Decluttering can be such a daunting task, especially if you have a lot of possessions and sentimental attachments to them. Being overly emotional about possessions happens to the best of us, but if we really want to be successful with decluttering, we must realize the emotions are coming from our own mindset, and not our possessions.
Detaching your emotions from the inanimate objects that are occupying valuable real estate in your home is imperative to making objective decisions about the clutter. Is the clutter preventing you from functioning, and possibly causing depression or lack of motivation, and even hindering you from being able to pursue a current desire or dream?
I encourage ways of processing and detaching from emotions in order to be present in the immediate need of function of the space.
Here are 5 ways of overcoming blocks while organizing. It should help you with having a more objective perspective of your project without involving emotions that can delay decisions, conjure up guilt, and prevent you from achieving your goals.
1. CREATE A GOAL
Focus on that goal, and it will help you formulate a more efficient plan.
Is it to simply declutter? Is it to clear out a space for a home gym or craft room? Is it to update your wardrobe? Create a goal.
2. HAVE A PLAN
Go into the project with end results in mind. Don't just "start and see what happens".
Envision the space you are trying to create. What is in it? What isn't in it? Is keeping a particular item going to serve your goal?
3. BE MINDFUL
Instead of focusing on what you're getting rid of, focus on what to keep in order to work towards the goal. Remember that your possessions do not control nor define you, and that letting go of things can be a positive and freeing experience.
4. DON'T WASTE TIME
Don't waste time (unless you truly have something that is worth a good amount of money, meaning at least over $100, not a $5 or $10 item!) wondering if you could sell your stuff. Here's the hard truth. If you own something you never use, the money was "wasted" when you bought it. Not when you're getting rid of it. You're not getting the value back, and will likely spend more time and effort than it's worth trying to sell the items for pennies on the dollar. You are working towards a clear space and peace of mind, hanging onto items longer while you work to sell them (and often, with little to no success) is not in alignment with the goal.
5. GET SUPPORT
Don't be afraid to ask for help or support from friends, family members, or a professional. Having someone to talk to or bounce ideas off of, can make the decluttering process feel less overwhelming.
Remember, detaching from emotion while decluttering is a process, and it takes practice and patience. By using these strategies to be mindful of your thoughts and the goal, you can make more objective decisions and create a more organized and clutter-free living space!