Check out my recent Breakfast TV Vancouver spot where I chat about spring cleaning and letting go of physical things.
Letting go is an important topic. As an experienced Professional Organizer, I know first hand that it can be a tremendous challenge and one of the main reasons why things pile up. Whether we know it or not, many of our possessions have an emotional hold over us!
Why We Have a Hard Time Letting Go
We:
- Feel nostalgic or have a sentimental attachment to our possessions
- Hold on to things based on hope (Someday I’m going to…)
- Are determined we might actually need it one day…
- Feel guilty if the item was given as a gift
- Feel guilty wasting money if we spent a lot of dollars on something
- Just don’t want to spend time sorting through our stuff or spend money to have it taken away
Do any of those sound familiar?
What We Can Do to Help Let Go
- Remember your memories are not held within physical items
- Think about what you gain if you rid yourself of unnecessary things: space, freedom, time, money
- “Thank” an item before you let go of it (this may help with guilt)
- Give away your special items and important mementos now as a living legacy, rather than after you’re gone. This way, you can enjoy seeing them being used and appreciated
- Think about how your things can help other people. For example, quality clothes and blankets are always needed
- Scan or photograph sentimental items to save space
- Dedicate just small batches of time going through things- you don’t need to devote a lot of time to something you don’t enjoy doing; just dedicate frequent & consistent time
But remember – if an item gives you enjoyment or is useful, keep it!
Check out my Breakfast TV Vancouver spot for more of my interview and before/after pictures of some homes.
Would you like more information on downsizing? Be sure to read 5 Perks to Downsizing Your Home. Or if you’d rather hire a professional, Out of Chaos is here to help. Simply contact us at info@outofchaos.ca or 604-813-8189.
