Many logistical concerns are involved in a permanent change of station (PCS). While knowing how you’ll get to your new home and other specifics is key, the emotional toll of military moves can be just as critical. Saying goodbye to friends and familiar places is difficult, despite being an expected and common part of military family life. Fortunately, some simple steps can transform your new house into a beloved home after a PCS.
Start With the Essentials That Bring Comfort
Setting up important furniture should be one of the first things on your to-do list. Not only can these larger items make the space come together, but they can also be an important aspect of making your new home functional.
Some people take the opportunity to update their home furnishings to suit the new space. You don’t need a sizable budget to undertake a whole-home renovation. Pick just a few key elements, such as a favorite blanket on a comfortable chair, to create a space that feels like home.
Don’t forget to incorporate different textures, especially those that are cozy. Soft blankets and pillows provide comfort from the moment you move in. Candles or room spray can also create an inviting and familiar environment.
Surround Yourself With the Familiar
If you feel out of your element after a PCS, personal touches are a great way to make the space feel familiar. Photos and mementos will literally surround you with the people and things that are important to you. Consider setting up a special space to retreat to when you feel overwhelmed by all the tasks you need to complete to adjust to a new home.
Sentimental items can help you start to see your new house as your actual home, whether you plan to stay there for a few months, a few years, or forever. It can be tempting to go through everything and get organized, but don’t overlook the power of starting with things that make you feel like your home is somewhere special for you to retreat to at the end of each day.
Create Spaces That Invite Relaxation
You don’t need to have everything put away immediately, but create a plan to tackle unpacking that makes sense for your needs. You might move boxes out of the main living spaces to tackle them as needed and clear up space to move around your new home without constantly tripping over boxes. If you prefer more detailed planning, go room by room to unpack boxes and put things away.
If there are items you know you’ll need right away, label those boxes as ‘urgent’ during the packing process. These can include clothing, towels, sheets, and other essentials needed for work and school. Maybe having your pots and pans unpacked quickly will help you feel at home. This hack requires some advanced planning during the packing process, but it is a great way to quickly acclimate to your new home.
Don’t forget to add special touches to make your new home truly special. Setting up lighting can make a big difference between a utilitarian space and an inviting home. Set up music playlists to listen to your favorites as you unpack. Finally, grab some favorite snacks or meals to enjoy as you make progress.
Build Connection Through Routine and Memory-Making
As you unpack, take time to enjoy the experience as well. Even if boxes are still around your home, take a break to have a family movie night or game night with new neighbors. Even sharing a simple meal can be a great way to decompress. Make time to enjoy your space and family each day, creating memories as you go. Don’t forget to document the experience with photos or written messages that you can look back on later.
Another fun way to settle into your new home is to actually get outside of it. Go for a walk around your neighborhood to see what amenities, such as playgrounds or walking trails, are nearby. You can also look into on-base activities through the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation offices and libraries. You might even meet a new neighbor and a future lifelong friend.
Care for Yourself While You Settle In
Even if you unpack boxes quickly, you might end up sick and tired by the end, and it’ll be difficult to enjoy your new home. Instead of powering through everything right away, give yourself time to rest, eat healthy meals, and take care of yourself. Set a reasonable bedtime for yourself and let the unpacking wait while you get sleep.
Turning your new house into your ideal home doesn’t have to happen overnight. In fact, it can be a great idea to let yourself live in the home for a few weeks or even months to figure out the best place for each of your belongings. This is a gradual process that is best accomplished over time, taking opportunities for rest and enjoyment along the way.
Conclusion
Making a new home every few years is a common and inevitable part of military life for most military families. But what many learn early on in the process is that home is about creating spaces where you feel comfortable and cared for, not just hanging curtains in the just the right way or getting boxes unpacked quickly. Look for ways to create a space that makes you feel cozy, where you can rest and rejuvenate at the end of a long day. Take advantage of familiar routines and special belongings to add a personal touch to your new space.
Whether you’re preparing for a PCS or settling into a new home, every move is a fun opportunity for a new adventure.
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FAQs
What’s the Best Way To Personalize a Rental or Base Housing?
In most cases, you can’t paint or make other alterations to a rental or base housing. Fortunately, there are fun ways to make the space your own. Use family photos, artwork that expresses your style, and furniture that suits your lifestyle. Some temporary options, such as removable wallpaper, can be bolder, but always double-check that these won’t cause problems when moving out.
Small touches can also go a long way. Add a potted plant to liven up your space. Set up lamps that allow you to alter the lighting at different times of the day. Candles and diffusers can put off relaxing scents.
How Long Does It Usually Take To Feel at Home After a Move?
The process of feeling at home after you PCS differs from person to person and even from move to move. Establishing routines early on can help you feel more in control of your day, even if you’re still settling into your new surroundings.
It can also help to put down roots in your new community. Look for organizations that cater to your interests, join a neighborhood gym, or even go for a walk to meet your new neighbors. One of the best ways to feel at home is to create a home that fills your life with meanin