Let's face it: moving is stressful. I should know, I've moved 26 times in my life. Each move, whether across town, to another city, or another country, brings its own unique challenges as well as its own special rewards. Without a doubt, moving to a new environment is as physically and psychologically draining as the death of a loved one or divorce. Is it really a wonder, then, that we all try to move as few times as possible?



When faced with a move, there is a lot of support for planning the logistics of your physical move. Decisions such as whether to hire a professional moving company or to pack oneself are easily made based on budgetary considerations, distance and availability of friends and family for support. Proper planning (including a Moving Action Plan) and support can make your physical move seamless.

The emotional aspects of moving, however, require more care and attention. Adjusting to a new environment and space takes time. Though the physical move can take mere hours, it can take up to six months to feel “at home” and remember the placement of the cutlery drawer in your new home and it can take up to a year to adjust to new neighbours and the customs of a new language and even longer if there is a new language to learn. Be patient. It will all fall into place in time.

Here are some tips to help lessen the adjustment period following a move:

Commit: The phase leading up to your move is difficult. You often feel pulled between two different places – your new and old homes. Once you've moved, it's essential to commit to being fully present in your new environment. While it's natural to have fond memories of your old abode, focusing on the past will only make your adjustment harder. Be honest about your level of commitment to your new environment and the reasons why it's worth it to settle into your new environment. Look for the good in every situation rather than longing for what was left behind.

Have Compassion: The physical and emotional impact of moving affects members of your family in different ways and may manifest itself as arguments or conflict. Be aware that stress plays out differently in children and adults. Though it may be difficult at times, keeping the lines of communication open is critical to a successful transition. Be open and honest about your feelings surrounding the move. Be tolerant of the feelings of others and understand that they may act out or be more on edge during the weeks leading up to and after the move.

Acknowledge Strengths: Each member of your family has unique gifts and natural talents that can be a source of strength during transition. Assign moving tasks based on skill set. For example, an organized and methodical teen can be assigned the task of packing up his / her own possessions and those of a younger sibling. Or they can be asked to help organize the kitchen or set up the bathroom. Acknowledging the strengths and contributions of each family member during transition helps each family member to feel like an important and active participant in the moving process and gives them a sense of control over their environment.

Prepare for your next move by acknowledging the important role that emotions play in your physical move. By incorporating the above tips into your moving strategy, you will help all members of your family feel that they have choices and are in control of the circumstances surrounding their move. A move to a new environment provides enriching opportunities for enhancing self-esteem, renewing energy and leading a fulfilled life. You deserve a smooth transition. Acknowledging the emotional aspect of moving leads to fewer feelings of guilt and inadequacy. Be sure your next move is a smooth one by including self-care on your Moving Action Plan.