Why Declutter?

Decluttering is more than just an aesthetic activity. Of course, we all want a beautiful space, but removing clutter does so much more than free up room, it’s therapeutic. Our stuff represents us, our lives, and believe it or not, our emotions. We are our things. When we tackle those excess items, we not only lighten our environment, we lift a weight off of ourselves as individuals.

Niecy Nash, the host of the popular TV show Clean House, said it best, "Clutter is an outward expression of an inward thing." I didn't know how true that was when I first heard it. Over the years, I came to realize my space reflected whatever was going on in my head and my heart. Some people say it’s just stuff. That “stuff” speaks. It tells a story.

Hoarders are the most obvious example of inner turmoil being reflected outwardly. Most hoarders are extremely organized people who have suffered some sort of loss or trauma, which has manifested itself into the inability to let go, leading to a home that's bursting at the seams. That is why hoarders need counseling to be able to declutter their home because it's not about the stuff. It’s about what the stuff represents.

An acquaintance of mine shared her story with me. Her boyfriend had been unfaithful which ended the relationship. She had a folder full of emails, letters, photographs, receipts, and credit card statements proving his indiscretions. She held on to that folder for over fifteen years. Think about that. Fifteen years of being reminded of what happened, of betrayal, of loss. Fifteen years of anger, sadness, and pain. Despite how that folder made her feel, she struggled to let it go. It took the motivation of a friend for her to finally take that folder and throw it in the trash. What happened when she did that was a turning point. By letting go of that folder, she was able to let go of everything it represented. All the hurt and negative emotions went into the garbage right along with that folder. Then, she forgave him. And with that, tons of sadness was lifted off her soul. She was finally free.

Decluttering means so much more than changing our physical surroundings, it changes our mental health and emotional well-being. Letting go of items helps to let go of what those items represent, bringing closure, relief, and even inner-peace. It brings a sense of calm to the space and the emotions. Tackle your clutter head-on. It may seem scary or overwhelming, but it will liberate you and improve your life.
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Tell me, what does your clutter say about you? Let me know in the comments below.

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