There are a lot of clients that I work with that have a really hard time letting go of items. I hear things like “It is still good” or “I might use it one day” or “So and so gave it to me.” They are struggling with their clutter and spend a lot of time trying to manage it. Believe it or not, all of your stuff takes up a lot of time and energy in your life. If you are heading into a place where you are ready to make a change, I have included some thoughts to ponder and consider when making those tough decisions.For the bigger picture, keep in mind that nothing really new can come into your life if you are hanging onto the old. Only keep things that are useful or beautiful to you and the rest should find another great home. It is not your job to hang onto everything and you will be much happier with a lighter load. Keep in mind that there might be someone out there that your discards could be very useful or beautiful to them and they would appreciate your donation.
What about all of your items that have memories for you? Keep in mind that your some of those memories may not be serving you well. I had a client that was hanging onto some dried flowers from an old boyfriend. She was trying to hang onto those memories of him and that time in her life. When we talked about it, she was adamant about those memories. I explained to her that she was hanging onto the past and not letting new relationships into her life. The next time I came back the dried flowers were gone and she had a big smile on her face. Always ask yourself if that memory is serving you in the best possible way! If not, let it go…
What about all of the perfectly useful possessions that you might use one day? You haven’t used them in years, BUT you might use them in the future. This is a huge category for my clients and I tell them they only use 20% of their possessions and if they were to let it go would they really miss it in the long run? Believe me the weight that is lifted off of your shoulders by purging all of those items, is well worth those decisions.
Don’t be a slave to your possessions! You will spend way too much time and energy managing that “stuff” and it will stop the flow of the energy in your house an life. Let it go, find a good home and be done with the clutter in your life! Remember, fewer possessions will simplify your life, your choices and your decision making. Is it time to streamline your life?
Happy Organizing! Bridges