Normally the
annual traditions and celebrations observed during the holidays are an anchor
for the soul. Despite the hustle and bustle of organizing, buying, wrapping,
posting and partying, much of the joy and spirit of the season comes in knowing
what to expect.
Except when you’re
moving!
It seems ludicrous
that anyone would intentionally inject more stress into this hectic period than
to schedule a relocation right in the middle of yuletide festivities. Yet many
do by necessity.
They have planned
or paid time off from work off to complete the sorting, packing and cleaning,
loading, travel and unloading arrangements. Kids are out of school so it doesn’t
disrupt their academic schedule as much. Family and friends home for the
holidays can help manage the process.
Frequently the
angst associated with routine relocation activities, however, causes everyone
to overlook the obvious. A little pre-planning can help reduce not only
seasonal anxiety but the normal fear that comes with making a life transition
during a period that’s usually filled with pleasant memories.
•
Separate
the things you need for your holidays festivities. – Don’t pack all the wrapping
paper, ornaments, gifts, cards, clothes or medications until you’re sure they
won’t be needed. You don’t want to arrive at Grandma’s house only to realize
all the presents are secured in a box at home, traveling in a moving truck, or
sitting in storage somewhere.
•
Plan for
delays. – Especially
is you’re using a mover. Many local and long distance drivers schedule time at
home with their own families between Thanksgiving and New Years. It might take
longer than you’d normally expect to pick-up and deliver your household goods.
Frequently moving, storage and utility companies, equipment rental outfits, and
third party labor and appliance services operate on reduced hours or with
smaller crews during the holiday season.
•
Make sure
everyone involved knows your timetable and how to communicate with you. – Share your holiday schedule and
any available contact phone numbers or digital media addresses with everyone
involved in your relocation plans, including your family, friends, moving and
utility companies, loading/unloading labor crews, landlord, moving van driver
etc.
•
Confirm in
advance that each address is accessible. –
A five mile long parade, or restricted access thoroughfare because of other
holiday festivities can quickly throw a monkey wrench into the best thought-out
plans.
If you know
someone involved in a move during this difficult time of year, you can help
most by trying to understand the immense pressure they’re under and offering
your assistance – in whatever manner is needed.
If you’d normally
exchange traditional gifts, plan something personal instead. Select an item
that doesn’t require a lot of additional handling such as a small memento,
card, picture, handmade ornament or family heirloom. Whatever your
contribution, it will be remembered and appreciated long after everything is
unpacked and put away.
