If you're experiencing the empty-nest syndrome or you have an older relative who is moving from a family home into a care facility, you'll need to look at downsizing the current household contents to determine what is needed and what will fit into the new home.

Whether you're doing this for yourself or someone else, downsizing is never easy. Most people tend to "downsize" each time they move, and we always dread the process, don't we? It's never easy to choose and it's even more difficult to give-up items that you've had for a long time.

So, where do you start?

Identify Where You'll Take Your Extra Things

Whether you're sorting through a parent's belongings after their death or just trying to pare down your own belongings, determining where to take everything is difficult.

Before you even decide what you need to give away, decide where it will go; relatives, friends, charities, or to an auction. Make a list, then as you go through the house start making piles.

Assess the New Home

Obtain a blueprint or layout of your new home; find out exactly the size of each room, then decide which large pieces of furniture can move with you. Knowing what will fit and what won't fit makes the decision a little easier.

Go Through Each Room and Ask Questions

First, start with the areas of your home that you don't use much, such as the attic, the basement, the laundry room or spare room. It's easier to get rid of belongings from rooms that are mostly used for storage.

Pack as you go. Gather packing supplies and slowly make your way through each room. Get items out of the house as soon as possible. It's so easy to change your mind or to start pulling items out of the pile.

As you go through each room, ask yourself some questions about each item:

When was the last time I used this?

If I do use it, how often and why? What purpose does it serve?

Do I own another item that can serve the same purpose as this one?

Is this item something I love? Does it have sentimental value that can't be replaced?

Can I get by without it? Would I have to replace it if I choose to get rid of it?

Is it in good shape? Will it last for a long time?

Does it need repair, and if so, how much will that cost and is it worth the price?

Do I know someone else who would benefit a lot more from its use?

Does it serve a purpose in this new life that I'm moving to?

Be Kind to Yourself or to the Relative That's Moving

Remember, moving isn't easy; it presents a significant change that's both physically exhausting and in most cases, emotionally overwhelming as well. Add to that the fact that you or a loved one is downsizing, moving from a beloved family home to a condo or retirement community. That's even a bigger change that touches an even deeper emotional trigger. So, remember these thoughts as you start this new stage in your life:

Be sensitive to yourself or to the relative that's moving.

Remind yourself that your goal is not to get rid of everything you hold dear, but to simplify your life.

Be patient and kind.

Be understanding if you or your loved one is upset.

Give yourself time to work through it. If you're tired, rest. Take a break. Go for a walk. Talk to someone.

Allow yourself to grieve the loss.

If you're having a difficult time, ask for help.

If you can't decide on an item, remember that it can go into storage until you're ready.

Allow yourself or your relative to remember. Belongings all contain memories, so take the time to reflect. It's an important step in possibly letting go.

Once you've managed to pack up your home, try to celebrate this new stage in your life. Call a friend. Go out for dinner and just be good to yourself. You deserve it.