Ever wondered if you just have too much stuff? Or, on the flip side, maybe too much space?
If either of those thoughts have crept into your mind, you’re probably right. But there are ways you can work through it and experts who can help. According to Sharyn Willard, owner of Mature Transitions of Tulsa, the issue is common, and the solution isn’t as tough as you may think.
“Downsizing is the process of simplifying one’s living situation, often by moving to a smaller, more manageable space,” she says. “People choose to downsize for a variety of reasons: it may be to reduce upkeep, eliminate excess belongings, cut costs or make a fresh start in a new location. For many, downsizing is a natural step as they transition into a new phase of life, such as retirement.”
The act of downsizing comes with its struggles, says Willard.
“Many people feel a strong connection to their possessions, especially if they hold sentimental value or are tied to memories – especially if they remind them of someone that has passed away,” she says. “They don’t want their belongings to end up in a dumpster. Another challenge is the overwhelming feeling that can arise when faced with the volume of items to sort through.”
Downsizing offers numerous benefits, from financial savings and less home maintenance to a simplified, more intentional way of living.
“Downsizing can also offer an opportunity to live closer to family, access better amenities, or enjoy a fresh space tailored to one’s current lifestyle, says Willard. “Once the downsizing process is in force, or completed, there will be a sense of stress relief.”
Willard suggests putting a positive spin on downsizing: viewing it as “an opportunity rather than a loss,” she says.
Downsizing specialist Anna Novak with Home Transition Pros says that the most common thing she hears from clients is that they “just don’t know where to start. I help clients prioritize the belongings they currently need and use on a daily basis, preserve the possessions that matter the most to them, and let go of the rest.”
Novak adds that downsizers often struggle with decision fatigue and not knowing where to find qualified services to help with selling, donating or managing the logistics of a move.
“Many of my clients are downsizing the family home and need to let go of 80% or more of their belongings,” she says. “My clients are usually so relieved when they are settled into their new space, and they often say they wished they had done it sooner. A large home and lots of accumulated possessions eventually turn into a burden for people, and they are happy to move on from the physical and emotional work of maintaining the family home.”
Older couples are not the only happy recipients of downsizing help, says Novak.
“Adult children also appreciate having a trusted professional handle the day-to-day details,” she says. “Many are busy with their own jobs or families or live far away, so having someone manage the transition allows them to reclaim their role as a supporter rather than a taskmaster.”
