Decluttering is hard. If it weren’t, we’d all be perfectly organized, with all the space we need—but one thing that stops many of us is the worry that if we sell, trash, or donate an item, we may need it someday. Over at Unclutterer, they suggest when we run up against that wall, we ask ourselves a simple question.


David Caolo explains:

Instead of asking yourself, “Will I need this some day?” consider the alternative question: “Is this stuff affecting the organized life I want?” If the answer — the honest answer — is yes, it’s time to let it go.


It’s a simple question, and a bit more esoteric, but it does demand thought. You should also cover your bases though, and ask yourself whether the item would cost more to keep than it would be to replace, or whether you could easily afford to replace it if you had to—in which case you’re probably better off stashing the cash somewhere and getting your space back instead. If it’s a one-of-a-kind or prohibitively expensive thing though, obviously it’s harder, but that brings us back to the original question of whether it’s affecting the life you want to have—and if it is, you know you’re better off without it.

Dealing With I-Might-Need-It-Some-Day Thoughts | Unclutterer