Some life changes call for embracing a smaller home — whether you’re relocating to a city with a higher cost of living or downsizing after your kids leave for college. After living comfortably in a larger space, the idea of sorting through your belongings can feel overwhelming. But here’s the truth: you can live joyfully with less.
Think of downsizing as more than just a logistical task. It’s an opportunity to check in with yourself, recommit to your values, and design a home that reflects the life you want to live. Downsizing isn’t about giving things up; it’s about making space for what truly matters. Inspired by Marie Kondo’s timeless tidying principles, these tips will help you navigate how to joyfully downsize your home.
1. Commit to Tidying Before You Move
Before you even pack a box, take time to complete the tidying process in your current home. Why bring items that no longer serve you into your new space? By doing a full KonMari-style tidying festival before moving, you’ll ensure that everything you bring sparks joy and aligns with the life you’re creating in your new home. You’ll also find that your new space feels open, welcoming, and ready for future joy-sparking items that come your way!
2. Visualize Your Ideal New Home
Before you start decluttering, spend some time visualizing your new home. What does your ideal day look like in that space? Are you enjoying morning coffee in a cozy nook? Hosting intimate dinners in a smaller dining area? Consider how your new space differs from your current one. Maybe there’s less kitchen storage or no dedicated office. When you picture your daily routines, you’ll better understand which items will support your vision and which can be released.
3. Avoid Hiding Items Away
When downsizing, it can be tempting to rent a storage unit “just in case.” But Marie Kondo advises against this. Storing items out of sight can prevent us from confronting what we truly need and love. Every item deserves to be seen, appreciated, or let go with gratitude. If something doesn’t fit in your new home, it may not fit in this next chapter of your life either. Downsizing is about embracing change, not postponing it.
4. Tidy, Organize, and Downsize by Category
Most traditional downsizing guides recommend decluttering room by room, but the KonMari Method™ suggests tidying by category. Start with clothing, then move on to books, komono (miscellaneous items), and finally sentimental items.
For example, when sorting bathroom supplies, gather everything from all bathrooms into one spot before deciding what to keep. This approach helps you identify duplicates and excess items—crucial when moving from three bathrooms to one or trading multiple closets for a single shelf. Organizing by category makes it easier to pack and unpack, ensuring your new home stays clutter-free.
5. Leave Room to Breathe
Downsizing isn’t just about fitting everything into a smaller space; it’s about creating room to breathe. Resist the urge to fill every shelf and countertop. Give yourself time to live in the space and observe what you truly need. As you settle in, your new home will reveal what’s essential and what isn’t. The open spaces will allow your mind and body to relax, making your home feel more peaceful and spacious.
6. Thank Your Old Home
Before you leave your current home, take a moment to express gratitude. Think of all the memories, milestones, and moments it has held. This chapter of your life made the next one possible—and that’s something to celebrate. Acknowledging this helps bring closure and allows you to step into your new space with a joyful heart.
Bonus Tips for Keeping a Small Space Tidy
Use Overlooked Spaces
Smaller homes require smart storage solutions. Utilize stacking containers, install shelves over door frames, and don’t forget about spaces like under the bed or beneath sinks. Vertical storage can maximize even the tiniest rooms. Drawer organizers, hidden spice racks, and countertop-friendly solutions can keep your home tidy without sacrificing aesthetics.
Fold Clothes the KonMari Way
Limited closet space? No problem. Marie Kondo’s folding techniques help you maximize drawer space while keeping your wardrobe easily accessible and neatly organized. Plus, it’s satisfying to see everything perfectly folded!
Create Hybrid Rooms
In a smaller home, every room can serve multiple purposes. A playroom can double as a craft space after bedtime, and a guest room can transform into a home office when not hosting visitors. As long as everything has its place, hybrid rooms can be both functional and beautiful.
Downsizing is a beautiful opportunity to reflect on your life, imagine your ideal next chapter, and express gratitude for the present moment. With the right mindset and thoughtful organization, you can create a home that sparks joy—no matter its size. Congratulations on this exciting new beginning!
Ready to embrace a smaller, joy-filled home? If you need help with your downsizing journey, Spark Joy in MI is here to guide you through every step. Book a consultation today and let’s create a space that truly sparks joy!
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