People assume that because I’m a professional organizer, my main goal is to make people get rid of everything they own.
But here’s the truth:
If you love it, use it, need it, or can genuinely justify keeping it. I’m not going to argue with you, but I will let you know when I think you have an excess of an item. My job isn’t to strip you of your things. My role is to help you get clarity on what’s serving you… and what’s just taking up space.
I don’t pressure people, I guide them.
Sometimes my clients hesitate, and that hesitation tells me there’s guilt behind the decision to letting go. It might be a look, a sigh, or even a little laugh. And then the deep dive happens, I’ll gently ask:
“Do you actually want to keep this… or do you feel like you should?”
And that opens up a deeper conversation. Because here’s what usually comes out:
- “But I paid good money and haven’t even used it yet.”
- “My uncle John gave this to me, and he’d roll over in his grave if I let this go.”
- “It feels wasteful to toss it, but I don’t think anyone else would want it.”
I read between the lines paying attention to body language, tone, and energy then reflecting back what I’m picking up. Often, clients are relieved to hear someone say what they’ve been thinking but couldn’t quite name. It gives them the confidence to finally let go.
Here’s the real secret:
Most people don’t want to feel like they’re throwing something away.
They want to know it’s going to be used, valued, and appreciated by someone else.
That’s why I go the extra mile to find the right home for their things. I don’t just drop everything off at one donation center and call it a day. It takes more effort my part, but it honors both the item and the person letting it go.
Want to see where I send donated items? Check out my Donation Resource List, it’s filled with local gems that actually want what you’re giving.
Not everything belongs in a thrift store
A lot of people think thrift stores take anything but that’s not true. They only accept what they can resell, and they’re limited by space and demand.
If you have:
- A few vintage rotary phones
- A non-working camera or film products (like an old Rolleiflex)
- A mink scarf stole from the 1950s
Guess what? None of these will made it into a thrift store. But they can have a second chance at life like on a stage at the local theater. Think Byrd theater, Henrico theater, or Ashland theater if you're in the Richmond, VA area. They can be used as props to help with storytelling, or they can help schools with their theater classes.
And this is why I put in the effort. Because the right donation destination can turn something forgotten into something meaningful again.
When it’s time we all rise and so do our things.
Here’s what I’ve learned:
When people are given a meaningful option, they usually step up. It’s easier to release items when we know they’re going to someone who truly needs or wants them.
This is especially helpful when you're helping a loved one downsize. A little research goes a long way. Find out who actually wants those sewing patterns, that VHS collection, or the box of costume jewelry. You’d be surprised where joy can be sparked again.
Many clients have even asked if I could personally take their items home and not because they want to unload, but because they trust me. And while my ethics code doesn’t allow me to accept gifts, I have bought a few items over the years to cherish them. Every time I use one, I think of that person. It’s a beautiful exchange.
Got a great donation resource?
Share it in the comments below! Tell us who they serve and where they’re located. Let’s build a guide that helps others release without guilt and give with joy.
P.S. A quick tip about trophies:
If your name is on it and you’re worried about privacy, you can easily remove the nameplate:
- Most are stickers that peel right off.
- Others can be popped off with a flathead screwdriver.
- If it’s screwed in, an eyeglass screwdriver usually does the trick.
After removing then donate, someone out there will use it.
Let's chat! Get on a clarity call with Humble Enhancement today for your professional home organizing needs.
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