Tips

Tidying Up? Toss These 5 Things to Avoid Unwanted Troubles

As the new year approaches, it's customary for everyone to engage in a thorough cleaning spree, adorning their homes to welcome a fresh and prosperous year ahead. However, it's important to bear in mind that getting rid of certain items during this annual cleanse is crucial to avoiding potential disasters.

Administrator

10 July, 2024

For generations, the living conditions of the Vietnamese people have been challenging, leading to a strong culture of frugality. While this mindset has served us well, it’s important to recognize when it’s time to let go of certain items. Holding on to certain things can not only clutter your space but may also bring bad luck or even harm. Here are five items you should consider discarding immediately for a fresher and more fortunate home:

1Broken Mirrors

Broken Mirrors

In Vietnamese culture, mirrors are believed to possess spiritual powers to ward off evil spirits. However, a broken or cracked mirror reverses this effect, bringing bad luck. Many people underestimate the impact of a slightly cracked or shattered mirror, but keeping it around is like inviting misfortune into your home. It’s also a safety hazard, as you could cut yourself on the sharp edges.

2Stopped Clocks

Stopped Clocks

Clocks symbolize the flow of time and life itself. When a clock stops ticking, it’s considered a bad omen. So, if your clock has stopped working, quickly replace the battery or take it to a repair shop. If it’s beyond repair, don’t hold on to it, as it will only gather dust and provide a breeding ground for bacteria, potentially affecting the health of your family.

3Old Calendars

Old Calendars

According to feng shui principles, calendars represent the smooth flow of time and uninterrupted progress. While it may be tempting to hold on to old calendars for notes and reminders, doing so can actually hinder your financial prosperity. Additionally, the dust that accumulates on these calendars can negatively impact your health if inhaled.

4Torn Wallets

Torn Wallets

Feng shui wisdom suggests that using a wallet for more than three years can significantly reduce your ability to attract wealth. Aside from superstition, a torn wallet is impractical, as it increases the risk of losing your hard-earned money. Invest in a new, high-quality wallet to safeguard your finances and attract good fortune.

5Damaged Shoes

Damaged Shoes

Holding on to damaged shoes is not only pointless but also symbolic of hardship and struggle. The unpleasant odor that often accompanies worn-out shoes can affect the ambiance of your home and the health of your family. Let go of these shoes and embrace a fresh start.

While these beliefs are not absolute truths, they offer valuable insights into creating a harmonious and fortunate living space. As the old saying goes, “It’s better to be safe than sorry.” Take these suggestions into consideration and make room for new opportunities and blessings.

Frequently asked questions

Regular decluttering and getting rid of unnecessary items is important for maintaining a tidy and organized space, which can improve your mental well-being and reduce stress. It also helps you find things easily and saves time and effort in cleaning and maintaining your surroundings.

1. Expired food and medications: These can be harmful to your health and should be discarded immediately upon expiration.
2. Broken or damaged items: If something is broken and cannot be fixed, it’s best to let it go. Holding on to broken items takes up space and can be a safety hazard.
3. Unwanted gifts or items with no sentimental value: It’s okay to part ways with gifts that don’t bring you joy or have no practical use. Donate or recycle them to give them a new purpose.
4. Old documents and paperwork: Keep only what is necessary and shred or securely dispose of the rest to protect your privacy.
5. Clothes that no longer fit or are outdated: Donate or upcycle clothing that no longer serves you. This frees up space in your wardrobe and can benefit someone else.

It’s best to set a regular schedule that works for you. Some people prefer a seasonal approach, while others may opt for a more frequent monthly or bimonthly decluttering session. The key is to be consistent and make it a habit so that the task doesn’t become overwhelming.

By getting rid of expired food and medications, you ensure your health and safety. Removing broken items reduces the risk of accidents and frees up space for new, functional items. Letting go of unwanted gifts or items without sentimental value can bring a sense of freedom and lightness, as you’re not weighed down by material possessions. Shredding old documents protects your personal information, preventing identity theft. Finally, donating clothes that no longer fit or are outdated helps those in need and keeps your wardrobe fresh and organized.

A helpful guideline is the ‘6-Month Rule’. If you haven’t used an item in the last 6 months and it’s not seasonal or sentimental, consider letting it go. This rule helps you be more mindful about your possessions and ensures that you’re only keeping what is truly necessary and brings value to your life.