The burden of abundance
Let me start by saying it is not lost on me what a privilege it is to own “too much”. In a perfect world I’d connect all those that have an abundance with those that have a need. In another post, I’ll dive into responsible decluttering. For today, let's discuss the impact clutter has on YOU. Because we cannot create solutions without first identifying the problem.
In a world that feels polarized on so many levels, there is something most people have in common. We are managing too much. Too many commitments, expectations, and too much stuff. This universal problem leaves us feeling an excess of stress and loss of control. Remember a time when you could just turn on the tv and watch your favorite show? Now you need to be borderline genius to understand how the television works, which remote to use, which apps you need to download for your favorite shows, separate subscriptions for each of them, and patience to figure it all out before your toddler throws a tantrum, (if you know, you know).
My point is, I am not alone in craving a more simple life. What if there was a way you could take back some control? It is unlikely you will convince your boss to lower their expectations of your performance, or that you can convince school to send your child home with less homework and projects to complete at home. But, you CAN manage the way your home functions and that starts by evaluating your relationship with the stuff you own.
The truth is, you pay for stuff long after you’ve handed over the money for it. Your appliances need maintenance, clothes need washing, toys need batteries, plants need watering, shelves need dusting, food and supplies need refilling. You get the picture. Everything you own takes a slice of your money and a chunk of your time. Research shows that the average American home has tripled in size over the past 50 years, our homes average 300,000 items within them, and over the course of our lifetimes we spend 3,680 hours searching for misplaced items.
So why do we choose to have so much??
While there are many reasons it may be hard to let go, I’ve found a handful of common barriers.
#1 What if I need it someday?
My short answer is this… “if it’s not irreplaceable, let it go.” If you lost it, would you and could you buy it again? Let the store do the storing! Additionally, borrowing from friends is a lost art. If you suddenly regret donating that deviled egg platter that you now want for a potluck this weekend, ask a friend or neighbor if you can borrow theirs! If you really need something, it will find a way back to you. Of all the things I’ve sold and donated (and oh boy, it’s a lot), I can count on one hand the number of items I’ve had to repurchase. I don’t regret a thing.
#2 The item is sentimental or was a gift
This one is probably the hardest because emotions are involved. I challenge you with this question, “Do you feel less guilty keeping it tucked away in a dark and dusty corner than you would feel finding a home that will love it?” Saying goodbye to the memorabilia does not erase the memory. If you really can’t let it go, find a way to honor it by displaying it with love. (Grandpa’s handkerchief framed in your closet, vacation sea shells displayed in a beautiful glass vase on your coffee table, Grandma’s tea cup mixed in with your mugs, etc). As for gifts, personally I would never expect anyone to keep something I gave them if they no longer love/use/need it. I only hope that feeling is reciprocated.
#3 I never even took the tags off!
Look, the money is already gone. So whether you bought it because it was an irresistible sale, or you splurged but don’t actually care for it, the damage is done. I bet you’ll feel better when it’s gone and you get to stop feeling guilty every time it catches your eye.
#4 I don’t have the time
Time is our most precious resource and for many, it’s sparse. I get it, getting rid of possessions takes energy and some skill. It’s not simple. If you’re too busy, or just plain don’t want to do it on your own, phone a friend or hire help. The first step to getting organized is not to buy bins for your clutter. Look, I love The Container Store and Target’s new Brightroom collection too… But don’t organize what you don’t need.
The list of barriers goes on. But the results of living a more simple and decluttered life are priceless. I’ve personally watched my clients transform into more energized mothers, cooks, employees, wives, whatever their heart desires just by letting go of the things that are holding them back from the person they want to be and the lifestyle they want to live.
