Decluttering is very much on my mind. It's not an easy matter. Over the years, we get attached to our stuff; on the other hand, there comes a time, when we begin to realize that at a certain age, and under certain circumstances (such as living in a war zone or seismic zone that might involve evacuation, lack of money and food), a minimalistic way of life would be more apropriate.
There's nothing at the moment, that has actually 'taken over' my home, and yet I feel the need to let many things go ( with or without regrets), and reorganize the freed space.
There are lots of articles and online courses on the subject of Clutter, yet I think it's mainly a personal and individual issue.
To my mind, in order to succeed with decluttering, one has to make a thorough Plan and stick to it. First of all, for the time being, stop buying new stuff. Use up the old items even though they are not in their best shape. Secondly, evaluate one by one, the various item Categories at your disposal: clothes, kitchenware, books, paperwork, furniture , suitcases/bags, sentimental memorabilia, etc...
Well, from my own experience so far, I think it's easiest 'to dispose of' and find decent Homes for clothes and shoes. These could be donated to individuals as well as to second - hand shops. Books are hardest 'to dispose of'. Not all books; fiction books are still very sought after as gifts and means of escapism.
Most of my books , however, are non-fiction: guides, law books, biographies, health books, encyclopedias - all in good condition. I'll have to make up a list , decide what to keep . and the rest of it try to place in libraries or even sell some, if possible. Let's face it; we live in the world of computers. and most of the knowledge is online. Besides, books take up place and need periodical dusting.
Anyhow, it takes time and patience to make the best of all worlds - my world, and the world of my stuff.
