There is power in a photograph.
How often have you viewed an image and immediately been transported back to the time you were right there? Right back to the moment when you snapped the image, with the sights and sounds and emotions right there with you. The joy on the face of a loved one, the first steps of an incredible hike, the first moments with your child.
Now imagine utilizing that same power to simplify your life. Research shows that a photograph has the same power to bring you the emotion of the actual event.
“Researchers found that people are more willing to give away items of sentimental value if they’re able to take a photo of them first. Because, after all, it’s not the object you’re holding onto. It’s the memory associated with it.” (blog posting from https://www.simplemost.com/scientists-come-way-help-declutter-home)
Having the opportunity to preserve the memory is what can really help let go of the item itself. Think of the trophy wall, or the boxes of shells from your first trip to the Keys, or the 82 beer bottles from all the different stouts you have enjoyed from microbreweries….these are potentially great items for preserving the memory through photographs.
Need more inspiration?
Consider:
- https://www.cnn.com/2017/07/17/health/photograph-clutter-partner/index.html
- https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20190515-can-decluttering-your-house-really-spark-joy
- https://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/sc-fam-0616-deciphering-declutter-20150609-story.html
How about displaying those photos? Here are some great sources of inspiration:
- https://www.buzzfeed.com/maitlandquitmeyer/unique-photo-display-ideas-that-will-bring-your-memories
- Excellent option to swap out that trophy wall or for that fun place in the basement where everyone gathers during the holidays – display your memories proudly and as great conversation pieces: https://amzn.to/2BcXNKG
- https://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=fun%20photo%20displays&rs=typed&term_meta[]=fun%7Ctyped&term_meta[]=photo%7Ctyped&term_meta[]=displays%7Ctyped
- More storage ideas for the whole house: Home Storage Ideas