Survey #186 Response from Susan

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Statement #1: When I give valuable things to friends or family, I worry that they will turn around and give them away.
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Statement #2: When I give something away, I accept that I have no further claim to it, which gives me peace of mind.
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Statement #3: I only give things on the condition that the recipients will involve me in any decisions about the future disposition of things I’ve given them.
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Statement #4: I find it discouraging when I give useful and valuable things to friends and family who don't appreciate it.
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Statement #5: Worrying about what happens to things after you give them away is letting stuff hold too much power over you.
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Statement #6: It means a lot to me that my children recognize and understand the importance and value of items from our family’s history.
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Statement #7: Even though my stuff has become a burden in my life, it’s hard to let go of good things to people who don’t appreciate them.
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Statement #8: Remaining attached to our stuff and feeling like we need to find a good home for each item arises out of a need to remain in control.
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Statement #9: When people don’t want the thing you give to them, it isn’t a judgment on you or the value of your gift.
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
What factors do you consider when you’re thinking about giving things away to family members, friends, neighbors, or other people you know?If I've decided to get rid of something, I'll generally offer it to family members first. I might be a bit sad if they don't want it. However, it's no big deal. The next port of call is the charity shop. If not suitable for charity, I'll offer it on Freecycle/Freegle.
What factors do you consider when you’re thinking about donating items to a charity, shelter, or unknown recipient?I'm only concerned that it will be saleable for the charity, and not a burden to them. Freecycle/Freegle is a last resort, but I've had great success with this. My only worry is security (having unknown strangers coming to my home).
What is your all-time favorite hand-me-down, cast-off, or regifted item?Delighted to give away a bulky leather settee, that couldn't be taken by charity, as it lacked a fire safety label. Always good to see the back of bulky stuff!
Name one or more of your favorite Clutter Fairy-isms (e.g., “thin the herd”) or decluttering and organizing mnemonic devices (e.g., OHIO—Only Handle It Once)."Thin the herd', without a doubt 😉
Here’s your chance to ask Gayle and Ed any question you’re curious about. It need not be related to this survey’s topic(s).It's not a question - it's a statement. I used to try and sell things I didn't want - especially on eBay. Now, I've concluded that (in most cases) selling isn't worth it. It's hard, unappealing, work. Now, I much prefer to give even valuable items to charity. Regard this as a good charity donation, rather than giving money. They are more skilled at selling than I am, likely to get a better price, and it's for a good cause. (And I don't have to do it.) Win-Win all round.
Future topics

Anything on keeping up motivation, and making speedier decisions about what to keep/let go, always welcome. Thank-you for everything you do!

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