Moving to a new state presents a world of new possibilities, but you’ll need some time before the place really feels like home. However, how much time that takes is somewhat within your control. Feeling settled in your new area could take a year, or it could take three months — our tips below will increase the chances that it’s the latter.
Move Out Of Short-Term Accommodation Quickly
You’ll likely stay in short-term accommodation when you first land in your new town. While that’s a recommended move — you’ll need to view more permanent places in person before committing — it’s important to make sure that it really is short-term accommodation. You’ll need your own base to truly settle in, and that can’t happen if a stay that was supposed to last two weeks turns into several months.
When you arrive, make viewing apartments the priority. Whether you’re looking for a studio or a three-bedroom residence, you won’t find it until you begin your search. It can be tempting to begin enjoying life in your new chosen destination as soon as you arrive, but you’ll enjoy it much more if you wait until you’ve arranged where you’ll live on a long-term basis.
Explore Thoroughly
Once you’ve got your place, the fun can start. We were debating putting the next point (establishing your routine) in this position, but we think it’s more important to start enjoying your new home. After all, you’ll feel much happier about being in a new place once you’ve got a sense of all the fun activities and attractions it has on offer. We’d recommend setting aside your free time to simply explore — not only will you likely stumble upon something fun, but you’ll also be developing your understanding of the place.
Establish Your Routine
A good routine can provide the foundation for a happy life, and can also help with any stress/anxiety you feel about moving to a new town. You’ll feel more settled if you get a gym membership and find your new favorite cafe/restaurant/grocery store. Even little things, such as visiting your favorite bakery each morning, can help you feel more at home.
Don’t Go Home
Finally, don’t go home (and by that, we mean the place you were living before you were moving) unless it’s really necessary. This suggestion might sound a little strange, but there’s logic to it. Moving to a new city can be fun and exciting, but it can also be a little scary and lonely at first, at least a little.
To settle in quickly, it’s best to override the temptation to return to the familiar surroundings of where you were living before, and simply go through the uncomfortable feeling. Those feelings can sometimes pass in as little as a few minutes, and every time you avoid booking the next flight back to familiarity, you’ll be reaffirming that where you’re now based is your new home.
Instead, do the good things — build your routine, work on good habits, and build your connections. It’ll pay off sooner than you think.