I would like to think that my previous moves, consisting of five house changes and three state changes (not including my 3 college-related moves), enables me with little knowledge on the subject of moving. So, with that, here are some of the great things and terrible things that come with moving.
The Ups
1. You learn to consolidate
Each move you make is just another opportunity to purge the unnecessary from your life, like the clutter in your closet or under your bed. It can be liberating to rummage through old memorabilia and ask yourself, Why on earth did I keep this very odd or maybe irrelevant memento?" After the house cleanse, you feel lighter and the world is brighter.
2. You meet great people
This is one of my favorite aspects of moving. A new environment might mean you encounter some people that will change your life. You will seriously consider how you lived before you met these wonderful humans. You will make memories that you'll cherish forever and bonds that can never be broken. There really isn't anything better than meeting a new person you genuinely like and can have a good time with, they are there to help you grow as an individual and experience life. You might even meet someone that is not your type of person to be around, but even the unlikable ones come into our lives for a reason, so really, in the end, it isn't all bad.
3. New adventure
Moving to a different town, city, state, country or continent is like starting a fresh book. You don't quite know what to expect, but you have a faint idea. The best way to get acquainted with a new home is to explore. Strolling through nature, talking to the natives, or my personal favorite, finding good food, are all great ways to get out there and make the most of a new residence. Local restaurants, bars, cafes, you name it, you should try it. Getting out there might sound like a no brainer, but it can be a little daunting, which is expected since moving someplace new takes a person out of his or her comfort zone. I encourage you to push yourself to get out there and experience things first hand; you owe it to your new home.
The Downs
1. Leaving the best behind
It's devastating to hear that someone you cherish is moving across the country. To uproot your home isn't easy by any means, and part of the difficulty is leaving what you hold so near and dear to your heart behind. Favorite restaurants, perfect hangout spots and great friends make saying goodbye that much harder.
2. Packing
Unless the professionals come in and pack the house, or even with their help, packing is exhausting. You can't just pack everything and go. No, you have to go through everything and donate what no longer serves you and throw out the items that are best left to live with Oscar the Grouch. It's time consuming and mentally taxing; don't even get me started on the tape gun, packing paper, rolls and rolls of bubble wrap and boxes obstructing your every step.
3. Finding the next house
This is a hard one. Not only must you sell your house or wait for your lease to be up, but you have to find a new place to live. Although moving could be an opportunity to get the ideal casa of your dreams, it will still take time and energy to find it. House hunting can be hit or miss and thus frustrating none the less. Prepare yourself for realtor drama, contract after contract and house inspections for days.
