Do you have a collection or a stockpile?

If you’re struggling with clutter, I recommend you read The Hoarder in You: How to Live a Happier, Healthier, Uncluttered Life by Dr. Robin Zasio. Don’t be scared off by the title, this book is not just for hoarders but for all clutterers great and small.

I just finished the audiobook version – a great way to learn while on the go! Because the author is a doctor of psychology, the book provides great insight into the motivations behind why we hold onto things and get into trouble with clutter.

One part that I found particularly helpful details the difference between a collection and a stockpile. As I see it, a collection is an intentionally curated (and routinely culled) group of like items of value to you. A stockpile, on the other hand, is an accumulated mass of vaguely similar items. The distinction lies both in motivation and in method.

Here’s my synthesis of Dr. Zasio’s distinctions:
with clutter I urge y

COLLECTION	STOCKPILE
Has a restricted theme (e.g. ancient Greek coins from the Hellenistic period)	Theme is unclear or too broad ​(e.g. old coins)
​Thoughtfully displayed for viewing or stored for security/preservation	​Messy (overstuffed and overflowing containers or piles)
Someone else could easily see that this is a special grouping of items.	Others just see it as a bunch of stuff.
Each piece is unique.	You have multiples of the same thing.
You must strategize to add to the grouping (e.g. save up to afford a new item or search for a special item to fill a gap in the group).	You add items just because they strike your fancy.
You’re willing to trade with other collectors and could give up an item if the group was too large or if you needed money.	You always want to acquire more and it’s tough to part with any of the items.

Check out Dr. Zasio’s full list on my Pinterest page, “Clutterer Resources.”

Did you discover that you have a stockpile instead of a collection? Multiple stockpiles? If you're ready to start overcoming the clutter that's overtaking your life, drop me a line. I have strategies to help you work through the piles!