Why We Don’t Get Rid of Stuff
(And Why Rightsizing Might Be the Best Solution Yet)
There are real psychological and physiological reasons we accumulate more than we need—but none that can’t be overcome with the right mindset, support, and strategy.
Mass consumerism arguably began in 1872 with the Montgomery Ward catalog, making it possible to order almost anything by mail. Since then, the average home size has nearly tripled—from 983 to 2,532 square feet—yet 25% of two-car garages can’t fit a single car. Once basements, closets, and attics are full, 11% of households spend nearly $100/month on offsite storage.
It’s no surprise that cluttered homes are now linked to higher stress, poor sleep, and even binge eating. And a 2015 study by the National Association of Professional Organizers revealed that more than half of us feel overwhelmed by the state of our homes—but most have no idea what to do about it.
How We Got Here
In early North America, if the general store didn’t carry it, you simply went without. Then came catalog shopping, department stores, and eventually credit cards in the 1960s and ’70s. "Buy now, pay later" became the norm.
Today’s average household owns 138 pieces of clothing and 19 pairs of shoes. With online shopping and next-day delivery, the stuff just keeps coming—and it’s easier than ever to accumulate without realizing the long-term cost.
Why We Keep Buying
In prehistoric times, possessions helped us survive. Today, the brain still releases dopamine when we buy something, reinforcing a reward cycle that’s no longer about survival—but convenience and impulse. Unfortunately, this short-term “shopper’s high” wears off quickly, pushing us to seek the next hit.
Why We Can’t Let Go
Many of us feel emotionally tied to our belongings. Our stuff can feel like part of our identity, and letting go can feel like losing a piece of ourselves. Whether it’s sentimentality or the common “I might need it someday” excuse, clutter often reflects a deeper struggle. And even when we’re ready to let go, the sheer volume of stuff and lack of time or energy can make decluttering feel overwhelming.
Life is busy, and our homes should support us—not stress us out. Decluttering isn’t about achieving a picture-perfect home; it’s about creating a space that gives you room to breathe, think clearly, and truly enjoy life. When you clear physical clutter, you're also making space mentally and emotionally. It’s not just about your home—it’s about your life.
But real, lasting change doesn’t happen in a whirlwind of chaos. It starts with small, intentional steps. Decluttering in manageable chunks builds the kind of sustainable habits that actually stick. Begin with just one drawer. Celebrate that win. Then move on to the next.
With each small success, you’re not just clearing a shelf—you’re building momentum toward a lighter, freer life.
Why Rightsizing Works
This is where rightsizing makes all the difference. Unlike decluttering alone, rightsizing is a mindset shift—it’s about aligning your home and belongings with the life you want to live now.
Rightsizing helps you:
- Let go of what's no longer serving you
- Create a home that’s easier to maintain and more comfortable
- Focus on what you truly need, love, and use
- Make space for freedom, connection, and peace of mind
Whether you're preparing for retirement, planning a move, or simply ready to simplify, our team can guide you every step of the way.
At The Procenko Group, our mission is to help people find the perfect home, rightsize their belongings, and achieve maximum profit on their home sale—with as little disruption to their life as possible.
We offer a done-for-you rightsizing solution that includes trusted professionals to help with decluttering, packing, moving, settling into your new home, and preparing your current home for sale. We understand the emotional and practical challenges of this transition—and we’re here to make it easier.
Ready to Begin?
Start small. Take one box, one shelf, or one corner of a closet. Ask yourself: Is this item meaningful or useful to me right now. If not, let it go.
And if you’re ready for expert help, book a complimentary rightsizing consultation with our team. Together, we’ll explore your goals, assess your needs, and create a personalized plan that supports your next chapter.
Because the best journeys begin with less baggage—and a trusted guide by your side.