Sentimental Items–We’re Going There

“Our memories are not in our things. Our memories are inside us.”

– The Minimalists

Sentimental items—the final frontier of decluttering 

First and foremost, sentimental items are the category in your home that you should declutter LAST. End of story. Full stop. Emotional attachments run high, and you want to have strengthened your decluttering and decision-making muscles before taking this one on.

Often, the reason why we have such a hard time letting go of sentimental items is because we believe that our memories live inside that item; if we say goodbye to that tie-dye t-shirt or chipped mug with our initials, that we’re also saying goodbye to that person or that moment in time. But in truth, our memories live within us, and we take them with us no matter where we go.

This in no way means that you need to get rid of all your sentimental belongings, or any of them, for that matter; rather, be selective about the one that you keep. Having that tactile experience when you reminisce over days gone by is a beautiful thing, but you don’t want that need to physically hold something to turn your home into a moratorium for your past instead of a space to nourish your present. Fearful of forgetting? It’s only natural. Take a photo! When I made my transition to a minimalist lifestyle over 10 years ago, I took photos of literally everything that I let go of. Even my autographed Macaulay Culkin headshot. Just kidding. I hung onto that gem!

OK, fine, here it is!

Just remember that the decision of what stays and what goes is ultimately up to you. There is no pressure here, but there is permission. If something is still bringing you joy, honor it! Incorporate it into your life. However, if it's no longer relevant to you or reminds you of a time you’d rather forget, say "thank you" and send it on its way.

Creating Space Organizing provides decluttering, home organization, and move management services throughout the Lower Mainland and Greater Vancouver area.