32% Only when it comes to very specific items
 

30% Yes, it's difficult, but I'm working on my decluttering mindset
 

23% Yes, it is pure tortue. Every item seems to hold emotional weight

9% Other

5% Nope, I breeze through decluttering with ease

1% I'm completely clutter free!

Here are some other reader comments:

Not being decisive I never start which, as I have read, IS a decision!
 

So many things were given to me by loved ones, especially clothes given to me by my husband or son. My husband is a "saver," can't let go of anything.
 

My problem isn't just sentimental items. I'm a creative person and can see potential in most anything to become useful or used in a craft. I know I have way too many hobbies but can't seem to narrow it down to one or two. Therefore my sewing/craft room and home are overflowing.
 

The mess is so bad; it's overwhelming
 

I was an only child who would like to retire. My parents kept everything (thanks to the Depression.) I feel like I've sold or tossed so much, but still seems like there's so much more that needs to be gone through.
 

I hate throwing anything away. I want my things to get a new home and not add to the landfill. Selling things is a long and tedious process, usually with disappointing results, so I'm trying to just skip that step and donate things right away.
 

Some areas are so out of control, I freeze up. I don't know where to start, so I don't.
 

I am decluttering a house containing four generations of accumulated "stuff" that doesn't belong to me. 

When my husband passed away last year, I was left with the task of sorting his families' items left in the house so I can prepare to move into another house by myself. Unfortunately all the owners of the "stuff" are either deceased or not the least bit interested in helping. I do follow a lot of suggestions found on GON.
 

Usually harder with sentimental items (given by deceased parent) or long-held expensive items
I love to declutter! It makes my home feel lighter and organized. There are a few things that take time to decide and are an emotional struggle because of attachment to family pieces and photos of family and friends. It is an ongoing process but decluttering gives me so much satisfaction!
 

I can't throw away or donate anything without first asking my family if they want it. Once everyone turns it down, I can donate it no problem.
 

I've been working on it slowly for a long time. When the mood strikes, I take advantage and a lot goes at once. Otherwise it's a little here and there.
 

No way do I find it emotionally challenge. It’s like losing weight off my body, but I have to watch it or it will creep back in.
 

Indecision of where to put things is a roadblock for me.
 

The most difficult part is giving up someone I used to be and wish I were again. I need to realize that the person I used to be is still inside and it's OK to change. I'll still be the young mom or the student and I don't need the stuff to remind me.
 

I have trouble staying focused.
 

I am at 80%, but it's the last 20% that is very challenging.
 

It is, so when I get the feeling to clear, then I act on it immediately.
 

Currently, I just close my eyes to the clutter and look the other way. I know I need to do it, but keep looking the other way. Uugghh!
 

Once a year, I do a clean sweep of everything. As a senior, downsizing is certainly in the back of my mind. I find it easier to declutter now as I go at it with the thought of whether or not I would move the item with me to a smaller place. I can be quite ruthless with getting rid of everyday things
 

My husband is even worse than me, but uses the rationale that he may need the items or want to use them, just can't seem to imagine letting anyone else have them.

My hope is that you find it helpful to know how others feel about clutter and the emotional effects it has on so many people from all walks of life around the world.

Clutter is not only physical, paper, or digital items...emotional clutter is very real.

I will leave you with this. Getting rid of clutter is a journey. While each person is in his or her own unique situation, when it comes to clutter, it is a universal challenge that many people are facing.

The clutter did not get there in one day...and it's okay if it takes time for it to begin disappearing.

The clutter does not define you or rule you. You're in charge.

Clutter can be conquered...one tiny item at a time.

P.S. Use my Goodbye Clutter resource, and watch the clutter begin disappearing.