Moving out, especially from your childhood home, can be sad and stressful. You are leaving behind not just the safety of having your parents around when you need them, but also the routines and memories you have created over the years.
Moving out is not exactly fun, but there are ways to make the transition as smooth as possible.
Call The Professionals
Hiring packing and moving services can, of course, save you a lot of time and stress. A professional moving company will have the appropriate equipment and will know how to properly handle your belongings.
It is best to research and speak to a moving company early in the process so you can find the service that works for what you need. It will save you a lot of trouble if you book a moving company ahead of time. Waiting to do so might leave you without a moving partner or a truck when you need to go.
Declutter
You do not need all of your possessions when you move to your new home. Before you start packing, bring everything out and decide which items will be useful when you start your new life. The rest needs to go.
Things that are still in good condition can be donated to charity shops like Goodwill and Salvation Army. Others, you can pass down to family and friends.
Be ruthless; items that have not been used in a really long time or you do not plan on using any time soon should be left behind. The less you have to pack, the less stressful the whole process is going to be.
Start Packing Ahead of Time
Create your own checklist and timeline ahead of your moving date. If possible, start packing items you do not need in your day-to-day life, like books or some clothing items. By the time you need to pack everything, you would not be in a hurry and it would reduce the risk that you will leave something important behind.
Keep a bag or a suitcase that contains essentials, such as medicine, phone chargers, a few clothes, and a toothbrush, that you will bring with you on the plane or in the car. This will be helpful in case something goes wrong like if the truck gets lost or does not arrive on the day you expect.
Label each box and tape them well. Place breakables in dish-barrel boxes and make sure to fill it in with bunched-up paper as padding. Do not leave empty spaces in boxes. Fill in gaps with clothing, beddings, towels, or even packing paper to prevent items from moving and save them from damages while in transit. If you have expensive pieces, ask your mover if they have a special crate.
Moving out from your home is a new beginning, a chance for you to build the life you want and have a space to work on your goal. At first, it will feel overwhelming, but know that you will eventually settle on new routines and grow to become more self-reliant. Just give it time. Decorate your new place so you can feel comfortable and at home. Call your family when you feel lonely. Explore your new neighborhood and get to know your neighbors. This is just the beginning of a new adventure.