This is a great question and one I usually get from people who are moving. However, most people think it’s something that one does when you get older… something to consider doing between your mid-60’s to mid-70’s.
Downsizing isn’t about age. Sometimes it’s about quality of life, needing or wanting more room, feeling overwhelmed by the amount of stuff and/or making your surroundings safer. I could go on and on with reasons why people contact us to help them downsize but the bottom line is you don’t have to wait until you’re a senior citizen or moving to get started.
Downsizing is often triggered by life changes: The good, bad and ugly. Some common reasons are:
o Kids moving out:
Go through their things with them. Give them their “stuff” and have them get rid of the things you kept for them that they have no interest in.
o Kids moving back in:
Time to make some room so that they can feel at home once again.
o Renovations:
A perfect time to get rid of those things that no longer serve you.
o Marriage:
Combining two homes and needing to make space for everyone’s “stuff”.
o Having a baby:
Time to make room for the newest member of the family.
o Health Changes:
An injury can change the way you navigate your home. For example, if there is a need for a walker or wheelchair (whether temporary or permanently) you’ll need to make safe pathways throughout the home and that might mean having to get rid of things that are in the way.
Downsizing isn’t just about giving things up…it’s about freeing up space, ridding yourself of things that you no longer want or need. While any time is a good time, do it when and while you can. Do it when going through your belongings is your choice. Don’t wait until there’s pressure to get it done or a health event forces a quick decision.
Yes…downsizing is definitely something that we should think about and prepare for as we get older but, young or old, getting it done before it’s necessary is so important and has real advantages.
Remember…Less is More! The less you have, the less you have to take care of. It is truly amazing how freeing it is to let go of the excess. It also frees up time so you can spend time doing thing that you enjoy.
Downsizing is something we should all be doing regularly. The problem is that it’s not much fun for most people so it doesn’t happen often enough. Then it gets out-of-control and more difficult to tackle on your own.
Enter Professional Organizers. Fortunately, we do think its fun and we want to help people get out from under the voluminous amount of stuff that we all tend to accumulate. We don’t care how old you are, or aren’t, whether you’re moving or not. We’re just thrilled to be able to help make your home feel peaceful. A place where you can relax, welcome guests, find things when you need them. Doesn’t that sound great?
Bottom line is that you “should” downsize not because you have to, but because you want a home that supports how you want to live.