Various Kinds of Emotional Clutter That Many Individuals Struggle to Let Go
Decluttering can be challenging, whether you're tidying up a corner, a room, or your entire dwelling. Some items may seem straightforward to discard, like the worn-out pen, while others, like the untouched painting kit, carry more emotional weight. And that's where the actual struggle begins.
Professional organizer Tracy McCubbin, author of 'Making Space, Clutter Free' and 'Make Space For Happiness', has some insights into this challenge. "The first step is to be judgment-free," she says. "Everyone has these feelings. It's about realizing that having clutter doesn't mean you're lazy; it's much more complicated than that." And she's right.
Let's delve into the seven major types of emotional clutter identified by McCubbin.
The Time Travelers
These are the items that carry you back to the past, often associated with your body's transformation. Think about the jeans you can't squeeze into anymore, or the shoes that no longer fit. There's no shame in letting go of these reminders, as life moves forward, and so do we.
The Label Definers
This category is all about the image someone wants to portray, the notion that possessions reflect your worth. These may include designer clothes, designer bags, or any item that you've kept only because they signal a certain success or identity. But remember, the items don't make the person, and it's never too late to embrace the person you've become.
The Task Avoiders
Whether it's a pile of unopened mail or the voicemail box that's impossible to navigate, there are items we just choose to ignore because dealing with them seems like a chore. But by recognizing this tendency, we can break the cycle and tackle these tasks one by one.
The Fantasy Makers
These are the items we keep or accumulate, hoping for a lifestyle change or wishing for more time. Think about the unused hobby equipment or the pile of unread books. It's okay to accept that our lives aren't as hectic as we'd like, or that our hobbies may not align with the time we have. Let go, and make room for what truly brings joy.
The Cherishers
From grandma's china to $200 candles gathering dust, there are items that we buy or inherit, often stashing them away due to fear or unworthiness. Instead, embrace that these items serve as reminders of our past, but their primary purpose is to bring joy and be used.
The Gripped Gifts
This category includes items we've received as gifts that no longer serve a purpose in our lives. Sometimes, the guilt of discarding these gifts can be overwhelming. But remember, the joy comes from the gift-giver and experiencing the memories associated with it. Consider displaying a photo or memento instead of keeping the entire item.
The Overpriced Regrets
Whether it's a designer bag with the price tag still attached or an unused exercise machine, there are items we keep because we feel obligated, wasteful, or guilty about the initial investment. Remember, it's okay to let go of things that no longer serve a purpose in our lives, even when we've spent money on them.
Addressing these emotional blocks can make decluttering a more meaningful and rewarding experience. And as McCubbin advises, don't forget the power of an accountability buddy to keep you motivated. Happy decluttering!
After recognizing the different types of emotional clutter, you may find it easier to organize your home. RealSimple's decluttering guide suggests starting with one small space, like a kitchen drawer, to build confidence. The painted kit in the corner, collecting dust, could be a symbol of an unfulfilled hobby. Now may be the time to consider if it still brings joy or if a credit line could help fund a new hobby. Embracing the decluttering process, even literally taking each item in hand, can lead to a more organized and enjoyable living space.
