Letting Go One Holiday at a Time
If you’ve ever opened a holiday bin and felt both joy and overwhelm at the same time, you’re not alone. Those boxes hold memories, traditions, and moments from different seasons of life. They also quietly collect things that no longer fit who we are now. I’ve stood in that exact spot many times—both in my own home and with clients—and I know how tender those moments can feel.
A Lesson That Stayed With Me
Decades ago, my sister shared a simple idea that completely changed how I think about holiday decorating. She said you don’t have to put out every decoration every year. You can rotate them. Some pieces one year, different ones the next. Instantly, the holidays felt more curated, more special, and far less overwhelming. I loved that approach and happily followed it for years.
The Shift I Didn’t See Coming
Later, my sister retired, downsized, and moved. That’s when the deeper lesson revealed itself. She had carefully selected decorations each year—but she hadn’t let go of the ones that were never chosen. Over time, those untouched items added up. They weren’t her style anymore. Some were chipped. Some no longer held meaning. Life had changed, and the décor hadn’t caught up yet.
That’s when she shared the second part of her wisdom: pay attention to what you never take out. If it doesn’t feel special anymore, if it doesn’t fit your home or your season of life, it’s okay to let it go.
A Gentle Way Forward
Now, every time you open a holiday box, consider it an invitation—not a chore. Let go of the things you don’t remember buying. The pieces you don’t love. The ones that no longer feel like you. Donate what’s still useful. Release what’s broken without guilt. Do it a little at a time. That way, you’re never faced with decades of décor all at once when life asks you to downsize or shift.
This isn’t about perfection. It’s about making space—for ease, for joy, and for the decorations that truly make your heart smile.
Each season offers a small, kind opportunity to edit with intention. When your holiday décor reflects who you are now, decorating becomes lighter, calmer, and more meaningful. And every box you open with clarity is one less thing future-you has to carry.
Pinky Jackson is a Decluttering Specialist and Home Organizing Expert. If you need expert organizing help, don't hesitate to reach out. Pinky and her team would love to help you. Onsite Organizing services are available in the Louisville, KY area and Virtual Organizing services are offered for clients in other locations and for those who prefer to work online. Visit pinkyjackson.com to learn about our services and schedule a free assessment.
Photo: Peter Fazekas @peterfazekas
