Decluttering with Loved Ones: A Fun and Heartfelt Way to Let Go
Here's an idea that I love as both a professional organizer and someone who gets really excited about creative ways to declutter: have a lighthearted “let it go” conversation with family and friends. When you’re together, share that you’re starting to think about downsizing, or you really need to declutter (whatever is true for you) and you’re wondering if there is anything in your house they would really want (and they have space for).
You might be surprised at how this question opens up a whole new way of looking at your possessions. I hear it all the time from people who tell me they’re holding onto things because they’re sure someone in the family will want it someday. Maybe it’s a piece of furniture you’ve been saving for your nephew in college, or that heirloom you’ve always imagined passing down to your granddaughter.
But here’s the thing: more often than not, when you ask, you’ll find that family members don’t actually want some (or all) of those items. Minimalism, simplified lives, the desire for lighter weight furniture, and the ease of caring for dishes that do not need to be hand washed or polished are just some of the reasons that younger generations do not want furniture and home goods that you may be holding on to for them. And that’s okay! It's a bit of a reality check, but it's also incredibly freeing. You can finally let go of the idea that you’re storing things for someone else’s future.
On the flip side, sometimes, someone will express interest, and that’s a win-win! If a family member says, “Oh, I’ve always loved that vase,” or “I would definitely use that desk,” then you know where that item can go and trust me, that makes it so much easier to let go.
But don’t be disappointed if you don’t get the enthusiastic takers you might expect. It’s important to be prepared for the possibility that what you thought was a treasured heirloom might not be on anyone’s wish list and that’s totally fine. Part of the magic of getting organized is finding new homes for items that no longer bring you joy. Whether it’s donating to a worthy cause or passing it along to someone outside your family, there’s always a place where those items can be appreciated.
As a professional organizer, one of my goals is to help people find peace and happiness in their spaces. Letting go of things that no longer serve you—or anyone else in your family—opens up so much room for new experiences and less stress. You deserve a home that makes you happy, and finding the right new home for those items is all part of the process.
So the next time you're with your loved ones, give this little game a try. It’s a great way to lighten up, both in conversation and in your home!
If you need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Visit pinkyjackson.com to schedule a free assessment. We would love to help you with our Onsite Organizing services if you are in the Louisville, KY area or our Virtual Organizing services if you are more remote or prefer to work online.
Pinky Jackson is an Organizing Expert and Decluttering Specialist. She and her team organize homes & small businesses in Louisville, KY. For more information about Pinky’s pricing & services or to schedule your free assessment, go to pinkyjackson.com
