#151 An amnesty on discarding guilt - is it possible? With Dr Jan Eppingstall

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Podcast show notes, links and transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ 

Dr Jan Eppingstall has had an idea, and it is as revolutionary as it is terrifying. We talk about it!

• Shifting focus from individual items to the bigger picture
• Creating a guilt-free zone for a limited time to honour values and experience more joy and fun in the future
• Putting aside certain values temporarily to create better conditions for the future
• Introduction of the concept of "household equilibrium"
• Understanding the emotional attachment to possessions based on lived experiences
• Behavioural and Emotional Aspects of Discarding Items
• Reluctance to discard out-of-date food due to guilt and fear of waste
• Emotional connection to possessions and the importance of using them
• Encouraging the usage and enjoyment of possessions
• Trauma-focused approach to discarding clutter
• Coping with the guilt and shame around wastefulness
• Making difficult decisions about discarding items
• Exposure to letting go and small, less risky decluttering tasks
• Letting go of controlling outcomes and focusing on wellbeing over perfect disposal
• Starting with low-risk categories when decluttering, such as wrapping paper
• Prove that terrible things do not happen when decluttering
• The importance of proportionality in the decluttering process
• Children's Belongings and Autonomy in Decluttering
• Clear guidelines for disposing of belongings that are not yours
• Contacting owners to collect items, especially for children's belongings
• Revisiting keepsakes periodically to reassess their importance
• Respecting children's decisions about their belongings
• Navigating the decluttering process with understanding and sensitivity
• Creating a Safe and Comfortable Living Environment
• Implementing an amnesty on existing rules and guidelines
• Suspending the acquisition of new items to keep the space in equilibrium
• Allowing space for new interests and hobbies to enter one's life without guilt
• Desire for perfection leads to unnecessary clutter.
• Temporary pause for a more balanced life.
• Stay safe and open to new experiences.
• Encouraging use of gorgeous clothes in daily life.
• Helping people cope with guilt and clutter to prioritise their well-being.
• Desire for perfection in decision making and finding balance.
• Some people value frugality but need to let go sometimes.
• Focus on physical safety, declutter for new hobbies, no guilt.
• Facing fears leads to growth and relief from guilt.
• Recommendation to limit exposure to items and practice letting go to avoid regret.
• Encourage using and enjoying clothes, shoes.
• Expressing love for a cherished mug.