Travel and living

Starting again: How to cope with the big city move

Some people thrive on it, while others couldn’t think of anything worse. For whatever reason, relocations can happen, and today’s post is just how you handle it.

We’re not going to take the time to speculate about the reasons behind your move; they are simply too few and far between. Instead, let’s just jump into some quick tips to make the whole moving process easier – and help you to settle into your new surroundings.

The elusive job search

For some of you, this first point will be irrelevant. After all, some of you might have moved to your new city just so you can start a new job.

However, if you don’t fall into this category, it’s time to read on. Going on a job hunt is a huge stress in itself and in some industries, it can take months to get anywhere. This is why we would advise some form of temporary work.

For example, if you are relocating to the capital, take a look for a temporary job in the city. Sure, it might not be in your field, but it can at least get you out of the house, allow you to meet new people and of course buy you a bit of time. You can then accept the “right” permanent job, rather than accept the first that you come across.

The friend-factor

We touched upon it in the previous paragraph; but getting out and about and meeting new people is one of the first things you should look at.

Again, nowadays this has been made easier than ever before. The internet has facilitated this somewhat, but even visiting various clubs and meet-up events can help you along your way.

At this point we should probably make you aware that it’s unlikely you will find your “best friends” in the first few days. Try not to compare to the friends you have left behind, this is only going to lead to disappointment during the early stages and discourage you from going out.

Explore, explore, explore

When it comes to moving to a new city, TripAdvisor just isn’t an option. You need to learn to live like a local, and the only way to do this is to get out and walk around. You might get the odd tip from someone you meet, but try and find things out for yourself. By doing this, you’ll start to creep out of your comfort zone and those unfamiliar surrounds will come, well, familiar over time.

Find your area of beauty

Following on from the previous point, try and find an area of beauty in your new surroundings. For some of you, it might be botanical gardens. For others, it might be a coffee shop or bar. You need to keep collecting these “nuggets”; finding the places that you really like and are going to make you love the city you are starting your life in. It can be easy, especially when everything is so out of sorts, to instantly dislike everything about your new life. By finding these favourite places, it doesn’t have to be like this.

Make the most of your home

So far, the advice has been all about getting out there and making the most of your new life. Well, while this is a big part of moving to a new city, let’s not forget that it’s not the be all and end all.

In other words, you are still going to spend large amounts of time in your home. Sometimes this will be alone, and on other occasions it might be with the new groups you are forming.

The point we are trying to make is that this home needs to be your sanctuary. There will be times where you are fed up of your new life, and just want to retreat to a warm, familiar place. Make an effort to form your “nest”. This is your space and while the rest of the city might not feel familiar, you can certainly make sure that your home does.

Be aware of your emotions

This final point is to just be aware of how you are feeling. Most people feel fragile during the early months, but if you feel as though things aren’t getting better you should take care to ensure that the problem isn’t deepening into anything else. There is something going by the name of relocation depression and if you feel you are on this path, there is an even more urgent need to take action.

Make more effort to do all of the above, stay even closer to the people back home and if you are still struggling, just be conscious that a lot of people do experience this and mental support can be available.

If you have any questions, please ask below!