What Psychological Need Is Being Met By Storing Things Considered Too Nice To Use?

Question: A year ago today, my mother died suddenly. Sorting through her belongings, my sister and I were amazed at how much stuff she had hoarded away in drawers and cupboards, beautiful gifts that never saw the light of day. It made me realise that I too can be overly precious about life. I recall being told so many times "you only have one life, don't mess it up". I would love for once to hear instead "you only have one life, make it as messy as possible". What psychological need is being met by storing things considered "too nice to use"?

Answer (1) Life is messy indeed. As humans we often make messes and then hopefully clean them up, learning in the process. However, to answer your question, many people do store objects, saving them for special occasions that rarely occur. Sometimes there is a need to store "nice or good things" because nice or good things feel in short supply. Other times it can stem from a feeling that one does not deserve to have nice or good things all the time. To a degree storing nice or good objects is normal but when taken to excess may indicate underlying issues related to loss, letting go, security and worthiness.

Answer provided by Gemma Summers, Psychotherapist

Answer (2 ) People are different, some shy some extroverted. Some people like to keep precious things in a safe place, some people like to display them as part of showing who they are. At least your mother didn't throw them out (many people do) and now you can enjoy them, if you choose to do so.

Answer provided by Susan Alldred-Lugton, Psychologist