Ideal Age for Downsizing

Statistics show the best time to downsize is when we are in our 50's and

60's. We have the energy and stamina to get through the editing of

possessions. On average we have about 300,000 items in our homes. That is

a lot of things to touch and make decisions about.

In the beginnings of Designing Moves, I remember reading a statistic on the

downsizing process taking 2-3 years. That is keeping at it steadily. Some

experts suggest giving yourself one to five years to fully purge, especially if

you are not under immediate pressure to move.

There are always the items that trip us up – like whether to keep historical

family history items. The smallest things can trigger big emotional memories

– good and bad. Add in the relational challenges when a spouse or partner

does not agree with your decisions on what should go or stay.

My best advice is to keep at it no matter what your age. Try to find

something every day that needs to be donated, recycled, trashed, or

perhaps consigned. (Hint: if you and your partner or spouse are at

differences focus on you own items.) Keep the items moving – out of your

house and be picky about what you bring into your house.

Start Before You Need To:

This is precisely why starting the process before a crisis forces your hand is

crucial. Many wait until health issues, financial constraints, or the loss of a

spouse creates urgency. By then, emotional, and physical resources are

already strained.

Begin With Easy Categories:

Start with less emotional categories first. Kitchen duplicates, out-of-date

electronics, and clothing that no longer fits are excellent starting points.

Build your decision-making muscles before tackling sentimental items like

photographs and family heirlooms.

The "One Year" Rule:

If you have not used an item in a year, question its place in your future.

Seasonal items get a pass, but be honest about what truly adds value to

your life now—not what once did.

The Digital Solution:

For historical items and memorabilia, consider digitizing. Photos, documents,

and even recordings of stories about special objects can preserve memories

without preserving clutter. This approach honors the past while creating

space for your present life.

The Freedom Factor:

Remember what awaits on the other side of downsizing: freedom. Freedom

from maintenance, freedom to travel, freedom from the constant mental

weight of managing possessions. When we see clients after their move, they

repeatedly tell us that they do not miss a thing! We enjoy celebrating their

newfound freedom with them!

Copyright 2025 by Christine E. Smart

Designing Moves LLC 309 7th Avenue, Suite 2

Marion, IA 52302 (by appointment only)

319-377-6891

christine@designingmoves.com

www.designingmoves.com