This blog was originally published in 2020 and has been updated.
“God put me on this earth to accomplish a certain number of things. Right now, I am so far behind I will never die.”
The sweatshirt in question
These were the words printed on a sweatshirt I gifted my mother years ago. She loved it and wore it often. That quote perfectly captured how she felt most of her life: always a little behind, especially when it came to managing her home.
Like many who grew up during the Great Depression, my mother learned to save everything. Nothing was ever wasted. Everything had potential value “someday.”
Because of that mindset, she accumulated a lifetime of belongings: Clothing, décor, linens, toiletries, over-the-counter medications, and endless rolls of gift wrap, to name a few.
When “Someday” Becomes Too Much
After my mother passed away in 2012, I began the emotional process of sorting through her belongings. It was a familiar journey, as I have helped many families face downsizing a loved one’s home while navigating memories, emotions, and an overwhelming amount of “stuff.”
If you’re facing a similar situation, you may find encouragement in my related post on decluttering before a move.
My mom’s vintage gift wrap: the gift that keeps on giving!
Many items I donated to my list of local Minnesota charities and donation centers. It felt good to know that her things would be used by people who would appreciate them.
However, I did bring home her Christmas wrapping paper, determined to use it. Years later, I am still wrapping gifts with it. Recently, this made me pause and wonder:
How much do we hold onto that we may never realistically use?
The Joy of Letting Go
Before she passed, I had the opportunity to help my mother declutter and organize parts of her home. I’ll never forget her reaction.
She felt lighter. Relieved. Grateful.
She thanked me over and over again, because she could finally breathe in her space.
Lessons on home organization
This is the transformation I strive to create through my professional home organizing services.
Decluttering Tips to Get Started
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, I recommend starting small:
- Focus on one category at a time (like linens or gift wrap)
- Ask yourself: Will I realistically use this in the next year?
- Let go of duplicates. You don’t need 10 of the same item
- Donate usable items to local organizations
Be sure to explore my full list of donation and recycling resources to keep items out of landfills.
Preparing Your Home for the Next Chapter
Decluttering is often the first step toward a bigger life transition, whether that’s downsizing or selling your home.
If you’re planning to sell before you move, there are ways to stage your home to appeal to buyers while remaining functional for daily use living in the home.
Creating Space for What Matters
Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of things, it’s about creating space for peace, clarity, and joy. Every object you release creates room for something better: improved ease, functionality and freedom.
Got mess? I can help with that!
Just like my mother experienced, even small changes can bring profound relief.
I’d love to help you achieve that freedom together, one space at a time.
And as for gift wrap that never seems to run out…I am grateful to be reminded of my mother when I use it.
Ready to feel lighter in your home? Start here:
Happy decluttering,
Recent Comments