By Jennifer Scott
If you’ve ever had the urge to pack up and move after an upsetting misfortune or a low point in your life, you’re certainly not alone. Though the feeling of wanting to escape wanes over time as your life gets rosier, there’s a chance you may find yourself in a situation where moving is the best option for fixing your problem. Whether you’re dealing with the end of a relationship, loss of a dream job, or an emotional struggle after the death of a loved one, the following strategies can help you make wise and thoughtful decisions as you relocate in search of a happier future.
1. Identify Your Reason for Moving
Do you consider yourself an impulsive person? Step back for a moment and think about whether your situation is a logical reason to move.
If you’re suffering from breakup depression that, according to VeryWell Mind, can be severe but temporary, consider whether the low point could be remedied by other means. In that case, perhaps it’s in your best interest to stay in your current city. On the other hand, if you’ve been let go from a job that’s location-specific, you may be forced to relocate to find work.
2. Find a New City
If you’ve always dreamed of living by the beach in Marina Del Rey or in the mountains of Boulder, and you’ve decided that you’ve got one or many logical reasons to move, consider whether you see yourself thriving there. Make a list of pros and cons for each city you’re contemplating as a new place to live. Investigate how easily you could find sustainable work, pursue your hobbies and meet new people in these locations.
3. Discover a New Home
Renting is often a more practical option for single people in large California cities, while those in the heart of the country might want to buy a new home due to the lower cost of living and interest rates. If you’ve decided to pursue that beach home dream, consider getting in touch with a rental agency or realtor to find local accommodations that meet your needs.
4. Create a Checklist of Local Services and Professionals
After moving into your new home, make a list of professionals you may need to call in an emergency. This list can include names and numbers of general contractors, plumbers, electrical repair services, and other professionals. To get a drain unclogged or a pipe replaced, expect to pay your new plumber between $45 and $150 an hour. Ask for recommendations for licensed and insured individuals, or search “plumbers near me now” to find local contractors with positive reviews from their previous customers.
5. Establish Yourself as a Member of the New Community
If you work in an office with other people, you may find yourself with a built-in social life. If you’re having trouble meeting people, consider activities such as volunteering, attending local singles nights or trivia events at pubs, and finding a hobby with other participants, such as yoga, painting, or pottery.
Moving after a low point in life isn’t ideal for everyone, but for some people, emotional setbacks come at exactly the right time in their lives. Think about the tips above when deciding to move, and if you do relocate, ensure a smooth transition by planning ahead. Reach out to others for help as you integrate yourself into the new community and find local services you may need in the future.