5 effective methods to reduce packing anxiety

I’ve just unzipped my packed bag for the umpteenth time now to make sure I’m not forgetting anything. I’m an anxious packer—when packing for a trip, I check my bag more than twice to ensure that I’m not leaving anything behind. I don’t just double-check, I check repeatedly within five-second intervals. 

I had to whip out my help list so that I don’t break my bag’s zip. I have curated a few things that can help me when I feel anxious about leaving something important behind when packing. 

Like me, you probably experience this. Try these and see if they help. 

1. I make a list:

   Before I pack, I make a checklist of things that I need during the trip. I also use this same checklist to pack the things that I unpacked during the trip. 

   While writing this, I just remembered to check that I actually packed my wig. 

2. Put all in a place method:

   This involves putting every item required on a plain surface, could be your bed. When you’re done packing, if there’s nothing left on the surface then you can be sure that you’ve packed everything. 

3. Highlight the most important:

   For every time you want to go out, some things are essential. Occasionally, you are probably really flustered and would forget something, you’re only human. This is why I always confirm if my essentials are packed. Wallet? Check. Debit card? Check. House key? Check. Phone? Check check.

4. A little nonchalance:

   Sometimes you just can’t win. Your monkey mind refuses to retain any information about what you’ve packed. You packed that red purse, you saw it and felt it, yet you go to unzip your bag, just to confirm. Once I’ve confirmed my essentials, I just ‘lock up’: what will be will be.

5. Pack light:

   Honestly, you really just have to pack light sometimes. It’s easy to account for less items. If all methods don’t work, just pack light!

    

   Until later, 

   Your fellow anxious packer