Are you a procrastinator? Do you usually put off almost everything until the absolute last minute — including your move? Now that the movers are scheduled, you might start to stress about the big day. If you're a persistent procrastinator who needs to move in the next few weeks, take a look at the ways to keep yourself on schedule.



Do Use a Visible Visual Schedule

ou can easily forget about dates, times, and activities that you enter into your phone's note app or write down in a notebook. If out of sight out of mind describes your approach, create a visible visual. While this strategy won't completely eliminate all procrastination, this may make it harder to put off move-related tasks.

To make the most of this procrastination-busting option, start with a large piece of poster paper — the bigger the better. Make a list or design a calendar-style visual that is easy for everyone in your household to read.

Choose specific dates for each moving task. These could include hiring a mover, confirming the move date with the mover, shopping for moving materials, packing, decluttering, or creating a moving inventory. Write each activity and its matching target date on the poster paper in a different color marker. A color-coded system will make it easier to see the different activities and due or do-by dates.

Don't Try to Do Everything at One Time

Does the thought of packing an entire household full of furniture, toys, clothes, kitchen items, knickknacks, photos, and everything else you own seem overwhelming? You aren't alone. The packing process can overwhelm anyone — even if they aren't a procrastinator by nature. 

If you're tempted to wait until the last minute to pack, start early and take one step at a time. Instead of one day filled with boxes, bins, bags, and bubble wrap, set aside time each day or every few days to pack as you go. You can mark this time on your moving calendar or list, blocking out a half hour or an hour on specific dates.

Do Learn More About Why You Procrastinate

Procrastination often happens for a reason. The more you know about this reason, the better equipped you are to overcome avoidance and other issues that go along with procrastination. Not only can a new sense of self-awareness help you to streamline your move, but it can also help you in life. 

Whether you always procrastinate or you feel the procrastination started with this move, think about why you're dragging your feet. Are you nervous about the move? Do life changes make you extremely uncomfortable? Do you maybe just have too much on your plate right now? If you can't narrow down the reasons behind your persistent procrastination, talk to someone who knows you well such as a family member, spouse, or close friend.

Don't Let a Lack of Motivation Get in the Way

Lack of motivation can increase the likelihood that you'll procrastinate during this move. Most people aren't overjoyed to declutter, wrap fragile dishware, or stack their belongings in boxes or bins. But this doesn't mean you should let the tasks associated with moving zap your motivation.

Focus on the end product of this move — your new home. Hang a photo of your new house or visualize yourself in your new property. This can create a feeling of excitement that motivates you to start the packing and moving processes.

Do Get as Much Help as Possible

If your procrastination comes from stress, anxiety, or feeling like you're overwhelmed by this move, ask for or hire help. Friends and family members can help with the packing process and some of the general prep. Hire an experienced moving contractor to handle move-day lifting, carrying, and transportation. 

Do you need extra help with your move? Contact Coffee's Moving and Storage for more information.