Here’s some tips from the experts on how you can feel settled and happy after your move— even while you’re living amongst boxes.
Start where your daily habits do
Make it easy to get into your daily habits and start living well from the day you move in. Most people start unpacking the common spaces first but try to focus efforts on your bedroom and bathroom too. Monday’s are hard enough without having to search for your toothbrush or favourite shirt.
Continue your regular routine
Whether it’s putting things in the same places or containers, going for your morning walk, or tucking the kids in with their favourite bedtime story, try to keep as many things in the same routine as possible. Your routine shouldn’t have to change just because your location does.
Let the kids help
If you’re moving with kids, pack their important belongings together and allow them to help unpack their new room. They can spend the afternoon unpacking their toys and organising their collections. This will both help them adjust to the new place, feel ownership and control over the move and most importantly, they’ll be happy. Even if the rest of the house is a mess, that’s all that matters.
Get your artwork and photos
Art and wall decorations are often the last things to go up however they are the easiest way to make your new place feel like your home. Of course, it makes sense to wait until everything else is unpacked and your new place is organised. But, if you start by unpacking small pieces and frames and lean them against walls and tables, you can still enjoy them until you’ve decided where to install everything.
Recreate familiar sounds and sights
Simple things like a clock on the wall or a collection of frames in the same arrangement will create a subtle familiarity to help you feel at home.
Unpack all your favourites
For instant cosiness, light your favourite candles or play the music you love. If you have a favourite TV show, book or a Netflix go-to, make sure you make some time to enjoy them. Pull out all your favourite bedding, including pillows, sheets, and throws. There is nothing more comforting than sleeping in your own bed.
Home is having a home cooked meal
To many, home is enjoying a homemade meal. Unpack the kitchen so you can cook one of your favourite meals to enjoy or break in the kitchen stovetop or BBQ with a quality steak. The heat and the smells will ‘season’ your new place and it’ll smell and feel like home. Even if you’re living among boxes, eating a simple recipe on the floor; it’s worth it.