Even those who don’t feel especially sentimental about their homes can become emotional when it comes to moving and downsizing. But why is moving so emotional? Downsizing comes with many great benefits to your finances and your family. However, in order to reap the benefits, you must first let go of your attachment.
Have you already begun your downsizing journey and want to know what to keep or toss, check out this article.
Why is Moving so Emotional?
Emotional Reasons That Prevent Downsizing
Deciding to downsize can be very difficult and following through can be even harder. But understanding why it is so hard could be the catalyst you need to move on from a home that’s not the best fit for you anymore. Here are some reasons homeowners can feel emotional about downsizing:
- Leaving Memories: You may have raised children and made a bunch of memories in your home. The thought of leaving them behind can trigger emotions you may not have realized were there. But there will be new memories at your new location.
- Guilt From Family: Your adult children may also have emotions triggered by their childhood memories. This can make you feel guilty for moving on. But there are always pictures.
- Afraid of Change: The unknown is scary and downsizing can seem overwhelming, but when your plan starts coming together your fears should subside.
- Keeping Up with the Joneses: Moving to a smaller home may be humbling on a certain level, especially if those in your social circle still live in large houses and don’t understand your decision. This may feel embarrassing or even shameful. But just know you are making the right decision for yourself.
Benefits of Downsizing
Before you get too down thinking about the emotional aspects, let’s go over the benefits of downsizing. Moving into a smaller, less expensive house could make life easier and less stressful. It could also help you make progress towards certain financial goals by saving money in a smaller house. For example, you could use some money from selling your large home and put it towards your retirement. Other benefits include:
- Save money on utilities
- Less upkeep and maintenance
- Eliminate clutter
- Freer lifestyle
- Start a new chapter of life
- Be closer to the things that are important
- Eliminate debt by selling your home
What Does Downsizing Look Like?
Think for a moment about your home. Is it a four-bedroom you bought 10 years ago when your children were still young? Do you really need all 3,000 square feet?
Even though you have worked hard for what you have, you never seem to have enough money to take that long-needed vacation. But once you sell your large home, it’s time to live the life you’ve always wanted. With lower monthly bills and maintenance you can finally travel like you’ve wanted to for so long.
Looking to learn more about downsizing and decluttering your home? Click the icon below to download your FREE copy to Unlock the Power to Declutter: The Definitive Guide on How to Start so you can get cleaning!
Confident Living is a continuing care at home membership program, focused on helping you remain active and independent as you age in your own home. We serve the greater Cincinnati area. For more information, contact us online or call (513) 719-3522.