Why do we keep things we will probably never use again?
There is probably a drawer in every home that nobody is allowed to touch without permission. It contains a little bit of everything: old phone chargers, batteries that may or may not work, takeaway menus, instruction manuals for appliances we no longer own, and random keys nobody can identify. Then there is the wardrobe. The dress you wore once to a wedding five years ago, the jeans you are…
Every home seems to have a drawer or closet filled with items that we doubt we'll ever use again. From old phone chargers and random keys to seldom-worn items like outdated dresses and keys we can't identify, these possessions clutter our spaces. The motivation behind keeping such items is multifaceted. Some hold sentimental value, reminding us of past events, people, or experiences.
These memories can be comforting, evoking nostalgia that mere objects can't replicate. Others believe they may find utility in the future, unaware that the likelihood of such a scenario is often slim.
In the UAE, where gatherings and celebrations are frequent, these unused items often find a permanent residence in storage areas. Fancy serving trays used during Ramadan or Eid, wedding gift boxes, extra coffee cups, and vast quantities of shopping bags all contribute to the growing mountain of unnecessary belongings. There's also the dilemma of waste.
Discarding something that seems functional can feel wasteful, especially if it was once cherished. Yet, the decision to hold onto an item is not always about practicality alone. We might cling to objects tied to past selves – old university notes, quirky clothing, or remnants of fleeting hobbies. These items serve as tangible reminders of who we were, places we've been, and moments we've experienced, offering a sense of continuity.
Yet, there comes a time when it's essential to declutter these remnants of the past. Asking ourselves whether we would purchase these items anew can be a decisive tool. If the answer is no, it might be time to reconsider their place in our lives. Donating clothes that no longer fit, recycling electronic waste responsibly, and sharing useful items with those in need are viable alternatives.
Likewise, retaining sentimental possessions that genuinely bring joy is acceptable. The objective isn't to create an empty home, but to curate spaces that house objects we truly use, appreciate, and cherish. The next time you find yourself staring at a drawer full of unidentified cables, consider whether they serve a purpose or merely occupy space.
Written by urgent.news from Gulf News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
