As a child, I can vividly remember my mother rummaging through my closet, a bag in hand. “Keep or toss?” she’d ask, presenting an assortment of items: a faded dress-up skirt, an old baseball glove, a weathered doll. Most often, my answer was “toss.” Occasionally, I’d say “keep,” but those were rare moments. Once the bag was full and headed to the landfill, I always felt a sense of liberation; my room felt fresh and open.
I’ve always been the type who finds it easy to let go of things. I just don’t see the value in holding onto items that don’t truly resonate with me. Whether it’s an old prom corsage, letters from an ex, or those jeans that once fit perfectly—everything just takes up precious space that could be better utilized for, well, fresh air!
I’m not sure you’d believe some of the things I’ve tossed. Let’s just say if you give me a handmade gift from your child, you might be disappointed. Honestly, if you really want to gift me something, make it that lovely green Davines conditioner.
The truth is, you don’t need that old yearbook from high school (I’ve sent mine to the landfill) or all those photos cluttering your phone (I’ve deleted 90% of mine). And those sundresses from Target that just don’t suit you? You guessed it—off to the dump as well. The beauty of decluttering is that once you let go of these items, they rarely cross your mind again. My mom’s wedding photo? I know they got married; otherwise, I wouldn’t be here, writing this!
You have your memories, and they don’t require physical artifacts to remind you of your past. For instance, think about high school whenever you wish—no need to pull out a dusty yearbook and see your awkward self in an asymmetrical bob surrounded by those who teased you.
If my enthusiasm for decluttering isn’t enough to persuade you, consider the joy of a minimalist lifestyle. There are fantastic resources available, such as Leah Finnegan’s article “Throw Everything Out”, which boldly states, “Most stuff is crap. And there is nothing more beautiful than an almost-empty apartment…Crap breeds more crap.” If you’re seeking practical advice, check out Marie Kondo’s “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up”, where she emphasizes the importance of keeping only what “sparks joy.” Now, while I find that phrase somewhat whimsical, the essence is spot on: if you don’t genuinely love an item, it should go.
Asking myself whether an item brings me joy has helped me let go of many things—like that orange cashmere sweater that doesn’t flatter me anymore, or those pink shoes that everyone loves but I find silly. Why keep things that no longer serve a purpose or bring happiness?
And while I still hold onto my well-used Keen boots from a yard sale five years ago, I realize they don’t really spark joy. But the thought of not buying another pair that I may not love even more? Now that brings a glimmer of joy!
If you struggle with letting go or if you’re a decluttering enthusiast looking to embrace this lifestyle, consider Karl Lagerfeld’s perspective: “The most important piece of furniture in a house is the garbage can! I keep no archives of my own, no sketches, no photos, no clothes—nothing! I am supposed to do; I’m not supposed to remember!”
I’m not denying that decluttering can be challenging, but as Lagerfeld suggests, living in the moment is far more enjoyable than being anchored by memories.
In summary, throwing away unnecessary items can provide a refreshing sense of freedom and clarity. Whether you’re looking to make space in your life or simply want to feel lighter, taking the plunge to declutter can be incredibly rewarding. The act of clearing out old possessions not only creates physical space but can also lead to emotional relief and joy.
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