Getting Started
You know that ancient proverb about the long journey beginning with the first step? It’s applicable to downsizing too.
Even as a professional organizer I can also feel overwhelmed—by my belongings, my first drafts, my to-lists, my emotions. We all need help, and can benefit from a clear starting point, support, and resources.
Starting point: Since you’re here reading this blog post about downsizing, I think you’ve already found it. This is a great place to begin! Keep moving forward, no matter how small the steps.
Support: This can come in many forms and fit any budget. Here are a few of my favorites that are easy, accessible, and even fun!
Accountability buddies: Share your goal with a spouse, friend, family member, anyone you trust and ask them to check in on you by a certain time or date to see if you have accomplished the task(s). This approach is effective with most goals, and organizing is no exception.
Online groups: The internet isn’t just for cat videos and funny memes (although those are great). You can find some free support groups like Emily Rooney’s Happy Organized Life or Declutterathon. There are so many local, regional, and national groups like these—put your search engine to good use!
Create your own : Can’t find the exact group you’re looking for? Put the word out and let your tribe find you. People start book clubs, hiking groups, movie-viewing nights, you name it—so why not an organizing support group? Pick a platform, share your stories, and crowdsource ideas and solutions. You might be surprised by the number of kindred souls also seeking support and connection.
Resources: There are so many, but let’s start with basics and keep things simple. The more you dive in, the more you learn and explore and uncover a world of resources to help with any downsizing project.
Books: There’s no shortage of written work on the subjects of downsizing and home organizing. They can be useful tools on your path, but are no substitute for real productivity. I’ve seen clients fill their bookshelves (and windowsills, and dressers, and sometimes floors to ceilings) with books about decluttering, which only adds to the clutter. If I had to choose one, it would be Organizing From the Inside Out by Julie Morgernstern. From there you can branch out and do a deeper dive into the details.
SPACE: The biggest takeaway from Organizing From the Inside Out is the acronym SPACE, which stands for SORT, PURGE, ASSIGN, CONTAIN, EQUALIZE. If you can apply those rules in that order to your clutter, you’re well on your way to meeting your downsizing and organizing goals.
Donations: Need to find new homes for your stuff and don’t want it all to end up in a landfill? I got you. Check out the Resources section of my Contact page to learn more about local resources for your belongings.
Work with a professional: Yes, this is where a downsizing doula, professional home organizer, coach and/or editor could take you to the next level. If you’re still feeling overwhelmed or have hit a wall or plateaued with your efforts, call in some back up. It does take a village and there are so many experts who can help.
You’re not alone. So many people need help getting started on their downsizing goals and projects, and help is a click, email, or phone call away. If you think this is the right path for you, schedule a call or take a look at my resources page to see if another professional could help meet your specific needs.
