5 Habits You MUST Avoid When You Move to a New City
There's nothing quite like relocating to a new city!
It's a fresh start full of new surroundings to explore, new experiences to partake in, and fresh faces to meet—but it can also leave you feeling really vulnerable and lonely.
To make sure you get the most out of your time in a new town, scroll down and check out our list of five habits you must avoid when you move to a new city:
Relying Heavily on Old Pals
Though it can be very tempting to call and text your old friends constantly as you settle into a new town or city, resist the urge to depend on your pals too much. While they may provide comfort (which is undoubtedly important as you navigate a new locale), relying on them excessively could prevent you from exploring your new surroundings and forming new friendships that are now much closer to home.
Trying to Replicate Your Old Friend Group
Attempting to replicate the exact friend group you had in your previous town or city is never a good idea, because the nature of that concept automatically forces you to narrow down the types of people you're willing to befriend. Instead, be open as possible and try to refrain from passing judgment on people until you get to know them. The quiet neighbor you see walking her dog every morning could turn out to be a great friend. Same goes for that video game-obsessed coworker.
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Getting Too Caught Up in Your Self-Care Routine
Don't get us wrong, self-care is important, and it's especially critical during times of stress, including moving to a new city. However, it's also easy to use self-care as an excuse when you don't want to do something that pushes you out of your comfort zone. In a new city, just about everything is going to be outside your comfort zone. If you have a choice between an at-home spa day or going to the movies with a new acquaintance, choose the outing. It will be much more beneficial to you in the long-run.
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Being Too Shy at Work or School
A new city likely means you also have a new job or are going to a new school. While it might be tempting to be shy and cautious in a new setting, fight against that urge and let others get to know you and get a feel for your personality. Introduce yourself to those you meet and let them know you're new to the area. Most people will embrace that and want to help and make you feel comfortable.
Spending Too Much Time on Social Media
Social media is a great way to keep in touch with old friends and to see what they're up to, but try not to scroll on Instagram or Facebook too much as you start your life in a new city. For starters, seeing all the fun everyone else might be having (whether it's real or curated) could understandably bum you out if you're already vulnerable and missing your former life. Additionally, if you're too focused on social media, it means you're not concentrated on building a life for yourself in a new city. Put down the phone and try to make a new friend instead!
For more advice, click HERE for what to do if you love your school sport but can't stand your team.