February 2010

Move Into A New Way Of Thinking

A household move often involves a new start, a new area to explore, new friends and perhaps even new activities. If the move involves downsizing to a smaller place, it may also involve a new way of thinking. 

Before the move, it is important to begin imagining your new daily life. This will help you prepare mentally for the change as well as help you make decisions about how your present possessions fit into your new space and life. 

What’s involved in this new thinking?

• Simplify life - As responsibilities and activities change so do the items and accessories that go with them.   As you prepare to move, consider letting go of items you will not need or use in your new home.

• Downsize collections – When there are too many items in a small space, the display feels cramped and does not showcase well.  You do not have to get rid of the collection completely, but pick a few special pieces to highlight in your new space. If you have a storage area, you may choose to keep a few more  pieces and rotate them throughout the year.

• Be disciplined about using your space - Assign everything its own place.  When you pull an item out, be certain to put it back in the assigned location.

• Stay away from buying large quantities - Although this may have been a money saver in your larger space, it will cost you quantity and quality in your smaller space.

• Use vertical space to compensate for less floor space -  Hang items off the wall or under cabinets.  Suspend cabinets and shelving to add additional storage.

©February 2010 by Beth Giles