Emotions run high
The thought of moving can be overwhelming. Moves are based on many reasons such as careers, financial necessity, desire for a change, retirement. Whatever the reason, emotions run high!
The reason for the move is key
If you are being moved due to a career change, the parameters are probably set, though you may still have to take into account your children being at school, your spouse having another job, etc. You won't have much flexibility and timing can be everything.
If you have to move due to financial or emotional necessity or to help a family member, for instance, the parameters have still been set for you and timing, once again, is everything.
If you are moving because you want a change of location, or are upsizing or downsizing, or are retiring, then the parameters are probably much more flexible. You can move within a framework of your own choosing.....well, maybe -- you may have to sell your property while the timing of buying or renting on the other end can throw a twist into those parameters.
Need to make an action plan
So, regardless of why you are moving, there are a lot of variables involved and you will need to make an actual plan, not in your head but written down! Begin by buying yourself a large paper monthly calendar (or enlarge a regular one at Staples). It is important to map out the months with your preparation for the move. First write in your normal scheduled appointments, vacations, etc. and this will show you what real time you have for implementing a plan. Then make a very detailed list of what needs to be done for the moving out as well as for the moving in aspects of the move. From that list, fill in the known dates for everything needed to be done. You will start to see that there is a time and place for everything, which in turn, should start to make your move seem less overwhelming.
Creating a calendar is crucial
In working with our clients who are moving, creating the plan is the most crucial part of the puzzle. As things change (appointments, closing dates, etc.) these are reflected on this calendar. It makes it easy to check in and see what needs to be done when, so that your move becomes less stressful. While we use a predetermined list of questions, we customize these lists and calendars to our clients' specific needs. The beauty of this approach is that the basic plan can be created in one consultation session.
Having a plan is essential
Having a plan for many things in life is helpful. Having a plan in place for a move is essential!
