How To Downsize Successfully
Enjoying a care-free retirement is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Like most good things though, it takes some planning to make it happen. Set yourself up for success by taking the time to choose the right senior living community for the life you want. Then, make sure to declutter and organize in advance of your big move. Here are a few tips as you begin downsizing your home for retirement.
Choosing Your New Home
Take a moment to imagine what you’d like your life to be like ten years from now. Are you reclining on the beach? Strolling through the city? Maybe you’re relaxing in comfort, or enjoying an active lifestyle? What is your budget to make this dream a reality? Keep in mind both the initial investment in your new home, as well as any potential ongoing costs like utilities or insurance.
Having a clear objective will keep you motivated and assist in planning as you sort through your belongings, deciding what to keep and what to discard. For example, if you’re moving to a warm climate, you can leave heavy winter coats behind. Similarly, if your new community will be handling lawn maintenance, your move will be a good opportunity to sell the mower and weed whacker.
Make a list of what you want to experience in this next chapter of your life. Having something to look forward to and plan for will be invaluable as you go through the process of choosing a senior living community and preparing for your move.
Take The Time to Declutter
Organizing your belongings now will save you countless hours of frustration and headaches down the road. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Tackle your home step by step, taking on each room or type of belongings separately. Having smaller, more short-term goals gives you both a more immediate sense of accomplishment, as well as helps break up the task into manageable parts.
Set Aside a Moment to Say Goodbye
Letting go of belongings, even those that we no longer use or don’t serve a purpose, can be tough. In her renowned self-help guide to tidying up, Marie Kondo encourages readers to acknowledge the significance that objects have held in our lives: “By giving gratitude, you’re giving closure to the relationship with that object, and by doing so, it becomes a lot easier to let go.”
Struggling to part with that shirt tucked away in your closet? It may feel trivial, but take a moment and think back on all the times it brought you joy. Acknowledge its role in your life, that it has served its purpose, and bid it a fond farewell. Giving objects a proper send-off can ease the process of letting go.
Phone a Friend (or a Pro!)
You don't have to manage this journey solo. Inviting a friend over for the afternoon can make sorting through belongings more enjoyable and keep you motivated (having someone to hold you accountable is a game-changer!).
Alternatively, consider tapping into the expertise of real estate agents and professional organizers — they're invaluable resources for helping seniors downsize. Organizations like the National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers can connect you with reputable services in your area.
For a more personalized recommendation, reach out to our helpful staff at Clarendale Six Corners. We are more than happy to offer suggestions based on previous resident experiences. Incoming residents to our community also receive complimentary one-on-one consulting services from a personal relocation manager, courtesy of Moving Station.
Moving into Clarendale Six Corners
Our expert team is here to make moving into Clarendale Six Corners as easy as possible. Along with our moving and downsizing partnerships, we can offer expert advice and solutions as you start on your downsizing journey.
And once you’re here, you can live life to the fullest with our many floor plan options, delicious dining choices and a full range of activities and amenities to keep you as busy as you’d like.
Explore the vibrant and active senior living community of Clarendale Six Corners and learn if our luxurious, maintenance-free lifestyle is right for you. To schedule a personal tour, submit the form below.