Moving is overwhelming as it is. And if you’re moving from a bigger space to a smaller abode, you have an additional layer of decisions: what to do with all of your stuff. Downsizing can feel liberating, and it absolutely should. When you trim the excess from your life—even if that means temporarily keeping some of it in a storage unit—you make room for new ideas and possibilities. Here are seven powerful life lessons you can learn from downsizing.

1. More stuff doesn’t always equal more happiness.

Ah, the age-old misconception that more stuff equals more happiness. Turns out, it’s quite the opposite. As you start figuring out what to toss, keep, sell, or donate, you’ll inevitably move clutter out. As you bid farewell to these boxes of junk, you’ll find a newfound sense of joy in simplicity. No longer do you have to be weighed down by possessions, and it gives you an opportunity to start fresh.

2. Quality over quantity matters.

Downsizing has a unique ability to help you reassess your relationship with possessions. If you’re a shameless collector of things, you might discover that you become more intentional and mindful with your purchases.

3. Simplifying your space can help clear your mind.

By decluttering your surroundings, it might give you a newfound sense of mental clarity. With less visual noise competing for my attention, you can focus better, think clearer, and ultimately, live more intentionally. Downsizing isn’t just about minimizing physical possessions; it’s about the mental refresh, too.

4. Letting go is liberating.

Letting go is truly an art, and with that can come several waves of emotions. You’ll uncover items you might not have seen in a while and relive. If you hold onto stuff because of the memories attached to it, this can be really difficult. But, just because you’re getting rid of things, it doesn’t erase the feelings associated with it. Give yourself the chance to go through all of the emotions as you clear out, and if it’s something you truly can’t see yourself parting with, you can get creative on how to make it work in your new space, or get a storage unit and look forward to seeing it again.

5. You’ll focus on experiences, not things.

In a world obsessed with material possessions, downsizing can serve as a reminder of the importance of experiences over things. Instead of filling your life with more stuff, maybe you’ll be inspired to invest in experiences that enrich your soul. From travel adventures to meaningful conversations, memories last a lifetime, while possessions can fade away.

6. You’ll embrace flexibility and adaptability.

Downsizing requires a mindset shift toward flexibility and adaptability. As you navigate through the process, you can learn to embrace change with open arms. By letting go of the need for control, discover the beauty in going with the flow and adapting to whatever life throws your way.

7. You can spread joy through giving.

Having boxes of stuff that you give away has a profound meaning, and you might discover a renewed joy in giving back to others. The clothes that no longer speak to your personal style might make someone else feel beautiful. Decor you no longer care for can give another home a new life. Plus, by donating, you know your items aren’t going straight to a landfill, so that’s a plus one for you and the planet!