Oct/Nov 2025 Aspire Magazine Full Issue | Page 35

Why Emotions Arise During Decluttering
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WISDOM & SELF-GROWTH
As we sift through them, emotions naturally rise. And that’ s okay. These feelings are not signs of failure; they are signposts guiding us toward deeper self-understanding.

Why Emotions Arise During Decluttering

The things we own are more than just objects; they are markers and evidence of our stories. A scarf might remind you of a trip you took in your twenties. A book might recall a friendship that shaped who you are today. A kitchen gadget might whisper of aspirations you never fully pursued, like the gourmet cook you imagined becoming.
From a neuroscience perspective, our brains are wired to resist change and loss. This resistance is part of what researchers call loss aversion. Loss aversion happens when the pain of losing something feels stronger than the joy of gaining something new.
Even positive change can stir uncertainty, making a cleared closet or a donated box feel surprisingly unsettling. This is why

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