Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Moving: Insights Backed by Data
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Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Moving: Insights Backed by Data

May 15, 2024

 

25% of Americans believe moving to be more stressful than landing a plane in an emergency.One in four Americans consider moving to be a more stressful endeavor than landing a plane in an emergency

Moving. It's a word that conjures up a whirlwind of emotions. Excitement, anxiety, hope, dread - it's all there, swirling around like a storm in your mind. And guess what? You're not alone. In fact, one in four Americans considers moving to be more stressful than landing a plane in an emergency. Yep, you read that right. Talk about pressure!

 

Respondents rated moving as more overwhelming than:21% running for president, 27% losing a job, and 23% switching careers

Respondents rated moving as more overwhelming than: 21% running for president, 27% losing a job, and 23% switching careers.

Feeling the Weight of Change:

Imagine this: the stress of losing a job, switching careers, or even contemplating a run for president. Now, amp it up. That's what moving feels like for many. It's overwhelming, daunting, and downright exhausting. But why do we put ourselves through it? Well, according to recent studies, the top reason for moving is to embark on a new phase in life. Whether it's chasing better opportunities, living closer to family, or simply seeking a fresh start where nobody knows your name, the reasons are as varied as the people making the move.

Top reasons for movingTop reasons for moving: 19% to create a fresh start, 23% to get outside of their comfort zone, 27% to live closer to family, 31% wanting to access better opportunities, and 37% to start a new phase in life.

Top reasons for moving: 19% to create a fresh start, 23% to get outside of their comfort zone, 27% to live closer to family, 31% wanting to access better opportunities, and 37% to start a new phase in life.


The Emotional Rollercoaster:

As you pack up your life into boxes and say goodbye to the familiar, emotions run high. Anxiety and excitement vie for dominance, while joy and hope peek through the cracks. But here's the kicker - amidst all the chaos, there's a glimmer of relief. It's the relief of finally moving on to a better stage in life, of putting distance between yourself and toxic environments or toxic people.
 

Emotions felt during the moving processEmotions felt during the moving process: 25% joy, 32% hope, 21% dread, 52% excitement, and 53% anxiety.


Emotions felt during the moving process: 25% joy, 32% hope, 21% dread, 52% excitement, and 53% anxiety.

The Logistics Nightmare:

But let's talk logistics. Moving day is no picnic. The average American clocks a 16-hour day, with only two rest breaks along the way. And don't even get me started on the packing. The average person gets rid of a whopping 36% of their possessions, grappling with anxiety about having too much stuff and not enough help to move. It's enough to make anyone worry about having a nervous breakdown!

36% is the amount of possessions the average person gets rid of prior to their move.The average American clocked a 16-hour day and only took two rest breaks during their most recent move. Getting rid of donations on moving day.Resting on moving day.

 

36% is the amount of possessions the average person gets rid of prior to their move. | The average American clocked a 16-hour day and only took two rest breaks during their most recent move. 

Finding Your Silver Lining:

So, how do you navigate this emotional minefield? Well, here are a few tips from those who've been there, done that: set aside more time than you think you'll need, bid farewell to clutter and unused belongings, ask for help from friends and family, and hey, why not consider hiring a moving service?
 

Respondent tips for the best possible moving experience43% recommend setting aside more time than you think you'll need to pack up.43% recommend saying goodbye to clutter and unused belongings.37% recommend asking for help from friends and family.23% recommend hiring a moving service.

Respondent tips for the best possible moving experience: 

  • 43% recommend setting aside more time than you think you'll need to pack up. 
  • 43% recommend saying goodbye to clutter and unused belongings. 
  • 37% recommend asking for help from friends and family. 
  • 23% recommend hiring a moving service.

Our Helping Hand:

And speaking of moving services, that's where we come in. At College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving, we understand the stress and strain of moving day like no other. Our mission is simple: to make your move as stress-free as possible. Whether you need help packing, loading, or decluttering, we've got you covered. So why not let us shoulder some of the burden? After all, in the midst of all the chaos, you deserve a little peace of mind.

Moving may be stressful, but it's also an opportunity for growth, renewal, and yes, even a little excitement. So take a deep breath, roll up your sleeves, and remember - you've got this. And if you ever need a helping hand along the way, we're here for you. Happy moving!

Survey methodology:

This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 Americans who have moved in the last five years was commissioned by College HUNKS between Apr. 19 and Apr. 30, 2024. It was conducted by market research company Talker Research, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society (MRS) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).