A Simple Life Abroad: Downsizing for Success

Ditch the Excess

Drowning in a sea of stuff? Dream of starting fresh in a new country but can’t figure out what to do with all your possessions? Or where to start? Today, we’re going to turn your clutter into clarity… with timeless wisdom and practical tips for downsizing your life. Stick with me and discover the real secret to a simpler life abroad!

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Prepare to be and Expat: Downsizing Before You Move

First things first… why downsize?

Moving abroad is a perfect opportunity to reassess what’s truly important in your life. Downsizing reduces stress, saves money, and helps you embrace a simpler, more intentional way of living. Remember, it’s not about losing things, but gaining freedom and clarity.

Look around your home.

What do you actually use daily? What brings you joy and what just takes up space? Set clear goals for your downsizing journey. Visualize your new life abroad and think about what you really need to bring along.

Practical Tips for Downsizing

1. Start Early: Begin the downsizing process at least three to six months before your move. This gives you ample time to sort through your belongings without feeling rushed.
2. Set a Schedule: Dedicate specific days and times each week to tackle different areas of your home. Breaking it down into smaller tasks makes it more manageable.
3. Use the Four-Box Method: As you sort through each item, decide whether to Keep, Sell, Donate, or Trash. This method helps you make decisions quickly and efficiently.
4. Digitize Documents: Scan important papers and store them securely online. Keep physical copies of only the most essential documents.
5. Consider Size and Space: Think about the size of your new home abroad. Will your current furniture fit? Measure and plan accordingly to avoid bringing items that won’t work in your new space.

The Philosophy of Downsizing

Two great thought schools, Minimalism and Stoicism, encourage living simply. But contrary to modern understanding, minimalism isn’t just about having fewer things; it’s about making room for what truly matters. By focusing on what you need and love, you create a living environment that supports your well-being.

The Stoic philosophy on the other hand teaches us to focus on what we can control and let go of the rest. This is especially helpful during the downsizing process. Ask yourself, ‘Do I really need this? Does it add value to my life?’ If the answer is no, let it go.

Roman philosopher and famous Stoic Marcus Aurelius once said, “The more we value things outside our control, the less control we have.” Embrace this mindset to find freedom and clarity in your life. Practice gratitude for what you have and the experiences ahead.

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Already an Expat? Downsizing Once You’re Abroad

Once you’ve downsized to move abroad, it’s essential to maintain your minimalist approach in your new home. Maybe you didn’t properly prepare or downsize before moving abroad and are left to downsize once abroad. Either way— once you are living abroad, the trick is to choose quality over quantity.

Practical Tips for Maintaining a Simpler Existence

1. Set Clear Boundaries: Define what minimalism means to you in your new context. This can vary depending on your new lifestyle and the size of your living space.
2. Regular Decluttering: Schedule periodic decluttering sessions. Even after your initial downsizing, it’s important to regularly reassess your belongings and remove what no longer serves you.
3. Mindful Shopping: Avoid impulse buys by practicing mindful shopping. Before purchasing anything, ask yourself if it’s necessary and if it will add value to your life.
4. Multi-Functional Items: Invest in items that serve multiple purposes. For example, a sofa bed or a foldable dining table can save space and add versatility to your home.
5. Digital Over Physical: Whenever possible, opt for digital versions of books, movies, and documents. This helps reduce physical clutter and makes it easier to move in the future.

The Philosophy of Maintenance

Living minimally abroad requires you to embrace principles that may not have entered into your life prior to making such a bold move. Minimalism & Stoicism are just two of many—and both emphasize focusing on what you can control and finding contentment within yourself rather than external possessions.

Seneca, a Stoic philosopher, said, “It is not the man who has too little, but the man who craves more, that is poor.” Reflect on this as you settle into your new home. Appreciate what you have and the simplicity of your new life.

Practice daily gratitude. Acknowledge the freedom and peace that come with having fewer possessions. This mindset can fuel success and free you to focus on enjoying your new home.

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Sentimental and Personality Blocks to Downsizing:

For those of us who find it especially challenging to part with items, whether due to sentimental value or a tendency to hoard, downsizing can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry… I’ve got some special tips just for you.

Handling Sentimental Items

1. Digitize Memories: Take photos of sentimental items like old letters, cards, or children’s artwork. Create digital photo albums or memory books to preserve these memories without taking up physical space.
2. Create a Memory Box: Select a small, sturdy box for your most treasured items. Limit yourself to this box, which forces you to prioritize the most meaningful keepsakes.
3. Gifting to Loved Ones: Pass on cherished items to family or friends who will appreciate them. This way, you know these items will be valued and cared for.

Practical Considerations

1. Climate Impact: If you’re moving to a tropical or humid environment, be aware that items like photographs, books, and certain fabrics can deteriorate quickly. Consider digitizing photos and documents to preserve them.
2. Shipping Concerns: Delicate items, such as antiques or heirlooms, may not survive a long sea journey. Think carefully about whether these items are worth the risk and cost of shipping. In some cases, it might be better to sell them and use the funds to buy new items abroad.
3. Insurance: For valuable items you decide to keep, ensure they are properly insured for transport. This provides peace of mind in case anything happens during the move.

Overcoming Hoarding Tendencies

1. Start Small: Begin with one small area, like a drawer or a shelf and celebrate each small victory to build momentum.
2. Seek Support: Sometimes, having a friend or family member to help can make a huge difference as they can offer perspective and encouragement when it feels difficult to let go.
3. Professional Help: Consider hiring a professional organizer or therapist who specializes in hoarding behaviors. They can provide structured guidance and support.
4. Set Clear Limits: Define how much space you’re willing to allocate to certain items. For example, limit books to one bookshelf or clothes to one closet. Stick to these limits to prevent clutter from accumulating again.
5. Focus on the Future: Keep your new life abroad in mind by visualizing the freedom and clarity you’ll gain from living with less. Let this vision spur you to make tough decisions.

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Final Thoughts on Downsizing

Scaling down your life to move abroad is a liberating experience— and it helps both your MIND and your POCKETBOOK not to be weighed down. By embracing a few minimalist and Stoic principles, or using a similar technique, you can make the move abroad smoother and more satisfying. Remember, it’s not about what you leave behind, but what you gain—freedom, clarity, and a fresh start.

For helpful tips on the holistic aspects of living abroad, visit Aoife’s Expat Cafe on YouTube. Until we next spill tea, keep your coffee strong, but your expat game stronger!