The decision to downsize never comes easy, but luckily, almost always it turns out to be the greatest thing. The mere thought of moving is horrifying enough, not to mention the planning, organization, and decision making along the way. Scary as it sounds, it is a venture that many people undertake for a reason and, as you can guess already, it is worth it. Same as for any big change in life, it is a process that is complicated and even exhausting, but on the other hand, a change of lifestyle in ‘’less’’ direction will turn out to be liberating and rewarding in so many ways.
Before the move
Moving starts weeks ahead, even months in some cases. Organizing a project big as this takes the time to make a detailed plan, especially when downsizing. Go through the rooms and slowly begin to say good bye by choosing the stuff that will not end up in your new home. If you are moving with your family, make sure you have an agreement on downsizing goals so that you could avoid misunderstandings and hurt feelings. Now is the time to picture the style of new home and to move forward by eliminating the stuff which will not fit in.
Determine your needs
Know your needs and decide on the spot what goes and what stays. For example, if you are moving from a house with three bedrooms to a condo with one, the math is simple. Assuming you know the measurements of a new home, make sure that your belongings will fit the place, especially big pieces of furniture. Make an inventory of essentials that you will require in your new place and get rid of the all the rest. Cruel thing to do, but if downsizing already, why not doing it right. Downsize on everything you own, including furniture, clothes, accessories or home appliances.
Monetize your efforts
One of the obvious benefits of ‘’less’’ is the lower cost of living in general. Since it is one of the most important motifs of downsizing, take a step further and earn some money by organizing a yard sale and cash in all the unwanted items. Being reasonable and consistent with this exhausting process deserves a reward, so treat yourself with some extra pocket money that you can wisely invest in your new home. Donate some stuff to charity and remember that your junk will bring a smile to someone’s face.
Assess new storage area
People often overlook or overestimate new storage area ending up with more stuff than planned in a less place than previously thought. By knowing measurements of storage places in the new home, you will know how many things to dispose of and avoid cluttering the space. However, it is possible that there won’t be enough room for all of your possessions. For that matter, consider renting a storage where you’ll store your belongings away, but still in the reach, if needed. Before you rent a storage check on their standards and safety issues, but rest assure that the most of the best affordable storage solutions provide good storing conditions as well as video surveillance.
Move
Make sure to move the furniture first and put it in its designated place. That way you will deal with the heaviest pieces in the very beginning and still have the energy for the rest of the stuff while at the same time you’ll get a better indication where the smaller items will go. Moving the furniture first will give you an immediate a sense of home plus, it will be easier to organize the rest of incoming stuff. Label the boxes while packing so that you can put them in their respective rooms when moving. Organize things as you unpack which won’t be much of the trouble if you bring only essentials.
Spruce up your new place
The new home is a chance for a completely new style and interior design. Now is the time to make your home functional and sophisticated by going minimal. Repurpose old furniture or have a new one that will be a better match. Make sure to get pieces with hidden storage, such as coffee tables, couches, etc. A clever use of space is a must so go vertical when storing things and install some nice shelves.
Make room bigger
Use tricks to make the room more spacious than it is. Uncover the floor and place smaller rugs. Uncover windows too and allow as many natural lights as possible. Place the mirrors on the walls and use lighter colors of fabrics. Choose stripes or some geometrical patterns since they elongate the space. A proper lighting will give a room completely new look in the evening hours. Avoid excessive accessory and beautify the room with minimal and tasteful decoration.
Conclusion
While still in the process of downsizing, no matter how scary it seemed at first, you will soon realize the advantages and the truth that lies behind the ‘’less is more’’. Changes are inevitable so why not changing for the better. Downsizing brings a relief regarding the expenses and provides a new opportunity to start over again somewhere else. Not to mention the joy of cleaning and simplicity of maintaining order in much smaller space. Whatever the reasons for downsizing are, be an optimist, embrace the change and take this chance to improve the quality of life.
By Ian Pearson