Does the thought of simplifying your surroundings and life sound wonderful, but the challenges of the generating the transition keeps you from generating a change? You’re not alone! Regardless of how attractive it may seem, downsizing a lifetime may be an emotional and organizational nightmare.
To assure that the transition is less stressful, consider these downsizing tips:
Start having a plan As the old adage goes “in case you fail to plan you plan to fail.” This really is so true when it comes to planning a effective downsizing move. I recommend starting a 3-ring binder with tabs to collect all the info in one place related to your move.
Start sorting now Sorting through a lifetime of possessions might be overwhelming, but it must be performed. Schedule regular sessions with yourself or having a Expert Organizer. Pick 1 area to start, ideally an region that you might be not currently employing. The important thing is to begin and to be consistent.
Decisions, decisions How do you determine what to take and what to part with? In my function with clients, I constantly stress visualizing and planning for the lifestyle you are transitioning to, not the lifestyle you’re transitioning from. When moving to a smaller space, every item kept should have a function and a specific purpose. So let go of that 20-year-old console TV that may possibly still work, but takes up half the room and keep the newer portable cable-ready TV that can easily fit anywhere.
Make a floor plan As soon as you have a new property confirmed, begin planning the floor plan. This makes deciding what stays and what goes so much easier. Even if you haven’t decided on a specific new residence yet, it’s never too early to give some thought to what items you know you will take with you and plan main rooms like the living room, master bedroom and kitchen.
What to do with all the stuff? It takes time to find homes for all the stuff you will not be moving with you. By starting early you will have the time to find just the right property for your belongings. Make a list of all the items you will not be taking and start talking with family and friends to see what they could be thinking about purchasing or taking offer your hands. Also start collecting resources like auction houses, antique stores that buy items, storage facilities and haulers.
Experience the emotions of the transition You will experience several emotions as you sort through a lifetime of memories. Moving is a transition at any age, but a downsizing move represents a transition from one lifestyle to another. All transitions contain an element of loss and excitement, as you encounter when again memories of the past and anticipate the new life ahead. Expect to feel some grief together with your excitement and anticipation.
