(Newswire.net — February 16, 2018) — As Americans, we assume that bigger is better. We like big houses, massive cars, spacious storage units, biggie fries – the list goes on. But if you look at research and personal experience, smaller is often more rewarding. By trimming down your lifestyle a bit, you may discover that happiness is less elusive than ever before.
4 Ways to Downsize Your Life
Downsizing your life requires you to let go of some of the things you’ve become accustomed to – both physically and emotionally. And while it may be challenging at first, the beginning stages of downsizing are always the hardest.
Once you start to feel the relief that accompanies it, you’ll gain momentum and find great joy in purging your life of clutter you don’t need. Here’s where to start.
1. Downsize Your House
The first step is to downsize your home. While you don’t necessarily have to move from a 5,000-square-foot McMansion into a 300-square-foot tiny house, there is something to be said for shedding some unused space and living in a house that’s functional.
One of the best parts about downsizing in house is that it forces you to get rid of all that junk you’ve been holding onto for the past few years (or decades). And if you’re finding it difficult to know what to keep and what to toss, Money Crashers’ Laura Williams suggests using the one-year rule.
“I know how tempting it is to hang onto items you once loved but no longer use, or items you think you might use someday. But the truth is, if you haven’t used a particular item in the last year, you’re unlikely to use it in the next year,” Williams admits. “And if you’re unlikely to use something in the next year, then you’re unlikely to use it at all.”
2. Get Rid of Multiples
Regardless of whether you’re downsizing in square footage or not, you need to purge your household items and get rid of things you no longer need. In addition to the one-year rule, it’s smart to get rid of multiples.
Multiples are something Americans love. But while we think we need 24 coffee mugs, 17 bath towels, four changes of sheets, and 100 pairs of shoes, the reality is that we can get by on far less. Tossing multiples will give you room to breathe.
3. Buy a Smaller Car
There are some people who, for job-related purposes, have a need for a gas guzzling SUV or truck, but most of us can get away with something much more fuel efficient. By purchasing a smaller vehicle, you can save money, space and gas. (It’ll also take up less space in your garage, which means you can actually get in and out without banging your door into bicycles and workbenches.)
4. Purge Your Commitments
Downsizing isn’t all about getting rid of junk and buying small, compact stuff. If you’re truly committed to simplifying your lifestyle, you also need to think about your commitments. Downsize your schedule by limiting your social commitments, taking on less responsibility with the PTA, and booking fewer weekends out of town.
On a related note, there’s something to be said for focusing on quality of friendships over quantity. While it’s nice to have a bunch of friends, more relationships command more of your time. This ultimately spreads you thin and wears you down. It’s better to pour your energy into a few close friendships.
5. Reset Your Lifestyle
It’s never too late to decide that you want to downsize your life. Whether you’re moving into your first apartment, are raising lots of children, or would call yourself an empty nester, downsizing is always an option. It gives you the opportunity to hit the reset button and enjoy a much simpler, more efficient lifestyle.