The Complex Emotions in Downsizing a Home

This article was originally printed in the St. Mary’s Prime Life for Seniors magazine.

Downsizing a home, whether from necessity or wanting to simplify, is an experience flooded with emotions. Some of these may be the anticipation of moving closer to loved ones or to an area that has many benefits.

Having to move out of necessity is often more difficult. Often a person is moving from a home that they have lived in for years and raised their children. The home is a history –where pictures of the past come back as if one is watching a movie of her life. In either case, emotions may surface that need to be recognized and understood by the home owner, as well as by the family and friends involved.

How Others Can Help

1. Be willing to empathize and talk about the hard emotions. Don’t try to make them go away by giving pep talks. Validating one’s feelings often makes it easier to let go.
2. Recognize the possessions that must be sorted and divided represent a person’s history. Be kind. Refrain from remarks such as, “Why don’t you just throw all this stuff away?”
3. Take pictures or videos of the yard and house, relating the history and interesting thoughts as you go. Photograph a sentimental item that can’t go along.
4. Find “happy homes” for what is to be given up; for instance, with a family member, friend, or neighbor who would enjoy the item, knowing it came from you. Other options include donation or consignment shops. Yard sales can work, but the energy and time involved may be too much.
5. Write a list of reasons why the move is being made. It will help keep everyone focused.

Questions to Help Decide What to Keep

1. Consider your new space; will it fit?
2. Will I really use it? Has my life, situation, or interest changed?
3. Does it bring me joy? Is it truly sentimental?

Henry David Thoreau says, “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.”

Clutter-free & Organized, Mary Pankiewicz, can be a big help with a move. Mary works hands-on with clients, assisting in the decision making process, packing, and unpacking. Clutter-free & Organized does not have a judgmental attitude about other people’s decisions—unlike some family members!

In addition to bringing expertise and organizing skill to the project, Mary knows the right questions to ask, making it easier for the home owners to make the right decision for themselves.

Mary Pankiewicz can be reached at 865-607-9460. She will be glad to answer any questions about your future move. Mary has been in business for over 10 years and recently became a Certified Professional Organizer in the field of Chronic Disorganization.