Jan 19 - Clearing More Than Clutter: Releasing Emotional Weight

Jan 19 - Clearing More Than Clutter: Releasing Emotional Weight - GON in 5 Minutes Newsletter

Published: Sun, 01/19/25

Updated: Mon, 01/20/25

Get Organized Now!

In Less Than 5 Minutes!

by Maria Gracia

January 19, 2025

GetOrganizedNow.com

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Walk through a room and identify one item you're holding onto out of guilt or obligation. Reflect on whether it still serves you, and if not, set it aside to donate or discard.

Clearing More Than Clutter:

Releasing the Emotional Weight

I’ve always believed that creating a peaceful, organized home has less to do with storage bins and shelves and more to do with what’s going on inside of us. Sure, it feels good to tidy up a drawer or clear a kitchen counter, but there’s often something deeper that makes the process feel so overwhelming in the first place.

We hold on, not just to things but to what they represent. A vase from someone who hurt us, a dress we haven’t worn in years but feel guilty giving away, a stack of papers that reminds us of tasks we never finished. These items aren’t just objects—they carry layers of feelings that can be tough to face. Letting go of them can feel like letting go of part of our story, and that’s hard.

But here’s the thing: keeping them doesn’t change the past. It only keeps us stuck in it. The physical items may be taking up space, but it’s the unresolved thoughts behind them that create the real weight. When we finally face those emotions, something shifts. It’s not about pretending the past didn’t happen—it’s about deciding it doesn’t need to take up room in our homes or our hearts anymore.

I once helped a friend clear out a guest room packed with boxes she hadn’t touched since moving in. At first, we were just sorting through holiday decorations and extra linens, but then we opened a box filled with old letters and gifts from a friendship that had ended painfully. She hesitated, unsure of what to do next.

And I get it—deciding what stays and what goes in those moments can feel like rewriting history. But after a deep breath, she realized the memories were already part of her. The objects didn’t need to be.

What helps is to approach it gently. Ask yourself: Am I keeping this out of love or obligation? Does this item make me feel peaceful or burdened? Would someone else find joy in this more than I do now? Sometimes, the kindest thing we can do is release what no longer serves us, trusting that we’ve learned the lessons it brought.

And when you do? That feeling of breathing easier, of having more space—not just on the shelves but in your life—that’s worth the effort. Clearing out the extra isn’t just about the stuff. It’s about giving yourself permission to move forward, lighter and freer.

Because the truth is, the most challenging things to release aren’t on our shelves. They’re the emotions we’ve stored alongside them. And you deserve to be free from that weight.

P.S. I've curated a list of Wellness Essentials for January. Enjoy!

Today is National Popcorn Day

Popcorn has been enjoyed for thousands of years. Archaeologists have discovered ancient popcorn kernels in caves that date back over 5,000 years, some even popping successfully when tested. Early Native American tribes used popcorn not just for eating but also for decoration and ceremonial purposes.

In the 1890s, the invention of the popcorn machine made it a popular street snack, and during the Great Depression, its affordability turned it into a household staple. It even thrived during World War II when sugar rationing limited candy production.

Next time you enjoy a bowl, you're not just snacking—you're connecting with a treat that's stood the test of time.

Enjoying my newsletter? Please REPLY and let me know!

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NEW GON Member Bonus!

As a valued member of GON in Five Minutes!, you get exclusive bonuses whenever new ones are available—PLUS unlimited access to all of my previous ones. This month, I'm excited to announce my...

GON 2025 Monthly Organizing Calendar:

Declutter, Organize, Clean, Tidy, and Transform Your Home

Claim this printable and explore my vault of complimentary resources...click here

Identify Your Tasks: Revamp Your TO DO List: Make Time for Fun and Productivity: Every task you face each day fits into one of four categories. Understanding these can help you stay productive, reduce stress, and make the most of your time. Access here

January 2025 Monthly Organizing Checklist: My January 2025 Organizing Checklist contains daily organizing tasks, winter cleaning ideas, and tips for a clutter-free home

January 2025 Monthly Organizing Challenge: Accomplishment: Take on these five Accomplishment Challenges to refresh your home and mindset

GON Reader Web Poll: When it is snowing outside, what is your favorite thing to do? Cast your vote in the poll on my home page and let me know. Results will be published in this newsletter next month.

Results of last month's poll: Last month I polled GON Readers and asked, "How do you tackle post holiday cleanup and organizing?" Here are the results, along with a whole bunch of personal reader comments

"The things you own end up owning you."

-- Chuck Palahniuk, Fight Club

I'd love to hear from you.

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And remember...there's no better time to get organized, than to Get Organized Now!

Warmly,

Maria Gracia
GetOrganizedNow.com

How to Use This Newsletter

In this newsletter, you will find stories, ideas, inspiration, links and more to help you live a less stressful, more organized, more fulfilling life.

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Thank you for helping to spread the gift of organizing far and wide!

-- Maria

Maria Gracia,

Get Organized Now!

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