Self Improvement

How To Stay Calm During a Big Move

posted on July 27, 2015 | by Amanda Holstein

With my big move back to San Francisco quickly approaching, life has been stressful. From the logistics (like packing and finding a pet-friendly apartment), to the emotional toll that comes with big change, I’ll admit, it hasn’t been easy.

I know they say moving is one of the most difficult things you’ll experience in life, along with death and divorce, but I always felt like moving should be in a different category. Yes, I know first hand how hard it can be, but it also comes with positive change and that should not be overlooked. So in my efforts to focus on the good throughout this transition, I’ve come up with a list of ways to stay calm during a big move.

Make Packing Fun

Although I’ve moved apartments (and cities) many times, I always get a knot in my stomach when I think about packing up all of my stuff. This is probably because I just have SO much stuff. Clothes, decor, crafts, a box of photos from high school — I’ve never really liked throwing things away, so the thought of packing it all up is daunting.

This time around, I decided to make the packing process a bit more fun. I’ve been playing music (a little Mariah Carey never hurt anybody), lighting candles, and inviting friends to drink wine while we pack. And I gotta say, it’s seriously been helping. Half the time I don’t even realize I’m packing because I’m so focused on singing my favorite ’90s songs out loud or catching up with friends over wine (Seven Daughters of course!). I highly recommend this packing method!

Focus On One Thing at a Time

I think one of the most difficult aspects of moving is the shear number of things, big and small, that need to get done. From calling the cable company to setting up a vet appointment to finding a new apartment — when you add it all up, it can be overwhelming. So I suggest focusing on one thing at a time, even if that thing only requires a quick phone call. As a multi-tasking wizard, this can be difficult for me. It’s tempting to pack while I’m on the phone trying to cancel my gym membership. But why create more stress than you need to? Instead, I’m trying to do one thing at a time, and I’ve found that it really helps to relieve the sense of overwhelm that often comes with a big move.

Give Yourself a Break

For some reason, I get these notions in my head that I can do it all. I’ll book shoots and campaigns while I’m going through a big life change, assuming I can totally handle it. Instead of trying to be superwoman, I’m going to try to give myself a break this time around. If I get an email about a collaboration I’d love to take part in, I ask them to get back to me in a month once I’m settled. I’ll even turn opportunities down if I have to. Same goes for social situations. I find that I’m extra sensitive when I’m going through a major transition, so I try not to put so much pressure on myself. Be honest with your friends and coworkers — they’ll understand!

What are some of the ways you get through a big move?

// This post is sponsored by Seven Daughters Wine. I love wine.