What's Your Downsizing Fantasy?

I've been helping folks let go of their stuff for years now; it's challenging and rewarding work. Slowly, as the age of consumption winds down, more and more people are coming to the realization that less is more. The most dramatic example I've seen recently of real life letting go is right in my own neighborhood. Our friends have decided to sell their huge, painstakingly restored Victorian and just about everything in it as they plan to swap their suburban American lifestyle for the laid-back island life in Costa Rica.

Not everyone will go to such extremes, but it is kind of fun to ponder. Could downsizing be the key to happiness? Based on my experience, yes. Having lived in many places, big and small, new and old, I've found that stress levels are inversely related to the size of your house. It's no surprise that the bigger the home, the bigger the cost and/or hassle to maintain it. A small home is considered a Feng Shui opportunity. What does that mean? Simply that the less space you have, the less you can afford to clutter up with stuff. It motivates you to edit extraneous items and live in every room, every day. Additionally, small houses decrease your carbon footprint, cut your energy costs and lower your taxes.

One of the most common reasons people give for moving is the need for more space, and in some rare cases (Octomom & Kate Gosselin), perhaps that need is legitimate. However, in most situations, smaller families are living in huge houses and filling them with lots of stuff.  If that's your story, join the club and ask yourself,
"What's my downsizing fantasy?" Seriously, how would your life change if you dared to downsize? If you're in need of inspiration, check out the "Moving to Costa Rica" Estate Sale, 4th of July weekend at the corner of Prairie & Highland in Downers Grove, IL. And call me if you need some help.

Home improvement resolutions

Do you have home improvement resolutions but don't know where to begin? If you need to kick a project into gear, consider these simple but motivating strategies:

• Seek inspiration and ideas. Check out HGTV, BHG.com (Better Homes and Gardens), your favorite shelter mag or furniture store.
• Enlist help from family and friends. There may be experts in your midst who would love to share their knowledge about your project. Do you admire your neighbor's garden? Ask how it got that way.
• Take a class at your local home improvement center or community college. Maybe you really can do it yourself!
• Solicit referrals. The people who are passionate about your plans (see above) probably know other folks who can help you.
• Check out professional organizations and Angie's List for pre-approved trades people.
• Take notes. Get a small notebook or use your smart phone to jot down all of your project particulars: room sizes, paint colors, sub-contractors' contact info, etc. You'll need it.
• Last but not least, check with your local government to determine whether or not a permit or licensed professional is required before starting any major work in or around your house.

Happy new year!