Making the Decision to Finally Dispose of Items Just Gathering Dust

How many times have you looked at an object, small kitchen appliance, piece of furniture, articles of clothing, stacks of old books or magazines, knick knacks, etc. and said to yourself: Someday I’m going to use that or that someday it will be worth something?

But when another year rolls around, you realize that item is still in the same place, untouched, since the last time you made your declaration. It’s likely this scenario has happened more than once, with different items.

The decision to “Make the Decision” and get rid of an item that has been collecting dust or taking up precious space in your home is a key part of decluttering. The process of arriving at the decision to throw away, give away or sell item(s), is different for each person.

For some, it can be as simple as making the declaration and throwing it out, while for others it can be a gut wrenching and difficult endeavor. Getting rid of something that has emotional or monetary value – even though you aren’t using it any more – can be difficult. It might be something from a loved one who is no longer with you; or it might bring back precious memories of your youth.

It may be that you paid a “king’s ransom” for it years ago and you believe by holding onto it, it will be worth even more in the future. Granted, some but not all things do increase in value with age. The key is to finally do the research or contact a professional appraiser, and then make the decision.

Whatever the reason for your reluctance, as a de-cluttering and organizing professional, I have found that it can be less stressful if you start the process with these simple, thought provoking questions:

1. How long have you had this item?

2. When was the last time you used it?

3. Does this item have emotional, sentimental or monetary value?

4. Does it still bring joy into your life or is it just taking up space?

5. Do you think someone else would find joy in owning it?

I suggest to my clients that they hold the item in their hand when making the decision, and decide what to do with it in three to four seconds. If they still can’t make a decision in the allotted time, I instruct them to place it to the side or in a box marked “Not Sure.”

The purpose of the “Not Sure” box is twofold: as a holding area to use while you are mulling over its disposition and as a “cooling off” place. Once you have thrown away a number of other items, it seems easier to go back and then part with the things you were more reluctant to part with before.

I once assisted a client who felt she must get rid of everything. I told her that that was not the purpose of de-cluttering and organizing. I explained that some items have greater value than money and the sentimental or emotional value it has means you should keep it.

Really, having the idea you have to get rid of “everything” you’re currently not using can stand in the way of getting rid of at least “some” or nearly all of those things, and finally freeing up space.

For more on the de-cluttering process, read “10 Easy Steps To De-cluttering Your House” in our blog archives or visit us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DecentlyandInOrder/?ref=hl .