When we declutter, we let go of the past.
We acknowledge all the things we bought hoping they would fill us up, motivate us into change or at least distract us from difficult feelings.
Often we're waiting for things to change: losing a stone to fit into a dress, finding time to read course notes, or the energy to cook for a party.
Over working, looking after children, a long term illness or bereavement can all lead to feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Or perhaps it's been a while since you gave any attention to yourself- theres .always something else on your to do list.
In difficult times it's easier to put things into boxes, or leave them piling up, than to make more decisions. Unfortnately in the long term, stuff accumulates and makes life even more challenging.
Decluttering is not only clearing our physical space, it's about getting current with who we are now; remembering our hopes and dreams and grieving for the ones that didn't happen or turned out differently.
Sometimes it means letting go of a marriage, or relationships. Other times, adjusting an image of where we think we should be.
The good news is that it's also an opportunity to recalibrate and discover who we are what we want. Some goals may remain the same, some may require an action plan and others may be completely changed.
Instead of feeling like a failure when you open your wardrobe, letting go of the dress means buying one which looks good on you now. Perhaps you also decide to make a healthy eating plan.
Instead of feeling overwhelmed when you see utensils clogging up your cupboards, you realise you're more interested in seeng people than cooking for them- you give them away and buy the party food prepared.
Instead of chastising yourself for not reading those course notes, you let them go realising you're no longer interested and look into a career change.
Decluttering brings clarity. When we declutter one area of our home, we see more clearly how messy the other areas are! It's the same mentally; when we process emotions and let go of the past, we see ourselves and our lives more clearly.
We create space for new oportunities and change.
So how do we let go in a way which is supportive and kind?
Firstly, remember you bought these things for a purpose and you were trying to make yourself feel better-which is a good thing! As you put the item into the charity bag, thank yourself and the item for being there when you needed it.
Don't berate yourself for buying expensive items and wasting money. They are now costing you more by cluttering up your home. Give them to a charity shop so someone else can enjoy them.
Offer yourself compassion. Some sentimental items may be really difficult to let go of, as they are strongly associated with a loved one. If you feel strong emotions, remember you're not throwing away the person or their memory. You will always have their imprint and owning objects won't change that.
Remember, no time is wasted. Spending years in a job you hate, a tepid marriage or living in chaos, are all experiences which have led you here.
Now you have an opportunity to create the home and life you really want.
I hope you have found this helpful. Please share, like or comment if you have:)
P.s. If you would like some professional help to support amd guide you, contact me for a free consultation
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