Tips for Letting Go of Household Items

Sometimes getting organized can be overwhelming. I’ve found many clients are intimidated and overwhelmed about getting rid of their things. There are ways to make downsizing and living simply with less easier. Here are 5 tips to letting go of things you don’t need, use or love.

1. Take a Photo. Take a photo of the item that you are having trouble letting go. It could be a favorite piece of clothing, your child’s science project, or your collection of teddy bears. The picture doesn’t have to be boring. Put yourself in the picture by wearing the article of clothing or have your child hold up their art project in the picture. Create a scene for the photo. Put all the teddy bears neatly displayed on your bed and lay down in the middle of them. Get creative and have fun with it. The picture will hold the memories and you can let go of the item.
2. Create Rules and Guidelines. Give yourself limits. Common examples of this are the ‘one in, one out’ rule or the ’12 months’ rule. If you bring home a new pair of shoes then an old pair must go. This rule works for all items – toys, clothes, collectibles, furniture, paper, etc. This rule lets you limit your quantity of items and minimize clutter. If you have not worn or used an item in the past 12 months then you likely never will. After 12 months the item becomes clutter. Let it go!
3. Donate or Sell. Donating your unwanted items to a cause not only helps those in need but you can be rest assured that your item is going to someone who needs it rather than creating clutter in your home. Feel good about donating your unwanted or unused items. Also, selling your items is a great way to make money. You can use the money you make to invest in something that takes up less space and will hold its value. Or you could donate the money. Options for donating or selling your items are endless.
4. Ask Tough Questions. Ask yourself challenging questions that help you evaluate the usefulness and need of the item. Such questions include…
   • When did I use it last?
   • Who would ask me for it?
   • What is the worst case scenario if I don’t have it? (be honest with yourself)
   • Will I ever need this again?
   • Is this item in-style or up-to-date?
   • Why would I need it
5. Don’t Do It Alone. Making the decision to let go of things can be tough. Having a friend who supports your goals makes letting go of items easier. If you don’t have someone you trust to assist you consider hiring an organizer. Organizers are available for just about every budget. Visit napo.net to find an organizer near you. Also consider hiring a virtual organizer. This may be a more affordable option and you can choose an organizer who may not live near you.

Letting go of items is challenging. Using any or all of these tips will help to ease the transition. And once the clutter is gone you and those around you will feel better!