You can’t take it with you
Should we hold on to the things we’ve acquired, or just give everything away now?
Over the course of a lifetime, many of us accumulate a surprising amount of stuff. Some of it is collected with purpose — mementoes, décor, furniture, gadgets — while other things seem to appear.
Whether by conscious design or the slow drift of time, possessions pile up around us, turning our homes into storage units of sentiment.
But how much of it do we truly need?
There is a growing cultural shift toward minimalism and intentional living, spurred on by a recognition that material goods don’t necessarily equate to happiness.
Marie Kondo asked us to consider whether physical things “sparked joy”.
A cupboard full of knick-knacks or a garage overflowing with “maybes” may offer comfort for some, but for others, it becomes a burden — physically, mentally, and emotionally. As we age, these possessions may feel less like treasures and more like anchors.
The question then arises: should we hold on, or should we let go?
Downsizing is not only practical but often liberating. Letting go of items that no longer serve a purpose, or never did, can create space, clarity and even joy.
The process isn’t about becoming spartan, but rather about choosing what adds value to our lives. If something doesn’t make you happy, isn’t useful, or hasn’t been touched in years, perhaps it’s time to release it.
Moreover, there’s a compelling case for giving things away while we are still alive rather than burdening somebody to clear it all out after we’re gone. If we wouldn’t want to dig through a deceased relative’s clutter, should we expect others to do so for us?
Why not offer family heirlooms, beloved books, or cherished kitchenware to friends, relatives or neighbours who will use and appreciate them? It can be a deeply satisfying act of connection.
Ultimately, the saying holds true: you can’t take it with you. What remains behind is either a gift or a task. Choosing which, while we still can, may be one of the best decisions we ever make.
Your timing is impeccable Brett. Having just sold our home, I've discovered years of accumulated stuff that at the time, seemed essential, so much so, that they're all covered in dust! I agree with you, I too don't want someone else to have to deal with my stuff when I'm gone, and the thought of a smaller house with fewer things, is freeing and mighty appealing.