Items in our homes that hold sentimental value, reminding us of a time or place or person that may be gone, can be very hard to part with. It’s fully understandable. We all struggle with parting with the cherished memories these items hold. Keeping a few items that we love and have a special connection with is great. The problem occurs when our sentimental items are piling up and causing clutter. We have talked about the mental impact that clutter can have. Couple that with the guilt and frustration you may feel in being surrounded by all the sentimental items, and you may be truly unsure of how to tackle that decluttering project. We are sharing our best strategies to help you navigate letting go while still honoring and feeling that attachment to these items.
Understanding Sentimental Clutter
Before diving into the decluttering process for your sentimental items and keepsakes, it’s important to consider why you are holding on to the items in the first place. They likely evoke a range of strong emotions and feelings for you. Assess the true value of each item. Ask yourself if the item serves a purpose or brings you joy. It’s normal to feel guilt when you are deciding to let things go. Keep in mind that you are not erasing the good moment or memory attached to the item. Decluttering is a necessary process. You are clearing out and creating an open and organized space for new experiences and memories.
5 Ways to Let Go
Consider the memory attached to the item over the actual item. Take a moment to think about the memory the object connects you to or reminds you of. If the item reminds you of a person, write down the memory or story. This will help you find value in the memory itself over the object.
Set limits on how many sentimental items you are willing to keep. Find a place for them in your home and designate this the keepsake corner. Setting boundaries will allow you to be more selective in what you choose to keep. It’s a great way to keep only what truly means something to you.
Go digital and take photos of your special items. If the thought of not seeing the item anymore is too much, taking a picture can work well for you. You can create a special album for sentimental keepsakes. These photos will be safely stored away for you to revisit whenever you need or want to.
Upcycle to breathe new life into your items. If you have clothing or blankets filled with memories, create a blanket or pillow. You get to keep the item and the memory, all while creating something you can use. So instead of being tucked away, they can be on display.
Share the item with someone who can use or treasure it. You may find it easier to let go of an item if you know the person it’s going to will appreciate it as you do. You may have family members with limited items from the family who would love to have something to cherish from the past.
One of the most important things to remember as you work to declutter sentimental items is to grant yourself time and grace. It’s a difficult process and it’s okay to take your time to work through all the memories attached to the items, especially those from significant life events and losses. If you aren’t ready to part with certain things, be gentle with yourself. Tuck it away to revisit another time. You don’t have to declutter all at once. Every small step will make a big difference for your physical space along with your mental and emotional clarity.
If you need a hand decluttering and organizing your home, we’re here to help!
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