Researchers recruited 729 students and split them into two groups. At the end of the semester, they held a donation drive. Signs for one group said: “Don’t Pack up Your Sentimental Clutter… Just Keep a Photo of It, Then Donate.”
The other group was told: “Don’t Pack Up Your Sentimental Clutter, Just Collect the Items, Then Donate.”
The group who were instructed to take a photo of their items ended up donating more.
Speaking about the results, Reczek said, “It is not terribly surprising that we can keep the same memories alive just by taking a photo of these possessions, but it is not a natural behaviour. It is something we have to train ourselves to do.”
While we’re sure there’s a limit to the types of items this would work on, when it comes decluttering the small stuff, this tip is worth a shot.
