Downsizing is the process of reducing your belongings before moving to a smaller home.
Downsizing is done for many reasons. Maybe your kids moved out and have been gone for a while, and you realize your house is too big for just you. Or, maybe you're planning on moving to a senior community.
Regardless of the reason, decreasing the amount of stuff you own doesn't have to be a battle. Here are some things to think about during the process.
Will you be moving again? If you're planning on moving again, you might want to get rid of more items. This will help future you in the moving process.
Take distance and location into account. If you're moving across the country, shipping all of your belongings can get expensive. Additionally, if you're moving somewhere with a milder climate, you might want to consider donating some of your cold-weather items. You probably won't need that parka in Florida.
Start early. The earlier you start, the less stressed you'll be. Focus on one thing at a time, whether it's books, clothes, or blankets. Make a list of what needs to be done, and take your time.
Donate, sell, or give away. If you have the time, energy, and ability, selling some of the things you don't need can give you a cushion when it's time to move.
Enlist family and friends. This gives you a chance to share stories and memories. It also allows you to give items away easier. If your daughter really likes something you're not keeping, you can give it away and not have to deal with donating it.