Dealing with a Stressful Move

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Moving can be one of the most stressful events in life.  If you are moving just down the block from your family consider yourself lucky.  You probably will be maintaining the same family structure, job, school and social circle.  If you’re moving because of divorce, a new job or financial difficulties, you’re sure to be dealing with much more stress surrounding your move.  At Apartments.com we are familiar with the moving process and understand the emotions that go along with it.  We can help you to find your new apartment and we want to make sure you move comfortably too.  As you pack your boxes with your dishes and clothing, also pack up the life you’re leaving behind.

Here are some things you should pack for your move:
 
A Picture of Your New Life
Before you move,or soon after you arrive, make a list or write a story that describes what your life will be like in your new location.  Some psychologists say you can determine your level of happiness in your new home if you can figure out how many of the things that made you happy will still exist.  Can you still go to the gym?  Will you have a job you’ll enjoy?  Will you get to be around your kids or other important people in your life?  Pig out on pepperoni pizza? 
 
If you are going through a divorce or are dealing with a job loss, think about why those things didn’t work and what you learned from the situation.  For now, focus on the little things that make you happy and don’t worry if the perfect relationship or job doesn’t materialize immediately.
 
Memories of Your Old Life
If you’re moving to a new city, one of the worst parts of moving can be the sudden tug away from your support system.  Your friends, perhaps family and places like your favorite coffee shop are not in your daily life anymore.  As you make new connections, don’t be afraid to put up photos and mementos from your old neighborhood.  Photos of friends have a powerful place in our lives.  Be sure that you display only pictures of people who still make you happy—don’t surround yourself with photos from a failed relationship.  You’re moving on and the ol’ heart is moving on with you.  If your photo collection contains nothing but pictures of you and your ex making silly faces at the camera, go out and buy some art prints to celebrate the new phase of your life.  Make your new home a place that reflects the person you are now and who you want to be tomorrow.
 
Acceptance of Your Choice and the Ability to Embrace the Bumps Along the Way
Moving is a big decision and it’s also one that you’ve already made.  Relax and take in the experience, good and bad.  When you’re a renter, plan about $1,000 more than you budgeted for last-minute expenses.  Just consider it the price you’re paying for a great new change and don’t dwell on it.  Trust that you made the right choice and know that there is no going back.  If you dwell on the past, you might never get to embrace the new life that awaits you.  
 
A Sense of Control
Once you’ve made the decision to move, find assurance in the knowledge that you do have options when things don’t go as planned.  You can negotiate details like your actual move date, certain fees and the length needed to secure a loan.  Remember that you are the one living in this new place, not your landlord or your bank representative.  If the phone company is a week late with your connection, make sure they prorate your bill.  If all else fails, picture yourself in a month with all the details nailed down and all the boxes unpacked.  Take baby steps to get to that place and know that it will happen in time.  Sometimes, good things are worth the wait.
 
Time to Laugh and Let Loose
This is not the time to be a super-hero.  You need to see moving as a process, not a week-long crazed project.  Unpack the kitchen boxes with your favorite music on and dance around the room.  Then go buy groceries and stop for an ice cream on the way.  Enjoy your new neighborhood and all the new changes in your life.  Perhaps the only thing that made it through the move in one piece was you and that’s something to celebrate! 

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