KonMari Inspired Tips for Downsizing

I have moved 12 times in 10 years, including hemispheres on more than one occasion. Crazy? Maybe, but I can honestly say one type of change I am okay with is changing my space. Packing, moving and setting up a new home is my jam. And now, as a KonMari Consultant downsizing is easy. So I am sharing my top downsizing tips!

1. Reduce before you move.

In an interview with Domain.com.au  I was shocked by how many people reduce when they arrive in a new home. Decluttering before moving means; you have less to relocate; less to stress over, and your home is more presentable for sale or inspection.

2. Set an intention.

Before embarking on a downsizing journey take a moment to ask yourself why. What are your reasons, what are you working towards? It could be that you want less to put away after your family (I hear this often from stay-at-home and part-time parents). Maybe you’re sick of lugging bags and want to travel lighter. Whatever your intention, actively bring it front of mind through the downsizing process.

3. Recognise when you are off track.

Moving is stressful, you will come off track from time to time. There is a likelihood at some point you will be frazzled in a sea of boxes fighting off mini breakdowns (basically my first overseas move experience). These moments are “decluttering danger zones”, when we can quickly fall into a discarding frenzy, overwhelmed with the experience and throw out too much. Only to regret our discards the next day and buy back items from charity stores! Watch yourself, enjoy the process and come back to your intention.

4. Own your Joy.

Decluttering decisions are to be made by you, no one else. No one can tell you how an item Sparks Joy for you, I can coach you through the process but I can’t make you feel something. Some of the strangest things give us joy, own it. Who cares what others think; if you love it, keep it. When downsizing a whole family, you will all need to be respectful of other’s joy. Following to keep on track, download our Moving Checklist: A Guide To Stree-free Moving!

Moving? Be prepared, make sure you know the Moving 101. And while you are at it, read up on Selling Secondhand Clothes.