I think that everyone should make at least one big move in their lifetime. It pushes you outside of your comfort zone, forces you to grow as a person, and allows you to discover a different part of the world. It can also make you want to turn into a recluse who stays home every night with just a few close friends. You know, like Monica, Rachel, and Phoebe. But as enticing as staying home with Netflix sounds, I’m afraid it’s not going to help you feel at home in your new city. Fortunately, after three big moves of my own, I have some tips that will!
Say Yes!
Don’t turn down any opportunities that come your way. Maybe you don’t like bowling or never understood what was so special about sushi (raises hand). Go anyway! It’s important to get out there, connect with people, and start making memories in your new city.
Explore on Your Own
Don’t wait to be invited out by someone to start exploring. In fact, I recommend exploring on your own because it forces you to be independent and learn your way around. I like to do a combination of tourist and local activities. A quick Google search will lead you to some key attractions that will help you learn about the history and culture of your new area. You can also start scouting out your new favorite spots like a cozy coffee shop, a gym, your piece of floor at a yoga studio, a dog park (even if you don’t have a dog), or a bar stool at a nearby watering hole.
Find a Doctor (and other service providers)
I always feel better knowing that I have someone I can go to if an emergency arises. So, I suggest finding a new hairdresser first! OK, and maybe a doctor, a dentist, a dry cleaner, and someone you can trust with your bikini line. It’s important to be prepared for every situation and you’ll feel more established in your new city having all of those things lined up.
Start a New Hobby
Treat your move as an opportunity to try something new. You can learn a language, volunteer, take singing lessons since you’ve always had a hunch you’re the next Adele, sign up for a sports league, or become a crazy sports fan. You’ll probably end up meeting people with common interests and if not, you’re still growing as a person and maybe other people just don’t get you anymore because you’re a pop star now.
Fight the Urge to Go Home
Naturally, it’s going to take some time to acclimate to your new city and at times, you’re going to want to run home. But resist! You’re never going to feel at home in a new city if you leave every weekend. I try to avoid leaving a new city until I’ve established a good routine and it feels normal to be there.
Stay in touch with your friends and family.
I might have just suggested that you stay away from home for a while, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t stay in touch with your friends and family. It’s nice to have a support system and they’ll be happy to hear from you too. Not to mention, talking to your friends will remind you that you’re a likable person who people should want to hang out with. I mean, my friends don’t just like me because we’ve known each other our whole lives and we were forced to bond in the flute section for 6 years, right?
Of course, the most important thing you can do is just relax and enjoy your new adventure. It’s an exciting time!
Have you ever made a big move? What’s something that helped you settle into your new city?