Readiness vs Hoarding
At first glance, “being prepared” and “holding onto everything just in case” can look the same. Hoarders often keep items because they might be useful someday, and preparedness also emphasizes being ready for the unexpected. So where’s the line?
How to tell the difference
The difference is intention and utility. True preparedness means owning specific, proven tools that are designed to keep you safe, healthy, and capable in a crisis. Hoarding means piling up things that probably won’t ever serve you, but feel hard to let go of.
Consider these examples
A fire extinguisher may gather dust for years, but it’s a non-negotiable safety item. One day, it could save a life.
A cherry pitter might also sit unused for years. If you’re not regularly making cherry pie, it’s not readiness. It’s clutter.
In the garage, a basic set of screws and nails is readiness (repairs in a pinch), but a random pile of wood offcuts is clutter.
A set of dependable flashlights is readiness. Three broken flashlights you “plan to fix” is hoarding.
Use the 3 P’s Method
When you’re unsure if something is worth keeping “just in case,” ask yourself 3 questions:
(Purpose) — Does this item serve a clear safety, health, or survival purpose?
(Probability) — Is it realistic that I’ll need this in the next year or two?
(Proven Value) — If I did need it, would this be the tool that truly makes a difference?
If the answer is “Yes” to Purpose + Proven Value (even if the Probability is low), it belongs in your preparedness kit. If not, it’s just taking up space.
When most people hear the word “decluttering,” they think of throwing things away, but the purpose of decluttering isn’t to empty your shelves. It’s about refining your life to the most useful and meaningful things that deserve space in your home and life. Decluttering is really about intentional living: keeping tools and treasures that protect you, bring you joy, or carry your story forward, and releasing the rest without guilt.
