Choose between what you like and what you like

Just as much organizing wisdom is born during my Team Organize sessions as is shared during my in-person sessions.  I have a long list of a-ha moments that I'll continue to share here. A recent one was when a Team Organize member said that she's learning that part of the decluttering process is "choosing between what I like and what I like." What a brilliant observation. It stopped me in my tracks and I had her repeat it:

Sometimes you have to choose between what you like and what you like.

The organizing process is often about filtering out what you don't like from what you do like. But, if you've ever felt the agony of parting with something you still like, maybe the list below will help. Here's what choosing between what you like and what you like looks like:

• One thing in one thing out. This woman remembered my story of buying 3 pairs of pants and then letting 3 go. I liked my old pants so much that they were worn out. Having just bought 3 new pairs that served the same purpose, they had to go.

• What you don't use vs. what you do use. You might like them both, but let's keep what we like and use.

• Something you spent good money on even though the tags have been on for years. You can still like it... and regret buying it.

• Special memorabilia vs. priceless memorabilia. You kept it because you like it, but you don't have to keep it forever. If you are buried in memories, keep only what's most precious.

• Too many useful items when one will suffice. For example, do you have 5 chef's knives that you like but only use one favorite?

Do you need to decide between what you like and what you like? Have you ever let go of something you liked and lived to tell about it? Please share in the comments!