savvy talks: 5 savvy tips for letting go of clutter (without the guilt)
May is moving season in Chicago—and whether you’re packing, unpacking, downsizing, or just trying to tame the chaos in your closet, chances are you’ve run into an unexpected emotion: OVERWHELM!
Letting go of stuff isn’t just about making space in your home—it’s about releasing old versions of yourself. That’s what I recently talked about on WGN with Bob Sirott, and I want to share it with you too.
Because the truth is:
Putting things in storage feels like a solution, but it’s actually emotional procrastination.
Here are 5 savvy ways to let go of the things that no longer serve you—and feel lighter, freer, and more in control because of it.
1. Ask Future-You, Not Past-You
Most of us ask, “Did I use this last year?”
But a better question is, “Will I want this in my life next year?”
If an item doesn’t support the version of you you’re becoming, it’s time to bless it and release it.
2. Storage is a Last Resort, Not a Plan
Renting a storage unit might feel like a good stopgap—but let’s be honest: if you don’t have a clear reason to retrieve it within 6 months, you probably don’t need it.
Out of sight almost always turns into out of life. And eventually… into expensive clutter.
3. Keep the Story, Not the Stuff
It’s okay to be sentimental—but you don’t have to keep everything to keep the memories.
Take a photo. Write the memory down. Pass the item along.
You’ll still have the part that really matters.
4. Give It a Good Second Life
Letting go is easier when you know your things will be appreciated elsewhere.
Donate to a women’s shelter, a teacher, a veteran’s group, or a young friend starting out.
Passing something on with purpose brings peace—and helps someone else at the same time.
5. Make Space to Make Space
Decluttering isn’t just about things. Try clearing a surface. A closet. A calendar slot.
It’s all connected.
When your home breathes, so do you.
Final Thought:
Letting go of stuff doesn’t mean letting go of who you are. It means making room for who you’re becoming.
If this resonates with you, I hope you’ll share it with a friend who’s in the thick of it too.
And if you're not already getting my weekly savvy tips, recipes, and real-life inspiration, you can join us here.
Let’s lighten the load—together.
Listen to the talk:
Originally aired on 05/16/25 for WGN Radio 720.