Books Keep the Memories, Lose the Stuff: Declutter, Downsize, and Move Forward with Your Life by Matt Paxton (Author), Jordan Michael Smith

"Keep the Memories, Lose the Stuff: Declutter, Downsize, and Move Forward with Your Life" by Matt Paxton and Jordan Michael Smith is a guide to help people thoughtfully declutter and downsize while preserving meaningful memories. Matt Paxton, a well-known cleaning expert and host of the PBS series Legacy List, combines practical advice with emotional empathy to assist readers in letting go of excess possessions in a way that honors their past.

The book outlines a step-by-step process that starts with uncovering the personal stories and emotions attached to belongings, setting clear goals for decluttering, and taking manageable actions like the "Ten-Minute Sweep" to build momentum. It introduces the concept of a "Legacy List," a small collection (typically five items) of significant keepsakes that tell your life story and are worth holding onto.

Paxton addresses emotional challenges by encouraging readers to acknowledge grief and attachment, share stories about possessions, involve a support network, and keep focus on the future benefits of decluttering. Practical tips include digitizing photos and documents, setting time-based rules for keeping items, and creating a "Maybe Pile" for uncertain possessions.