Until the downsizing process begins, most people have been”accumulating“, that is, buying things first for themselves, and later in life for the children, and rarely throwing things away. Nowadays, children are not usually at home anymore, and you are probably no longer accumulating things at the rate In fact, for many this is the first time in their lives that they have actually had to devalue or sell things to gain more space.
It can be quite difficult if there are two of you to share the reduction process. It can be significantly more difficult if only one of you will be involved in the process. For many, the key is to simply get started. Once you start, the process will be more fluid and will even pick up momentum as you see yourself progressing.
Remember, your ultimate goal here is to simplify your life. This item includes 11 tips to reduce the size of the home designed to help you get started with your home downsizing process and to simplify your life. Our next article will provide 16 Downsizing Tips and Strategies designed to keep you moving…once you’ve started the process of downsizing your home.
• Reducing the size of the house is not an easy process. Rather, it is an ongoing process, something that will likely take many months to complete successfully.
• Take your time. The downsizing process does not happen overnight. It has taken him much of his life to accumulate his house full of goods and memories. Don’t expect to complete the home downsizing process quickly.
• Usually plan at least 6 months in advance. As we said, this process will take time, both physically and mentally.
• Planning is crucial. Don’t jump in blindly. Think about what you want to do and think about the best way to achieve what you want to do. Establish an action plan.
• Develop a classification system. Develop your own ranking system. Although we generally recommend up to 10 classification categories in our consultations and workshops, you should classify in any meaningful way that works for you. Color-coded labels, magic markers, computer spreadsheets, keeping detailed lists, building stacks, and taking digital images can all be helpful. Use what works best for you.
• If in doubt, save it for now. Once it’s gone, it’s gone and you can’t get it back. You can always sell it at a later date if you change your mind. When in doubt, put it in the “Hold“stack for now.
• You are allowed to change your mind. Expect him to change his mind many times over the next few months. One day you will want to keep something because of the memories attached to it. The next day you will want to throw it away. That is perfectly normal and acceptable. You can change your mind as many times as you want. But put it in the “Keep It” stack until you’re sure.
• Double your initial estimated time. Unless you have experience downsizing homes, take your initial estimated time…and double it.
• Remember that you are in charge. Family and friends can, and should, be involved in your decisions. However, you are the one who ultimately must live with these decisions. And you must be the final decision maker.
• Be patient. It probably took you 10-20-30+ years to accumulate all the items in your home. Don’t expect to get rid of everything in a few days. It often takes 6 to 12 months to complete a full reduction.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. This process is easier for some people than others. If you are going through a difficult time, don’t be afraid to ask your friends and loved ones for help.
Tags: Home Downsizing, Home Downsizing Consultant, Home Downsizing Tips, Michael Ivankovich