Things You Need To Know for Your First Move

This is a big deal. Whether you’re moving out for your freshman year of college, or you just got your degree and it’s time to find a new place for good, moving can be an uncertain time. Rest assured that everything will be okay. Here are the most important things you need to know for your first move.

Prepare Yourself Emotionally

For many people, moving out for the first time hits them like a truck. Expect some tearful goodbyes and homesickness; this is completely normal. Leaving the world you’re familiar with is always going to be a painful process, but it’s essential for personal and educational growth.

Remember that your other roommates and dorm-mates are likely feeling the same things as you and there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. You are very, very far from alone.

It’s Not the End of the World

Since the last tip was all about preparing yourself for the impending storm clouds of doom, well, there’s some good news. Even though your life is changing, it doesn’t have to change too much. Your parents are just a FaceTime or phone call away, and they miss you too.

Establishing some form of contact with the things you feel you’ve lost can show you that this isn’t actually as scary as it seems. Your family and friends are still there, and they still care about you. Plus, you’ll see them in a few months for the holidays!

Packing Purposefully

Space in your mom’s minivan is finite, and be honest, do you really need that stack of movie ticket stubs? When the time comes to pack, use space wisely and determine the utility of the items you’re bringing. There’s a lot to consider when filling up your suitcases, so make sure you’re doing it right.

Don’t forget, objects that bring you some form of comfort also have utility. If that stack of ticket stubs means something to you, take it with you.

Time Management

The most time-consuming aspect of your move is packing, so plan accordingly. It’s generally a good idea to set aside three to five days for this part of the process. Unpacking is another tedious piece of your moving puzzle, but you don’t have to rush it.  Once you’ve made it to your new place, alleviate stress by taking time to get settled in. Take all the time you need.

Ensure you give yourself ample time to sleep every night. If you can’t avoid early-morning activities, sticking to a strict bedtime is a must.

Seek Out Activities

Joining clubs, going to the gym, taking walks, and looking for part-time work are all great ways to become quickly accustomed to your new home. That the more active you are, the less you’ll remember what it is you’re missing about your hometown.

There are a lot of things you need to know before your first move, but you can do it. You’ll be okay, and you’ll probably have more fun than you’ve ever had before!

image credit: twenty20.com