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Are you struggling to let go of clutter that has sentimental value? Do you find yourself hanging onto things “just in case”? If so, you’re not alone!
If you’re like most people, you’ve probably got a few cherished possessions that are crammed into every nook and cranny of your home – and you just can’t seem to let them go. Even if you don’t have the space for them, it’s tough to part with those items that you just love so much or afraid to get rid of. But before long, all that stuff is going to start taking its toll. You’ll feel bogged down by the clutter, and it will be harder and harder to find anything. So how do you overcome the sentimental attachment to your stuff?
1. Get rid of the easy stuff first
Start by clearing out any and all items that you don’t need or want in your house. Be as thorough with this step so it’s easier for you to get rid of things like appliances collecting dust, decorations past their prime (10 years), etc. Maybe even check under kitchen tables/sitters if there are gadgets which have been unused since before we had kids – yikes!
It doesn’t matter which room you’re in, go through it with a fine-toothed comb and make decisions about items that are not sentimental first. By starting with easy items first, you’ll adapt yourself to the decluttering process and be more willing to part with sentimental stuff when you’re ready.
2. Understand your motivation behind keeping the items of sentimental value
We can often confuse what we want versus need. We might think that a new phone or purse would make us happier. But if we are physically able to survive without having that item in our life, well, then it’s just a want. If we are truly trying to live a happier life with less, then we need to evaluate what we feel we really need. It also helps take some time to figure out all emotions coming up so don’t judge yourself during the process!
Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- By keeping these items do I feel burdened? Do these items limit my use of storage an enjoyment of my home (whether it’s the item individually or the combination of ALL the sentimental things causing clutter and stress)?
- Do I use or view these items enough that they bring me joy and happiness? Are there ways I can use them more so that I would enjoy them more?
- Why do I feel the need to keep these item(s)? Is it because I love them? Does it have memories attached to it? Do I use it often enough to make keeping it worthwhile? Or would I feel bad for the person who gave it to me if I was to let it go?
3. Practice gratitude to help ease the letting go of stuff
Gratitude is the key to a happy life. The less clutter you have, the easier it will be for your mind and body both spend time feeling grateful about what they do have in their lives! Start by making yourself an inventory list of all those wonderful things that reside under one roof – family members and pets included!
As you make your list, you will realize just how fortunate you are. Frame the list or tape it to your bathroom mirror to remind you daily. You can also fold it up and keep it in your wallet to remind you of what you already have when you’re in a situation where you want to buy more or are having trouble letting go of items that no longer fit into your space.
Shifting to a place of gratitude can help lessen the harmful sting associated with letting go. It can provide a space for positivity and allow you to keep the things around you that you are genuinely grateful for and part with the rest in your own time.
4. Don’t compare yourself to others
When you see your neighbor’s home, it might make for an interesting comparison. You’ll likely be envious of what they have and feel like staying at their place would help tip the scales in that direction – but don’t forget why we started this process! We need to let go so as not to steal joy from ourselves by comparisons with others who are happier than us or have more stuff.
Go back to your gratitude practice, you may have a hard time letting go of your sentimental items, but remember that they will only weigh you down in the long run. Instead focus on what money can’t buy or replace-memories and friendships! These are priceless no matter how much stuff someone else has collected over their lifetime.
5. At your own pace, slowly remove items with sentimental value
This step is completely up to you! You can get rid of sentimental items… or not. This decision is a personal choice that should make you feel good. Remember, no hard rules are stating you need to declutter all sentimental items to live a minimal and happy life. You should strive to find a balance that works well for you and your family.
Ways to let go and how to hold on:
- Display it!
- Pass it on to another family member who would use it more
- Keep one; lose the rest
- Acknowledge and cherish the memories, but lose the clutter
- Make it into something functional, so it is more useful
- Sell it or give it away
The choice is yours y’all!
These are helpful thoughts.