Stumbling Block: Gifts

Unwanted gifts are a stumbling block for just about everyone trying to clear clutter. Here’s what I tell my clients: the purpose of a gift really is to be an outward symbol of someone’s affection for you and their desire to give something to you. Once you’ve received the gift, it’s accomplished its job. It has succeeded as a gift. If the gift isn’t useful or doesn’t suit, then you can thank it and let it go spark joy for someone else. 

In the unlikely chance that the gift-giver demands to see their gift in use, then you can have a response prepared: “Mom, you spark so much joy for me, but that sweater did not. It has gone to fulfill its sweater destiny with someone who is going to love it and wear it all the time.” If you can’t bear the thought of having this conversation, then make something up (it’s at the dry cleaners, a friend borrowed it, etc.) and move on. 

If you receive a gift that you do love, then lucky you! Remove any packaging or tags and put it to use right away. Things don’t last forever, styles and preferences change, and materials degrade over time. Spend out and use things now.