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Ask yourself what each item represents for you. For instance, it could remind you of a special memory or might have been a gift from someone special. Think about why an item is important so you can decide if you’re ready to let it go. As an example, you might have kept old birthday cards that remind you how loved you are. You might also have heirlooms that your grandparents gave you or concert stubs that remind you how much fun you had with your friends. Don’t feel pressured to keep items that are stressing you out or making it hard for you to live the life you want. Ask yourself if each sentimental item you have makes you feel happy or not. Only keep items that bring you joy. For instance, let’s say a loved one gave you a decorative plate they hand painted. You might choose to keep this item because it makes you feel happy. On the other hand, you might let go of a flower bouquet that you caught at a wedding because it’s just gathering dust. Gifts are one of the hardest sentimental items to let go, but that doesn’t mean you have to let gifts clutter up your life. To help you release gifts, remind yourself that your friends and family likely want you to live a happy life. If a gift isn’t serving you, give it away or sell it. Additionally, keep in mind that the person who gave you the gift likely wants it to be used and enjoyed. If you aren’t using a gifted item, give it to someone who will. It may be easier to let items go if you recognize that they aren’t helping you live the life you want. When you’re evaluating an item, consider if you ever use the item or currently display it as a decoration. If it’s not something you use or need, let it go so it’s not becoming clutter. As an example, let’s say you have a stack of drawings that your child made. These can be super hard to get rid of, but it may be easier if you pick 1 to display and let the others go. This way you can remember their drawings every day without having the excess clutter. If you’re a very sentimental person, it might be hard to tell what’s important and what isn’t. Talking to someone who isn’t sentimental may help you get perspective on an item. Ask for help with difficult items if you’re having trouble letting things go.  For instance, you might ask your best friend to help you sort items. If you can’t find someone to come over and help, snap a photo and text it to someone you trust. Ask, “Should I keep this item or let it go? It’s been stored at the back of my closet.” It’s easier to pick out what you do want versus what you want to let go. Focus on identifying the items that you want to keep. Then, donate or give away all of the remaining items. This will help you feel like you’re creating a life that you love rather than letting go of things that are important to you. If you feel obligated to keep something, it's probably best to just let it go. Only keep items you truly want.
Determine why you’ve been keeping each item. Decide if an item brings you happiness. Ask yourself if the giver of a gift would want you burdened. Identify how this item fits into your daily life. Get a second opinion from someone who isn’t sentimental. Pick your most cherished items to keep but let the rest go.