Downsizing your things can be an enormous undertaking. Especially, when you are downsizing for a big move. But how do you know what to downsize? Fortunately, figuring out what to downsize when you are moving can be simplified by asking six questions.
6 Questions for What to Downsize
Do You Need It?
This is the most important consideration and usually the easiest one to determine. Do you use the item regularly, as in every week? Then you clearly need the item. However, the idea of need can become pretty tricky.
Unfortunately, things like sentimentality can really get in the way of people letting go of objects they really don’t need. Many people convince themselves that they need the object because it is attached to a memory. This is particularly true of things that don’t actually have any use. You should feel no obligation to hang on to things that don’t serve a purpose, especially if gifting it or donating it could benefit someone else.
Have You Used It in the Last Year?
Alright, maybe you don’t use an item every week, but what about every year? Some items only get used during certain seasons and may not be useful year-round. Therefore, determine if you have used seasonal items within the last year.
Does It Still Work?
If you have used an item in the last year, does it still function properly? Does that old tent have a large tear in it? Does your old bike need repairing? Make sure the item can still be used and if not, it is something you could probably let go of.
Can You Replace It?
Say one of those items is broken or in some state of disrepair. Can you replace it? There is no sense in keeping an item that no longer works, but also don’t rush to replace it. Especially, if it is not the right season. You can probably wait until spring to replace that old canoe oar.
Should You Keep It Just In Case?
Remember the point of this project is to reduce your stuff and one of the big reasons people have trouble downsizing is because they hang onto items. If you are really struggling with some sentimental items, put it aside and revisit the item in a week or two. That way you might not be so overwhelmed as you were when beginning the process. Be sure to keep this collection of items small.
What to do Now?
Now, you can decide what you aim to do with the items you no longer need.
- Pass to Children
- Gift
- Donate
- Sell
- Recycle
- Toss
Ready to begin downsizing for your move? Here is the best FREE starter’s guide to beginning your next journey. Click the icon below to download your FREE copy to Real-Life Tips to Selling, Downsizing, & Moving.
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