5 Simple Tips to Manage the Stress of Moving

Even if you’re looking forward to living somewhere new, anxiety is a guaranteed part of moving. Packing up your belongings and starting fresh is a big deal, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Anyone can use these five simple tips to manage the stress of moving and have a better experience.

Whether you’re venturing out on your own or you’ve moved before, these strategies ease  moving responsibilities. You’ll feel more than prepared when the moving truck arrives and only experience excitement when it’s time to go.

Stress always seems more intense if you’re not getting enough sleep. Your mind needs time to recharge before the next day so it can deal with your anxiety and stress efficiently. Set a strict bedtime to get eight hours of sleep every night. You’ll immediately feel an improvement and have the strength to get through the moving process.

Packing a one-bedroom apartment might not take long, but bigger living spaces are a different story. Don’t leave everything to the last minute. Schedule your packing over a few weekends to gradually box up your belongings at a sustainable pace. It won’t feel overwhelming because you’ll have a doable time frame.

Do you really need to move everything in your home? Sort through your things and create an extensive inventory to get a fresh perspective. Use your free time to move stuff into donate and keep piles on paper so you don’t have to load anything into your car until you know what you want to do with your belongings. You’ll have less to put in boxes and help your community.

Paperwork is a significant source of stress during a move. People may make you wait to sign everything until the big day, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. Talk with your future landlord or current realtor about what can get done ahead of time. Finishing what you can will ease your anxiety so you have more energy to focus on other parts of your move.

When you get stressed, your first instinct might be to ignore it. It’s easier to push negativity aside, but it only lets it build. Recognize your feelings and release them to prevent an explosion. You could spend time with friends, exercise to minimize stress or start a new hobby.

Even if facing your anxiety makes it loom even larger over you, it’s healthier to channel it. Release it through helpful habits and time with loved ones to avoid hurting your health and making your move even more difficult. Take note of what helps you the most. You might use them again when life gets challenging in the future.

These five simple tips will manage the stress of moving, but only if you give them a try. Experiment with them as your moving day gets closer. You’ll have more time to enjoy the process and look forward to what your future holds.