Rightsizing: The Joy of Less

The past several months have had us all rethinking our lives. We’ve spent a lot of time cooped up wondering what needs to stay and what needs to go...in our schedules and in our homes. For many of us, the pandemic has been a catalyst for change and simplification. We’ve learned what we can do without and in some cases, how that “without” can actually provide more joy than stress.

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When you rightsize your home you get to pick what feels right, what will create a sense of freedom in your life, and what will make the future easier for your loved ones.

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But the idea of downsizing our homes can conjure up feelings of deprivation. Our possessions tell our stories. We’ve built homes and raised children, kept up with the family memorabilia, stored the sentimental things, and hosted the large gatherings. The items that set on our shelves and in our china cabinets, or are cloistered away in our closets and attics, mean something. They provide comfort, a sense of identity, and capture the essence of home, not only for ourselves but for our children and their children. Imagining parting with those things...even those barely used...can feel unjust or upsetting. So we have to redefine that simplification. Throw out the term “downsizing”. It can be scary and overwhelming and who has time for that? Instead, rightsize your home. You get to pick what feels right, what will create a sense of freedom in your life, and what will make the future easier for your loved ones. Here are some ideas to help you get started.

1. Work Smart, Not Hard.
   Pick one time a week to go through your things. Map out your home in advance or just randomly pick an area to sift through. Spend a day or an hour...your preference...and clean out as much you can. Have receptacles ready to sort items into Keep, Give Away, and Toss and begin making notes of family members and friends to whom you are gifting things.

2. Enlist Your Imagination!
   Imagine different scenarios as you sort. Pretend you are moving abroad and can only take the most valuable items along with you. How does this change what you decide to keep or give away? Or imagine yourself giving specific items to family members and what joy it will bring them. Choose carefully so they can fully appreciate what you give without feeling overwhelmed themselves.

3. Unburden Yourself.
   If it’s broken, don’t fix it. That’s not entirely true, of course, but if the item is going to require too much time, effort, or expense to repair, consider letting it go. Get a second opinion if you’re not sure what needs to be done to salvage that old watch or mend that antique chair. But if an item complicates your life, rethink keeping it around. While you’re at it, unload yourself from possessions that are not your own. Grown children may have let their things take up real estate in your attic or garage for a little too long. Kindly remind everyone to come retrieve their things before they end up in one of your receptacles. When they come to fetch, enjoy the visit and recruit them to help you sort. 

Make rightsizing a pleasant experience. Listen to your favorite music or podcast while you work. Treat yourself to a great meal each day when you complete the job. Take advantage of the time at home by making your home the very best place you can spend your time.

If you’re approaching a life transition that’s causing you to think about rightsizing, you can know that The Porter Group has a multi-talented group of experts ready to walk you through selling your current home and buying your future one. We understand the decisions and emotions involved and we don’t expect you to go it alone. Find more information at https://www.tpg901.com/silver-transitions and contact us today for a consultation.