Tuesday, September 23, 2014

So, how do I know what to keep?

       Downsizing is challenge especially when you are able to keep some of your furnishings. How do you pick one item over another when you like both?  The best thing you can do is to be objective.  Now you're probably wondering, "How on earth am I suppose to be object!?" Start in a room you're most familiar with, like your bedroom. Your goal should first be to identify the bare bones of the space. For a bedroom ask yourself what furniture do I need to make this space functional and efficient? Okay, so a bed would be a necessity and then a dresser so you're able to store your clothes. Maybe you need a night table with a lamp. This is extremely bare bones. Now since you have  meet your needs for that room you can add a few items you enjoy.  I think the idea is to just keep everything as simple as possible.
        If you can go through each room in your home with this mind set it should make the process of picking a choosing a bit easier. Something else you can do if you are really attached to things is bring in an other person who can help you identify your needs. This can be extremely helpful since they won't have the sentimental attachment to your items or furniture.  Then after your needs are met it is totally up to you to decide what you are willing to let go of.
       Some times my motivation to let of things that I'm not actively using is finding someone who I know will appreciate it. It kind of puts my mind at ease. I really enjoy vintage and antique items. I also highly respect their craftsmanship. It is so much harder to get rid of those things even if they are not functional. So I decided I wouldn't get rid of them, but instead I choose to find them new homes. Then everyone is happy, right?
       Earlier this week I packed up my bookshelf which ended up fitting in 4 small U-haul boxes. I was packing up my Outdoor Education books, which in turn led to sorting lesson plans. It was then that I discovered a whole lot of college English papers (among other things). Now these were not papers that I really liked or did well on.  I was sitting there trying to figure out why I have moved with them four different times. So into the recycling box then went along with all my old math notes and home work, class syllabuses and other random school papers. In the end I filled up this box! I couldn't believe I'd been carrying all this around for three years.
      This way I was left with the books I need; at least for now I'm not hauling around a bunch of useless weight. Not to mention I have made space on my future bookshelf for books that will actually be useful. That really is one of the biggest reason to keep anything. Ask yourself what is its usefulness, or even maybe more importantly, how is it relevant to me in my day to day life regardless of what it is.
      Sometimes we can feel guilty for getting rid of our things. Always remember that you are the master of your items and that despite how you may feel they do not in fact have emotions, or feelings and they cannot try to talk you into keeping them any longer. I admit I have to remind myself of this when I'm deciding whether or not to thrift or gift something I own and at one time used and loved. Funny thing is that I am always glad in the end.  

1 comment:

  1. "... and that despite how you may feel they do not in fact have emotions, or feelings..."
    HAHAHA!!!
    Oh, Jessica!!!!
    Your blog is the best ever.
    You are sweet, gentle, right on, and just the right sized bite.
    Thank you a million times!!!

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