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The thrill of moving overseas can quickly turn into a scramble when those empty suitcases and piles of clothes stare you down. Packing procrastination strikes again! You’d rather do anything else – clean the kitchen, start a new series, or even organize the sock drawer. But luckily, this common procrastinating enemy can be defeated – here’s how to do it.
What Exactly Is Packing Procrastination?
Procrastination isn’t just a quirk – it’s a widespread habit. It represents the act of putting off or delaying doing a task until the last minute. Around 20% to 25% of people are chronic procrastinators, while a whopping 75% consider it a part of their personality.
We’re all guilty of getting sucked into endless social media scrolls or binge-watching the latest shows instead of tackling our impending to-do lists. Putting off tasks has almost become a daily ritual! When it’s time to move, this habit reaches a whole new level. Suddenly, the idea of organizing your closet or alphabetizing the bookshelf seems much more fun than actually packing clothes, books, or anything else, for that matter.
The sheer thought of sorting, boxing, and labeling can send anyone running for the hills (or, more realistically, the couch). This is procrastination in its finest form, turning an already challenging task of planning a move into a mountainous chore.
Why Is It Important to Power Through and Finish Packing?
Despite the temptation to delay, you’ll need to pull through and start packing to get it done. A last-minute move shouldn’t be anyone’s goal – you deserve to have a smooth transition and a stress-free experience. By tackling it head-on, you can stay organized, keep track of your belongings, and make the transition to a new home much more enjoyable. Plus, the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel afterward is unbeatable!
What Are the Reasons Behind Packing Procrastination?
Did you know that 41% of adults admit they procrastinate simply because they don’t feel like doing the task? It’s true! But just as there are plenty of reasons to move, there are numerous reasons why packing procrastination creeps into our lives, especially when faced with the mammoth task of moving abroad. Here are some of the most common culprits:
The thought of having to pack an entire house can feel like climbing Mount Everest. The sheer size of the job makes that comfy couch and remote control look way more inviting. Tackling one box at a time, though, can turn the whole ordeal into a series of manageable steps.
In today’s digital age, distractions are everywhere. Between social media notifications, streaming services, and that cat video your friend just sent you, it’s no wonder the packing list gets pushed aside. It’s far too easy to get lost in the internet rabbit hole only to emerge hours later with nothing packed. Setting specific goals and timing the breaks can help keep distractions at bay.
Believe it or not, perfectionism can be a major trigger for procrastination. The desire to pack perfectly, find the right-sized boxes, wrap items just so, and label everything meticulously can lead to delaying the task altogether. The key is to remind yourself that done is better than perfect. Your future self will thank you for getting the job done, even if it’s not flawless.
How to Start Packing for a Move? Work Some Decluttering Magic First
Now that we’ve uncovered the culprits, let’s tackle them head-on. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of stuff you have, downsizing can be a game-changer. Decluttering is like hitting the reset button that makes the packing schedule not so intimidating after all. Here’s a step-by-step guide to work some true decluttering magic:
- Give yourself plenty of time to sort through everything,
- Set small, achievable goals for each day or weekend,
- Break down the task by focusing on one room or area at a time,
- Sort the items into four piles – keep, donate, sell, and trash,
- Be honest with yourself about what you really need and use,
- If you haven’t used it in a year and it doesn’t hold sentimental value, it’s got to go,
- To stay motivated, take pictures of the progress, as seeing it can keep you going.
What to Do With the Stuff You Want to Get Rid Of?
Once you’ve decided what to part with, the next step is figuring out where it all goes. Donating items to local charities such as Goodwill can give your belongings a second life and help those in need.
Hosting a garage sale or selling items online can also be a great way to make some extra cash for those relocating on a low budget. And for everything else, make sure to recycle or responsibly dispose of items that are no longer usable. Whatever you end up doing, know that decluttering is the oldest trick in the book when it comes to packing efficiently.
Really Hate Packing From the Bottom of Your Soul? An Overseas Moving Company Can Always Help
Let’s face it – sometimes, the biggest hurdle is simply not wanting to do it. You’d rather do anything else, and we mean anything. If packing for a move makes you want to pull your hair out, don’t worry; there’s an easy solution – bringing in the pros.
The beauty of hiring professional movers such as I Love International Moving doesn’t stop at just shipping overseas. Besides international moving services, you can opt for full packing assistance and leave the entire process to the experts. Imagine sitting back, sipping a coffee, while a team of experts meticulously packs up your belongings. From the tiniest fragile items to bulky furniture, they’ve got it all covered.
Your Prized Ride Can Also Join the Shipping Overseas Adventure
Did you know that an overseas shipping company can take care of your four-wheeler, too? That’s right! Your prized ride can join the journey, making the transition to a new country that much smoother.
It can give you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or the daily commute, having your four-wheeler can help you settle in and feel at home much faster. Plus, booking overseas vehicle shipping is simply one less thing to worry about.
Gather the Right Materials to Get the Show on the Road
Full professional services come with all the packaging materials you could ever need. However, if you’re determined to handle at least some of it, despite the procrastination, it’s time to gather your supplies. For those that haven’t done that already, now’s the perfect time to stock up on everything necessary:
- Various sizes of sturdy boxes,
- Bubble wrap and packing paper,
- Lots of duct tape,
- Markers and labels,
- Scissors and box cutters.
Set up a “No-Excuses” Packaging Station
Having all of the packaging materials and a dedicated space for wrapping can turn a chaotic process into a well-oiled machine. Plus, it’s harder to procrastinate when everything is right in front of you. Think of the packaging station as a command center, channel your inner general, and conquer this task like the hero you are!
A Good Packing Plan Can Get You Through the Whole Ordeal
Above all else, having a solid plan will be your secret weapon against chaos. It’s the backbone of an efficient move and helps you stay organized and on track. Without it, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and fall into the trap of procrastination.
To create a foolproof plan, start by breaking the task into smaller, daily goals. This allows you to make steady progress without burning out. Prioritize rooms or categories and set specific deadlines for each. Don’t forget to schedule breaks to recharge and reward yourself for completing tasks. With a clear plan and a steady pace, you’ll be packed up and ready to go in no time.
Ticking Things off on a To-Do List Can Feel So Nice
Surveys show that around 80% of people still prefer to write down their lists and tick them off with pen and paper. And really, is there anything more satisfying than this? Creating a detailed relocation checklist not only keeps you organized but also provides a little dopamine boost every time you tick something off. It’s also a great way to visually track your progress and stay motivated.
It’s All About Finding Different Ways to Keep Yourself Motivated
As we’ve already mentioned, one great way to keep yourself going is by setting small, achievable goals and rewarding yourself when you meet them. Packed a box? Treat yourself to a snack. Finished a room? Time for an episode of your favorite show. These little rewards can make the whole ordeal feel like a series of fun challenges. After all, moving internationally should be an exciting chapter in your life.
Another motivation booster is to mix things up. Listen to upbeat music or an engaging podcast while you pack. Invite a friend over to help and make it a social event. You could even turn it into a game – race against the clock to see how much you can pack in 30 minutes. At the end of the day, a motivated mind is a productive one!
Procrastination Is the Only Thing Keeping You Away From Your Next Chapter
With a bit of planning, some decluttering magic, and the right motivation, you can turn the whole ordeal into a manageable and even enjoyable process. No more staring at empty boxes or getting lost in endless social media scrolls. Remember, every item you pack is a step closer to your new adventure abroad. Who knew it could be this satisfying?
If the thought still makes you want to crawl under the covers, it might be time to get in touch with an international moving company. They can handle the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to. Don’t let procrastination hold you back – contact I Love International Moving today, and let’s get your move started the right way. Your new life is waiting!
