Moving? Tame the Stress with the Right Mindset

There are few announcements more terrifying and anxiety producing than, “Guess what?  We’re moving!” Whether you have lived in your home 6 months or 30 years, moving is one of the most stressful events of our lives. However, adopting a “we’re moving” mindset will save you time, moving stress, and help you enjoy your home even more while you live in it.

The “We’re Moving” Mindset

So what is a “we’re moving” mindset?

It’s looking at your house with the idea that you’re moving soon and what you need to (1) get the house ready to show and (2) pack. With these 2 tasks in mind, you will look at your house, its physical state and contents, completely differently and with a proactive mindset. No more putting off a repair or donation.

Does my house need to be repaired?

We all have those minor (or major) repairs looming that we know we need to do…but there never seems to be the right time. It’s always better to do a repair sooner rather than later. The longer you wait, the worse it gets.

Make a list of every repair you would want fixed if you were potentially buying your house. From there you can prioritize and group together similar repairs to expedite the process.

Are there items decorative items missing?

Do you have an empty wall waiting for a piece of artwork? Have you been meaning to get a lamp to light that dark corner of your living room? Go for it! Get the lamp or artwork so you can enjoy your completely functional and beautiful home.

Do I need (or want) to paint?

Think about the last time you painted. Maybe it’s time for a refresh or you’ve always wanted to add color to your ceiling.  Just like the repairs, group several projects together to save money and effort. YOU should be the who reaps the benefit of these changes.

Would I move this?

This question applies to all of the stuff you’ve got taking up space in your house that you don’t really use or even like but you feel guilty getting rid of it. Or don’t know how to get started on the process.  If you look at something and say “I’d never move this” then why are you still keeping it? The longer it stays with you the lower its value to someone else.

Donate or give it away. Recycle it if possible. You can even schedule a charitable organization to come pick up if you have a lot to give away.  Somebody out there is looking for and can use with gratitude whatever it is that you no longer need or want. You just have to find that person.

I realize this sounds like a crazy amount of money to spend in one setting with painting, repairing, and decorating but the emphasis is on actually enjoying your home while you live in it. You don’t have to do a complete house renovation all at once. Make your list of desired decor changes and home improvements so you can plan and prioritize their implementation.  These improvements are for YOU to enjoy your home, not the future homeowner.

Go through your closets, basement, and attic as if you had to pack up its contents and ask yourself,  “it this worth moving?”  Think about who could benefit from its use instead of trying to reshuffle stuff to make room for something you don’t use, need, or want.

Happy organizing!