You're finally in your new home after the madness of moving day. Now it's time to settle in, personalise your new space, and leave behind the clutter (and habits) that no longer serve you.
Arrival day in a new home can be a little chaotic, but that doesn't have to set the tone for how you want to live in the space. It's important to take a deep breath and not dive into unpacking, so you can unwind and start the next day with a clear head.
Here are some thoughtful, low-stress actions to help enjoy the first night in a new home, even if you're surrounded by boxes.
Unwind from a rigorous day by making the evening as low-key and relaxing as possible. Set up one small area near the kitchen or living room with a lamp and some cushions. It doesn't have to be perfect, just comfortable enough to relax in.
Maybe play some music if that helps you relax, then think about your intentions for the space - what you want it to feel like and how you want to live in it.
Skip cooking and treat yourself to a takeaway meal from a new local restaurant. You can make a picnic out of it with a blanket in the space you set up earlier. This is an especially good option if your dining table isn't set up or there are boxes all over it.
Don't go overboard with the unpacking on your first night. It'll take longer than you expect, so just focus on what you need for the night: bedding, toiletries, towels, change of clothes, charging cables and a few kitchen items.
The rest can wait. As you'll see in our next section, there might be some benefit to unpacking slowly.
We get it - you've got a lot to unpack and you're likely dreading the process. With a strategic approach, however, it can be smooth and even satisfying.
Here's a breakdown of smart unpacking tips to help you settle in with intention.
You've unpacked the absolute essentials, so stick to those areas first - kitchen (probably the most challenging to set up!), bathroom and bedroom. Once those are done, tackle one room at a time to avoid overwhelm and confusion.
Aiming for functionality rather than perfection is a helpful approach. This is because your plan for how a room works may change over time, so by sticking to the basics and unpacking the items that mean the most first, you'll alleviate the need to rework and move lots of objects while you're feeling things out.
Note: unpacking will be easier if you label boxes by room, priority, and have a rough idea of where furniture and essentials might go.
Just because it's been packed, it doesn't mean it's needed. You might own things that looked great in your old home, but they just don't feel right in the new space. If this happens, see it as a positive, and consider donating or storing those items.
While decluttering, you'll likely start reconsidering storage and functionality. It might be as simple as a new way to display your condiments, or a completely new system for your wardrobe.
Finally, there won't be a better time to clean surfaces than when they're entirely bare. Wipe down shelves, drawers, and benches before putting things away.
Hopefully you're now inspired to make unpacking a less daunting exercise, but the time will be more enjoyable with some music or catching up on a podcast. Remember to also take a break and celebrate the sorting of each room as you go along. It's not a race, it's a process!
As you're starting to settle in, you'll likely have noticed that a new home has led to other changes in your routine or habits. Maybe you've simplified things or are living more intentionally? Either way, this should be embraced.
Personalising your new home with photos, art and plants is one of the most enjoyable parts of moving in. When doing this, it's also a great time to define how you want to use each space around your home.
Think special places for rest, creativity or entertaining friends. You could even go a step further by introducing a no-shoes zone, reading space, and digital-free areas that you previously wouldn't have considered.
Use the move as a cue to reframe habits that you feel aren't serving you. This could be walking instead of driving because you live in a more scenic area, or it could be cooking more meals at home because you're so happy with your new kitchen.
If you're finding it hard to establish new habits, try 'habit stacking' by pairing one new habit with an existing one. For example, after you finish your routine walk, sit in your new space and spend ten minutes meditating.
A home extends beyond your walls when you feel part of the community. There's no rush to integrate yourself, but you might just enjoy using some time to walk around, finding parks, shops and local cafes for a morning coffee.
Becoming a regular is a great way to spark conversation without feeling overbearing. When it comes to your local area, even a smile builds a level of connection.
We know how much anxiety and stress moving can cause. Don't let those feelings hang around once you've moved into your new address - enjoy the process by slowing down and making some intentional changes.
* One full business day's notice required. Terms and conditions apply.
* One full business day's notice required. You must ensure there is clear and safe meter access. To have power reconnected, the mains switch must be in the 'off' position and all other safety requirements specified during our online moving process must be met. If you're with another energy provider at your current property, you'll need to contact them to organise the disconnection of energy and close your account.
# T&Cs and eligibility criteria apply. Offer subject to availability. Alinta Energy customers can receive up to 4 free hours of moving services from Adlam Transport per 12 month period from your last free move. For more than 4 hours, or on days when the moving truck is not available, a discounted rate will be payable by the customer. Excludes optional extra services offered by Adlam, such as insurance. Only one free move is available per day during weekdays. The moving services will not be available in the event that Adlam Transport is unable to operate due to any reason whatsoever. Full T&Cs available here.
