6 Ways to Embrace Moving to a New City
Moving is never easy, but it can change your life. Maybe you’re moving to a new city because you just purchased your first home (congrats!) or accepted a new job offer or promotion (well done!) or you’re ready to take the new step in your relationship or you need a fresh start. All are important causes for celebration and frequently necessitate moving. In most cases, the positive benefits of a change in pace far outweigh any initial feelings of negativity. Moving opens us up to new experiences, new opportunities, and new relationships. It turns our routines upside down and challenges us to be creative, patient, adaptive, and accepting. Most importantly, the newness helps us grow. When we change our surroundings, we abandon the familiar, stagnant, and boring. We develop new habits, new friendships, and new memories that can change our perspectives and enhance our lives.
That being said, it can take weeks or even months to feel completely comfortable in a new environment. Although it may feel out of your control at first, remember that you have control over your attitude and your attitude will largely determine how you will feel as the time passes. An attitude of positivity and patience will allow for a much smoother transition than one filled with worry and doubt. It’s ok to be afraid! Just remember to use the fear as fuel to power your confidence and propel yourself forward.
Here are 6 ways to embrace moving to a new city (and have fun while doing it!):
1. Go online to find local events
Plan ahead by searching for events online in your new city before going out. You can read reviews, map out the locations, and check if there are any special events or promotions. Additionally, many social event websites frequently offer special deals for wine tastings, fitness classes, city tours, etc. These websites also commonly offer packages for fitness classes, so you can try a few classes at a new studio or gym before committing to becoming a member. Without a doubt, there are plenty of things to do by yourself, with a date, with friends, or with family in a new city if you know where to look!
Best places to find local events:
2. Get out and explore
Now is the perfect time to go for a walk. The changing leaves and crisp autumn air often invoke a sense of nostalgia, while the light exercise offers numerous health and fitness benefits. Walking is a great way to casually explore your new home. Map out grocery stores, markets, pharmacies, and hospitals. If you prefer to travel by car, driving around your new neighborhood and exploring the areas near it can help you become more comfortable with your new surroundings. While driving around, make sure to take note of the local restaurants, shops, museums, and businesses. Some of them will become your new favorites!
Where to eat, shop, and visit:
3. Get to know your new neighbors
Gone are the days of apple pie introductions. No matter where you live, it’s always a good idea to get to know your neighbors. You don’t have to knock on their door and introduce yourself. In fact, casual introductions are often better received. Next time you see an unfamiliar face while you’re coming home or getting your mail, introduce yourself. And don’t forget a friendly wave or “hello” if you’ve been introduced!
Comparatively, if you’re on the opposite end, ie. introducing yourself to a new neighbor in town, a pretty “Welcome to the Neighborhood!” card with a list of your favorite places in town and a bottle of champagne can mean the world to someone who may be trying to adjust after moving to a new city.
4. Get involved/volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and make a difference after moving to a new city. Choose local organizations that you connect with and reach out to get started. As a volunteer, the amount of time you spend volunteering is up to you. For example, you could help provide meals to families, deliver food to the homeless, mentor, tutor, spend time with the elderly, planting trees, etc. When you volunteer, everything you do, no matter how small it may seem, makes a difference in the life of someone else.
Lend a hand:
- http://www.volunteermatch.org/volunteers/
- https://www.unitedway.org/get-involved/volunteer
- https://www.yscchampions.org/
5. Embrace discomfort and unfamiliarity
Be confident in yourself and your new surroundings. It might feel uncomfortable at first while you’re figuring out where everything is and establishing a new routine. Try your best to be patient and give yourself time to accumulate. Although it can vary, it may take a few weeks or months before you are comfortable in your new space. Staying positive and embracing the discomfort and unfamiliarity of new surroundings can make for a smoother transition.
6. Stay connected with friends and family
Even if you’re making a big life change and moving to a new city by yourself, you’re never alone. Remember to call on your most supportive group of family and friends if you’re feeling lonely or need to vent. Find ways to keep in touch through Facebook, email, text messaging, etc. Reach out to old friends, co-workers, and classmates who live in your new city. If you moved to a new place with your family, check in regularly with your spouse and children. Moving is never easy, but open, honest communication and kindness can go a long way in making the transition a lot easier for everyone.
