We all have them—the DOOM box. It stands for "Didn't Open, Only Moved," an acronym as ominous as it feels when facing the task of sorting through it. We often do everything in our power to avoid confronting these boxes. Suddenly, even the most dreaded chores seem preferable to tackling that pile of delayed decisions. But what if you challenged yourself to address that box once and for all? A slight shift in your approach can make this daunting task more manageable. Ready to conquer that troublesome box? Let's break it down together.

Understanding the DOOM Box

A DOOM box is a collection of postponed decisions. It often contains sentimental keepsakes, broken items, or random tchotchkes without a clear home. When you see that box, feelings of confusion, shame, or overwhelm may bubble up. Shoving it back in the closet may seem easier, but growth happens when we face our challenges head-on.

Start Small: One Item at a Time

There's no rule saying you must tackle the entire box in one go. Start by removing a single item and making a decision about it. Allowing yourself to handle just one item at a time reduces overwhelm and builds momentum. Focus on finding a proper place for that item or deciding if it's time to let it go.

Handling the Hard-to-Categorize Items

You may hesitate to toss away the random trinkets you find in your DOOM box because you might use them someday. Ask yourself: If the perfect occasion arises, will I even remember I own this item? If the answer is no, it's likely time to part with it. If you decide to keep it, store it alongside related items you would reach for at the same time. For example, Mardi Gras beads could live with your party supplies or holiday decorations.

Sorting Sentimental Items

Sentimental items can be the trickiest to manage. Reflect on these questions to clarify their value:

• Are you keeping this because you love it or because someone you care for did?
• Does the item evoke positive or negative emotions?
• Are the memories tied to this item worth preserving?

If you choose to keep sentimental items, honor them by storing them thoughtfully. Display treasured mementos on shelves where they can be enjoyed. Letters, cards, and photographs can be kept in a labeled keepsake box for easy access. Be cautious about stuffing everything into a large plastic bin—if it's worth keeping, it's worth enjoying. If a bin is your choice, label it clearly and review it periodically to ensure it still holds meaningful items.

Building Confidence Through Progress

You can conquer your DOOM box—one item, one decision at a time. Start with the easy wins: random trinkets and forgotten gadgets. Save sentimental items for last, when your organizing confidence has grown. Focus on grouping like items together and placing them where they'll be easy to find and use.

Chipping away at your DOOM box bit by bit not only clears clutter but also strengthens your decision-making muscles. And with practice, you may just find that the next DOOM box you encounter isn't so intimidating after all.