Step 1: Reconnaissance & Recruitment (The "What Were We Thinking?!" Step)

Operation: Dynamite Downsizing

Key Takeaway: Take an honest look at all the treasures you've gathered—it's the first step to creating the uncluttered space you deserve. In this step, you will review and tag your possessions. Fear not, brave crew! This isn’t just a move—it’s Operation: Dynamite Downsizing, and we’ve got the game plan to help you come out smiling, still talking to each other, and with a storage unit that’s more like a well-organized treasure chest than a chaotic black hole.

Goal: Honestly assess your mountain of possessions.

Materials Needed:

• Two (2) Comically Large Coffees/Teas: Fuel is paramount.
• One (1) Clipboard of Authority (Optional, but highly recommended for one partner to hang on to): Adds a delightful touch of mock seriousness.
• Sticky Notes in Aggressively Bright Colors: For labeling (and passive-aggressive commentary).
• Your Favorite "Get Pumped" Playlist: Eye of the Tiger, anyone?

Action Plan:

• The Walk-Through of "Wow, We Own a Lot of [Insert Noun Here]": Get a mental summary of all that you have to go through to see the big picture. So, don’t let it overwhelm you; we are going to break it down into bite-sized pieces.
• Wander through each room. Focus on what is in the room, and let your eyes take a quick glance at every item.
• Open every cupboard, every drawer. Yes, every drawer. There is always something hiding behind and under important stuff. Keep your coffee close by. Don’t accidentally leave it in the cabinet.
• Marvel at the sheer volume. It is okay to realize that you have more stuff than what you thought you had. We have all been there! You are not alone.
• Take a dramatic, unified gasp. Then a deep breath, and another sip from the large coffee/tea.
• Tag Team Tagging: Slap those sticky notes on EVERYTHING. Each item should have a sticky note with either: "Keep”, "Donate”, "Storage”, "Recycle”, or the dreaded "Trash". NOTE: If you can’t decide, put it in a “storage” pile.

Pro-Tip: If the whole house is overwhelming for one time period, you can go through the 5 steps for each room until you have finished, or take several days for the entire home. If a debate lasts longer than five minutes, the item goes into the "Storage Pile." Revisit this pile after a snack break. Hunger is the enemy of downsizing.