There is no doubt that relocating to a new town, city, county or even country can be a big upheaval – and as with any home move, lots of unexpected events can pop up along the way. You know what they say: moving into a new home can be one of life’s most stressful events! But it doesn’t need to be that way, it can be very empowering and an exciting new chapter for you.
The best possible way to ensure you make a success of your relocation without too much strain is to prepare. Getting a feel for your new community will help you settle in and start enjoying your new home as soon as possible.
Get Googling
Home comforts don’t just need to be inside. Make sure you know where the local amenities are that mean the most to you. Like a paper and a fresh loaf of bread in the morning? Find the nearest convenience store. Enjoy a drink on a Friday night? Track down the local pub or bar. Look up details on the local public transport infrastructure! You’ll need to know how to get about, especially if you don’t have a car. It’s also advisable to find out where the local doctors’ surgery is along with the dentist and hospital.
If you have children, then make sure you check out the local schools and research their Ofsted ratings and reports. These can be found on the Ofsted website. If you’re worried about crime then make sure you check out the local crime statistics on the police.uk website.
Various local review sites now exist for all kinds of facilities and whilst it’s always wise to take these reviews with a pinch of salt, you can find lots of info on local schools, restaurants and other facilities through others’ experiences documented online.
Many places have a local support network for newbies to the area. Find out if your new area has one and contact them. They are always a good source of support and information on the local area.
Socialise on social media
Most towns and cities have local interest groups on Facebook and even if you’re not in need of specific advice or answers just yet, they can give a good feel for what’s happening in the area. Sign up to any you see and take some time to read through the posts to gain a better understanding of what’s on, who’s up to what and what you may like to involve yourself in.
Journal the journey
Many people find it helpful to document their moves, home refurbishment or redecoration and new adventures on social media. Why not set up a new Pinterest account to keep track of your progress through the Boards and help keep track of all your renovation and decorating ideas. You don’t need to make it public if you’d prefer not to, but it’s nice to be able to look back and see just how far you’ve come.
Combating homesickness
Homesickness is a natural occurrence and we will all experience it when we move to varying degrees. This can make the move harder for you but there are some simple tricks to keep it to a minimum:
Keeping in contact with everyone
They will be missing you too, and it’s natural to want to check in. But take care not to call home too often – or you’ll find yourself becoming consumed by the life you could be living and missing out on building a life in your new home. Instead of calling every day at a set time, Video chat twice a week from different places and show those at the other end what you’re up to. They’ll be pleased to see you’re having new experiences!
Distract yourself
Lots of classes and courses offer free taster sessions and make for a great way to meet new people in a new place. If you already have a hobby or sport you enjoy, you can find your nearest opportunity to do it again, or if you don’t, use the move as a chance to try lots of new things! Why not introduce yourself to your new neighbours and make new friends this will certainly keep your mind focused on your new life.
Keep Busy
Keep yourself busy during those first few months to keep from dwelling on things. Get all your boxes unpacked and put away, start putting up your photos or pictures to make your new house feel more like home.
Give yourself time
It will take time to settle in to your new town or city. Don’t be too hard on yourself and be patient. It takes time to get used to your new routines, surroundings and your new home.
Moving to a new location can be daunting but it can be a very rewarding and satisfying. By making sure you research the area and by joining in with your new community you will make the transition a lot easier.
