Hi, I'm new to this board, but have been trying to simplify for about 7-8 years. Was doing pretty well until the kids came along (4 and 1). Now that baby is more independent I'm trying to get back to it. But it's so much harder with kids.

I'm overwhelmed. There are so many projects...

DH took a pay cut with his new job. It's a great long-term career move, but we really miss the extra cash. We BADLY need to cut-back.

PLEASE tell me this is do-able. I feel like I'm running in circles

First of all stop and take a deep breath. Okay now take a step back from the situation to get a better/new perspective on things.

It will be a different situation with the kids. It will make it harder to get as much accomplished as quickly but it doesn't mean its not possible. You just need to get a strategy.

Are you trying to simplify or declutter or both? What do you need to simplify the most right now? What you absolutely need is a plan of action. You need to pick one area/thing and work on that. Then you can pick something new to start. When you look at everything you want to change its easy to get overwhelmed. That is why you need to focus and start small. Set daily or weekly goals that are easily attainable for you. That way you can see yourself making progress as you go. That is the best was to keep yourself from getting discouraged.

This board will be a wonderful help to you. Feel free to jump right in and ask any questions you have. Also look back through the posts and see if any of them can give you some ideas.

Just hang in there and know you aren't alone.

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Proud mommy to adorable Kinsley

MY BLOG!

yah, I know I'm trying to do too much at once. Too many irons in the fire. thanks for the encouraging words. It's sometimes so hard to feel like I'm making headway. Plus now there is the added pressure because of DH's job.

Maybe start with one small area at a time, for example, your socks and underwear. I went through mine awhile ago and realized I will never possibly wear 12 pairs of black socks. I do laundry twice a week, so I will never run out. So the extras I added to my Goodwill bag, did the same with my undies (except not in the Goodwill bag!). Now I can close the drawers without problems, can find the pair I'm looking for faster and I feel a little happy when I look at my drawers. I've since moved onto other areas in the house, but start very small and use your feeling of accomplishment to try another task. Good luck - and don't set your sights too high - my kids are 2 and 5 - so I know how you feel. You could also have a yard sale with the extra things you have cleaned out and make a little $$ that way.

I'm one of those crazy DIVE RIGHT IN people...for me I do a the biggest job first...because of a few reasons really...1 the worst is out of the way...2 you get a HUGE sense of accomplishment and 3 its hugely motivational for me to wanna continue after looking at such a great result and it's easy to continue cause it gets easier and faster if you knock the big stuff out first.

The more you have the more you clean...make that your motto.

Check your area for consignment stores...or consider selling on Ebay.It's also motivational when you realize you can declutter and make some cash!!!

If you need help with a specific room or area...just ask...it's easier also to get real quality help when we help you address a job instead of something as a whole.You will be amazed how many ideas you can get from here.

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Avoid Fruits~N~Nuts....you are what you eat!!!

I agree 100%!!! Especially when it comes to toys and dusting. before buying something I think I need I always ask myself can I make do without it and what have I got at home that I can improvise with.

Baby Steps! A little at a time! Maybe check out Flylady.net too. It can be done! My kiddos are 3 1/2 & 18 months so I understand the feeling that you are drowning in their stuff!

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Amanda
Mommy to Zack & Emily

Have you made a list? I love checking things off my list!

Maybe you could break your list into categories, like decluttering, projects that will cost a little money, projects that won't cost money, long-term goals, etc. From there, you can prioritize and start checking off! It really does help give you perspective if you can get it down on paper.

When I had three kids in the house, I considered myself lucky to complete one task on my list everyday(along with the daily dishes, cleaning, and meals). Don't be too hard on yourself!

[quote=marrobinson]Have you made a list? I love checking things off my list!

I love my lists! I have been known to do something not on the list and add it to the list just to get to cross it off. I agree baby steps is the way to go. We are moving into our new house this summer, and I have been procastinating doing anything because of the move. I too am overwhelmed.

[ I have been known to do something not on the list and add it to the list just to get to cross it off. .[/quote]

Very funny!