My Personal Downsizing Experience
As a professional organizer, I help clients clear the clutter, simplify their surroundings, and create organized spaces that work for their lifestyles. I guide them through the emotional process of letting go, deciding what stays, and finding the best ways to streamline their homes. But recently, I found myself on the other side of the equation—I was the one making these decisions as I prepared to sell my own home as part of a personal downsizing journey.
Even though I strive for a minimalistic approach, I was surprised by how many things I still had to go through. Bookshelves filled with titles I had enjoyed but wouldn’t read again. Decorative pieces that no longer held meaning. Items tucked away in storage that I hadn’t touched in years. I realized that, like my clients, I had held on to things for a variety of reasons—sentimental value, “just in case” thinking, or simply not making the time to assess what I truly needed.
I donated books to Second Life Books, an organization that picks up books from your home.
A Lesson in Letting Go
One of the biggest lessons I teach my clients is that decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of things—it’s about creating space for what truly matters. And as I went through my own belongings, I had to take my own advice. I asked myself the same questions I ask my clients:
✔ Do I use this?
✔ Do I love this?
✔ Would I buy this again today?
It’s amazing how these simple questions can bring clarity. The process was humbling. Even though I’m an expert at helping others make these decisions, I felt the same tug of hesitation when parting with certain items. But I also felt a sense of relief with every box that left my home.
Each item I chose to release made room for something more important—clarity, peace of mind, and space to breathe.
Passing It Forward
One of the most rewarding parts of this experience was knowing my items would have a second life elsewhere. I donated many books to a great organization, knowing that someone else would enjoy them as much as I did. As my oldest daughter moved into her own place, I was able to pass along household items she needed. And with my youngest preparing to move into her second-year university home, I set aside useful things for her and her roommates.
Decluttering didn’t feel like a loss—it felt like a gift.
And not just a gift to others, but to myself. Knowing that the things I once loved would now serve someone else gave me a renewed sense of purpose in letting go.
This is something I often encourage clients to think about. Your donations, hand-me-downs, or rehomed items can carry value beyond your walls. Sometimes, decluttering is an act of generosity—both to yourself and to others.
The Emotional Side of Downsizing
Even when you’re ready to move forward, sorting through years of belongings can bring up unexpected emotions. Some items were easy to let go of; others took more thought. There were moments of nostalgia, but also moments of clarity—realizing that holding onto things doesn’t preserve the memories, the experiences do.
I came across letters, photo albums, and keepsakes that pulled me back to earlier years. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, I gave myself permission to pause, reflect, and be grateful. Then, I asked: Do I need to keep this to keep the memory alive?
For anyone going through a similar process, know this: it’s okay to feel emotional. It’s okay to sit with those feelings. Downsizing isn’t just a physical shift—it’s a mental and emotional one too.
Photos and keepsakes can bring up unexpected emotions. Be kind to yourself…it’s ok to feel sentimental.
The Power of a Fresh Start
Now that my home is staged and ready, I can confidently say that going through this process was cathartic. It reminded me that even when we think we’ve simplified enough, there’s always room to reassess. Even as an organizer, I was reminded of the beauty of decluttering—it’s an ongoing journey, not a one-time event.
Decluttering makes space not just in your home, but in your head and heart. It gives you the freedom to move forward with clarity, to live in the now, and to design your space for who you are today—not who you were 10 or 15 years ago.
A tidy drawer may seem like a small thing, but for many of us juggling work, kids, aging parents, and a thousand other responsibilities, those small wins add up. They bring order to the chaos and make life feel more manageable.
My Advice for Anyone Getting Ready to Declutter or Downsize
Start small. Begin with a single drawer, shelf, or cabinet. Don’t try to do everything at once.
Be kind to yourself. Letting go can be tough, and it’s okay to feel sentimental.
Use categories. Sort by type (books, linens, kitchenware) to see what you have and where you can streamline.
Ask the right questions. “Do I love this?” is often more powerful than “Do I use this?”
Celebrate progress. Every box donated or bag recycled is a step toward a calmer, more intentional space.
You Deserve the Joy of an Organized Space
So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of letting go, know that you’re not alone. I’ve been there too. And if you need support, I’m always here to help.
Because the joy that comes with being organized is something I believe everyone deserves.
You can contact me here or via email at filomena@organizingcontessa.com to learn more about how I can support you on your journey. Whether it’s downsizing, decluttering, or just making life feel a little lighter—I’m here for it, and I’m here for you.
