Three Lessons I’ve Learned as a Transition Specialist
During my time as a transition specialist, I’ve learned countless lessons—many of which I now apply to my life as I prepare for my own next chapter. Whether you're moving across town or across the country, these are the three most important lessons I encourage everyone to consider:
Keep What Serves the Chapter You’re In
Letting go can be difficult, especially when something once brought you purpose or joy. Maybe you used to love cooking, sewing, biking, or woodworking—but now, your meals are provided, or your time and energy are going elsewhere. And that’s okay.
Moving on doesn’t mean forgetting who you were. It means honoring where you are now. Letting go of items tied to past versions of yourself makes space—physically and emotionally—for the joys of your present chapter.
2. Storage Is Only a Temporary Solution
On many jobs, I see families send box after box to off-site storage units. I often hear things like, “We’ll go through it when we get a chance,” or “It’s been in our family for decades—I just can’t let it go.” I completely understand the sentiment. Letting go is hard. But the truth is, storage should be a short-term solution, not a final destination.
Most of the time, those items sit untouched for years, only to be revisited when it’s time to clean out the unit—usually by the next generation. As you prepare for a move, try to bring only what you truly need into your new space. If something stays in storage long-term, ask yourself if it might serve someone else better.
3. Items Only Hold the Meaning You Give Them
Collections can bring a lot of joy. There’s a thrill in hunting for that last figurine, dish, or card to complete a set. But once the collection is finished, it’s often hard to let go—especially if your new space doesn’t have room to display it.
Many collectors hope their children or relatives will treasure these items the same way they did. Typically, the thrill of collecting the items—your memories, your journey—doesn’t transfer with the objects. It is a good idea to see if your family and friends are interested in the things you no longer want, however try to be understanding if they don’t have room for, or interest in, the items you are offering.
written by Lily Stuart, Transition Specialist-Smart Moves