15 Reasons You'll Love Downsizing

Wondering if you should downsize?

Remember this: You don’t own stuff, stuff owns you. Here are 15 reasons you’ll be happy living a streamlined life.

1. Your closets will be more organized. With less to store, you’ll have more space to keep things in order.

2. Cleaning house will be a breeze. It’s easier to clean a room with minimal furniture and knick-knacks.

3. You won’t misplace items as often. You’ll have a place for everything and keep everything in its place.

4. You feel more relaxed. Clutter is a constant reminder of work that needs to be done.

5. You’ll re-think buying habits. Shopping will no longer be a form of entertainment.

6. You’ll live neater. You won’t be saying “Excuse the mess” to unexpected guests.

7. Rooms will gain visual square footage. With less stuff, even small rooms will appear more spacious and take on a light, airy feel.

8. You can change décor in a snap. A couple of new throw pillows, a new rug or a bold art print will provide an instant facelift.

9. You’ll gain tax deductions. Donate unwanted items to charity and get a tax break from Uncle Sam.

10. You’ll spread the wealth! Give heirlooms to family members now and witness their pleasure firsthand.

11. You’ll earn some cash. Bring in some fun money by selling unwanted items at garage sales, on Ebay or on craiglist.

12. You’ll be content with less. Your streamlined lifestyle will forever spare you the angst of “keeping up with the Joneses.”

13. Your creativity will blossom. Having too much stuff inhibits a creative mind. Artists need a blank canvas; chefs, a clean kitchen; and writers, a blank page.

14. You’ll increase social interaction and family bonding. Cozy quarters and having only one—or no—TV encourage family conversation and game nights.

15. You’ll pass along the value of simple living to your kids. Your kids won’t buy into the myth that “more stuff equals more happiness.”