Support For Decluttering

Decluttering is hard. It’s emotionally, physically, and mentally exhausting. It also can take a ton of time. Sometimes these factors make it crucial to get some support with the process. Who do you turn to if you feel like you can’t handle working through the process alone?

Depending on the level of support you think you need, here are some ideas of outside help that can make the process a little easier to manage:

1. Family and/or Friends - Family and friends can be such a valuable support during the process, if they have the ability to be patient and understanding with you. You might need someone to sit with you and help you make decisions, an extra pair of hands for sorting or heavy lifting, or someone to listen when things get emotional.
2. Professional Organizers - A professional organizer can be a big help because their speciality is in clearing clutter and helping their clients only keep what they truly need. On top of that, they will help you organize what remains. This type of professional might not have an expertise specifically in downsizing, so they might not be able to help you determine value of items or connect you with the right professional to help get certain items to the finish line. A professional organizer might not be a final solution but they just might be exactly what you need.
3. Senior Move Managers - Senior Move Managers specialize in older adult moves. They can work collaboratively or independently. Older adults are their main demographic, so they have specific expertise geared towards decluttering and downsizing. 
4. Therapist or Life Coach - If motivation, emotion, or planning is what you’re struggling with, work with a Therapist or Life Coach to create a customized plan or set of therapeutic strategies to help you work through the things that are keeping you stuck and unable to manage the process.

Don’t be ashamed to find support where needed. Everyone’s process is different. The most important thing is to continue to make progress. It doesn’t matter how you achieve that.

For some suggested South Central Wisconsin professionals in categories 2-4 above, see the Jess Lex Homes Downsizing Directory.

Note: Some of these suggested resources will have an associated cost. Many people feel uncomfortable paying for assistance, especially if they feel like they should be able to work through this process without support or additional services. My stance on the associated costs is this: If you can afford to pay for some assistance and it will help you reach your goals more quickly, do not feel guilty spending the money. The weight that will be lifted off your shoulders when you make progress or reach your goals is worth every penny.