Relocation

Moving is stressful. Period. Even if the move is desired and you know it's the best thing for everyone, it can be stressful. Anxiety, overwhelm, exhaustion, chaos, and an overall sense of daunting are normal for major changes in location. From the physical toll of packing and moving boxes to the mental fatigue of running out of tape and (oh, no! we need even more boxes), on top of the overall pressure of deadlines can make anyone’s head swim in a storm of confusion and a need for grounding and goal-setting.

When a move is prompted by something that was unexpected, such as a landlord deciding to sell the property, a job transfer, or needing to take care of loved ones, the stress can be even more intense. Sadness from having to say goodbye, a sense of overwhelm, and making so many decisions have a way of keeping us up at night and putting us in a place of decision-fatigue or even mental and emotional paralysis.

No matter the situation, do what you can to have a few minutes of quiet time and self-care. Just three or four deep breathing exercises can help a great deal. Perhaps make a nice cup of tea, a small snack, or rub a favorite scented lotion on your hands and feet. Stand outside for a few minutes to soak up some sun or splash cold water on your face.

It's also important to keep communication open with partners, children, family and friends, and even pets. Yes, pets. Everyone will respond differently to a move and setting aside some time perhaps during a meal or after a favorite TV show can offer time to share concerns, fears, and possibilities.

Every decision has an answer and it's ok to ask for help. Is there a friend who can help packing up the kitchen? Someone willing to make a trip to the Good Will or help sell items online for some extra cash?

If you'd like help organizing, try a few of these ideas:

1. Make a list each evening describing the top three things that need to be done the following day. It could be making calls to the power company, filling our change-of-address forms, looking for a new place. Set aside a specific time when the house is more quiet or arrange to call from a friend's house or space that is quieter when you can focus. It helps to take a notebook to jot down things you may forget, such as dates and other specific details that can get lost in our memories during times of major change.

2. Consider a budget for to-hirer movers. As someone who has moved many times, and only hired movers once, I can verify it's absolutely worth it! Friend and family often mean well when they offer help, but they have busy lives as well and it may not work out for them to assist you on the day(s) you need it most.

3. Make a list of the top priorities to keep. Any antiques, collectables, or memory items such as photos, wall hangings, and such should be packed safely and kept in a space where they will not be at risk of damage. It's best to do this early as towards the end, the fatigue will likely set in and even the most important things can get brushed aside under the stress of filling up the truck/trailer and getting things going.

I hope this helps! Hang in there and know that all will be well with the right plan for you and your loved ones, human, furry, feathered, or otherwise.