The decision to move to a new state can be a relief or a source of terrible stress. Even if you're moving for a wonderful reason, the stress of the moving process can leave you feeling terribly out of balance. The tips below can help you make the process easier.

Benefits of Moving/Changing your Space/Location

A well-managed move means that you can declutter. If you've been in your space for quite a long time, you may have gathered a lot of possessions that you don't really care for, but you've kept because of inertia.

Create a timeline for your move once you have a moving date. Do your best to consume any and all consumables before you get on the road.

This can include

●      inventorying your freezer and meal planning your remaining days

●      going through your cabinets and using up soaps, lotions and other product

●      clearing your pantry and other storage

As soon as you empty a space, clean it and mark it with masking tape.

A moving sale can be a good way to clear out things you no longer need and raise a bit of cash. If friends have offered to help, ask them to man your moving sale. You likely will need to manage the packing so you can make the necessary decisions. After the moving sale, you can donate what doesn't sell.

How to Balance Changes After a Long Distance Move

Do your best to incorporate a bit of fun into each day in your new area. If you have children, they may soon grow bored with the work of unpacking. Try to book an hour a day for a bit of exploring. This might mean packing a picnic lunch and walking or driving to a local park. Introduce yourself to your neighbors and ask for fun recommendations.

As you drive, keep an eye out for spots that will increase your convenience. Easy access to groceries, a hardware store or a movie theater in your new neighborhood will lower your stress level and make it much easier to manage your unpacking and move-in process.

Both in packing and unpacking, protect yourself from decision fatigue. Unpacking requires a lot of bending and moving, but not a lot of mental work. Try to make your decisions in the morning after breakfast and coffee, then do your unpacking in the afternoon to give your brain a break.

Where Are Most Americans Moving To?

Indications are that many Americans are moving to lower costs. While California was once a very popular destination to move to, citizens of that state are now moving. Arizona has become a popular destination, possibly because people are tired of winter cold.

Citizens are also leaving Pennsylvania, Illinois and Michigan. Populations in Tennessee, North Carolina and South Carolina are growing. No matter the reason for your move, make sure that you give yourself plenty of time to pack, relocate and get settled. 

Your move can be a blessing if properly managed. The process of moving can help you clear clutter, define exactly what it is that you want in your new home, and celebrate the experience of exploring a new space.