5 Things to Let Go of Now
Goodbye forever mystery keys and too-tight jeans
‘Tis the season to go on decluttering rampage! As we inch closer to the end of the year, it’s impossible to ignore the flurry of consumption all around us – the sales, the marketing emails, the endless gift lists. While there’s nothing wrong with indulging or celebrating the season, this is also the perfect time to shift your focus inward and consider what you can release.
Ready? Let’s dive into five categories of things to let go of right now – no guilt, no second-guessing. Just freedom.
1. Clothes That Don’t Fit or Feel Good
You know the ones. The jeans that dig in, the sweater that’s perpetually itchy, the shoes you can’t wear for more than 30 minutes without wincing. These items take up valuable space, both physically and emotionally. Confession: I just let go of most of my high-waisted jeans because I realized they were simply not comfortable. I’m a mid-rise lady now and there’s no looking back.
2. Mystery Items Without Use or Functionality
What is this thing, and why are you keeping it? If you don’t know what it is or why you need it, it’s time to say goodbye. Whether it’s a random gadget or a part to something you no longer own, or those mystery keys or cords, you’ll thank yourself for clearing the clutter.
3. Junk Mail and Useless Old Papers
The pile on the counter, the papers shoved in a drawer, the envelopes you’ve been meaning to shred… they’re weighing you down. Schedule 15 minutes to sort, recycle, and shred. Pro tip: Go paperless wherever possible to prevent the pileup. Another pro tip: Most copy places have a locked container for shredding and charge a minimal per pound fee to do the dirty work for you.
4. Unfinished Projects
Oh, the projects you’ve been meaning finish for months, that you swore you’d get back to as soon as (fill in the blank) was finished. Whether it’s the wallpaper you never hung, an abandoned DIY, or a drawer full of half-completed mending, give yourself permission to move on. Put a time on the calendar to finish it this week, delegate the task to someone who can help, or let it go. Poof, its done (or its gone).
5. Sad, Warped, Mismatched Food Storage Containers
I have strong feelings about this one! There is no need to hang onto warped, stained food storage containers - especially if they have no lids. Recycle anything that is no longer functional, and consider upgrading to one set that will stand the test of time. I always vote for glass over plastic, and I love this durable set which is now happily the only food storage we own.
A Gentle Reminder: Decluttering isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Each item you let go of creates more physical and mental breathing room. This holiday season, instead of adding to the pile, let’s release what no longer serves us. Your future self will thank you.
What’s the one thing you’re committing to let go of this week? Let me know in the comments - I’d love to cheer you on!
New Workshop: Let’s kick off the New Year with a live online workshop to reflect, reset, release, and create a values-driven plan for setting and achieving small but meaningful goals - together. CLICK HERE for all the details and to grab your spot.
Meet Me in Santa Barbara: I’m absolutely thrilled to be hosted by Godmothers books in for a book signing and live panel discussion with Riley Reed. RSVP here.
My first (and last?) purchase from QVC: A retractable portable charger!
Wearing on Repeat: This relaxed button up (splurgey, but just gets better with age - a timeless staple)
Loving: This sweet napkin set for a great cause
Watching: The new Queer Eye - the life-affirming content we all need!
Get Organized Master Class: Learn how to edit, organize, and elevate your home like a pro. To the course
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Curated Product Recs: My fewer better faves for your home, life, and wardrobe. To the recs
Get the Books: Actionable strategies to clear clutter, get organized, & elevate your home and life. To the books
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Sorry this is long.
I've had to move three times in the last two years, and it's been a series of downsizes; as a result, I've got rid of a lot, but just as I've really started to see progress, I've had to move on, meaning that I was back to repacking, then unpacking again. None of this has been easy due to two facts - I have several rather bulky hobbies (weaving, spinning, knitting, sewing and embroidery), and as I'm approaching my mid 60s, I've had a long time to build an extensive stash for each hobby. I also don't want to get rid of any of it, as once I retire I won't be able to replace anything; on the other hand, I don't really need what knitters call Sable - Stash Acquisition Beyond Life Expectancy. It's a difficult balance.
I'd got to the point where I just couldn't get around to emptying every box, as I'd only be repacking in a few months.
However, it looks like I may be in this house house longer term, as I've just been offered a 20 month contract extension - so not only can I finally justify properly unpacking, but also feel comfortable enough to actually determine what fibre/yarn/fabric I can let go to a new home. I can also actually indulge in my hobbies, instead of constantly feeling guilty that I'm not unpacking and decluttering. The paralysis is real.
So what have I been doing? I've got several boxes of paperwork that I've been going through in front of the TV, with a large plastic tub next to me to collect the rejects for recycling; this feels very satisfying. I've also joined a local spinning group (that's spinning yarn, not stationary bikes), and at the last meeting I brought a big bag of knitting magazines to give away. They descended like locusts!
My plan is to continue with the paperwork, as well as identifying more magazines and books to donate. Once I have more space I can then actually look at my fabric, yarn and fibre, then use some (I desperately need more clothes), donate or sell some, and keep the rest for future use. It will take time, but the sense of panic that I have to pack and move again is slowly subsiding.
Happy Holidays to you! I value your positive tips that you give us all year long.