Changing needs and desires are a fact of life, and it follows that the home you bought when you were 35 may not be the best option later in life. Perhaps your family has outgrown the home or it’s just too much house now. That’s why it’s important to periodically re-evaluate your needs. If you think it may be time for a move, we’ve got some helpful rightsizing tips to share with you!
What is Rightsizing? Rightsizing is NOT just another way of saying downsizing. It entails adjusting the scale or configuration of your space to better meet your needs. That could mean moving into:
A bigger home with an entertainment-ready backyard
A smaller home with no yard to maintain
A more accessible home
A motorhome ready for adventure
Etc.
“Rightsizing is the conscious choice to design a life that focuses on what really matters to you and then work to eliminate the rest. So instead of merely downsizing (often seen as a sacrifice) rightsizing is moving toward what is more fulfilling and beneficial.”
– Kathy Gottberg, Smart Living 365
When Rightsizing Means Downsizing Sometimes rightsizing does mean moving into a smaller space, and there are plenty of good reasons to do it. Here’s how you know when it’s the right time to downsize:
When you’re feeling uncomfortable or unsafe in your space
When the amount of stuff in your home is too difficult to manage
When the time and energy spent on maintenance is taking away from your quality of life
When the cost of utilities, taxes, and upkeep is straining your budget
When what is important to you in a home or community has shifted
Planning Your Move Whether you are getting more space or less in your new home, you’ll need a plan if you want the move to go smoothly. Here are some tips that should help you get ready:
Identity Your Must-Keep Items: Start making decisions about your must-keep items even if you don’t have your new home yet. It’s never too early to start making a list of the items you know are nonnegotiable to go with you. You want to ensure that valuable or sentimental items are not lost! Going through this mental process will create a lot of clarity. You’ll know exactly how much stuff your new space needs to accommodate…and which things are most important to you.
Don’t Put Off Decision-Making: Do the hard work of decluttering before your move. It can be tempting to say “I’ll think about that once we’re in the new space.” But it will be much more beneficial if you make the tough choices ahead of your move. Decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard before you’re swept up in the chaos (and exhaustion) of the actual move.
Create Your New Vision: Once you have found your new home, be realistic and creative about what your new space can accommodate. You may have a king-size bed now, but in your new home, you might be more comfortable with a queen or full. Think about décor and what will or won’t work from what you already own. But, most importantly, this is a moment where you can redesign your future environment. So, don’t think about how much you can pack into the space. Instead, think about how you want it to look and feel. Then, only bring the items with you that support that vision.
Move Management There often comes a point during a move when too much is too much. It may be too much time, too much effort, or too much stress that makes you realize a little help would be nice. Bringing in a professional for the most difficult parts of the move process can help provide perspective and remind you of your goals.
Did you know a professional organizer can be a valuable resource during your downsized or rightsized move? We have a team of move management specialists who can guide you through the process and lend a hand wherever you need it.
We can help you:
Strategize
Make Decisions
Declutter
Organize
Donate
Pack/Unpack
And More
One final note, I downsized my own family a few years ago when we fulfilled our dream of moving to and living in Washington, DC. So I've been in your shoes. I know it can be hard, and I know it can be worth it!
If you’re thinking about a move, consider scheduling an Introduction Call!
Comments