How recently it was that most people had little and had to live frugally. Socks were tucked, every string was reused and broken crockery was glued.
Now the problem is not scarcity, but abundance. Especially when you get older and have saved everything for a lifetime. Closets and drawers, attics and basements are overflowing with clothing, papers, photos, children’s toys, school notebooks, postcards and Christmas cards from years ago, cords, bags… The more stuff, the more hassle: stuff you have to tidy up, maintain and clean. And it’s unsafe. Just think of the shaky stacks of crockery in crammed kitchen cupboards or the boxes and baskets that are easy to trip over.
However, throwing it away is difficult. James Wallman, author of the book ‘Ontspullen’ explains why: “Stuff connects us with others, with events and with our own past.” That explains why many people find it difficult to get rid of something. Though there are ways to make it easier. For example, by taking it step by step, taking pictures of precious objects and instead of throwing things away, take things to the thrift store.
How’s this for you?
I have too much stuff, but I find it difficult to throw something away
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