Quote Originally Posted by cassiesmom
I have two problem areas ... the stuff that could be of use 'someday' and the things that bring to mind happy memories when I look at them. The challenge is that someday never comes, and the happy memories are there whether I look at those things or not. I would not wish Packrat tendencies on anyone.

Just a couple suggestions that has worked for this sentimental packrat...

1) things that may have a 'someday' usefulness either list on ebay, craigs list, have a garage sale, or better yet put on www.freecycle.org for the group in your area. That way someone would get some use out of the items rather than them collecting dust and taking up space not being used.

2) This will sound dumb at first, and I got the suggestion from one of those books I recommended (although honestly I think it was more of a joke in the book but it works for me). For the sentimental items that make me happy but I have no actual use for anymore I simply take pix of them then I can get rid of them. Sounds strange but I can pull up the pix anytime I want to look at the item or show it to someone, or think about the memories associated with it, but I don't have to store the item in a box that I can't find without digging for an hour and making a mess of my closets! LOL

Decluttering from packrat tendencies is emotionally difficult but so worth the effort and time once you realize it IS possible to actually have an empty shelf or cubbyhole in your house so when you bring home more packrat stuff you have a place to put it! ROFL I'm not as bad of a packrat as I used to be, it's a constant struggle, but I'm definately improving with time.

Good luck.