What is the root of clutter?

Why do we hold on to clutter?

Basically, it comes from our ancestors. So it’s going back to our parents or grandparents and probably even before that again, holding on to items.

There was very little money. Back then collars were turned inside out. Clothing was passed on to siblings. They held on to things.

Why is it hard to declutter gifts?

We feel that we have to put these items on show – “what if my mother-in-law calls in and asks to see the vase she gave me (even though I hate the fecking thing)?

It’s a guilt thing, with a bit of people-pleasing thrown in. It’s hard especially if loved ones have passed on. We’re saying “Auntie Mary gave me that” or “that was my grandmother’s, I couldn’t throw it out”.

Sometimes we worry that if someone gave us something they’ll come back and look for it, so we hold on to it, but really we know that that will never happen.

What about shopping for unnecessary items?

Years ago people held onto things because they were hard to come by. But we live in a totally different society. There’s the high street, charity shops, Brown Thomas, whatever you’re into. But you have to love everything you bring into your home.

“I’m keeping it just in case”

Just in case it’ll come in handy. Just in case something comes up. Just in case you’ll use it sometime. If you haven’t used it in a world pandemic, you probably won’t use it!

Life is short, so if you’re holding onto something because “granny gave me this”, just remember it won’t fit in a 6ft box!

It’s not about having a Showhouse, but when we’ve order in the home, it’s much nicer living in it.

If you feel like you need support, check out this page to find out more about the three ways you can work with me. Remember that clutter removal is included in my 1:1 sessions (Cork county only) at no extra cost.