There’s a lot of talk and bias in our society about the value of decluttering – our space, our schedules, and our lives. I’ve indeed done my share of clearing out my closets, shaking the blanket of relationships that no longer serve me, and winnowing down my to-do list. Meanwhile, I’ve learned there’s an equally valuable lesson not only from how we empty our worlds, but also how we fill them. I call this conscious recluttering.
A few years ago, I emptied each room of my house of every object and decoration that represented what I was hoping to manifest: more abundance, true love, more fully fulfilling my purpose. These things were keeping me in the energy of constant striving and never being happy right where I was.
A few days ago, I found and went through the boxes of my formerly cherished things, bawling my face off. Sure, it was nice to have blank tabletops and walls; there was something very Zen about the open space. Yet a part of my deepest, best self was stuffed in those boxes in the name of decluttering. Quite simply, I had stripped away too much.
Carefully and thoughtfully, I picked through each object and picture, choosing those that still had meaning for me. I spent a whole day nailing photos and artwork back on the wall, replacing beloved souvenirs and pieces of nature where they belonged. The rest I gave away.
I’ve consciously recluttered my relationships also, reconnecting with people with whom I either lost touch or needed to clear out of my life for a while. Others, I’m continuing to keep out of my physical and emotional space. Deliberately deciding whom to bring back into my trust and world has proven to be extremely empowering.
So before you rush to empty out your space, your contact list, or anything and anyone else that has defined who you are, pause for a moment and ask: which of these objects and people will I miss when they’re gone? Will I feel relieved, or hollow when they’re removed? Only you know the answer, and it will differ with each and every one.
I’m not advocating for you to become a pack rat or to hang out with people who don’t support you. . . not at all. Only to take a mindful look at who and what serves you where you are at this stage of your life.
May your holidays be FILLED with loving people, beloved objects, and uplifting experiences.
With love,
Laurie
Comments 1
I completely agree that one shouldn’t strip away everything that has meaning in the name of decluttering. It takes more effort to evaluate each item and each person in one’s life, but the time taken to do so is well worth it. It’s better to give thoughtful consideration before discarding than to be remorseful later. Thank you for the wonderful points you have made.