Breaking the “I Might Need This Someday” Habit
One of the most common phrases I hear as a professional organizer is: “I might need this someday.”
Whether it's an old phone charger, a stack of takeout menus, or jeans from 2009, this mindset keeps our homes filled with items that no longer serve us and might not ever. Let’s be honest: someday rarely comes! If you're ready to create a space that feels lighter, more intentional, and easier to maintain, it starts with breaking this habit.
Why We Hold On to Things “Just in Case”
Before we tackle the how, it’s important to understand the why.
Fear of Waste: We worry we’ll regret throwing something out and have to repurchase it later.
Guilt: It was a gift. It cost money. It belonged to someone we cared about.
Scarcity Mindset: We might not be able to afford or find it again.
Perfectionism: We don’t want to make the “wrong” choice, so we make no choice.
These are real and valid feelings - but they don’t have to dictate your space!
The Cost of Clutter
While keeping things “just in case” might feel responsible, it comes with hidden costs:
Time wasted looking for things
Stress from visual chaos
Money spent buying duplicates
Lost space that could be used for items you love and use
Let’s shift the focus from what might happen to what’s happening right now in your home and life.
How to Break the “Someday” Habit
1. Set Clear Boundaries
Give yourself limits. For example: “I will keep one small box of miscellaneous cords. If it doesn’t fit, it goes.”
This helps you keep some just-in-case items without letting them take over your space.
2. Use the 20/20 Rule
If it costs less than $20 and can be replaced in under 20 minutes, let it go. This rule helps cut through decision fatigue.
3. Turn the Question Around
Instead of asking “What if I need this?” ask: “What’s the worst-case scenario if I don’t have this?”
Chances are, the worst case is minor and quite manageable!
4. Give It a Deadline
Still can’t decide? Put it in a “maybe” box with a date 3-6 months in the future. If you haven’t needed or even thought about the item by then, it’s probably safe to let it go. Don’t forget to mark your calendar to revisit the “maybe” box to complete the process.
5. Focus on the Life You Want
Clutter is the physical manifestation of indecision. Every item you keep should support your current lifestyle or the one you're actively building - not the one you left behind or fear losing.
✨ Imagine the Freedom
Imagine opening your closet, garage, or junk drawer and only seeing things that are used and loved. No more second-guessing. No more clutter stealing your time or peace of mind.
Letting go of the “I might need this someday” mentality isn’t about becoming a minimalist, it’s about becoming intentional. It’s about creating a home that supports you, rather than weighs you down.
Need help deciding what to keep or toss?
That’s what our expert team of professional organizers does for many clients just like you! Visit our contact page to schedule an intro call and let’s simplify your space one “just in case” item at a time!