Anyone that has worked with me on selling a home is used to this phrase "You Gotta Pack It Anyways" when we are doing pre-marketing considerations.
Most people have heard of Marie Kondo and her method of decluttering. But, have any of you heard of “döstädning”? Swedish Death Cleaning? It is a philosophy that encourages reflection and mindfulness about our belongings and the legacy we leave behind.
I've had to sell a home after my moms passing. Fortunately she had already completely done a döstädning when she moved into an assisted living facility a few years earlier. But, she had actually started years before that!
My siblings and I, as well as our children, are lucky that none of us ... mums included ... would be considered among the people that like 'things'. A lot of things, as some people do. Our family is defintely more along the lines of minimalism.
But, let's say you are getting up there in years. You know, starting to get those senior citizen discounts? Now's about the time you really need to consider the process of clearing out the things, the clutter, the items that won't be sentimental to your heirs.
"In a culture that often celebrates accumulation, Swedish Death Cleaning champions minimalism. It’s not about ruthlessly discarding material things but rather about curating a collection of items that truly enrich one’s life."
"Beyond physical belongings, Swedish Death Cleaning also entails organizing important information for your loved ones. This includes not only financial documents and passwords but also personal reflections and wishes." Mike & I really need to do this! "Consider creating a digital or physical legacy box containing these vital details, ensuring that your loved ones have access to them when needed. Reflecting on one’s life and documenting personal stories can also be a therapeutic process, allowing for introspection and closure." My mom left us a journal of her final years.
And, if you're realizing that maybe this is something you should consider starting now and continuing regularly, here is a Sweedist Death Cleaning checklist for you:
*Start with sentimental items, gradually expanding to include less emotionally charged belongings.
*Curate a collection of items that truly enrich your life and align with your values.
*Organize important documents and information for your loved ones.
*Cultivate habits of minimalism and intentional living.
*Regularly assess your belongings and declutter as needed.
*Consider the happiness and well-being of yourself and others when deciding what to keep.
*Share your belongings with others through donations, gifts, or meaningful gestures.
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