When I say I specialize in downsizing, most people immediately think I only work with people who are older, and probably retired. But downsizing, by definition, just means to make smaller. So, whether you are decreasing your space or your items, you are downsizing.
Let’s talk about what different forms of downsizing look like and how it can help you.
- Home Downsizing – From a smaller home in retirement to a smaller home to save money, moving is the most common form of downsizing. Here are some things to consider as you go through things and pack up:
a. What rooms and storage spaces do you have now and will not have in your new home?
b. Who will be moving with you?
c. Will the size of your closets and rooms be significantly smaller?
d. Begin going through things as far ahead as possible so you have time to make real decisions on what to keep and to label those boxes appropriately. This will keep you from just throwing items in boxes to get them loaded up, and make moving into the new home much easier. - Downsizing Items – Do you have too much stuff in a space, whether it is furniture or other items? Then this type of downsizing will work for you, and here are some things to consider in this instance:
a. Always separate items by category, and then sort by give away, throw away, and keep.
b. Items of sentimental value should be displayed in some way or else you are not really enjoying them. Think photos in albums or digitally displayed, (digital photo frames are a great way to also share them with friends and family), or keepsakes in a frame or shadowbox.
– If the emotions are fresh from a recent loss, it is ok to store those items away for a time and begin with the day-to-day non-emotional items. You will feel more like you have made progress to begin with, and it will make tackling the items with emotions attached to them easier.
c. Use the 10-second rule to determine if you really need the item or if you are just keeping it because you have it. If you are tripping over it and never using it, it is time to let someone else get some use out of it.
I know this can be an overwhelming, and even emotional process. If you need my help in working through it, reach out. It can be helpful to have someone who does not have the same emotional attachment and can be impartial.
Need more help in going through the process? Schedule your FREE consultation.
Contact denise hudak at 330-414-0963 or denise.hudak@gmail.com
Denise's Fanciful Function 