Downsizing is difficult for everyone, regardless of our age, with a lifetime of memories being associated with our possessions and thus throwing them away feels akin to discarding our precious memories. However, downsizing is usually an inevitable process, and while it can be particularly tough for seniors who may have a stronger attachment to their possessions, downsizing remains to be an increasingly important process, especially if considering the shift to independent living, with less storage space available. Hence, here are a few tips for downsizing if you are considering a move to independent living in Bixby, OK.
Mindset
Downsizing has a negative connotation; it often is associated with the act of discarding and removing, and no one would truly be comfortable with discarding any of our precious possessions which we have valued over the years. Instead of seeing this as an act of discarding your possessions, change your mindset and see it as an opportunity for you to streamline your possessions to only the things which are truly essential or precious to you. Not only would this help you in your process of downsizing for your move, but this also allows you to truly value and appreciate the memories special to you.
Part by Part
Avoid downsizing the entire house in one go. While this may appear more efficient, this results in more pressure on you, both physically and mentally. Instead of downsizing everything in a day, plan it months in advance and begin downsizing room by room in advance. Do this in small stretches and take your time with this process, and this should help you have a clearer mind during the downsizing process!
Essentials
The most important aspect of downsizing, simply put is your ability to identify your needs, and discard whichever item is unnecessary to you. Many of us would have several items which we may be unsure about discarding, do not do this. Follow the only handle it once rule, whereby the less decisive you are about what to do with an item, the more attached you become to said item. Do not overthink your decision, this would affect the quality of the downsizing process, and only pick items that have special meaning to you or are essential to your daily life.
Prioritize practicality, do not pick items based on how new they are, but rather on how much you rely on them and focus on how much you can use these items. Think about its practical usage around the house, when it was last used, and who would use it, and use these thoughts to gain a clearer idea of how to manage the downsizing of your possessions.
Professional Help
If you are still struggling with downsizing, why not consider hiring some professionals to do the job for you? Senior move managers are specialized in helping older adults move and are skilled in balancing emotional value and practicality in deciding how to downsize. From sorting and packing your possessions to moving and unpacking, many different services are available for downsizing and should be considered if you fear you are losing a part of your identity in your move. Hire the professionals, and sit back and enjoy this new chapter of your life!
Independent Living At Country Club At Woodland Hills
Here at Country Club At Woodland Hills, our independent living program is created with your happiness and well-being in mind. Enjoy our wide range of wonderful amenities and comfortable accommodations, along with outstanding social and recreational events. Embrace this new chapter of your life and join us now! Feel free to contact us if you have any further inquiries and we hope to see you soon!
