Cover Lessting starts with memories. (Photo: Nicola Barts via Pexels)
Lessting starts with memories. (Photo: Nicola Barts via Pexels)
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Struggling to part with sentimental items? Lessting focuses on valuing memories rather than physical possessions, offering a compassionate approach to decluttering
At the start of every year, various methods emerge to help individuals manage their mounting possessions for a more harmonious living space. But like many resolutions, decluttering pledges often flat-line after a few weeks. These clean-up methods fail because they focus on short-term fixes rather than long-term changes. The initial excitement usually leads to being overwhelmed and burnt out—and the emotional attachment supersedes the material promises.
The latest of these decluttering traditions, ‘lessting’, emphasises memories over mementos. It encourages individuals to cherish the experiences associated with items rather than the physical objects themselves. It supposedly makes decluttering easier for those who can’t part with their belongings for sentimental reasons.
Also read: From Japan’s KonMari to Sweden’s ‘Death Cleaning’: Decluttering philosophies from different cultures
How is lessting different from other decluttering approaches?
Above Like many other streamlining philosophies, lessting is about having less and enjoying more. (Photo: Cottonbro Studio via Pexels)
Like many other streamlining philosophies, lessting is about having less and enjoying more. (Photo: Cottonbro Studio via Pexels)
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While Marie Kondo’s KonMari method espouses keeping items that “spark joy” and Danshari means refusing, disposing and separating from unnecessary possessions, lessting offers a different stance. It centres on the emotional attachment to items, guiding individuals to appreciate the memories associated with possessions without feeling compelled to retain the physical objects.
It's the opposite of nesting, a term that was big in the ’80s and ’90s. If nesting refers to creating a comfortable, cosy and organised home environment for a particular milestone, like giving birth, lessting entails simplifying possessions to create a more minimalist and stress-free environment.
See more: Why can’t Gen Z quit fast fashion?
Gen X, who grew up during the advent of nesting, are taking to lessting like fish to water. As this generation enters their 40s and 50s, they’re at a point in life where they reflect on what truly matters. This stage often prompts a desire for less clutter, fewer distractions and more intentional living. Gen X are also dealing with the realities of empty nesting or downsizing as children leave home, which makes simplifying possessions more appealing.
Economically speaking, having grown up during an economic boom, Gen X witnessed the rise of consumerism, materialism and an increasingly throwaway culture. The constant pressure to buy and accumulate things has led some to reject excess.
Don't miss: 7 stress-free tips to declutter your home during the New Year
Best tips to practise lessting
Above According to the lessting approach, taking photos of your possessions can help you maintain the memory but not the item. (Photo: Ron Lach via Pexels)
According to the lessting approach, taking photos of your possessions can help you maintain the memory but not the item. (Photo: Ron Lach via Pexels)
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1. Reflect on the memory
Before deciding to keep an item, take a moment to recall the memory it represents. Ask yourself if the memory can be cherished without the physical object.
2. Digitise sentimental items
Consider taking photographs of items that hold sentimental value. This allows you to preserve the memory without retaining the physical object.
3. Create a memory journal
Document the stories and emotions associated with sentimental items in a journal. This practice helps in honouring the memory while letting go of the item.
4. Set boundaries
Allocate a specific space for sentimental items you choose to keep. Once the space is full, reassess and decide which items can be let go to make room for new memories.
5. Practice gratitude
Focus on appreciating the experiences and people associated with the items, rather than the possessions themselves. This shift in perspective can make it easier to release physical objects.
Also read: How writing gratitude letters can improve your life and career
Experts suggest lessting can be particularly effective for individuals who find traditional decluttering methods challenging due to emotional attachments. By focusing on the value of memories over physical possessions, lessting provides a compassionate approach to decluttering, allowing individuals to celebrate their past while creating a more organised living environment in the present.
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