On Downsizing

 

It seems that every source from newspapers and magazines to YouTube offers advice on how to downsize. As with most things, some advice is excellent, while others . . . not so good. Two ideas capture my attention:

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*  “If someone broke in and stole everything, what five things would you miss the most?”

*  “Set up four boxes: keep, sell, give away, throw away.”

 

Actually, both of those ideas easily could be used together.

 

First, pick out the items that you love or need; keep those.

*  You might love a piece of art you picked up online or at a yard sale; keep it. Those cute tchotchkes that have sat on your tables and made dusting a nightmare might be ready for a new home, but judge each on its own merits. Do you really love it? If so, keep it. If not, find it a new home.

*  You will need dishware and cookware. Do you love the ones you have, or are they worn and need to be replaced? Revereware is a vintage treat, but new cookware cooks and cleans up much more easily and isn’t always expensive.

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Second, decide how to dispose of the rest.

*  Some items just might bring in a nice sum (like that vintage Revereware), which would help you as you move ahead. Sell those. Others might not be especially nice, but furniture refinishers love to pick up damaged items to restore. Don’t be too quick to give or throw them away.

*  Some items might make nice gifts to family members (Granny’s old mantel clock, for example), while others would be welcome at a charity thrift shop, where they can raise money to help people in need.

*  Some, of course, would not be welcome anywhere; in fact, you’ve probably wondered why you still have them. Throw those away. Include old sheets, towels, and underclothing in this group (Would you want someone else’s old linens or underclothing? I wouldn’t).

 

Third, make a commitment not to buy all new things to replace the clutter you just sold, gave, and threw away. Your linen closet will not cry if it is not stuffed to the gills with Granny’s old satin, down-filled comforter.

 

Now that the clutter is gone, give yourself a hearty pat on the back, draw in a deep breath of fresh air, and enjoy a good, joyful laugh.

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