The same goes for Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist or any other portal. Every item you sell, unless it’s something that was given to you, is being sold at a loss—e.g. pennies on the dollar. And if you value your time—and who doesn’t—the yard sale is even more of a loser.

But there is another way.

Most of my clients love when I offer to take stuff to the women’s shelter. I feel good about it, too. The gain of giving far outweighs any money you might have received in a sale.

One caveat about this path is that most charitable organizations aren’t looking for cast off tchotchkes and plastic toys. They need the basics: clothing, kitchen items, tools, etc.

As important as what you donate is who you donate it to. Do your homework and find a local charity you feel good about. When it’s time to make the donation, do it yourself and in person.

The act of dropping off is part of the gain in giving. It feels so good. Not only do you feel 10 lbs. lighter for letting go of your stuff, but you have the added joy of sharing your excess with someone with less.

In addition to charities, Buy-Nothing groups are also a terrific way to make someone’s day. For those unfamiliar, these are online groups where you offer your stuff for free. When someone contacts you, you negotiate a way to get that item to said person.

Simple as that.

The beauty of utilizing charities and Buy-Nothing groups is the lesson you learn. There’s a little bit of guilt involved in giving so much away that actually cost you good money. Yet the lesson you learn—owning your life and not more stuff—is invaluable.

Need help with your post holiday organization? Give me a call at 508-246-6120 or drop a line.