Just about everyone I know realizes they have too much stuff. The most devoted collectors need another storage space to hold the stuff they can’t put in their storage space.
Those same people know that downsizing would probably be a good idea. But the process seems overwhelming, so they keep putting it off.
If that sounds like you — you’re thinking about downsizing, but can’t quite get your head around it –here are some resources to help you get started. Remember — you don’t have to add any of these books to your already too large collection. You can get them at the library, and return them when you’re done!
1. Stuffocation
James Wallman gives a fascinating overview of how America turned into a society of super-consumers. His main thesis, that accumulating experiences is more satisfying than accumulating stuff, could give you a different view on what and how much stuff you want/need to live with. In addition to being an interesting read,, it’s reassuring to realize you’re not the only one who has taken on shopping as a sport.
2. The Life Changing Magic of Tidying-Up
Japanese best-selling author Marie Kondo acknowledges that things can bring us joy — just not everything. Her suggestion is that you should make an honest review of all you own, and keep only those few things you truly love. Clutter is often a reflection of unhappiness, Kondo says. Clearing the clutter allows you to see and appreciate what you have. And that can lead to more happiness overall.
3. Behind the Clutter: Truth. Love. Meaning. Purpose.
June Saruwatari takes a more psychological approach to the downsizing discussion, exploring the thoughts, feelings, memories and beliefs that lay behind a collection of clutter. When you follow June’s suggestions and look at your stuff in a larger context you may see that you were giving your things a power and importance they really shouldn’t have.
4. Who Gets Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate?
If the who-gets-what conversation is keeping you from starting the downsizing process, Marlene S. Stum’s workbook will definitely help. In addition to offering step by step how-to-decide assistance, this book is an important reminder that making distribution decisions ahead of time is best for everyone.
The benefits of living with less has become a hot topic these days, so these are just a few of the many books available on downsizing. And with the minimalist movement gaining popularity, you’ll also find insights from people choosing to live in small spaces all over the web. When you read about people choosing to live in 120 feet and less, a small apartment seems huge!
If any of this inspires you and you’d like to do some downsizing of your own, feel free to call and ask for some hands-on help. On The Move will take care of the details so you won’t have to think or do a thing.
Drop a note to Maria@onthemovenow.com or call 650-740-4911 to find out more.
