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Tips to Overcome Compulsive Hoarding

Why do people hoard? What are the causes of compulsive hoarding or clutter hoarding behavior?

People amass things for different reasons. But when you look at all the explanations given, they carry the same messages except that they are expressed differently.

One of the main reasons is because there is an emotional attachment to the physical objects. Hoarders associate the objects with feelings of love, loss, grief, joy, appreciation and so on. These things are close to their hearts. And they cannot see themselves reducing the clutter by parting from the junk because they don't want to feel guilty.

Another reason why many people find it difficult to get rid of clutter is because of fear. They might have been brought up in an atmosphere of lack. They don't want to have to face that situation again. This is why people hoard food, money and other material things. They buy stuff more than they need or things that they don't need.

Having a compulsive buying disorder is another possible cause of compulsive hoarding. Being a shopaholic will lead to a life of physical, mental and emotional clutter. Buying and spending things on impulse will make a person accumulate lots of debts and unwanted items. It will result in mental and emotional anguish. This happens because the person uses shopping as a means to overcome emotional issues like wanting to feel worthy and to overcome anxiety and depression.

Tips to Overcome Compulsive Hoarding No. 1 - Go Thorough Your Stuff

Look at all the stuff that you have been collecting. Except for some books and photographs, identify what are the things that you have not touched or use for the last year especially those that have no value but taking up space. These are the first things to go.

Tips to Overcome Compulsive Hoarding No. 2 - Give Them Away

You won't lose anything by giving away things that you no longer need or use. Remember that even something holds a sentimental value to you, you can still cherish the memories in your mind. Anyway, even if it's lying in your home you may have forgotten of its existence.

Tips to Overcome Compulsive Hoarding No. 3 - Recycle

Collecting or keeping things with the intention to recycle is a good idea. But do you really take action? If your answer is "Someday I will" the question is when? If you aren't serious, stop hoarding.

Tips to Overcome Compulsive Hoarding No. 4 - Sell Them

If there's any value, you can sell them to second hand shops, at eBay or any other outlets that are willing to buy. If you have so many things, organize a garage sale and sell them cheap.

Tips to Overcome Compulsive Hoarding No. 5 - Throw Them Away

Get rid of things that are of no use. Why do you still keep brochures, old magazines, bills, expired coupons, broken things, empty bottles, old carpets, and etcetera? Just throw them away.

Tips to Overcome Compulsive Hoarding No. 6 - Practice Self Control

In order to avoid getting into the habit of hoarding clutter again, you must practice self control.

1. Don't buy what you don't need. Every one of us wants so many things in life. When you get the urge to purchase something, ask yourself if you really need it. Can you live without it? If you decide not to buy, you'll gain self control and you can save the money for more important things.
   
   
   
2. Instead of buying so many souvenirs and memorabilia for yourself when you travel, take lots of pictures or photos. They are cheaper, don't take up space and is a great way to recall your traveling experiences.
   
   
   
3. When someone gives you something as a gift, accept it. But if you don't need it any longer, give it away to someone else who would benefit.
   
   
   
4. Don't wait until you can't find your things or don't have space to move before you take action. Make a weekly, fortnightly or monthly schedule to organize your home.

How to Overcome Compulsive Hoarding Behavior or Hoarding Disorder

A disorganized life usually is the result of a disorderly mind. Set aside time, get a pen and a few pieces of paper. Write down what you are thinking and feeling. Find out what are the reasons for your compulsive hoarding behavior.

Then write down what you expect from yourself. Write down the things that you will no longer tolerate and what are the things that you can do consistently to put your life in order.

Practice relaxation exercise to reduce stress, anger and frustrations. When your body and mind are relaxed, you can think better. It helps boost your confidence and enables you to handle problems and make decisions.

Try using emotional freedom technique to deal with compulsive hoarding behavior. EFT tapping may help release your emotional attachment to something or someone.

Here's a video by Brad Yates to help you clear your attachment to stuff. Tap along with him and find out if it helps you deal with your compulsive hoarding disorder.