Decluttering – Separating the memory from the item

Updated May 15th, 2023

The last two weeks I have spent completing a complete life overhaul for a client.

The most significant part to all of this was the decluttering.

There were so many items, so many ‘things’ and each one was connected to a precious memory.  At first I was met with some resistance, quite understandably, with my suggestions to let some go.  A lifetime of collecting mementoes had meant the client had an emotional attachment to these items.  But when we stopped for a moment, took a breath and discussed just why each item was important an epiphany was had.  It wasn’t so much the physical item but the memories that holding and seeing it evoked.  Gently I explained that those memories would remain, even if we let go of the physical piece.  All the physical item was doing was taking up space.  The memory would remain, long after the physical reminder was discarded.

Some items are meant to be kept forever, absolutely!  Photographs, ticket stubs and the shell of the first boiled egg your partner made you I am never going to ask you to throw away!  I get the huge significance of these things in someone’s life. These are items that can be easily stored, neatly and without taking up too much space.  But not every single item is necessary.  When we appreciate that all that the item is, is a trigger or reminder, then we can let it go.

Decluttering is not about ditching everything you own with wild abandon, but more so prioritising, utilizing the space you have and realizing that we can keep the wonderful memories without having to keep the clutter.

If you are feeling overwhelmed that’s ok.  It’s completely normal.  Such a task can feel like a mountain to climb.  But to get to the top of any mountain, no matter how high you must just take the first step.  And whether that step is by calling me or starting yourself as long as you step forward you are making wonderful progress.