Pile of casual clothes on a wooden floor in a minimalistic room.

7 Things You Keep That Show You Care More About Stuff Than Peace

Ever notice how some people have a knack for turning their homes into cozy sanctuaries, while others seem to be more like hoarding museums? It’s fascinating! It often comes down to what we choose to keep around us.

Sure, we all have our treasures, but sometimes those “treasures” can distract us from the calm and peace we crave. Let’s chat about seven things you might be holding onto that show you care more about stuff than serenity.

A red iron placed beside a stack of colorful clothes on an ironing board indoors.
Photo by Jonathan Borba

1. Old Clothes You’ll Never Wear Again

Ah, the infamous wardrobe of “one day.” You know the one—packed with clothes from five years ago that you swear you’ll fit back into. Spoiler alert: that day may never come. Holding onto those pieces not only clutters your space but also weighs down your mind. Imagine how freeing it’d feel to let go of that skinny jeans guilt! You could replace them with that flowy dress you’ve been eyeing.

2. Sentimental Items That No Longer Spark Joy

We all have that box of “memories” tucked in the attic or basement, right? Sometimes these items bring a smile, but often they just remind us of what used to be. If you’re hoarding things like rusty trophies or dried-up bouquets, it might be time for a little Marie Kondo magic. Keep the things that make you truly happy, and don’t be afraid to let go of the rest. Your heart deserves to be light, not burdened!

3. Broken Stuff You’re “Going to Fix”

How many broken items do you have sitting around, waiting for you to get your DIY game on? We’re talking about that lamp with the missing shade, the bike with a flat tire, or the chair with a wobbly leg. Each of these relics takes up space—not just physically, but mentally too. Instead of letting them linger like unwanted guests, why not embrace the idea of “out with the old”? You’ll feel so much better with a clear space and a clear mind.

4. Books You’ll “Get to” Eventually

Books are fantastic, but let’s be honest—how many of them are gathering dust on your shelf? If you’ve got a stack of “to-read” books that’s taller than your coffee table, it might be time to reconsider. Rather than hanging onto them like trophies of ambition, why not pass them along to someone who’ll actually read them? A clutter-free space can lead to a clutter-free mind. Plus, you might inspire a friend to dive into a new adventure!

5> Kitchen Gadgets You’ve Used Once

Have you ever bought a fancy kitchen gadget thinking it’d revolutionize your cooking? Only to find it collecting dust in the back of the cabinet? You’re not alone! From avocado slicers to spiralizers, these one-hit wonders often take up valuable real estate in your kitchen. If you’re not using them regularly, it might be time to say goodbye. After all, who needs a dozen gadgets when a good old-fashioned knife will do the trick?

6. Mementos from Relationships That Aren’t Yours Anymore

We’ve all got that ex who left behind more than just memories. Whether it’s an old love letter or a gift that once meant something, holding onto those items can keep you stuck in the past. It’s like carrying around a backpack full of stones. Letting go of these mementos can free you to embrace the present—and who knows what new adventures are waiting just around the corner?

7. Digital Clutter That’s Out of Control

Let’s not forget about the virtual clutter! Your phone is probably bursting with apps you haven’t touched in months, and your email inbox is a never-ending scroll of unread messages. All this digital noise can be just as draining as physical clutter. Set aside some time to declutter your devices. Unsubscribe from those pesky newsletters and delete the apps you never use. You’ll feel lighter, and your digital world will be so much more peaceful!

Finding Your Peace

At the end of the day, peace and serenity come from simplifying our lives and letting go of what no longer serves us. It’s about creating a space—both physically and mentally—that allows for relaxation and joy. So, take a good look around you. What’s weighing you down? Embrace the freedom that comes from letting things go, and you might just find that inner peace you’ve been