Not sure how to give away your belongings as you age? Here’s a three-step process to take it all with you.
Want for nothing
My family wants none of my possessions when my life is done, and I’m not upset one bit.
Each person has their own style and doesn’t prefer the antiques with carved legs that I adore, furniture made solidly at a time when crafting was an art.
I understand and respect their choice. Because of that, I’m exercising care to enjoy all I have and be frugal with purchases from this date forward. Here’s my plan.
A three-step process to take it all with you
- I’m wearing everything. There will be no clothing, jewelry, or footwear in my closet with tags that represent purchase without ever being worn.
- I’m sitting on everything. Every chair, stool, couch, and horizontal surface will have supported my body numerous times.
- I’m touching everything. All of my possessions will show wear. At the end, it will be tattered, frayed, and worn down to the nub.
This goal didn’t just begin, but it has been magnified since reading several articles about how young people want their own style choices and not hand-me-downs from family members.
Choose your preference
I recall my family claiming treasured items that were owned by deceased loved ones, and I’m sure that practice still occurs within families today without media reports about the transition.
Instead, published articles such as this one (video included) focuses on legacy’s climate change and how young people prefer particle board furniture rather than what we more-mature individuals consider as goods made with quality workmanship.
Some of the comments beneath the articles are insightful, explaining that younger generations live in smaller dwellings that do not accommodate the home furnishings once coveted as “must haves.” That’s a valid point to consider when your lifestyle is much different than theirs.
Enjoy the goods
Like you, I’m grateful for my possessions, some of which are showcased on my dream wall. Nothing I own is taken for granted. Spending has decreased because I have all that I want unless something unexpectedly breaks or wears down so much that it needs replacement, and in most cases, the replacement will be a well-taken-care-of, second-hand item.
I’m not saying I don’t deserve brand new items. Washing machines, stoves, and refrigerators are in the new category. What’s new and what’s not is subjective, a decision you make based on your lifestyle. I know my preferences, and so do you.
Take a look around your home. What do you own that you appreciate but rarely find time to touch, access, or wear? Is this the time in your life to take inventory of your wonderful possessions to ensure that you enjoy each one right now?
At the end of my journey, everything I own will bear scars, holes, and other evidence of a well-lived life. What’s your plan?
Shirley,
I got a chuckle from reading this post because it echoes my feelings to a “t”.
Long ago when my kids were hitting their teenage years, they’d always rush to the door when I returned from shopping to see what I had for them. In those days I began to realize that it wasn’t all about them, so I always made it a point to get something for “me” each time. I also made it a point to immediately “wear” or “use” whatever I bought. I often joked to my husband that if I predeceased him, he’d have to buy his next wife all new stuff since mine would be worn out.
As the years have gone by, however, I’ve realized, like you, that my kids and even grandkids who are all grown up now, aren’t going to want the stuff I value. So, one day as I was admiring my teapot collection, it occurred to me that it would be smarter to give those pots away now to people and organizations who would appreciate them rather than leave them for my kids to toss. Besides, it would give me fewer things to dust. So, I gifted my teapots to a few people and a charity.
Wow! Your post resonated with me so much that looks I’ve written my own post here.
Hi Flora,
You’ve made wise and wonderful decisions about how to part with items now that you know will not be coveted by your family.
I’m glad you’ve shared your thoughts about this. In the articles I sight, young people gave their opinions. This is where we, the mature set, get our say!
Hello Shirley, your post resonated with me so much. I feel the same way…everything will be lovely used. And I try my best to share and send a few of my favorate things to others to enjoy as well. There’s something about giving/sharing that does the mind, body and soul good.
Hello Dee!
I wholeheartedly agree and am so glad the post was inspiring. I’m still on track to wear and use everything I own, and I’m enjoying every moment!
I love the thought of this. We don’t have any kids, so everything I buy is having “today” in mind. At the same time, I’ve reached the age where I’m looking at some of my things and thinking it’s time to give or throw them away. I don’t want to total minimalist life, but I’d like more things around me that I want and will use.
Hi Mitch,
I’m in agreement with you on buying for today while purging items that no longer fit my lifestyle. The minimalist is also not for me. I like stuff but don’t want to be clogged with stuff. We’re doing the right thing!