What to keep, what to toss: a decision framework

Ask five questions, in order

• Have I used this in the last twelve months?
• If it vanished today, would I replace it?
• Do I own something else that does the same job better?
• Is it broken, expired or missing a part I will never source?
• Am I keeping it for the person I am, or the person I meant to become?

Sentimental items get different rules

Never sort sentimental items first — start with towels and Tupperware to warm up. When you reach the keepsakes, set a physical limit: one box per person. Photograph what you cannot store. The memory is not in the object.

The maybe pile

Allow one maybe box. Date it, tape it, store it out of sight. If it is unopened in six months, it leaves unopened.