Are there places in your home that you avoid, such as your attic, basement or closet just because it is filled with items that you aren’t sure what to do with? Sometime going through clutter can be painful, not only because of the work involved, but also because many items that we own may contain memories. And chances are that many of these memories aren’t necessarily positive. So why hold on to bad memories? Getting rid of old associations can put you in a great place to move on with your life and per surrounded with positive energy.
What you surround yourself with can influence your thinking. And even if the objects are stored away somewhere, they are still in your life. You need to rid your home of anything that has negative or bad associations with it. Anything that reminds you of a negative experience or a bad time in your life should go. Yes, even items that are valuable. If you had a painful break up years ago, for example, go ahead and sell the engagement ring.
Sometimes items that we think are practical and may need in the future can hold negative memories. Are you still holding on to the pair of crutches you got when you broke afoot or sprained an ankle. Get them out of your house. Keeping them is like focusing your energy toward getting hurt again. And if you do ever need crutches again, chances are that your doctor or hospital will provide them anyway.
There are three items that I have been having a hard time letting go. These are the three sealed recommendations given to me by my professors for entrance into graduate school. Unfortunately, circumstances prevented me from applying, and this is a painful memory. I have probably been holding on to them with the vague hope of getting an advanced degree. But the truth is that with a lifetime of experience since then, these letters no longer apply and may be preventing me from moving on with new goals.
Take some time today to identify at least three items in your home that are tied up with bad memories and then expel them from your home and your life.
Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right.
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