Research shows that moving is one of life’s most stressful events. This can be compounded if the move is in conjunction with another stressful situation such as divorce or a job loss. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming.
Some simple steps can help lower the stress of moving however.
PLAN: Go online and locate a couple of moving planners. Good ones are available and chose or modify the one that best fits you and the time you have until your move. Get a notebook or three ring binder and put in all the key phone numbers, addresses, and appointments of people and companies who will be helping you. Include an envelope for receipts. Write some reflections about the task and how you feel. Having a plan will make you feel in control.
SCHEDULE: You can lower the stress of moving by scheduling the days you’ll be doing things early in the process: garage sale; taking unwanted goods to donate; helping each child pack their rooms; packing the garage, cellar and attic. Plan to delegate and tell others when they will be needed. Don’t be shy about asking friends and family to help: box, load, babysit, drive the kids, whatever they can do.
MAINTAIN: Preserve your ordinary routine as much as possible. Routines are an important way to lower the stress of moving. Routines make us feel assured and comfortable. Be sure to eat at regular times, rest if you need to and get adequate sleep. Rely on your planning rather than worrying. Take your vitamins!
LISTEN to your feelings: This is one of the key ways you lower the stress of moving. Even if your move is for happy reasons you’ll feel anxious. You are leaving the familiar. You may be leaving family or old friends. Reflect on this sense of loss. Examine the feelings of anxiety you’ll have about going to a place where you don’t know people, how to get around and find things you need. Tell yourself that these issues are simply inconveniences, not roadblocks. Remind yourself that you are a capable adult and that in a few short weeks your new home will seem normal!