Know Your Why Recovery is proud to say Dylan Foster is back with another guest blog. Though this entry is not the typical type of content for Know Your Why, we felt it still fit well here as it has to do with change. In fact, this entry has to do with a speicifc type of change almost everyone needs to cope with at some point in their life…relocation. Read below for the article.
Moving to a new place and starting a new chapter in your life may not be the cure for every problem, but there are many ways in which starting fresh can be a catalyst for positive change. It shouldn’t be a matter of running away from your problems, but rather of finding new, creative solutions. For instance, if you are having difficulties in career, finance, or social life, moving to a location where more options and opportunities are available can help. And Know Your Why Recovery reminds you that creating new routines in a new place can also help you put unhelpful habits behind you. If you are burnt out or in a rut, moving to a new place and starting a new job might be just what you need to feel energized and motivated again.
Finding Your Fresh Start
If you’re planning to move because of specific goals you want to pursue to improve your quality of life, find out what locations would be ideal for your purposes. For instance, if you are hoping to spend more time outdoors in nature for your physical or mental health, find out which cities or communities are the most supportive of an outdoorsy lifestyle. Or if you’re hoping to advance in your career, look at areas that are ranked highly for your industry or field. Read up on details like cost of living, transportation options, economy, employment, cultural activities, and safety. If you have kids, investigate local schools. Get all the facts before you start making your move.
Purchase or Rent Your New Home
Once you’ve zeroed in on the neighborhood or area you’d like to live in, it’s time to start house hunting. First, decide whether it will make more sense to rent or to own. To help determine which option is most affordable, look into current real estate trends like whether your target area is in a seller’s or buyer’s market. Then check out different neighborhoods, compare the cost of housing, and see what your budget will allow. Work with a real estate agent to help you find your dream property.
Prepare for Your Move
It’s always advisable to start planning for your move well in advance. This will give you an opportunity to sort and pack your belongings, deal with any unfinished business, arrange address changes, and of course hire a moving company you can trust. When contracting with movers, be sure to read plenty of reviews to find recommendations for good companies in your area. Also, any reputable mover will want to arrange an in-house visit before providing you with a written estimate. Other preparations you may want to make include arranging for child care or pet care on moving day.
Settling In
It always takes a little time to get comfortable in a new neighborhood, but it shouldn’t be too hard for you to begin to feel at home. However, you should take some time to orient yourself with the geography, get used to driving routes to your workplace or to basic amenities like grocery stores or pharmacies. Getting involved in community organizations, volunteering, taking classes, and joining clubs can help you start making connections in your new community. Social media can be a great tool for getting to know others in your area with shared interests.
You should also make some strategic changes to your new place to ensure it’s safe. For example, change the garage code, if there is one, and always change the locks on your new property. You don’t want unwanted guests with old keys making themselves at home. You can change the locks yourself or look online for “closest locksmith to me” to find a well rated locksmith in your new area. Be sure to read the reviews so that you get someone trustworthy.
If making a move is the right choice for you, to get your life back on track after a low point or setback, it’s important to choose a great community where you will have ample opportunities to pursue your dreams and put the past behind you.
People relocate for lots of reasons. If you’re seeking a fresh start due to an addiction, let us help. Know Your Why Recovery provides resources and support for anyone struggling with addiction. Visit us online to keep your goals in sight and stay in recovery.
Dylan Foster, guest blogger