Right-Sizing Your Life: A Christian Woman’s Guide for Life's  Next Season

Introduction: A Season of Change and Choice

There are seasons to life, and as Christian women over 50, most of us stand at the crossroads of many life transitions. Do we move? Is it time to downsize? Or do we remain where we are and adapt? This is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It's about considering all of our options, getting strong Bible-based guidance and holding all of it up to the light of God's plan for our life, our health, and our calling in this next season.

 Let's talk about key considerations, practical steps, and biblical wisdom to make an informed, faith-filled decision as we walk with God in this process. I have recently navigated this process and while taking all of these steps sometimes feels labored, I have confidence in my decision and am excited about the future!

The Case for Downsizing

Downsizing can be a liberating for Christian women in midlife! It is a great opportunity to allow you to de-clutter your life, save money, and gain more freedom for family time, travel, or ministry. Here are some signs that it might be time to downsize:

Your home is too large – Rooms are empty or unused, and maintenance is tiring and overwhelming.

Financial adaptation – As your income changes property taxes, utilities, or maintenance fees are taking a toll on your finances.

Physical needs – Stairs, large backyards, or repairs are becoming daunting.

A desire for simplicity – Less stuff, less stress, and a renewed emphasis on what matters to you.

Steps to Thoughtful Downsizing

Pray for wisdom – Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to trust the Lord for wisdom.

Evaluate your space and needs – It can be hard to really know what you absolutely require in a living space. Luckily, there are some tools available to help guide you.

This is helpful for assessing emotional and practical preparedness:

AARP's Downsizing Decision Workbook

Provides organized questions on home care, lifestyle wants, money, and physical needs.

AARP Downsizing the Family Home

 Declutter on purpose – Get rid of or pass on what no longer benefits you. Donate things that are needed by others. Lightening our material load is a great way to enter this new season of midlife and beyond.

Seek alternative accommodations – Maybe a smaller home, condo, or active adult community is the answer. What about a tiny house – two tiny houses in different climates! Midlife is the time to be creative and consider some options that may not have been on the table before!

Plan for finances – Sit with a financial advisor to ensure the move is part of your retirement planning.

The Case for Relocating

For some, starting again is the secret to happiness and greater possibilities in this phase of life. That was my decision. .After 40 years in the desert I was looking for a change in climate and to be closer to some of my children.. Here are a few reasons to consider moving:

 Closer proximity to loved ones – Grandkids, adult children, old friends or older parents might appreciate your proximity.

Healthier climate – A temperate climate can boost health and happiness. I loved my life and time in Arizona but my soul longed for water and cooler weather.

Greater sense of community – A church-based retirement community or a community with a strong, active church can bring depth to your life. Some couples and singles may choose to move closer to ministry headquarters or volunteer opportunities.

Lower cost of living – Relocating to a lower-cost region can free up funds for other uses.

Steps to a Smooth Relocation

Research possible areas – Think about cost, healthcare access, and church congregations. My husband and I spent 6 years on this part of the decision making process!

Visit first – This may seem obvious but in our search we met many people who moved because they liked what they saw online. That may work for some but that is a pretty significant risk of many resources! Please have at least one hands-on visit before committing.

Research healthcare prior to committing. Chances are you will care about providers and facilities a lot more in the future. Make sure that everything that you want will be near by.

Rent before buying – This option may not be for everyone but it permits you to "try on" an area prior to committing.

Once you make the move get involved quickly – Find a new church, volunteer, and get plugged into routines to adjust more quickly. Even if you've got plenty to do with unpacking boxes and figuring out which day the trash gets picked up - start seeking out community!

The Case for Staying Put

Not everyone chooses to must move or downsize. Staying in your present home may be a great option if it still serves you well and is comfortable. You might have been right-sizing for years already! Stay for these reasons:

 Emotional attachment – Your home has deep memories and significance

A strong local support system – You have friends, church, and community connections that bring happiness.

Financial security – If your house is paid off and affordable, staying put might be the solution.

Modifications – Minor house changes that are affordable can make staying in place more practical.

Making Your Home Work

Simplify for a fresh start – Even if you choose to stay put, de-cluttering can be calming.

Make home changes – Add grab bars, replace lighting, or create a main-floor bedroom. If you are lucky enough to live a long life these will come in handy.

Hire help when needed – Yard maintenance, house cleaning, or grocery running can make late season living easier.

Remain socially active – Stay engaged. Avoid isolation by staying active in church and community activities.

Renting Out Space for Additional Income

Another option may be renting out some of your house or a portion of your land - such as an ADU or casita, for extra income. The extra income can be a relief while you get to remain in a space that is comfortable to you. But, as with almost all things, there are pros and cons:

Advantages:

Extra income – Allows you to cover bills, property taxes, or savings objectives.

Companionship – A roommate or tenant can keep social connections alive.

Maintenance help – A good tenant can assist with maintenance.

Disadvantages:

 Privacy issues – Sharing space may be challenging. Do you use the yard, the kitchen or the laundry at the same time?

Legal and financial arrangements – Rental contracts, insurance, and taxation must be carefully planned.

Rent – Rental income should be reported on your taxes.

Finding an ideal tenant – Background and compatibility checks are essential. If you go this route, who you know may be the way to find a reliable and safe tenant.

Steps to Renting Out Space

Check the law and regulations – Make sure it is legal to rent in your location.

Screen prospective tenants – Interview, background, and references.

Set clear expectations – Establish house rules, rent requirements, and duties.

Consider a trial period – Begin with a brief lease to test out compatibility.

Visit aarp.org to see their many resources on this topic.

Conclusion

Leave the Decision with the Lord

 Making big changes late in life is hard. But it can also be a time of new beginnings – new friends, new experiences, the start of new memories. The Lord has something in mind for each one of us – stay put, relocated, resize. Remember: prayer, wise counsel and the principles of the Scriptures will be the lamp guiding you where you need to go. But good decisions often take time. It may be the last quarter of your life but most likely it isn’t the last moment. Make your choices with as much information and counsel as you can. Once your decision is made – leave it with the Lord.

Matthew 6:26 (NIV)

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”