You open your pantry. It is packed. There are five boxes of pasta, three jars of sauce, and snacks falling off the shelf.
Yet, you look at it and say, “There is nothing to eat.”
This is the Paradox of Abundance. We think having “more” will make us feel safe. However, it usually just makes us feel overwhelmed.
You Don’t Own Your Stuff, It Owns You
Why do we stockpile?
We buy in bulk because it is “a good deal.” We keep old cables because we “might need them.” This comes from a Scarcity Mindset (fear of running out).
But abundance comes with a cost. First, you have to clean it. Next, you have to organize it. Finally, you have to move it to find what you want.
Every item you own takes up a tiny piece of your brain. Therefore, when you have too much stuff, your brain runs out of space.
3 Signs You Are Suffering from Toxic Abundance
You might be drowning in your own “safety net.” Here is how to tell.
1. The “Stockpile” Anxiety
Do you buy shampoo even when you already have two full bottles at home?
The Fix: The “Store is the Warehouse” Rule. Do not treat your home like a warehouse. Let the store hold the inventory. Buy a replacement. But, wait until the current one is 90% empty.
2. The “Choice” Paralysis
You have 20 mugs. However, you only use your favorite two. The rest just get in the way.
The Fix: Identify your “Daily Drivers.” Put the favorites on the bottom shelf. Put the extras in a box. If you don’t open the box in 6 months, donate it.
3. You Spend Time “Managing” Instead of Living
Do you spend Saturday organizing the garage? Then, your abundance is stealing your life.
Basically, if you have to buy plastic bins to hold your extra stuff, you have too much stuff.
Common Questions About Clutter
Why do I keep things I don’t use?
It is fear. You are afraid you might need them someday. This is called a scarcity mindset.
Where do I start decluttering?
Start with the trash. Throw away expired food. Then, throw away broken items. It is the easiest win.
Does clutter cause anxiety?
Yes. Visual clutter signals to your brain that your work is never done. This raises your stress levels.
Conclusion
True abundance isn’t about having a full house. It is about having a clear mind.
Clear out the excess. In the end, you will realize something. Having ‘just enough’ feels better than having it all.
Tell me in the comments: What is the one item you stockpile for no reason? I currently have 4 tubes of toothpaste.
