Author: Janet Nusbaum
Does the possibility of simplifying your life sound wonderful, but you can’t imagine how you will ever get from here to there? You are not alone! Regardless of how attractive it may seem, downsizing a lifetime can be an emotional and organizational nightmare.
To assure that the transition is less stressful, consider some of these downsizing tips:
Start with a plan
As the old adage goes “if you fail to plan you plan to fail.” This is so true when it comes to planning a successful downsizing move. I recommend starting a 3-ring binder with tabs to collect all the information in one place related to your move.
Start sorting now
Sorting through a lifetime of possessions can be overwhelming, but it must be done. Schedule regular sessions with yourself or with a Professional Organizer. Pick one area to start, ideally an area that you are not currently using. The important thing is to begin and to be consistent.
Decisions, decisions
How do you decide what to take and what to part with? In my work with clients, I always stress visualizing and planning for the lifestyle you are going to, not the lifestyle you are leaving. 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 still work, but takes up half the wall and keep the newer portable cable-ready TV that can easily fit anywhere.
Make a floor plan
As soon as you have a new home confirmed, begin planning the floor plan. This makes the deciding what stays and what goes exercise so much easier. Even if you haven’t decided on a specific new home yet, you know that you are downsizing, so give some thought to what items you know you will take with you and plan main rooms like the living room, master bedroom and den.
What do I do with all this 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 home for your belongings. Begin collecting resources like auction houses, antique stores that buy items, storage facilities and haulers. Also, make a list of all the items you will not be taking and begin talking with family and friends to see what they may be interested in purchasing or taking offer your hands.
Experience the emotions of the transition
It is understood that you will experience many emotions as you sort a lifetime of memories. This is normal. Moving is a transition at any age, but a downsizing move is often a transition from one lifestyle to another. All transitions contain an element of loss and excitement, as you experience once again memories of the past and anticipate the new life ahead. Expect to feel some grief along with your excitement and anticipation.
Resource box
Janet Nusbaum, President of Simplified Spaces, Organizing Consultant, Senior Move Manager, Speaker, Coach, Trainer and author of ‘Mom, Can I Help Around the House?’ helps individuals, families and businesses organize life and navigate transitions. To learn more and to receive Janet’s FREE special report “Shelf Life of 75 Common Household Products”, to help you decide what to keep and what to toss, visit www.SimplifiedSpaces.net.
สมัครสมาชิก:
ส่งความคิดเห็น (Atom)
ไม่มีความคิดเห็น:
แสดงความคิดเห็น