8 tips that will help you downsize in retirement
Downsizing can help make life more manageable in retirement, but it can also be quite the chore, requiring a lot of research, planning and preparation. We’ve taken a look at eight simple things you can do to help navigate this complicated process and downsize in retirement without the stress.
1. Take inventory
How can you know what you need to get rid of if you don’t even truly know what you own? Be as specific as you need to when taking inventory. You’ll probably be surprised to find out how long your list of possessions has become, which in and off itself might make it easier to jettison some things.
2. Designate a starting point
The hardest part is getting started, and when you do so it’s important to not have a scattershot approach. Make a list with a designated starting point and focus your attention on one area. A focussed, dedicated approach is crucial in terms of getting started and building up momentum.
3. Trash, sell and give away
Don’t be afraid to say goodbye to stuff you don’t need. This could be quite profitable if there’s anything you own that you can sell, and if you can’t bear to throw that old sundress in the trash consider giving it to one of your girlfriends or even your granddaughter as a gift.
4. Perform 6 month test
A great way to separate items that you may use from items that you definitely don’t need is applying the “6 month test” which is asking yourself whether you’ve used it in the last six months. If you haven’t, then odds are this is the sort of item that can be jettisoned without too much heartache.
5. Hanger trick
The hanger trick is a good way to get rid of clothing you don’t need. Hang every item in your closet backwards and wait a period of time (3, 6 or 12 months) then when you come back and check, throw out any items that haven’t been turned back because that means you haven’t used them.
6. Set timer
The entire downsizing process can be overwhelming, so instead of trying to tackle it in one big chunk break it down into manageable portions of 45 minutes. There’s no rush and as long as you keep at it over a period of time we think you will eventually find that you have made some real headway.
7. Scan paper then shred it
If you’ve got any paper items that you don’t necessarily need but would like to hang onto don’t be afraid to commit them to the paper shredder. The first thing you should do though is scan them. This way they’re preserved forever and you can always print them out if you need them again.
8. Decluttering party
Downsizing can be a pretty lonely task as well, so why not call a few friends to make the process more enjoyable! Having friends help you through your old possessions is always nice and can help you say goodbye to some of the more sentimental items you’re getting rid of.
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