Moving Self-Care Tips: How to Keep Your Move Low Stress

Written By

Machaela Casey

How to Move Right: Manage Your Move and Yourself

When most people think about moving homes, they often focus on the positives. New opportunities, a larger residence, or a better commute can all make people anticipate moving. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement.

But, moving can be stressful. There’s so much to do. With any move, you have boxes to pack, a moving company to hire, and utilities to transfer. There’s no doubt that moving involves taking care of a lot of details.

And, don’t forget about the emotional challenges of moving. Changing jobs or moving away from family and friends can be stressful. Also, a new move can spark anxiety when thinking about an unknown future. These emotional factors, when combined with a lengthy to-do list, can make a move feel overwhelming.

Nelson Westerberg: Moving Experts

At Nelson Westerberg, we know all about moving people from one place to another, because we’re expert movers. We have helped families move into new homes and we’ve helped large companies move their businesses overseas. Each move is a time of transition and hope. We also recognize that moving can be a stressful time for many people.

To manage stress during the moving process, prioritize organization. Set a moving schedule (and stick to it). Hire experts to help you move. Having a schedule supported by professional movers will take care of the practical details. Finally, as you prepare to move, take time out each day to rest and relax.

The Right Move Mindset

Before you pack one box, put yourself in the right frame of mind to move. First, acknowledge that your move will be a big deal. Even if you’re moving a block away, expect that there will be some major disruptions to your life. Accepting that fact will help you to cope with some of the major changes that are coming.

Plan Ahead

Next, get organized early. The first thing to do is pick a moving date. Ideally, choose a date six weeks from when you want to be in your new home. Then, you’ll want to create a moving checklist, filled with everything that you’ll need to do before moving day, working backwards from your target date. When you set your own timetable, you will start to feel more in control of your big move.

Match Goals to Your Timeline

Next, list moving goals and priorities for each week. We suggest writing the goals out on a sheet of paper and securing it to your refrigerator with a magnet so that it’s easy to find. Having a timeline tied to goals will help you visualize what needs to get done when.

Cross items off of your list as you accomplish them. It will feel good to see your progression. Having an organized timeline will make the move itself seem simply the final step in a series of plans.

Partner with Professionals

The best thing you can do for any move is to hire a moving company. A big move requires expert knowledge, specialized equipment, and more. If you truly want to feel prepared for your move, trust the experts.

A full-service home moving company will provide the support that you need for your residential move. And, the best companies have skilled movers. Moving companies will know how to pack your fragile items and how to carry and load your heavy items, too.

Even if you’re determined to move yourself, we still suggest that you use some type of professional help for a DIY move. For example, you may be interested in the best truck rental. Or, you may have questions about moving and storage options. A moving company can help.

Choose Your Moving Company Wisely

Choosing the right moving partner will provide the service, support, and peace of mind that you need to rest easy.

Research at least three different moving companies before signing a contract. Inquire about what services they provide-like packing and unpacking or furniture shipping. Read reviews online. If you’re planning a move that crosses state lines, make sure the company you choose is properly licensed and insured. Doing this legwork will pay off in the end, when you have a smooth pickup, transportation, and delivery of your items.

Start Packing

Start packing your house at least four weeks before you move. First, gather all of the supplies that you will need: cardboard boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, and packing tape. You’ll need large boxes as well as boxes designed to hold certain items, like glassware.

In addition, you’ll need to know some packing basics, like how to pack clothes and how to pack fragile items. Research some general packing tips. Usually, when packing boxes, it’s best to pack heavier items on the bottom with lighter items on top. Insulate contents properly. Finally, always securely fasten each box, and label its contents on the outside.

Hire a Junk Removal Company

Once you start packing, you’re sure to find items that you no longer use. Sell anything that is valuable, and donate anything still in usable shape. When your packing is complete, you may have debris or other items that need to be thrown away.

In this case, ask your movers about junk removal services. It may be worth it to hire movers for this extra service. It could be cheaper than transporting items to your new address only to have to throw them away upon arrival.

Start Your Mornings Right

Planning a big move can feel like a whirlwind. It’s important to remain calm during the process. Set aside time each morning to get in the right mindset to conquer your daily goals. Start by getting up each morning when your alarm sounds. Don’t hit snooze. Studies show that snoozing your alarm may be a sign that you’re not getting enough rest and can eventually lead to health problems.

Once you’re up, begin your day with a quiet activity. Take a few minutes to meditate, go for a walk, or drink a cup of tea. These early morning moments will help set the tone for a calm start to your day.

Take (non-Digital) Breaks

Follow your schedule, but take time for breaks each day. And, don’t use your break time looking at your phone. It seems like every break we have nowadays we reach for our phones. But, it’s important to unplug in non-digital ways to maintain our mental health. Quiet activities are soothing and will provide the chance to recharge even when your day gets busy.

Scope Out Your New Neighborhood

To ease some of the anxiety of your upcoming move, get to know your new town a bit. Search for events and activities that will be happening shortly after your move in date. It will feel good to have something on the calendar to look forward to after your move in day.

Also, use social media to help you find online groups in your new neighborhood. Doing so will allow you the opportunity to meet new people even before you move in. Making some connections before you arrive will help make the move seem more exciting and a little less scary.

Ready for A Stress-Free Move? We Can Help

If you’re ready to reduce moving anxiety, give us a call. We’re moving professionals. We have the trucks and the equipment to move you right. In addition, our movers are ProMover-certified, meaning they are well trained in the best moving practices. Finally, we have all of the support services that you need to make your move as easy as possible.

With the right partner, your move can be a breeze. Contact us for a free quote, and get your stress-free move started today.