While cleaning and caring for her family home last spring, Sharon K. realized that she didn’t feel as joyful as she had in years past. As she moved from room to room, the thought came over her that much of this space was now unused. Why was she spending time cleaning rooms that were dormant and unoccupied? It was at that moment that she made a decision that surprised even her – it was time to downsize.
Downsizing can evoke diverse emotions, from reluctance and fear to excited anticipation. Once Sharon spent a little time considering how downsizing could be a positive move, she was on her way.
She started with her possessions. Some things needed to be disposed of, but many were donated to a local charity. Unworn clothing, kitchen goods, tools, books, and furniture found new homes. Once she made the final trip with her stuff, she began to see the benefits of a “less is more” lifestyle. She would have less to keep track of, to clean, and to be responsible for. And having less meant she could look for a smaller home.
It didn’t take long for Sharon to locate a house that matched her new way of life. She was excited to set up a new home, but even more so when she realized the advantages of smaller living. The most obvious perk was the reduction in monthly expenses: smaller payments, lower taxes, and cheaper utilities.
Plus, much less of her time was needed for upkeep. Sharon was able to enjoy new activities and renew her interest in old ones. She could even accept spontaneous invitations from her husband and friends for road trips, something she had looked forward to for years.
If you ask her, Sharon will tell you it was difficult to part with her large house and some of her treasures. But she feels this was the best move she could have made. She is having the time of her life because it is easy to live with less stuff.
This is just one story of how less can become more--more meaningful and experiential. Check the Marker Funeral Homes blog in the future for other articles and updates, and contact us with your story ideas.
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