There is something truly special about being mobile. The ability to pick up and move is a great feeling, and being able to follow opportunities feels even better. But the actual process of moving is something else entirely.
Unless you are a masochist or a professional mover, chances are you dread the moving experience. Moving can be a stressful experience in the best of times, and at worst there are dozens of things that can go wrong.
So, how do you move without losing your mind and sacrificing your sanity? Here are three smart tips for surviving moving day with your body and your brain intact.
Make a Checklist
Moving is a complicated endeavor, and you need a plan to get it done. Working from a checklist is the best way to ensure that every part of the moving process, from updating your address with the post office to tipping your movers, is organized and complete.
Your checklist should be sorted by time and based on the actual moving date. Checking off the tasks for one month ahead, two weeks ahead and so on will give you a sense of accomplishment and help ensure that everything gets done on time.
You can find these ready-made checklists online, but be sure to review them carefully. Some of the items on the list may not apply to you, while others may need to be adjusted.
Label Everything
Nothing is worse for your moving day sanity than arriving at your new home with dozens of generic boxes. If you want to make the post-move process easy, label everything before you leave your current home.
Boxes should be labeled by room, of course, but also by contents. Unless you are moving from a tiny apartment, it will probably take more than one box to hold everything in your kitchen, bathroom or bedroom. Labeling each box with what it contains will make unpacking and setting up house far easier, and all you need are a few marking pens and a couple extra minutes per box.
Pack a Go Bag
As moving day arrives, more and more of your possessions will be in boxes, and that can make daily life difficult. If you want moving day to go off without a hitch, make sure you pack a go bag.
This go bag should be filled with the stuff you will need in the lead-up to moving day, including prescription medications, a spare charger for your smartphone and snacks to keep you energized. You might also want to pack a bottle of wine and a couple of glasses for when moving day is done; just be sure to pack your corkscrew.
Moving day can be stressful, but it does not have to be. If you plan ahead and work smart, you can survive your move with your sanity (and your back) intact.
