We recently reached a milestone we’ve been working toward for months, and we’re so grateful. Today we’re sharing the full update, and we’re also diving into a question that keeps coming up: how can you tell if downsizing is right for you, and what if you end up regretting it? Fortunately, there are four practical ways to test smaller-space living before you commit, which makes the decision much less stressful. We also talk about what reality show you’d want to be on (or avoid) and how that can reveal personality traits. Plus, we share one moving tip that’s helping us pare down even more — and why we enjoy watching TV but don’t actually want to be on it.
You can also find this episode on popular podcast platforms.
What’s New
- We didn’t record the episode from our POD, but here’s a peek at the delivery. The device that lifted it off the truck earned the affectionate name “Pod-zilla,” which delighted Sherry, our resident product namer.
- The four steps to “test drive” smaller living come from The Little Book of Living Small by Laura Fenton. The framework was also featured in a lifestyle magazine and has proven useful for many people considering a downsize.
- Over the years we realized we’d unknowingly gone through all four steps ourselves before deciding to downsize. That slow progression helped us feel confident about pulling the ripcord when the time came.
- Test Drive Tip #1: Simplify gradually. Start by reducing and organizing over time rather than making sudden, sweeping changes. We’ve shared stories about this process in past podcast episodes that explore getting rid of excess toys and whether minimalism can still feel cozy.
- Test Drive Tip #2: Notice unused spaces. Pay attention to rooms you rarely use. In our case, the dining room became redundant because we always ate at the kitchen island. Over time, having two nearby eating areas felt unnecessary.
- Test Drive Tip #3: Learn from others. Talk with people who have already downsized. Hearing firsthand experiences — what worked, what didn’t, and practical tips for living with less — can clarify your expectations and reduce anxiety about making the transition.
- Test Drive Tip #4: Try small spaces while traveling. Rent compact vacation homes or small short-term rentals to test how comfortable you feel in less square footage. These trips can reveal whether you’ll miss certain conveniences or discover that a smaller footprint actually suits your lifestyle.
What Reality Show Would You Go On?
- We even applied to a competitive travel show years ago. The photo we used dates to when we’d just started dating; it turned into a funny memory rather than a casting call. Sherry, who hadn’t watched that particular show, joked that she’d likely be terrible at it — tune into the episode to hear more about why.
- We’ve also made playful videos and spoofs over the years that capture different bits of our personalities and humor. While we like watching those kinds of shows, being on TV isn’t something we particularly crave.
We’re Digging
- As we pack and sort, we gathered a large pile of framed photos in the office to evaluate them all at once. That mass evaluation helps you decide what truly matters before you pack and move items to a new home.
- We’ve been watching a documentary series about a major consumer fraud case that inspired a deep-dive episode years ago. It’s a good example of how true stories can uncover surprising human behavior and systems that enable wrongdoing.
Trailer available through streaming platforms and documentary sources.
If you want to revisit recommendations or topics we’ve covered in past episodes, we maintain a master list of subjects and resources discussed across our shows, plus a book list for our podcast book club. Those pages provide a handy reference when you want to explore a topic more deeply.
A special thank you to the sponsor that supported this episode. They offered a promotional discount earlier in the season; check with your preferred providers for current offers and deadlines.
Thanks for listening and following along. If you’re considering downsizing, try one of the four test-drive strategies we discussed: simplify slowly, notice unused spaces, learn from others, and test small-space living on trips. Those steps can help you decide with confidence.
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