Declutter hand hold and sentimental items advice

[NoFitStateMum]

I have 4 clear days coming up and really need to declutter and then tidy up and deep clean.

We have to much stuff but I struggle with getting rid because:

a) I worry I will regret throwing something away and also feel guilty doing so.

b) I am unclear about how to decide what sentimental items to keep (especially things related to my children who are both still primary age)

c) I feel bad abour sending stuff to landfill so need to try to rehome everything before doing that so it's time consuming. I don't bother selling much as I find I just can't shift things that way, despite buying lots preloaded myself.

I would love a handhold as well as a steer from those of you with older / adult children re: sentimental stuff to keep.
Baby and toddler clothing, toys and books are hard for me, as is school work and arts and crafts.

I am not diagnosed but have many adhd traits - procrastination, perfectionism, struggle with decision making, anxiety, self-criticism, overwhelm, distraction and starting-and-not-finishing tasks.

But I can't carry on as I am. I can't find things when I need to and am fed up of looking at clutter which adds to the daily stress levels.

I tried Marie Kondo's approach but it didn't work for me and and I lost the book for a while....in a pile!

DP is the polar opposite - v unsentimental (memories are in your head) and would bin 90% of it. Which scares me! Lol!

Help!
Thanks

I understand what you are going through as I have to clear a house with not only children's stuff (they are now grown up) but also stuff from dead parents, and jsut too much stuff of my own.

I've often wondered about giving household things to a women's refuge for women and children who have left abusive homes with virtually nothing.

I'm sorry I can't help with an answer but I could have written your a, b and c points!!!

I keep things because I'm worried I will regret throwing them away, yet they can be things that I've not looked at or needed for years!! I wish I could ruthlessly get rid of everything except the stuff I use and wear regularly.

And I feel bad about landfill too. I hate going to the tip and seeing everyone chucking stuff away, it makes me feel so despondent!

Anyway, I'm sorry I haven't got answers but posting for solidarity!!

I always think 'do I want to store this'?

I love taking things to local refuge.

Have you planned areas for each day OP?

With sentimental things what about nice pretty storage boxes, one for each child? Then keep in your loft or a cupboard somewhere. Yes you haven't got rid but it's kept safe and together.