A childhood marked by scarcity—whether it’s growing up with not enough food to eat, living through war, or enduring the hardships of the Great Depression—leaves a lasting imprint. These experiences shape how many view possessions, food, and waste, embedding emotional weight into everyday items. For some, scarcity is a distant memory. For others, it continues to influence decisions, thoughts, and behaviours, even decades later. Even events as recent as COVID times and being unable to get the items we wanted have added to this sense of scarcity, reminding us of the uncertainty and limited resources we may once have experienced.
The Emotional Weight of Scarcity
Food hoarding is one of the most visible ways scarcity leaves its mark. People who experienced genuine hunger in their formative years may find it difficult to trust that their needs will always be met. This fear of “not enough” can linger long after their circumstances have changed. Even when the fridge is full, the anxiety persists, urging them to stockpile more.
Similarly, those raised during times of widespread resource scarcity often learn to hold onto anything that “still works.” Why discard something functional when it could save money or serve a purpose in the future? These beliefs—rooted in survival—are deeply ingrained, passed down like heirlooms through phrases such as waste not, want not.
For some, this upbringing results in hoarding tendencies. Every item, no matter how trivial, feels valuable. For others, it’s not outright hoarding but a profound resistance to letting go. The reluctance isn’t about the object itself; it’s about the story or memory it represents: This was good enough for Mum; why isn’t it good enough now?
The Hidden Costs of Holding On
While these habits stem from a place of survival, they can become burdensome over time. The physical clutter can lead to cramped living spaces, while the emotional weight contributes to stress, guilt, or even shame. It’s not uncommon to hear clients say they feel paralysed, unable to let go because of what if scenarios or sentimental attachment.
Understanding these roots is the first step toward change. Recognising that these habits once served a purpose can help ease the guilt of moving forward.
Breaking Free from the Past
Even when a lifetime of scarcity shapes your perspective, change is possible. The journey begins with a single decision—a choice to start small and focus on progress, not perfection. It doesn’t have to involve the most sentimental or challenging items at first. Instead, we often encourage clients to begin with simpler, more straightforward decisions, such as:
- Discarding expired pantry items that no longer serve a purpose.
- Letting go of cracked or chipped plates that no longer bring joy or functionality.
- Donating duplicate tools gathering dust in the shed or garage.
These small victories create momentum, empowering you to tackle larger or more sentimental areas over time.
The Freedom of Letting Go
Decluttering is about much more than tidying up your home—it’s a transformative process of finding balance and clarity. By keeping the things that truly matter and releasing those that no longer serve you, you create physical and emotional space for growth, opportunities, and peace of mind.
Imagine a home where each item has a purpose and brings you joy. Picture the freedom of no longer being weighed down by just in case or what if. This is the kind of change that decluttering can bring—a change that’s as liberating as it is empowering.
Transforming Through Support
Change doesn’t happen overnight, especially when dealing with habits and beliefs shaped by scarcity. But it can happen with the right approach: patience, compassion, and support. At Space and Time, we understand the emotional ties to possessions and the stories behind them.
We work with our clients to untangle these connections gently, focusing on what truly matters to them. Together, we create space—not just in your home, but in your mind and heart.
Still too hard?
You don’t have to go through this alone. Take the first step today and let Space and Time guide you toward creating a home that feels lighter and more aligned with your needs. Together, we can create space—both physically and emotionally. Contact us today to begin your journey towards a more balanced, peaceful space. Let’s create a supportive environment together!