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Listen "#172 Harriet Impey on clearing out her parents’ very full home, through family belongings and personal growth, in the film Where Dragons Live"
Episode Synopsis
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Podcast show notes, links and transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/
In today's episode, I chat with Harriet Impey about the complex process of clearing out her parents' cluttered house after their deaths. From unusual family rules to emotional ties with objects, we cover how Harriet navigated the challenges of sorting belongings, her family dynamics, and the personal growth she experienced along the way navigating emotional landscapes.
We also talk about whether her parents hoarded and how their relationship with their stuff has affected her relationship with her stuff. Plus, we discuss the importance of letting go, embracing mindfulness, and the transformative power of therapy.
Trailer: Where Dragons Live: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2ARgzYZei8
Growing up in a cluttered house and realisation later in life
Harriet's mother's attachment to objects and possible hoarding
Influence of family habits on personal behaviour
Relationships and Emotional Awareness
Harriet's journey towards emotional awareness and accepting imperfections
Importance of recognising complex feelings
Managing fear of arguments and expressing anger
Using Objects Instead of Saving Them
Harriet's family preference for keeping items "too special to use"
Transition to using these items with joy
Family Dynamics and Emotional Suppression
Differences in attitudes towards possessions among Harriet and her siblings
Parents' contrasting approaches to objects
Impact of her mother's anxiety on household rules and behavior
Clearing Out Parents' Home
Harriet's responsibility in sorting through parental belongings
Emotional impact of dealing with deceased person's possessions
Reference to "Swedish Death Cleaning"
Importance of considerate item management
Therapy and Self-Reflection
Harriet's 20 years of therapy and its impact
The influence of therapy on personal happiness and self-awareness
Learning to be less rigid in life
Managing and Letting Go of Belongings
Evaluating the necessity of keeping certain belongings
Mindfulness and Mental Health
Mindful self-compassion and ACT
The filming of "Where Dragons Live"
The dual charm and burden of the family home
Personal Experiences and Family Impact
In God we trust