The excitement is building. Your dream kitchen is about to come to fruition. You checked the list twice, made negotiations on payment and signed off on everything. The demolition begins and suddenly you want to back out of the process. Brace yourself to push forward with tips that will keep you calm and focus on the horizon.

Avoid unnecessary stress and move your belongings out of the kitchen prior to demolition

Pack it all in boxes and move it to another place in the house. That includes food as well as dishes, kitchen items and kitchen appliances. Make sure you label everything as it will make a big difference once you are ready to move into your new kitchen.

Choose another space in the house to serve as the kitchen

You’re going to need it during demolition and renovation. Look through all the boxes to see which items isn’t going back to the soon-to-be-finished kitchen. Forget the “rainy day” excuses and throw out anything you never used or don’t like. Make sure there’s an extra sink for clean up; the bathroom sink is the very, very last resort! Use this opportunity to cook meals in advance to heat in the microwave.

Understand the step-by-step process

There is a schedule that contractors use and it’s important that you know what that schedule is. It will definitely give you an idea of what each step consists of and how long it will take for it to be completed. Knowledge is power. The more you know the better you will feel. Specific requests like time of day, what days to work and special events should be clear upfront before demolition.

Remain positive

Contractors will not be on your property forever. There is a light at the end of the tunnel. Treat them with respect and remain positive. This will help the contractor do his or her job correctly and in the shortest amount of time. This will help you feel better because your investment will pay off. Often homeowners are so concerned with their kitchen that nothing else matters. Their stress level says it all. Take time to take care of yourself and your belongings during this exciting period. You’ll have a brand new kitchen when it’s all said and done. Make sure you enjoy life so you can see it and use it for a very long time.