Do You Own Your Stuff or Does Your Stuff Own You?

...one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." -- Luke 12:15

An interview with Clean Sweep's Peter Walsh:

Peter Walsh is an organizational giant. His books It’s All Too Much! and How to Organize Just About Everything, his television show Clean Sweep on TLC, and his radio show every Friday on XM Satellite Radio (XM156) inspire people to live uncluttered lives. Walsh is an essential resource for anyone looking to bring more order and less chaos into their world, and he is a bit of a hero in these parts.

Here's something Peter said in the interview that I particularly liked:

Clutter comes in many forms and the reasons why people hold onto it is similarly complex. There are two main types of clutter: Memory Clutter – which reminds one of an important person, or achievement or event from the past – and I-Might-Need-It-One-Day Clutter – this is the stuff held onto in preparation for all possible futures that one might encounter.

Keeping things from the past or sensible planning for the future are great things – it’s when the objects take over that there’s a problem. With many of the people I encounter, their primary relationship is with their stuff. Instead of owning their stuff, their stuff owns them. This clearly is not only unhealthy but also a real stumbling block to happiness and a fulfilling life. If your stuff is causing problems in your life or relationships it’s time to do something about it!

When I lived in Orlando, I did a very good job of living clutter-free. (I downsized to only two pick-up truck loads of stuff when I moved back to Virginia.) Since coming back to school, I seem to struggle with clutter a bit more. I'm not sure if that's because I'm living in a smaller space, have more mental distractions, less time to sort through things, or if it's something else? (I deal with more papers now than ever before.) I know I am usually happier when I have less clutter and less stuff. Not only that, but getting rid of stuff makes your space look bigger too.

Now if you'll excuse me while I go clean my room...