Life transitions can be stressful. In fact, moving is considered even more stressful than divorce to many, according to OnePoll. 

While it should be the beginning of a new and exciting chapter on your journey, moving has become a significant source of stress. 

The last time I calculated, I think I've moved more than 20 times in my 40 some years. I know all too well the stress that comes with moving and the desire to feel settled, focused, and in control of your space. It's true that order is a contributor to inner peace. And a house full of boxes does not bring peace — it brings a feeling of chaos and overwhelm. 

Nobody has the mental or physical energy for that!

Stephen Covey, the author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, always said to begin with the end in mind. But what if you can't even visualize the end of the moving process? Or what if you already know what you want and just don't have the time to create it? 

I’m going to share a few of my favorite strategies to help you unpack and settle into your new place so that you can start on the right foot and hit the ground running.

Let's start with what I don't suggest while unpacking and organizing in your new home. 

What do I not recommend when unpacking your new home? 

• Buying Containers First. 

Don't buy any containers until you ABSOLUTELY know you need them. 

Many clients start with a container purchase, but that's rarely what they need to get their project started. 

I recommend purchasing containers last for various reasons: 

• There is a possibility that after you organize or remove some items you don't want, you won't need the containers anymore.  

• With all the storage options available, it can be tempting to buy them all. But, not all of them will make your life easier. Sometimes containers look great, but won’t help you stay organized. 

• After you finish organizing, the container you just bought might not fit the aesthetic you are going for. 

Do what you can with what you have. There is an excellent chance that what you have is already enough.

Unless, of course, you just need some retail therapy to get you started and in the mood…

• Trying to Tackle It All in One Day. 

A common mistake is underestimating the amount of time it takes to unpack and organize all their possessions in their new space. 

One day is not enough time to get your home guest-ready, and that's okay. 

Unpacking and organizing takes time. 

You may not even have a full day to unpack because you have work or children to take care of. 

This process takes time and energy, so don't put pressure on yourself to do it all at once. This will lead to an unpleasant, frustrating, and tiring experience.  

This is a new chapter in your life, and it should be exciting and fun!    

What do I recommend when unpacking?

• Pack a Day-One Priority Box 

Before you pack your boxes according to rooms, pack a day-one priority box. 

This is the most important box you can pack because it holds the essentials you use every day. 

Categorizing boxes makes the moving process easier. 

But having a day-one box keeps everything you need immediately in one place as you get settled into your new home. 

The box should include all of the items that you use every day right at your fingertips.  

You won't have to go through all your other boxes just to find your toothbrush or your laptop charger. 

 Items in a Priority Box can include: 

• Bedding 

• Towels 

• Toiletries 

• Medications

• Fresh clothing for work and rest 

• Chargers for your electronics 

• Shoes 

• Start With Your Children's Rooms 

If you have children, unpack their room first. 

Moving is stressful, and it can be just as stressful or even more so for your children. Children thrive on routine and knowing what will happen next. Moving is anything but routine. It can be chaotic and messy. 

By organizing your child's room first, you provide them with a familiar and comfortable place to be right away. Your child can take time to settle into their room while you unpack the rest of the house. 

• Unpack the Kitchen 

 As mentioned earlier, unpacking takes energy. 

 Having your kitchen essentials organized and ready to go will allow you to stop for snacks and meals that will keep you energized while unpacking the rest of the home. 

• Make Your Bed 

This simple trick can make you feel like royalty. Having a made bed makes resting and relaxing after a long day of work much easier. 

A freshly made bed also makes a room look more organized. 

For me, the next priority is the coffee station to hit the ground running on day one. ;) 

Hire Professional Organizers that Unpack

If you don't have the energy to think or stress about unpacking and organizing all your boxes after a long move, we can help. 

Here at Organized By Keli & Co, we offer unpacking and organizing services to help you get fully situated into your new home. While we are based in Denver, Colorado, we also travel to help no matter where you are. 

After we do all the unpacking and planning, all you need to do is enjoy your new organized home. 

Contact us today to get started.