10 Steps for Saying Goodbye to Sentimental Objects

Are keepsakes cluttering your space and your life?

Consider this approach for letting go and moving on

Old photographs, hand-me-down tea sets, sweaters, school art projects — we all have some variations of these items, just sitting in boxes, waiting for … er, what is it they are waiting for, exactly? A day when you will suddenly wake up and feel a need to riffle through baby clothes and silver spoons? While I am (sort of) joking, the truth is that we will never look at many of the “important” items sitting in boxes in storage. We keep them because we are emotionally tied to these things, and because when we see them we cannot bear to get rid of them. What if, by editing your keepsakes, you were able to process your past and free up emotional space to live a richer, healthier life in the present?

By carefully and intentionally examining each object, you can end up with a more special and meaningful collection of truly important items worth keeping. If you’re feeling ready to take charge of your keepsakes and heirlooms, these 10 steps can help guide you through the process.

Author:

Laura Gaskill  Houzz Contributor. I cover topics ranging from decorating ideas, product picks, Houzz tours, and interviews with designers and architects, to the monthly home maintenance checklist. My favorite pieces to write tend to center around the emotional aspects of home and savoring life's simple pleasures. Learn more, and follow my adventures in creating a warm and cozy home at http://www.lolalina.com/.