It’s true

We hold onto things because we have ourselves believing that one day we will use it.  Or, the memory of the object is so powerful we give it full permission to take over our emotions.

Then something funny happens – the things that we have been clinging to, you know,  the items we convince ourselves are so wonderful,  are no longer making us feel good – and in some cases, can actually make us feel pretty darn rotten.

Now we have created two problems – physical clutter from our stuff we are holding onto – and emotional clutter because of the stories we keep telling ourselves, producing guilt and anxiety.

So what to do, what to do…

Create a lifestyle of giving

Most clutter experts say…(yes, me included) that “if you haven’t used an item within the past year, give it away!”

Joel Osteen states in his book Your Best Life Now, that “If it’s not meeting a need, turn it into a seed.  We will reap what we sow.”

Consider this

The extra things that are in your basement, attic or garage – why not have a garage sale and see what you can sell at reasonable prices.  Don’t think that this isn’t helping people because it is.  There are plenty of people who need your stuff that simply cannot afford to buy new; books, baby items, clothes, kitchen utensils, tools.

Then whatever is left – donate to a favorite charity of yours or give it away to someone you personally know who is in need.  By doing this, I do believe you will see the benefits that far outweigh holding your items.