In a society where bigger is better and make sure we have all the right stuff to show that we have arrived. Downsizing may seem to go against the grain. But there are so many reasons why downsizing is good for us. Other than the obvious moving into a new and smaller space. Or you are just tired of seeing so much clutter in your space. Here are THREE reasons my clients have given for wanting to downsize.
- Save money and get rid of unused space – or use it as a new function that fits the lifestyle
- Don’t want their loved ones to be burdened with it when they are unable to manage all of it
- Want to have the freedom to spend money and time elsewhere
There is definitely a multitude of other reasons for downsizing. Whatever the motivation is, there are a plethora of ways to go about it. But to stay within my frame I created… Here are THREE great ways to go about the task of downsizing.
- Get rid of one at least one thing a day
- Use the three-categories method (this is what I use with my clients). Each item is sorted into a bin, box, or bag based on three options… Keep, trash/recycle, or donate. Some add a selling category. Selling items is a whole other topic I could discuss. There are some circumstances in which this works, but for the most part, it usually ends up being better to give it away.
- Sort your house by category and only keep what brings you joy. This is what is known as the Kon Marie method. I feel that this method works alongside the three-category method. The difference being the Kon Marie method is often tackled in a small amount of time.
That is the three reasons and the three methods but the idea of actually downsizing may be a bit overwhelming. Where do you start? How do you keep going when you hit that wall that always comes? Here are my THREE top tips for staying on the course.
- Know your why. Don’t just think spatially. Think about how you want to live in your space. Use this as an opportunity to consider a reset to create a new lifestyle. Here are THREE good questions to consider
- How do I want to live in my new space?
- What opportunities will downsizing create?
- What are the main reasons for downsizing?
- Unless you are following the Kon Marie Method to the letter, take it in small chunks and start small so that you experience a few little accomplishments and practice the rhythm of sorting. THREE good places to start…
- A junk drawer
- DVDs and CDs – If you are comfortable with today’s technology most of these can go.
- Match up containers and pots and pans with their lids – you can donate all the unmatched
- Allow the feels. Our things sometimes bring up memories and emotions. Give yourself space to feel these things. The non-sentimental items are easy to toss, donate or sell, but the sentimental items can be a bit more difficult. Here are THREE tips for sorting the more feely items…
- Storyworth is a tool that I have seen that would be an amazing gift to share with future generations that may be much appreciated.
- Take pictures and digitalize pictures, notes, and cards that are meaningful but don’t need to take up physical space. Legacy Box is one way to capture all of these in one place.
- Try not to take it personally when your loved ones don’t put the same value on some of your most treasured pieces. I talk about this in “The Good News is Our Kids Have Learned To Value Experiences…”
Downsizing and decluttering are not just for moving anymore. Both can be a huge upgrade to any lifestyle. Doing both…and either… can make living spaces less work, safer, and more enjoyable to be in. But downsizing and decluttering can also be stressful and emotional. Following the Threes of Downsizing can help. You can also ask for professional help. Check out all the ways Sugar & Space can help you move through the downsizing and decluttering journey.