Welcoming “the new” into our lives, whether it be things, experiences, activities, ideas or people, often requires a careful evaluation of what we already have. Then we need to selectively make the physical and emotional space for new things to enter. This often creates a stumbling block for many of us because we don’t know how to decide what to keep and what to let go.

A number of my colleagues from The National Association of Professional Organizers brainstormed all the questions we ask ourselves and our clients in order to make these decisions. I’m sure that some of these questions will resonate with each of you and help you to create the space for the life you want.

General Questions

Do I use it?
Do I love it?
Is it actively adding to my life?
Is it mine?
Is it broken, and if so, am I ever really going to fix it?
How many of this type of item do I own and do I really need that many?
Would I buy this again if I didn’t already have it?
When is the last time I used it?
If I get rid of it, can I easily borrow or replace it if needed?
If I keep it, will I remember that I have it?
If I keep it, will I be able to find it again?
Do I have the space to store it so I can access it when I need it?
Does it take more time and effort to manage than it is worth?

Emotional Questions

How do I feel when I see it or use it?
Am I keeping it out of guilt?
Does it make others unhappy to see it?
If I am keeping something because of emotional attachment, am I able to honor the item by how I keep it? (Storing a treasured memento in a crumbling box in a damp basement does not honor the memory.)
Do I have other things that remind me of this person, event or stage of my life?
If I took a picture of it, could I let it go?
Am I putting things before people and relationships?
Does this item support my goals and desires or hinder them?
Does the sentimental value override the practical value? (If so, keep it!)

Questions about Clothing

Does it still fit? If not, what is the likelihood that it ever will?
Is it still in fashion?
Is it in good condition?
Would it enhance someone else’s life more than mine if I gave it away?
How many of this item do I need?
Do I have the room to store what I have?
Is it comfortable?
How does it make me feel emotionally when I wear it?
When was the last time I wore it?

Information/Financial/Legal Questions

Do I need it for tax purposes?
Am I legally required to keep it, and if so, for how long?
If I threw it away, could I find the information again someplace else? (Online, at the library, etc.)
Is the information current?
Do I use it or will I ever refer to it?
Do I have more than one copy?
Does it cost more time and money to manage than it is worth?
If I sold it, what would I do with the money?
Will this help me make money?
If I donate it, can I get a tax deduction?

I live in the Hudson River Valley of New York. I’ve been taking the opportunity given to me by the cold and stormy weather to go through my things and get rid of what I no longer use, love or need. It’s very liberating and also gratifying because I know that in these difficult economic times, more people are shopping at thrift stores and consignment shops. These questions have helped me along the way. Have fun making the space for the life you want!

This month’s special offer:
During the month of February, I am offering clients 10% off my usual hourly fee.