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Summary:

Struggling to make decluttering decisions? You’re not alone. In this episode, Heather explores why so many of us need time to process before letting things go and why that pause is not procrastination. You’ll learn how to work with your brain rather than against it, how to avoid “maybe piles,” and how irritation and repetition can actually help you make calmer, more confident decluttering choices that stick.

Chapters:

00:00 – Welcome and introduction
Heather explains why this topic matters, especially for neurodivergent listeners who often feel pressure to make quick decisions.

01:00 – Why your brain needs processing time
How emotional attachment, fear of regret and decision fatigue affect decluttering.

02:30 – The danger of forced decisions
Why rushing to decide often leads to guilt, panic or keeping everything.

03:45 – How to pause without procrastinating
The difference between productive processing and avoidance.

05:00 – Keep similar items together (and skip the maybe pile)
How to give yourself time without creating another job you’ll avoid.

07:00 – The irritation stage
Why noticing annoyance or relief around your stuff gives you useful data for next time.

08:30 – A story about the pan lid
Heather shares a client example that shows how clarity often comes naturally over time.

10:00 – Building trust in your own decisions
How slow processing helps you rebuild confidence and reduce guilt.

11:30 – Letting go with kindness
Recognising when you’ve processed enough and can finally say goodbye to an item without regret.

13:00 – Final thoughts and permission to pause
Heather wraps up with encouragement to go at your own pace and trust that processing time is progress.

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