It’s the final countdown! We’re heading to our new city to find our new home, getting quotes from relocators, and selling off and donating extra pieces that no longer serve us. I’ve now moved countless times and each time I’ve refined the process. Here are some of my top tips to help you during your next move.
Moving is one thing, but managing a move with the entire family along for the ride is exceptionally stressful. From packing and coordinating to running over all the “what ifs” in your head, enjoying the process seems impossible. It can be pretty overwhelming!
1. Host a Garage Sale
Before you start packing, consider hosting a garage sale. Not only will it help you get rid of items you no longer need or want, but it can also be fun to involve the whole family. Have everyone in the family help you sort through items, price them, and set them up for sale. You can even turn it into a competition to see who can sell the most items!
Not wild about an in-person sale? Turn to online options (they’re endless) and donate the bits that aren’t sold. There’s nothing better than moving into a new place without clutter weighing you down.
2. Create a Moving Playlist
Make a playlist of your family’s favorite songs and play it while you’re packing and organizing. This can help lift everyone’s spirits and make the process more enjoyable.
Everybody can pick songs to add that they want to show each other. Moving doesn’t have to be all monotonous packing; it can be a dance party too. If there’s a long drive during your move, make sure to select some audiobooks and create an upbeat playlist for that time too. We typically alternate and it helps pass the time by very quickly!
3. Get Help
Moving can be a big job, so don’t hesitate to ask for help. Sometimes we think we can do more in a certain amount of time but I learned during my last three moves… it’s just better to hire movers to assist you with the heavy lifting if budget should allow. Plan well ahead for moving services, storage boxes, and furniture installments. Services like SMARTBOX Solutions, Inc. offer many options you can use to your advantage.
You can make the process smoother and spend time with loved ones before you move.
4. Take a Road Trip
If you’re moving to a new city or state, consider turning the move into a road trip. This can be a fun way to explore new places and create memories with your family.
Plan your route ahead of time and make stops at fun tourist attractions, restaurants, and landmarks along the way.
5. Keep A Positive Mindset
Moving can be challenging, but it’s crucial to maintain a positive attitude throughout the process. Focus on the excitement and possibilities of a new home rather than the stress and challenges of the move itself.
At times things will seem unbearable and tasks endless. It technically can be unbearable but it is sure to end. Keep the end in sight and you’ll be on your way in no time!
I remember our move from Massachusetts to Ohio, our route took us through the path of a hurricane, and a chock-full fruit truck ended up spilling ripe tomatoes right in front of us during our drive. It was nervewracking!
6. Involve Everyone in the Process
Moving is a significant change; your pets and kids are probably more affected by that change than they let on. Because they have no control over the changes in their lives, they can get agitated and act out, making everybody more stressed.
I always do my best to engage Frida a bit extra or have her at daycare playing with her friends while movers are here to ensure she isn’t stressed or overexcited by all the commotion and has no chance of escaping!
Open Communication
Moving can be emotional, and it’s essential to keep communication open with your family throughout the process. Encourage everyone to share their feelings and concerns about the move and try to address any issues that arise.
Keeping communication open can help to ease anxiety and prevent misunderstandings. It can also ensure everyone is on the same page and working together towards a common goal.
Plan for Breaks and Practice Self-Care
Moving can be physically and emotionally exhausting, so taking breaks and practicing self-care is important. This might include taking a walk outside, getting a massage, or taking a few hours to relax with a good book.
When planning out your moving calendar, include days that aren’t all about the hustle and bustle but are just about what you want to do. This way, when you’re lugging around couches thinking, “god, I wish I were at the movie theaters right now,” you have a day prepared to do just that!
Moving doesn’t have to be a stressful experience for you and your family. With a little creativity and effort, you can turn moving into an adventure that your family will remember for years to come.
