Five Steps to Downsizing

Moving and downsizing can simplify your life, but the process of getting to a more streamlined lifestyle is anything but simple. Pairing down items you’ve spent a season or a lifetime collecting can be overwhelming and emotional. If you’re thinking about downsizing, you should think about hiring a move manager and following these steps to start the process.

1. Plan ahead. The best time to start downsizing is when you think you might be moving. If you wait until you’ve already made the decision you could create a time crunch that adds additional stress to your move. Here’s something else to keep in mind, it will likely take longer than you think. Don’t save it until the last minute.
2. Start with the least used room in the house. The guest bedroom is often a good starting point because it’s an easy space to see progress. Anything stored in that room is likely something that gets used once or twice a year so it’s easy to sort through, box up and be done with.
3. Work clockwise around the room. It’s the most efficient way to clear, purge and organize. Jumping all over the room increases the likelihood you’ll miss things or inadvertently block the door making it harder to move items.
4. Complete small tasks. Instant gratification can be a great motivator. Look for the low-hanging fruit, such as cardboard boxes that need to be broken down and put in recycling. That’s an easy task that clears a lot of space and motivates you to keep going. Here’s another small task, walk through the house and select five items you know you’re not going to move and start putting those things in boxes to donate.
5. Utilize a “body double.” When it’s time to move to more challenging rooms bring in a move manager, your body double, for support and accountability. I sit with clients and ask the hard questions to help them move through the decision-making process without getting stuck.

Completing steps 1-4 on your own will help you get the most bang for your buck when the organizer arrives. You’ll know exactly which room gives you the most trouble and where you need the most accountability. Your organizer will ask the right questions that help you let go of items that don’t need to be part of your new downsized space.

Plan ahead. The best time to start downsizing is when you think you might be moving. If you wait until you’ve already made the decision you could create a time crunch that adds additional stress to your move. Here’s something else to keep in mind, it will likely take longer than you think. Don’t save it until the last minute.

I can help you downsize and prepare for a move. Send an email to me at linda@unclutterednw.com and let’s talk about what’s on your mind.