Emotional Decluttering
Those who know me well know that one of the things that drives me crazy is clutter. I’m known for clearing things out, and I get great satisfaction from throwing away what no longer serves a purpose. My family would probably say I go overboard in this area, but I’m not so sure. Clutter serves no real use.
The same is true of emotional clutter, except it’s far more damaging. Emotional clutter can slowly destroy our relationships with the people we care about most.
It shows up in the form of unresolved hurt, disappointments, unrealistic expectations, and quiet resentment. It’s the habit of letting the past define the present and dictate the future. Research tells us that 40–50% of people are carrying some form of destructive emotional clutter.
One way emotional clutter takes hold is when we try to own things that aren’t ours. Trying to carry someone else’s reactions or behavior is exhausting…and it doesn’t work. Another sign is when we react to the past instead of responding to what’s happening in the present. This leads to overreactions, misreading situations, and deepening disconnection.
And sometimes we hold on to things simply because they feel familiar. We convince ourselves that letting go means excusing what happened—but that’s not true.
Letting go doesn’t mean condoning. It means choosing freedom over frustration.
Take a minute to check out our latest Relationshifts podcast episode, where we unpack these emotional clutter traps and talk about practical, healthy ways to move forward with clarity and peace.
Emotional clutter doesn’t leave on its own. It takes intention, honesty, and courage. When we choose to shift from holding on to what’s harmful to letting go, we’ll see our lives and relationships begin to heal.
Decluttering is a powerful way to make a difference.
Larry
