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How Downsizing to a Tiny Home Changed My Life for the Better
Finding a Luxurious and Affordable Home
When my marriage ended in 2018, I searched for a new home. However, the homes that I could afford were too small. That's when I discovered the tiny home trend and decided to build my own. I currently live in a 520-square-foot home that I built for $175,000. Despite the initial worry of downsizing, I now have the luxuries of a larger home at a lower cost.
Decluttering and Letting Go of Material Possessions
One of the biggest shifts in my life since downsizing was my relationship with my belongings. In my previous large home, I hoarded items for years "just in case." However, after purging my belongings, I felt a sense of relief that I couldn't even tell you what I donated. Since downsizing, I no longer compulsively buy items, and I only make purchases when I know where to put them.
Being More Thoughtful About Purchases
My downsizing made me more mindful of my purchases. I stopped buying items on a whim, and instead, I buy what I need locally, reducing the packaging and waste. I have also developed a new habit of waiting until I collect several items before making an Amazon order. This change helps me cut down on wasted space and trash.
Effortless Cleaning and Maintaining My Space
Living in a tiny home means less cleaning, and fewer items to organize and maintain. Cleaning the house now takes me less than an hour. I designed my kitchen to be the largest area, which allows me to comfortably entertain up to five guests. Hosting guests is now an enjoyable experience without endless hours of mopping and putting things in place.
Gratitude for the Important Things in Life
After downsizing, I have learned to appreciate the meaningful things in life: spending time with my kids, having space to meditate and breathe, and owning a unique home of my own. I have become less attached to material things and enjoy my freedom.
Jen Gressett is a freelance designer based in Colorado who lives in her own tiny home. She enjoys trail running, hiking, and training for races. You can find her on Instagram, where she shares her tiny house living experience.
In a world where cost of living is increasing, and minimalism is on the rise, the tiny home movement is more relevant than ever. Downsizing has the power to create a paradigm shift in the way we think about space, possessions, and the environment. It teaches us to be more mindful of our consumption and appreciation for the important things in life.
For entrepreneurs, the tiny home industry presents a lucrative opportunity. Entrepreneurs could offer affordable tiny homes with specialized designs that meet the needs of various demographics like families, students, or retirees. Builders of tiny homes could also collaborate with local architects to create models that fit the laws of the regions they intend to sell the homes.
Businesses could also focus on providing sustainable home solutions for homebuyers. From environmentally-friendly furnishings to off-grid technologies, there is room for innovation within the market. Collaborating with local home design experts, startups could offer tiered price points for a range of amenities and features.
In conclusion, the tiny home trend could offer entrepreneurs and businesses new opportunities to create unique home solutions that are stylish, affordable, and sustainable. With a focus on minimalism, sustainability, and appreciation for the important things in life, the tiny home trend is here to stay.