MISSION TRANSITION LLC
B.A.D.- We are Born, we Accumulate, we Deny.
Downsizing is not a human inclination, but it sure cleans things up before it's too late.
Mission:Transition LLC, Laurie Zook 301-332-5585
This article can not be reprinted in whole or in part without permission by the author.
DOWNSIZING: Keys to a Successful Transition:
"ACT-ON" STEPS TOWARD YOUR FUTURE!
1.R. B. D.- Relocation By Design: Design a Plan and an exit strategy... with your Realtor, Transitions Manager, Attorney, CPA; all the professionals you count on. Then “work it”....getting the right help is important at the start.
2. D.O.S.-Downsize, Organize and Strategize: The 1 year rule of thumb. Put a plan into action 1 year before listing your home, or before ( when you think of it, it’s time…)The amount of time and energy you dedicate to this depends on your other obligation, your health and energy level. However, If you do not take time to attend to this it will catch up with you, and you might find yourself in a time crisis.
Behaviors to Be Aware of:
Denial and Procrastination Creates Crisis. Bottom line, number one reason for life going sour.
Stop (Accumulating). Put the money you would normally spend on more 'stuff' aside in a separate bank account to purchase new things you want after your move.
Beware the Arm Chair Professional: The neighbor or other acquaintance offering advice in your time of stress. Maintain Perspective. A professional is tested in their craft and has to hold their own in a very competitive market. The neighbor does not. Ask for and call professional references.
3. L.B.Y.L.- Live by your List: Write it all down. At first, generalize, then get specific as you work your plan. Who (to give to) ,What ( to move or give), When( to do it all,) Where ( to move, etc. ) Why ( All the reasons) This is your business plan for your future. When in doubt, read it for affirmation.
4. H.O.H- Hire Objective Help. Family can be helpful, but is generally not objective nor empathetic enough to see you through the process without undue stress. Do not burden them with your stuff or your time crisis. Hire an experienced, professional Transitions manager/ downsizer who can work with you to assess your situation, develop a plan, contact the right professionals for you...such as auction houses, charities, etc.; go through your stuff with you, pack it up as you go, work with you to find the right moving company, manage the move itself, and get you set up afterwards AND sell your stuff. This is the person who sees you through the confusion and keeps you on target. Your right hand, and extra brain.
5. S.Y.S.- Sell Your Stuff: With the help of a professional, you can sell almost anything that you decide you do not want to relocate with you. Everything from furnishings, to tools to "throw aways"....With the money made, buy new furnishings for your new home, or go on vacation.
Keep it Simple: The old adage, but in times of big change, always the best policy. Move less, add later.
Live Happy, Live Well!
copyright Laurie Zook 2011
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