6 Ways to Show Someone Who is Downsizing That You Love Them

1. Focus on what to keep. Many times when we are helping clients downsize and move, they get stuck in thinking about what to do with the things they are not keeping. Often this prevents any progress. Instead, thinking about which items are still loved and used can be a more joyful experience. Taking these items into the next chapter makes for a great new start.

2. Group like items together. It’s hard to take stock of what you have when it’s spread throughout the house. If you have clothes in multiple closets, or coffee mugs in different cupboards for example bring them all together and decide how many you really still like, want, or need.

3. Listen to the stories. Sometimes telling the story about a belonging is just what is needed to be able to let it go. It can also be a really fun way to connect with a friend or relative and learn things about them that you didn’t know.

4. Help preserve the memory. One fun way to do this is after you’ve heard a story of some meaningful items, take a picture and put the story on the back or turn it into a book of photos with the stories. This way your loved one can remember the memories and let go of the objects.

5. Accept items graciously. If a loved one offers you something, keep in mind this may be the step they need to be able to let it go. It does not mean a life sentence of having to keep the item. You can choose to keep it, donate it, or refurbish it as needed. Another option is to help explore meaningful places that are important to your loved one to donate items to.

6. Bring in help if needed. Know your own strengths and dynamics. If this is not a good role for you, delegate or hire a Specialty Move Manager. Smart Moves can help if you are in Southeast Wisconsin or go to www.NASMM.org to find a Move Manager near you.