6 tips to moving!

Moving from one place to another can be a very exciting, uncertain and stressful transition especially when relocating from one state to another. There are so many things to consider in order to successfully relocate. Fortunately, we live in an age where so much can be done quickly and efficiently. Sierra and I made a huge move from Ohio to California and we learned many lessons along the way and I would like to pass them on to you all! Before you make the decision to begin the process, please meditate on your options and ask yourself a few questions:

1. Why do I want to move? 2. Is moving a realistic option? 3. Will this move help cultivate a life of happiness?

Once you consider those questions and many others along the way, you’ll begin to understand what is best for you!

1. Google! Google! Google! First things first, get on your favorite search engine and research locations you have in mind. Many of the steps to moving can be done effectively on these search engines and will be your best friend.

Figure out if these potential areas will cater to you and your lifestyle. Understand the cost of living and determine if these areas are affordable. Once you narrow down your options, figure out if your current job allows transfers. If not, look for job postings through sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster etc. and begin the application process. A job will greatly impact your choice of location. Be aware that many jobs will prefer you be in town already so don't expect a rapid response but don't let that discourage you, instead allow it to motivate you!

2. Budget Once you get an idea of what locations attract you, begin to understand the average cost of living. You can easily do some quick searches on average costs on rent, utilities, groceries etc. Once you get an estimate of costs, you can begin to budget accordingly with or without a job lined up. I would recommend you save up enough money to get you through at least the first month upon arrival. Your budget will ultimately be an estimate until you actually begin living in your new home but err on the cautious side and make some sacrifices if you have to (a few less snacks here and there can go a long way). After budgeting your costs of living, budget your costs of moving. Determine whether or not you will fly, drive, hitchhike or whatever means of transportation will best suit you. Most likely you will end up making a road trip unless you can afford to ship your entire life. Find some reputable moving companies and get some quotes. You can add to cart whatever equipment you need and see the final total without actually paying. Sierra and I went with a U-Haul trailer that would be towed by our car but that meant we had to purchase and install a hitch to our car which can add a pretty penny to your budget. You will have to account for gas costs, toll costs, food costs and potentially hotel costs if the trip is longer than expected. If you plan on doing some sightseeing along the way, be sure to consider those costs as well.

3. Mark your calendar! Keep in mind that many of these steps to moving can be happening simultaneously so be sure to give yourself ample time to figure things out. Patience is key and timing is everything! If possible, mark your move date during a slower period of your year so that you may focus as much as possible on the move. Begin mapping out your trip and understand how long it’ll take you to arrive. Utilize tools such as Google maps and cost calculators. I would highly suggest that you see what others have to say about potential routes with a quick search online. There are many people out there who will tell you what routes to avoid and what to expect; especially the kind of terrain and weather you’ll potentially encounter.

Consider how long it'll take you to acquire your necessary funds and how long it'll take for you to sort out current obligations such as leases, utility services, and job duties. Sierra and I knew ahead of time that we wanted to make our move and fortunately, we had ample time to get a head start on our funds. If you can, resist the temptations of buying the new gadgets until you make that move! Once you get an idea of when you want to make that move, start marking dates of “action”. For example, we planned on leaving in August, so I began discussions with my employer in April to begin my transfer process; I spoke with my landlord a few months ahead about my lease options; I called my utility services to understand my obligations to cancel and I did these things with tentative dates in mind and acted on them accordingly.

4. Make it happen! Now that you have begun the process of planning, it is time to start acting on those plans! Get the ball rolling and everything will begin to fall into place. Your patience will definitely be tested as you eagerly await your departure date but remain focused and in a blink of an eye, you will be in your new home! Take advantage of the in-between time by packing a room at a time and consolidate your belongings as much as you can; especially if you plan on driving. It can be fun and nostalgic as you scour through all of your belongings but beware of the inevitable desire to hoard as much as you can because it will creep up on you. If you plan on driving to your new destination, get your vehicle checked as thoroughly as possible. Get yourself an oil change, some fresh coolant, new brakes and tires if possible and everything else you can afford! You do not want to have to deal with a broken down car in the middle of nowhere with no phone signal.

5. The time has come! At this point, the date for departure is right around the corner and it is time to finalize and triple check your to-do list. Excitement and anxiousness will most likely be present but you have come this far! It's a bittersweet moment knowing you will be saying goodbye to many friends and loved ones but you’ll be saying hello to a new chapter! Take this time to really enjoy and cherish this change! It's challenging yet very rewarding! If possible, plan a going away party so that you can say your goodbyes and have one last hoorah!

You’ll definitely experience some mixed emotions as the date arrives but do your best to live in the moment! Remain open-minded and do your best to be calm, cool, and collected as you depart. Have some entertainment ready and pack some snacks! Say a little prayer and explore what the world has in store for you!

6. You made it! Hopefully, you have made it to your new home and it is time to settle in. Take a moment to breathe in the new air and stretch your legs. Grab a well-deserved meal and relax if time permits; you can tackle reality afterward. Unpack everything and begin to set up utilities and the necessities you need to resume daily life. There is no need to rush exploring your new city because you are a resident, not a tourist. It can be a little daunting becoming a newfound stranger but it is an opportunity to start over and re-discover yourself. Meet new people and step out of your comfort zone. It’s a big world and it eagerly awaits you!

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I hope these 6 steps helped you in some way or another or at least shed some light on some ideas and tips you can use for your future endeavors. I am excited for all of you who decide to someday make that huge move! You’re going to enjoy it!

If you have any tips or stories to share about your moving experiences, feel free to comment and share it with the world! Please be sure to like and share this article if you found it helpful!

Here is one of my favorite images from our visit to the Grand Canyon. This was shot using HDR.

#lifestyle #moving #tips #roadtrip