Rita Wilkins's Blog, page 18

Consumerism vs. Minimalism My Personal Journey to Owning Less

Have you ever wished that your life was not so busy, so stressful, so complicated?

That there would be times where you could just sit back, relax, and enjoy a cup of hot tea with your best friend?

There was a time in my life that I longed for that, but it seemed like a distant dream. I was too busy being caught up in consumerism and the pursuit of “more” … more, bigger, better.

I used to think that owning that big beautiful house, a brand-new car and designer clothing would make me happy… The more luxury items I acquired, the happier and more successful I would be… or so, I thought!

The Vicious Cycle of Wanting More

But the fact of the matter was, that for me, the pursuit of “more” was exhausting, even debilitating because it was a vicious and never-ending cycle. There would always be the next new thing the next bigger thing.

When would that vicious cycle ever end?When could I just sit back, relax, and enjoy it all?

For me, this rarely happened. I didn’t give myself permission to slow down. I just worked longer and harder so I could buy more! 

Crazy, right? 

Fortunately, I started to ask myself these 3 life-changing questions:1.   Why was I buying with such mindless abandon?2.   Did all of that stuff really make me feel happy and fulfilled?3.   What was I trying to hide… or what was I trying to prove?

The answers to these questions shocked me. 

They stopped me in my tracks. 

They made me realize that I was trying to live someone else’s values and dreams, not my own!

No wonder I felt so empty!

Steps I Took to Simplify My Life

Once I took the time to look inside, and get in touch with my own core values, my own goals, and what I wanted for myself and my life, the answer became crystal clear. 

I was longing for a simpler, more meaningful life with less stuff so I could have more time, money, freedom, and energy to pursue my own dreams and what mattered most to me.

That “aha” moment led to my decluttering and downsizing journey. It led me to challenge myself to let go of all of the excess stuff that was complicating my life, causing undue stress, anxiety, and overwhelm. 

During the process of downsizing and decluttering, I came to realize that the less I owned, the lighter I felt.

I was now free to focus on.

Creating memorable moments and experiences.Nurturing and growing relationships.Focusing on personal and professional growth My Life Took on A Much Deeper Meaning

The overall quality of my life improved exponentially. I felt content, satisfied, and happier than I could ever remember.

My new minimalist lifestyle gave me the freedom to BE more, DO more, and LIVE more.

Whereas, my former consumerist lifestyle pressured me to consume more, own more, and to be someone I didn’t really want to be.

I must admit that embracing a minimalist lifestyle in a consumer culture is not always easy with the constant barrage of advertisements enticing you to buy more. It can be quite tempting.

But my journey to owning less, to becoming a minimalist, has allowed me to authentically live the life I dream of.

I don’t feel at all deprived of living in a smaller home, driving an older car, and making due with the clothes in my closet.

In fact, I feel empowered by the choices I intentionally make each day, guided by these core minimalist principles: 

You need far less than you think you need.If you don’t need it, why buy it?If you don’t use it, lose it.When you own less, you value what you do have more.Always choose experiences over stuff!Consumerism or Minimalism?

There is no right or wrong choice.

It’s an intensely personal decision that will alter the direction of your life one way or the other.

Ask yourself what kind of life you long for.Be open, honest, and vulnerable. You only get one chance at life.Why not live the life you love… By Design?Sign up for Rita’s FREE Newsletter HERE!

Never miss an episode of Rita’s weekly Facebook Live broadcast! Click the following link to like Rita’s Facebook page or subscribe to her Decluttering YouTube Channel. Check out our YouTube playlists if you want to learn more.

Follow me on social media for more updates:YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | TWITTERRita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post Consumerism vs. Minimalism My Personal Journey to Owning Less first appeared on Design Services LTD.

How To Get Started Decluttering With Minimalist Essentials

The Best Way To Get Started Decluttering 

Decluttering your home may seem like a daunting task to start with – but it’s not a task you have to accomplish all by yourself! If you’re feeling stuck and wondering how to get started decluttering, you’re in the right place. You can learn how to let go of items and live like a minimalist today! 

Overcome Decluttering Challenges With Minimalist Tips 

Hi, I’m Rita Wilkins. As the Downsizing Designer, I’ve helped many people on their decluttering journeys, and now I’m here to help you! Like me, you can learn to overcome your decluttering challenges and let go of having too much stuff. Once you do, you’ll find you have more money, time, and freedom to live the life you want to live! 

Minimalist Essentials: Minimalist Tips For Decluttering 

How can you get started decluttering? With my Minimalist Essentials workbook! This all-in-one decluttering companion and planner is designed to jumpstart your decluttering journey. How? 

With easy decluttering checklists, progress trackers, fun 30-day decluttering challenges, and more, you’ll be equipped with all the tools you need to take on decluttering any space in your home! Don’t wait to get your copy. Visit the Design Services online store today, where you’ll find a digital download of Minimalist Essentials. Prefer a physical copy? Get the paperback Minimalist Essentials workbook on Amazon! 

Find More Decluttering Tips Today 

Looking to learn more about decluttering? Visit my YouTube channel, where you’ll find tons of minimalist decluttering tips waiting for you! 

Rita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? Call Design Services LTD at 302-475-5663 to discuss your design needs. You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? You can schedule a complimentary 30-minute call with me today. My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post How To Get Started Decluttering With Minimalist Essentials  first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Why Am I So Committed to Decluttering, Downsizing and Living with Less?

That was a question posed to me on a recent podcast interview.

On one level, the answer to this question is simple. When you live with less, you experience more time, money, freedom, energy, and peace of mind.

But on a much deeper level, I see the real-life impact that it makes in people’s lives… their overall happiness and contentment. 

As an example, today, I received a comment from a woman who had listened to one of my YouTube videos, “The Hidden Life, Changing Power of Decluttering.”

She said: “Rita, I can’t tell you how much your video has helped me… And I haven’t even heard the whole thing yet.”

In this particular video that she referred to, I told a real-life story of a woman’s nine-month decluttering journey. 

Overcoming the Challenges of Being Overwhelmed

How she went from feeling completely overwhelmed and beaten down by the naysayers in her life, and totally incapable of accomplishing such a huge task on her own to a

completely new woman, who was empowered, emboldened, and confident…

All because she was willing to not only do the hard physical work of decluttering her entire house but also, she was courageous enough to do the emotional inner work that one experiences during the decluttering process. 

The video is a powerful, poignant, and an inspiring story of just one woman

But the reality is… The reason I am so passionate about decluttering, downsizing, and living a simpler life with less is that I get to receive these types of comments and emails every single day! 

And that fires me up!

That’s why I care so much and I also know from my personal experience that decluttering from the inside out is transformative.

It changes lives!

It sure changed mine. That’s why I’m here.

A Trip That Changed My Life Forever

As I shared on the TEDx stage 6 years ago, during a trip to a Third-World country, for the first time in my life, I experienced people who had almost nothing, but they were happy. 

At the time, it made no sense to me. How could they be happy and have so few possessions?

And yet, during that month-long, stay in Senegal… I saw it, I felt it, I experienced it for myself.

And all I knew was that it existed, that it was possible, and I wanted that for myself… to live a much simpler life with less.

How I Downsized My Life and Lifestyle

When I came back home to my big house that was filled with so many beautiful designer things, suddenly, they were just that… Things!

A year later, I downsized from a 5000-square-foot home to an 867-square-foot apartment. I gave away 95% of my things to people who needed them or wanted them.

I am now living with 5% of what I once owned and I’ve never been happier!

And… I’ve never looked back! 

After I downsized, people started calling me the “Downsizing Designer,” a moniker I’ve come to embrace because as an interior designer, for almost 40 years, I’ve seen the impact of how design can change lives, how people live, work, and play in their environments.

Now, as the “Downsizing Designer,” I get to see the impact of people choosing to design and live their lives more intentionally and with purpose, based on their values, not someone else’s.

When they intentionally choose to pare down the excess stuff in their lives, and in their homes, they literally and figuratively make room for a life that really matters. 

It’s that simple.

When you live with less, you live more…and you value what you have more. 

When I wrote my best-selling book, “Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money and Freedom.”

I had no idea how much my story would resonate with so many people from across the globe.

That inspired me to start writing and delivering meaningful content each week for the past five years, to provide practical tools and tips that will inspire thousands and thousands of people on their own decluttering and downsizing journeys.

I had no idea that my videos and blogs would go viral, and that the Downsizing Designer would become a national brand that motivates people to live simpler, more abundant lives with less.

And I also had no idea how hungry people are to declutter, get organized, and lead more productive lives.

But you responded.

You’ve watched my Facebook lives every Tuesday at 7 pm EST.You’ve listened to my YouTube videos and shared them with your friends.You’ve read some of the 800+ blogs on my website.

Thank you with all my heart. 

YOU are the reason I do what I do.

YOU are the reason I love making a difference each day as the “Downsizing Designer.”

YOU are the reason I will continue to consistently provide valuable and actionable content that will inspire you and motivate you on your journey to live the life you love… By Design!

Sign up for Rita’s FREE Newsletter HERE!

Never miss an episode of Rita’s weekly Facebook Live broadcast! Click the following link to like Rita’s Facebook page or subscribe to her Decluttering YouTube Channel. Check out our YouTube playlists if you want to learn more.

Follow me on social media for more updates:YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | TWITTERRita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post Why Am I So Committed to Decluttering, Downsizing and Living with Less? first appeared on Design Services LTD.

THE HIDDEN LIFE-CHANGING POWER OF DECLUTTERING

BY RITA WILKINS FEBRUARY 09, 2024 LIFESTYLE

Who could have guessed that the cathartic process of purging and decluttering one woman’s home one drawer, one closet, one room at a time could change the direction and trajectory of life forever?

What began as an attempt to help a client gradually declutter her home, that had become so overrun with clutter that she was overwhelmed to the point of feeling paralyzed and powerless to accomplish the task on her own, turned into an adventure and great revelation.

What ended up happening was completely unexpected. After almost a year of decluttering, a powerful, confident, emboldened woman emerged from underneath all of that clutter. the physical and emotional clutter that had been standing in the way of the peace, contentment and fulfillment that her clutter-free home now provides, was gone.

And even more importantly, after fully embracing the inner work of decluttering, she is now a woman who loves and respects herself enough to confront anyone (including herself) who tells her she can’t when she knows she CAN.

But perhaps the most significant impact of decluttering, both the physical and mental clutter, is the life-changing power that she discovered within herself hidden underneath all of that stuff. 

Getting Your Life Back Through Decluttering

Several major transformations took place during the nine-month-long process.

She regained control of her physical environment by purging anything that she no longer wanted, needed, or used, creating space for a simpler and more abundant life with less.She reclaimed her own power by discovering a new sense of control over herself and her life, ultimately making room for the life she really wanted.She rediscovered her self-worth, self-love, inner peace, contentment, and happiness.

Throughout the process of purging, she also learned how to:

Confront and talk about the deep-seated emotions of anger, resentment, frustration that had been building up and kept hidden for many years.Reject and refuse to allow the negative, non-supportive environment that prevented her from accomplishing her decluttering goals. Instead, replacing them with a supportive team that would inspire and encourage her on the journey.Learn to develop new skills, routines, and habits that would contribute to sustainable changes. “Good Luck with That!”

A few weeks into our decluttering sessions, I was introduced to her spouse for the first time.

She said: “Rita is here to help me declutter our home.”

He responded: “Good luck with that!”

To this day, those cruel, biting, and disempowering words still ring in my ears!

In that moment, I saw a woman who had heard this message many times before and felt so beaten down by a spouse who was betting against her success.

How could she possibly win at decluttering or anything else she set out to do? No wonder she felt incapable of doing this project on her own!

Those Were “Fighting Words!”

His disrespectful words lit a fire and passion within me to not only help this woman get her house back, but also to reclaim her power, self-respect, and belief in herself.

I was committed to having her reverse the real time cost of clutter.

Getting Started, Staying Motivated, and Winning the Decluttering Game

An overview of the process of this life-changing approach to decluttering:

Establish ground rules for a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space that inspires and encourages weekly progress.Teach practical tools, tips, techniques to let go of excess that is not aligned with values and current lifestyle. Practice techniques for overcoming obstacles and breaking free of barriers that slow down the decision-making process.Take “before pictures” and “after pictures” at every decluttering session.Complete the initial intake form/questionnaire to better understand the impact of physical and emotional clutter on health, well-being, relationships, productivity, and overall happiness.Monitor the level of weekly commitment and keep a written journal.Create a written vision statement for life after decluttering.Create a blueprint/roadmap of all areas in the home to be decluttered. Prioritize them in order of importance and impact.Establish decluttering calendar with specific dates, times, goals for each session.Document weekly progress, noting whether goals were achieved. If not, why not? What might be done differently the next time: lessons learned.Room by Room, Session by Session, We Began to See Real Transformation and Results

As she grew to trust me, she openly talked about the emotions that she had been denying and attempting to hide for many years. Those feelings of anger, resentment, frustration, and disrespectbegan to melt away and feelings of gratitude and hope started to creep into our conversation.

She came to realize that as she not only lost control of her house and the clutter within it, she has also lost her own power and self-respect.

With each bag of discarded trash, with each box of donated stuff, she was not only letting go of the physical clutter, but she was also letting go of the mental cutter that had been the real roadblock to any possibility of success that she was looking for. 

What was your initial roadblock to successfully declutter your home and life? Is your story one of success?

Sign up for Rita’s FREE Newsletter HERE!

Never miss an episode of Rita’s weekly Facebook Live broadcast! Click the following link to like Rita’s Facebook page or subscribe to her Decluttering YouTube Channel. Check out our YouTube playlists if you want to learn more.

Follow me on social media for more updates:YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | TWITTERRita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post THE HIDDEN LIFE-CHANGING POWER OF DECLUTTERING first appeared on Design Services LTD.

My 5-Step Method to Declutter and Organize Your Home

Just like anything else, some people are naturally good at some things and totally clueless at others.

My 2 sons have always teased me by telling people “Our mom can see through walls.” Meaning, that is easy for me to walk into a room as a designer and visualize many ideas for a finished space. That’s a gift, a challenge I’ve been given that I get to use every day.

But conversely, please don’t ask me to troubleshoot what’s wrong with your computer because that’s not my skill set and it’s not as easy for me as it might be for you.

Similarly, decluttering and organizing are second nature to some while it’s overwhelming and frustrating and challenging to others. 

A Creative Roadmap to Help You Declutter and Get Organized

That’s why there are so many people, perhaps you are one of them, who seek guidance to help with decluttering and getting organized.

They need a roadmap, a step-by-step guide that they can follow, and learn how to let go of the excess stuff in their homes. And then, also learn how to organize it in a logical way so that they know exactly where to find things when they want or need them. 

Just to get started, here’s a short quiz.

If you needed a Phillips-head screwdriver to fix something right now, would you know exactly where to find it?If your spouse surprised you with a week-long vacation to a warm climate, would you be able to find your summer clothes so you could pack and be ready in 2 hours?If you had an unexpected dinner guest, would you be able to find things in your pantry and refrigerator to create a nice dinner?If your accountant called and asked for a specific document he needed to complete your taxes, would you be able to easily put your hands on it?If you were to get in an accident and suddenly pass away, would your children or heir be able to locate an access your important paperwork and password for your files on your computer or phone?

You can see that some of these questions have more serious consequences than others, but the reason I mention these is to raise awareness of the importance of decluttering and organizing your home so that you can easily locate whatever is needed.

And it also helps you save time, money, effort, and aggravation.

When you have a clutter-free home, when that is organized, you will start to live a simpler, calmer, and more peaceful life.

My 5-step guide to decluttering and organizing your home is a simple tool that will show you how to strategically, efficiently, and effectively declutter and organize any or all areas of your home… Even if you are extremely cluttered!

Downsize your sentimental clutter. Enter your email to download our 5-step guide and worksheet right now.

Remember, it is possible that not all areas of your home need decluttering and organizing, so walk through your home and prioritize areas that need the most attention.

Examples: mudroom, laundry room, bathroom, hall, closet, etc.

Pick the top 5 areas that will have the biggest impact if they are decluttered and organized.Schedule a time to work on that area. Commit to completing it before moving onto the next, so you can experience the positive impact of your efforts.At the scheduled date and time, begin the process.Step #1: Remove Everything From The Area

Example: YOUR CLOSET

Decide what you want to keep.You like it, need it, will use it… and it fits.Put into the “keep pile.”Sort your pile into categoriesI.e., shirts, pants, dressesReturn the key items to the closet, organizing them into categories.Shirts, pants, dresses, so you will be able to find them when you want them or need them.Step #2: Decide What You Want to Discard.Immediately place it into the discard box or bag, and put it into the trash. Step #3: Decide What You Want to Sell or RepurposePlace into the sell box or repurposed bag or box.Commit to selling or repurposing it within 30 days or, donate it.Step #4: Decide What You Want to DonatePlace in donate bag or box.Immediately put into your car and commit to a day that same week that you will drop off to a donation site or schedule a donation pick up.Step #5: Move To the Next AreaAfter you’ve completed the first area or room, move onto the next area that you prioritized, and that will make a huge difference organized and decluttered.Follow the same 5 steps.

If you allow 15 to 30 minutes per day or more using this method, you will be amazed at the progress you can make to declutter and get organized.

It does take time…

It does take discipline to complete these tasks.

But because they are broken down into small manageable chunks of time and because you will see clear results from your efforts, you will be motivated to keep the momentum going.

Sign up for Rita’s FREE Newsletter HERE!

Never miss an episode of Rita’s weekly Facebook Live broadcast! Click the following link to like Rita’s Facebook page or subscribe to her Decluttering YouTube Channel. Check out our YouTube playlists if you want to learn more.

Follow me on social media for more updates:YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | TWITTERRita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post My 5-Step Method to Declutter and Organize Your Home first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Lean Design: Minimalist Design Tips For A Minimalist Lifestyle

More Isn’t Always Better! Live A Decluttered Life With Minimalist Essentials 

American culture often supposes that more is better. However, more things and a bigger home may be what’s holding you back from living your best life. However, more isn’t always best – even when it comes to interior design. Are you ready to learn how to live a more minimalist lifestyle? Are you ready to stop living with too much stuff, not enough space? 

How To Let Go Of Items: Lean Design And Decluttering Methods 

Hi, I’m Rita Wilkins, your Downsizing Designer. I’m here to help you achieve your minimalist lifestyle and design goals. Minimalist design – sometimes known as Lean design – is a design approach that emphasizes simplicity. I, too, learned to live a simpler life with less after decluttering and downsizing. Now, I hope to help you achieve the same. 

How To Let Go Of Items: Finding The Right Decluttering Method 

The secret to success when it comes to decluttering is to find the method or methods that work best for you. For example, perhaps you can achieve your Lean design goals through the Room by Room decluttering method. I explain more about Lean design and this decluttering method in my video, “Declutter & Embrace Lean Design: Simplify Your Life Room by Room.” I also encourage you to browse my YouTube channel for other decluttering tips and tricks. 

Minimalist Essentials – An All-In-One Decluttering Companion And Planner 

For a more comprehensive approach to learning about decluttering and the minimalist lifestyle, I encourage you to try my Minimalist Essentials workbook. This workbook includes 60 pages of helpful practices and tips, such as easy decluttering checklists, progress trackers, fun 30-day challenges, and more. 

Visit the Design Services online store to find a digital download of Minimalist Essentials as well as other decluttering tools such as decluttering checklists, online decluttering courses, and more. If you prefer physical media, a paperback Minimalist Essentials workbook can be found on Amazon. 

Rita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? Call Design Services LTD at 302-475-5663 to discuss your design needs. You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? You can schedule a complimentary 30-minute call with me today. My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon.  

The post Lean Design: Minimalist Design Tips For A Minimalist Lifestyle first appeared on Design Services LTD.

A Must-Have Conversation: How to Talk to Your Parents About Their Stuff

At a recent conference where I was speaking, I had the opportunity to spend an afternoon with many young professional women. One of the topics they most wanted to talk to me about as the “Downsizing Designer” was how to talk to their parents about all of their stuff.

Stuff they clearly didn’t want to deal with when their parents died.Stuff they mostly didn’t want or didn’t have room for in their small homes or apartments.

While they said, they felt comfortable talking to their moms and dads about many things, the one conversation they avoided was what to do with all of their parents’ stuff because inevitably it caused arguments.

One said she received a gift still in the box, a gift her parents didn’t want, but they wanted her to take.

Said her mother is saving her Christmas dinner plates for her. She doesn’t want them; she doesn’t even like them.

And a young woman said she tried to tell her parents that she only wanted a few of their things and said that her parents were offended and made her feel guilty.

So, the conversation they all were reluctant to have keeps getting postponed until someday.

How to Communicate with Your Parents with Ease

This is a quandary for many adult children, both young and middle-aged… They want to know how to talk to their mom and dad about this touchy subject because frankly, they just don’t want their stuff.

As the “Downsizing Designer,” and as a baby boomer myself, I appreciate these open and honest conversations. These real concerns have the potential to cause hurt feelings at best and family, rifts and family divides at worst.

While each family dynamic is uniquely different, if handled compassionately, it is possible to have a caring conversation that will open the door to more productive conversations on the subject and hopefully, successful outcomes.

My Top 5 Tips to Get the Conversation Started with Your Parents About Their Stuff1.   Ask questions about their things

When you are at their home, ask questions about some of their things that you know matter to them.

Ask why some important to them and have them tell the story behind the piece. This will not only shed light on why it’s important to them, but it may also offer some family history.

If they ask you, if you would like it it’s OK to gently decline. You might, however, express interest in another piece that you truly do want 

2.   Ease into multiple brief conversations to open the door to them being comfortable with talking about itI.e., tell them you know they’re trying to declutter and downsize and that you just want them to know you’re here if they would like you to helpI.e., Ask them if there’s any particular job that would make it easier for them.

Downsizing in decluttering is a very physical task. They may welcome your muscles.

I.e., Talk about the benefits of decluttering and downsizing, 

How much easier their life with it will be with less stuff. How much safer it will be if they aren’t ascending and descending stairs 

Ie. Ask if they have friends who have decluttered and downsized.

What was their experience? How did they do it? How did they like it? Living with less less?

3.   Listen intently

Give them your undivided attention. Listen to their concerns. Talk about their feelings.

They might be worried they don’t have enough money.They might be overwhelmed by the size of the Downsizing task ahead of them.They might be afraid of aging and fall.They might be guilty because they have so much.4.   Let them control the conversation

Just ask questions. Be sincerely curious. Let them know you understand their concerns, that you love them, care about them, and their health, safety, and happiness. Also, let them know that this is their decision, and just like they’ve supported you, you are now there to support them.

5.   Don’t put it off!

Whatever you do have many conversations as soon as possible over a period of time. Start now. Don’t put it off.

BONUS!

6.   Manage your expectations

This may not happen immediately. Ease into the conversations, make them brief, ask questions, the patient.

A word of caution: if it does start to escalate into an argument, ask them if you can talk about it at another time.

Most importantly, don’t use threats or ultimatums. You wouldn’t like that nor will they. Be kind, compassionate, loving … and patient!

Never miss an episode! Click the following link to like Rita’s Facebook page or subscribe to her Decluttering YouTube Channel. Check out our YouTube playlists if you want to learn more.

Sign up for Rita’s FREE Newsletter HERE!Follow me on social media for more updates:YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | TWITTERRita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post A Must-Have Conversation: How to Talk to Your Parents About Their Stuff first appeared on Design Services LTD.

From Chaos to Clarity: Embracing Your New Decluttered Life

In this blog, consider embarking on a transformational journey – one that brings you closer to a life you’ve always envisioned. If you’re tired of living a life full of clutter and chaos, this blog will inspire you to clear your clutter so you can begin living a life you love.

What will your new life look like when you get rid of all of that clutter?

Imagine waking up to a home that is calm and peaceful, with no clutter to distract you from starting your day.

No more wasting time trying to find something to wear in your overcrowded closets with clothes that don’t fit or don’t look good on you.No more trying to find your phone or car keys.No more tripping over shoes or toys left on the floor from the night before.

Instead, everything has a designated place where you know where to find it when you need it.

This makes your morning routine so much easier and far less stressful.

And after a long day, you’re excited to come home and open the door to your sanctuary – a place where you can relax and unwind. No more tripping over piles of stuff and no more feeling overwhelmed by the messy countertops and desktops.

Transforming Your Space for Mental Clarity

Decluttering not only transforms your physical space, it also helps to clear your mind so you can think more clearly and pay attention to what truly matters to you.

Because you no longer have to spend your time decluttering, you now have more quality time to spend with your loved ones or time to simply enjoy your new clutter-free home.

This is just one example of someone’s vision for what their life will look like when they are clutter-free.

What is your vision for what you want your life to look like post clutter?4-Step Process to Create a Vision for The Life You Want After Clutter 

1. Take time to reflect on the life you want by envisioning what you want, and don’t want.

What you want more of and what you want less of?What matters most to you and why?What does your ideal day look like when you don’t have to deal with clutter?

2. Create a one sentence vision statement that captures your vision.

Example: I want to live a simpler, more abundant life with less stuff, and have time for more fun, learning and experiences.

3. Plan backwards.

Pretend you are living your best clutter-free life right now.

What actions did you take to accomplish that?What decisions did you have to make along the way?What changes in your habits and behaviors had to occur?How did you shift your mindset to let go of your unneeded and unwanted possessions?What help did you receive along the way to assist you with purging?What lessons did you learn that you can apply in the future?

4. Now, plan forward.

Create your roadmap, keeping your vision at the forefront of your planning.

Goals: long-term and short-termTimeline to accomplish goalsAction steps each weekMilestonesTeam members required to reach goals  Decluttering your home can change your life.

If you’ve been promising yourself that this is the year that you will declutter your home and your life, create your vision and take these steps daily to make a decluttered life your reality.

Never miss an episode! Click the following link to like Rita’s Facebook page or subscribe to her Decluttering YouTube Channel. Check out our YouTube playlists if you want to learn more.

Sign up for Rita’s FREE Newsletter HERE!Follow me on social media for more updates:YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | TWITTERRita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post From Chaos to Clarity: Embracing Your New Decluttered Life first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Minimalist Tips: New Extreme Decluttering Method

Tired Of Being Overwhelmed By Clutter? 

Are you ready to lead a more minimalist lifestyle, but you’re not sure how to achieve that lifestyle? Are you tired of living with too much stuff, not enough space? Are you, perhaps, ready to go to extreme methods to declutter your home in 2024? If so, you’ve come to the right place. 

Too Much Stuff, Not Enough Space – Tackling The Decluttering Challenge In 2024 

Hi, I’m Rita Wilkins. In my experience as the Downsizing Designer, I’ve seen firsthand how decluttering often isn’t a one-size-fits-all practice. That is to say – the decluttering methods and minimalist tips that work for one person may not work well for another. As your guide in the world of decluttering, I want to help you find out which methods work best for you. 

An Extreme Decluttering Method – The Extreme Decluttering Party! 

Perhaps you’ve tried decluttering before only to lose motivation. Perhaps you’re simply finally in a place where you can no longer ignore how stressful your cluttered environment is. If this sounds like you, you may be ready to take a more extreme path, like the Extreme Decluttering Party. Want to learn more? Check out my video about The New Extreme Decluttering Trend. For more minimalist tips, feel free to visit my YouTube channel. 

Minimalist Essentials For A Minimalist Lifestyle 

Perhaps, however, you’re not ready for such extreme methods. If so, you could benefit from just learning the Minimalist Essentials. Minimalist Essentials is a 60-page, all-in-one decluttering companion and planner that will jumpstart your decluttering journey. You can find a digital download of Get your 60-page all-in-one decluttering companion and planner today. A digital download of Minimalist Essentials is available now in the Design Services online store, along with decluttering checklists, online decluttering courses, and more. A paperback Minimalist Essentials workbook can also be found on Amazon. 

Rita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? Call Design Services LTD at 302-475-5663 to discuss your design needs. You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? You can schedule a complimentary 30-minute call with me today. My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon.  

The post Minimalist Tips: New Extreme Decluttering Method  first appeared on Design Services LTD.

5 Downsides to Downsizing

If you are considering downsizing, this blog is intended to help you weigh some pros and cons before you make such a big decision. 

As the “Downsizing Designer,” I’m frequently asked if there are downsides to downsizing. The short answer is downsizing may or may not be right for you. It all depends. The truth is that there are far more plusses than minuses if you want to live a simpler and easier life with less.

But the choice depends on you. 

Many of you might already know from my book, Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle, and from my TED Talk, Why Less is More, that I downsized from my 5,000-square-foot home to an 867-square-foot apartment in center city Philadelphia. When I downsized, I chose to give away 95% of my possessions to those who needed it or wanted it, and frankly, I’ve never looked back, and I’ve never been happier.

But downsizing is not for everyone and if you are thinking about it, it’s important to weigh the pros and the cons.

Here Are A Few of the Cons of Downsizing

1. Downsizing is an emotional journey.

As a matter of fact, that is one of the main reasons many people decide to stay in their homes and age in place.

They might be reluctant to face the emotions of saying goodbye to the home they raised their kids in, the neighbors, and the community.

But they might also be hesitant to let go of their physical possessions, those things they’ve become attached to, and can’t imagine living without. 

And many are afraid to let go of the sentimental items, fearing that letting go of them means losing the memories that they associate with them. On one hand, you might want to downsize and live a less complicated, less cluttered life, but the emotional aspect of downsizing might stop you… Certainly, something you would need to face if you choose to downsize.

But on the other hand, you visualize a new lifestyle where you have more freedom, more flexibility, more mobility… And yes, likely, less responsibility because once you’re an empty nester, there’s an opportunity for you to create a whole new life.

2. Downsizing takes time.

It doesn’t happen overnight. It can take anywhere from 3 to 12 months depending on how much stuff you have and how dedicated you are to the process.

Many people get excited at the beginning but get overwhelmed by the size of the project so they get discouraged and then give up.

The reality of downsizing is that you need a plan that will help you keep yourself, focused and on track. Without a plan, you might make excuses, procrastinate, and never finish what you’ve started.

3. Downsizing requires many decisions.

One of the most talked about problems of downsizing and decluttering process is decision fatigue.

There are many many many decisions to make if you are wanting to live with less.

What furniture to bring?What furniture fits and doesn’t fit?

Day after day, week after week, making so many decisions can wear you down. Having an understanding of why you want to downsize certainly helps because it keeps the vision alive for life after downsizing. This will help you keep going even when you feel like quitting.

4. When you downsize you will have less space… and hopefully, less stuff.

Less space means less room for stuff. If you have difficulty parting with your stuff, you could have a problem.

Certainly, holding on is far easier than letting go, so if you decide to downsize, you need to develop a strong “letting go muscle” and “letting go mindset.”

Over time, the “letting go muscle” gets stronger because you learn to make quicker more deliberate decisions.

Again, remind yourself of what life after decluttering looks like. Keep that image firmly in your mind to help you stay motivated. 

A word of caution: be clear about the size of the smaller home, apartment, or condo that you would like to move into. Even if you may not have the exact property, it’s easy enough to guesstimate how much stuff to bring. For example, if you are moving from a four-bedroom home to a two-bedroom apartment, you will obviously not need four beds. 

People often make the mistake of bringing too much stuff, forcing them to double downsize, which can be frustrating, overwhelming, and expensive.

Also, note that you will likely have less storage space in your new smaller home so you will need to declutter first.

5. Downsizing can be expensive.

Moving entails numerous layers of expense, both visible and invisible that can impact whether you choose to downsize or stay where you are.

Consider labor and materials to help you pack, labor and manpower to help you move, realtors, closing costs of both the new and old properties, taxes, homeowner association fees and other miscellaneous expenses.

While there are many upsides to downsizing, there are also some downsides. It’s important to weigh both so that you can discern the right decision for you. 

Never miss an episode! Click the following link to like Rita’s Facebook page or subscribe to her Decluttering YouTube Channel. Check out our YouTube playlists if you want to learn more.

Sign up for Rita’s FREE Newsletter HERE!Follow me on social media for more updates:YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | TWITTERRita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post 5 Downsides to Downsizing first appeared on Design Services LTD.