One of the biggest roadblocks to getting organized isn’t lack of time, space, or storage—it’s guilt. As a professional organizer, I see it daily: people struggling to let go of things, not because they’re useful or meaningful, but because they feel bad about parting with them.

Whether it’s guilt over money spent, the person who gave you the item, or concern about waste, these emotions can paralyze your progress. Let’s explore four of the most common guilt-based sticking points—and how to let go with more peace of mind.