Feeling Overwhelmed - Multiparty Collection And Trying To Honor It.

Well hello. I guess my first post can be about just how overwhelming a large collection is. I do not want to sound as if I am complaining, I'm just on a steep learning curve. I wanted to just say its nice to read what others are talking and learning about as well. So Thank you!

Howdy Serenity .. well, I cannot speak for others, but after more than 50 years in the hobby there are days I still feel that way!! Hang in there . . take your time and poke away at it.

Welcome
Many stamp collectors really enjoy bringing order to disorder, it is why we do what we do! But it can be, as you note, a bit overwhelming at times. For big jobs, I always start by ensuring I have a large amount of workspace. And workspace in which I do not feel pressured to 'clean up' at the end of my work session. This is because I generally need a lot of space to spread out the various organizational piles of stamps and covers and these piles might be around for a few days.

So to avoid clashes with others in the household, many of us have dedicated stamp rooms instead of trying to use the kitchen table. If you do not have a room, you might consider using folding 'card' tables which can be carefully moved out of the way for multi-day use. The over-whelming feeling might be less noticeable if you don't feel pressured to 'clean up' after each stamping session.
Don

I would also recommend, trying to parse out the collection/items into smaller amounts. Sometimes I get very frustrated when I open my box of stamps yet to sort and it almost overwhelms me. Now maybe I just take one or two envelopes or clusters from that box. Suddenly it becomes very more manageable and I am able to stay focused on the task. Visual clutter can often overwhelm the mind.

Thank you guys/girls for all the feedback! I will try to sort out a "card" table for now. I am not sure I want to dedicate a whole room. I have started working on small "bundles". For instance...there are thousands upon thousands of new mint stamps from the 1950's-70's. So I worked my way through those first.

I'm trying to decide what British Colony I want to start on. This collection is actually 3 peoples collections. 2 of which were in the British Forces. 1 posted in India and South Africa.... Another an active international journalist. Those two both actively collected during their lives. I feel as if I am holding history when I look through these little pieces of paper.

The other thing I'm doing. Is setting a time every day to "work on" this collection.

Glad to have found this site! Have a fantastic day everyone!

Hi and welcome. I got back into stamp a few years ago. Just keep looking around here and ask questions. It may take a while, but eventuallynyou will get there. Have cun on the way.

Thank you. I appreciate the encouragement.

Serenityk461: I truly understand the overwhelming part. I took the advice of the community members and depending on the time frame, I only remove one or two envelopes at a time to sort out. This way I can get a feeling of accomplishment. Just enjoy the stamps at your own pace. Welcome to the community! Honeydo.