which is now on top) & just start putting them in your binder. I’ve been doing this since my first was in Prek-3 and he is now in 7th! I put the kids class picture at the beginning of the book & usually can fit 2 grades in each binder. I felt so liberated when I did that because I feel the same way as you, I really wanted to have them have something from their past(something I never had to look back on). I do the same as the other gal taking pictures of their artwork (the bigger stuff that doesn’t fit), but I’m so happy I decided to take the time with the kids. It is something they look forward too and then you don’t have all that clutter. Hope that helps a little. Blessings!
Pamela, thanks for sharing this idea. I have one about to start kindergarten and I know the volume of papers will increase. I have been using the same system for collecting their preschool papers, but didn’t know what I wanted to do with them once the folder began to overflow!
As a former teacher, I think the idea of saving the papers until report cards, just in case there is a discrepancy, is great.
Pamela, that’s the best idea – that drawers thing….I wish I would have though of it years ago when my kids were little….
Pamela,
Thank you for such a great idea! I have 3 kids too! Only 2 are in school right now, but the 3rd should be starting Pre-K in the fall. I have been trying to figure out how to manage all my kids’ school work as they come in each day. This sounds like the perfect solution for me. Can’t wait to get the 3 drawer file organizer. I also like the idea of putting everything in binders except the big items. This helps relieve some of the clutter in my mind and gives me excitement for getting the school clutter under control! THANK YOU!!!
You are so welcome! That was some of the “BEST” advice I received many years ago & it really works for my family. It is so helpful in regards to lost papers not being lost anymore. You can put a colored file folder in the drawer too it fits for the extra important stuff, that you put on top for the day to day really important stuff (like the book report paper that is due at the end of the month – then there is no excuse that I missplaced it) for them to look at then it’s never lost, it’s always in the drawer. Have a wonderful weekend! I’m so loving these Clutter Free ideas!
Frame a couple favorites and hang on the wall, share papers with grandparents etc.–I did and my daughter wanted it in her home. Wish I’d made a copy of it to frame.
Stephanie,
My kids come home with tons of papers since pre K,I have plastic file folder boxes in a downstairs closet with a file folder labled for each grade, Once the folder gets full the kids toss stuff. I toss stuff as it comes in unless it has their handprint or they have drawn it and written a story, or they came home of it really proud. Somethings they love more than other things, I definately save those
Stephanie – here’s what I did, and how it turned out. I just kept a plastic storage tote for each child, with their name on it. Some of their artwork graced the refrigerator for a time, but eventually made it to the tote. My children are now 15, 18, and almost 21. Last summer, we pulled out the totes and spent hours, yes HOURS, going through them. Each child chose things to keep from their tote, and things to purge (I had some veto power on the purges). We trimmed it down to just one tote, but the memory of all 3 sitting there going through their totes and re-living some of their school memories is priceless!
I have 3 little girls too, and I keep everything they bring home. I have a spot in my room thats just piles of papers and it drives my husband crazy but I can not seem to throw them out. I love the idea of tubs and then folders at the end of the year. I’m gonna go buy tubs this afternoon and that what my project will be tonight. To get my corner back in my room
thanks!!!
This is soooo me! I am also homeschooling my 2 children and have all of their”school stuff” at home too-in addition to all the papers they create!! I currently have keepsake bins that I started when they were born but have lacked the time to do the last two years! I like the idea of my boxes but then I think: “Wow. When my kids are 18, I will have lots of boxes!! And am I going to burden them with these boxes from their childhood when they are just starting out on their own? Aren’t I saving all this STUFF that we can’t part with for them?! My 10 year old daughter has such a hard time parting with anything that I also need to help her not develop the same patterns as I have! Help! This challenge has helped me already in so many ways! Thank you and keep it comin’!
Stephanie, I heard someone talk about their children’s art work and projects. What they decided was to take pictures of their children’s materials. Not sure if this is what you need to do, but just giving this as information.
Stephanie – your words could have come straight from my mouth! I scrapbooked for a few years, then got stuck back in 2004 (yes). So I have a half finished scrapbook from 2004 and 7 years worth of pictures (which are mostly digital) invitations, memorabilia, etc. I am still trying to figure out how to convert from paper to digital and in the process incorporate artwork pieces. I think I am going to go have the paper art scanned into a digital file and incorporate it into the digital frame I hope to get running soon. Reduce the paper, physical pieces but still have them somewhere to appreciate.
Good luck to you!
I’m in – prayerfully. Need to hear from God what things need to be said “no” to.
Homeschooling a very creative daughter who produces mountains of pictures and stories every day. One solution (given to me by another hs mom) is to only keep ONE per day. It is posted on the fridge. The rest is recycled. At times she will leave the same picture up for a week or more, and she has also started hanging a few by her desk. I’m ok with that.
Try project life. It has helped me preserve memories with out consuming what little bit of free time i have.
I don’t think that I am a tv person. But I do find myself on the couch with my family in the evening watching THEIR shows. I think that I could use that time wisely and find another time that will be more fulfilling than watching Disney.
I’m in…
How simple to embrace the thought of not adding to schedule with out subtracting something! Sometimes I needed to be reminded of the obvious and this is ‘the obvious!’ Like a full pitcher of water, we cannot add one drop more to it without contents spilling out! I think like one of the above commentators mentioned, I need to look at how I spend my time to see where I am wasting time in order to reclaim that time back to reorder my life! Whew–am going to need the weekend to chew on this little nuggut of wisdom for sure! Thanks Glynnis!
Thank you, I have been ‘working on’ my clutter for years. This is SO HELPFUL!! Please count me in. Funny though, as I read the others above, being a Christian, I almost did not do this because you think, ‘she deserves it more’. Bless you Glynnis & Karen
Hmmm, I’m such a control freak, I think I’m the only one who can do everything…
Me to! That’s my major malfunction. I’m gonna be praying in that direction, and I’ll pray for you too Bobbi.
Me too! Looking forward to Karen’s book about how to stop being a control freak. I feel like I need a support group. “Hi, I’m Nancy, and I’m a control freak.”
Bobbi–
I can sooooo relate! In fact, I just turned in my next book which is on how to stop being a control freak & start trusting God!! When we try to over-control, we only cause ourselves heartache & head aches and make more work for ourselves. Praying for you this weekend!
Oh, what a great idea for a book – almost every woman I know – including myself, could benefit from that one. I’ll be watching for that to come on the market! Nancy, I have to join the group maybe we can call it CFA (Control Freaks Anonymous!! Ha!) Sign me up!, “My name is Lisa, and I am a control freak!”
Oh, this is so, so, so good. I already have shared this wonderful, encouraging insight with several Sisters in the Lord, and plan on sending it to all the women in the Ministry and study I am leading. Thank you, bless you, and keep it coming our way…we need it! Yes, THIS is the year!
I’m in! I had to do this recently. There was an opportunity at church, something I really wanted to do. But it did not fit with the priorities God has laid on my heart for this season. I have a great sense of peace knowing that I am in line with His plan for me.
I’m In. Planning to take time this weekend to edit. I will try to bring my focus to finish and move only to the next thing.
I’m in! Not sure what can go, but I’ll be praying!
I’m in. I am so bad about say “yes” to everything that I am asked to do and are left feeling compelety drained with no time for my family! I am reviewing my schedule and praying about what I can eliminate!
I’m in! Glad to be a part of this. And I’m with Bobbi, I feel like I’m the only one who can do anything & get it done the way I like it.
I have recently said no to a task I have taken on for over 10 years. Last Sunday was the day to commit for another year and I said “no”. I have actually felt that I should have said no for the past few years, but just now getting the courage to let someone else handle the challenge. I still have many areas in my life that I need to pray about and see where God is wanting me to put my efforts. Thanks so much for your advise and counsel….. and your heart to help women like me.
I was so excited to do a quick survey of the tasks and see that a few of them were easily answered as “yes” to questions 1, 2 and 5. That certainly helps me see the direction of focus God wants for me! It will still be hard to figure out what to cut out, but at least this narrows things down!
Your books title has pulled at my heartstring for years! I’ve been saying that about my life for the last 6 years! With trying to balance it all, I lost who I use to be & I’m slowing trying to find me again! “I used to be so organized” is my favorite expression even before I just read your first email 2 weeks ago; finally someone has wrote a book of exactly how I feel! I truly thought I was losing my mind & it was just me that struggles with all of this on a daily basis. Words can’t describe how I want to have that mental clarity again…. but with my 3 childrens’ different schedules & my husband’s spontaneity I’m finding that if I don’t make the time for myself I don’t get it! I’m important as well & the Lord has been letting me know that with little blessings along the way! Thank you again for leading the way back to Organizing from the inside out!
Today I thank God for the discernment to know what I am to leave on my “to do” list and what goes on my “not to do” list.
I’m so excited to see what God is already doing in my mind! Yesterday, a friend called me to see if I was interested in taking on a new client that she was having to let go. I immediately said “No”. I definitely do not have the time. I used to always say yes, and often regretted the stress it put on myself. Thanks for the idea of a “not to do list”. Now to put the to do list and the not to do list on paper….later……
I’m in!!
I’m in! It’s definitely going to take a lot of prayer, but I know anything is possible with God. Thank you for your support.
For every yes there has to be a no — what a breakthrough! And I will add, if you can’t say no, say no thank you. I learned that somewhere a long time ago but have never been able to make use of it in my life because until now, I have never had the principle in which that action could truly be exercised. Thank you God and thank you Glynnis. I’m in!
I’m in….not really sure what I can cut, but will definitely pray about it…thanks
In REALLY going to try! Praying for the motivation and a naptime today that will allow me to start my list. I’m thankful for the weekend to get myself organized enough to put myself totally into this!
I’m in : )
Thank you for your wisdom. I feel better already just after five days. I keep telling myself ” I Can do This”. I can’t believe I never thought of taking some things away before adding new ones, and writing down everything I need to do (very overwhelming) to clear my mind, but I love both of these. I can’t wait to see what is next!!!
I am in. I am also excited to see that many of my to do tasks can be deferred to others, mostly my husband. Most of my tasks include going through things and donating everything I don’t need/want anymore. My husband can do a lot of this too, except that he is a keeper and I am a thrower. This has been a great exercise that I am slowly trying to encourage my husband to participate in too. Thank you for this ministry!
I’m in! I cannot think of a better way to start out the new year than to get my house and life organized! I never learned from my mother who is a borderline hoarder. Thank the Lord for the work that you ladies are called to do.
This is so good. I’ve actually been in the process of working on some of this, and then, wow, you talk about it. Thanks for sharing!
I AM IN!
This is tough! Does anyone else think it’s tough? The things I’ve been putting on the list have to be done, mostly to get rid of the clutter. Can i say “no” to making the “not to do list”? =)
Patti-
You crack me up! No, you may NOT say “no” to making the not to do list!!!
ok… =) I guess I’d better pray about it then. thanks
Patti….That is exactly what I was thinking! There may be things on my list that are higher priority than other things….but it is all stuff that needs to be done! I definately need God’s help in this!
Thank you April and Susan for responding. I’m glad I’m not in this alone! The things on my list have to be done eventually. Maybe it’s all about dealing out a certain amount of time for each project. Perhaps we will have better insight before this study is finished. Either that or as my husband says, “back a dump truck up to the door and just fill it up.” hehehe
That is exactly what I’ve been thinking. Maybe I need to add more to my list in area of responsibilities. I was thinking more of the clutter!!!
I am going to take back my time by saying Thank You, But No Thank You!
I’m in. Great food for thought and prayer. Thanks
I love the whole idea of saying “no” to something else so I can say “yes” to something better! Thanks so much for this great clutter challenge this month. I really need it!
I’m in also!!
I love the idea of taking one ‘to do’ off before I can say yes to another! Somehow the scales have to balance. Taking inventory of how I spend my time would be quite an eye opener I am sure. LOVE the questions you have for us to ponder and pray about. There are so many good things I can be involved in, but is it what God wants me to be involved in? So thank you for helping all of us seek clarity for God’s direction in our lives.
Thank you for this challange. The Lord has convicted by heart while reading it. I am determined to read the Bible thru this year…something that I have never done. But all the while…I have been thinking how am I going to have time for this. I need to let some things go from my daily schedule, so I can have more time for His Word and prayer. Thanks so much for the idea of the “not” to do list. I will be in prayer this weekend to see what the Lord wants me to edit out. Thank you again for your wisdom and help.
I’m in and praying hard for His guidance in this process! Clutter should be my middle name and I am ready to change it!
Clutter, with a capital C! I really am trying to get rid of some. I still have Christmas up because I haven’t found the time to take it down and put it away. Help!
I totally understand Cheryl….I still have a tree up….for me it is energy…I have had some health issues for the past 3 years that have zapped my energy….I work, so at the end of the week I just want to rest….May the Lord give you the time & me the energy to get our Christmas decorations put away this weekend!!! I can’t help but think of Mary & Martha, and know Jesus is saying to us both…stop worrying about all these things and sit at my feet!!!
It’s the Best!!!
If it makes you feel any better Marsha, we purposely don’t take our tree down usually until Dr. Martin Luther King weekend & one year not until the first week in February. My husband enjoys his trains & our village & manger under the tree takes 2 days to put up usually so our philosphy is we may as well enjoy it! Blessings for more energy & getting back on the road to better health.
Thank you for sharing these ideas! Very encouraging!
I wonder why everything takes us ladies so much longer. When you mentioned that story about running to the store for milk….that’s sooooo my life.
I’m in! I need to say no to the morning “news”. I put that in quotes because the morning programs are more fluff than news. Don’t know why I’ve been wasting my time watching them. Can’t even say I’m folding laundry while watching. :/
I am definitely in. What a great concept: for every YES there has to be a NO. I’ve got lots of work to do on my lists for the week-end.
Thanks for these lessons.
I tried to post a comment, but I got a box that said “duplicate comment detected, you’ve already said that. Which I haven’t, because I haven’t commented today. Weird.
Wish I could help but I am very tech-challenged!
Im in!
I’m in….. and so thankful for this challenge. After starting my master list I was so amazed at how it really made me feel lighter and my mind clearer, just like you said Glynnis. As I read the comments its so encouraging to know that I am not alone and alot of women feel the same as I do and are going through the same things….now to trust God to help me know what not to do…and to get my priorities in order.
Thanks for sharing your ideas. It is bringing hope. Very encouraging.
I am in
No? what is that word?…it seems to be missing from my vocabulary list as an action verb–it is there as a “status” update to beat me over the head- “NO progress on this or this… , NO I havent done that yet, No idea where that is, etc….my list is so long …. having a detailed personality may slow the process- but I will strive to review and prioritize. Thanks for the encouragement.
So true, what timely comments for me. Thanks!
I’m in! My list scares me.
I’m in. Thank you for sharing. Today is a new day and I can become organized one day at a time…..with ideas from other women and God’s amazing grace to give me another day.
I’m in! Such simple thing, get rid of something before you add seomthing new… what a concept! Easier said then done. Thank you!
I’m in ,especially for the sake of my dear born organized husband!
My perfectionism and clutter have grieved for 15 years. I want to bless him, for the rest of forever, with an organized, simplified home. Blessings for all you do !
Grieved him… Actually grieved the whole family:(
I’m in! I keep losing things because I am trying to do 10 things at once!
I’m in. I have done a little of this already this year. I was asked to take on a big task at church but it conflicted with something in my home life. Instead of taking both on and probably dissappointing someone I said no to the church thing. I am still involved in church in other areas. Sometimes I think it’s easier in our minds to let down our family than to let down someone from the outside.
Haha Patti you are funny ! I was thinking that if I make the list, that is one more thing I must add to my list of things to do ! Now, what do I get rid of in order to make the list….
I know … right? There must be some plan. I guess we will wait and see what’s next.
Some great ideas and suggestions I’ve seen as I was scanning through the comments. Sounds like most of us are dealing with lots of the same issues. I’ve been so frustrated trying to get my family on board (and yes, we’ve had family discussions and chore charts, etc)…Mommy is tired of being the predominent one to get everything done around here out of 5 (plus a cat) of us! If EVERYONE in this house would pitch in…I think I would have time for the things I want to do vs just have to do. I’m leaving soon for my Women’s Retreat and plan on taking the composition book to work on this during some of our down time. Have a wonderful weekend everyone.
I’m in!! My to-do list consists of way too many things that aren’t part of what I have identified as God’s priorities for me… working on whittling that down this weekend! Saying to myself “My to-do list must decrease so that He can increase”… I need more margin for him in my days! THanks!
Hi,
I’m so in!!! Praying for my guidance, I want to win this one pretty badly!!
Thanks for all the guidance ladies!! God bless!
It is a true comfort and almost some type of break through for me to read Glynnis’ words that are almost verbatim what goes through my mind daily! Maybe I’m not a failure after all! I can’t wait to keep reading and learning more! Thank-you thank-you thank-you for helping this SAHM get some sanity
I’m in. Prayerfully considering what changes to make. Thanks for sharing.
I’m in!
I’m in! God help us.
I am in! I need to cut out checking Facebook so often. It’s a huge time-waster!
I am in!!! And thank you so much for all your encouragement and information this week! I love Karen’s blog and I am enjoying yours as well. THANK YOU! Not sure yet what is going off my list, but something’s got to!
I need to reduce the hours I spend on my iPad!
I’m in. I am going to really have to pray over this list this weekend. This is very hard for me.
I’m in.
I’m in! Thank you for helping us realize that clutter isn’t just physical stuff.
I’m in for 2012!!!
I’m in!
I’m willing to try
I have a hard time telling anyone “No”… time to learn I suppose 
Yep, I’m in :0) and with a happy heart, knowing that some of the first steps are the hardest. Will no longer check facebook first in the morning (it is part of my job- but will not take away from my family in the morning anymore.)
Excited to see what I can say “no” to! I feel controlled by my house and life. With God’s help, it’s time to turn that around!
yep! i’m in!
There is something in my life that I can’t seem to let go of–it stresses me out whenever I think of it, but I keep “renewing my membership” time and time again. I need to pray about how to let go of that–I’m not sure why I feel so compelled to stay in when I’m not even that good at doing this particular task!
Madge—Remember, just because you are “capable” doesn’t mean you are “called”. Ask God if you are called to the task.
I’m in!
NOW is the time for obedience. I NEED to be organized enough to write my story. “LORD, help me obey YOU!”
So glad we have the weekend to reflect on our list. Praying about staying motivated to get rid of too much stuff! To get something you have to give something up.
I’m in. I can’t find the email that talked about writing a list but I’ll search through my email and find it. I’m in College and I love watching tv shows yet have a strong desire to make scripture a part of each day. It might be time I reevaluate my schedule.
It’s quite daunting though. I work each morning and leave the house by 7, am in classes most days all day, and during the week much of my time is spent either working in the afternoon or doing homework. I’m also apprenticing with my church to lead a small group and I play on a worship team. Between all these things, we’ll see what’s workable.
Thanks.
I’m in! Thank you for all the the encouragement. I love that organizing is really focusing on making GOD number one in different aspects. I really need this had a horrible year and need to really focus on God and it helps to read about how to get the house work done at the same time.
I’m in!
I manage my money well since I know It is limited.
But with time…….I guess I thought I was Super Woman.. Able to do way more than time allows.
Off comes the super suit…..
Awww. This is going to feel great!
I’m in!
Trying to discern what I need to do
I’m in. Can’t wait. And Glynnis, one thing I love is that you always end in a prayer
Thanks.
I am in! I am so excited about this challenge! Thank you so much!
Love these tips, I’m in!
Wow! This was just what I needed to read today. I was just talking to my husband about this last night. I must say no to people. What I mean by that is set boundaries that I only accept “emergency ” phone calls after a certain time to ensure that I have the time to fulfill my personal responsibilities to myself, family and God. Thanks Glynnis this really helps as I embark on this journey.
I’m in… Now where is that list! Lol
I am so in! I thank God for allowing me to be a part of this challenge. I am also committing to the Daniel Fast at this time and it is so amazing how good God works things out. I am going to let go of saying “yes” to help everybody and saying “no” to helping myself. I just can not do it all. So, my husband and children will have to help out and anyone else will have to take responsibility for themselves. Have an awesone weekend!
Did this last week by NOT volunteering to write up the prayer requests for a new Bible study group (which is actually my forte). After mentally running through how many “lists” I was responsible, it was easy to just say nothing for once!
Good for you!
I’m sooo in and can hardly wait to see what He has for me! Thank You for sharing what He has taught you!!!
This reminded me of something I heard at at Women of Faith conference years ago. The speaker was talking about being overwhelmed with all the things we feel responsible for and that we ‘just can’t’ say no too…especially when asked to do something at church. We feel guilty for saying no because then we feel as if we are saying no to God. The speaker then said that there was such a thing as a “Holy No”. She basically said the same thing you did today, that by saying yes to one thing, although its a ‘good’ thing, we may be missing out on the ‘best’ thing. Thanks for the reminder!!
I’m in too. Too much “stuff” (sounds nicer than clutter) whether it’s in my physical space or calendar, definitely impacts what I do and how I feel about doing it. This is THE year I am taking control by weeding out and organizing what’s left.
Nice to have a plan and do this with others. So, this week is declutter the calendar week.
I love that you’re challenging us to get to the source of our clutter instead of just rearranging surface stuff…heart surgery, not Band-Aids. “What are God’s priorities for me?” and “What can only I do?” bring to mind a Sunday school class I took when first out of college. The teacher cautioned us that if we were to take on something God has not called us to, out of a sense of obligation or some other reason, it could prevent the person God *has* called from saying “yes”, and they would then miss out on the blessing of obedience. Whenever I feel guilty about saying “no” to something, it helps me to think of that other person who now has the privilege of getting on board with God’s will for them.
Pray…prioritize…delegate…accomplish…FREEDOM!
I like this!
I know the weight and clutter issues are related and with God’s help I pray I can make some changes this year. It was Mandisa’s Facebook post that got me to this page in a roundabout way, so it is no coincidence that I am here!
I am soooo in! LOL My prayer this year is to grow spiritually and in the past I haven’t seen the big picture of God in the little things like keeping my house organized. This will help me grow in every area of my life. Completely awesome!!!
I’m in! I so appreciate your insight.
I’m In! Thanks for this challenge. Looking forward to clearing the “clutter” on many levels.
I’m so in!
This challenge has truly been a blessing for me to take part in! Being new to dealing with a toddler and a 6-week old while trying to maintain my home and have things prepared for my husband who gets up @ 3am and doesn’t get in until 6pm causes me to overcrowd my mind constantly with things to do! Thank you for doing this study to help people like me!!
It sounds so familar when you mention that you underestimate how much time it will take to do something. I’m the same way… I also overestimate how much I can realistically accomplish and often neglect to factor in that I need down time and rest and can’t work non-stop for all my waking hours. thanks for giving the Not on my list suggestions.
I’m in! Can I say no to housework? I am excited that God is gonna release me from clutter in my mind and home!
Only if you can afford a maid!
It is so hard for me to find the ‘no.’ Definitely working on this one!
This challenge has been great so far. I am really enjoying the fresh perspective. It is my first priority to honor God in all that I do, so I am on the road to making that happen (with a little help of course) in areas that I didn’t really know how to tackle before.
THANKFUL!
I’m in!! Being clutter free sounds so wonderful! Can’t wait for that to be a reality in my life. Thank you!
I have to admit for a perfectonist this is hard—-saying no and leving something undone but I’m in. I am extremly tired of the mess no just in my home but especially in my mind!
Thank You so much for this bolg!
I have to learn to say no sometimes to all the friends and neighbors that ask me to watch their children all the time.
I’m In!
So just seeing the picture of the “to-do list” next to the “not to-do list” was an ah-ha moment. I fill so many “to-do”lists and never remove the mental resposibility and then guilt of not getting it all done. Somewhere lost inside I knew this needed to happen but I didn’t “get it” until I actually saw the visual picture at the top of the article…ahh, sigh of relief. Now I actually feel like doing the master list and working through it with “to do or not to do”!
I’m in!!! My one goal this year to do what God has planned for my life. So I’m sure I need to clear my schdule and slow down to listen to him!!!
I’m in! I have said good-bye to being VBS director this year. What a load has been lifted!
And in doing so someone else will be blessed by having the opportunity to lead the VBS program. I have always said that when we do something that God hasn’t chosen for us to do, we are stealing someone else’s blessing. It will be exciting to see what blessing God has waiting for you.
I really like this thought. Thanks, Angie.
I need to realize my husband can do some of the housework, yes it might not be the exact way I would prefer it but it will still be clean
A few years ago we moved half way across the country. God decluttered my schedule for me. I chose to not fill it up again. I am now carefully and prayerfully filling it again. It has been challenging at times. I miss the social aspects of being involved in many activities. I miss seeing a big project to fruition. I have however come to realize that the responsibilities I have to my husband, my children, and my family are more important than all those things I used to do. I still find myself longing for that project or group activity. But then God has an amazing way of filling that longing.
Oh my word I am sooooooooooooooooooo in!!!!!!!
I’m going to say NO to turning my kids clothes right side in when I do laundry. They’re old enough to do that themselves when they take off their clothes. I can’t imagine how much time that will save me when doing laundry! So. Many. Clothes. If they put it in the laundry basket inside-out, they’ll get it back inside out.
Susan- I have been doing this too and is is so freeing. My three and five year olds are learning already. I explained to my husband that it is much simpler for the person removing their clothing to so in such a way as to not turn it inside out than it is for me to spend time adjusting it. No push back so far. Its also a great lesson in natural consequences!
I am going to carefully, prayerfully consider what I can say “no” to. I have enjoyed reading everyone’s comments. It is helpful to see that others deal with the same things that go on in my clutter-filled life. I am definitely in and I am so enjoying your words of wisdom.
Wow … what a simple concept but one I hadn’t even allowed in to my mind … “to say yes to something new, I need to say no to something.” As easy as “don’t spend more than you make”, but sometimes so hard practice. I will definitely be seeking His wisdom on this area of my life, and determining how many of the “I want to do …” items match up with His “I want you to do … ” items. THANK YOU!
I’m in! I’ve been sick for over a week and just trying to keep up with my job. I’m going to have to catch up on Clutter-Free days 1 through 5 this weekend. Ugh! Story of my life! : )
Why not make today YOUR Clutter Free day 1, and then tomorrow your clutter free day 2, and so on? Would that help?
Good idea!
I’m in too! Praying that my husband’s business would sell, that would take a huge part of my to-do list away.
I am super scared to do this edit but I’m also very excited…completely in!!!
I have many areas of my life that I am working on de-cluttering. It has always been difficult to say no but God has been working on me for a couple years now so this discussion has been a great tool for me. Work, church, personal life, family, and the list goes on. Creating a list of responsibilities and then going through that list and praying for it and asking God to direct what I am in is going to be key in me de-cluttering my life.
I’m in:-). This is so helpful.
You hit my “nail” right on the head with cutting out the morning news and reading my Bible. I always check the local news and weather first thing…..like there’s anything there that will lift me up……..and before it’s over my hubby is up and the day is rolling and it’s a hard thing to get back to reading and studying God’s word and getting my workout in. This is going to be a big step for me…….but one well worth the effort. Thank you, Glynnis.
I’m in! And prayerfully considering the “To don’t” list!
I’m in:)
I have to admit this has been extremely overwhelming for me as I have cluttered my home with photos,letters, items that have so much emotional attachment, some not necessarily good. One of the things that I planned months ago,was “taking an out of town trip to the beach without my husband for the PERFECT ceremony to get rid of some items that I have from my past”… Several months ago a friend of mine and I broke into the house where most of my childhood sexual abuse took place (a deceased uncle’s house) and I took certain items and took pictures without anyone but my friend and I knowing…I don’t know exactly why I did it or what I expected to get out of it…but because I haven’t been able to do get rid of those items, I now feel like I have this secret again and it has a negative hold on me…I want to say no to holding on to past hurts and say yes to being free instead. I’m in!
I am in BY FAITH – VERY EXCITED about all this!
I get a cup of coffee and can’t wait to read every morning!
Thank you so much for allowing God to use you!
I’m in
Not sure what I can possibly say no to, but, I love the idea and will pray over it. Thank you for your suggestions and this challenge. I’m in!!
Definitely need to pray about this one!
I’m in! I’m ready for freedom!!!
I’ll be praying this weekend to see what needs to go!
I’m in! I was really feeling overwhelmed yesterday and my husband just said I needed to figure out what God wanted me to do instead of what I wanted to do or what I thought I needed and prioritize. This is very difficult for me. I still have not completed my list yet.
Just yesterday, I added another new thing without even realizing what I was doing! Oh boy. Well, I’m in!!
Thank you do much for doing this, it’s just what I need!
I am going to consistently read my granddaughter at least one Bible story at night and read one less “other story book”.
Thanks!!!!
I looooove being organized and tweaking my systems–this is a great, practical suggestion. Thanks for the concrete applicable steps!
I’m in! And I’m so glad to know others have these same issues (15 minute trip to the store turns into an hour; saying yes to just one more little thing; not knowing what to do with all of my son’s school art projects and papers). I don’t feel so crazy knowing that others struggle with the same issues and it’s not just me. I am so looking forward to ending this struggle and finally having a workable solution.
Cynthia says: Making my list was exhausting but now I feel lighter, happier and so ready to tackle my projects that have made me feel unable to continue. This is a blessing to me.
Simplicity. All I want is simplicity. I’m so tired of being overwhelmed. I wake some mornings feeling ” behind”.
I really like the idea of a ” not to do list”.
My prayer is that I can truly hear from God about editing my to do list.
Thanks again Glyniss!
I am so in! Thank you ladies for everything!! This challenge has really helped free me from Satan’s bonds and I am so incredibly thankful!!
I need to give up social media networking in order to spend more time in Gods word. I also need to give up a little sleep in order to fit an exercise schedule in. Thanks for helping with all of this and clearing things up for me. =)
I’ve started trying to do this with anything that comes in my home….something has to go out to make room for the new item. I have NEVER thought of doing this with my ‘to-do’ list until today. Brilliant! and what clarity I have now! Thank you for this revelation!
I appreciate your remark “Most of us underestimate the amount of time things take. And we overestimate our uninterrupted time to accomplish them.” This is so very true! And to see it in writing is like an affirmation for me. I needed this. I’ve been mentally beating myself up for this. Now I know to do the opposite, to overestimate the time things take and to underestimate the time. Thanks for this!
I’m in! I did one of the first things this morning… I turned OFF the TV while reading my emails. Wow. The multi-tasking thing I read about yesterday hit me between the eyes! Thank you, too, for going to the “SOURCE” of our issues. God has given us good minds.
I’m in!
A HUGE thank you for doing this study with us! I’ve already felt such a relief just getting my “brain dump” on paper. I had no idea how much stuff was running rampant in my head! I do think I’m going to tell my kids Glynnis told me to quit doing dishes, so it’s now their job.
Thanks again from the bottom of my heart!
I’m in!!!
Count me In. I am trying to overcome being a people pleaser — so I need to say No more often.
Thanks Glynnis and Karen for your encouragement and insight. I have learned the ability to say “no” most of the time, so for me the “NOT” to do is like another comment above – NOT doing what the children’s responsibilities are. It’s so hard to let things lie until they get home from school to do it, then it’s so hard to stay on top of them to make them do their chores! I feel like the “bad guy” a lot of times. But, I know that this is my God-given responsibility to raise godly children in an ungodly society, children who are responsible instead of spoiled, children who respect themselves, their family and the blessings God has given us.
Thank you for this challenge!
Ok Wow! This is something my mom has always said!! Learning how to say no! I am 39 weeks pregnant and was on a committee to prepare food for events monthly. I told them I needed some maternity leave until around March or so. I felt good that I was narrowing down my commitments to focus on my new responsibilities as a mom. Then I get a phone call the treasurer and secretary (same person) for this group is resigning will I please please take her place? What do I say? Why yes of course? How crazy can I be? It is way more hours and responsibility than managing the food committee! I so needed to hear this today! I have made the commitment and will stick with it, but learning to say no is always very hard. I always want everyone else to be happy and that can be a very dangerous way to be. In trying to please everyone someone is always left out. Thanks again for this reminder! My next response for now is, “No!”
If it’s too much though you should talk to them and they should understand. Because it will take a lot of your time and having a new baby will stress you out if you are trying to do too much.
I’m in. This series is helping me so much!
Such a simple concept – every “yes” has to have a “no.” I also have problems with underestimating the time it takes for me to do things. You’ve given me 2 good things to change in my thinking so far. The “yes” needing a “no” and that multi-tasking hurts focus. I tend to be fairly organized in my home now (had to learn how when preparing my house to be sold for a move and having it on the market for a year), but am realizing that my thinking is not clutter-free at all. Thanks for this journey!
Oops! I forgot to enter my name and email address! Just shows how cluttered my mind can be!
Well, I am so unorganized that I can’t even get my thoughts straight. I am trying to make my list and either I don’t have enough stuff or I just can’t clearly make the list or organize it. I will pray about it this weekend and see if that will help. I have always just been a fly by the seat of my pants girl so whatever happens I just blow off. Maybe that’s good or not whatever anyway, I have tried to be organized and it lasts about 1 day or if I’m really in the mood 3 but then back to my messy dresser that gets piled with clothes. My husband is so organized he can’t stand it but he puts up with me. He is actually almost OCD… Anyway I would love to gewt organized and stay that way…HELP!!!!!!!!!!!
Clutter. I got clutter and it’s in my mind more than my daily routines. I am blessed to work for my employer in the confines of my home office. But that leads to alot of other stuff. Like making sure the dishes are washed and the coffee is made and the clothes are done before my husband walks in at 5pm. And so on and so on.
I get up in the morning and start work no matter what time it is.
Ughh. too much clutter. And it doesn’t have to be physical.
Sheila
Oh you are soooo right this is a hard one. One of the symptoms of ADHD is no concept of time. I am always late for everything with a few rare exceptions and it wasn’t until about 6 months ago i realized i have absolutely no concept of time! To me 45 min. looks like 10 min. and now that i’ve finally figured this out it seems to be helping some. Anyway, Glynnis the things you are saying make so much sense and the solutions you give are so helpful. I’m trying really hard to work on the things you point out and suggest.
Help! ! ! !
List keeps growing each day….it’s fun to scratch things off after I do them, but I continue adding more than I remove, obviously.
Praying about it all, but confess I am afraid that if I do my already assigned jobs well (wife, homemaker, grandmother of four small ones under two, member and elected leader in my church, bank director), there will never ever be time for watercolor and pastel painting.
Father, forgive my lack of faith in Your provision for wisdom in all areas, including this one of what to remove from my list. Thank You for You faithfulness proven time and time again! I love You so!
Glynnis that was great. I completely understand about the store thing. My husband can go and get something and be back right away…but not me I can just run in and back out and it still seems to take me longer.
I’m in!!!!!
Thanks so much for this study.
This is just what I need!
Thank you for sharing this simple insight that has slipped from my focus and way of thinking about controlling my life, my family, and my clutter. I am so excited to see how God will use you and your ideas to better equip me to face this new year without regret and shame over all I cannot accomplish and take joy in what I need to be doing.
I’m in.
I’m so in!
You got me with “God’s priorities for me!” Ouch!
I’m in! Thanks Glynnis ~ I was really trying to focus and not multi-task yesterday. I felt very productive at the end of my day!
I’m so excited to continue this new journey!!! I plan to forward this blog to all my sisters in Christ!
I’ve been feeling pressure to join parent council, now that I am reading your daily challenges, I realize that it is not a wise move because there is nothing I can give up to make time for it, and I already feel so bogged down.
I’m in! I don’t know what to give up but I am so ready to see what God wants me to do. Thank you for this, I really need it and the timing seems perfect!
Thank you for the challenge. I know what I need to give up – watching TV at night. But, I don’t know what I need to be doing first. Our kitchen and home office needs to be organized. I have so many craft/sewing projects that I would like to do as well. Books to read, time with God, exercise….All of these things are more beneficial than TV. I think I’m going to start spending my quiet time with God in the kitchen and home office – praying over these areas for wisdon and guidance. Maybe that is a start?
This was a very encouraging post. I just deactivated my Facebook account because I’m trying to finish my Master’s degree, while homeschooling my 4 kids. Some people totally understand. While others have given me a hard time about it. But I’ve already found that it gives me more time for the things I have to do. I want to continue to find things to cut in order to find more time
Yea to deactivating Facebook! There are seasons in our lives when we definitely need to put blinders on and narrow our focus. Congratulations for making a hard decision.
I’m in!…With God this IS possible!
My first thought is – “I can’t omit anything!” Guess I’ll be doing some praying this weekend
Thanks so much for moderating today Karen Ehman! My favorite book of all time is “A Home that Says Welcome.” I have since become so interested in the Hearts at Home and Proverbs 31 Ministries, thanks so much!
ps. Glynnis, I purchased and have finished “I used to be so organized” and it was GREAT!! This study is just what I need to put the principles into practice
I am totally in. I am currently unemployed and actively looking for work. I am praying about the amount of time I spend on the computer but not in HIS WORD!!!! I am striving to say NO to the computer and yes to HIS WORD. It is not about time, it is about my selfish ways and picking things I want to do instead of things, GOD wants me to do.
I WILL SAY NO to the outside world and YES to HIM. Thank you Glynnis for your motivation and inspriation.
GTG do some reading and get off the computer.
Hugs and God Bless.
Kimberly
I have decided to limit the computer time (this to include FB). How can anyone get anything done sitting at the computer and next thing I know, 2 hours have gone by and nothing on the list got done. – So I’m definitely in. Thank you for the giveaway opportunity.
I’m totally in! I’ve been needing to do this and know God is in all of it. I’m so glad I came across your 15 day challenge.
I”M IN!!!!
This has been an eye opening week for me, thank you for the prayers and guidance, thank you so much.
Today’s message really speaks to my current state of mind. I have started this year questioning what God really wants me to be doing. I’m involved in a ministry that can be very rewarding, but at times frustrating as well. I’ve also been wanting to attend our RCIA classes, and I’ve had another opportunity presented to me as well. The concept of not accepting or taking on anything new until I’ve said “no” to something else is something I now know I really need to consider. Thanks -
This is Great!!! I am really trying to embrace simplicity in my life in so many ways. Do I really need to make a full meal when I am tired, or can I make something quick? I’m trying not to stay up late watching TV. I’m trying since I have a young daughter to not take on too much formal ministry responsibility, but still minister to peoples lives through just being there, or being a listening ear, or praying.
But I have such a long way to go, and as I’ve been cutting out stuff, other bad habits (2 hours of TV with my hubby last night!) have been creeping in. But then again, I can think of that as our date night right since we can’t often get a babysitter and go out? Well I guess I need God’s wisdom in ALL of this, but I love reading ideas that others have mentioned. Thanks!
OOOOOO……OOOOOOO….PICK ME!!!!
ps…I told my boss (hubby), that I quit. He laughed and asked me if I knew where his thermals were. I am honored to be his wife and need to make sure that there is a balance in my life so that he knows that he is a priority.
I am not going to be my husband’s alarm clock. He doesn’t need me to be his alarm clock but the alarm is on my side of the bed so I use it as an excuse not to get up 30 minutes earlier. It is my excuse to stay in bed a little longer and even hit the “snooze” a few times. I feel God calling me to get up earlier to spend time with Him but I use the excuse of the “alarm” clock to not get up then I get frustrated when my quiet time is interrupted or I miss it all together. Thanks for this study Glynnis. I almost did not sign up for this study – “I didn’t have time!” but now I realize how much I needed it!
I’m in!
YES=NO=YES
IM DEFINITELY IN!!
I’m going to have to really focus and pray over this. I apparently have control issues and difficulty trusting others to complete tasks in the “right way”. Thank you for the guidance to declutter my mind and heart!
I’m in!
Never thought of a “Not to do list” – this will be interesting to see what I put on that list! I think it will need a lot of prayer! I’m in!
Ummm… I’ve only been able to mark 3 items off my crazy-long list. Not a good start, but I suppose it’s still a start.
I’m in. I’m ready for freedom from the clutter in my life!
I’m in…I have known for quite a while that I need to say “no” a little more so that I can fully devote myself to the “yes” items on my list, the things that I feel God wants me to do. I look forward to continuing this process with you.
I’m in!!! We’ve gotten so busy with life that I’ve tried to do everything, but with your help we’re going back to chore assignments! I will no longer have the responsibility of keeping the house in order alone when my husband and kids can and have done so in the past! Thanks!
“I’m in”!!!! Thank you for this challenge… I sure need it!! Being a home school mom, it’s really hard to stay focused on all that I have to do and still have time for myself and time alone with God.
Blessings to you both!
I love how God starts to prepare me for the things He is going to speak to me about. He had already laid many of these things on my mind and now He is speaking to me through you showing how to handle it all. Thank you for letting God use you to speak to us.
Jenni
I’m in!….Thank you for reminding me that Perfection is unattainable. you have to say no to actually say yes. I tend to prioritize by other’s expections (or what i think others expect of me); I am going to stop doing this. Thanks again.
Ate you reading my thoughts? Just what I needed today.
My husband and I are going through this together. I have issues with clutter of stuff, he has issues with clutter of activities. We hope that going through this together we will be able to encourage each other and also hold each other accountable to declutter!
I am all in!!
I think this is hard, too. Just praying that God will show me what I can eliminate!
I am going to go through my list, but I am still adding to it as I go through work and my home. At the end of this today, I prayed to God that I would really listen to Him and for Him to please be ‘really loud’ LOL. He Was!!! Immediately, He said Loudly, PUT YOUR TEENAGERS TO WORK!!!! I have a 15 and a 14 year-old, and although we are all busy, they are able to help, and should. They used to help with the every-day chores, organization of papers, etc, but it just got put to the way side somehow. Because of this, the ‘clutter’ has just added up and organization is out the window! So, as I go through my list and say “yes” and then, “no”; I am going to consider and assign what they can do in 15-30 minute increments, daily… In my mind (the Special Ed teacher in me) I see a color coded chore chart! Okay, that may be over-board… I know, baby-steps!
I am excited for the weekend and the chance to see what God has instore for me!
This is what always comes to mind when thinking of de-cluttering – from Kenny Rogers:
“You’ve got to know when to hold ‘em,
know when to fold ‘em,
know when to walk away,
know when to run……”
Wise words, I think!
God bless all of us as we take on these challenges.
hahaha…. i might need to run.
I’m in!!
I’m in! Thank you so much…I’ve always thought I was the only one who set such goals only to be overwhelmed and then totally fail because of my own lack of discipline and under-estimating the time things take! I’m looking forward to your insights.
I’m IN! Happy Friday everyone!
Thank you for walking us through this difficult process. It is going to take some time but I feel like I have a cheerleader behind me. I’m in
I’m in. An adjustment I am having to make is admitting to myself that as I age, I am not able to do everything I used to, or maybe not as quickly or as well. I will try to forgive myself for that and be more accepting of my own efforts.
If you do not take the time to do this sometimes God will do it for you. A few years ago I was in the same boat as most other people. Super involved if anybody and work or church needed anything I am who they called. Then we had a horrible situation at church and alot of people left and friendships were destroyed, try as I could I was unable to help the people involved, although I tried. This is when I realized I am called to be a wife, mother and daughter of the King and thorough lots of tears and prayers I gave up a lot of responsibilities and just stepped back with Gods help to concentrate on loving my family and my God. He has since taken my life in a whole new direction and I am grateful. Although I wish I could have realized this on my own without all the drama involved.
I’m in!
Oh my….when I “signed up” for this challenge, I was hoping for some tips on putting cute baskets in my closets, for example. But the Lord knew I needed to get to the root of the problem. Thank you for helping me do this!
~Michele
I’m in!!! As much as I think I can handle it all, I really can’t it all and do it well. Thanks for the challenge!
I’m in! Even “oldsters” need to get organized and especially to cut out!
I’m in!
I know God has been leading me toward making my health a priority and I’m “suspecting” he wants me to “let go” more where my kids are concerned.
So I’m praying for God’s peace, discernment and courage to do what he knows should be the priority in my life.
Thank you Glynnis!
To learn how to become disciplined in areas and stay that way would be such a relief! I have a hard time saying no even to myself; I try to check everything off my list before getting out the door and then struggle to be on time. How I hate that! I’m in! My “bigger project to do list” honestly made me want to throw up.
I am in!
I am trying. I do like the questions that you shared for us to try to organize our priorities.
Wow! Did I have some “aha” moments this past week…..and boy do I need help. As I was reading Day 4 I was texting and browsing, and was at work….I actually did do the Day 3 challenge only because I bascially already had lists that I keep on my blackberry (when I think of something I want to do, or think I should be doing – I pull up a new note and add it)….but after putting it in writing – it was 9 PAGES LONG!!! Praise Jesus and Lord help me…this is going to be hard. But I don’t doubt that God will answer my fervent prayers for guidance through this.
Count me IN.
My goal is to unclutter my mind, home and life. I want to be more organized. These devotions are wonderful.
IM IN !
After a tough week, transmission out on 1 vehicle, other vehicle involved in 4 car wreck (everyone alright), skunk shows up in garage after our dog, and then lose power in windstorm last night, I NEED inspiration. Probably need organization to recover from all of this too. LOL God is good and carries us through the good and the bad.
I’m in…
Seeking God’s guidance in getting rid of this “stuff”…”clutter.” Once I begin to go through it I do not know what to do with it…I am looking forward to each and every email from you and am praying that God will tell me how to let go of all the “stuff” that is in the spare bedroom and in the attic! Thank you Glynn for following God’s lead in sharing ways to help me! Sincerely…
I want to unclutter my mind, my life, and prioritize my responsibilites. I want to downsize the “stuff” in my house so that I can keep it orderly so I don’t have so many things to do when I get home from work. I am so tired of running!!!!!!!!!!!
Well, you said to remove something I don’t want to do, can I remove that I have to clean the bathrooms? Oh, I guess that’s not really the item God has in mind, this is going to take some thought and much prayer. So for now, I’m In!
I’m in. My goal for 2012 is to have a deeper relationship with my Lord, and to do something with the clutter in my life so not to have a hindrance with him.
Some of those ouches really hurt! I plan on praying and really listening to what God wants me to cut out. Thank you!
Thank you- for giving me the permission to say “no” to some of the load that I have placed on my own shoulders! Bless you in your ministry and all of us in our struggles to get it together and then remember where we put it!
I’m in! I have a fulltime day job, part-time ministry to women and am a FT pastor’s wife. I’m also doing a three-year graduate program at the same time and have young adult children. Staying organized is essential or all this “good stuff” will overwhelm me. Would love the book!
I’m in too…though sometimes it seems my time slips from me before I can get to the things that will free up my time!
I am so thankful for this challenge. I know God wants better for us than to be weighed down by all the clutter in our schedules, life and home. Looking forward to the end results!
Yes, I am in! This is such a wonderful challenge and although it can be hard to turn down certain ‘priorities’ in life, it will be meaningful and empowering to take control of my time. I will be praying for specific guidance and some divine intervention! Thank you, Glynnis and Karen
I’m in. Prayer first…then slashing.
Anyone ever have the feeling that if YOU say “no” than how will it get done or who else will be willing to do it? I don’t think I am better than anyone by all means….but if I truly ask myself why I did say YES, that is more times than not my standard answer…..
My goal this year is to read the Bible through. I know I have to give up watching television to do this. It is so hard at times to get out of routine to form new ones.
I’m in!! Looks like turning off the tv a few nights a week will be where I start. Good thing I have the weekend to have a few chats with God while He leads me on this journey! Thanks for this clutter free challenge, I need it as life seems to get busy. Time to slow down and enjoy!
I’m In! I think I will mark down on my “Not to do List” upgrading my computer for now. It’s more like “To do at a later time”
So many things to do, I really need to just do them and not procrastinate any longer…Thank God for God, His mercy and His grace!! And thank you for leading me to this wonderful freeing challenge 
I just received a phone call this morning that my uncle, who was young, passed away very suddenly last night. At first, when I read today’s post, it felt a little shallow – how could I be spending my time on thoughts of organizing in light of what just happened? As I thought about it more, however, I realized that organizing our lives around our highest priorities can make all the difference in the world to our loved ones. It seems that when one is not intentional about determining one’s schedule, urgent but unimportant things take over very quickly. Organizing is great – I am hopelessly addicted – but it’s not an end in itself. Organizing only serves a useful purpose when it frees up time and soul space to live out our deepest passions and convictions. I am determined to schedule my time to focus on relationships in my life…..making time for people, because we never know when our last opportunity to love them will be.
Lord, give me Your wisdom concerning what or who should go so that You will be first! I believe your promise that everything will be in its proper place when You are first. Be joyful always!. I’m ALL in!
I’m in! This has been an eye opener for me! I see, after some quiet reflection, that one of the Biggest reasons that I need to declutter my life is that I am doing things that not only stress me out but enable my children to remain children rather than the teenage young men who need to be responsible in the way that God intends them to be.
I’m in too! I have many changes ahead this year, and am eager to discern God’s will for how I need to be spending my time. Thanks for your suggestions. (the multi-tasking post was especially convicting!)
I’m in!
I’m in! I am so going to pray about my responsibilities and what God wants me to have first on my priority list. It can be so overwhelming and discouraging. I trust that God will reveal what is best for each one of us during this de-clutter journey. Thanks for sharing!
I’m in.
I LOVE the questions you gave us to help us in trimming our “to-do” lists.
I know that I do many things I need to stop. I feel the Lord leading me in taking
on a new responsibility, but I have bee shying away because of the fear of being overwhelmed. This is going to help me so much. THanks!!
I am in.
I am in…my husband and I decided last night something has to give…so we unplugged the Television we made a committment until May…now on to the rest of the list, time to delete some things from it! Thanks!
I’m in! Praying for guidance on the things that I should be doing and the things that I should clear off “the table”. Thanks for your guidance!
Well Glynnis, you hit the nail on the head! This is definitely going to be a painful process, but I believe that this challenge called to me for a reason so I still in. The words that you spoke at the beginning of this post, you know all the ones about beating yourself up and how the cycle comes back around again……could have been recorded from my brain. Thanks again for doing this!
I’m in! Enjoying all your insights———-I’m in the process of downsizing our house so my son & family can “move in” to the apartment we are making. Cleaning the attic has been an experience!!!! In fact I was so busy this year I did not decorate for Christmas and in many ways it was great!! Jesus was still celebrated without all the stress and clean up afterwards.
I’m in!!!
Im in! Thank you Glynnis for the permission to let some of the clutter GO! I am so grateful for this exercise 1 day at a time. You have helped me so much already!
thanks!!
Still prayerfully sorting out the responsibilities I need to purge. Thank you Glynnis for this insight. It is just what I need.
Today’s message was a big one for me. For the past seven years I have been very heavily involved with Habitat for Humanity. I sit on the board of directors and have been involved in several committees. I also am the Chapter leader of a Compassionate Friends group – this is a self help group for parents who have lost children. I lost my son Steven 7-1/2 years ago in a car accident. Last night I finally had the wisdom and strength to withdraw from my duties at Habitat. It was very difficult but the right thing to do. I have worked with Habitat in memory and honor of my son, who was a builder but feel that the Lord is telling me it is time step away from my duties there because He has other things for me to do. It is now time for focus on spiritual things and my family – daughter, 2 grandchildren and husband! Today’s message confirmed that stepping away from these responsibilities is the right thing to do! But….saying NO is always so hard!
I have never thought of the yes/no approach. Sounds like it will make it easier to decide about commitments!
I’m in, so good to know that saying no is not wrong. I have a big problem with that, I will struggle with this but with God’s power, that’s what I will work on along with determining my priorities. A big Thank you for doing this online study.
I like “for every yes there needs to be a no”. So I’m in!! I need to evaluate and do according!!! Thank you!
I am soooo in! I love this. I’m going to have to take a couple of days to work on this part. I did recently cut down on my outside commitments realizing that I needed to be at home more to take care of my priorities.
I’m in!!
I’m totally down with this!!!! I’m IN!!!!!
In In In In IN
I’m in but have much trouble saying no. This is going to be very difficult and time consuming in and of itself. Right now I will focus on prayer and Gods direction and trust that he will provide answers. Thank you.
I’m in. I think I already mentioned but being organized has always been a challenge. I’ve always WANTED to be organized but just get so overwhelmed and busy and then do nothing (just like you described)!! Can’t wait to read your book!!
Wish I had understood the concept of things taking longer than expected & it never going as smoothly or quickly as thought a long time ago. I have come to understand that in the last few years – after rushing children to get done quickly or hurry up. I just said yes the other night to a ladies ministry activity & volunteered myself for something else & then thought…’Hello, where is that time coming from?’. I just need to make the list first
Thank you for doing this Glynnis. It is good to know I am not the only person with these struggles. I don’t feel as much of a failure. I spend a lot of time immobilized by feeling overwhelmed. That is what I want to stop. God bless everyone here trying to take back thier lives.
These are great questions to ask myself and looking forward to some time with God and reflection this weekend!
I’m in!
I’m in! Something I’ve battled for years, is adding more stuff, but forgetting to take away the stuff that isn’t needed…I’m one where it is hard to say no when asked to do things…I like to be organized, but after 13 years of marriage and 4 children, I feel like I have lost my ability…and truly want to make this year one to prioritize my yes list and remember to also make a no list…as you said, we can’t expect to fill our time with new things, new goals, etc. without taking some things out of our schedule, even if they are good things! Seeking for God’s best things on my list…a tough, but much needed process this weekend! Thank you
I’m in
I think that women get caught in the trap often of the “I can help with that” all the time. We are pulled in so many directions that it is really hard to say no or help. I think that seriously writing out the list (like you suggested) and praying over it can make a huge impact.
I’m in! I’m feeling better everyday that I’m going to get myself organized. Thanks so much!
ditto-haven’t got the gumption to make the list-it is paralyzing! i know in my head that this is a first step to getting things done-taking down the Christmas tree will come first though! thanks for the reminder that it all matters very much!
This challenge is a “God” given challenge for me.. I am so thankful the Lord inspired you to do this and may you be blessed abundantly for sharing with us.. I am looking forward to allowing God to help me make some changes in my life !!!!
I’m in! Taking it step by step is definitely a welcomed change. I am the queen of being overwhelmed and I thank GOD that you are able to put in words what my heart has been feeling! I am so excited, and sooooo in, because this list is unbelievable…looking forward to seeing what GOD is going to guide me in getting rid of.
Thank you!!!!
Day 5 has really given me insight! I’ve prepared my list and its growing. I feel like God is guiding my hand on what to write and directing me on what I need to scale back on and what I need to increase. He’s a faithful Project Manager and I just want to fall into His arms and let him guide and direct my path.
I’m greatly appreciating learning that I’m not the only one … You’ve covered details that would make me swear you’ve been a fly on the wall of my home! I’m looking forward to next week and thanking God for your heart to share!
I’m in to declutter all areas of my life!
This has been so awesome. Just today I prayed about a prjoect that I needed to get done in a hurry. Before fretting about it…I stopped and prayed for God guiding me to focus on what needed to be done and not wasting time on getting distracted. I’M IN! Thanks so much. Excited about a resolution that will make a true difference.
I’m in! I am already feeling refreshed having made my list and getting that stuff out of my head! And my list isn’t even that long. Simplify my life is my goal so I am able to spend more time with my family. And honestly my life isn’t that busy. But busy with things that seem to be an addiction. Not really seeming but are. Thank you for your time in helping me with all of this. I looked for your book yesterday at my local christian book store but could not find it.
Will keep looking. And if I do not win the one today I will have to look for it too!
It’s so much easier to have questions to ask myself when I’m trying to de-clutter my schedule. I have heard so many times people tell me to weed out my schedule but I never really knew where to start. Thanks!
For every yes, there must be a no — such a simple phrase, but it makes all the difference in the world!
Wow! I think this speaks to so many women.. most, in fact. So much to do and so little time… I will really pray about this. I know there are things I enjoy, like certain TV shows, that take away precious time .. but I LOVE them and it’s so hard to just quit “cold Turkey” ..
I know the feeling! I had so many shows that I DVR. It is quicker right if you can fast forward through the commercials? Still took too much time away from my kids. New Years Eve I cleaned out the DVR. Now we play games and read books!! It is absolutely freeing. Try it! I promise you won’t regret it.
wow! i love the concept of editing day!!! I’m sorry, I have edited that from my list. I just edited washing the windows on the outside…why is that on my list in the middle of winter anyways:)
I’m in. This is a great journey to clutter free living. I could use some help!
I’m in!! I an going to limit tv time, phone time, computer time. Also, I am going to use a timer to help me do that. When I grab my iPad in the morning I am going to proverbs and James.
Lord, help me declutter my life and trust You completely.
I will let everyone else put their own laundry away! Thanks for the lesson on how to start cleaning out my schedule. I am loving this daily devotion!!
I’m in!!
Boy oh boy…talk about a breath of fresh air…such a simple concept…when I say ‘yes’ to one thing I need to say ‘no’ to something else…I am DEFINITELY in!!!
I have a difficult time telling other people, No. I am working putting God first, family a close second, and others-way behind. I do not hvae to say Yes to picking up other people’s children from school just because, or taking on another responsibility at church becuase there are so many pew sitters. I am free! Free to love God and help MY family.
I’m in! I have several of the same goals each year that you listed and never get them done. Also hard to pick which things to say no to. Especially if they are things I do to help at church.
I’m in! I read your post three times to let it really sink in… I can say no, no to other people and most importantly, no to myself. I always say yes when asked to do something; I hate to disappoint people. Or I feel like I am the only one who can do it (whatever the “it” is). Then I feel overwhelmed.
I printed out the 5 questions, cut it down to size and put it in the front of my calendar. I will go through my current list using the questions, but also, every time I want to add something, or am asked to take on a new task, I will pray about it and review these 5 questions.
What a concept, say no to something, so I can say yes to something better.
Thanks again for putting me (and all of us reading your blog) on your “to do list.”
So glad you are doing this.
Thank you for your direction. I’m in!
Absolutely need a Not-to-do list at my house! Being a new single mom (husband just left) is harder than I ever imagined. So many responsibilties. Now, I have to figure out the most important, my 3 little angels, the list goes on from there and the ones I need to get rid of. (sighs) This is going to be a prayerful, powerful weekend!
“What are God’s priorities for me?” and “What can only I do?”
Thank you for doing this challenge, Glynnis! These are the two questions I have NEVER thought to ask myself! I have always took pride in how organized I was,the past couple of years thou I have become overwhelmed with how much I have to do… but with this challenge I have realized that too really is all clutter! I will certainly be taking things off of my To Do list and putting them on the Not To Do list! With God’s help this weekend I am confident this is going to work! I am IN!!!
I’m in!
I’m in!
I am in! I am going to eliminate at least three of the totes of memorabilia in my store room!Thanks for the inspiration!
I’m in!! I’m so very excited about this challenge! I put a lot of things on myself to accomplish and trout suggestions will help me weed out my list!
*your* Darn auto correct…
I am in!
I’m in!! Thank you so much for helping me learn how to de-clutter my mind and life. Many blessings to you!
I am in on this, BUT I am really going to have to really look at my list. I don’t volunteer, don’t really belong to any organizations, don’t really get out much. So I don’t really have things like that to just say I am not going to do that anymore. Most of my list is things to clean or organize. This will be a difficult assignment for me… Glad to have the weekend to work on it!
As far as things I’m involved with I’m actually at the opposite side, I need more to get into. But being a stay at home mom of 3 young boys, my oldest being 3 1/2, I can’t get involved in a lot. But this helps me to see that as I start to be able to be involved more at church and school, when my kids get to that point, I will know how to not my life get to cluttered with that kind of stuff. However at home, I really need to learn how to prioritize my time between house, kids, and husband, as well as my own relationship with God and I’ve been feeling overwhelmed and just shut down because I don’t know what to do or where to start. So far this has been very helpful to me in seeing that I do need to cut back on some things and organize when I need to do what and how much time I should spend on things. Thank you!
“I’m in”. Your words really hit home with me today. God heard my prayers and answered them in leading me to your website a few weeks ago. I can’t wait to organize that list next week, it’s a long one. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Im in
I’m in!!!
As I read your decluttering posts (which I am thoroughly enjoying) I am reminded of how we have a house rule. Whenever any one of us recieves a gift or purchases something for ourselves, we give away 2 of that item {example- recieve a toy, we donate 2 toys}. This rule seems to work. We don’t end up having a cluttered home, full of items we don’t use, yet still enjoy the new item. A friend once told me about this, and I thought it was a great idea and wanted to share with you all. Blessings.
Saying no is something that I have come to realize that I HAVE to do just in the last couple of months. Thanks so much for helping to ease the guilt!
I’m definitely going to say no to some things on my list. It’s HUGE!!!! I realize I have put some unrealistic expectations on myself. Pairing that list down will be difficult but so worth it.
I am so excited to be doing this! Thank you for your help!
I’m in I am going to reduce computer time and start DOING rather than laying around and talking about needing to do more. I am not talking about cluttering schedule more….just reducing amount of time on computer and time-wasters.
Just have a moment to write “I’m in”! LOL
REALLY want to edit my list – just not exactly sure what God truly wants me to edit? Still praying, trying to keep heart and mind open for HIS answers, not mine.
I’m in. God has helped me learn to say “no” at church in the last few years, but I still struggle with family and close friends, even when I know I shouldn’t be taking something on. Thank you for reminding me to pray over every single thing. The idea that something must be removed before something new can be added to my schedule is monumental. And I pray every day that God will help me overcome the selfishness that wants things done to my particular standard, which is why I usually end up doing whatever it is myself.
I am soooo in…. i am so excited to “get decluttered”
i have been a list person since i can remember. problem is, the little boxes that i place next to my list of to do items, have increasing failed to be checked off with time.
today’s blog was very eye opening , in that, i do often create unnecessary, overbearing tasks for myself, and forget to ask, God, is this Your best for me.
I will continue to add to my list and pray over it over the weekend, this in and of itself is a cartharsis and i feel my mind and spirit lightening as i do this.
in the end, I might just discover that the one box i will continue to check of with be ;
sonia, God just wants you to rest in Him and Be Joyful always! Check, Check
Thanks Glynnis!
I’m in! Like a lot of the others most of what is on my list is housework! I have a husband and almost 1 year old son, work full time, and have just started back to school full time, not counting time for church and family activities. I am overwhelmed and stressed to the max so I look forward to decluttering. I always say if I could just get the house back like it used to be I’d be ok.
I’m in. I’m also committed to FINISHING that darn list! I’ve been carrying it around with me and when a thought pops in my head, down it goes on the list. (Maybe I should be committed to not thinking so much!)
I’m in, but I am not sure what I am going to cut out…
I’m In! What an encouragement your posts have been the last few days! It’s amazing how easily we get caught up in our busyness. Thanks for the reminder to bring EVERYTHING to the throne of grace for His approval and direction.
I’m In! I am notorious for taking on too much. I am an Approval Addict and am learning to say NO! I am excited about this de-cluttering and finally having freedom.
I’m in, and trying hard Sue
Loving this challenge — lots of deep thinking here with ways to be clutter-free – can’t wait for this weekend to work through these actioin items
I’m definitely in!! I’m so busy that my husband and children are being shortchanged. I’m ready . . . bring it on
I’m In! Thanks so much for pointing out what should be so obvious to me….I’m overextended already, what makes me think I can add something without removing something else? God bless you!
I’m in! I have decluttered in the past only to find myself back into clutter. With this new approach I am praying that I will finally be free from clutter. Thank you for your willingness to serve!
I love it! “For every yes there has to be a no!” I so need to remember that!
My clutter was cleared from my home in 2009 when a house fire took everything. And since then I’ve done really well in this area – only replacing what was truly needed. However, I struggle on a daily basis helping my children and step-children understand the concept between needing things and wanting things and banishing the pack-rat mentality. That’s why I signed up – to help my kids de-clutter and organize so they can acheive their true potential.
I’m in!! I am so ready to get my life in order and keep it there.
I’m in! Thanks for sharing with us as we work through these clutter challenges!
I’m in….
This is very convicting since I have to ask myself why don’t I want to give something up? Some things have seemingly become my identity which is sinful since my standing in Christ is my identity! I believe the Lord has providentially led me to your site plus throw in a menopausal de cluttering woman and things are happening (my family is getting concerned as nothing is safe right now in the house; they are the ones being “asked” to drive the trunk loads of “material blessings” to the mission store”).
Thanks for your ministry. Blessings.
I’m in! It’s so freeing to hear that I am NOT the only one who has these feelings! I am a single mom and sometimes I feel so burdened since I am responsible for everything – even though I only have one teenager – I still feel at times like the weight of the world is on my shoulders. I am going to do two things – since I am saying it aloud and putting it in writing it means I am accountable for following through – I am going to limit my social networking to 15 minutes per day and I am going to pass on some house cleaning chores to my daughter! Thank you for your ministry – I can’t tell you how much it has helped!
I’m in! I am letting go of the self-imposed desire for my house to be perfect and to redirect that focus onto my family. Can I get an Amen!
Wow! This really makes sense to me.
I am in! I am not sure how to whittle it down but it will be done with God’s help!
I am the queen of thinking I can do everything and will take on new challenges without giving anything else up. This will be difficult, but I have to start somewhere.
I am IN…I am in the process of getting my priorities all organized and to be praying about(a never-ending battle for me with what my mind wants to be doing versus what God actually wants me to do)…prayer is definitely a key here…
This has been great and so eye opening. The idea of having to give something up to add something else is like someone already said — obvious, but maybe too obvious. I had an awesome Christian woman once tell me that God told her to take on a new role in ministry and she asked God what she would have to give up and He said “nothing.” I think that sounded so pious and I have tried to add thinking I could without having to give up anything, but the truth is that something always suffers when you add something new to your “to do” list. I am an old woman working toward my master’s degree and had to drop out of a Bible study recently. The freedom feels amazing. I can concentrate on one this at a time. Thanks Glynnis!
I’m in! The goal list for the year was exactly like mine — for I don’t know how many years! I tend to say “yes” to everything — it will be great to be able to say “no”.
Thank you for the push! I’ve been working and cracking the whip on maintaining a negative stuff flow. Buy a new shirt, get rid of or donate two. My goal is to have a 5% reduction each year. Whenever my husband brings home something new, I politely ask him what he is getting rid of. I pressured my married to take what is stored here or it’s going.
BUT, I need do that to my schedule. Things keep finding their way onto it but very little comes off of it. Two and a half years ago I was diagnosed with cancer requiring surgery and weekly chemo. I immediately cleared off most of my schedule. It can be done! At the end of my treatments, my plan was to re-evaluate what I was doing and be intentional about what I was going to resume. I failed miserably. The only thing I managed to do is keep one day per week somewhat open for doctor’s appointments.
Oops! That should be married children. Sorry!
I am determined to start this. I feel more swallowed each and every day by the mountain of clutter that threatens to take over. Every time I feel like I have made progress, the four people in my house bring home even more stuff! I’m going to put a trash can by the door so that no unwanted papers make it in to the house. Thank you for all of your help!
I’m in! This is all very helpful. Great comments, too.
I’m in, and ready for the challenge that lies ahead!
I’m in!
Looking at my list right now I can’t see anything that can go, but I’ll pray about it this weekend. I’m in!
I want to be organized in every area of my life. I have come a long ways, but I have a long ways to go. Thank you for these posts. I am thankful to God for all He has done for me and I would like to “get it all together” and start being what He wants me to be. Thanks again.
Thank you thank you for those wise words – obviously I can’t add something to my schedule w/o getting rid of something else but I sure do try….so simply put by you – now to implement it! I’M IN!
I am definitely in!!!
Don’t worry – I’m not quitting today … BUT, this is a second (or third) witness to something I’ve been struggling with. Change does not come easy to me and I tend to hang on to things and relationships entirely too long, even when it’s obvious and painful to continue! So, I will begin the search today for something new and begin the process of saying “NO” to something I’m no longer comfortable with.
I am in… Because of my emotional attachment to the things the things that clutter my home I have not been free to do what God is calling me to do. I need to say no to keeping and then let go of the books, magazines, notes etc. in my home. Instead of “finding a space” I need to know how to clear a space. I need both no and know.
I need to know how to act on those 5 questions given today.
My passion is hospitality and my cluttered small home has prevented me from enjoying and using my passion.
This is new beginning. Thank you.
This is very good. Also we need to not feel guilty when we give up “good” things. Seeking God’s will for each activity is the place to start. Then just trust in Him. I have to remember that God asking me to give up something is because He has it ready for someone else to take on!
I’m in! I really like the idea of saying “no” to something when you are contemplating saying “yes” to a new task or plan. I have been piling up way too many new tasks (caring for my mother, to name one) to not realize I need to delete some other things.
When I define my list by Gods priorities I feel secure in knowing the dirction I’m headed and the tasks necessary to get me there. I don’t have to feel
Ok, I have looked at my list I’ve compiled so far. I have marked several things that do not have to be done by me, but I would have to hire someone to do them and that costs money I may not have to spend. What do I do about those items. The only other option is to ask someone else in the family to do them, which would overload them. Most of the items are stewardship things for the home.
Ask for help, even if it seems like something small. It is amazing how many simple things, when added together, eat up our time. Your family lives there too, they should be considerate of you and not overload you either. Sit down together and let them come up with some ways they could bless you by helping.
If you cook dinner, ask someone to help with clean up. Have everyone bring their dishes and something else to the sink or place them in the dishwasher. It is a battle at first, but if everyone in your home picks up after themselves, everything will go smoother.
It is actually good for your family to help because they will learn life skills.
Hang in there, Cindy. I’ll pray for you.
I’m in!
I have been saying ‘no’ to things & having friends & relatives say, ‘are you sure you should be/want to be doing this?” This is such a confirmation! Thank you.
I so need organization. I ave 4 kids between the ages of 10 and 2, own my own full time business that requires a lot from me and I am always juggling. The clutter in our home suffocates me and leaves me feeling helpless. I so need this!
This is a tough one and I need to do some serious praying. How very obvious, yet I never think to take things off of the list when I add new things. Alot of soul searching is already going on in me.
I’m in!
I’m not sure why it has not occurred to me that there needs to be a “no” for each “yes” I give. After quitting a very challenging and time-consuming job to stay home with our children, it has amazed me that I am much busier than I was while working full-time plus. I have only said, “yes” to one activity at a time, especially for church, but find myself busier than I had dreamed I could be. It will definitely be a matter of prayer to prioritize my list and do some much-needed editing.
oops. Bad about not doing an obligation I put on myself.
Why is it so hard to get organized….I’m in!!
I want to be in. I am laying here in a hospital bed after having a mini stroke and realize, after reading todays devotion, that “I” am the problem. I think I have to and can only do many things. I pray as I leave the hospital I can grow in what God would have for me/I. Learning to say no will make a difference. Thank you!
I’m in!!
I work with a wonderful minister who doesn’t like to say “no” which means I get to multi-task with him too. I am helping him practice the “N” word.
I’m so in. I so needed this. The day after I made my list (3 1/2 pages) I got up and had such a sense of peace and freedom…..nothing racing through my mind, I didn’t feel as though I had to rush through the day. Thanks……IT’S WORKING!
In!! It is going to be hard to decide what I can delegate but I will do my best! It will also be hard to say no to some items, they all NEED to be done! I ended up with 4 different lists and 2 of them now have 2 pages full. I just need to pray for God’s direction and guidance. I know that He will reveal His will for me and my family if I would simply listen! God is so patient! Thanks for the aha’s!!!
I can so identify with the commentary on multi-tasking. So many times, I try to do so much at once that I find myself not doing anything well. This only proves to be frustrating. Technology has so often been the factor. This weekend, I like the idea to shut it off. Focus on my REAL family and not my Facebook family!
I’m in. And I have no idea what I can take off my list of responsibilities. I think I’ve been pretty good about not putting too much on my plate but there’s still a lot there – most having to do with being a good wife and mother (or at least what I’ve been taught that is supposed to make me a good wife and mother). This will have to take some thought and prayer for sure!
I am so in and definatley want and need to learn more. Saying “no” is one of my weakness, however I have been learning in my Bible School Classes this past semester that I really need to learn to balance my time for what is healthy for me and my family. Can’t wait to keep reading.
I am just like Margay, above. This year though I really need to stop saving those books, magazines and pieces of paper. I feel in my heart, THE PLAN for me is to seriously study my homeopathy. I want to help people heal. I know this is my passion. I need to act on it! I am also compelled to do something in Haiti. Is it to go there and help? Is it to send a few dollars? I have been praying and asking the Lord what is it that He wants me to do for the Haitians. I need to UNCLUTTER! My clutter is holding me back from being the BEST THAT I CAN BE!
I’m in!
I’m in…………
Thank you for doing this for all us out here and everywhere. I am in! I haven’t done all that was asked of me yet, but I WILL get caught up over the weekend ready for Monday.
Ladies and maybe gentlemen out there, hang in there for the challenge. I love reading all your comments. I relate to you all!
I am loving this challenge, and even though I have not finished any of your daily challenges, (YET!) the thing I am taking away from all of this so far is to go to our Heavenly Father first and foremost! We own our a family business, which takes a lot of my time. I have decided that I will take each daily challenge, and try and accomplish it in a week. I know that it is impossible to do it daily. Thank you so much for reminding us what is truly important! Blessings to you for your words of encouragement and insight.
I’m in!
Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom with us on-line. This week really got to me because I also beat myself up about failing to meet the expectations I set on myself. This time of year especially I feel like such a failure because last year’s goals were clearly not met. I’m hopeful and encouraged that 2012 will be the year I actually see change in my life. May God bless and multiply your ministry.
I can think of alot of things I need to remove from my “to-do” list. Going about it was always the chore. Don’t want to let anyone down, don’t want to feel like I am letting me down. I am making it my goal to pick 2 things on my list that can be done without my managing. One being, allowing my child to straighten her own room without my telling her how and two, stop procrastinating. Do what needs doing now and not let it accumulate.
Thanks for the great information and tips.
I am soooo in!!!! I had a breakdown yesterday that I am doing so many different things and am not doing any of them well. God has been telling me one particular thing that I need to say no to and let it be someone else’s turn, but I have been ignoring it because it is something that I have enjoying doing for years. However, the enjoyment has left the building in the last 6 months and it has become a chore!!!!! Thanks so much for the affirmation to say “no”!!!
I can’t tell you how much I look forward to this email in my inbox every day!!!!!
Thank you so much for this guidance, and for me, a huge reminder! As the first born child in my family, I am the typical “people pleaser.” I like for everyone to like me and to be happy with my work. It is very difficult for me to say “no” to people, whether they are strangers or the closest of friends. This was a wonderful reminder to me that I CAN say “no” and I don’t have to feel guilty about that. The bonus is that my dear friends and family will still love me even if I have to tell them “no.” I am looking forward to seeing what God has to say about what is important to keep in my busy schedule!
Blessings,
Avery
Thanks for all the tips. Working this year on decluttering my mind and things. It’s a good feeling to learn to say no.
As a working mom of an almost nine month old, it truly feels like there is NEVER enough time to get caught up on things. I am in a constant cycle of feeling overwhelmed/stressed by everything that needs to be done, exhausted/frustrated by attempting to stay afloat, and like a failure when this does not happen. I look forward to the “peace that passes all understanding” that I believe will happen when I seek God’s will about my schedule and follow the guidelines He introduces to me through Glynnis. I’M IN!
Thank you for taking the time to teach and encourage us. I have been saying no and cutting back on a lot of things that were good but not God’s best for me. I am trying to organize and declutter both my home and my mind to focus on the important things. It has been a year now for me since I have started this journey with the Lord and I am not where I feel I need to be yet but I have made a lot of changes. Your daily challenges have given me fresh motivation to continue. Mental focus is where my greatest need is right now. Thank you once again.
I’m in! ….and because my life needs decluttering, I’m sure that’s all I should say so I can move on to my priorities that God has given me, but for some reason we feel the need to give you a “reason”, or “explain” or just tell you how thankful we are for your words of wisdom, and how much we can’t believe that you really can nail where we are right now in our lives…when, in reality, if we were really just taking your words to heart we would just say, “I’m in”!
I cant release ANY of my To-Do list! This weekend I will clutch it to my chest and pray for God’s Wisdom – what to release / what to do, and when to do it. Thanks Glynnis!
Giggling – My sister actually bought me a book a few years ago entitled “Say ‘No’ and Live to Tell About it!!” I’m a HUGE “Yes” girl and way over-committed!!! Anxious to prayerfully take my list (which is still incomplete) over the weekend and seek God’s “yes” – OR “no” – in each area! This has been a God-send to me! Thanks Glynnis, and Karen, for keeping us all on track and accountable!!!! Excited more about the decluttering of my heart as I am about ridding my rooms of clutter!!! Thank you SO much!!! Praying for your weekend.
I’m in — TV will be the first thing I cut back on. My husband passed away 5 months ago, and I’ve been using TV to take my mind off of things. I feel sure that reading my Bible more will make me feel better than most of those shows I watch. I have a lot of stuff to go through and decide what and what not to keep. I work a job with different hours each day, so I can’t keep to one schedule. That makes it a little harder, but with God’s help, I’ll do it.
Bless you all
Looking at my list, I am still overwhelmed. I think what needs to go on my list is anxiety! Thanks for the encouragement though, I look forward to at least, doing the challenges everyday. Whats keeping me going is the prayers at the bottom, reminding me, everything is possible with the LORD. Nothing is too hard for the LORD, and He loves me clutter and all.
I’m in! I always feel guilty about not doing the “good” things, but I’m realizing that I need to reevaluate my priorities and line them up with what God is trying to accomplish in my life.
I need to say no to the computer…
I’m in!
I’m in!
Count me in.
Thanks for this post! In addition to being a busy working Mom to two mischeviously great kids, six months ago I was the Commander for our Church’s AWANA Ministry and a Sunday School teacher for our Younger Youth. I felt so overwhelmed by trying to do everything and be everywhere for our kids’ school events, all of our Church’s youth events, and all of the children’s ministry events, too. (Needless to say, date nights were not an option at the time…) This left me extremely exhausted and grumpy, and my relationship with God, my husband, and my kids suffered. I had tried saying yes to everything, but as you said, for every yes there must be a no. After much prayer I realized that God wanted me to focus on my relationship with Him, spending quality time with my family, and leading the AWANA Ministry. I relunctantly stopped working with the youth, but it didn’t take long for me to realize that God had been grooming someone else for that opportunity. I learned a valuable lesson through that situation — when we say yes to too many things, we’re robbing other people of the opportunity to do what God wants them to do. As I evaluate my list of responsibilities again this weekend, I’ll be keeping that in mind, too. For every responsibility that I should say no to, God has prepared someone else for it and He wants them to say yes! This has made it much easier for me to say no to the good things that God doesn’t want me to do right now. Now, if only it could be easier for me to keep my home, work, and AWANA stuff more organized…
Glynnis,
The idea of anything you say ‘yes’ to also means you say ‘no’ to something else, is so true! This week I have been getting up 30 minutes early to have quiet, un-rushed time with God. I have had to say ‘no’ to more sleep. And it has been worth it!
Thank you for your inspiration this week!
I’m in!
I am the queen of procrastination! I’m hoping this blog will help me to gain the courage to tackle tasks as they come along so that I don’t feel overwhelmed when things pile up. I am going to ask God to take my self defeating thoughts and turn them to self motivating thoughts, and ask Him to give me the energy needed to do what needs to be done for Him, my family, etc.
Turn off the TV and get to that stack of books I’ve been wanting to read. These are so important to our brand new Women’s Ministry!
Hi, I’m going to say no to doing laundry…just kidding as it would just cause me to buy new clothes:) I’m going to stop reading multiple books at once and concentrate on just one.
I started out the year “trimming” my commitments a little, so this is an ongoing process for me. I am excited to be able to take some things off my list and also excited that there might just be some room for fun/hobbies when I get done!!
I’ve been working on de-cluttering my list however I don’t like “empty” space so I remove something and automatically add something else. That’s a habit I’m working on this year.
I’m definitely in! My husband and I blended our families in 2008 which is a total of 5 kids ages 14-20. I was always organized and everything had it’s place until my little family of 4 became a family of 7 and they quickly were all teenagers. We have a 9th, 10th, and 11th grader all in a row. Thankfully the older and younger ones are a couple years difference to give us a break with graduations! My oldest is starting college next week and I am going back so school in March, while I continue to work full-time and co-manage the household. I liked someones comment about letting go of the dishes even though she can get them done quickly. I can unload the dishwasher, reload it, and have the kitchen clean in 10 minutes. It takes everyone else in my family ‘forever’ and it doesn’t get completely finished!
I have already started to pray about this. Thank you because God has been showing me this is something I have to do. To choose what is best. This was just more encouragement. I am praying as I go to work this weekend to cut down from three days a week to two. I have to work but with a good budget which I have already made and with the Lords help in following it I believe we can do it. I am praying to be back home full time with my children. Please pray with me. This is my hearts desire.
Thank you simply for the confimation that is not just me. I am looking forward to making changes and great things in 2012. Many blessings to you.
I’m in!
I’m in – trying to juggle three parttime jobs, home, family, health, and elderly father is not going too well! I need the encouragement, as well as to be reminded that I need to seek God’s direction instead of my wishes or ideas of what I should/could/ want to do.
Thank you, thank you, thank you! This is confirming what God has been speaking to me about. He is showing me to that I need to CHOOSE to live intentionally. I love it when God reveals truth in multiple ways. Through this challenge, in my quiet time, on the radio, and in His Word. We can be assured His love never leaves us where we are at but encourages us to grow day by day. May you be blessed for being such a blessing to others!
Scared of giving up on some issues-like feeling so responsible for people who are really not my responsibility.Pushed to help and I have begun to question if that is God’s will especially as it hinders me from what I feel convinced He is calling me to.I need prayers…I live in Rwanda!!!
When I read these two sentences I felt like I could have written them:
“Most of us underestimate the amount of time things take. And we overestimate our uninterrupted time to accomplish them. I’m the queen of this.”
I always try to do one more thing before walking out the door (throw on a load of laundry, do the dishes, put up shoes in their proper place). I am almost always 15 minutes late. My sister-in-law knows this so well about me that she tells me to be places 15 minutes earlier than everyone else in hopes that I will get there on time.
Having a baby has just given me an excuse to justify my tardiness. Truth is I just need to let some things go and prioritize. I need to leave clothes in the laundry basket and prioritize spending time with family by making an effort to be on time when I see them.
I don’t know exactly what God will lead me to remove from my schedule, but I am ready to take a look at my schedule with Him and evaluate where I need to be spending my time.
I’m in!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I’m in!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THANKS
I’m so in!!
I’m in! I have a problem saying no! Sadly to often it interferes with spending quality time with my husband and kids. Would love to find a happy medium… is there is such a thing…and also have time to declutter my home.
I’m in!
I’m in . . .even though I am having a HARD time finding what I should say “no” to – all of the things on my list are truly MY responsibility. Perhaps I need to add more things to my original list in order to identify things I can delete???
Thanks for helping me become more at peace with all the tasks on my endless list!!
I see a small streak of light coming thru the tunnel
Blessings!!
I’m in – I’ve been trying to juggle three parttime jobs, home, family, health, and elderly father and it isn’t going too well! I need encouragement and admonishment, as well as being reminded that I need to seek God’s direction instead of my wishes or ideas of what I should/could/ want to do.
I’m in.
I am with you. Thanks
Thank you for this Challenge! I need to de-clutter every area of my life!
I am in. Thanks
The statement that caught my attention was: … prayerfully consider if there might be responsibilities you need to resign from after fulfilling your commitment. I’ve been contemplating resigning from one of several ministries at church, but may need to hang in there for another year till my term is up. Ugh!
Thank you so much for your help in getting organized but I still feel so overwhelmed.
Please pray for me..I am in
i, like many of you have a difficult time saying “no” because i think that either: a) i am the only one who can do it or b) i can do it better than anyone else! i pray that God can humble me so that i can see the truth. i also pray for clarity from God for what i should say no to! i am so grateful that my mom told me about this clutter-free challenge!
Thanks for helping me reflect on what God wants. I ask daily for his guidance and to lead me where he has planned. Have a great weekend!
I’m in! It is time to stop checking FB every hour and just check it once or twice daily. It is a time sucker.
I’m in. I could accomplish a lot if I don’t sleep or watch TV so much. I need motivation, because the tasks are overwhelming!
Feeling overwhelmed by the list alone…but I’m going to keep praying, having faith, and pressing on!
I’m in!!
I’M IN!!!!
This has been so great for me to focus on just tackling one step at a time instead of being overwhelmed by the whole staircase! Thank you so much!
Thanks for all these tips. I need them!!
I am sooooo IN!! I am about to lose my mind with all of this clutter in my brain. Thank you for following GODs will for your life and helping alot of women. God Bless!!
I am going to try today and not be too hard on myself.
One step at a time, right? I am in!
Kim
I’m TOTALLY in! I need this desperately – I have three kids and a husband in grad school, between all of their schedules I don’t ever seem to have any free time or more importantly “me” time. I’ve prayed for a way to relieve some of the stress I carry around and decluttering is definitely what I need. Realizing that it’s okay to say no to some things – is definitely going to be a process, but with God’s help I know I can do it. Thanks so much for this study – I can’t wait to see how I feel after I place some things on the “NOT TO DO LIST”
“What can only I do?” That’s a question I need to ask myself constantly. With two “special needs” teenagers, plus an 11 year old, I’ve spent many years doing things myself because it was easier than trying to get the kids to do it. In the earlier years, many things really were beyond their capabilities. But in many cases, that’s really not true. It’s just that they haven’t learned…and I haven’t learned to expect it of them.
Thank you. This is confirmation that I am on the right path. As 2011 was ending I realized how overwhelmed I was feeling and have been praying about what God would have me do. I had decided to fulfill the commitments made and then take a break to see where God would have me go and what He would have me do.One Bible study will end in 2 weeks and another is breaking for February through March or April so it will be down to one study to lead until I know God’s direction. I love teaching the Word of God but must be sure I am doing only and all that my Lord has for me to do.
Why is it so hard to remember and stay focused on the fact that it should be what God wants not what I want????? I am praying for discernment today!
I’m in. Finally…able to get some answers with out getting more stuff. Thanks for thd encouragement.
God has been urging me to give up reading fiction and watching TV. If I start a book or a show I my sit and waste hours that I should be doing other things. I have made some progress but reading is a lifelong habit (and sometimes I prefer the virtual life to real life.) I needed to see the truth that I can’t do the good things I want to do unless I get rid of the time wasters.
Thanks so much for these new and thought-provoking artcles! I’ve been so blessed by them!
PS I love “For every “yes” there has to be a “no.” “
I AM IN!! God is definitely using this with me as I came across this blog unexpectedly and decided to join the challenge. All the messages have touched me this week. I have a husband and 4 kids aged 18 to 4 and I never feel like I am “good enough” or “doing enough” for God, my husband, my kids, my church, the job, the house, etc…and never for me. Clutter everywhere! I went on a business trip this week and finished a book on the plane that I started reading 5 months ago! I will go through this for the 15 days, and then I already know I will repeat this process again slower to keep it going. Thank you for sharing the insight and prayers so that I can focus on God and let the rest sort itself out through Him!
I’m in!!! I especially liked the info on multi-tasking and how it’s not really efficient. I feel like there are certain tasks I can’t accomplish without taking a big chunk of uninterrupted time to get it all out and work and focus on it. Now I know I feel that way because that’s the way it’s supposed to be done! Now to find the big chunk of uninterrupted time!!!!!
I’m in…I really need this online encouragement to improve my organizational skills!
I’m in – new year – new reading plan in the morning. I chose to get up an extra 30 minutes early so I could spend time with God before my hectic day starts, that way there’s no excuses
Hey i’m in! Never thought about the idea for every yes there must be a no. Good method to keep focused on not just what we should be doing but also time-busters that we shouldn’t be doing. Take care!
I’m in!!! Thank you and many blessings!!! Barb
I’m in too! Working on my list has been an eye opener.
I’m in! Praying for discernment and taking a deep breath as I venture to peace and freedom on the other side of this challenge.
I’m in
I’m in!!! Thank you for reassuring me that it is OK to say no to some things in my life. I realize that I need to prioritize my schedule and to make sure I am doing the things God has for me to do first, but it is comforting to know that “No” is the right answer sometimes.
Thank you for my Friday blessing!
I’m in. This editing is good in theory but a bit painful !
Started saying no last year, and continuing the discipline of it this year. I tell my close girlfriends that we don’t owe an explanation to others when we say no either. Obviously you aren’t rude when you say/do it, but the only one we answer to is the Lord. I’m working extra hard this year to completely declutter my life and home.
I loved what you said about for every yes there has to be a no. We battled bed bugs this past year and now that they have been eradicated I realized that I have chemical residue all over the house on most articles and surfaces. We also had a leaking roof causing damage. All this on top of 4 children with disabilities. The youngest has downs and the others have ADD, OCD and LD. I have rheumatoid arthritis (mostly in remission) and fibromyalgia and menopause is starting. I know my calling after my God, family and taking proper care of myself is to mentor. If I take on too many things I am not available to mentor. You have confirmed a lot of what I am already doing and some decisions I need yet to make. Thanks so much, Twyla
I’m in and game for where God is taking me.
WONDERFUL idea on the NOT TO DO LIST> Never dreamed of that..maybe that’s why I’ve got too many things in my schedule. I add but do not subtract. Great timing since my daughter is going on a youth retreat this long weekend.
I know I need to say, “no” to too much internet time…sigh. Signing off now – wonder how many minutes/hours pass before I give in and find myself facing this screen again!
I am in. I need a change in my life. I have 6 children from ages 4 to 19 and my husband and I are separated right now. We are working on reconciling right now and things are very difficult for me. As you can imagine my kids keep me hopping and I have completely neglected my husband for years. I am working through all this right now with the Lords help and with the help of a christian counselor. I am just so amazed at how God is putting these biblical principals in my path to help me reconfigure my busy lifestyle at this very difficual time my life. Thank you for your ministry and being willing to follow God. Please pray for me as I endevor to make my list this weekend. The ladies at work laughed at me on Wednesday while I was looking over my list of things to do. It was 2 pages of my legal pad and that was just for the next week.
I’m in as well!! I have been taking my time and decluttering our home. That way, I have more time to sit and spend time with God. My goal this year is to have more of a one on one relationship with God and hear him when he speaks to me. Thanks for giving me some things to think about.
This is so hard for me, but I’m going to step down from my MOPS leadership position this year.
Wow…this is hard, but so very good. I’m definately “in!”.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom. I’m looking forward to applying this to my journey. I’m in! Blessings.
I’m in. I’m praying for wisdom in what to keep and what to say no to!
God Bless, I love your blog!
natalie
I so need this study. I do have to credit my husband, though. He used to get upset when I wanted to take on more. He started asking, OK, what are you going to give up? OUCH. I really thought I could do it all. But he helped me see that was a fallacy. So to an extent that has helped. But there are still struggles. I SO want to just collapse after working full time, being with my girls and putting them to bed, eating and cleaning. It is time for TV!
But, perhaps God is saying hey, what about me? I have been hungering soooo much for His word, just last night I was praying for time…. HA. So, I definitely need this study, thanks, again Glynnis, for your ministry!!!!
May God continue speaking to us all and guiding us along His principles.
Have a great weekend everyone!
I’m benefiting from these challenges already and can’t wait to see where things lead. I need to remember that I don’t have to do everything myself.
I’m in! Not sure yet what exactly I need to say no to, but will be praying about it this weekend. I know I need to delegate more responsibility to my sons seeing that I work full time.
Blessings,
Janet W.
I’m in! This has been a time of praying about the yeses and the nos in my life. Thanks.
Jennifer Dougan
http://www.jenniferdougan.com
I’m in!!
I am in too! I was trying to get to the bottom of the page on my iPad to comment directly, but am spending too much time reading comments as I go. Have to get working on my lists.
I have no problem saying ‘no, thank you’. Very freeing!
Such an encouragement! I am in.
I am in!
I’m in!! Thank you!
I’m prayerfully considering which ministries I continue to be involved in. I have recently been asked to join 2 groups at my church, but I know now that in order for me to join those 2, there have to be 2 to ease up on at the end of my commitments to them. This weekend I’m going to to a leadership retreat, so hopefully I’ll have time to pray and ponder on this.
I’m in!
I’m In! I have been beating myself up about a new stepchild for a year now, and how to teach her the “right” lessons in life without alienating her daddy, my new husband. She only visits every other weekend (if she feels like it and her mother doesn’t make plans); so, we cannot reinforce the lessons we try to teach her without the help of her mother, and that doesn’t appear to be working. I am removing some activities from my “to do” list that were placed there simply because of this guilt feeling. We can only live our lives as an example to her, and expect the tantrums a new teenager will fling…and PRAY! This is extremely hard because I want her to know God! Thank you for reminding me that it IS all in God’s hands.
Angela- I went through the same thing with my oldest- I married her dad when she was 8 (she is now 18) and her mother was completely against it and tried to make me the enemy. Through all the struggles, and the tears, and the triumphs, and the trials, God reminded me every day to simply Do My Best and Do the Right Thing. My daily reminder was “the truth will set you free.”
As someone who has lived it, God did watch over the process and got me through it, and the life example my daughter was provided won her heart over for God. We have an awesome relationship now and she is saved. She will watch you and she will learn….don’t force it and God will use it. You may not see it now or next year, but visible or not it will get through. God Bless You for doing it!
Im in.
I’m in. Awaiting help in this New Year to be All that God wants me to be.
Funny you should say “don’t call your boss and say Glynnis said to quit”. I gave notice yesterday and as of the 1st of February I’ll be a stay at home mom. I think this is inline with my priorities and God’s priorities for myself and my family. I’m anxious to implement your “clutter free ideas” on my new journey as only mom & wife(no longer someone’s employee). I truly thank Jesus for the opportunity to minister life into my family and give me the desires of my heart!
Heather
I’m in! Thank you for the challenge…I’ve really got some thinking to do. I’ve been feeling burned out in one ministry that my husband and I are in but at the same time I’m not sure that God wants us out of it and at the same time I feel that we can’t move on with God to other greater things unless we get out of this certain ministry. I will be doing some priority setting to hopefully get some clarification from God because I just want to please Him and I know I shouldn’t be worried about what others (it’s really not others is it? it’s satan using others…) think as long as I’m doing what God wants but sometimes others make it hard not to worry about it. God bless you!!
I love the thought that for every yes there has to be a no! It’s so hard for me sometimes to stay focused to what is truly important. It makes sense that if I say no to what is unimportant then there is much more time for the things that really matter. I just have to get that out of my head and into my heart.
Im in too! I pray that this year will be different. Thank you for sharing this info with us!
I’m addicted to blogs…each day I am going through my emails and changing the email subscriptions to rss feeds. still have them and not worrying about my inbox being so overfilled that I can still see messages from my 11 kids teachers, sigh…
thanks,
Holly
I’m in!
But my previsous comment disappeared. (sniffle sniffle)
Praying for God’s peace.
My comment disappeared too.
Heather – your comment got stuck in my “pending” file. I’m back in town now and approving it. So sorry but you have not missed out on being eligible for the drawing. I’ll do that later today.
Sometimes (most times) with me, I don’t see the obvious. I never really thought of trying to simply eliminate things when I add something to my “to do list” that is way too long. Just kept thinking I would somehow find the time. Thanks for opening my eyes to the obvious! Will start working on prioritizing and “eliminating” this year. I have been missing this important step, should help with the feeling of being so overwhelmed.
I’m in !! I’ve recently let go of some responsibilities that were not necessary, I just felt obligated to do them!! They are not even missed byothers, so I Was only tying myself up in the “clutter”. Thanks for your book!!
Count me in!
Thanks for ministering to us.
This is my first time participating in a group discussion. Thank you Glynnis for your insperation. i look forward to each days blog and applying it to my life. I have put off far to long joining one or our church’s study groups. It’s on my list and I feel sure that in the very near future I will make the time to join one.
Thank you Karen for offering you time and your book
I have been a “clutter-er” for YEARS! I’m praying that 2012 is my year to be freed. Beyond praying & asking God’s help – I am doing the work. Thanks so much for this opportunity to join in & for the inspiration & solutions!
This was an eye opener for me. I find myself committing to more than I should and then being late to everything I’ve signed up for. Being a Wife, Mom, Full Time Worker, Women’s Missions Director and volunteering for our children’s sports league is overwhelming. You never feel like you are giving enough, but I am finding I try to and it ends up not being the 110% you wished you had given for each item. Something has to give and I am not sure how. Looking forward to upcoming post and direction. Thanks for another book offer and a chance to win and become organized in our busy lives.
Blessings,
Marsha
I am FINALLY learning that I can’t add more to an already over-committed schedule & have turned turned the corner on that. In fact, I’ve recently been through a huge transition (an unexpected and mostly unwanted one) that allowed me to trim my schedule way back. I have been pleasantly surprised to discover how much I love the slower pace!!! And I have learned how fun it can be to say “no” to something so that I can say “yes” to something better.
I would love a copy of the book!
This year is a continuation of the “organizational overhaul” that I started last year. My family is a work in progress
But I do know that the one thing that is currently on my schedule that needs to go is our (MY) obsessive determination to have another child. It’s got to get off the “planning” part of my monthly planner! It’s been over 2 years, so obviously the scheduling and planning isn’t really working anyway. Time to let that stress go and leave it to God. I think it’ll free up a lot of my mind! 
Tough one…
It seems so impossible to free up the schedule, but I know that God knows what it should be, so I am praying that I will listen to him when he shows me how to make it better……..Struggling with whether to continue a bible study I am leading at work, so please pray for me to have clear insight – Thanks! This column is great and has given me a whole new perspective – God bless you!
I’m in! What a great post – I’ve never thought about a to do list being coutnered by a ‘not’ to do list….that really puts things in perspective, making me think about a lot of things differently…Thank you~!
I’m in! Love reading all the comments and realizing that I’ve got some good company on my journey…it’s so easy to feel like no one else can relate. I’m a list maker, but never even thought about a “Not-To-Do” list! 5 days down and feeling like this time I’m actually going to accomplish what I’ve been trying to do for years ~ that’s a great feeling!
I’ve just said “no” to starting up again in a book club and your words have helped me confirm I made the right decision. Thank you! Now to look at & pray about other things!
The idea of a “Don’t-Do-List” never occured to me. What an awsome idea. I’m in.
I’m in!…. well, I want to be, but I hate to admit I am already behind. I haven’t even started my list. Please pray for me!!! You have ~no idea~ how much I need this in my life. Thank you, Glynnis and Karen. You truly are a blessing.
I’m in! I have so much to learn. I would love to have a copy of this book!
I’m in. I am so looking forward to decluttering my mind, my schedule, my home, & my entire life.
I tend to think I’m good at “no” and keeping my schedule from overcommitment. I feel like I need to figure out where I need to serve, now that I am “not working” (ha!) but I have to remind myself that serving in my home with my Bible study time, husband, and kids is where God wants me right now. Maybe what I really need is some time to walk through my “mess” with God’s direction before I commit to anything additional.
Writing a “Don’t Do” list means taking that step to commit to actually not doing it, instead of beating myself up thinking about not doing it. Good stuff!
I am IN!! Whether I win or not…sounds like the book will be a big help!
I’m in. And have done this over and over the last couple of years. But can’t seem to figure out how I keep getting in that same predicament over and over. Now there’s where I gotta figure out what I need to be doing differently. I have cleaned my schedule to only be looking at a crowded one again in 6 mos to a year. Not cool.
I’m in
I have added so much to my schedule without taking anything off…Now I just have to remember to take something away when I add something.
I wanted to write “I need wisdom for meal planning”. I often get this wrong, which means I can be left with food that I don’t know how to combine. I’ve just asked the Lord what to do, and he’s given me a practical solution. He knows how to do these things.
I’m in….I have always felt like I could never do enough “good” things. But, I’m involved in so many “good” ministries that I’m not doing any of them very well…So, I’m going to fulfill my commitments to term and then let some of them go. It’s going to be hard though, because they are really “good” things. I just need to make sure I realign with the “good” things God wants me doing and not what I think I should be doing..
I am going to take off the textbooks- okay, one class out of three and start enjoying books I choose to read (not required to read). Working, Going to School and with 5 children, I need a novel every now and again to help me escape from being Mom for 15mins.
I’m in! I’ve committed to reading God’s Word daily in 2012 – instead of sleeping till 7 – 7:30 am, I started setting my alarm for 6:33 am (Seek ye first the kingdom of God). I read and mediatate on God’s Word before I get up. I still have my daily quiet time with God/Bible study later in the morning, but this is a great way to start my day without adding anymore clutter to my day.
I’m in….I feel overwhelmed especially after seeing all my responsibilities. I do not know how to say no…..one, because I usually want to do what I have been asked to do, and two, because I don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings. The clutter is dragging me down!
I’m loving all the helpful tips. We too often forget that we can ask God for help with anything, ANYTHING. Thanks for bringing this to light again.
Over the last 12 months I have given up leadership positions on two non-profit boards to make more time for my family. I loved those activities, but came to the realization that I had higher priorities. Tough decisions, but I have felt peace.
I’m in, however some situatiuons won’t allow you to say no. So the hole just gets bigger and more endless everyday. You know there is a purpose but your just not seeing it because it’s just to dark.
I need to work on “trusting” my thoughts…that they are from God and not from me.
I know I need to clear out some things that do not help me reach my goals so thanks for helping do it in a positive way. God bless you!
I’m in!
I want to do it all! Alas, I have learned that YES = NO.
I am IN!!!!
Lord help me with this one! SO tough…but… so necessary!
This is tough stuff, but much appreciated
Thank you for this journey. I just had to say no to a volunteer commitment working with orphaned and injured wildlife. It was really hard since this is something that I love, but I knew that my family was suffering for it. I know I can pick up at another time in my life, but not now with 3 small children at home. I need all the help I can get in getting organized and de-cluttered!
I am going to get help from my husband around the house instead of tying to be super mom and do everything myself. Gotta let go of that type A personality that keeps popping up!!
I’m in!
I’m in! I’m in to this and I’m into that. That’s why this has been a great study for me. My eyes have been opened to my “ugly” clutter in my head! I am soo looking forward to next week!
I’m in. And with God’s help we will get this done!
I def need to learn to say no, and get my priorities in line with God’s priorities and what He calles me to do!! amen!!!!!!!
I’m In!!!
I’M IN! I even have my husband following your blog and he wants to de-clutter as well so we are doing this together!
A little ah-ha moment this morning reading this…. it makes practical and perfect sense in order to say “yes” to some things we’ll have to say “no” to others. I am really excited to learn how to declutter my home without feeling regret later on because those are the things I need to start saying NO to!
Thanks for scheduling this task on a weekend. We will need lots of time to prayerfully seek God’s priorities.
I plan to try to do this over the weekend!
I’m in!!!
being a people pleaser/ codependent makes it hard to say NO to things to do or to people when they are in a need of me to do.I have to start using this analogy of if i say YES to something,then I also have to say NO to something also.THANKS!!!!
I feel your pain. I too am a people pleaser and it has nearly been the death of me several times. Praying for you!
I’m in
I’m in! My hubby and I were just talking about how to have more time to do what needs to be done with his business. I know that for me, I need to use the internet less and focus more on the priorities that will help his business grow – while still leaving time for homeschooling, family time, spiritual growth, etc. Thanks for the idea of a no with every yes!
I want to start scheduling my days…putting in God time first, and then everything else. I also want to set scheduled times for being online and playing on things like Facebook or other sites I enjoy so that they don’t consume my time. I also want to put something in each day where I am helping someone else…be it with a written note, a helpful hand, a visit, etc.
I am so thankful for all the great tips! I have 6 kids from elementary to college age. Seems as if the older they get, the more I want to be involved with EVERYTHING. I want to give them all the same “attention”. I have let a few responsibilities go in the last few years, but still feeling overwhelmed. I am excited to spend the weekend specifically focused on working thru what GOD has for me to do, not what is on my to-do list that never gets done! Thank you Glynnis and Karen for your insight and encouragement! Have a blessed day!
I’m in! Since I’m a control freak this is really hard. Right now my list is 4 pages and counting. I’m overwhelmed, frustrated, & need this study! My family needs me to do this…I need me to do this. Thank you so much for being so honest with us on what the problem really is. I’ve rested better as I’ve gone through the brain dump although just looking at the list is really, really hard. My family & I will be discussing & praying over this all weekend.
I did this about a year ago, but I find that I constantly have to KEEP doing it! This has come at the perfect time. I was just considering what I felt to be an obligation, but it no longer feels that way. I can say no.
I love the idea of saying no to something so that you can say Yes to something else. I always feel bad saying no to someone but then realized that a lot of times, I was saying no to myself by saying yes to everyone else. I resigned from my position on the PTO at my younger son’s school this year. I decided that I wanted to enjoy his last year at the school as just a parent. It took so much stress off of me and this school year has been wonderful for both of us. I still volunteer when I can but it is on my terms now. Thanks again for the challenge.
At work, I’m always the one who answers the phone on the first ring, replys to emails before my co-workers read the first line and had 3 cups of coffe beore they poured their first. They are always telling me “if the traveler’s plain isn’t departing in 5 minutes, it can wait 30; and to let someone else do it”. I’ve worked indepently and alone for so long, I forget what it meant to delegate. That is a goal for this year. Thank you for helping me to declutter my life.
It’s okay to say no even to things at church. Yes!!! I think that’s an area my man and I struggle the most. This study is so timely for us!
I’m in! So thankful I found this blog at just the right time in my life!
Wow! what an ahh haa moment. I don’t ever feel like I have the power to say no…like I will always let someone down when I do. I have to put in my mind that no means yes to the important things. Wonderful timing! Thanks!
I’m in!!!!
I’m in
I’m in!
I’m in!!!!
If I win Karen’s book, I’ll give it to a friend – b/c I already have it and love it. I keep it close by for easy reference!
Anyway, I know I need to say no to something when I say yes to something else. That is so hard to do! From now until April, one of the things I’ve had to say no to is allowing my middle child to participate in theatre. SO HARD b/c she is really very gifted in the area, and she is an active and social little creature. BUT, I have to work four part-time jobs to help make ends meet, and my husband and I have had our hands really full with transporting her to rehearsals and giving the parent volunteer time that is required. Happily, she understand. We are now thinking about the possibility of allowing her to work stage crew for the show, which will be only a one week commitment instead of several months. The plus for that will be that she will have the opportunity to see another side of theatre rather than always on stage.
I also am feeling now that I should take an online class to advance my current work skills, but am struggling with what I can give up if I do that. I really can’t stagnate in my skills, so it’s important to do, especially since our family depends on my work.
Oh, and since I’ve added the de-cluttering challenge, I am basically reading each day, then filing the posts, b/c there is absolutely no way I can keep up with this each day. Making the changes will probably take me about a week for each day given my work and family responsibilities. I’m still on “praying,” but am already seeing a difference in the clariy of my mind.
I most definitly needed this. I’m overwhelmed to tears on a daily basis. Thank you for sharing God’s message with us.
Decluttering mostly begins in the mind – I recently resigned from an annual volunteer committment that I had done for 20 years, yet had lost the passion for it. There is a little guilt feeling, but I will just be proud of how much I accomplished. Now there is space for something new!
I also need to say no to facebook! What a time sink!
I am in. Thank you for highlighting the stumbling blocks that keep me from digging out of my emotional and physical ‘clutter’. For every ‘yes’, there is a ‘no’. Simple, yet hard to face. I have used ‘shopping’ as my ‘therapy’ and ‘time-waster’ since my older daughter died very unexpectedly 5 years ago . I have recently begun to put the brakes on this money-and time-wasting ‘routine’ of mine. No more stuff!! It will never replace the loss of my daughter … and I knew that deep down.. It just felt good for the moment. Since starting your challenge, I have made the decision to stop shopping and to start sorting out the things that I really need to keep and the things that can be donated, sold, or pitched. I could fill up my whole house but that will not bring back my daughter. Thank you for giving me the courage to stand firm in my committment to get my life re-organized and de-cluttered. God bless you!
Oh Lisa— Praying for you. Thank you for being so brave to post such honest thoughts. Bless you.
This will require some thought. Regular commitments don’t tend to be my problem, it’s just getting a handle on daily life (kids, house, errands, etc.).
I’m in!!!
Sometimes saying no is the hardest thing! I am sooooo in!!!!!
I’m in – thanks for helping me put it in perspective!
I’m in.
Thank you so much for understanding and breaking this down into simple managable tasks. I have been in a pit of disorganized self defeat for years and my husband constantly confirms his thoughts on this. It has always seemed like a loosing battle, until now. I am giving up the need for approval from everyone else and only seeking God’s. Whew…I feel light the weight of the world has been lifted!
Looking forward to God’s help in deciding what I REALLY need to be doing.
With a lot of people, I have a problem with my child’s artwork, photos, etc. I want to make this a priority, but I am taking the time now to purge the non-emotional stuff (pantry, bathroom, etc.) to free my mind up for tackling the “scrapbook” dilemma. This Challenge has been a blessing and an inspiration to take these steps. Good luck to everyone!
I’m in!!!!
I am loving how relatable you are to me! Everyday I read a new post from you, I feel a weight lift off my shoulders, knowing I’m not alone. God wants better for me! Thank you from the bottom if my heart for being faithful in your sharing with all of us!!!
Thank you for Clutter -Free day 5. I have lived like I thought I could do it all in Jesus my whole Christian life. My main take way is for every “Yes” there is a “No”. What a relief. I will be praying this weekend for what God has for me. My plate has been too full for a long time. Thank you!
I’m in. I have had conservations with myself (scary, I know) about being confused on what I should work on, go to, get done next…..
Thank you for your insight into my confusion
I am already feeling peace.
I’m so in!
I am so in!!
Glynnis:
-I am in~ A “not to do list” is a brilliant idea! I keep adding more and more to my “to do” list….now I will add the column NTD and see what I can reassign.
Thank you for offering this course. This is an area that God has really been speaking to me about.
This is such a great study! It is simple basic steps that even I can squeeze into my “too packed” schedule. That is about to change. I am looking forward to walking in the freedom of a much lighter schedule, and getting my priorities in order. Thank you again for a great study.
I am in. As I read through all of these posts I see the possibility of being organized. I will be praying through my list
I’m in!!! Love the great insights! You’re telling me what I know but need to hear from someone else!
My goal is to be more organized this year.. not just physically, but mentally and spiritually.. I have 5 kids and a husband to take care of at home, I work full time, and go to school.. so I have been struggling. I can’t wait to get on track and feel more confident and relieved!
Thanks for all of the encouragement you give to me!
I am in! I love the questions to help evaluate what my priorities should be. Thanks.
Im in
I’m in and going to go back to my job description and see what is really required of me and what I am doing above and beyond my job. I know there are many tasks that I am doing that are not in my job. Thanks for the incentive.
I’m definitely in! My word for the year is “peace” and I know that I need to somehow find more time and balance in my life! Thank you for sharing your insight!
I’m in—-finally deciding to edit my life…….started with one shelf……..not enjoying it though………maybe because it represents failure??
I’m in. I have clutter at home and at work. I did actually do some filing here at work this week that I have been putting off. Now if I could just get to the rest of the filing.
Im in! Thanks for the opportunity!
Finally, someone who makes sense!!!Thank you!
I’m most definitely IN!!! Clutter is one of my major issues and I am so looking forward to working on de-cluttering my life, with the Lord’s help…. =)
I am in.
I am in!
I’m In and will be working this weekend to get my list down to a workable size!
Im in! HELP!
This is a hard truth to put into practice when there are so many needs being unmet. It bothers me to see the number of ministries at church being understaffed and those in leadership being overwhelmed when I could help.
I have to remind myself daily that my family is my priority and I cannot help with all of these great ministries at the expense of my family. It is okay to say NO and God’s purpose will be accomplished.
I am more effective limiting myself to my God give responsibilities and praying for these ministries than overcommitting myself to work that HE has not equipped me to do.
Thanks for the reminder!!
Arla
I’m in! Although sometimes change makes me nervous, I am excited to finally be organized and start enjoying life instead of running frantically from one thing to another.
I am so excited about all this organizatio9n stuff. It always starts from within. Thank you somuch for helping us all out.
I’m in!
The first thing I need to say no to is computer time, I will limit it to checking email once per day. No more wasting time on facebook and games.
I am starting back to school tomorrow and I will be busy. I will need to limit the fun books that I want to read in order to read my text books.
Thank you for the reminder to say no to the lesser things.
I’m grateful for this step-by-step advice but feel frustrated when I look over my list. Since I’m a single parent after over 20 years of marriage, the things on my list that have to be done seems overwhelming. What could be done easily by two adults just seems too much for just me.
I am in!! I am so glad I came across this challenge, of course it was through the Proverbs 31 daily devotions, but regarless I am excited to be a part of it. I will be going through some life changes in the near future and being able to de-clutter my mind is right where I should be. Thanks again!!
I am in!!! I just saw this challenge last night and am trying to catch up on the last 4 days – hopefully will have time over the weekend!
Love reading all of the comments from women just like me who feel absolutely cluttered and helpless! Praise the Lord that He has laid it on hearts to put on a challenge like this! Thanks so much!
I’m definitely in!!!!
I’m in!
I’m in!
I’ve actually already started this (for once I’m ahead!) We’re going to start homeschooling next year. Knowing that, I’ve already started slimming down my schedule, or at least making a plan for finishing up certain responsibilities so that I can slim down. Thanks so much for your tips.
I’m So In!!
Made me THINK…isn’t it “wonderful” how God made men & woman SO different? There are things that could be on BOTH my to do list as well as his to do list, but it amazes me how even though it is still listed, highlighted, *** on HIS list he can just put the list down & turn on a football game!! “It’ll still be there tomorrow” is what I hear!! NO, it won’t because I’ll end up doing it TODAY instead!!
HMMM…good place to start? …Yep just crossed off my list & re-highlighted it on His!!
Thank You for all your insightful help, came at a perfect time for me!!
It is hard but wise to say no to something when we say yes to something else.
Like when I buy a new sweater I should pass on one I have to be a blessing to another…Good thing God is patient with us all!!!
This is going to difficult…but I will work on it this weekend…Have a wonderful weekend away…
I’m in! This is going to be hard, but so worth it in the end. I have never really thought about what I needed to give up. I just kept tacking more things on to my to-do list each day, thinking that if there was one more thing I needed to do then I would have to squeeze it in somewhere.
I’m IN!!!
Going into this year, that I promised myself it was going to be better, it is shaping up to be a year of change. In the coming months, i’m going to file for divorce. This process is weighing heavily on my heart but with God’s strength, my girls (2 & 4) will be better for it. My new ambition this year(for organization and regaining control of my life), paired with a new start and renewed faith in God will make 2012 a better year for me and my girls and I pray that I will finally find the peace and organization in my life that i’ve been desperately searching for.
Wow, I didn’t realize how much I have been beating myself up for years, trying to accomplish so much in my day to day life, and only setting myself up for failure. I joined this challenge on a whim, and I am SO glad that I did. I’m still working on my master to-do list!
cannot tell you how wonderful this is! although I’m not doing so well with my list, I do have direction thanks to this challenge!
I’m in! So much good advice here!
Oh my goodness….this was SO helpful! I was actually walking around today with worries over getting everything done and how was I going to show a few of my friends that are going through hard times, that I truly care about them. I don’t want them to feel neglected,But I don’t have time to stop over to their homes.I am getting ready to start up a business and have dead lines that are looming. There are a few things I can put on my no list that might give me the time to be able to care for them and get what I need done. One of my NO list will NOT be this site. You have been So helpful. Love to you.
I am so in – what a great way to clear your mind and make a difference in your life!!
I’m in!!
I am in!!!! i am so tired of being overwhelmed!!! I have been praying for something like this!
Thanks!
Lisa
I’m in!!
I’m in. Pray. Seek God’s will. Ask for wisdom. Trust that He will answer. And above all, DON’T DOUBT.
I feel like my list is two categories: priorities and desires (ie make my bed or finish my song), so this challenge is a little confusing for me. Also, I feel that it is my responsibility, so long as I am not working, to take care of all the responsibilities so that my husband can just unwind when he gets home from work and we can spend time together, yet sometimes I feel overwhelmed. Any suggestions? Finally, could you suggest a way to organize a prayer list?
Amanda–
I organize my prayer list this way: I pray for my immediate family every day & any pressing requests that day. Then, I split the others over the week. Monday: missionaries, Tuesday: persecuted church, Wednesday: workers (church, ministry) Thursday: school & government, Friday: Family (extended family-cousins, grandparents etc..) and Saturday: our church staff. It is not so overwhelming that way. Hope that helps!
How exciting to see so many touched by this series. I know that it is exactly what I’ve been praying for…seeking direction to scale down and organize my life. This is going to be tough, but everything you’ve said has been exactly my life and what I need to hear and do. Bless you for your faithfulness.
Thanks for the series. I’m loving te steps to becoming clutter free in 2012 and that I may be able to continue it the rest of my life. I’m in!
I’m in…I think woman are programed to say yes – we want to help and be there for everyone except often ourselves. I actually said “no” politely this week to a co-workers request that I redo a list that I had prepared for myself in a manner that would be more user friendly to his needs. I provided an electronic version to him and he redid it to suit himself – no drama, no hard feelings, no stress on my part. It felt great!!
I’m IN too!!! Thank you for helping me face my fears….and tackle those things deeply rooted within me. I think I have a fear of failure, and if the mountain seems to high up, I won’t climb it. Thank you for speaking the words that are inside me but I haven’t wanted to admit. THANK YOU THANK YOU!!
I’m In, although I’m not sure what the Lord has in store for me to say “no” to!! Thanks for you’re guidance!
An “aha” moment…I’ve heard about the “put off/put on” principle before. I also had the honor of going to a retreat where Peg Rankin was the speaker on a very similar topic. She wrote a book called “How to care for the whole world and still take care of yourself.” It was revolutionary. As time passes, though, truths are often overcome by business. Today (this entire study thus far) was a reminder of a Biblical truth from Ephesians 4:22-24:
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Thank you, ladies, for using the gifts God has given you to bless SO many (even if you do end your sentences in prepositions : ) !
April – thank you for sharing that Scripture. What a beautiful way to connect these tips with biblical truths.
So many things are flooding my mind that I WILL be removing from my “To Do” list. It has occurred to me that the ones to be removed are the ones that only I am demanding of myself. Thanks…I needed this!
I’m IN! Thank you for the daily encouragement and steps. I will pray for God’s guidance of what to let go of and to maybe see something he has for me to do that I haven’t even thought of! Have a wonderful weekend!!
I’m in! I am going to let my 5, 7, 9, and 11 year old do the folding of the laundry no matter how long it takes them, and not worry that they are not folded ‘correctly’ and have them put it away, instead of doing it for them since it is faster for me. That would be one job off my list of things I have to do. Thanks.
Oh My Goodness….great response! I love reading your notes each day Glynnis, simply because I need YOU….now! I read your letter to my bible study group yesterday and we all decided we’re not loosing out minds, but are simply too fond of multitasking. Thank you for sharing those bits of wisdom with us and giving us reason to focus on one thing at a time…..simply simplifying our lives.
Your writing today spoke to me….I do that with my closet, something new comes in….something has to go. I hadn’t developed that in my schedule yet however….I’m still living like I can do it all…..so today I volunteer to let go of most of my computer time in the morning and read scripture with my coffee, instead of emails. I love my friends and family and many of them live out of town, so this is my time to feel close to them. I will leave them for later in the day and spend that time with my Lord to better jump start my day…..I know it will be more productive all the way around.
I struggle with organizing….I’m a keeper of thoughts, poems, quotes, letters, cards and memorabelia. I live in a small house and love the “uncluttered” look….so my drawers, closets, basement and under beds are packed full of things I have a difficult time getting rid of. I barely remember what’s all there…..and am overwhelmed to think of the daunting task of sorting through it all. I appreciate any and all suggestions and direction….THANKS! And God Bless you for your ministry.
THis is great! Boy do I have decisions to make! Thanks for this great info!
Emilia
I’m in…ready to de-clutter my life and find God’s peace and rest! Thanks for the encouragement and great ideas.
I’m in…but it won’t be easy!
I am in! BABY STEPS! Thank you!!!
Thank you for the baby steps! I am in!
I am in! I am a sentimental packrat, not one to let anything go to waste, and I move at the speed of a turtle, so I’ve created quite a mess for myself! I’ll take all the helpful tips I can get! I’ve read Glynnis’ book (loved it!) and would love to read Karen’s book, too!
I’m in! I’m going to start having my two kids (ages 5 1/2 and 4) start taking charge of certain tasks, like putting away their laundry, picking up toys before bed, etc… so I can have time to do things that I feel called to do instead of spending my days just trying to get caught up on housework. I never seem to find any time for myself, and it’s going to get even more difficult with baby #3 due in March, so I need to get my priorities straight right now and learn to delegate more.
Wow! Just got started today but I can’t wait to dive in head first. Amazing how God places things on your heart and mind and then he provides the ways and means to see your assignment through. We were asked to WRITE DOWN the top three passioned that we wanted to see through in 2012 and the #1 thing on the list was Mental Clarity by means of getting organized and cleaning out the clutter in my mind and home. And here I am, maybe a couple days late but better late than never they say. I can’t wait to see the end result a few weeks from today. I can’t wait to get home to get started on my lists!!!! Thanks for being the vessel that is helping so many women with our daily struggles in life. Wishing all of the women taking this journey the best!!
What a BLESSING you are!! Thank you for helping me see how to help myself. This topic has been on my mind for a long time and I have never felt I was going to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I do not see the light yet…. Hope I will very soon.
I’m in!!!!!
I’m in! I’m not sure what I will cut from the list but I’m looking forward to the release and relief!
It’s really reassuring to see that others are in the same boat!
I’m in!! I have to many research ideas that I need to get off my list until a later day. Thank you for setting my priorities in line with what God wants me to do!!! The important things are things that affect my family & my walk with God!
Count me in! Can’t wait to see your ideas for Monday!
I’m in! The one thing I am going to say no to is the excuses my kids give me for not doing their part to help. This is not an easy thing for me, but I need to do it. Sometimes for me it is easier to just do it rather than sit and listen to them argue. No more.
I’ve really enjoyed this blog series. Thank you so much for helping me.
I’ve come to realize that while I FEEL busy all the time, I’m really NOT! Except for the hour or so before my husband gets home from work – then I kick it into gear each day. I know that there are other things that I could be doing – God things, but just don’t.
Well, it’s true…I used to be so organized, but not in an awfully long time. So I’m in Glynnis and Karen. And thanks for sharing your knowledge, insights, encouragement. We can be so hard on ourselves about this kind of stuff. I appreciate your gentle touch. I have a hunch I know what to give up, but I’ve been part of something for so long, it’s hard. I’m a holder-on-er. Sometimes my hands and heart are like sticky glue…keeping me stuck! And of course this commitment is for a good thing and is so near and dear to my heart, but I think it’s time. Maybe there is someone else God wants to use in my place…someone He will bless as He has blessed me. Have a good trip…and God bless you both as you moderate hundreds of comments. Daunting but awesome!!
I’m in! Praying for God’s wisdom on what I need to let go of and what needs to be my main focus.
What? You mean “I” can’t do it ALL? My “to do” list is never ending…
I am going to have to quit reading blogs. I love them. They sometimes encourage me, sometimes convict me, sometimes I learn something new and sometimes they make me laugh. They have value, but not at the expense of higher priorities God has called me to.
Feeling overwhelmed at the moment… but after reading a lot of the comments it’s such an encouragement to know that I’m not alone & others struggle with this problem as well. This is an area that I have been wanting to get control of for many years… but it has been easier to just head out the door and take care of everyone & everything else then to tackle this overwhelming clutter. I appreciate all of your comments and sharing & I appreciate you Glynnis for your faithfulness to God in reaching out to others. I am sooo…. ready for a change and know that when I googled how to declutter and got connected with Glynnis & all of you …I KNOW God has answered a long awaited pray & has a solution. Praise God for all of you & have a blessed weekend. Will be praying on how God would have me move forward with this challenge! ^-^
Debbie – I’m so glad you found me. Hang in there. Just take it one step, one task, one day at a time. There’s no rush.
Count me in.
I’m in——am always feeling like a tornado struck and don’t know where to begin—–
My cell phone became water damaged and was out of commission for about two weeks…right before you started this challenge. I had all my to do list neatly compiled there…and they are backed-up and safe…but conveniently for this challenge, Not accessible!
When I finally got the phone fixed, I had written down a list of the apps I needed to re-install. The list was nearly 100 long. I realized that I didn’t need all those very easily. I had no problem only restoring the ones I needed and used to make my life easier. Daily Bible went on first…and next Toddler Lock, a must have, for anyone with children under 5!!!
I pray this to do/want/need lists are just as easily edited. Afterall, once the program is accessible, I have to cut and paste it all back in. He has been allowing me to forget the lists and the heavy stress of accomplishing those tall orders and letting me do only what I see needs doing right in front of my face. I have never felt so ready to do my and HIS work! God gave me a great gift of focus when he allowed that cell phone to fall in the toilet!
As my kids get older and more involved in school activities and sports, it seems that my organization in ALL areas of life have taken the back-burner. Over the years, I have gotten much better at saying “no” to being the mom in charge and instead offering to send supplies or food — that has simplified life a great deal. With that being said, I recently had to make the difficult decision of saying “no” to something I loved doing — playing the piano on the contemporary worship team at my church. Even though I know that is a gift that God has bestowed upon me, it was beginning to feel like just another thing on my to-do list, which completely took the worship out of Sunday morning.
Figuring out what you can and can’t do, as well as what you should and shouldn’t do are the biggest challenge in staying organized and on top of things for me.
Thank you for this series of blogs — I haven’t had time to apply all of them, but just having these guidelines in the back of my mind is helping already!
I’m so in! We are in the middle of an older child adoption, active in our church and other ministries and we (I) homeschool our 3 biological children. Somethings gotta go as the demands on our family change.
Thank you so much for the encouragement and insight that have been offered these last few days. I look forward to the upcoming information in the days ahead.
I’m in and I love the for every yes there is to be a no on my list
I’m IN. I am overwhelmed with todays task, but I so desire to be in the center of God’s will. I am struggling with not being sure what my passion is. I am nearing an end to my work with HS students at church, and I was totally passionate about that, but I feel God is moving me, and I don’t really know where. It is a little scary, but exciting too. I am really enjoying this challenge. Thank you for doing it.
Yes, I’m in!
I’m so excited to be a part of this! And FINALLY I feel like I have permission to say no to those things God is not calling me to do without the guilt! I am looking forward to having more time to do those things I feel God has called me to do,
Right before Christmas break, I chose to not return to my job at our local elementary school, so perhaps I am the only one posting who is saying that my life has more free time in it now than it has in many years. I thought that I would jump right away into decluttering and such, but instead have found myself on a spiritual journey that has given me a long-desired breakthrough just this morning! Thank you for addressing these important issues.
I’m in. I have been a single parent for 15 years and now that the boys are in University I have gone back to school and am still working full time as a teacher. We have one vehicle and three drivers so I walk everywhere and use that time to talk to God (5 km) each day to work one-way. It has been wonderful! I like the concept of one no for every yes. This will also work with my students at school and I am going to share this tip with them. They have been on the de-cluttering journey with me. Thanks for this wonderful opportunity.
I am IN!!!
I am in – and I am praying this weekend for God to help me in defining and editing my responsibilities to truly reflect HIS calling for me.
Different stages of life require more of me – and right now, hubs and kids are #1!
God bless you!
I’m in…and thank you!
I love that all these ladies are saying YES to reading this daily post and are taking action… oh, that I too would be one of them!
YES, I am in to say NO!
Sorry… I am not trying to be anonymous above ! I just don’t know what I am doing posting! I’ll add my name now!!
My schedule is immensely overcrowded. I’ve come to the realization (even before this study began) that I have intentionally been using my busyness to justify myself. My subconscious thinking was that as long as I’m busy, it means I’m successful… when in reality, all I’m doing is burning myself out. I know there are many things I should be able to cross off my to-do list, but quite honestly, this may be more painful than creating the list in the first place. But I recognize it must be done.
Limiting my to-do list, yes, I’m in…but I’m thankful to have the weekend to pray and seek God’s will.
I’m feeling very hopeful!
This challenge was sent by God right to me
My doctor told me that my adrenals are exhausted and that I needed to take 2 things off my plate, BIG things she said. I haven’t been able to decide what to cut out. Thanks for giving me a plan and a focus!
Tricia– God has such great timing!
I am definitely IN!!!! This is great!!! Thank you again for doing this challenge!!!!!
I am still feeling a little overwhelmed at the size of the “To Do” List, but must say I am feeling hopeful. Thanks for reminding us: to pray for wisdom; what our Godly priorities should be; to pray over our schedules & to do list; and that it is ok to say no.
Biggest gem for me this week is what I am not going to do:
1.You don’t want to do any more,
2.You don’t need to do anymore but it’s habit,
3.God has clearly called you away from it but you haven’t made the break.
A new paradigm shift of thinking…thanks Karen and Glynnis!
From all the way Downunder, I’m in too. I spend a lot of time worrying about others, especially my daughter who has had some major struggles in her life. That actually takes up a lot of time. Breathe in breather out, and (at least try) to let it all go.
I’m in.
Thank you so much for encouraging me to pursue His will and desire for my life!
Blessings!
I have been struggling with keeping things that I really don’t need for a long time so I am thinking that this study will really be helpful. I am looking for God to make changes in me. Thank you for your help.
I am in! Thanks so much for making me feel normal! So glad it’s not just me feeling this way. And now, I am going to reply to an email asking me to volunteer for something that I really didn’t want to do….I had put off replying, because I felt like I “needed” to do it. I am going to say “no” without guilt! Thanks again!
Debbie W.
Oops! Didn’t mean to be anonymous!
I’m in….just have to start practicing saying the word: “NO!” And remind myself: “its for your own good!”
This is such a “wow” for me and am so encouraged. Us women do get so busy trying to keep up, but sometimes we have to say no and it’s hard. I am praying for every Lady doing this challenge that God will see you through. “Keep looking up – God is looking down”.
Count me in….for clutter-free living! My prayer for the new year was to declutter my life physically, mentally and spiritually. What an answer to prayer!
I will pray and seek God when I feel the overwhelming “busyness” knocking on my door. I want to do those many good things but must realize that the “best things” are God given and revealed if we only take time to remember our first love – God… who always has “our back.” Thank you Lord for your grace… thank you ladies for your obedience and willing to share with us….
I’m in!!
I’m in!!
I have never tried to read the bible in a year that would give me hives. However with the way you put I probably could do it. I instead took the easy more difficult short term way of reading it in 90 days. I love the way you are helping me declutter my mind and also helping me to let go, Yes I am ALL in and I am goign to pray this weekedn for GOd to give me guidance on things I need to let go of. I want to be a servant of the lord not to service projects! Thank you for all you do and all you give!
I’m in! I just really, really have to pray about what to give up. There are already some things I am praying about! Please pray with me. It is tough as a pastor’s wife because everyone expects you to do everything.
I so need this challenge. I, like Kim above, need to declutter my life physically, mentally, and spiritually. I find it hard to get rid of ANYTHING! My cluttered mind makes it hard to concentrate and follow through. Thank you for this fresh look at living a clutter-free life.
I’m in!! Thanks for sharing, caring and praying.
Thank you so much for this series! I am working through your plan. I look forward to decluttering my life and my home as we are packing and moving over the next couple of weeks. Perfect timing!
I’m in! Thanks for your hard work!
Thank you fir today’s word. I tend to always overextend myself. I’m in!
Great idea!
I am loving this… but the things I WANT to get rid (cleaning/organizing) is what my home needs most. I feel I need to commit to doing a little every day… rather than letting it pile.
Karen, I have and love your book, (it is out on loan to another not-so-organized friend of mine.) I met you in Frankenmuth a couple years ago. You are a great speaker. God bless you and your ministry.
I suspect that I will be saying “no” to myself. Specifically, no, now is not the time to sit down in front of the computer…. I pray that God helps me (us) to find balance.
Thank you.
I’m in! I need to give up a lot of extra “computer time” like facebook, e-mails etc. and focus on the important things.
I am so ready to get organized. 2012 will be my year!
Thank you for this well-timed and well-organized series. Not what I was expecting at first but quickly realized that I needed to take of the clutter in my heart and mind before any of the clutter in my house could completely be taken care of. It’s been hard work each day but so worth it! Thank you!
Thanks so much for your guidance and support. I’m in and ready to make room in my life for what is really important!!!
I’m in! I suffer from bipolar, and sometimes I zip around like an battery-operated bunny on wheels getting everything done, and sometimes, I don’t get out of bed for days on end. I really need this challenge to deal with the clutter in my life, and to balance the bunny days and the molasses days.
Thanks for obeying God and doing this thing that so many of us women needed to be guided through. God bless you!
Oh, this is all the way from Nairobi- Kenya.
I’m in!
I will say “no” to watching television in the morning before reading my Bible and getting ready for work. Also, no computer work until I have done the previous activities and then if time permits. a short time to check emails before leaving for my work day.
I am in! (ouch got my toes) Which I think is good, because I want to do more with my life for HIM!!!
I’m in and working on it!
I’m in! It seems the older I get (at the ripe old age of 29), I find myself trying to do more and more things. I tried to make sure everything is taken care of, spending time with God, taking care and having time with my kids, I found myself trying to do more and more things outside my home and get involved in church activities. I thought to be happy, I had to have my date calendar filled on every line, making sure there was no room to be bored. Boy, was I wrong! I am slowly learning how to set my priorities and its a day by day process and ever so thankful for grace!
I’m in! I am going to say no to my morning facebook check and say yes to daily scripture reading and prayer
I am going to start telling my children to pick up after themselves since they are 8 and 14 years old. This will give me several minutes to do something on my to-do list!!!
Im ALL in. But first let me say I didnt know how much stuff I really felt responsible to do until it was all on paper. It was hard to try to get some out because I felt they were all very important to get done, but I guess deep cleaning the house I can get some help from my husband to get it done sooner can be some of the things and arranging grocery shopping list that he can help out with at times. Thank you so much for all the help in this area, Im so excited to see the end of our studies. God bless!!
God always knows what I need to hear but this spoke volumes today!
“To have my hands free to receive God’s Grace, I have to be wiling to let go of whatever I am clinging to.
I’m in and I am going to fulfill by commitment on the church board of director through June of this year and not seek re-election. I am also going to off load doing everything for my nearly grown children onto them and get my husband to help me and hold me accountable.
I am going to limit the amount of time I spend on saving on groceries/goods and just concentrate on major sales and coupons. I’ve been speding too much time for the return. I don’t want to do it anymore, and don’t need to do it anymore now that it is more difficult to save a significant amount on a number of items.
Thank you
I have really appreciated receiving your emails lately as I have been feeling especially tired, overwhelmed, and not ready for another semester of school on top of other responsibilities. I just feel like most days I stay so busy going and doing and still don’t get everything done…i’m not yet sure of what I even can cut out. Thank you for your encouragement and insight though – It is much appreciated! You have already been a blessing to me – thank you for your work and obedience to the Lord!
I’ll have to think hard about what to give up but I know there are things….like surfing the web mindlessly, baking (which I love but it always takes more time than I anticipate from beginning to end!).
I’m in! Good to know that for every ‘yes’ there is a ‘no’. I have a hard time saying ‘no’ at church and if I do say ‘no’ I tend to feel guilty (I know that’s the enemy). But God knows what my priorities need to be and I need to trust Him to help keep my priorities balanced.
I’m in…need all the help I can get to rid myself of clutter and get organized. Oh there was a time in my life prior to children and I pray for balance!
I am in!!
This is going to be super hard for me, but easy for me and God!!
This was so good today, and I am definately in! I so needed to hear what you posted today. It made so much since to me…you have to say no for everying you are saying yes to. Thank you so much for your ministry.
So, our church just began the One Month TO Live challenge this week and these posts, especially yesterday’s and today’s speak to much some of the same topics, multi-tasking, doing God’s to do list, making a NOT to-do list. Someone posted yesterday that they love how God repeats himself to us. Amen!
I’m in…I have the same “resolutions” every year. I have never looked at it in this light. Great post.
“Become willing to see the hand of God and accept it as a friend’s offer to help you with what you are doing.” – Julia Cameron
“But between the plan and the operation, there is always an unknown. That unknown spells victory or defeat. … Some people call it getting the breaks. I call it God. God has His part in everything. That’s where prayer comes in.” – General George S. Patton Jr.
Wow,
I am a “yes” person. Thanks for giving me the tools to say “no”. It’s going to be a long weekend!
Consider me in!! I once heard that we need to empty ourselves so that God can fill us. So true and yet we continue to fill our lives with so much. My motto this year – Stop being so much like “Martha” and find time to be more like “Mary” and just sit at Jesus’ feet. The other things can wait. Just recently, I had an opportunity to do just this and I have to tell you it was the best and most precious time spent. God Bless!!
Praying about what can be said no to. I do need wisdom!
Definitely going to be seeking God this weekend because I don’t see anything I can take of the list yet! Excited to see what he will say “No” to and how willing I will be to obey.
I’m stepping out in faith!
I thought I was the only one who got lost in the dairy aisle for 30 minutes! HA!
We’re all wandering around there. Next time, let’s meet for coffee instead!
Im in!
i know that God would help me to say no! when i need to say it. Thanks for the tools you gave me, so i can start prioritizing my list.
I’m in! Going to limit my social networking and also give some household responsibilities to my 3-year old that are easy enough for her to do but will also help me out tremendously!
I’m in!
I love the step by step way you have organised this Glynnis….thanks so much, it already seems like a lighter load!
sugary hugs
Wendy :O)
I am in!
I have looked forwarded to my lunch hour this week. That is my study time. I have made a page of notes every day. You have given me so much to think about. I am so thankful for this study. I have five daughters, five grandchildren, married, and work 40 hours a week. Someone is always wanting something and I am beginning to feel the stress of always trying to help out somewhere. I have started making changes in my life. Started doing things for me. Diane
I’m in!!
I’m not sure yet what I need to give up. Still praying and seeking the LORD, but count me in would love to win a copy of Karen’s book!
I’m hooked on this clutter-free idea and can’t wait for the next 10 days. Thanks for taking the time to help! First thing: only checking email at certain times of day!
This is just such a revolutionary thought. I’ve never read an article before that suggested (prayerfully) eliminating things from our life. I almost feel like you have released me from a burden to do more and be more. Thank you, thank you from a perfectionist who is trying to let go and be there for her young family!
Count me in, girls! I am saying, “no!”, to my daily to-do lists that get to be 12 to 15 items. I will be prayerfully considering how to keep it short, sweet and attainable!
Thank you so much for your insight!
Count me IN!!!
I’m in. My mind feels so cluttered all the time and I can’t get anything done. One area I feel I need to cut out is some of my work hours. I have the opportunity to work only Saturday and Sunday and be home with my kids during the week but I’m having a hard time taking that leap. If financially I could afford it I wouldn’t work at all. I feel like my time is split between so many different things that I’m not doing anything well. At this stage in my life I feel like my priority is to be a wife and a mom. I’m looking forward to the rest of this series so I can hopefully find Lu get organized!!!
Thank you for this, it is definitely a start in the right direction! Still jotting things on my list, but what a release it has been. I’m in!!
Today’s Prayer from a daily on-line devotional I receive was so timely…………..
Dear God, There are so many things I can do…or not do. I can sit and do nothing or I can attempt to do many things. Please show me, Lord, what will you have me to do?
I am open to your leading and willing for You to work through me to accomplish Your will. Whether my purpose is to accomplish something small or great, I know that it is important to the work of your kingdom and your plan for my life. Guide and direct me,
In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.
Love that Angie!
So glad I read this. I am writing this down to pray on days when I’m finding saying no so difficult! Thank you for sharing, Angie!
Today’s message about prioritizing our schedules really hit home with me. Actually I started in early November trying to gracefully “bow out” of some activities and responsibilities because I had basically “crashed & burned”. I needed immediate action to stop the cycle of insanity. I was slowly killing myself trying to be way too much to way too many people.
The prayer at the conclusion is powerful … specifically this sentence: And I ask that You protect them from guilt over saying no, and fill them with Your confidence. WOW. AMEN & AMEN! This is exactly where so many of us “striving for excellence” women put ourselves in the crosshairs of our crazy lives! To not feel guilty for “letting someone down” or “not completing an obligation” or “not trying to be Super-Wife or Super-Mom or Super-Employee 24/7″ has to be such a freeing feeling.
I have had glimpses of that feeling, but will most definitely be praying specifically for God to increase my confidence. As long as we firmly believe we are in His will, we should NEVER carry guilt. That gives more power to satan and is totally defeating.
Thank you & God’s blessings to you!
Vicky
I’m in because I’m cutting out computer time. The internet, while such a wealth of info and opportunites, sure cuts into my time in a day to get things done that really need it. So this year, I’m saying bye-bye to all the extra time that I spend online, browsing, checking e-mails, looking for that bargain that we really don’t have the money for anyway. So, I’m in!
I am in. I definitely need to be in. I know my clutter has held me back from being used by God. I am too busy trying to hide my clutter that I often say no to ministry opportunities which always leads to feeling disappointed in myself.
It took me awhile to find this comment place…but GOd is good and helped me…by the way I love shopping at Target!
I’m IN!
I’m in! Like a previous poster, I’m being treated for breast cancer. I have had chemotherapy and a mastectomy and started radiation today. Clutter was bothering me before my diagnosis, but I didn’t make much progress addressing it until a friend started helping me as a way of supporting me through my treatments.
Prayers being sent your way Nancy. I am going to visit my sister-in-law today who is also a breast cancer survivor. We’re gonna de-clutter her basement.
As a single mother of a college freshman and a 9 year old special needs daughter…I work full time out of the home and in the home…active in my church, up until a few days ago, was the asst. director of our Women’s Ministry and on the praise team, and do to some changes in our church, resigned from both of those positions, I have a hard time saying “NO”…but I am a living example, if you don’t learn to say no and step away from “things” that are causing you stress, and are clearly not God’s will for you, He will begin to strip them away from you!!! Learning this lesson the hard way! Soooo very thankful for this time of De-cluttering! Thanks for all you’re doing to help us be the best we can be!!! Blessings!
I’m soooooooo in….
I’m in! So much clarity from today ‘s entry! Thank you, Glynnis.
Wonderful message and material today! Thank you!!
I’m in! I’m loving this clutter free blog – it’s like you’re reading my mind. I thought I was the only one this happened to. Thank you so much for doing this! I have hope!
I’m in and am thankful for the challenge! I had been hording and re-checking a clutter book from the library that I never had time to read. I found the Proverbs 31 email on January 9 (dated 1/3) while attempting to clean out my cluttered inbox. I signed up imediately, ordered Glynnis’s book and the next day returned the unread clutter book to the library. I am thrilled that this is a daily process. I love the prayers and feel a peace and excitedment about Glynnis’s approach and including God!
I do have to admit I am printing out each day (You won’t call that clutter, right?) and have started a folder. I love to highlight and re-read the parts that speak to me.
Thanks you Glynnis!
I’m In!
Finding quiet in the busyness of life has been heavy on my heart for many months now, and I embrace this idea whole heartedly. I will continue to pray for God’s will in finding quiet amongst the many many obligations in my daily life. Work, school activities for two children, hockey, karate, youth groups, small adult groups, Sunday school lessons, youth group activities, daily life, and keeping my workout schedule (which unfortunately seems to get pushed aside to make room for things others want). Thank you Glynnis and Karen. I echo the words of many, YOU (both) are truely a blessing.
Thank you for your insights! I enjoy reading your thoughts each day!
God has already laid it on my heart that the #1 thing on my “not to do” list…is to not go back to bed after my husband leaves for work so that I can make that time my prayer time. I just love “sneaking” in that extra hour of sleep each weekday. But I also love having regular time set aside for prayer. I try to pray while lying in bed, but you know how that goes.
Now to go find a quiet place and catch up on my “Clutter Free Challenge Homework”! My perfectionistic tendencies make it hard to start making that “Master Responsibilities Chart.” Gotta start somewhere though…
I’m saying “No!” to wasting time in front of the TV, and “No!” to doing everyone’s laundry all the time!
This de-clutter is a God-send! Thanks!
Yes— Your family members can learn to run the washer & dryer. It isn’t rocket science
Thank you, Glynnis, for your inspirational devotion to God. You are a blessing to all whose lives you touch.
Thank you so very much. . I needed this today. . my husband has been telling me this for quite some time now. “I’m in. . ” not totally sure what this will look like for me yet, but I’m thankful God does and he will light my way! One thing I know for sure, I’ll not be wasting so many of my evenings after the kids are in bed watching TV, even if it’s while I fold clothes. .the Lord has already convicted me on that one. . working on it!!!!
I’m in! As my family has grown, I have continued to add and add, and never take away from, my schedule. And now I can definitely identify with saying “I USED TO BE so Organized!” So glad for this clutter-free challenge and Glynnis’s book.
Since I’ve retired (1 yr now), It seems that my life has become so disorganized because I’ve taken on TOO many responsibilities & one of the things I need to learn is how to say is NO. I’m thankful that God has given me the ability to get more involved with my church & the people who need my help, but sometimes I feel overwhelmed.
Thanks to you Glynnis for allowing me to be part of your Clutter Free Challenge & thanks to my friend Jackie for emailing this information to me & lastly to God for believing in me, when I sometimes don’t believe in myself.
I’m in! I’m having trouble taking anything off my list though….Ugh!
I try to make sure my YES means YES and my NO means NO. But I say YES too often! This de-clutter challenge has been great to get at the root of the issue. Thank you!
I’m in too!
I’m in!
I am enjoying the clutter clearing so far. I am sure evenually you are going to strike a nerve, but for now I am still with it….
My work is very hectic during the day, and my mind to blown by the time I get off at 5pm. I really need to limit the trips to the grocery store. There are times when I go back to the store three or four days a week after work because someone forgot to put something on the list. There are alot of daily shoppers and I want to get better organized so I do not stand in line at Walmart after working all day.
i’m in!!! i vow to remove chaos from my mind and list…
My NOT TO DO list includes:
Look for a Job!
I have been looking for work for about 3 years now…nothing too stressful, but a little extra income, and it has to fit into kids @ school hours. Nearly impossible…it is making me feel frustrated and crabby and not worthy. You made me realize that I already have a job…a career really…in raising my children and supporting my husband and managing the gifts God has bestowed upon us. Afterall, everything is really His and I one day want to hear Him say, “Well done good and faithful servant.” Just realized I have the most amazing boss in the whole world and being organized and disciplined is for His glory…not mine!
Work willingly at whatever you do,
as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.
~Colossians 3:23
Thank you for being a blessing in my life!
Lori
I have just turned fifty and had decided that I was going to declutter my home, mind, and activities but wasn’t quite sure where to start. Now I have a wonderful starting point. Thank you.
It seems like you’re speaking to my heart! Thank you for trying to help others in this area.
I know that God never intended for me to be this overwhelmed with a list of things to do. It’s a real struggle deciding what needs to be crossed off because it all seems so necessary. I’m determined to unclutter so that I can pursue the life God has planned for me. Thanks so much for your wisdom and encouragement, Glynnis!
I’m in — because I know I know your encouraging daily sessions will help me get things done that need to be done. I am so thankful that God laid on your heart to help the rest of us de-clutter our homes and lives. God bless — Deanna
I’m in!
Thank you for today! This speaks right my heart in a place that I have been decluttering for a few months. Such a hard decision and was so stressful until I finally realized these are not my plans that matter but God’s plans for me. His good and perfect plan to glorify him. Although it seems do easy it is hard but with God’s strength and power in my life I can embrace these changes for his will and each day gets better. You are a beautiful writer and have an amazing way with words u know that touch each of us following this. Thank you for saying yes to God and use you in so many lives. Such a confirmation and hope!
I am going to prayerfully consider quitting my pt retail job. This has been on my heart for quite some time. I’ve been with the company for 17 years (both FT and PT)!! I’m bored and I think it’s just a habit, and fear of living without that extra bit of money. I think God has something else He wants me to do, but I don’t know what that is yet. Quitting will give me more time to focus on my struggling marriage and exercise. Time for things on my priority list. I will have to trust God for the rest!
I am in!
Wow, lots of comments! You are helping so many women, including me. I’m in!
.
The queen of unfinished projects and “multi-tasking” is ready to let the Lord change her! Thanks for the encouragement
Still working on creating my responsibility list, but already starting to pray & think about what needs to be edited to make room for more important things.
I am in… at least I think I am
I am not always even able to understand the directions on how to post so…. you can only imagine what my brain is trying to handle!
I’m in! Thanks Karen!
I’m in!
I am in! I can’t thank you enough for this series.
I’m in!
My husband and I are trying to decide what is best for our future. This could mean leaving behind a church family that we love and all the ministries that I’m just not sure I’m ready to relinquish control of. I love the suggestion of looking at things from God’s perspective instead of my perspective. Maybe He has something bigger and better in store for us once I let go of some of my responsibilities! Maybe it’s time for a new adventure for us and for the ones that will take our place.
WOW!!! I am in. Thank you for sharing the concept that for every yes there is a no!
I believe most of my clutter comes from putting my fingers and mind where it doesn’t belong, thinking I can assist God in matters. I tend to be hands on in a lot of my friends’ situations, which I am learning to stand back and let God be God. I am not the Savior
So, my action plan is to learn to pray more on their behalf and eliminate the responsibility of always physically helping. That will make available a lot more time in my day!
I have your book and it is amazing! It’s very hard to put down but I have to say “no” in order to get some sleep each night
Thank you so much for your help.
I don’t have to do it all!! Thank you for reminding us of this and telling us it’s okay!
I’m in….this is really helping me think about my clutter so I can’t wait to see where it is going to lead me!
This is such a timely challenge for me, and today’s post is spot on. I am definitely someone who generally says YES when I should say NO but with the new year, I could really feel God calling me to re-prioritize, including many of the things that Glynnis included in her list at the beginning of this post (date night, losing weight, etc.). Well, the good news is that two days ago someone asked me to do something that I really wanted to do but knew that I just didn’t have the time to coordinate. Although it felt kind of hard to say it initially, I did say NO. It was such a freeing thing to do and the person to whom I said it was incredibly gracious and understanding. In fact, she agreed that I was saying NO for all the right reasons and I’m sure will be praying for my success in the areas in which I need to say YES. What a blessing!
God taught me this very hard lesson in 2010. I had to resign from “good things” to focus more on my family. I thought I could do everything because they were all good things and really I was just tired.
You are a smart woman!
I’m in! I am in SERIOUS trouble. My home is out of control and my husband has had it with my “stuff”. I Desperately NEED HELP!!!!! Thank you.
Praying for you Deb!
I’m in!
I’m in and I already gave up being team mom for soccer. I don’t sign up for room duties in school anymore. I work 2 part time jobs and run the house full time. I am also giving up some of the chores around the house. I do way too many for the people who live here!
Thank you! Keep helping us!
I am going to say no to watching extra T.V. shows. I tend to use them to get forget about everything else I need to do. This is going to be a good challenge for me, but I hope I learn a lot from it.
Thanks for doing this for us.
Tried to leave a comment yesterday and messed myself up and lost it. Since that was at the start of day and I wasn’t frazzled yet, I’m just going to say “I’m in!” and be done today.
I am glad to be doing this with several friends and to have their prayers for me and my prayers for them as we look at our lists.
On a lighter note, my husband looked over my list and reminded me that “take out the trash” wasn’t on my list when I mentioned it seemed like I had everything on my list. Funny guy!
I’m in because you have described my life exactly! So looking forward to making some lasting changes.
I’m going to watch less tv so that I have more time for my responsiblities!
This is really making me think about what’s important and what’s not. Thanks for the tips. Eventually, I will be organized again.
Worked for 3 1/2 years from home for a family business so I could be home with my children. As my work load increased and the boundaries blurred with my job, God showed me that while I was working from home…I wasn’t available for my husband, my children, myself or Him. I resigned from my job in June & have been working on decluttering my life for the last few months. Very thankful for this study so that I can be more organized in my efforts. Thank you!! I’m in!
I’m in! These thoughts and ideas you’ve shared are facinating! I pray that I can adopt these principles, ideas, thoughts, etc. and “declutter” my life. I have a problem with saying no (especially to all those “little” things). I hope, with Jesus’ help, that I can clearly see the real priorities and those I should let go of!
Thanks for your challenges and I’m willing to do my best. I am still trying to accept the death of my husband 3 years ago but many emotional hurddles keep me from picking up the pieces and going forward. Reading your passages, has let me see that my mind and heart need to be decluttered before I can attempt the physical tasks I keep avoiding. (his belongings, paperwork, etc). With the strenght of GOD and the inspiration you give in your writing, maybe I will see completion to my TO DO List.
Thanks!
Thank you for all the wonderful info you provide…I am in!
I am having a hard time finding anything to cross off of my list!
Praying God will show me what He wants me to focus on this year.
I’m in!! Day 5 and I have a feeling it’s going to take more than 15 days! I’m still trying to make my list. Not because I have that much “stuff”, rather I am having difficulty with motivation….although the desire is present. I am in the process of moving into my brother-in-laws home (he passed away 12/23) to take care of my Mother-in-law who suffers from dementia. This is a new path for bothy husband and myself, one that will require decluttering my life to move forward with this new one.
Thank you for this great challenge. I am in. In reading many of these comments I realized I have forgotten the little things on my big list to do. I think I can say no to a lot of them. Thank you again.
I am so in!!! Very nervous, but jumping in with both feet! Thank you.
First of all, I am so inspired by this blog by Glynnis. This is my first time following and it is amazing to follow. I am getting rid of the control that I feel I need to be there for every family member, friend, or person that is struggling. I need to talk to God each morning to ask Him first, who He wants me to be there for and second, ask Him to bring that person in my life today. That way I am truly serving Him and I am not getting in the way of another person fulfilling who God wants them to be there for.
What a great challenge about not filling your life with only good things, but instead having that abundant life that Jesus talked about, a life that’s full of (and focused on) the best things! Thanks so much for the thoughts and for the giveaway, as well!
I’m so in!
IT’S GOING TO BE A ROUGH ONE, BUT….I’M IN
You can do it Andrea!!!
Today I backed out of hosting a clothing trunk show. I honestly do not have the time or money for it right now, and it was causing me some anxiety. I just have got to say no to some things. I am really enjoying your book – started this week and on page 53. Lots of great “a-ha’s” for me.
Wow! What a wake-up call to a weary soul! I find it SO hard to say “no” when I am asked to do something, even if it’s something I don’t feel called to do. I feel like I will be letting so many people down with every negative answer. I need to realize that in saying “yes” that I am letting God down because that’s less time I have for His goals for my life. I will be praying fervently this weekend and working toward a more clear idea of what my priorities should be according to His will. Thank you!
I’m in, and blissfully in edit mode!!!
I explained to my husband what I was doing and his response was “Oh, a honey do list for the house!” So the first things I am marking off are the things I can’t do myself and things I can’t afford. Thanks for all the help! Loving the challenge
I haven’t taken any physical steps forward to declutter my life this week, but in reading your posts, I have begun to see that the worst physical clutter in my life isn’t the most painful in my life, it’s the emotional clutter I was unaware of. So, right now I am thankful for this new awareness and will be praying for God’s guidance as I go forward. Sometimes it doesn’t seem like anything I do really matters, so I make a choice to not do it.
THANKS SO MUCH FOR ALL THE ENCOURAGEMENT!! EXCITED TO SEE WHAT THE REST OF THE CHALLENGE LOOKS LIKE:)
Okay, the bullseye on my forehead was your target. More importantly, the point pierced my resistant heart to hear the truth about my chaotic expectations. They have literally left me physically ill. No more! With the everpresent help and grace of God I am unchained from self imposed bondage.
Glynnis–Every time I open the email from you is a reinforcement of something God has tried to lead me to over and over. I surely am one of His straying sheep! But this time these healing and peace giving truths seem to be taking stronger lodgement! I am most definately IN! I will be saying NO to some worthwhile but not NOW community involvement.
I’m in, definitely !! : )
I am excited about this challange!
THANK YOU!
“The Complete Guide to Getting and Staying Organized,” plus a $10 gift card to Target. I’m in I need all the help I can get and I would love to place this book in a alphabetical place in my books liabrary.
I am learning (all be it the hard way)…that NO is not a dirty word. I have always been one to say yes when I probably should say no and then my family suffers. I have been praying for a long time for God to lead me in HIS direction…not my direction. God will be my guide. This study is really helping me to see that I can say NO and reduce clutter all at the same time. May each of you have a blessed evening!
Smiles and Blessings Abound,
Robin
I’m in! Thanks for the challenge! I’m so embarrassed to say that already this new year has not been good for me and I hope through prayer and decluttering my life, I’m hoping to get through it. I need to take it one it one day at a time. Thanks again for the challenge!
I’m ALL in! So thankful to have come across this website through a friend’s Facebook posting and looking forward to completing the challenge! Thank you!
I’m SO thankful you have this series!!!
I’m a single mom of a 3 year old beautiful girl and I am currently starting my own business, so this is PERFECT timing to be going through these steps with you to get my life in order in every area of my life to help propel me into what I know God is calling me to do.
THANK YOU FROM THE DEPTHS OF MY HEART!!! I truly appreciate your help!
~Cassie Librizzi
Cassie
I have been where you are; you will have a special place in my prayers. Please let me know how I can pray and what kind of business you are starting. In His Grace Cindy Roach
The timing of this post is scary perfect as I am needing not only to de-clutter my life mentally and physically, but also to discern God’s plan for me for both near-term and long-term future! Thanks for this!
I love this way of thinking of my “to do” list! I am definitely in!
I am in, but having trouble deciding what to eliminate.
Still praying
Stacy
I have been volunteering for two annual events — one for 14 years (at my Church) and one for 7 years (a fundraiser for blood cancer cures). Both require a significant amount of time and while rewarding, I want to exit from my commitment so I can be free to do something else. I’ve been agonizing over whether it’s okay to stop doing something that’s needed and so worthwhile just because it’s too much for me. I feel much more comfortable saying “no” after reading today’s words of wisdom about editing our responsibilities. Thank you so very much.
I’m in! I also have things that just seem like I MUST do them….and well if I Don’t who will???
Hi all, I am hoping to get some clarification about our list. Over the last few days, I have written down the current to-do’s in my life — register son for sports, buy blinds for guest room, send thank-you note for gift, etc. However, as I was reading Glynnis’ post today, I was wondering if the list also covers the on-going roles/responsibilities that I have. For example, household projects (decorating, repairs, purchases, maintenance), technology (setting up and trouble-shooting DVRs, computers, printers, routers, Wii, cable TV, cameras. cell phones etc), kids’ sports (registration, paperwork, uniforms, equipment, transportation), education (communicate with teachers, oversee homework, purchase project supplies, help with projects, help study for tests, transportation, school lunches, clothes, paperwork), Finances (Bill-paying, bank account balancing, filing paperwork, keeping track of receipts, renewing annual subscriptions/contracts, changing service providers to save money), and the list goes on and on. How do you all see the “to-do list” – specific tasks vs. general roles/responsibilities? Thanks in advance for your insights, thoughts and ideas!
LOL!!!! Just read your post…Thanks a lot now I have to add to my own list because I found some I missed on yours… At least you got it out of your mind and into a safe place….You should feel better!!!LOL!!! I think this is what she meant to get everything out of your mind so its not so cluttered with all those to do’s.. now with the list you prayerfully prioritize what is most important and say no to somethings… I think that is the hard part.. Your post made me laugh because it reminded me of my own list..Take care and God Bless you with all that you got going on.
How I do it is this way: I put specific tasks on my “to do” list, but on-going responsibilities I divvy up over the days of a week as part of a routine. So, Sunday evenings can be prepare Bible study lesson for Monday; Wednesday mornings can be “make grocery list & shop”, etc… These are part of my weekly routine and pre-scheduled in. Hope that helps.
I’m in. Thanks for the clutter-free advice. My list of stuff that needs doing is already three packed line by line pages. what to do and where to start!?!
KIm
I’m in. And thanks
already overwhelmed
I’m in. I’m not saying that because I’m short on time because it seems like I’m always short on time, but this one is a hard one for me which is probably why I need it. I’m praying about going back to school and stopping work while I do because it is usually work that gets in the way of living my life and doing the things I want to do, but I want to do the things God wants me to do. I’m glad this is Friday, and I have all weekend to work on this : )
“I’m in!” – goals of decluttering, staying more organized, need to stay focused
You’re tips, suggestion and leadership are very applicable and encouraging
I’m so very in! God has been working on me in this area of “de-cluttering” my mind and life. Before the challenge started my husband talked me into saying no to some volunteer opportunities that I was more than happy to take over. Although at the time I was angry with him, I am so thankful for his insight as I’m already struggling to keep my head above water home-schooling our wonderful children ages 5, 7, and 8. I don’t want them to learn my cluttering habits. I also want to teach our children to be responsible of their own things and duties rather than my doing it for them because it’s just easier that way (less drama and arguing) and I get it done the way I want it but am left tired, frustrated and not doing anything well. The timing of this challenge could not have been more God- sent! Thank you!
I’m in! And, I think I will try to cut out at least one hour a day of being on the computer!
I am renewing my youthful vigor and excitement for Christ and my living my life for Him and His plan for me. I want to be the best grandma, mother ,friend , sister that He would have me be.
Enjoyed this post. I have been praying, thinking, processing through narrowing my focus to only what God has really called me to for a year now. I am not as far along as I would like to be but at least I have begun to more quickly evaluate my choices based on where I know God has called me to be rather than saying ‘yes’ to everything.
I’m in. Thanks for doing this! It’s so easy to gather things, but so hard to get rid of it!
I’m hoping to cut down on TV and Facebook to make more time to get my house in order.
What I have a hard time is I get so emotionally tied to things and get bogged down going over each item. They bring so many memories!
I’m in! Trying to declutter, organize and cut down on outside committments.
Thank you so much for this challenge. I feel like you have been a fly on my wall when it comes to my feelings. I feel so blessed to have found this and look forward to more challenges!
I’m in. This is great and an answer to prayer!
I am thinking that maybe I am the one woman reading this who will actually have a completed list already. Yup, I think everything I wrote on my original list is going to stay on my list. Well, that is my first reaction. Now I need to be quiet, listen to what the Lord has to say to me and revise my list!
This is such a problem area for me… I have a tendency to always say “yes”… I am definitely going to work toward the “no” for every “yes”… my family and I deserve that… Thank you for this challenge…
I’m not sure I have responsibilities I can eliminate, but I bet there’s some ‘puter time I could cut out…
This is a long list…but I am truly in!!
A lot of praying to be done this weekend!
I’m in!
Even though a lot of people have already commented, I’m in! I am definitely needing to prioritize my time & schedule.
Thanks for all the guidance you have provided this week!
Wow! I’m in, scared but exctied
I’m in. I would like to say no to most of my list, but I know that isn’t what God wants, so I will plug along and hopefully get it all done.
I’ve done a bit of decluttering of the schedule already. I had volunteeritis and felt that as a stay at home I needed to do my bit – well I was doing more than my bit and running my daughter (who’s only 3) all over town and I was never home. It felt like we were living in a student flat!
I’ve put Elise in the preschool at the end of our street (walking her there) and dropped one organisation completely so I can concentrate on the mainly music ministry I run at our church…
I’m in. I really wanted to read everyone’s comments, but I have realized that I’m spending too much time on “being in the know”, so I’m going to refrain from spending my time -reading about what others are doing and just do it.
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I am in!
I think I can incorporate the kids in more of the household chores and that will help free up more time. I do need to remember not to be critical if it is not the way I would do it or go behind them and do it over.
I’m in!
I’m in! And so excited to get some control back into my days and to stop feeling overwhelmed and helpless!
I’m in….but this day’s email really hit home. I always have a list…but seldom stop doing anything else…and I am a doer. I have plans for almost every evening of the week and weekend….so how am I to find time to declutter…and there is something I probably need to give up at church…but doing so to me seems failure. I haven’t been doing a very good at it because I haven’t taken the time and I don’t want to give it back in poor shape…
Shelly– It is never failure to follow God’s voice.
I am in. I will be praying for Gods answers
I’m in!! Thank you!
I have been praying for this ! I so need to learn to say “no” instead of jumping in with 2 feet and then thinking “well did you forget that James said to tame your tongue” in my case keep your mouth closed!
I’m In. Wow! Today hit home with me too. I’m always saying yes, even if sometimes I want to say no. Everything seems like such a good cause and so worth while and… after all if I say no who in the world is going to do it? This is great and part of this years start over plan was to learn to say no and quit packing my schedule! This is great and very timely.
It’s been a challenge, but I’m getting better at saying no. I LOVE the “one in, one out” rule. I’ve heard of doing this with your clothes and other belongings, but not with your to-do list. Thanks for sharing this. I’m really enjoying these posts.
I am “SO” in! How did you know exactly how I’ve been feeling?
I’m in…I really need some help with getting my house and life in order.
I’m in! And motivated to seek God’s priorities instead of my own.
I’m in!
I am thankful for this, so encouraging with making even small steps…. in fact had started “purging” last 2 months.. and getting better at letting go of stuff… this new season of my life.. single mom, after caring for my Dad who passed away last August, and my daughter now employed and on her own.. God now saying “time to care for me”.. very timely and appreciative of journeying with everyone else.. I know God will be pleased and honoured by all we will do..
I’m in!
I work outside the home and want to share a FREE book that my colleagues shared with me. It’s titled “The One Minute To-Do List” by Michael Linenberger. It’s a quick read and can be put to use right away. Here’s the link: http://michaellinenberger.com/free1MTD.htm
I talked to so many women who were hurting this week because they were overwhelmed and overscheduled. We all need to take time to lay aside some weight and those things that take us away from living intentionally.
I have been disorganized and overwhelmed for over a year or more now. We have had a very full two years full of loss and it has been more than overwhelming. I have been praying for God to give me encouragement that I can handle. I am so thankful for you, Glynnis and your gentle encouragement as well as guidance for change. God is good, all the time. I too, like many of the women who have already commented, believe that God wants me to take care of me right now. Thank you for welcoming us all on this journey with you.
I have a small retail embroidery, gift store and I have ADD really bad which makes it really hard for me to stay on task. I am so thankful for these Great ways to help me be a better person. My prayer is that I will watch less TV (my husband loves it) and be more focused.
I would love to win!!!
Blessings,
Lori
I’m in!!! I want to be free to be the best grandmother, mother, friend, sister God has planned for me.
I’m in too!!! The saying no part is hard, but your advice is absolutely on target! A great friend, who has been a spiritual mother to me, told me when asked to do something never say yes immediately. Let the person know you need to pray over it and then get back to them. It definitely helps bring God into prioritizing my life and reminds me that I always need to consult God first and see if it is His Will for me! Thank you for this wonderful study! Definitely something I need since my home is overwhelmed with clutter and 3 young kids.
thank you for your words! I feel like your experiences are speaking directly to me. I am really good at making the list and prepping to be organized, but my follow through stinks! I then beat myself up for once again failing at my “oh so organized..this time it will work” plan. UGH! Love the information you are sharing. The clutter is taking over my work space,my home, and my mind. I don’t know where to start and feel somewhat guilty for taking time to reply to this post. So many other things to do…I hear God telling me to rest and I keep saying yes to so much. This makes me unable to breathe! Praying for wisdom and guidance. I so want to be the wife, mother, friend, professional, that God wants me to be…thank you for your ministry!
I so need every every bit of this. I have wanted to read your book, I have been dealing with Graves eye disease. So I see double. I can only read large print. Please get your book on Barnes and Noble e-books so I can read it on my Nook. Thanks
God has given me a passion for music! So that is one of my priorities:) Yay! Thanks for all you do.
I’m in too! & I absolutely LOVE the ‘Not-To-Do-List’
I can relate to things taking longer than I expect and that I think I have more time to complete something that I do. Lord, please help me to realize what I can do and what I should remove.
My priority now is to keep re-writing that first chapter in my book. I feel the Lord has given me a direction and need to improve on dialogue of main character and point of view. I was able to also declutter some of my shoes and two pair are in the give-away pile. Help, I need to read your book as well!
I’m In, all the way!
I’m in.
I’m in. I have become too good at saying no. No to cleaning, no to laundry, no to things I need to do. I need some self-control. Don’t know where to start.
I am in. I overwhelm myself because I don’t feel I should say no to anything. And then I am stressed out because I can’t do the things I needed to do before I said yes.
YES! I am in! I have eliminated things from our family’s schedule & said no to a lot already in the last 6 months & still I find myself not foucsed on what is really important. I feel like I have lived a life of “planning” instead of actually “living”. I feel like I am “trying” but maybe I’m not? I waste a lot of time being overwhelmed with where to start & do what is absolutely necessary. I dont think is is a coincidence all of us are feeling the same way. I believe God is calling many women to have HIS priorties…1st God, 2nd Our Husband & 3rd our children, 4th then eveything else. (I have been taught that through our Apples of Gold group) this has helped me prioritize…even possibly letting go of a “life-changing Beth moore Bible study” b/c it takes me away from my family in a lot of ways…still prayng about this one (been a tough decision for me). So although we do a lot less than other families I know, we are still strugglng with family oneness & focusing on God.
So thankful for everyone sharing. It has helped me feel no alone. I am amazed at how almost 800 people feel almost the same as I do. Where are you? I wish you all lived closer, I want a hug & to meet up with women who understand this!
Glynnis, thank you so much for reminding us that we must say no to something when we say yes to something. This was VERY powerful for me! WOW! I know I’ve had to heard this before but it has impacted me SO much right now! Like tonight I said “yes” to playing with my 5 yr old & I said no to housework & busy work around house (didnt realize it til now)! I praise God I feel so free to finally have played with my little girl! Thank you for these simple yet powerful tips!
Love, Belinda in Baltimore, MD
Well said, Belinda!!! You are really taking this to heart and seeking God. LOVE it!
I’m definitely in! I need some mental clearing out. So excited what the Lord has in store!
I am in! I have become so “brain cluttered” that it seems like from the moment I wake up until the moment I go to sleep, I am totally frustrated. My planner is beyond full and it is full of things that I once enjoyed but don’t anymore. I have really enjoyed all of the great tips from the days so far. The enemy is really battling me in this area of my life.
So I am there sister!
Glad I found you on Karen’s blog! Now I have to go read what I missed! Oh, and I’m in.
This topic was right on point , i really need to do some organizing & tossing out things that have me weighed down by unneccessary demand of my time, energy& stay focused on what matters the most= my family & most importantly what God wants of me , not people telling me what they want of me ……Thank you so much
I’m in. My husband often has to take me to task for taking on more than I can handle and running myself down. Thanks for this series. I can really relate!
I am in.
I am in!
I am SO “in” and I’ve ALREADY given a “no” to TWO things I SO wanted to say “yes” to…….I guess I’m on my way!
I find this very interesting: should following this clutter blog be a “no” since I didn’t give something else up to do it?
I AM IN!!! I’m DEFINITELY IN!!!
I’m in!
I had been struggling for several years with a decision on giving an activity that I had been doing for almost 15 years. I loved doing the activity even though it was causing me schedule and mental stress. Last year I had shoulder surgery and the recovery period took me away from this activity. During that absence I decided it was finally time to give it up. It was a difficult decision to make but it was the right one. It definitely eased the stress that I was feeling. So much so that it gave me the courage to give up two other activities as well. I am enjoying the extra time to spend with friends or do nothing at all. It also opened up time to join a Bible Study which has blessed me greatly. God had to work on me for a couple of years but I finally listened and lightened my load…..now on to clearing out the physical clutter!
There are so many opportunities and you want to do all of them! I do know though that in the end I will only end up frustrated! This year I became very selective. I too am learning that you have to add up the time that goes with each activity including transportation and preparation. Those hidden time factors when ignored can also cause frustration.
I’m in! Might take me a while to get my list complete. Will be looking for things to say no to.
I find that my to-do list at work is so long that it spills over to my time at home. Then my home to-do list spills over to work time. I often feel resentful because of it and don’t feel successful either place. I am going to get work clutter under control because I think things at home will then fall into place. If they don’t, I will have to tools to make it happen.
I’m in!
I have been so excited to be a part of this challenge. It is amazing how simple it really is when you put it into perspective. Thankyou!
I’m in!
I’m in! It’s hard for this “people pleaser” to say no, but with a 5 month old, a full time job, and a husband and home to take care of, I have GOT to become more familiar with the word! Such a simple concept but difficult to practice! I’m going to work on it!
I’m in! And pray God will guide me in decluttering my mind~
The hardest thing for me is letting go of things that seem good on the surface, but might not be what God wants me to be doing at this time in my life. I’m looking forward to discovering what His will is for me!
Thanks for the challenge! I’m in!
I’m in! I gave up a job/business that took up so much time that there was no time for family, rest, or God! Insane! Now I have peace, a clean house, and time for great Bible Studies and a personal relationship with my Lord. Thanks for your encouragement.
Most times, NO is not in my vocabulary….However, I know it is a necessary & beneficial choice…thanks for the reminder…I’m in!!!!
I’m in!
In order to be obedient, I must say, “I’m In!” The Lord has been waiting for me to comply with this request for about a year now. Ok, I have taken a deep breath…and I am ready!
Yay!!!
I’m In. There is much to work on, but I loved the simplicity in for every yes, there must be a no. I’ve never thought of that before….but it makes such good sense.
I’m in!
Hi, Glynnis,
Wow–what a week! I have been really challenged, but I also know I need this in my life right now. I’ll go ahead and share what is happening–I am a teach-at-home mom of three, two teenagers and a ten year old. I am a homeschool association director, and a Coop teacher. This past year, the Lord led me to write a devotional book, and it just published 8 weeks ago! I am so excited, but I am nervous about juggling all the responsibilities of wife, mom and teacher, and now author, who also wants to minister to those who read the book. Thank you for helping me to simplify and focus so that my priorities are in line with the Lord’s will. I am looking forward to Monday’s session! Thanks again!
This is shaping up to be the most unique decluttering challenge I have ever seen. I feel blessed to have found it and am looking forward to the changes to come. Thank you Glynnis!
I’m in also!!! I absolutely love that you have started with decluttering my mind. I have become very forgetful lately & now know why. I am carrying my list everywhere & constantly add to it as things pop in my mind. I’ve even already crossed a few things off my list!!!
Thank you do much for these first 5 days, my mind has definitely been challenged, and I’m ready for a change! Today, I especially love the questions to ask myself to specifically identify whether a task is God’s priority for me. Those questions will definitely be making my journal to reflect back on! Looking forward to the next 10 days!
Have a great weekend!
Jenny
I’m in. I have been desiring to get myself organized for years. My heart’s desire and intimate conversations with God has been that 2012 is the year. Thank you for your help. I look forward to releasing this paralyzing disorganization. God bless you.
I Love those questions and will be using them. I also liked thinking about what “only I” can do. Thanks. I am in.
I’m in!
I am in!!!
I am SO in!
I’m in for sure! I going to take off cleaning my house everyday and replace it with something more productive and permeant.
I have spent the last 15 years chasing a career and education simultaneously and although in all honesty I have enjoyed the recognition and worldly praise of a job well done I finally realized I have neglected or missed out on other parts of life and priorities…I took a demotion this year and a pay cut intentionally and although it has been difficult to adjust to it has been worth the reward of being obedient to God’s priorities for my life…I told my husband if I hinted about taking any more classes or applying for any further promotions to hand me my bible and tell me to study and work on my knowledge of his word…I am on board…thanks a bunch for encouragement and God bless you all
Thank you for your encouraging words each day!
Praying this weekend about this.
thank you for helping refocus and declutter our lives
It is late where I am, but I am going to use this weekend and am committed to praying, really praying about what I need to give up and what God is calling me to take on, not what I want. Thank you for this challenge and your book, it is doing so much more for me than de-cluttering my home!
I’m in, God is speaking to my heart about clutter.
I am listening. Thanks for the help.
Sooo. In!
I sooooo needed to read this today. I am inspired by this challenge and believe decluttering will really help me to fully focus on my REAL priorities!
It is editing day! I’m in!
As a mother of three teenagers I thought that I was pretty much organized and clutter free.
Reading every day and sign in for clutter free this new year I can tell you that every day is a new way to be free in body mind and spirit! Muchas gracias hermana linda!
I am so in!!
This has been such an eye opener for me and i LOVE the yes and no list!! It is sooo true, how esp for me i keep “adding” to my list and have alot of “to do’s” which are 1/2 started and never finished and then start another and so on and so on. So thank you soooooo much for leading this for us, God Bless and again Thank you!! Kolleen
I’m in…trying to learn to say yes to the right things and no to the right things.
I’m in and I am NOT going to feel guilty saying no.
!
I’m in…I want to unclutter my life!
I’m definitely tuned in! My top New Year’s resolution was “Simpify”. De-clutter is my manta these days and you have already provided sensible “doable” steps to achieve my goals. Still working on my master list (you probably guessed that). Hope I edit it to a much more managable monster.
I left my job toward the end of last year to refocus my energy on things that matter; my job had become very demanding, and I couldn’t manage to keep clean clothes on my hubby and kids. My “to do” list would have been several pages long.
Now, though, I really don’t have a ton of obligations, but I’m still running out of hours in the day. I’ve signed up for several Christian blogs I love to read (there are so many great ones!) and online Bible studies; I’m working to read my Bible through this year, too, while reading companion book along with it for the history and culture behind what I’m reading. I’m also reading a Christian book I’ve been longing to read, and I have several more books lined up that I’ve been wanting to read also. (“I Used to Be So Organized” is one of them!)
Now, I’m feel I’m spending too much time reading on the computer or with my nose in a book, when the laundry is piling up and the house is a mess! How can I say “no” to things that are meant to grow my relationship with God? I’m just so hungry for Him, and every blog, devotion and book I’m reading is so good and God-inspired; I feel guilty hitting “unsubscribe.”
I’m in. Just getting my list started has helped me feel much less out of control. Thanks for being such a blessing from God, Glynnis!
i’m in! first thought without looking at the full list is to give up one of my volunteer positions. that i’m not really positioning anyway
I need to edit all the emails I receive, there are so many good blogs and devotionals out there and I would love to read them all. But don’t worry I won’t edit yours or Karen’s out they are excellent! God Bless!
It’s so good to know I’m not alone in this! My favorite part in today’s post was when Glynnis wrote how she attributed her lack of goal-meeting to not working smart enough or a lack of self-discipline. Funny how those are thoughts that flood my mind much too often. Again… it’s so good to know I’m not alone in this!
I’m in!! I’ll try to “Let go and Let God!” Thank you Glynnis & Karen!
I have always understood decluttering by throwing out an old shirt when you buy a new one. I never thought of applying the principle to my schedule. It really makes me think about the new tasks I accept if I have to commit to giving up something I’m already doing. Please pray for tests I am having on Monday related to a breast lump I have found. Anxiously trusting in His goodness. Looking forward to a decluttered 2012.
I’m in! By God’s grace, I will have a simpler, deeper walk with Him by the end of 2012.
When I read, “You might not leave yourself enough room in a certain category and then you’ll be frustrated” in Day 3, I laughed out loud because I could absolutely relate to that. But, I have my list and it is not in any kind of order. I’m in and looking forward to finally getting back on track – if I ever was! It amazes me how much I can relate to what you are writing and to all of these other ladies too! Thank you so much!
All I can say is “oh wow”. I’m in.
I’m in. Thank you for your commitment.
I’m in! Thanks!
I’m in. Thanks for the post. Helping me to realize/remember, that if I want to add some things that really must be added (like more sleep, more exercise, more Bible time), then I need to give up some things, like my Internet news addiction that just sucks so much time from my life.
I’m in. This is the year of decluttering and I’m so thankful for you!! May the Lord continue to bless you with great wisdom as you share with us. Thank you!! : )
The word “comments” only appears in your blog, not the e-mails I recieve in my inbox.
Please sign me up for the contest.
I could check my e-mail less often.
Hi Tricia – Thank you for this note. I’ll add some clarification on the next giveaway. Blessings, Glynnis
I am in! Going to take a good hard look at my schedule this weekend!
I’m in!!
I’m in…I’ve even started the delegating process so this is great encouragement.
I’m in!
I’m in!!
I so want to know the difference between the good and God’s best. Lord, grant me wisdom.
I’m in! Although I am struggling to find the time to keep with your daily recommendations, I am thankful I will be able to find the links later since I am going at a slower pace. But my motto is, “any progress made, is still progress” even if it’s not as fast as I would like.
“I’m in!” I love this time of year and the opportunity to “start anew.” Thank you for providing useful tools to help us reach our goals.
I’m trying to do what God feels I need for this time in my life. Pray for me.
I’m IN! I am going to release myself from shouldering all the burden, lading myself with guilt. I will remove some of my responsibilities by asking for help. I do not have to do everything for my family, it is ok to ask and receive help from them in a house we all live in. Doing so will ease my stress as well as teach them balance in their own lives. I pray for patience, forgiveness and acceptance in appreciating their help, though it might not be “my” way, it is help and for that I should and WILL be grateful.
This is the encouragement I needed. I was thankful to read you feel our struggle is spiritual, I have felt this for awhile, but been brushing it aside. I am praying now for deliverance from this nonsense of hanging onto things, and instead gain the ability to enjoy those around me instead of constantly trying to keep the CLUTTER in order.
Well, it technically isn’t day 5 anymore,
but I finally read the blog today!
even if I cant be entered in the drawing, I just wanted to say I truly appreciative this challenge so far… even the one for today that will really test me. I am so feeling overwhelmed, convicted, and challenged all at the seam time. Praying for hope, and encouragement thru it all. for myself and all of you who share the challenge.
This is definitely an overwhelming decision….to say no…. I’ve always been told that if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself….. And now I have to leave something that I do to someone else. May be the toughest part of this whole program!
Love the notion of removing atask before adding one!!!
I’m in…I think one of the things I want to cut out (or down on) is time on Facebook.
Sometimes it’s the only way I can feel connected to “grown-ups” or our larger church body…but I know it eats up way too much of my time. Thanks for the challenges you have been presenting….LOVED dumping my brain out in a notebook the other day. I am already feeling better. Thank you for your kindness.
It’s good to know we are not alone. Over the last 18 months I have had to say no to lots of things and have found myself relying on God and others and thinking more for what I need than always giving out to others which I have done for years. As we came to terms with our daughter being diagnosed with Anorexia. It is always easier to give than to receive. Slowly I am now getting stronger and I know the best way to de cluttering one’s life is to seek God first in wisdom and strength.
Bless you as you put your daughter’s health as a priority. God will indeed give you wisdom & strength!
I’m in! I really need to learn how to organize my time. It is one of the things I’ve been praying about, so this is no coincidence. Thank-you
I am in!! Hoping for success.
I’m in !
How about giving up cleaning the bathrooms? Just kidding! Seriously, giving up “supervisioring” my hubby when he helps with cleaning. We’ve been married over 33 yrs and share responsibilities with the house. Sometimes, we need to give the people we love credit for what they do for us.
I’m in!
I’m looking forward letting God helping me with any clutter in my life,I’m in
I am all the way in!
I am in. Thank you for your words of wisdom and your prayers. God bless you more.
Saying NO to commitments and stuff is so hard. I know I feel pressure to join every group and then participate in everything they do. I am hoping to release myself to find peace in saying No.
Saying NO to commitments and stuff is so hard. I know I feel pressure to join every group and then participate in everything they do. I am hoping to release myself and to find peace in saying No.
I’m in – The questions were very helpful in thinking about what’s really important to hold onto and what can go. Learning to say no is hard but necessary I’m learning.
I’m in!!
WOW! Thank you for the ‘release’ from the guilt of saying ‘NO’!
I am SO in on this challenge!
I’m in! I am excited to be a part of this great challenge!
I’m so overwhelmed right now, please just count me in! You are blessing me-thank you!
This has always been a hard one for me. I have the YES part down but it’s the saying NO that I struggle with everyday. Then I find myself overwhelmed and nothing is being well done so I haven’t really done anyone any favors. Thank you for continuing to encourage us.
Im In.
One day at a time…..I’m in!
For every yes there has to be a no. How freeing is that? Why is it so hard to say no? Is there a difference for single moms? I am striving to find balance this year; trying to find that very fine line between what I am having to do vs what I need to step back and let God do. Does anyone else have this issue? I love this; I am adding to my Master list still, decluttering it is going to take time and prayer more than the weekend. I covet all your prayers as I am a single, partially diabled single mom with two young twenties still at home. Thank You Cindy
Praying for you Cindy. I am not a single mom but my mother was. I am amazed how she ever raised my brother & me alone.:-) Do you have friends to help you with your kids?
I am so grateful that I discovered this de-cluttering challenge! It is so true that the mind needs to be decluttered and edited before one can face physical clutter. Thank you so much for sharing this information with us. Thank you, Lord!
I’m in! I’m desperate for this to work. I thank God for the passion He has given you to help us girlfriends. I pray that He continues to bless you in your ministry and I trust that He will. I can’t thank you enough for making this simple enough for someone like me. I learn best visually and through your writting…..you do that.
Thank you ladies. This is worth my time. Funny how we need to be reminded to say no.
How desperately I needed this!
Blessings!
Julia
I’m in. I have been feeling so unbalanced in the past year. What a great reminder to pray about what we spend our time doing each day. I have to confess I don’t always do that. I don’t remember to consider God’s priorities when setting my own. Then when I get to the end of the day and look at how I used my time, I feel so defeated. There is no since of peace. I don’t feel that I have accomplished anything with true value.
Thank you for the list of questions posted. I plan to print and post them in clear sight. They will certainly help in considering God’s intent for my life. Now to begin de-cluttering my schedule…
I’m in! A little overwhelmed, but in!
Sounds simple, but is going to be hard to do! It is hard to say no. With prayers and His strength, things will change:)
I’m in! I’m also saying no to working till I drop. I will schedule down time for myself!
This tasks seems so overwhelming but I am so in need of it.
Cheryl,
I feel the same way, BUT we can do it WITH God’s help!
I’m in.
Working full time, trying to handle all other tasks, responsibilities, etc., have become overwhelming. I find myself rushing from one task, one pile of stacked-up stuff, etc. to another, but not accomplishing anything! I am so ready to de-clutter. I believe the Lord has directed me to this website. Thank you for this blessing. I am looking forward to it.
Hi Glynnis I just got married on my birthday 12-09-2011 and I am still so happy…… However school has started back and this is my last semester and I am now looking into different schools because God has called me to be a nurse (R.N.) and I am excited about this career and i am being OBEDIENT to this calling (I guess its a calling don’t know?) I definately have to get organized with my life in general I have so much going on right now, but I know God is going too see my husband and I through this trial (spiritually), but right now its just entirely toooo much and I need to get decluttered and I need too start right now. Question? Do I need to purchase the book?
Congratulations on your marriage. I pray the Lord blesses the two of you. And no, you don’t need to buy my book to benefit from these tips.
I’m in…but really having a hard time trying to decide what to cut out of my to do list. Making a “To Not Do” list is much harder than creating the “To Do” list. Praying for God’s wisdom and discernment. Thank you for the questions that you gave us to help us with discerning our priorities. They are very helpful.
I’m in and I hope it’s not too late…It’s Saturday, the 14th and I just read her e-mail. I’m truly over scheduled and overwhelmed and I need all of God’s help and yours too!
Thank you for the challenge. I’m in!
What great thoughts and challenge on prioritizing my responsibilities. Thank you for the great guidelines.
I’m in!!
Wow, this was so totally right-on! I’m in! And yes, it takes me 30 minutes to make a quick stop at the store too… and my husband only 15! Thanks for sharing!
I’m in too!
So last year I attempted (yes, there’s that word ‘I’) to find a replacement for a volunteer position I hold in a professional organization connected to our business and failed to follow through as other things came up through the year and it was just ‘easier’ for me to continue to do the job. This month I will turn in my resignation formally to our Board so that it becomes their responsibility and not mine (which I realize it should be) to find a new volunteer. Thank you for the push to do this – now to write that letter….and continue praying over my lists.
Mary–
You are courageous!
So excited to start this editing process! Thank you! Love, Fran
I just found out about this link on a friend’s facebook page. Thanks for your words of encouragement! I’m looking forward to seeing how God will use this study to help me de-clutter!!!
I just found out about this study on a friend’s Facebook page. It’s just what I need to start the new year. I NEED to de-clutter!!! Thanks!
Each day I feel a little more weight being lifted from my shoulders. I think I am letting God handle things, but the more I pray, read, and meditate; I understand that I am trying to shoulder the heavy burdens. This study is an answer to prayer to help me make sense of the crossroads I am facing in my life at this time. God’s timing is perfect! Thank you for being a vessel of God and allowing Him to channel His wisdom to me through you.
“I’m in!”
I am in too!! I am very excited to go through this process. Thank you for the great info.
What a great task? I am praying over mine all ready!
Thanks for the great daily ways to begin living “Clutter-Free”. I’d love to win the giveaway. Thanks!
I’m in as well. If you notice I am even a day behind. I had to choose to go to work late to ward off a really bad headache and had no internet yesterday. I am getting really excited about suceeding at this life- change. God’s timing is in this for me I can feel it. Thanks for all the great input so far!
I’m in !!!!
Wow, so much to think about. As I refected on my list, I really don’t want to take anything off of the project section of my list, I think I have a problem….I will look forward to the next suggestion, this is definitley what I need, someone to help me view things differently and of course to first and foremost bathe it in prayer. Thanks!
A little late but I am in too. I wish I had read this yesterday…..sure could have used it. I am going to start by not cleaning everyone else’s bathroom. They are now in charge of that area of housework:)
Thanks!
I love how you are helping so many get to the bottom of our organizational issues. What I love most are the encouraging prayers you give us daily. Thanks, Glynnis.
I’m in.
I have gone through your book already once and am truly enjoying the additional thoughts. Thanks for making this happen. And have a great time on your weekend trip!
As for my nugget, I truly liked the NOT to do list…It made me think hard about those things that I don’t want to do but feel compelled to do….now to work on how to get them off of my plate!
Delegation of chores at home is where I need to focus.
Thanks!!
I’m in if it’s not too late. Hopefully I will actually put these suggestions to work in my life. Thanks!
I too am in . . . and glad I’m not alone!
I’m in! This last year have been learning to not say yes so quickly and to also say no. It has been difficult but very worthwhile.
I’m in! This is a great series, very timely.
I’m in!
I’m in! I never thought about the fact that to add something I had to give thought to what I was going to take away. This principle can and should be applied to so many things in our lives. Like, I want that piece of cake or latte… so what will I not have in order not to “pay the price” for adding that to my calorie/ sugar intake. Or, I want that new pair of shoes, so what will I not get in order to not stretch my budget etc. So, in short, this principle is going to help me in more areas than in just my schedule!! Thank you so much for the education!!!
It all starts with how we think before we act!
Lisa
“I’m in.” I’m so excited about this journey. Thanks Karen and Glynnis.
Blessings,
Jodie
I couldn’t believe how long my list of things to do is…two full notebook pages! I can’t wait to see it get whittled down to the most important things.
Hi, I’m Trudy and I’m really trying to declutter my whole life!!!
I’m in.
I too am in this to change the way Im living. I have always had a problem with saying no and stretching myself to thin. It has called many an arguement in my household and I have wanted to get a handle on this behavior but just never could. Im finding that there are more women just like me, who know this behavior is stealing their true calling from where God wants us to be. I am so grateful for this study. Thank you!!!
I’M IN!!! I’m so thankful that the Lord has placed this in my life!
I will no longer spend an immense amount of time at the grocery store feeling pressure to stock up for weeks. I will make organized lists and go once per week.
I am going to stop trying to be everything to everbody. I can’t always make things right for others but I can still be there for them when they need me. Book sounds great, thanks for the chance to win a copy.
Ever heard of a woman with too much time on her hands? It can slow you down as well. Oh, I can do that tomorrow; I have plenty of time. I was most efficient when I was a busy momma with two GS troops, preschool, Sunday School teacher and parent. I need to organize this swath of free time I have now all that is gone!
So true and what I need to do.
So glad that I’m part of this get organized journey.
I so need this
I’m in
I’m in, too! Thanks again for another message that is so timely for me!! (And apparently so many others!)
I’m in! I will say “no” to packing everyone’s lunches. It’s time to delegate!
i’m in! i need to edit everything about my life and will be praying about that. thank you
I’m glad we have the weekend for this assignment!
I’m in! I really need help in this area!!
What an amazing message today! Thank you for sharing this little checklist of questions to make us think twice before we so freely give our few “yes”s.
I’m. Going to work on this.
Count me in too! I’m saving all these emails in a special place…mentally ready to jump in, but wanna do it right, not some half-hearted attempt that ultimately spells failure! I LOVE organization! Let’s go!
I’m resigning from the board for baseball…I cannot carry out my responsibilities because I am simply out of time after I get home from my full time job and carry out family and self care responsibilities.
I’m in, too! Thanks for sharing your wisdom.
I’m in! I think my problem is I am so afraid that myself will catch up with me if I don’t keep every second busy. I don’t want to feel like a failure anymore. I want God and my famly to be proud of me. Thanks!
I’m in. This is a wonderful challenge and will NEED lots of prayer. Being a Pastor’s wife, I feel pulled many different directions and they are all “good.” I suffer from “Super Woman” syndrome and have yet to figure out that I’m a simple, sinful child of God. Please keep this process in your prayers.
Pastor’s wives (I was one for 8 years) are so often overloaded. Good for you scaling back!
I’m in
I’m in.
I am in!
So, I am a little late with a comment, since I just read the blog. But this task is going to be hard for me since I feel as though I am obligated to do everything and sometimes, I have to ask God to show me what I need to remove from my schedule, to have time to do the important tasks. I am praying that God shows me what needs to be removed.
Thanks for your insight
I’m in…..it’s going to be a lot of painful work, but I’m in!!!
This sounds great.
I’m in! homeschooling mom of two a home (on special needs),young adult child maing horrible decisions, part time job, father in law with dementia, two parents that are lonely, etc. looking forward to this
I am in! I need to be willing to say no even when it is totally assumed I will say yes! You are giving me the courage! Who knew saying no was sooo difficult?? Also, going to have a plan for email checking…I think 2x per day, specific times.
Thank you for your encouragement. My oldest daughter moved out this week. The other birds in the nest wanted to have more room. I decided that part of the room would be a “place for me”. I now have a window spot that I will be fixing up for me. Like you said, “I first have to take care of the mother of my children, my husbands wife…aka me.”
I appreciate the prayer of anyone who reads this.
Count me in!
I’m in!
I’m in!
Thank you so much for this challenge! I feel very guilty about what I have to do, what I should be doing and for what I don’t accomplish..
I am often up in the middle of the night with a busy mind and I get angry when my husband is able to nap or watches football while I watch the kids or have to work. Help me, Jesus, I know frustration doesn’t achieve anything, but with your guidance I can do all things..
I’m in!
Good stuff! Thanks so much for your help, Glynnis! I’d love to win a copy of Karen’s book!
I’m in! I’ve been overwhelmed for oh so long. This is the word that I desperately needed.
I’m in…please pray that I will be able to stay committed to this plan…I want organization for my life!
I have been so blessed and we are only 1/3 of the way done. I AM TOTALLY IN!!! I have grown so much mentally and I am committed to decluttering my mind so that it can be reflected in my home.
I am definetly in need of this ! Thank You ..
I am in! I am following your blog from Costa Rica. I certainly to understand God priorities for my life, so I will pray for Wisdom and Peace!
I have realized through this study so far, how much time, intimacy, and energy TV sucks out of my life! This is what I’m going to say “no” to this year, and watch what God does as I refocus my attention on His priorities…
I’m a bit behind, as it’s always seems, UP ‘TIL NOW! I’m in 100%!
I’m so totally in! I love the questions she posed in the beginning about identifying priorities. Sometimes you need someone to just spell it out simply. AWESOME! I’m in!
I’m in! With 3 boys, one only a month old, and my husband recently having surgery I have eliminated all but one activity from my schedule. Any more and it is just too much! The boys’ attitude goes downhill and I get frazzled from a lack of downtime. Great advice!
I’m in! I decided 2012 is the year I will really tackle those things I’ve put off for years. I heard something very helpful a week or two ago. We can really only manage a few things on our To Do list in a day, so each night, go through the list and pick six things that MUST be done or that you will work on the following day. If something doesn’t get finished, it becomes a priority the next day. I really like this idea because it is so easy to look at the overwhelming list and say “I’ll start on it tomorrow.”
I also have to learn those six things have to be manageable, not have “declutter an entire room” as one of the six! Another thing is I am putting these tasks on my google calendar instead of just my google task list that continues to grow and grow!
I really need to declutter my mind as well as my house! Thanks for your great tips!
As a newlywed, recently I’ve felt like I don’t know how to balance being a wife, teaching first graders, leading a children’s ministry at church, and managing a household. My husband and I have had many conversations about how to make my responsibilities less overwhelming, but they always end the same way; with the conclusion that our responsibilities are split equally and that there is no more juggling of tasks to be done. This post helped me realize that the solution is to downsize some things- like my self-created responsibility of couponing for hours a week!
I’m in. Thank you for writing this series. I am in desperate need to have the quiet time and hear God’s voice and direction.
I am working outside the home between 25 and 32 hours. I am a wife, mother, web designer, homemaker, and three-Great Dane owner in the rest of my hours. I mentioned the “titles” associated with me to show what responsibilities are currently mine.
Unfortunately, these are all the responsibilities that I am not performing well at.
My master list is what I am praying about. I loved what Glynnis wrote about focusing. How can I hear God if I fill every minute of my attention? So, I am having a quiet weekend just listening. Everyone is gone today, and it is a unique opportunity.
Thank you, Jesus.
I’m in. Putting into practice what I KNOW God wants me to do and what I’ve become accustomed to do is what will take the time to sort out.
One of my main goal for myself this year was to learn to say no & to start delegating sine of my responsibilities that others are very capable of taking care of. I never thought that adding to meant I had to eliminate done things. Therefore I have overwhelmed myself & my family by spreading myself too thin. Thank you Glynnis for helping my deck utter my life!
Thank you for sharing your insight. I am sure God led me to your sight today with the purpose of showing me that HE is in control. I have looked over several ways to “take control of my life” this week and they have all left me feeling numb and like a failure. I am looking forward to moving in the Spirit in this area of my life.
BTW, the book is availabe today on BN.com
Dear Glynnis ~
Thank you, thank you, thank you~ for years I have thought I could never be organized ~ but I’m trusting in God~ not doubting and desperately seeking quiet time to be able to hear his still small voice… thinking about my priorities and asking God for clarity~ BELIEVING ~ I want to live the life God planned for me ~ I’m not doing well at all on my own!
Praying for all who feel the same~
In Christ,
Bernadette
I think I can, I think I can…toot- toot!
Ellen–
You crack me up!
I’m in! THANK YOU so much for your words of wisdom. My 2012 goal is to “waste less” – which includes money, time, food, and energy on thigs I can’t control, etc. Your blog has me off to a good start.
So here I am, always running behind. I soooo need to get organized. Even in my attempt to do that, I am reading your messages late. Somehow I find time to read my other e-mails and even check facebook. So, I am going to reduce my facebook time – it really isn’t productive. As I look at my list, I really wish I could give up the housework – ha! But to be realistic, I will need to cut out some of my other activities. Thanks for this blog and the encouragement. I like the idea of praying first and weeding out some tasks that are not priorities. God bless!
I’m in!! I never put together taking something out of my schedule before adding something else in, brilliant. I’m looking forward to what next week brings. Thanks Glynnis
).
I’m in! Thanks Glynnis I love the idea of taking something out of my schedule before adding something in, especially for putting priorities in place. Brilliant idea!
I’m in!!!
I found your site today and am excited about working through this challenge. I’ve struggled for years with too many things to do (that are nearly all “good” things), and finding the time/energy to do them all. How to say no? That’s a challenge for me, and being one in leadership in a church, I face the difficulty of the challenges when too many people are saying “no.” I look forward to this, and am going to attempt to find the balance!
I’m in. Thank you for this good reminder.
I’m in. I need to declutter my mind!
I’m in…..
What’s out – I have not honestly figured that out yet. Going to require some time and prayer.
I am so in! Gonna stop freaking out that the house is not spotless all the time
Yes—let’s ALL start a “Freak Out Less” moms club:-)
I’m in!
I am in, and can’t wait to see what you have for us on Monday!!
I had an Aha! moment today. The idea of having to remove something in my schedule in order to add something to my schedule made complete sense. I just can’t keep adding things to my day or week that I want to do. I have to make room for those tasks by removing others. Thank you! This is so freeing for me. I’m not superwoman. I only have so much time in the day. This helps so much. Thank you!
NO to email sounds good
Hanging on to my list and adding to it, but also crossing some items off. Decided that while I watched the football games, there is no reason that I can’t sort through some of the stacks of stuff and pitch what isn’t needed. You can also shred important papers while watching football! Thank you so much for this study. Your book arrived yesterday. Can’t wait to read the whole thing.
Feel like I accomplished a lot this weekend. Filled one complete garbage bag just sorting through stacks of stuff that were sitting around, but still spending time with my husband. Thank you so much for making this all seem possible.
I am in. Thanks for all the organizing strategies.
I am ready to prioritize things I do that may not be necessary or helpful for my family.
I’m in… attempting to spend less time on the computer and more time doing something with my kids.
I spend too much time gathering information and not acting on it – like cutting out recipes, putting them in a recipe box or notebook, but NEVER making them! I am this way with EVERYTHING: frugal tips for , reading articles on time management, organic gardening, etc. but then I never execute it. I’ve blocked some time on my calendar for executing, and I’m removing the time for studying and planning. So far so good this year: I’ve cleaned out a closet, I’ve made a few new recipes, and I actually used a bunch of coupons last week (and have my list and matching coupons in the car for tomorrow’s trip). Did I mention that I work 50 hours a week and have 3 kids?
I am in! I enjoy the thought- “for every yes, there has to be a NO!” Thank you for this!
Wow ladies. It was so good to read your comments. It’s refreshing to read that others struggle too – often I’ve thought that I’m the only one who doesn’t have it together!! I have cut back in my teaching – from 60% to 40%, and I haven’t had regrets. I need to not be such a perfectionist – my husband is willing to help with the laundry, but I’m reluctant to give it up – why??? I wish our sons (especially the younger one) would be more helpful around the house. Arguments arise when we ask him to do something, especially now that I have “so much more time”??? I love my Bible study group, exercise group, and teaching. The cleaning CAN be delegated, but it continues to be SUCH a struggle. Often easier to do it yourself, to avoid conflict.
I am in, too. Thanks to my friend for forwarding your information on Friday, the day I laid in bed, thinking, “I have 3 days to work on decluttering my home. Where should I start?” I received her e-mail and it was such a God-thing, I can’t even express how much I was touched. My heart and mind surrendered to Him. It has been a whirlwind to read through all 5 days this weekend, but it is speaking to me in incredible ways! I need to let go of some things (not sure what it is yet but am sure that He will reveal it to me) and make room for something He is putting on my heart. It takes a huge step of faith for me, but I am confident that He will see me through!
I’m in! I don’t really know what to give up since I’m a stay at home mom . . . but everyday is a struggle. I can’t think straight or find the energy to clean up the clutter here. I have a 4 month old who is not sleeping through the night yet and 2 other children under 4. I’m a mess and so is my house. God help me.
I am evaluating what needs to go from my list of to do’s, so that I can do the best things God has for me to do. Thanks for the prompting.
I’m IN!!! A bit petrified to be honest with you but I am in. I have never felt more convicted about de-cluttering my life by getting rid of “stuff” but have been spinning my wheels. I’d appreciate an extra prayer or two if anyone would, please, to help me stay focused and to know I can do this! Many thanks to you Glynnis, for putting us on your “yes” list! And to Karen for helping out!
I’m in!
I’m in, also. Lots of good ideas to apply! Thanks.
I’m in – just getting started on the study but excited to “free up” my life
I am SO in!
Ok…sigh…I’ll let my husband fix the boys lunches, pick out their clothes, give the, breakfast, nrush their hair, etc., but the laundry…pray for me!
Thank you for the advice. Looking forward to decluttering my life!
I’m in. I’ve already started de-cluttering. Thank you for the encouragement.
I’m in!!! I want to give up the late night computer/phone time–
And affects the next days energy levels…so with that Good night!
I’m in!!! Need to cut out the late night
Phone/computer time…
Maybe the fact that I didn’t get to read this until Monday morning is a big clue that I need this! I’m in!
i was thrilled somehow to learn that it takes you an eternity to do things too. it takes me forever to do things! Like the trip to the store. And yet the Lord has freed you from the overwhelm. . . . . . so encouraging! Thank you!
I’m In! I am going to stop reading ALL the blogs I love everyday and just do a few here and there. Computer time is taking up too much of my time lately.
I am saving the emails during this challenge so I can review them and make sure I do not miss anything. Interestingly my “personal challenge” for this year–I do no like “New Year’s resolutions” was to be more organized and get rid of clutter so I gladly joined your challenge and am working through the steps–it’s amazing how when you face the painful realization of your “clutter” and deal with it it brings freedom–maybe not so visible right away to those around you but inside brings new peace. God only knows with working full time, studying part time and with three children I need all the help I can get to get my priorities in place and be a good daughter of God, wife, mom, student, etc. Thank you for your help!
I just found out that I am going to be adding to my family, so that makes this de-cluttering a complete necessity. My schedule is going to be thrown out the window, and I am pretty terrified about that at this point. But, I know God is faithful, and will help me to take care of all I need to do before this new little person arrives. We have a whole room to empty out, and need to make room in our lower level for the computer items currently in that room. I have been spending about a half hour most days working on a different room in my home, but I do still feel completely overwhelmed, and I don’t feel like I am progressing very quickly, so I get easily discouraged. I don’t honsetly have a lot of extra fluff in my schedule–I work full time, we go to church, I go to the grocery store, and I take my son to gym time and a swimming lesson at the Y. I don’t think my schedule is the problem–I keep feeling like it is just me. I just don’t want to deal with all my junk. I am praying that going through this process will help me get on the right track.
I am 43 years old–trying to teach this old dog new tricks might be difficult!
Please pray for me and my growing family
Carissa in eastern Iowa
I’m in…can’t say what will go yet but trusting God will show me what needs to happen for me to make this much needed change!
I’m in!! Although my passion and business (and hope for an even bigger future business) is baking and decorating cakes and cookies, it takes too much time when I overbook myself with orders. I’m learning i need to limit myself until the kids are older so I can attend to my responsibilities at home.
I am definitely IN! I am a mother of 8 beautiful, wonderful children….trying so hard to keep the clutter at bay! Already I am doing better. Thank you soooo much for doing this! It is a great support to me (and, thus, my family).
Thanks for the chance to win! And for the steps to get organized!
You have captured so much of my life in the last few posts. I have said many of the statements to myself over the years and I usually begin to beat myself up around March when I have not kept up with what I said I would. I bought David Allen’s book also, but I only read through it when I was first excited and never followed through or up on anything that I read. So I feel that the spiritual portion of all of this is what I was lacking in my other attempts. I’m so ready for the the challenge! I feel that God has used my your posts to bring back the things that I said to and about myself to let me know that This is it! for real this time. I cry about my situation, but I’ve yet to cry out to God about it all and what He will have me to do. I don’t think I was spiritually mature enough to handle something like this years ago. I don’t have all the answers but I have grown to learn how to lean on God and connect with him with the help of some of my sisters in Christ. Lysa, Glynnis and Karen being a few of them now.
Thank you so much for these encouragements!
I’m in!
There are so many things I want to do in my house, but I am feeling overwhelmed how to get it all done. Thank you for the encouragement of making a list based on what GOD wants me to do….it’s about HIM, not me, right?
I am very overwhelmed with the “clutter” in my life, home, etc. Thank you for the guidance that will help me take the baby steps I need to get control.
I am in!! Thank you so much for your inspiration, it has taken me a long, long time to finally let go of some of my many tasks.
Wow. Even though we have never met I feel like you know me. Thanks for getting to the heart of the problem with decluttering and general everday issues with getting our lives on track and organized. God bless! BTW-I’m in!
I’m in! Just recently discovered your blog and am loving it! Thank you for being faithful to your calling to write for all of us!
I’m in…but it won’t be easy to change a life-long habit of procrastination!!
I’m in. Thanks so much for helping me to realize that most of my “clutter” issues are from my mind being so cluttered. I’m getting so much from your writings.
I’m in!!! And love the idea of not only having a “to do” list, but also a “not to do” list… had never thought of it that way, but it’s soooo true!
I’m in! I feel so overwhelmed sometimes! It is nice to have some faith based guidance to become clutter free. So much of the other advice I’ve heard doesn’t align with what I feel is right. Thank you for the much needed help!
Thanks for sharing this study! I have been feeling overwhelmed lately with trying to manage a home with three little boys age 4 and under. I never excelled at home organization before having kids, but now it feels like chaos. I need help! This study is an answered prayer, and I am committed to letting God teach me through the encouragement and challenges that you share.
This is a HUGE area that needs work in my life! Should’ve’s, could’ve’s and would’ve’s overwhelm me until I reach melt down. I will definitely put this to prayer and try to be still and know what God wants. Thank you for all the guidance you provide!
I obviously need this. It is 4:25 on Monday & I am just getting around to last Friday ‘s post. Thanks for your wit & wisdom. Blessings – wendy
I am in!
I’m in!
I’m in! Why is it so hard for us to say no?
Thanks so much for this challenge!!! I’m a procrastinator, I don’t like to admit it but I am. It affects my life in every way. I always think I can do everything all by myself, then I’m left defeated and miserable in the end. I want to change and I know God has a plan for me. Editing my list has been really tough and it’s still a work in progress. There’s so much daily maintenance I have to do with 3 little ones at home; it’s like there’s not time for me to do anything else. I’m still praying for wisdom about this and trying to wait patiently for God’s answer.
I’m slow and a bit behind, but I am “in”! Thank you so much for this eye-opening series and for pointing out this isn’t just an organization problem. I am so “in” that I am speaking to my moms group at church about the mental and spiritual side to all our stuff.
What great suggestions you have for making my life clutter free and helping me better able to walk in the freedom the Lord gives!
I’m in!
I’m in!!! So excited!!!
I’m in, too!
I am a little behind because we’ve been playing “pass the sick,”
and also because we live in one of the most distant US time zones,
but I will do my best to keep on the path y’all are blazing before me.
I so desperately need this right now. God’s timing is perfect!
Thank you (and the friend that referred me) so very much!
Thanks for doing this.
I’m asking for wisdom and trusting Him to answer!
Hi Glynnis
I like probably many am behind on doing all that you have posted. I am just dividing my projects and starting a To Do list from them. I have a cell phone like an iphone where I keep a record of things to do, groceries needed, etc. I have a small note book to start listing the projects and then the steps to completing them. I am a quilter so have many unfinished quilting projects. I have some I am presently working on and others to be started and others I started and got stuck and need to restart. I am a retired RN with a husband, daughter and grandkids. I have looked at the paper sorting and I am loaded with papers around here. I taught nursing at one point and still have much of the teaching manuels. I have papers from courses I have taken and then there is the papers and books from Bible studies and church related courses. I am feeling overwhelmed with all there is to do to get somewhat organized. But, your postings are very helpful and at least encourage me that it is okay to take weeks to do even some of this. I plan to keep these postings so I can refer back. I have also ordered your book so I look forward to reading that. I have to laugh because I once purchased a book called “How to get organized in 1 week”!! I couldn’t even read the book in a week let alone start the organizing!! God bless you in your ministry
I will change” My Priorities ” to ” God’s Priorities for My life ” & I am going to need lots of His Holy Help to do this one !
I’m in. I really need this in my life right now. Thanks.
I am going to cut down the amount of time I spend on the computer.
Wow! It is so easy to feel failure in this area-to feel like you are the only one who can’t seem to get organized and yet I often see areas which I am very organized in. I am appreciating the daily insights on how to re-organize and not be on overload 24/7.
I couldn’t believe how long my list was, and I can’t wait to get it whittled down to the most important things I should be doing!
I’m In….
I love how God gently nudges. He’s been giving me some of those nudges lately to put some healthy boundaries in place. To do so will require me to say no to something else. Here goes…
I’m in! Overwhelmed, but I’m in! I do know that in seeking God’s best this week, it has to start with prioritizing my family and our home, and my health so I have the energy for them!! Thank you Glynnis!!!
I really want this to be the year that I stop doing everything myself around the house. Most of the time I feel that it’s easier to do it myself than to train my children (6,4, and 3)to help me, but I know it is the right thing to do. And if I train them properly, then eventually they will be more of a help than a hindrance. Lord, help me to maintain that perspective! Give me strength to do the hard thing that you call me to (training them) instead of giving in to the easier thing (letting them play while I get stuff done).
I’m in! This series is an answer to a long awaited prayer. Thank you for commiting to it!
For starters, I can’t take time to read all the comments. I’m sure they are great. One thing that helps me a lot is that if you know what your spiritual gifts are, you can say “yes” with confidence and “no” without feeling guilty. This has helped me immensely in recent years. I wish I’d known it sooner. And you are right–there is a time when you can and need to turn over responsibilities. I did that this summer and such a weight is lifted. I didn’t even know it was weighing me down so much. I have a ways to go to get things more under control, but it was a step in the right direction and I now have enertia to continue!
I love the “truths” that are being spoken into my life during this “clutter-Free” challenge so far! I’ve been feeling over-whelmed and disorganized for quite a long time. This challenge is exactly what I needed and God’s timing is perfect!
I’m in ! So many times in an attempt to be perfect, we would rather just do things ourselves instead of delegating to our children or husband. We not only deprive them of valuable learning opportunities but bog ourselves down and miss out on opportunites to just have fun with them !
I am so overwhelmed with my household list that I don’t have a regular commitment to very many things oh there are the school parties, classroom helper, library a few hours a week and i volunteer for a few things at my daughter’s high school. I feel like i should be doing more though, at church too.
I’m in. Thanks so much for the encouragement. I do need to “de-clutter” my mind before I’m going to be successful at ridding the household “clutter”. Thanks!