Keep or Toss – 6 Questions to Ask

Keeping things we don't use is a big stumbling block on the road to getting organized. Consider asking these questions when deciding about what to hold on to:1. When was the last time you used it? If you can't even remember, let it go. If you've used it recently, obviously it's a keeper. The more infrequently used, the more to consider letting to.2. If you were planning to move next month, would you bring it along? Imagine moving soon. What would you pack  up and bring? If you wouldn't move it, no sense in keeping it now.3. What's it worth? Nobody wants to just toss something of value. But beware that reselling means letting it go on the cheap and it takes a lot to manage. Also, remember, keeping many lower value items will not help the clutter problem!4. What is it costing you to keep? Even if you're not paying for storage, you pay for living space.  If you want to free up the valuable space in your home, consider letting go of items you don't love.5. Do you know someone else who would like to have it? Knowing someone who would enjoy an item that you don't use can be great motivation for elimination. Consider friend and family when you're on the decision making fence.6. What is its sentimental value? Do you save every piece of artwork your 5 year old created? What about all the boxes from Grandmother's house? Keeping a few precious items as memories may be important, but beware–if you keep too much, you can't find what's truly important!