Mov-ing: verb
- to go from one place of residence to another
Mov-ing: adjective
- stirring deeply in a way that evokes a strong emotional response
What is the first thing you think about when someone mentions they will be “moving”? Usually it’s the hassle of packing all the boxes, the big moving truck pulling up in front of the home, and the adventures of relocating in a new area that pops into our minds. However, that’s just the action or the physical part of moving. There is so much physical work required to move a household from one place to another that we often overlook the adjective “moving”, or the emotional part of transitions.
Just mentioning the idea of moving will elicit a mix of emotions from people. There may be the sadness of leaving the home that they love and have enjoyed for many years or of the separation caused by moving away from friends and family. Some may look forward to starting over, developing new friendships and discovering a different and exciting area. This grab bag of emotions makes moving so much for than just a physical transition.
Psychologists say that moving can be one of the most stressful events in life. The moving process involves many decisions and changes throughout the transition stages. It may challenge relationships between the people involved. It can cause priorities to be reevaluated. It is demanding on time and can pull you away from the things you desire or are accustomed to. Some residential moves are not by choice but rather out of necessity. Life events like divorce, death, job change, health or financial crisis can necessitate a move even when the resident isn’t emotionally ready or fully on board. When a move is essential, the stress and emotions involved increase all the more.
It is important to take time during the busy moving time to acknowledge the various emotions of all those involved in this process. Talking about concerns can relieve some of the anxiety as well as help others understand your thoughts and actions.
Another helpful step is to shift your focus to what lies ahead of you rather than focusing on what you are leaving. For example, however hard it maybe to leave the large house you have been in for many years, think about how easy it will be to care for your new smaller space. Look for the positives and make those your emphasis.
The next time you hear the word “moving”, remember that it’s so much more than just the physical act. It is accompanied by the stirring of a strong emotional response. Take time to reflect on those feelings and strive to make your move a less stressful one.
© Beth Giles 2015
NW Organizing Solutions
503-709-0791