Moving solo is not an easy task, but with sufficient planning, you will survive it and may even enjoy it. Many of us feel nervous and anxious, leaving behind the life we know with our regular routines, but if you approach this move as the start of a new adventure, it can help you gain a more positive perspective. There are also several logistical issues that you need to consider when moving on your own.

6 Tips for Moving Solo

1. Focus on Self-Care

Moving on your own is a challenge both physically and mentally. Most people tend to focus on the logistics of the move and often put their health on the back burner. Make your health a priority, as this will ensure that your move proceeds according to plan. For example, high stress levels disrupt your gut microbiome, which can lead to issues like bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. Stomach issues can upend the best of plans and will leave you racing against the clock to get everything done.

A simple but effective way to address this is to take a daily probiotic supplement, as it will keep your gut microbiome healthy and prevent these problems. Not all probiotics are equally effective, so compare the top probiotic supplements in the market that have been reviewed by experts to help you choose one that suits you. You should also set aside time for meditation and/or relaxation on a daily basis to reduce your stress and anxiety. 

2. Create a Game Plan

When you need to move, your initial impulse is probably to go out and buy packing boxes, bubble wrap, and tape so that you can prepare. Resist the temptation and instead sit down and create a plan. Start with the basics and then flesh out your plan to include approximate costs, timelines, and other specifics. You should set aside an amount that is at least ten percent of your estimated moving budget as a buffer to cover unexpected costs that will crop up.

3. Schedule Time to Declutter 

Even if you are moving to an apartment that is more spacious than your current place, it’s important to put aside time to declutter. This will not only make the move a lot easier but also help you evaluate everything you own so that you are able to sell or donate the things you don’t need anymore. Studies show that there is a significant link between cluttering and mental distress, so decluttering before you move will help improve your overall mental and emotional state.

4. Create an Organization System That Works for You 

There are plenty of ways to organize your belongings, and you will find a lot of conflicting information on the best way to do this. There is no single method that is universally accepted as the “best” method because what works for others may not always work for you. Some people prefer to start by packing all the items that they don’t use frequently, while others prefer to pack according to room.

Whatever method you choose, the important thing is that you label your boxes clearly. You can use a Sharpie to mark the contents of the box, along with different colored stickers, so that you can tell what kind of items are in the box at a glance.

5. Learn to Lift the Right Way 

Even if you have professionals to help you with your move, it is likely that you will still need to do some amount of lifting during the process. If you are in your 30s or older, you are more likely to hurt your back if you lift a heavy object the wrong way, because as we get older, our muscles and ligaments become less flexible. Learn to lift the right way to prevent back injuries.

6. Prepare for the Unexpected

You may believe that your moving plans are perfect and that you have absolutely everything under control, and yet, when moving day comes around, you find yourself scrambling to manage some unforeseen obstacle. This is why you need to build flexibility into your plans with both time and money so that you can easily handle any last-minute surprises.