Let’s be real: moving is one of the most stressful things a person can do. My family and I know this all too well. Two years ago, we packed up our lives in Ohio and moved to North Carolina. The plan was to rent an apartment for a while to see if we liked the area. It was a leap of faith, especially with our 10-year-old son, who has autism, and our 7-year-old daughter, who has ADHD. Now, after a couple of years of apartment living and falling in love with our new community, we’ve decided to buy what we are hoping is our forever home.
This new move, even though it’s just across town, feels different. It comes with its own unique challenges and an overwhelming sense of finality. As a tired mom who’s been through it and is about to do it again, here’s what I’ve learned about navigating this bumpy, exciting road.
Talk to Your Kids, But Listen More
We’re starting a new life for our kids, right? So it’s important to bring them along for the journey, not just tell them what’s happening. My son with autism thrives on routine, so a move is a massive disruption. We started by creating a visual timeline with him, showing him the steps and what to expect, from packing to moving day. For my daughter with ADHD, the excitement of a new room and new friends can be overwhelming, so we try to keep the conversations grounded and focused on one thing at a time. It’s a lot of work, but their input is priceless. It’s also okay if they’re not on board right away. I’ve learned that a lot of their resistance is just fear, and it’s our job to acknowledge those feelings and give them a chance to feel heard.
Trust Your Gut, But Know the Facts
Moving is a huge decision, and the reasons for it aren’t always clear-cut. When we first moved from Ohio, it was about finding a better life and new opportunities. This time, our “why” is more about putting down roots. We love the community we’ve found, and we want a house where we can grow. Before you commit, take a moment to ask yourself the big “why.” Are you running away from problems, or are you moving toward a better life? For us, moving from our apartment to a new house is about creating a stable, permanent home. You have to trust your instincts, but it’s also important to back them up with research. We revisited local support groups and schools, and ensured the new house was convenientlyclose to the things we love. A gut feeling is a great starting point, but the details are what make a new place feel like home.
Don’t Let the Budget Control You (but Don’t Ignore It, Either)
Money is always a concern, but when you’re moving, it can feel like a monster. This time, we’re not just paying for a move, we’re also dealing with all the costs that come with buying a house: the down payment, closing costs, and all the unexpected expenses. It’s easy to get overwhelmed. I found it helpful to be realistic and to find a balance. Instead of just picking the cheapest moving option, we looked for a removalist (movers) that offered the best value—someone who could do the heavy lifting without completely breaking the bank. Creating a simple budget plan helped us track our spending and make sure we had enough left over for the unexpected. When the kids need new shoes or a special trip to the new playground, it helps to know we’re prepared.
Put on Your Own Oxygen Mask First
I get it. You’re a mom, and you’re used to putting everyone else first. But moving is a marathon, not a sprint, and if you’re running on empty, you won’t make it to the finish line. This process is incredibly stressful, and your mental and physical health can take a nosedive if you’re not careful. For me, that meant finding little pockets of time to just breathe. Whether it was a quick walk alone, a cup of tea in a quiet room, or just listening to a podcast to disconnect for 20 minutes, I found that taking a few moments for myself made me a better mom for my kids. You can’t fill anyone else’s cup if your own is empty.
Moving is tough, but it’s also an incredible opportunity to reset and create a life that truly works for your family. What’s one thing you’re doing to make your next move a little easier?
Enjoy every minute being a mom and continue to inspire your kids!
