Downsizing For A Smaller Space
It is an unfortunate fact of life that some moves are necessitated by circumstances beyond our control. There may be various contributing factors: loss of a job, a divorce, death of a spouse, an empty nest, or another type of life change. Although a move to a smaller space can add even more stress, you can make the best of it if you have a plan.
If your situation is particularly emotional, you may want to consider asking a friend or family member to help with the sorting and packing, but it is important to choose wisely. If you ask someone who is very sentimental and emotional, you may become overwhelmed and find it too difficult to divest yourself of any items. However, if you go too far in the other direction and ask someone who is too impersonal, you may find yourself feeling resentful of the person’s lack of feeling. Ask someone who is sensitive and caring, as well as organized and efficient.
Sorting is a very useful strategy in a situation like this. Sort items into three categories: definitely keep, not sure, and definitely donate or sell. At the beginning, you may find yourself placing everything on the “definitely keep” list; if that is the case, you may need to take a step back and begin again. After you have found a few items to donate or sell, the idea of letting things go will get a little easier. If you are having a hard time finding anything to donate or sell, start with something easy, such as the vase you’ve never liked, or a pair of shoes that pinch your toes. Even the easy items count, so why not start with them?
It may also help to view the “donate or sell” pile as the “help someone make a fresh start” pile. That little table under your window could e a treasure for a single mom who scouts thrift shops to furnish an apartment for herself and her children. Similarly, if you send your old clothes to a homeless shelter, they could keep someone warm during the winter.
Sentimental items can be the most difficult to deal with. However, with a little creativity, you can find ways to preserve memories without cluttering your new space. If your parents’ china is too dear to you, why not save a few select pieces as mementoes rather than saving the entire set in boxes? You could use a platter to hold keys on your hall table and a cup and saucer for your morning coffee. This would allow you to save space and actually see and enjoy these items every day.
When it comes to sentimental items, you should also think function and storage. An old, treasured armoire could be used as an entertainment center. A lovely dresser could serve as a dining room buffet. Repurposing items like these can be an excellent way to preserve memories while adding beauty and functionality to your new home.
Even if your move is the result of a life change you did not choose, you have the opportunity to make it as positive as you can. Bring the good memories with you and look at your new living space as a fresh start.
