Letting go of things from the past is something each of us will eventually have to do. We come into this world with nothing, and we leave with nothing. It’s the in-between where we get to live this amazing thing called life.
Life moves through different stages, and each one involves “stuff.” For example, people come and go from your home (like children growing up), or you might move, start a business, or decide it’s time to downsize. No matter what, we all need, want, buy, sell, and give away things. It’s just part of life.
But if you keep adding things without letting any go, it can cause problems. Your home might shift from feeling warm and welcoming to feeling chaotic. And sooner or later, you or someone close to you will have to let go of all the things you have accumulated.
Why Do We Hold On to Things We Don’t Need?
There are many reasons you might hold on to things you don’t need, want, or use. Here are some of the most common ones I’ve seen in my twenty years of helping clients declutter, downsize, and right-size.
It’s easier to keep everything. Deciding what to keep and what to let go of takes time and energy, and you are just too busy.
You worry about letting go of something you will need again someday. Perfect decision-making doesn’t exist, and yes, you might let go of something you could have used.
You feel emotionally attached to your things. They remind you of special times, places, or people, and letting them go can feel like letting go of those memories.
Is Letting Go of Things from the Past a Good Idea?
As I mentioned earlier, you will eventually have to let go of things from the past. Doing it sooner rather than later has many benefits.
Letting go of the past can help you move forward. Holding onto everything from your past can keep you stuck there. If you surround yourself with possessions that you no longer love and use, you don’t get to live in the present because you are constantly reminded of what was.
Getting rid of the excess can set you free. If you feel stuck and overwhelmed by how much you own, it’s time to let go and experience the freedom that comes with it. Imagine your home with more room to breathe. Imagine your life without the constant need to manage your stuff.
Good things happen when you let go. Not only are you passing your unused things on to others who will use them, but you are setting the stage for what life has to offer. Exciting opportunities arise as you let go and free yourself from the past. Some of my previous clients who decluttered found new love, lost weight, changed careers, moved into their dream home, and so much more.
How to Let Go and Start Living in the Present
Talking about living with less is one thing, but actually doing it can be tough. Here’s how I work with clients to promote success.
Create a vision for your new “life with less.” When I start working with a new organizing or design client, the first thing I do is help them envision their home after the transformation. Keeping that vision firmly in your mind as you declutter or renovate your home will help you reach your goal.
Adopt a “less is more” mindset. This approach is key to enjoying a life with less stuff. Once you create space and freedom by letting go of the past, please accumulate as little as possible. You will be happier, healthier, and have more money in your bank account!
Make time each day to stop and enjoy the moment. Letting go of things that no longer serve you will help you stay grounded in the present. So please take time to pause, breathe, take in your surroundings, and enjoy every small positive moment. For instance, it can be something as simple as looking at trees, water, or grass and taking it all in, or smiling at someone you pass on the street. Even better, take a moment to pat yourself on the back for one small thing you do to create the home you want.
I’ve seen many clients experience positive changes after they declutter. And I know that letting go of things from the past can be hard, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start, Get Organized by Design can help you create a home that better supports the life you want. Reach out to book a consultation.