It is always heartbreaking to lose a loved one and it can get even harder to let go of their possessions.
3 tips for letting go of a deceased’s possessions
Wait
It is not and has never been easy to know when to dispose of someone who has died personal belongings, but ultimately, this has to be done. Wait until you’re ready because your emotions are high and you are not in that mental space that will allow for rational decision-making. So, wait a little longer if you are not bound by outside forces to dispose of things.
Waiting means you will allow yourself time to process the loss. Remember too that trying to clear a house as quickly as possible can be physically and mentally demanding and may rob you of appreciating treasured memories surrounding the items. Waiting can and will help with the grieving process it-self and you will give yourself time to absorb the emotional weight of the experience.
Consider repeat visits as breaking up your visits might give you the chance for a second look before the decision on what stays and what goes is made. Remember this is not just a de-cluttering exercise; it is closure. Do consider too, taking someone along with you as you may find it easier to manage emotionally if you have another friend or family member with you.
Record
Before you start clearing the house record items as this will reduce the likelihood that any items that someone may want, valuable or not, are not thrown out or given away. Make an actual check-list or take photographs. Taking photographs may jog memories slater and may help you if you have to give items away as you can always look at the pictures.
Be choosy about what you record and ask yourself whether you (or your nearest and dearest) are really going to need another photo of your loved one attending a wedding, singing at church or eating their favorite meal. If you are not choosy, you may end up with similar events eating up your storage space.
If you store things in boxes, these should be labelled with their eventual destination or purpose, such as the name of the family member they are going to, ‘for sale’ or ‘to donate.’
When it comes to donating items it is never going to be easy, but if you’re struggling after a death, your charitable gesture may at least provide some comfort that the belongings are going to a worthy cause.
Value
Valuing all possessions is important ahead of the actual clearing out so that everyone concerned can have this information. Or, before any family members remove items they say were nit valuable at all. In fact, as soon as you can, you might want to advise anyone wishing to take items to hold on for a while.
It is advisable too, to get someone to join you when you list or photograph items. You do not want to be accused of excluding stuff at the end of the day. This valuing is very important too if you have been elected as an administrator of the deceased’s estate.
