Downsizing as an Expat

As with every summer, in the last few years, the mass exodus of expats has commenced again. This year there seem to be a lot of expats moving back to their home country. For many they will be moving from their large villas to smaller houses or flats, which will mean that they will have to do the dreaded ....DOWNSIZING.The best way to approach downsizing and moving is to take baby steps (if possible).  Here are my tips to help you downsize for the move:

1. Start EarlySometimes it is difficult to start early as some companies give a weeks notice to move and leave the country, however, if you know that you could be asked to leave within a short time space, start downsizing now. Keep a leisurely pace to prevent feeling stressed by committing an hour a week or every few days to start decluttering items from a room. If you know you may need to move in the next few months, give yourself 3 months to start tackling the areas.

2. Be PatientOpening cupboards, boxes and albums will invoke memories and emotions you had forgotten about. Some people build up clutter and hide them in cupboards and boxes because they fear bringing up these old memories. Have patience with yourself and do as much as you are comfortable with in that session.

3. Release the AttachmentSometimes the emotional and physical connection you have with an item can be an anchor rather than a buoy. Bear in the mind that your memories are not physically attached to that item. Document the memory in a diary or notebook, the note will last much longer and be more useful than keeping hold of that item.Tip Of the Day: If you save the memory on Evernote, you can also attach a picture of the item to your note.

4. Just in Case?If you are holding onto an item "just in case", think about how long it has been in the "just in case" box. If it is longer than a year, the "just in case" scenario is very unlikely to occur now so donate, sell or throw the item away (you can always buy the item if the situation does happen later on).

5. There are shops in your new location or online shoppingIn this day and age there are very few countries that will not sell the items you need for your home (we will ignore North Korea and Greenland). If you can't find the item in your new location, you will most probably be able to buy an alternative which is better for your new home life or you can order it online and have it shipped to you.

6. Get the DimensionsIf you know where you will be moving in your new location, get the dimensions to see what you will be able to fit comfortably.That L shaped sofa may have been ideal for this apartment, but do you know if it will fit through the door in the new place and fit comfortably in your new living room?

7. Sell, Sell, SellSell those items you don't need for cash. Use classifieds such as dubizzle and second hand groups on Facebook.

8. Remove the Duplicates and No longer Required ItemsDo you have 3 potato peelers and 5 mixing bowls in the kitchen? Do you have gardening tools for your current villa, but moving to an apartment in your new location? Remove the duplicates and items you won't need to reduce your shipping costs and increase the space in your new place.

9. Try to be Organized in Your New PlaceMake sure everything that you take to your new place will have a place and can be easily stored. If you cannot store it in a suitable place, are you sure you want to take it with you?

10. Ask for HelpFriends and family can increase the emotional tension that may already be forming due to the declutter. If you need impartial advice, book a session with a professional organizer like Decluttr Me. A professional organizer can guide you on what to keep, donate, sell or trash and which third party services would be best to move those items less stressfully.   

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