First 5 Steps to Downsizing

03 Oct First 5 Steps to Downsizing

Moving into a tiny house isn’t for everyone, but it’s becoming a popular option for people who want to live a more simple life. Living in a smaller space means having less belongings to be responsible for, a smaller space to clean, lower monthly bills, and the option to move and live in different areas. 

Many folks who choose to live in under 500 square feet have already been living simply for some time, however that’s not always the case. Families living in regular sized houses have the most work to do in regards to downsizing their lives.

It’s natural for our belongings to expand and multiply to fill the space we inhabit. When choosing to downsize and live in a significantly smaller space than ever before, there are some necessary first steps. 

What space will you be moving into?

Initially it’s important to decide on the exact space you will be moving into. Look at the storage options that will be available, and the type of lifestyle you envision. Will you be sharing a tiny home with someone else or can it be designed just for you? How minimal are you wanting to go? 

Hobbies with gear. Time to prioritize. 

Our hobbies usually come with a great amount of gear, material, or equipment that’s not frequently used. It’s totally possible to design storage and your home to align with your hobbies, but choosing a few of the most important hobbies will help reserve space for items that are used more frequently. Tiny houses with “storage sheds” create space for those seasonal and infrequently used belongings.

Items with multiple functions!

Take time to make a list of items that have multiple functions. The more often an item is used, the more the space it takes up is justified. Also, similar items that store well together, like nesting bowls or storage compartments designed for specific things should be included. 

Necessity and joy.

We all know Marie Kondo by now, especially when speaking about downsizing. She focuses on items that bring you joy. 

When downsizing to live in a tiny space, it’s the most fun to choose items that fill a specific use, but also bring you happiness. This qualifies as a multiple function too! Make sure each item that is chosen fills a need and that you like to have it around you.

Be kind and brutal.

If you haven’t used an item in over a year then let it go. The more you do it, the easier it will get. If it holds a significant amount of sentimental value then think of how you can integrate it or turn it into something else that’s useful. Make a pillowcase out of an old sweater that you loved in college but wouldn’t wear now. Take pictures or gift sentimental items to friends and loved ones who you know will appreciate them. 

Just because you are living in a small space, doesn’t mean you can’t have the things you love. In all truth you should have only the things you love!

Written by Isabelle Nagel-Brice of A Tiny Good Thing