“Things That Bring You Joy!”

Marie Kondo might have made this organizing tip popular, but it’s one that many other professional organizers believe as well. They encourage clients to hold on to the things that bring them joy and are connected to a special memory.

And also things they use regularly. Unless, of course, they don’t mind parting with it.

A Lost Loved One’s Personal Items

A situation might arise where someone you love has died. Now you’re faced with what to keep and what to throw away.

In this case, professional organizers recommend waiting three months to a year before making any keep-or-donate decisions on extremely personal items, like their favorite pieces of clothing or little notes they may have left lying around.

On the other hand, if it’s been more than five years, you might need an outside perspective to help you let go of some items and the remorse you’re feeling about letting go.