The Art of Downsizing: Simplifying Your Move

Moving to a new home represents a fresh start. However, it presents its unique set of challenges as you have to figure out things like what to move or give away, the logistics of moving and so much more. The secret to a simpler stress-free move is discovering the art of downsizing.

With all the chaos of the day-to-day hustle and bustle of life, it is important to create a serene space that will give you a sense of calmness as soon as you step into it. Here is what you need to know about the art of downsizing.

Get Started Early

A move always has a set date. There is no way you are going to postpone a move unless there is an emergency. Postponing a move will have cost implications. Professional moving companies usually work with dates, and once your date is missed, you may also have to wait longer as they also have other clients to take care of. It is important that you start sorting through your home as early as possible. Get started at least three months before the move, that way, you can have time to purge your house without feeling pressured.

Put It on the Calendar

Downsizing can be complex. Sometimes downsizing is a choice and other times it is forced by circumstances. It can come out of the need to compromise or the need to feel liberated. When downsizing is borne out of unforeseen circumstances, there is likely to be a feeling of mixed emotions. Prioritizing and mapping out your goals will help you in downsizing effectively. Creating a schedule that indicates your busy, productive, and rest days can help you evaluate your progress even as you deal with the emotions that come with the downsizing decision.

Focus on One Room at a Time

Downsizing in most cases involves decluttering. Decluttering your entire home all at once can be a daunting task. Breaking it down into smaller projects is more realistic and manageable and will also help in simplifying your move. When downsizing, focus on one room at a time. A brilliant idea is to start with the rooms that you least use like the attic, garage, or guest room. Decide what to keep or get rid of in all of these spaces. Pack and deep clean as much as you can before moving into the next room.

Separate the Treasured Items

 How do you single out your treasured items when downsizing before a move? Your attitude and motivation to complete the task are both important. In deciding whether to keep an item or not, think of whether you have an emotional connection with it. Additionally, think of how memorable or cherished the item is, and if it has been passed down through generations. If you are struggling to remember an item and have no emotional connection with it, then you can as well let it go.

Be Realistic

 The art of downsizing also involves being realistic and looking at the practical side of things. You may have been enjoying a huge space in your current residence but are about to move into a smaller apartment. If you are looking to change your lifestyle and move into a clutter-free space, then there’s no need to keep the things that you will not be using. Look at everything you own through a new perspective, think of creating a new clutter-free lifestyle, and most importantly, remember that you want to simply your move.

Gift What You Cannot Keep

Some sentimental items will obviously not have space in your new residence. If you want to keep track of an item or at least see it, or even have it back in the future, how about gifting it to your family members or friends? Gifting family or friends will make them feel valued and you can also rest assured that you gave your items a good home. Be sure to arrange pick up of the items at least two weeks before a move to enable a smooth transition.

Donate

If your family and friends aren’t interested in certain items, consider donating them to a worthy charitable organization. It could be a piano, a piece of furniture, or even some clothes. Donating to the less fortunate will help them feel good and you can also be certain that the items will be put to some good use.

Embrace the Changes

Thinking of all the giveaways and donations can make you feel a bit sentimental. You may have to leave some treasured items behind to simplify your move. However, it is important to have a positive attitude. Your relocation will be easier when you embrace the art of downsizing. Additionally, downsizing will give you an opportunity to get a fresh start in a different home and with a new lifestyle. A minimalist lifestyle offers you a chance to try out other designs that could only have been on your wish list.

Benefits of Downsizing

• The art of minimalist moving helps you make a smoother transition.
  
• Downsizing helps you to become more creative with your space, meaning that you make maximum use of it. For example, you can get multi-functional furniture pieces, create vertical spaces for storage, or get wall-mounted storage spaces. Besides moving into a more creative and serene environment.
  
• Downsizing helps you have a simpler way of life with a less cluttered life and easier access to possessions.
  
• Improves mental health by helping you create a space that you can easily clean and maintain.
  
• Downsizing will significantly help you cut down on utility costs.

While downsizing for a move may feel intimidating, with the right professionals on board, it can be a less stressful affair. A move manager or a transition expert can help you through the entire process. They can help you identify what items you want to keep or let go. Additionally, they can help you come up with efficient packing and unpacking strategies and give you insights on where to take unwanted items. Downsizing isn’t easy but with the right attitude and support, you will be surprised at how much you enjoy a more simplified lifestyle.

Also visit Digital Global Times for more quality informative content.