Do you cringe at the thought of moving? Most people associate the process with negativity. Sure, it’s a big change and it can cause a little extra stress, but moving can actually be an enjoyable experience. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of it.
1. Set Some Goals – Getting through moving day without losing your temper or growing any gray hairs does not exactly qualify as moving goals, but they are a great place to start. Set lifestyle goals! Maybe you want to start eating healthier or working out more. Perhaps you are determined to finally find a yoga studio to practice at, or maybe you want to start volunteering somewhere.
2. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences – Moving is essentially a new chapter in your book of life. Start this chapter without negative influences bringing you down. Moving is the perfect time to eliminate negative energy from your life.
3. Sell, Donate, and Trash – Don’t move anything you don’t need or want. When you start packing, have three large boxes handy for items you will either sell, trash, or donate. You can make some extra cash to offset moving expenses with money raised through sales. If you donate, get a receipt to claim your contributions when you file taxes.
4. Treat Yourself to Something New – Buy something for your new home. It doesn’t have to be new furniture or an expensive piece of art, if these things are not in the budget. Maybe you have had your eye on a new Keurig machine or bedding.
5. Choose the Right Roommate – Choosing a roommate is a huge decision. Don’t rush into it. Interview prospects, take notes, and pick the ones you think will best complement your lifestyle. You don’t have to be best friends, unless you are specifically looking for someone to hang out with. Some of the best relationships between roommates are shared by those that work opposite shifts and never see one another.
6. Get Lost – If you are moving to an area you are unfamiliar with the last thing you want to do is stay cooped up in your new place. Get out there and explore the area. Find your way to work before you have to punch a time clock. If you will be relying on public transportation ride around and get off at different stops to see what you fine. You will feel more settled once you are comfortable with your surroundings.
7. Get Involved – A new neighborhood means lots of new opportunities. Sign up for a class, or consider volunteering with a nonprofit organization. Meetup.com is a great outlet to use to find other folks with similar interests to engage in activities with.
Moving can be overwhelming, and even a little scary, especially if you are relocating a long distance. Take steps to make the process stress-free, and then get out and enjoy everything your new area has to offer.