I can’t tell you how many clients I’ve worked with who have tried hiring an organizer before and ended up feeling worse. They’ve told me stories about organizers who came in aggressively, making them feel judged or pressured to get rid of things before they were ready. That’s not how I work. Organizing shouldn’t be about stress or shame - it should be about creating a space that works for you.
Letting go of things can be hard, even when you know they’re no longer serving you. If you’ve ever stood in front of a pile of clutter, feeling stuck, here are some gentle but effective strategies to help you move forward:
1. The "Just In Case" Test
If you’re holding onto something because you might need it someday, ask yourself:
When was the last time I actually used this?
If I needed it, could I borrow it or replace it easily?
Is this item taking up space I’d rather use for something else?
Being realistic about how often you actually use something can make letting go easier.
2. Keep the Memory, Not the Item
A lot of clutter sticks around because it has sentimental value. Instead of holding onto everything, try:
Taking a photo of it to keep the memory.
Keeping one meaningful item from a collection instead of all of them.
Asking yourself if the item itself is important or if it’s just the story behind it.
You don’t have to keep everything to honor a memory.
3. Give It a Second Life
If it’s hard to part with something because you feel guilty about waste, think about where it’s going.
Would someone else benefit from it more than you?
Could it be donated to a cause that matters to you?
Is it in good enough condition to sell or pass along to a friend?
Knowing your things will have a second life with someone who needs them can make the decision easier.
4. Set Boundaries for Your Space
Instead of deciding one item at a time, look at the bigger picture.
If a category of items is overflowing, decide how much space you’re willing to give it.
Use containers or designated areas to set limits (e.g., “This bin is for blankets - if it doesn’t fit, I need to let one go”).
Prioritize the items you truly use and love, not just the ones you feel guilty getting rid of.
5. The “Do I Want to Carry This Forward?” Question
Instead of asking yourself, “Should I get rid of this?” try asking, “Do I want this to be part of my life going forward?”
Does this item fit into the life I’m building?
Is it adding value, or is it just there?
If I didn’t already own this, would I go out and buy it today?
Shifting your mindset from what you’re losing to what you’re choosing makes letting go feel less like a chore and more like a step forward.
Final Thoughts
Letting go doesn’t have to be a stressful, emotional battle. When you focus on what you’re keeping and creating rather than what you’re giving up, the process becomes so much easier. And the best part? Once you start, you’ll feel lighter, clearer, and more in control of your space.
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