Downsizing and decluttering in Denver has been a big part of my clients lives over the past few years. Whether they are moving to Denver or within Denver, some have been empty nesters, some wanted a lifestyle change.
We have talked a lot about letting go of the clutter, you know, the unpacked boxes in the basement, the extra nicknacks that went out of style in 1999, the fact that our kids don’t want the antiques that their grandmother’s grandmother have passed down.
When I downsized 6 years ago, it was out of necessity. My son was off to college and I was moving. We had a lot of toys and many boxes of art projects and homework. Things that weren’t needed or wanted in a new house didn’t get packed.
Once you start letting go, you start feeling invigorated and liberated!
1. Concentrate on the benefits
When you begin decluttering and downsizing, you should constantly remind yourself of the freedom this will actually bring you. You won’t have an excess in physical things weighing you down or taking up valuable space – both in your home and mentally in your mind.
Don’t focus on what you’re losing. Look at what you’re gaining. Downsizing can equal a lower mortgage or rent per month, freeing up your budget for things like traveling and other experiences.
2. Stay focused on needs, not wants
When deciding to downsize, stay focus on the things that are absolutely essential.
Follow the one year rule. If you haven’t used something in over a year, chances are you’re not going to use it this year either.
Begin by sorting your items by category, not location. Go through clothing, appliances, shoes, books and then focus on sentimental items last.
3. Does it spark joy?
Marie Kondo’s catchphrase is “does it spark joy?” doesn’t resonate with everyone. The idea is that if an item doesn’t bring you joy, you shouldn’t hold on to it.
Think about it. Focus on the easy items to get rid of first and then work your way up to the items you’ve been hoarding. While our possessions can act as an extension of ourselves, sometimes we hold on to items we haven’t used in years leading to clutter.
4. Utilize creative and effective storage options
Challenge your creativity with different storage configurations in order to maximize your living space. Think hide-away bins underneath your bed (if it’s too low, considering buying risers!), storage benches in entryways, closet shelves, and shoe racks, and storage ottomans.
5. Everything should have its place
“Everyone has a place in their house for forks. If you found a random fork in the bathroom or under the couch, you’d immediately know it didn’t belong there and would return it to its drawer without another thought. Everything in your life should be this easy to put away. If an item occupies no specific location when not in use, it becomes clutter.” – Steve McClatchy, author of Decide: Work Smarter, Reduce Your Stress, and Lead By Example
Are you thinking of downsizing? I can help you take the next steps.
