11 Tips to Cope With the Stress of Moving

How can you make moving a little less stressful and more enjoyable? Believe it or not, there are things you can do to make this transition a positive experience. Here are 11 tips for making the best of moving to a new place.
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group of friends standing at the back of small moving truck, lifting up rear door, truck filled with moving boxes and furniture, urban environment
group of friends standing at the back of small moving truck, lifting up rear door, truck filled with moving boxes and furniture, urban environment

Moving can be an exciting time in your life. Or, it can be a negative, unwelcome event. In fact, moving is one of the top stressors in life, right along with death of a loved one, divorce, a major illness, and job loss. So, how can you make moving a little less stressful and more enjoyable? Believe it or not, there are things you can do to make this transition a positive experience. Here are 11 tips for making the best of moving to a new place:

1. Adopt the right mental attitude.

Maybe it was your choice to move, but maybe it wasn't. And if it wasn't, then the first thing you are going to have to do is adopt the right viewpoint. You can wallow in your unwelcome move, or you can try to make the best of it. Think of all the good things that can happen. You'll meet new people, have new experiences, and hopefully create a life that's even better than the one you're leaving behind.

2. Research the new area.

If you're moving a significant distance away, then you will need to do your research. People are always the most comfortable when they feel prepared, so do your research. For example, find the schools, the malls, the restaurants. See what events regularly happen in the area. Get a feel for where you will be setting your roots down.

3. Plan, plan, plan.

If you're a procrastinator, this tip is especially for you. Doing things at the last minute is always stressful, but when you have to move an entire household full of things -- and get your family ready -- well, you don't want to be doing this at the last minute. Start planning as far ahead as you can.

4. Hire professional movers.

No one really likes packing and lugging around furniture. So if your budget allows for it, hire a dependable moving company like Allied. When I have moved, I have done it both ways -- done it myself (along with friends and family members who helped out), and I have hired movers. Trust me, having movers do all the work took away so much of my stress, and it was definitely worth it.

5. Take care of your emotional needs.

If you are moving against your wishes, then you will probably be sad about leaving. It's normal! Usually, we think that grief is reserved for when people die or for events like divorce. But grief often accompanies a move. So don't be afraid experience your feelings. It will help you move to a happier emotional space faster than if you ignore them.

6. Rely on your support system for help.

You might feel overwhelmed with things that need to be done before, during, and after the move. So don't be afraid to ask for help! That's what friends and family are for. Yes, they are there for you in the good times, but they are also there for you during times of life transitions. So don't feel like you have to go it alone.

7. Make specific plans with your old friends to see them in the future.

It's always difficult to say goodbye. And when people move, they usually have very good intentions of staying in touch and visiting. But let's face it -- sometimes life gets in the way and you don't get around to making those plans. So put the get-togethers and reunions on your calendar before you leave. That way, you're more likely to follow through.

8. Introduce yourself to your new neighbors.

Even if this is out of your comfort zone, it is always helpful to know your neighbors. Whether you need to borrow a cup of sugar, have someone keep an eye on the house when you're traveling, or simply to make new friends, it is definitely worth it to go out of your way to get to know the people who live near you.

9. Seek out new experiences -- become a "joiner."

You'll want to make new friends, so don't be afraid to introduce yourself to new circles of people at work or school. Is your company starting a softball team? Join them! Does the PTO need someone to organize a school event? Volunteer for it! This will help you become socially integrated into the new area.

10. Establish new routines.

Let's face it -- everything has probably changed for you. And that includes your routines. Maybe your route to work is a lot longer, so now you can't get up early to do your morning workout. Try to figure out ways that you can still do the things you love, but with different routines.

11. Think of it as a new beginning, not an ending.

The only thing constant in life is change. And while most people resist change, it's just not possible to do so. Everything ends eventually, but that also means that it's a new start. So, make sure you don't look back. The past is over. Embrace your new future and look forward to the wonderful things yet to come!

Whether you like moving or not, we all do it. If you take some of these tips into consideration when you are going through this transition, it will make your life a whole lot easier!

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