When downsizing or reducing, and making decisions on what to keep or not keep, take into consideration the real value of an item as well as the memory value.  Memory value is the sentimental value we personally place on belongings, either those owned by us, or by someone we know or knew.  The more personally significant an object is, the more valuable it appears to us.  Therefore, an item that may have a realistic value of $25.00 can be perceived as having a memory value of $125.00.  Come up with a maximum number for the quantity of high memory value items you can realistically hold on to.