On paper, moving to a new home doesn't sound all that difficult. You just need to pack all your stuff, transport it to a new place, and unpack it all there. However, those who have moved (even once) know it's not so simple in practice.
Some interruptions may crop up, making the packing process stretch longer than expected. Many discover that even on the last day, a cabinet or closet holding useful items has been left out. Sometimes, conflicts with loved ones also erupt as a result of the chaos.
A recent study confirms this because at least one in four Americans admitted to relationship distress during the move. Since you must relocate, it's important to deal with the stress that comes with the whole process. In this article, we will discuss four tips that will help ease the stress of moving.
Start Earlier Than You Think You Need To
Most people have the luxury of knowing about a move well in advance. If such is your case, double the time you think you need to get everything done. Many people discover to their surprise that the volume of stuff somehow multiplies once they start the packing process.
Plus, there may be some tough decisions, especially for those moving to an apartment in their new community. The change from an independent house to an apartment can be a massive one indeed.
Let's take the example of a city that's been rated a great place to live in: Rockville, Maryland. Not only is the quality of life excellent in this place, but also the city's services. Many move here for their jobs, as the city is also a hub for life science and biotech companies.
Many new residents usually rent an apartment in the area. Those with families or too much stuff can feel overwhelmed while trying to organize the packing, moving, and settling-in process. It's natural to overlook the details that make a huge difference.
That's where the professional support of Rockville apartment movers comes in. They can streamline the process from start to finish so that there is minimal disruption to you or your old/new neighbors.
It's a relief, especially for those relocating across the country. 495 Movers shares that long-distance moving is often the most stressful and complex. With expert help, not only does the stress ease, but things move a lot more smoothly.
Leave a Little ‘Sanctuary Area' Until the Last Minute
To some people, the most depressing aspect of moving can be slowly watching their former home turn into a dull property. In other words, bitter emotions are natural when we watch our home, once full of life, transform into a dead space.
A lot of people even describe it as a haunting feeling. This is why it is important to leave a small ‘sanctuary area' untouched until the last minute. Let this be attached to a certain activity that you enjoy daily.
Say, meditation is what brings you peace and keeps you grounded. Perhaps the items that facilitate a quiet meditation are your yoga mat and books. Then, let them sit outside until the last day of packing.
It's highly likely that once these things are packed up and transported, you may stop your meditative practices altogether. While they can be resumed at your new apartment, your stress levels in the present may increase.
Similarly, it's best to leave out the supplies for an enjoyable self-care activity until the last minute. Take the example of art: if you enjoy painting, keep a small part of your painting supplies handy for daily use. This will help you participate in your favorite activity until moving day, thereby easing the stress a little.
Cultivate Excitement for Your New Home
There are umpteen reasons for moving, be it to a new neighborhood or city altogether. A recent study discovered that the most common reason why Americans relocate is in search of better housing. The second most common reason is a new job or job transfer.
Vermont was the state with the highest percentage (61%) of moving in. On the other end of the spectrum was New Hampshire, which lost 34.3% of its residents last year. Regardless of the place or your reason for moving, cultivate an excitement for the new home.
It doesn't necessarily have to be something too extravagant. Sometimes, a simple ice cream shop in the vicinity can seem strangely exciting, and that's fine. It may help you pull through the initial days of discomfort.
You can also build up from there to be excited about the main reason why you're relocating. Suppose a new job is your main reason for moving. Think about the scope of growth in the new workplace as well as the opportunity to interact with colleagues and widen your friendship circle.
Happiness is a choice, not just an emotion. It's possible to cultivate it during times when it doesn't come naturally. So, will it till you make it!
Accept Stress As a Normal Part of the Process
Many people underestimate the toll that moving can have on one's psyche. Did you know that studies have found the stress of shifting homes to be at par with job loss and even divorce?
The stress factor only increases for those who undertake the move without proper planning or thought. Many are surprised at how stress kicked in suddenly despite a smooth start. This is precisely why you must treat stress as an anticipated visitor.
Be it before, during, or after, you will deal with stress and anxiety at some stage of the moving process. Don't be taken aback and mentally prepare yourself to deal with the stress when it knocks on your door.
Try to spend as much time with your friends and family as possible. Besides professional movers, accept help from your loved ones too. Maybe your uncle wants to help with logistical planning. Perhaps a neighbor wishes to bring you food until relocating day; let them offer their support.
Additionally, keep stress-relieving strategies handy such as calming music, mindfulness techniques, and the ‘sanctuary' we previously discussed. A major part of managing stress well includes refraining from lashing out. Choose not to let your emotions spill over, which could only make matters worse.
Once inside the new community, the stress doesn't end for many. After all, it's natural to feel like a fish out of water when you don't know anybody in the area.
Initially, that's how it will be, and you must take it easy. However, the uneasiness will only prolong if you don't step out into the community early on.
Push yourself to join a meetup group or go for a morning walk just to interact with the people in the neighborhood. Before long, you will begin to see the move for what it truly is, from one home to another.
