I organized all my digital clutter (Macbook, iPhone, iPad, & storage)

Summary

In this video, the creator embarks on an ambitious journey to declutter her digital life across her MacBook, iPhone, and iPad. Recognizing the overwhelming mess of files, apps, and subscriptions, she uses a structured approach to tackle each device, including purging unnecessary files, organizing her hard drives, and reassessing her paid subscriptions. Inspired by HubSpot's Digital Detox Challenge, she incorporates mindfulness techniques into her decluttering process. As she progresses, she reflects on the mental exhaustion of digital clutter while also feeling a sense of control and clarity. The experience serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of maintaining a clean digital environment.

Takeaways

• 😀 A digital declutter can help improve device speed and organization, similar to tidying up physical spaces.
• 📱 Three main devices were identified for decluttering: a MacBook, iPhone, and iPad, each with its own digital ecosystem.
• 🗂️ The importance of regularly evaluating paid subscriptions to reclaim budget and eliminate unused tools was emphasized.
• 🌱 The concept of a digital detox, particularly through HubSpot's 14-day challenge, encourages mindfulness and intention in digital usage.
• 📅 A structured approach to decluttering includes breaking it down by device and focusing on one area at a time.
• 💾 Organizing hard drives and cloud folders can uncover hidden files, making it easier to decide what to keep or delete.
• 🧹 Tools like 'Swipe Wipe' can facilitate the decluttering of photos and videos on mobile devices.
• 🖥️ Using applications like CleanMyMac helps ensure that all files associated with uninstalled apps are properly removed.
• 📧 Services like 'Leave Me Alone' assist in unsubscribing from unwanted newsletters, streamlining email management.
• ✨ Completing a digital declutter provides a sense of relief and control, reinforcing the importance of maintaining organized digital spaces.

Q & A

What motivated the speaker to declutter their digital life?

The speaker was overwhelmed by the clutter across their devices, including numerous temporary files, repetitive photos and videos, and a plethora of subscriptions. They recognized the need to create a more organized digital space akin to maintaining a tidy physical environment.

Which devices does the speaker use for their digital life?

The speaker uses a MacBook, an iPhone, and an iPad, each containing its own set of files, apps, and digital content.

What is the digital detox challenge mentioned in the video?

The digital detox challenge is a 14-day program created by HubSpot, aimed at helping individuals bring mindfulness and intention into their daily digital interactions. It includes tips and tools for disconnecting from devices.

What strategy does the speaker use to organize their hard drives?

The speaker's strategy involves blitzing through each folder to assess its contents, keeping files that spark joy or are useful, and deleting anything deemed unnecessary.

How does the speaker manage their email subscriptions?

The speaker uses the 'Leave Me Alone' tool to unsubscribe from unwanted newsletters. They also manually review their email receipts to create a document listing all their current subscriptions.

What app does the speaker recommend for decluttering photos on their phone?

The speaker recommends the 'Swipe Wipe' app, which allows users to swipe left to delete or right to keep photos, similar to a dating app interface.

Why does the speaker find the digital decluttering process mentally exhausting?

The speaker finds the digital decluttering mentally exhausting because it involves not just physical movement but a deep examination of their digital life, which can feel overwhelming and draining.

What tools does the speaker use to clean their Mac?

The speaker uses 'Clean My Mac' to scan for unnecessary files and applications, ensuring that all remnants of deleted apps are also removed to free up storage.

What insights did the speaker gain from the decluttering process?

The speaker gained a greater sense of control and clarity regarding their digital life. They realized how much they depend on their devices and how important it is to maintain an organized digital environment.

What does the speaker plan to do after completing their digital declutter?

The speaker plans to continue the practice of digital decluttering at least once a year to maintain a tidy digital environment and prepare for the new year.