Top 3 Tips for Effective Downsizing
“I want my kids to do it after I die.”
A woman said this to me before a presentation after I asked if she had started the process of downsizing. I wish I’d chatted with her after the seminar, which offered tips for making the process easier; perhaps she had a change of heart? Perhaps not. Many people say the thought of sorting through a lifetime of stuff is so overwhelming they avoid it.
Are you or your loved ones facing the process of downsizing? It’s daunting, yes, but a few choices can make it easier.
Here are three important tips:
START EARLY. Starting well before it’s time to move allows you to have more agency, significantly decreasing the sense of overwhelm you’ll feel. It’s always easier to make decisions without the pressure of a fast-approaching deadline (even more so when a medical event happens that requires immediate relocation). It only gets harder over time, especially as physical or cognitive challenges creep onto the scene.
CHECK YOUR MINDSET. Deborah Moyer at The Downsizing Institute says, “Downsizing isn’t something to fear; it’s really just a process of reassessing and actively choosing what you need in your current season of life to be happy, healthy and comfortable.” Often people try to hold onto as much as possible, keeping things that served them well earlier in life even though they no longer need or use them.
MAKE A PLAN. Break up the process into small steps and start working through your list. Start small. Build up wins in spaces that are easier for you –maybe the linen closet or a guest bedroom. If you’re going to be living in your home for a while longer, start with the areas that don’t impact your day-to-day life, such as the attic and other storage areas. No one said those spaces are necessarily easy, but once you build some momentum, the process gets easier. If you allow yourself ample time, you can plan regular downsizing sessions over the course of months or at least weeks. Any big thing is easier to do in smaller steps.
Take advantage of your resources, whether it’s people who can help you or places that provide guidance. Here are some resources you can access any time:
Our Senior Downsizing Made Easier digital guide is a great place to start. For only $9.95 you get professional guidance you can put into practice immediately.
The Downsizing Made Simpler Series from The Downsizing Institute offers easy-to-follow, self-paced online courses that are very affordable; use the code SPIRIT10 for 10% off.
The vast majority of people who downsize wish they'd done it sooner. Take control of your situation and begin making choices on your terms, before health or finances force your hand. You'll be glad you did!