Moving to A New City? 6 Tips to Make Your Transition Easier
Moving
Need a little help in the relocation department? We get it. Whether you’re moving to a new city or just to a new side of town, getting settled in can be a little nerve-racking. Here are 6 tips to get acquainted with your new neighborhood and make some new friends in the process.
1. Play Tourist
Treat it as an adventure and act like a tourist. Map out all your city the old-fashioned way: make a list of all the places you think you’ll need to get to know your new city and pin it on a map. Relocate the necessities: from the post office and local parks to the nearest grocery store, schools and the gym, search all your new hot spots and don’t be afraid to ask around for advice. Go explore your new town!
2. Find New Favorite Local Hot Spots
We’re not referring to Wi-Fi hot spots, here. We’re talking about favorite places like coffee shops, you know, those “where-everybody-knows-your-name” spots. One of the hardest parts of moving (besides packing) is leaving your community. Now, it’s time to find your new normal. So, take a break from your worries, get out and go find some favorites. Soon, your barista will remember your name and order.
3. Hang Out with New Coworkers
New job? Don’t turn down any invitations you get. Just say yes…to work outings. It doesn’t matter if you live for karaoke night or just go for the appetizers, you’ll get to bond with new co-workers (which will make work a lot more comfortable) and make some new friends. Plus, you’ll learn about new hot spots in town* (refer to number 2).
4. Volunteer
Anyone who is going to give up their personal time to volunteer is bound to have a good heart. When you’re new in town, who better to hang out with than nice neighbors? Put in some time at the youth group, soup kitchen or spend time at an animal shelter. You’ll make a difference in someone else’s life and new friends in the process. Nothing better than that!
5. Continue Your Hobbies or Take up a New One!
Looking for the easiest way to meet new people with similar interests as you? Get out and get active with your favorite hobbies or take up a new one. If you like to read, go get a library card. Are you religious? Then join a church group. If you have little ones at home, search Facebook groups for a new mom’s group. Love CrossFit, go find a box. Anything that gets you out of the house and social is going to make you feel at home.
Don’t be afraid to try something new… you may discover an interest you never knew you had.
6. Don’t Stress
Moving to a new city can feel overwhelming and scary at times. But, if you get out and get into your new community, you’ll be sure to feel at home in no time.
A new move is also an opportunity for a fresh start. Now is a great time to reinvent yourself and fulfill that dream you’ve been putting off. Your moving boxes will always be there waiting for you at home to unpack… take time to enjoy the exploration phase of your new move.