Storage Wars….with Yourself?

By Lisa Janusz

Some people think that Feng Shui consultants are against storage. Not true. We know it’s useful and necessary (like seasonal decor). The key is knowing – and using – what you have so that your time, energy, space – and possibly money – isn’t being directed to things of no value to you. This is especially important for people who are paying for off-site storage. You are keeping your energy extended with your things, so they need to be important.

Since your space reflects your life, a build-up of storage in your basement (the past), attic (the future) or garage (where your car should live), can be a message to you.

Here are 5 tips for dealing with storage situations:

1. Use it or release it. Be realistic with yourself on whether you really use the item.
   • Don’t keep things out of guilt (it was a present!) or sentimentality (it was my grandmother’s!). There is someone out there who will give it new energy by being thrilled to use it.
   • Don’t keep things for “someday.” If you are saving something for later, think about the timing. If it will be happening within a couple of years, that might make sense. But if it’s been over 5 years or is that far away, then think about it carefully. Will you really want those hand-me-downs in your new dream house? Will your kids want them when they go off to college or have a house of their own?
2. Know it. Boxes should be labeled with what is in them. If you have a bunch of mystery boxes, then either go through them to see what is in there OR simply label them with the date. If you don’t use it within 6 months – don’t even take another look. Assume you don’t need it and let it go.
3. Access it. Keep things organized using whatever system works for you. Don’t keep things that are so buried they are too much trouble to reach.
4. Love it. Don’t store things that “will do.” If you are going to spend time and energy storing it, focus on items that have meaning and bring you joy.
5. Release it. This is a hard one for us all (yes, me too!). Really take a look and think, “how long has it been since I’ve used this?” Even if you still like it, if you haven’t used it in years, let it go. Give it new life.

Remember, you are investing your energy in all the things that you own/are surrounded by (even if they are “off-site”). It’s important to make sure that they are supporting you. Take another look and maybe make some hard decisions. Opening up and clearing out can only benefit you. Each time we release, we allow – opportunities, health, relationships and more.