A new home or a change of address can be an emotional rollercoaster regardless of the reason behind the move. Whether you are managing it on your own or hiring movers to manage it for you, most people agree that moving can be a stressful time.
However, there are several ways you can minimise the stress. If you embrace the process and think of it as a rewarding, positive thing and a chance to start over, you can enjoy the experience.
Don’t Rush into it!
You must give yourself time. A rushed move adds to stress. A move is a big change and it is perfectly all right not to be okay with it instantly. Accept it, internalize it, and then plan it. Though these things are not always in our control, and sometimes you have to move at a very short notice, if you have the luxury, you should start your planning 8 to 12 weeks before moving day. Give it some necessary time so that you can do it calmly. As a moving professional, we have seen too many people getting frustrated because they rush the moving. They end up in unsatisfaction and unfortunately, we bear the loss. You know what I mean.
Lists are your friend!
Make lists for everything. Lists are essential to help you stay organized during the move. List all the tasks that need to be done by week. Make lists to prioritize packing, and make sure you maintain a master list that categorizes which of your things are packed in which boxes. Lists help you stay on track and it is especially satisfying to check things off your lists. It also helps you get a visual of how much you have done which will keep stress low.
Declutter!
Be brutal when it comes to getting rid of clutter. Moving is the perfect time to get rid of the useless odds and ends that tend to collect in nooks and crannies over the years. Do not pack anything that you will be getting rid of when you unpack. Cutting clutter out of your belongings will help you feel more organized.
Don’t be shy to ask for help!
Asking for assistance may be difficult, but no one can help mitigate stress better than some company while you pack. Host a packing party and have close friends and family come help you. You can “pay” them with some beer and take-away. Packing parties are a great opportunity to spend some more time with loved ones before you leave as well as to get things checked off your list quicker.
Make some Me-time!
Remember to take time for yourself. Moving is hard work and it often feels like that with everything you have to get done, you don’t have time for yourself. Do not neglect your own needs and health. Don’t skip meals to save time and don’t fill up on junk food. Junk food triggers cravings and mood swings, which adds to stress. You must ensure that you get enough sleep each night. It is also a good idea to treat yourself every time you accomplish a landmark on your lists. Don’t think of it as wasting time that could have been used packing, think of it as taking care of your most precious asset- yourself.
Allow for some wiggle room!
Even the best laid plans can sometimes hit a bump. Don’t fret! Have a back-up plan and allocate a few extra days for any such snags on your planning list. Then just go with the flow. If something disrupts your schedule, stay calm, be flexible and adjust to the situation. Tweak the timeline, and accept the delays. Breathe. You will get through this.
And once that change of address becomes a reality and the movers drop off your stuff, relax. Don’t try to whip the house into shape overnight. Give yourself time to get used to the space and accept that it will take some time to start feeling like home.
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