Facing the Stairs: A Real Talk About Aging, Evolving, and Downsizing

Is it just me, or is time moving faster than ever? Some days I wake up and wonder how I got here so quickly — knees popping, hips barking, and stairs that suddenly feel like they’ve doubled in height. Going up and down them used to be nothing, and now they feel like a full workout. And when I look around at all the stairs in and outside the house, a little voice inside asks, “How much longer can I keep this up?”

Then comes the bigger thought — the one many of us try to avoid: downsizing.

It’s overwhelming to think about sorting years (sometimes decades) of belongings, memories, and “I might use that again someday” items. Every room seems like a project. Every drawer holds a story. It’s no wonder the idea feels heavy.

But here’s the good news: you don’t have to do it all at once. You have time.

Start Small: One Drawer, One Room, One Step at a Time

The secret to downsizing without drowning in the stress is to start tiny. One drawer. One closet. One box. No one decides to move to a smaller home and magically sorts their entire life in a weekend.

As you go through things, ask yourself:

• Will I truly use this again?

• When was the last time I reached for it?

• Does it fit the life I’m living now — or the one I used to have?

  
  

We evolve through different stages of life, and each phase comes with its own hobbies, habits, and passions. And that’s okay. Letting go doesn’t mean forgetting who we were — it means making space for who we’re becoming.

I used to do karate and boxing. I loved it. I even had a punching bag hanging in my basement. But eventually, that season passed. And letting go of that punching bag wasn’t sad — it was freeing. It’s healthy to evolve.

Think Multipurpose

If you’re staying put for now but planning ahead, start looking at your home with fresh eyes. Are there pieces of furniture that can serve multiple purposes? Can you simplify the layout? Small changes today can make future transitions easier and less stressful.

Make Downsizing an Experience — Not a Chore

Downsizing doesn’t have to feel like a burden. Invite a friend or family member to help. Turn on some music, share some stories, laugh at some of the things you uncover, and celebrate the memories. Add snacks, maybe a drink or two, and make it a fun, meaningful experience.

This isn’t just about getting rid of things — it’s about creating a home that supports the life you want moving forward.