Whether it's to save money or simply because you want to simplify your life, you're moving into a smaller space. Moving from a larger home to a smaller one presents some unique challenges, and can lead to stress and clutter if not tackled in a proactive manner. Luckily, there are things you can do to make the most of your move into a smaller space, allowing you to live a more streamlined lifestyle. Here are six tips for doing just that:

Be Ruthless When Decluttering

This is not the time to hang onto objects that you no longer use regularly or love. As early as possible before your move, begin evaluating all of your belongings with a critical eye, and set aside the things you don't wish to bring with you. Duplicate items, broken household objects, bulky and outdated furniture, clothes that don't fit or aren't in style- now is the time to say goodbye to all of these.

Throw a Big Yard Sale

A yard sale is an efficient way to get rid of a bunch of stuff at once while also raising some cash for your move. To make the most of your yard sale, be sure to clean and repair items if possible, and price them appropriately (this yard sale pricing guide will help).

Advertise your sale online and by placing posters around your neighborhood. Make sure to stop by the bank for change (plenty of small bills and coins) and enlist the help of a friend or two so that the yard sale isn't left unattended when you need to run inside to use the restroom or grab a snack.

Rent a Self-Storage Unit

So, you've gotten rid of everything you possibly can, but you still have too much stuff to comfortably fit in your new smaller home. An affordable self-storage unit is a great solution. Here you can store things you don't need at the moment but also don't want to get rid of.

Off-season clothes, boxes of old letters and other sentimental items, and camping gear are great candidates for self-storage. They can all be neatly stashed away waiting for you when you want them, without taking up precious space in your home.

Make Use of Storage Containers

These days storage containers come in a variety of materials and designs, allowing you to use them as part of your décor instead of hiding them away in closets. Baskets can house everything from towels to kids' toys to scarves and accessories in an uncluttered way. Document boxes and brightly colored file cabinets can keep your papers neatly out of sight.

Look for Multi-purpose Furniture

When moving into a smaller space, it's a good idea to get rid of excess furniture; instead, focus on pieces that can serve multiple functions. An attractive wooden trunk can double as both storage and a coffee table. A low dresser can house your computer, allowing it to do double duty as a desk. A convertible sleeper couch means your living room can work as an impromptu guest room if you have out-of-town guests.

Embrace the "Six Month Rule"

Once you move into your new place, keep potential clutter under control by utilizing the "six month rule." Twice a year, go through your clothes, kitchen stuff, etc., and ask yourself if you've used the item in the past six months. If you haven't, it's probably a good idea to sell or donate it instead of allowing it to take up space.

By following these steps, you will soon be living in a decluttered, calm, and simplified way in your small space.