A confession about decluttering

by kirwin on May 7, 2010

image via

image via

So you all know that I’m selling my house and that I’m decluttering like a madwoman, right? Blah, blah, blah.

You have all been very supportive of my efforts in the Throw Out 50 Things Challenge, but I feel a little guilty. I feel guilty because you’re praising me for something that I enjoy doing.

Confession: I love getting rid of stuff, and I love decluttering. I always have.

When I’m stressed and overwhelmed, decluttering is a cathartic experience. It lightens the weight on my shoulders and I feel better. I get a thrill when I find broken toys, old books, old clothing, whatever.

What about you? Do you enjoy getting rid of things or is it difficult for you?

{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }

Org Junkie May 7, 2010 at 11:30 pm

Oh a woman after my own heart :) I love getting in the zone to organize and declutter. Such fun….and addictive too!

Heidi May 8, 2010 at 12:18 am

I’m the same! I love throwing things out and my problem is that sometimes I pare down too much. I regret throwing out all my yearbooks on a whirlwind need for self-control whim. Still, I think the benefits outweight the negatives BY FAR. I can honestly say that I wear every item in my closet and that I LOVE every item in my closet. I think it’s healthy to revel in positive behaviors. Keep at it and enjoy the fresh, simple life ahead. I’m fully supportive of this big change for you. It sounds phenomenal!

Denise May 8, 2010 at 6:03 am

i get satisfaction by getting rid of things - I donated 10 bags of clothing last week all out of my husbands closet. Now, I can actually hang stuff up and there is plenty of room! Very freeing.

Positively Present May 8, 2010 at 6:58 am

I love decluttering too! I’m about to have a week off next week before I start a new job (woohoo!) and I plan to spend lots of time decluttering my apartment! You’re doing awesome with your 50 things — I’m very inspired!

Mo May 8, 2010 at 3:07 pm

oh a bit of both. Huge satisfaction when I manage to do it. balanced or should I say overweighed by an inherent abilty to attract clutter. I get my wardrobe pared down. And then go to a swishing party and come home laden with goodies. for me its a never ending battle. Although I have to say I AM getting better.
ps - found you again via Move to Portugal’s link love. I thought you had stopped blogging as you went quiet for so long! hurrah - here you are.

kirwin May 8, 2010 at 7:58 pm

@ org junkie~ I agree– I love having a big block of time to get in the zone and just clear, clear, clear!

@ Heidi~ Sometimes I’m worried I’ll get rid of too much. I still have my yearbooks, but really…when is the last time I looked at them?! Thanks for your support and encouragement.

@ Denise~ I would love to go through my husband’s t-shirt collection and PURGE!!

@ PP~ New job — wa hoo! Plus a week off? Even better! Enjoy your decluttering. : )

@ mo~ Yeah, I’m back. *sheepish grin*… I’m glad you found me again!

Clearly Composed May 11, 2010 at 10:49 am

I love the decluttering too! I am participating in a charity flea market next month and have been going through t he house like a mad woman gathering stuff to get rid of. It’s just soul satisfying in a different way than merely cleaning is. I imagine it as saying to the Universe…”Ok, I made room for some good stuff, send it my way!!” *lol*

Danica May 13, 2010 at 11:10 am

I think it’s really true. When everything is everywhere I often feel frazzled. However, when, I can organize things and even get rid of unnecessary things it IS like a big burden is lifted off my shoulders :)

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