Relocating is a major decision, and while it can surely bring feelings of excitement, the whole process can also be quite draining. And that’s understandable—after all, you may have to say goodbye to friends and family and leave your current life behind to start a new chapter elsewhere.
If you’re moving long-distance soon and experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions as a result, know that this is entirely normal. The good news is you can learn how to cope with these emotions and minimize stress so your long-distance move is successful.
Don’t leave things to the last minute
Moving to a new place requires preparation, and since many tasks need to be completed, make sure not to delay them. This will help you avoid a last-minute rush, making the process of relocating much less difficult. Obviously, packing is one of the most important things you should do when preparing to move long-distance, and the earlier you start doing it, the better, as you will have enough time to sort your stuff and decide which items to pack. There’s no point in bringing items you will never use, so if they aren’t indispensable, sell, donate or throw them out. Also, make sure to stay organized as you pack—for example, consider marking the boxes so you know what’s inside them.
Another crucial aspect—if you choose to go this route—is hiring a moving company to ensure your items are safely transported to your new home. Take the time to do your research so you can find the best long-distance movers. The costs vary depending on factors such as the distance traveled and your belongings’ weight, and the delivery can take anywhere from 1-21 days (and sometimes more), depending on the distance. Make sure to discuss these aspects with the moving company from the beginning so you can know what to expect.
Focus on the advantages
People decide to relocate for various reasons: maybe they’ve found a better job somewhere else or maybe they simply want to start a new life in a different place. Whatever the situation, moving long-distance can feel overwhelming—and perhaps a bit scary. After all, it’s hard to get out of your comfort zone and embrace the unknown. Moreover, bidding farewell to your loved ones can be difficult, but remember that nowadays, staying in touch is easier, thanks to all the technological advancements.
Moving requires a lot of effort and can bring about stress and anxiety, but try not to dwell too much on the negative, and instead, think about the adventure that awaits. Allow yourself to daydream about the opportunities this new beginning brings, and see it as a chance to grow as a person. You may experience some initial discomfort, but as long as you keep an open mind, you will definitely thrive in your new home.
Get rest
Lack of sleep negatively impacts your mood, decreasing your mental well-being and cognitive functioning. Since a long-distance relocation can be stressful, it’s vital to rest properly so that you can handle all the tasks more efficiently. In other words, sleeping will make you feel better, so make sure to prioritize it.
Getting enough sleep can be tricky, though, considering how much you need to do before you move. But even if you have all those responsibilities, you must remember that your well-being and health are of the utmost importance. So, take care of yourself.
Make exciting plans
Don’t let the anxiety of moving long-distance trick you into believing things won’t turn out well. Remember that it’s OK to feel scared and excited at the same time. Envision your new life in a positive way, and think about how you can make the most of your relocation. Consider researching the place where you will move, and make some plans to explore it. This may help alleviate your worries and make you feel more emotionally prepared for the relocation.
Every place is unique in its own way, so find out what makes your new home special. Maybe it’s the people who are friendly and welcoming. Or maybe there are many interesting places to discover in the city. Try to find out what activities and events are organized there—you can make plans to attend and meet like-minded people.
Ask for support
Moving long-distance is a big deal, but remember that you don’t have to go through the process alone. If you need help, ask for it! Your friends and relatives will likely be there for you to provide support, making the moving process much more manageable. Whether you need help with certain tasks, such as packing, or you simply need to talk about how you feel, allow your loved ones to assist you.
Having a support system is important regardless of your situation, as it can help you stay motivated and cope with stress and anxiety. Plus, this is a great opportunity to spend time with those supportive friends and family members before you leave, so don’t hesitate to make that call when you need it.
Expect the unexpected
Settling into your new home can feel daunting, so it’s important to not rush the process. Your routine won’t be the same, and you will likely have to make changes in your lifestyle. Expecting everything to go smoothly is unrealistic, but while there may be challenges along the way, you can overcome them like a pro if you prioritize self-care and create a stress management plan.
As time goes by, you will manage to settle in your new city, build new connections and create a different routine that fits your current lifestyle. So, take a deep breath and allow yourself to embrace the journey entirely.
The bottom line
Moving long-distance is a significant transition, and it’s normal to have ambivalent feelings about it. However, you don’t want to let anxiety drain you and prevent you from being excited about this adventure. So, take the time to plan for your move, and remember to stay positive.
