As a minimalist, decluttering and letting go of unnecessary items can be a liberating experience. However, when it comes to sentimental items, it can be challenging to separate the emotional value from the physical object.
Sentimental items sometimes hold emotional significance because they remind us of a particular person, place or experience, making it difficult to detach from them. Though, it is essential to know that sentimental values lie in the memories or emotion, but not on the physical object.
I can remember a gift someone gave me some years back. I cherished the gift because of the person that gave me the gift. It was very difficult for me to let go of the item even when the item was not in good shape again. Whenever I looked at the gift, it reminded me of the person and the love the day I received it. But with time, I had to let it go physically but not in my heart. It is still in my heart that a particular person gave me something so many years ago but the object is no longer with me physically.
Living a minimalist lifestyle has helped me in so many ways. Helping me to declut from sentimental items without hurting my emotions. Therefore, as a minimalist, there are strategies I take in decluttering from sentimental items without emotional upset.
Firstly, I will let go of the physical object, not the memories. When I decide to let go of sentimental items, I will focus on the memories attached to the item, with this I can still cherish the item without seeing it physically.
Secondly, I will focus on the present, not dwelling in the past. Letting go of sentimental items create space for new experiences and memories. I will focus on the present and benefit of decluttering without upsetting my emotions.
Thirdly, I will take high quality photos of the object before letting go, with this I can still have a visual record of the item with me without keeping the physical object.
Lastly, I will start with small steps and gradually work my way through the object. Letting go of sentimental items can be overwhelming but will take gradual steps, you can do that without feeling emotionally upset.
When decluttering from sentimental items, it is okay to feel emotional. Allow yourself to feel it and take time to process them. Take care of yourself during the decluttering process and engage in activities that will bring you comfort and relaxation with this, you will not hurt your emotions.
With all these strategies, I don't get emotionally upset when letting go or decluttering from sentimental items.
Thank you all for reading.
Images used are mine.