Rita Wilkins's Blog, page 54

Your home (YOU’RE HOME) for the holiday: a Virtual Thanksgiving this year

By Rita Wilkins

The Downsizing Designer

This week kicks off the holiday season and many people I’ve talked to are dreading the holiday season this year because of the many restrictions and concerns surrounding the spread of covid-19.

But those of you who know me as a friend, as a design, or as a coach, or even as a mom, you know I am going to push back when I heard people say “there’s no way the holidays will be fun this year!”.

And you know I am going to encourage you to just think differently, to see through walls or barriers that are preventing you from believing it’s going to be a great holiday season.

In fact, you know that I am going to challenge each one of you to have your best holiday season!

 

For sure, almost everything in 2020 has been different… So why not…

1. Break old traditions all together and create new ones or

2. Re-invent the way you celebrate your old family traditions whether you are together or apart.

We all know how important family traditions are especially in uncertain times.

• They provide comfort

• They bring us together, near or far

• They are the glue that holds us together in spite of distance

We look forward to this time of year and today I am going to tell you that in spite of the pandemic you can still celebrate a semblance of family traditions that are safe, low stress, and fun! You just need to be a little creative.

Think of some of your family traditions you most enjoy, but you are telling yourself…

• “No way!”

• “I can’t possibly…”

• “Why bother?”

I’d like you to consider thinking differently and ask yourself: “How can you create a semblance of those traditions whether you are together or apart this year?”

One of my favorite poems is from Mother Theresa called “ANYWAY” you’ve probably heard it before, it goes like this:

“People are often unreasonable and self-centered

… LOVE THEM ANYWAY”

“If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motive.

… BE KIND ANYWAY”

“The good you do today, people often forget that tomorrow

… DO GOOD ANYWAY”

It seems paradoxical…

• To love anyway

• To be kind anyway

• To do good anyway

It seems contradictory and on many levels it seems unreasonable.

When you think about it, the pandemic is challenging us

• To be unreasonable

• To contradict the ways we’ve always celebrated the holidays

• To think differently so we can be safe, have fun, make memories while still celebrating this wonderful season that we have looked forward to all year long.

 

Another favorite poem “TOGETHER, YET APART”, was written by a young man who lost his dear “Poppy” and who was missing him during the holidays saying…

“Family reunions will never be the same

because you’re not here with us.”

“Your chair at the table is empty and cold

you need to come home

I need someone to hold.”

Have you ever taught the holidays would never be the same…?

• After a death of a loved one?

• After divorce?

• Or after your kids left home?

But what did you do? You reinvented what the holidays would “look like” in spite of the changes.

The same is true today. Due to the pandemic we are being challenged to reinvent holiday traditions whether we are together or apart.

Today I am going to challenge you and hopefully inspire you to think and act differently.

What can you and your loved ones do to create or design your best holiday ever?

I know some of you are resisting and thinking… “No way”, “I can’t”, or “why bother?”.

I ask you to think out of the box because you are the one that might be able to encourage not only your family but also your friends to think differently so you can all have the best holiday season ever whether together or apart.

 

Get your FREE download, 31 Lifestyle Upgrades Here

Objection vs. Solution
#1

Objection: “Why bother decorating for the holidays, no one will be here to enjoy it!”

Solution: To decorate anyway.

To borrow from Mother Theresa, decorate anyway so at least you can enjoy it.

• Whether it’s decorating the tree with a bright white lights and well-worn holiday ornaments

or

• Setting a beautiful table with linens, crystal, china, and silver

or

• Wearing your favorite holiday dress or ugliest holiday sweater made just for you by your favorite grandmother

it is important that you and your home feel and look festive. Put your favorite holiday music on, light your favorite scented candle, and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit whether together or apart.

 

#2

Objection: “Why bother, there’s no need to prepare traditional holiday foods, no one will be here to celebrate!”

Solution: To cook your traditional holiday foods anyway.

Whether its cooking for a large family gathering or cooking for one or two, it’s still the holiday season we look forward to all year.

The fun of planning a festive menu… some old recipes, some new will get you in the holiday spirit

• Share recipes with family and friends

• Cook together on zoom

• Share fun stories about past and future holidays together

• Whatever your family food traditions are, cook them anyway (maybe just smaller portions)

 

#3

Objection: “Why bother with gift-giving this year, it’s no fun without everyone here to open them

Solution: Give gifts anyway.

What are new ways you can give gifts without buying a thing? Get creative, give them the gift of your thoughtfulness and the gift of your time.

• Gratitude notes Handwritten notes on holiday note cards. Share a heartfelt message, thanking each family or friend for what they contribute to your life.

Who does love getting a note like that? Likely, you will make their day and they will cherish it for years to come.

• Care boxes Fill a box with few of their “favorite things”

Hand bagged cookies (they love that you are famous for)
Photos (memories of times together)
Funny memories of things you’ve done together (either by writing of videos)

Drop of or mail the care box that you’ve thoughtfully made.

• Donate to those in need

Donate your time, energy and money. The pandemic has been extremely hard on many people.
Donate to the food bank.
Donate excess clothing that you no longer need and someone would be grateful for. It’s the perfect time to clean out your closet.

 

#4

Objection: “Why bother getting together in person, there’s so many restrictions!”

Solution: Get together anyway.

Using safe guidelines, think differently. How could you get together with a few friends and with family while still being safe?

Here are a few ideas

• Al fresco Dining

• Create potluck dinners outside around the fire pit or surrounded by heat lamps

• Where new attire this year! Jackets, hats, gloves, and boots.

• Keep it simple, make it easy, but make it fun!

• Thanksgiving picnic in the park. Follow your picnic with a family hike make smores and pumpkin pie for dessert and create a family Olympics competition.

• Stories by the campfire. Invite young and old to participate. Share special memories of holidays traditions in the past

 

#5

Objection: How can a zoom call possibly replace in-person holiday fun?

Solution: Wear your ugly sweater anyway!

Why not carry on the fun family traditions anyway whether together or apart.

• Have a zoom or facetime virtual holiday that will allow you to be together in spite of the distance.

• Why not still have your ugly sweater family contest?

• Why not bake holiday cookies or dinners together?

• Why not carve pumpkins together? or decorate trees together?

I hope you are inspired or even fired up to not let the pandemic get in your way of celebrating… truly celebrating the holidays this year.

“When one of those objections of why bother comes up? Smack it down and create new ways to have one of your best most memorable holiday seasons ever.”

 

 

“I am committed to each and every one of you living out your best life now!”

Rita Wilkins

The Downsizing Designer

Office # 302-475-5663

Check out my book on Amazon “Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom” CLICK HERE

 

 

The post Your home (YOU'RE HOME) for the holiday: a Virtual Thanksgiving this year first appeared on Design Services LTD.

How a REVERSE BUCKET LIST can reboot and reignite your life and your career

By Rita Wilkins

The Downsizing Designer

One of the most talked about subjects of our time and at this stage of our lives, is how to successfully navigate these uncertain times so we can not only survive, but thrive in life. In Bruce Feiler’s new book, Life Is in the Transitions, he refers to times of great upheaval and uncertainty as “Life Quakes.”

He defines them as massive life changes, either voluntary or involuntary, that cause us to dig deeply, to think differently so we can come out on the other side stronger AND better.

 

The Gift of Time

No matter who you are, what you do, or where you live, on some level, everyone has been impacted by Covid-19. We have experienced significant uncertainty and disruption in our lives and in our businesses.

And yet, at the same time, the world-wide pandemic has provided us with a truly unique opportunity to slow down, rethink, and reconsider “what’s next.”

The pandemic has provided us with the “gift” of time – one that we have never experienced before in our lifetimes. Embracing this pause, we can be more intentional when we pivot from the life we have been living to the life we’ve dreamed about.

This is, of course, the life we put on the back burner or on our “someday” list. It’s a life filled with passion, purpose, and meaning.

Now, more than ever before, is the perfect time to reimagine, reboot, and reignite our lives and our careers so that our Third Act is our best act yet in spite of all that we might be going through.

 

5 Statements to Consider

Have you found yourself saying one of these:

“Life is just too short, and I’m running out of time to follow my dreams.”

“I just can’t do this (job) anymore.”

“I’ve been asking myself if this is all there is.”

“I want and need so much more (fulfillment, joy, happiness).”

“It’s time for me – finally!”

Just like you, many midlife women are facing similar “Life Quakes,” some from their own choosing and some that were thrust upon them.

 

The Life Quakes We Face
Demanding Career

You have chosen to leave an extremely fast-paced, “always-on” career that, while financially rewarding, is physically and emotionally draining. You are now ready to discover a more balanced lifestyle business, one that affords you more time and freedom.

Switching Direction

You would like to explore a completely new direction in your life and in your business, one that will make you feel fully alive and on fire, living your passion, purpose, and the “why that makes you cry.”

New Reality

You are faced with a sudden new reality of job loss, death of a spouse, serious diagnosis. You are wanting to – or having to reengage – in the workforce to supplement your income.

Facing Fear

You are in unfamiliar territory. You’re afraid. You’re stuck. You know you have to do something, but you don’t know how. Change is never easy, so how can you turn these challenges into opportunities?

 

Click here to learn more about the reverse bucket list

 

What Is a Reverse Bucket List

 

We are all familiar with the Traditional Bucket List (TBL) – that well-worn list that helps us step out of our comfort zones, push us to do things we always wanted to do, but never thought we would… or could.

The TBL is aspirational and great for moving us forward. However, it leaves us feeling guilty, reminding us of all of the things we still haven’t done. It’s like having a “to-do” list hanging over our heads.

Conversely, the Reverse Bucket List (RBL) is inspirational. It helps us reflect and focus on all that we have already accomplished in life, including the big things and the important “little things.” Things that make us proud, lessons we have learned, experiences, and people that have shaped who we are today and have given our life meaning.

It helps us to acknowledge ourselves and to be grateful for who we are and who we have become. An RBL boosts our self-esteem, gives us perspective, and can serve as a great reminder when we feel discouraged.

The Reverse Bucket List is a motivational tool that will help you reconnect with the dreams you once had but might have forgotten. It will inspire you to create new goals by identifying when you were happiest when you were most fulfilled so you can “repeat” or create new experiences like those that gave your life meaning.

The RBL can be an invaluable catalyst to see your life through a new lens so you can think differently as you are creating a bold new vision for the life you want to have as you carve out “what’s next” in your future.

 

Why Do You Need a Reverse Bucket List?

Here are my top 10 ways you can use a RBL to reignite and reboot your life and career:

1. Appreciation

Your personal and professional goals and experiences, the lives you have impacted, the obstacles you have overcome, your proudest moments can provide a new-found appreciation, gratitude, and respect for all that you’ve already accomplished.

 

2. Validation

Don’t disregard those hard-earned skills that helped you move forward in spite of challenges. Connect the dots with what you most enjoy doing with your passion, purpose, and unique gifts.

 

3. Clarity

Consider the following questions:

What did you fight for?
Which values are non-negotiable?
What is the “why that makes you cry?”

 

4. Insight and Perspective

What were you doing when you lost all track of time?
When did you feel most fulfilled, regardless of whether you were compensated or not?
What surprised you the most?

 

5. Deeper Connection

What do you want more of in your life? Why don’t you have that now?
What do you want less of? Are there things you need to let go?
What do you yearn for that you don’t have now?

 

6. Vision and Blueprint

Start dreaming again without putting limits to your dreams. Big dreams, little dreams. New dreams, old dreams. Design the life you want now.

 

7. Inspiration

Create goals that match your vision. Commit to a plan of action and create a realistic timeline to implement it.

 

8. Learning to Live Your Life on the Skinny Branches

Commit to stepping out of your comfort zone. Do what scares you. Stop playing small. This will lead you to the life you want so can live with no regrets.

 

9. Support

You will need a team of like-minded people who will support and challenge you. They will help you brainstorm ideas, expand your dreams and goals, help you accomplish them, and hold you accountable.

 

10. Celebrate

Finally, don’t just stand there. Celebrate the promise of your new life. The one you get to design. A life that is meaningful, fulfilling, and allows you to make a difference not just for yourself, but for others.

If you want to thrive in your Third Act and live the life you really want, now is the perfect time to reboot and reignite your life and career.

Regardless of your life situation, it’s almost certain that when you rediscover your passion and purpose, not only will you be utilizing your unique gifts, talents, and resources, but you will also be living a life of freedom, fulfillment, and joy!

This would be a life where work feels like play. Where you can make a good income and have a big impact. Where you can hardly wait to start your day!

 

What “Life Quakes” have you experienced? Have you asked yourself “what’s next?” What do you want to have more of – or less of – in your life? I would love to hear from you!




Rita Wilkins

The Downsizing Designer

Schedule your complimentary 30-minute phone call HERE

And check out my book “Downsize your life, Upgrade your lifestyle” HERE

The post How a REVERSE BUCKET LIST can reboot and reignite your life and your career first appeared on Design Services LTD.

How to make decluttering easy, effective, AND FUN!

I’m going to talk about a subject very few people will classify as fun.

It’s how you can make decluttering easy, effective, AND FUN!

Probably several of you are rolling your eyes right now saying “No way!” and yet, maybe a few of you are wanting desperately to know how.

But first, let’s talk about clutter and the impact it’s having on the quality of your life.

 

#1 What is clutter?

Clutter is simply a series of postponed decisions. For example:

you can choose to put your clothes away or lay them on your chair.
you can choose to deal with your mail right away or you can let it keep piling up.


Clutter is lacking clarity about what’s important and what’s not.
Clutter is not making a decision in that moment, it’s deferring one decision and then another and another until you have piles of postponed decisions.

 

#2 Think about what clutter is costing you

When there is underlying anxiety about having too much stuff it can cause stress, guilt, frustrations, and arguments.
Not knowing where to find things wastes time, energy, money and impacts productivity.
When you are overwhelmed by too much stuff/clutter in your life and when you aren’t able to clearly focus and be productive, clutter can impact your health, wealth, and relationships.

 

#3 How decluttering can help you make room for what matters most to you

“Why do you want to declutter?”

It is important to first know why you want to declutter. The why is actually more important than how.

For your mental health and well being

When you are overwhelmed with too much stuff it takes an extraordinary amount of and energy causing overwhelm and upset.

For your financial wealth and well being

When you continue buying more you continue to contribute to not only the clutter but also to the stress and overwhelm.

For your relationships

Clutter frequently causes arguments that can be avoided. By agreeing to declutter, live with less, and appreciate what you have more, you can make more time for each other.

For better use of your time and increase your productivity

Having a home for everything can save you time and energy, allowing you to focus and make better use of your time.

 

Three simple steps to get started

1. Take one step at a time.

 One drawer, one closet, one shelf at a time. The clutter did not happen overnight allow yourself time to declutter.

2. Focus on your own stuff first.

Reduce arguments by getting your own stuff in order. If your spouse is a hoarder or if your kids move back home, clutter creep and clutter chaos are inevitable. Start with your own stuff, be the role model they might follow your lead.

3.  Holding on may actually be harder than letting go.

Think of the time, money, and energy you will save when you don’t own so much stuff.

When you begin to understand what clutter is costing you and when you know why you want to declutter, this will help you stay in the game on your downsizing journey.

 

# 4 How you can actually have fun decluttering

You’ve heard of extreme sports, extreme makeovers, and extreme food shows, but have you heard of extreme decluttering parties?

I created this concept several years ago when I downsized from my 5000 square foot home to my 867 square feet apartment. I was overwhelmed and had no idea where to begin. I thought I could do it myself but was reduced to tears every single day for 30 days. Then I got smart! I called one of my sisters and ask her if she would help. The following weekend, my sister came from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania to help me and brought 2 other team members… my other sister and sister in law.

I suddenly had a team! I was not alone! I was committed to not only getting a lot done but also committed to having a lot of fun! That’s when I created the extreme decluttering party.

 

#5 How my high impact method of decluttering works

Know your “why”.

My why was to have a simpler less cluttered life with less so I could have more time, money, and freedom to pursue what mattered most to me.

My why was also to have less stress and anxiety over maintaining a large property alone. I wanted a higher quality of life with more time, money, and freedom so I can make room for what mattered most.

Ask yourself what is your “why”. Why you want to declutter?

Make a written plan, set goals, and timelines.
Pick a date or several dates. Put them on the calendar so that this will actually happen and not be differed to someday.
Invite team members to participate in your downsizing party. Three to four members are ideal so that it is more manageable.
Have your team members each commit to a day and time.
Pick a specific area of your home you want to work on one that is manageable to complete within three to four hours. For example, a corner of your garage, basement, or attic.
Review all items in that area, mark those that you are keeping, and put them aside.
Share your strategy with your team members and assign specific tasks.






Sorter: Sort into piles of donate, sell, consign, or trash
Packer: Pack items into boxes or bags
Stager: Stage supplies (i.e. boxes, scissors, knives, tape, trash bags)
Deliverer: Delivers to the designated destination

NOTE: Make sure to take before, during, and after pictures throughout your extreme decluttering party.

Post a timeline (i.e. three to four hours in 50 minutes increments with 10-minute breaks.)
Set a timer!
Have fun! Make memories and make sure to share your before, during, and after photos with family and friends to inspire them to have their own extreme decluttering party.
When the time is up you are done for the day. Stop! It’s now time for the party with food, wine, stories, and laughter.

 

If you want help planning your own extreme decluttering party,

call me for a 30-minute consult and I can show you how https://calendly.com/rwilkins/coaching-call-with-rita?month=2020-11

 

A few last thoughts to prepare you for success with my quick, high-impact decluttering method.

Be prepared to make quick, firm, and ruthless decisions.
Be ready to let go of your stuff because there will be no time to second guess yourself.
Commit to making this happen.
Repeat the process week after week. You will begin to see tremendous progress over time while at the same time creating very special memories.
Remember this can be overwhelming. Keep your why in mind throughout the process. It will keep you going even when you want to give up.

 

BEST WISHES ON YOUR DOWNSIZING JOURNEY!

 

Are you ready to take your downsizing journey seriously?

Click here to sign up for my 6-week decluttering challenge.

 

The post How to make decluttering easy, effective, AND FUN! first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Are You Ready To Downsize Your Life And Upgrade Your Lifestyle?

Downsize Your Life With The Help Of Downsizing Designer Rita Wilkins

Are you ready to simplify your life? Do you find yourself wanting to downsize or declutter, but aren’t sure where to start? I’m Rita Wilkins, also known as the Downsizing Designer, and I’m here to help you downsize your life. As a lifestyle design expert, I help people downsize and declutter themselves and their lives so they can live a simpler life with less.

What Does It Mean To Downsize And Upgrade Your Life?

Many of you are familiar with my book, Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money and Freedom. People often ask me, “Rita, what does it mean to downsize your life and upgrade your lifestyle?” Today, I’d like to talk about that with you.

Consider this: You have a good life. You have a nice home, a great family, a nice car, a good job. Even so, every once in a while, you might ask yourself: “What’s wrong? Why don’t I feel content? Is that all there is?” You aren’t sure what’s missing, but you are on the hunt for it. You may try to find this “something missing” through buying things – a bigger house, a new car, a fancy gadget. Afterward, you still feel empty.

Have You Ever Considered That You Might Actually Need LESS To Be Happier?

I know it seems crazy. Our culture tells us – “bigger is better, more is better, more will make you happier.” But does it really? Many of the memories we hold most dear are those that cost us nothing but enjoying the moment. Think of a meal spent laughing and visiting with family, a long walk taken with your children where you saw the world through their eyes, or the unending gratefulness that came from helping an elderly relative. These things bring fulfillment, happiness, and contentment. These things cost you nothing.

In essence, this is what a downsized life can bring you – more these. Living a downsized life, you have more time, more freedom, and more money to create moments like that. A decluttered life leads to you experiencing life differently. You’re more aware, more present, more in the moment, and more intentional. You also learn to value what you have more.

To learn more about what it means to downsize your life and upgrade your lifestyle, please watch my video, “What does it mean to downsize your life?”

Rita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services

Do you want to learn more? 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. Do you have questions you would like to ask? Schedule a complimentary 30-minute call with me today.

The post Are You Ready To Downsize Your Life And Upgrade Your Lifestyle? first appeared on Design Services LTD.

6 Important tips you should know prior to undertaking a big renovation

Practical advice to anyone considering a kitchen renovation

There’s probably no renovation you can undertake that is more disruptive and inconvenient than a kitchen renovation. “After all, it is the heart of the home” …

The hub is not just for cooking, but also for

Hanging out
Eating
Working
Entertaining
Snacking
Homework
Seating
And engaging in meaningful conversations

When all of those activities are interrupted, there’s inevitable chaos and upset.

But thinking through some of these problems in advance cannot only prevent arguments and undue stress, but it can also streamline the process, making it go much smoother.

In my career as an interior designer for over 35 years, I have personally designed about 10 kitchens per year… That’s 350 kitchens! That’s a lot of kitchens! But it is also a lot of hands-on experience and knowledge garnered from each of those 350 projects.

These are just a few of my top tips that I want to share with you if you are considering a kitchen renovation.

 

#1 Make sure your measures are accurate

Since kitchen design is so precise, if you are off by even an inch or two, cabinets may not fit, additional costs might be incurred for reordering cabinets. Timelines can be backed up and a plethora of other domino effects can occur. I recommend measuring three to four times “because every inch counts.”

I personally measure every kitchen with one of my designers, I then recommend that the general contractor who will be doing the work and the kitchen cabinet provider also do their own measures to confirm accuracy and consistency.

 

#2 Set a realistic budget and then add 20%

When you are budgeting for a kitchen renovation or any renovation for that matter, it is best to calculate all possible costs then add 20% for the inevitable, unforeseen conditions behind the walls.  For example, when a kitchen is demoed, we have discovered rotten wood underneath the dishwasher, improper wiring, and beams that needed additional support. Each of these scenarios and many others are often discovered once demolition transpires and when the walls, floors, and ceilings are fully exposed.

They must be rectified to pass inspections and you will be responsible for the costs. Therefore, your additional 20% will already be calculated into your budget estimate.

It’s best to anticipate and predict this when you are budgeting your project so there is no need for any surprises.

Interested in free kitchen renovation tips?

Download your free 22 steps to Downsize Your Stress, Upgrade your kitchen design success

https://www.designservicesltd.com/kitchen-tips/

 

#3 Set a realistic timeline and then add 20%

The average time that it takes to renovate a medium-sized kitchen is 6-8 weeks. A larger kitchen needs 10-12 weeks or more depending on the extent of the renovation.

Budgeting for actual work should include adding on for the unavoidable time delays (cabinets, appliances, and countertop templating), or any additions to the original scope of work.

Be nicely surprised when your project gets completed on time and on budget, but also prepare yourself for unexpected delays.

 

#4 Prepare well in advance for kitchen demolition

Edit the items you do not want or no longer use. For example, additional mugs, plastic containers, small appliances. Donate, sell, or give away. There’s no need to take up space in your new cabinets with items you no longer need or use.
Box up and store items that you will not need during the renovation.
Keep only the essentials for basic cooking needs.

 

#5 Not able to visualize your finished kitchen project?

Not everyone can visualize the finished project. However, everyone wants to and needs to have a clear vision prior to start of work. As a designer, we use every design tool imaginable to help our clients who have difficulty visualizing their projects prior to start. So, we provide

3D renderings.
Physical templating of the floor with the client (i.e. the size of your kitchen island.)
Visit neighbors who have a similar house and may have completed a similar renovation.

Note: Not to copy the neighbor but rather help you visualize what it may look like if you are to remove a wall.  This will not clarify your vision for the renovation but it will also inspire and motivate you.

 

# 6 Weigh the ADVANTAGES and DISADVANTAGES of staying in your home while renovating

Start by making your list with two columns.

ADVANTAGES of staying in your home while renovating
DISADVANTAGES of staying in your home while renovating




The ability to oversee your project day to day
Help keep the project on track
To troubleshoot and handle any critical on-site decisions that need to be made in a timely manner
Food preparation at home saves money

 


The dust
The mess
The noise (all the other fun stuff)
Possibility of allergy
And did I say Stress???
Upset
Being in the way of the contractor and slowing the process
The inconvenience of living off-site (for a period of time)
The additional cost of food and eating out
Potential disagreements and arguments with the general contractor

It is definitely worth your while to do due diligence prior if you are considering a major renovation. This will help you avoid the extra hassle, delays, and expenses.  It also helps you prevent the “I wish I had known”.

It helps you prepare in advance and anticipate potential issues with regard to money, time, and stress.

I hope that this helped you have an idea on how to “expect the unexpected.”

 

LET’S STAY CONNECTED!

Visit my website and get your free designer tips for your kitchen.

or schedule your complimentary call with me here.

The post 6 Important tips you should know prior to undertaking a big renovation first appeared on Design Services LTD.

How Do Designers Come Up With New Ideas?

 

Have you ever wondered how designers and other creative people keep coming up with one idea after another? As an interior designer for over 35 years, I have designer projects all over the US but until a client recently asked me that question, I never even thought about it!

But today, I’d like to explore that topic with you. So even if you’re not particularly creative, and wish you were, maybe this can help you.

3 Top Tips For Generating New Ideas

Something that I’ve noticed is that when I am challenged by a big project, I find myself saying things like “I have no idea how to do this, but I’m going to figure it out,” or “I’ve never done this before but I’m going to give it my best shot.” Based on this, I believe there may be 3 key ingredients to generating multiple new ideas.

1. Be Open To New Ideas And Fearless

Ask questions like “What if,” and “What would it be like…” As an example, my downsizing journey was an adventure in being completely open to “What would it be like to live with a lot less” (95% less)?

Asking that question provided a whole new less cluttered life!

2. Be Curious

Let your imagination run wild. Imagine what’s possible. Start to see things with new eyes.

The ability to see things differently or, as my son would say, the ability to “see through walls,” is important. You need to be able to look beyond the current circumstances and conditions. Think beyond “the walls.” Begin to generate as many ideas as you can and then test them out and move forward as needed.

3. Have A Good “Toolkit”

My #1 tool is to ask questions. Asking questions helps me better step into someone’s shoes and walk around in them. This ultimately helps me better understand their “pain” so I can help design a solution.

To learn more about my creative process and how I utilize these “ingredients” to help generate new ideas, please watch my video – “How designers come up with new ideas.”

Rita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services

Do you want to learn more? 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. Do you have questions you would like to ask? Schedule a complimentary 30-minute call with me today.

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Start Refreshing Your Home Without Spending A Dime

How Can To Refresh Your Home Without Spending A Dime

I’m Rita Wilkins – also known as the “downsizing designer.” As some of you already know, I am living with 95% less than what I used to own and I have never been happier. As the downsizing designer, I help others learn how to start decluttering or downsizing so that they, too, can live a happier, less cluttered life.

Today I’d like to introduce you to a few tricks of the design trade for refreshing your home without spending even one dime. These are just a few of my personal bag of design tricks that I’ve developed over many years. When I was growing up, my mom would call it “making do.” It’s one of those good old-fashioned words that means re-purposing, re-using, recycling. Whatever you want to call it, it’s using what you already have, so you can stay within a budget and still make things new and fresh all over again.

After a long year during which we’ve all been impacted by the Coronavirus (COVID 19) pandemic. After sheltering in place for so long you probably find yourself needing, now more than ever, to refresh your home. It will not only improve your psyche, it will also impact your energy levels and overall happiness.

My 5 Favorite Tricks To Make Your Home Beautiful Without Spending A Dime

1. Move Your Existing Furniture Around

Take the furniture you already have and create a new furniture floorplan. For example, floating or angling a sofa will make the room feel so different. It is absolutely one of my personal favorites because it costs nothing other than a little elbow grease. I recommend doing this seasonally. During winter and fall, it feels cozier to orient your furniture closer to your fireplace, while in spring and summer you may want to move the furniture back to create a more open feeling.

2. Re-Purpose Furniture From Another Room

This is like going on a scavenger hunt around your own home. Look around your house for “found” furniture. You may find furniture that you’ve forgotten about simply because it’s been in the same place for years and has gone unnoticed. Walk through your home with a new set of eyes and it’ll be as if you’re seeing it for the first time.

3. Re-Purpose Accessories and Accent Pieces

Go on another scavenger hunt, look for accessories that you may have forgotten you even had and you don’t even see anymore. You will start to notice things that have been sitting in guest rooms, on bookcases, and in libraries. Look for mirrors, lamps, vases, throws, artwork, etc. You’ll be amazed how different the room feels once you take an accessory out of one room and move it to another. Give them a new home and your home will look and feel like new.

4. Start With A Clean Slate

Empty everything from a bookcase. Commit to not putting it back in the same place and using “new” repurposed accessories/photos/books. Redecorate your shelves.

5. Repurpose The Rooms Themselves

Look at each room and ask yourself these 2 questions:

1. Why does this room (I.e. dining room) only have to be a dining room?

2. How else can it be used/repurposed to better utilize the space or maximize its usage? I.e. Could the dining room also be a library, reading room, music room, etc.

Be creative, be resourceful!

“Make do” and make your home new again.

To learn more about my favorite tips and tricks for refreshing your home, watch my video – “How to refresh your home without spending a dime.”

Connect and follow me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RitaSWilkins... LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritawilki... Schedule a complimentary 30-minute call: https://calendly.com/rwilkins/coachin...

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How working with a designer can prevent your next design project from becoming a nightmare

We have all probably had a few scary stories to tell about home renovation projects that didn’t go well. Or you probably heard friends and family share their nightmarish details of projects gone wrong.

“The right interior designer can actually help take the fear out of the process on your next design or renovation project.”

 

#1 When I say the right designer, I mean one that is a good fit for you, one that has the knowledge, training, field experience and one that you actually enjoy working with.

Like any working relationship, with your doctor or lawyer, your designer needs “to get you”, your taste, your style, your wants, your needs, and your wish lists, and last but not the least, your budget.

Their business practices need to align with yours

Knowing how much things cost upfront
Working with proposals and contracts
Providing information about fee structure, billing, etc.

 “In other words, the right designer is not only a good designer but is also a good business person.”

   

#2 How to find the right designer for you

After doing your research on the web, checking out testimonials, etc. Ask friends, family, and colleagues.

Hire the designer for an initial consult to walk through your projects.
See if they listen, take notes, and ask questions to get to know you and what you want, need, don’t need and your goals.
Do you like their ideas? Are there things that he or she recommended that you had not thought of before?

The communication style, method of communication, and frequency

Check out their website and get personal references
Do they do videos and blogs?
Do you like what you see and hear?
Ask how they work, services that they provide, and their design fees.

 

#3 Do their values align with yours and are they skilled on all phases of the design and construction process?

 This vetting process is definitely worth your time and the small cost of an initial consultation to get the right designer for you, someone who is qualified and someone you will enjoy working with.

Once you have selected the designer you want to work with, here are just a few ways a designer can help prevent those nightmarish projects.

 

WITH THE RIGHT DESIGNER

WITH A PLAN
DOING IT YOURSELF

WITHOUT A PLAN




You will get your project off the ground
You will set realistic expectations on budgets and timelines
You will get through the process with the designer at your side, as a trusted adviser.
Your designer will help you avoid mistakes by providing multiple option and choices
You will get it right the first time by working on time and within budget




You risk getting overwhelmed and not being able to make up your mind
You might get tired of waiting cause the project never seems to get started
You might wish you’ve had explored more options
By not having a final plan that you are happy with the outcome may not be exactly what you wanted
By not being familiar with the bidding process and selecting reliable trades, you may end up getting poor bids
You end up wasting viable time and money!

“The right designer is knowledgeable about the entire design and construction process.”

The right designer has experience in the design, bidding, specification, and construction processes as well as, project management. And the right designer knows how to trouble shoot and problem solve so you don’t have to worry as the project will be overseen through the entire process.

You may have a strong desire to make it happen and you might even know some of the processes, and yes, it might even look easy, but it is still best to take into consideration the possible lack of expertise and experience. Your lack of expertise and experience. It is certainly helpful to be able to trouble shoot and seek alternative solutions for problems that might occur in the field. This helps prevent stress and overwhelm.

“The right designer has limitless ideas and choices.”  

You might regret not exploring multiple options and ideas. When offered only a few options, you might end up wishing you have thought of that before it was too late and too expensive to change.

Lighting is a perfect example. The right lighting can make all the difference. Too often people will say, if “I had only known”. Don’t let that be you.

 

If you are considering a designer renovation project for your home or for your office, visit my website.

Schedule your complimentary call with me here.

“Let me help you prevent your nightmarish renovation story.”

The post How working with a designer can prevent your next design project from becoming a nightmare first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Do you have a love hate relationship with your bathroom?

How to fall in love (with your bathroom)…

Hi, I’m Rita Wilkins, also known as the downsizing designer. Do you have a love hate relationship with your bathroom? And would you like to fall in love with your bathroom all over again? As an interior designer for over 35 years, we’ve done bathrooms and kitchens and other spaces all over the country and one of the things I frequently hear is, “I hate my bathroom!” This is kind of an interesting statistic, we spend, on averag, 30 minutes a day in our bathroom. On an annual basis, that’s 182 hours in the bathroom.  Then if you live to be the age of 85, that’s 15,000 hours!

That’s a lot of time. Now, if you spend more time in there, if you like long showers, long baths, obviously, that number will go up. But regardless, it’s a lot of time, and especially if you hate your bathroom. So, have you ever thought about how a bathroom impacts the quality of your life, the happiness you have every morning?

Let’s just say that the bathroom space is tight. There’s two of you in there. At the same time, he’s messy, she’s not or maybe vice versa. One leaves towels on the floor, the other one has to pick them up. You know, so it causes stress and aggravation. Sometimes the bathroom actually becomes a battleground. But, it doesn’t have to be that way.

Some of the funny stories I’ve heard over the years is where people have to actually skinny past each other just to get to the toilet, or they have to actually get wet, just to get into the shower. Sometimes they have lighting that makes them look like a ghost, and who wants to have that first thing in the morning, it’s not a good way to start your day, but many of the stories that I hear, or the complaints that I hear are about how they impact their overall quality of life, their happiness and their mood. So, as an example, not enough storage, not the right kind of storage, or no storage at all. So as pretty as pedestal sinks are they don’t provide any storage, the vanity is too high, it’s too low, the toilets too high, so it’s too low, or the shower is not big enough, or the bathtub is too high to get in and out of. So yes, as a designer, part of my role is to actually listen to many of these complaints. And as you can imagine, I have been in the middle of a lot of battles over my lifetime. You know, being right in the middle of he said she wants to she wants that. She does this, he does that, towels on the floor, makeup on the sink, whatever it is, I’m right in the middle of that. But also, one of the roles that I relish is to actually listen to what those battles are and listen more deeply. So and hopefully defuse them.

By listening, observing, and asking, as my boys would say, my mother will ask you 1,000 questions. That’s how I get to know what you really want, what you don’t want, and what would make them both happy, and fall in love with that bathroom all over again, and hopefully, each other all over again. So today, I want to share with you a very useful design tool that I developed somewhere along the way. And I’m not sure exactly when but it was probably in the middle of one of those battles. I’ve got to figure this out. I created what I call the wants, needs and wish list. What do you want? What do you need? What do you wish for, and in this case in your bathroom, so I actually have a printout that I hand to them.

Let’s just say at home, take a piece of paper, put it into three columns, your wants, your needs and your wish list. Then I asked them to fill it out independent of each other, that there’s also methodology there and that’s what they both heard, that he wants to she wants that. When we take these lists and we review them together, frequently we found we find a lot of common ground and we also see where they differ. Then we talked about what and how can we compromise and of course, then I can design accordingly trying to incorporate all of their wants, their needs and their wishlist into  the designs that I present.

I first encourage them to think about function, and then aesthetics. So here’s an example of a client that I had recently, they were in their early 60s, knowing that they were aging, wanting to stay in this home for quite a long time, as long as they could, they wanted to age in place. So, as they created their wants, needs and wish list, the needs were very, very important. As we age, as they were aging, there were certain things that they said,  they absolutely wanted and had to have one a curb less shower, in the event that one of them, or both of them were in walkers or wheelchairs, they could actually roll in a seat in the shower, which is logical, grab bars, of course, handheld shower, comfort, high toilet, easy to get in and out of, and touchless faucets. Now, that’s not an extensive list. But, those are the things that they absolutely had to have, and we talked about more than that.

But that was the combined effort of the wants needs and wish lists. On the one side, they both agreed they both wanted a soaking tub, which worked into their project, better linen storage, so they didn’t have to go outside of the bathroom to get the linens that they needed. They both wanted heated floors. And then they both said, adamantly they they were opposed to sharing vanities. So, we had his and her vanities. That was a way that we could solve issues that they might have argued about in the past, they no longer have to argue about it. And we were able to accommodate, of course, all the needs as they age, as it came to the wish list. And none of this was out of sorts. They they agreed on they wanted, a washer dryer close by with all of that to make their life easier, they both wanted to TV, and then a remote control self cleaning toilet with a nightlight. Now, that was on the higher budget side of what they wanted, but we were able to fit into their budget.

So that’s an example of how a once needs and wish list does really help to combine all of the things they they wanted for this dream bathroom that they ultimately got. Then we went to the aesthetic. This is the same couple, they both wanted something timeless, they knew that ultimately, when the house sold, they didn’t want it to be dated. They want to be peaceful, serene and spa like.  Okay, so that’s part of the look, they both wanted the lighter woods, lighter countertops, and lots of natural light. Then on the wish list side, they wanted a skylight which we were actually able to get in there. They wanted a view of the outside which was pretty easy to do in their particular case. They also want a fireplace, we were able to get something in there and then also a coffee, juice and wine bar.

So these are examples of the kind of things that I see in here every single day. Honestly, the ones who need some wish list items have been a little bit of a miracle for my design business because it helps me get to what they really want and also help solve their disagreements. So, if you want to fall in love with your bathroom and each other all over again, try using the wants, needs and wish lists. It helps you design that dream bathroom that you can both love for many years to come. So, hopefully this has been helpful.

You can go to my website, www.RitaWilkins.com and I just enjoy getting the word out about some of the funny things I hear every day and some of the very meaningful things that can change people’s lives through design. Then there’s also something else in how to design your dream bathroom. Those are both free downloads, just go to my website, www.RitaWilkins.com and download them. If you have questions , please reach out to me or comment. I’d love to hear from you.

The post Do you have a love hate relationship with your bathroom? first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Downsize by Decluttering

Downsizing is on the minds of many Americans…especially now! And, particularly with Baby Boomers who are or will become empty nesters in the not too distant future. With fewer day-to-day responsibilities, they’ve suddenly discovered more time and freedom to pursue interests that have been put on the back burner.

And, even if you’re not a Baby Boomer, since sheltering in place for over 6 months, are you asking yourself…Is this right house for you and your family?

Are you looking to simplify your life, live with less stuff and less clutter so you can prioritize your time differently?…So you can spend less time organizing and managing all of your stuff and spend more quality time with your family, friends and loved ones.
Now that you have been spending far more time in your home than you did in the past, are you realizing just how much stuff you have accumulated, but rarely use?…Stuff that takes up valuable space that could be used for something else…or maybe not needed at all.
Are you asking yourself whether your big house is what you even want any longer, with all of the costs associated with maintenance and upkeep?
Are you questioning whether you should consider a smaller more manageable house so you can spend more time on other things you enjoy?

But, the reality is you may not be ready to make such a dramatic lifestyle decision, or you may need or want to explore other options.

So, people are always asking me: Is there a way to downsize, to a simpler less cluttered life without having to move?

The simple answer is “Yes.” You can Downsize by Decluttering.

…AND…

The more complicated answer is if you want a simpler lifestyle, so you have more time, money and freedom, then the question becomes: Are you willing to give up needing more?

As Americans we have accumulated a lot of stuff. According to a University of California study, the average American household has over 3000,000 items in it. All of this stuff contributes to more stress, more anxiety and more overwhelm. It also provides for less time and less energy for what matters most to you.

The good news is…

You don’t have to downsize to reap the benefits of downsizing that will contribute to a simpler more abundant life.

The bad news is…

You have to give up wanting more if you want to move toward a less cluttered, more intentional life.

The 5 Steps to Downsize by Decluttering

Start the editing process today.


Don’t wait another minute.
Walk through your home and ask yourself what do you no longer want, need or use?
Get rid of them.
Get rid of duplicates and triplicates.

Begin noticing how much excess you have. As you begin to see progress, you gain momentum. Your family might even start to notice! Engage them in the process.

Start paying attention to how much you already have.


Begin appreciating what you have.
When we value what we have we start to need less.


Practice discerning WANT vs. NEED.


Each time you go buy something, ask if it contributes to your goal of enjoying a simpler life.
Will one more pair of great boots make you happy? Will they add value to your new lifestyle?


Make a habit of using what you already have and buy only what you need.


Get creative about what you can make for dinner using what you already have.
Get creative with what you already have in your closet, so you don’t buy more.
Challenge yourself to make “due.”
Surprise yourself with how much time and money you can save by using what you already have.


Stop buying MORE!


As obvious as this might seem, challenge yourself to stop buying for at least 30 days.
When you keep buying more you are sabotaging your efforts to live a less cluttered life.

If you are considering downsizing in the future, but you’re not yet ready, try Downsizing by Decluttering.

Your home will look and feel lighter.
You will feel lighter, freer and happier.
You will wonder why you didn’t do this sooner!

Living with less allows you to live more!

And, remember to…

Create and live the life you love by…design!

If you are interested in knowing more, here are a few ways I can help:

Request my FREE step-by-step guide “ABC’s of Downsizing.”

Buy my #1 Amazon Bestselling book “Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money and Freedom.” Chapter 7 is devoted to “Downsizing by Decluttering.”

Try my 6-Week Decluttering Challenge: Win the Duel Over Clutter, Get Your Life Back!

Watch my TEDx talk “Downsize Your Life: Why Less is More” with almost 1,000,000 million views.

Schedule a complimentary call with me.

Do you have a downsizing or decluttering story that you’d like to share? I would love to hear from you. If you have any questions or comments, I invite you to email me Rita Wilkins, The Downsizing Designer at rwilkins@designservicesltd.com