I always keep too much stuff. I think it's because I attach all the stuff I own to memories and I'm afraid to throw them away because it's like trashing a happy memory. Those items have sentimental value, sometimes unnecessary. I also keep stuff because I think maybe someday I'll need it, and then most times when I get rid of something I end up needing it later on (probably because I make up a reason for needing it) so I feel guilty for throwing it away. I just can't stand getting rid of things that I don't need and old papers and stuff. I feel regret. Help knock some sense into me and convince me on why or how I should stop being a packrat!
2006-11-28 12:45:45 · 5 answers · asked by Alice 2 in Social Science ➔ Psychology
I married an un-packrat. This has helped tremendously. I also got tired of having too much stuff around. You have to be realistic, if you haven't needed it in a year, throw it away.
2006-11-28 12:49:29 · answer #1 · answered by Julie 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you're a pack rat and collect everything you see try and collect something in particular. Have a huge garage/ yard sale to get rid of the stuff you need an put a trustworthy friend in charge of it. Then leave until the sale is over, so then you are not tempted to make excuses to put stuff back into your home. Then find a hobbie of something to collect to preoccupy yourself. Also plan your shopping trips and don't go to store where you know you are going to want to buy something. Go to a store you hate, this way you'll leave the store faster and buy only what you need.I hope I helped in some way. =)
2006-11-28 21:07:22 · answer #2 · answered by yomonkeysdaddy 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ashley:
Realize this, no one can realistically take from you your memories, good or bad. If you really are looking for a solution then consider being realistic when it comes to hording things. After all how much could you pack on your back in the event you had to move quickly. Surly you might know of someone who served our country in Afghanistan or Iraq. I am confident that they could offer you some really good pointers.
2006-11-28 20:59:43 · answer #3 · answered by Fresh choice 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you have the sense already in you. but you are a hoarder. it is an illness that you will need a counselor to help fix. sometimes it can be dealt with in just a few visits. if money is an issue..like it would be with me..then go to your community counseling center. they often have free or reduced rate sessions for those who meet the financial requirements. keeping things that are special to you is alright. but making up reasons for keeping things that you may or may not need in the future can be destructive to close relationships. i urge you to talk with someone who can assist you with how to break the habit. good luck!
2006-11-28 20:51:10 · answer #4 · answered by beckdawgydawg 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
throw stuff away!!! memorabilia should be kept. I have a hope chest that I keep that stuff .
2006-11-28 21:14:05 · answer #5 · answered by choco-vanilla 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋