I grew up stepping over stacks of bags on the floor. I squeezed past boxes in the hallway. I wondered if we’d ever have space to dance in our living room again. As a kid, this was just normal. As an adult, it’s become overwhelming.

I’m often embarrassed to invite friends over. For years I never had allergies living with the clutter. I’ve set up a barbell for strength training in the basement. Now my eyes itch and water every time I work out. It feels like I have to rub them raw. Maybe it’s the invisible mold growing between the boxes or maybe it’s the pet dander that’s impossible to reach. Even just trying to get to the laundry room or treadmill through the occupied dance floor drains my motivation.

Why It’s Hard to Let Go

It’s not easy when family members struggle to let go of things. I understand the logic behind it. We immigrated to Canada when I was ten years of age. In our home country, life was fun and surrounded by extended family. Still, my parents wanted us to have the freedom and opportunities Canada offer.

We started out in an apartment, then moved into a house with my aunt renting a room. For a few years, everything felt spacious. My parents hosted gatherings. They showed off our two common rooms, garden, and basement mini-bar. We also have a music room and even a mirrored dance floor. But as time passed, clothes began piling up. We’re avid thrift-shoppers, so we accumulate items quickly. It’s not always about sentimentality but about purpose. And truth be told, my mom almost always has what I need for any emergency occasion. Moreover, my aunt regularly ships boxes back to our home town. It’s filled with accessories for her house or gifts for relatives. Those bags and boxes sit for months, waiting to be sent overseas.

The Turning Point

I’m done being embarrassed. It’s always our friends hosting us while we stay the forever-guests. Now that I’m older, I want to welcome my friends into a home I’m proud of. And my allergic reaction during workouts has been a literal eye-opener. It’s time to reclaim our space.

Why I Started Clutter Friendly

This blog is my personal journey to find realistic decluttering solutions and share them with others. I’ll explore:

• Affordable, effective organizing products to make small spaces feel bigger.
• Furniture ideas for hidden storage and multi-purpose rooms.
• Decluttering tips for families who can’t easily throw things away.
• Empathy-based strategies for living with loved ones who hoard.

You are not alone if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the stuff in your home. The same goes for the stuff your loved ones can’t part with. Subscribe to Clutter Friendly and let’s create calmer, healthier spaces together.