Long-distance moves are time-consuming, complicated, and stressful. They require extensive planning, multiple resources, and a substantial financial commitment. However, the psychological impact of a long-distance move is often overlooked. Whether you relocated for a job opportunity, school, affordable housing, or a better quality of life, leaving a familiar environment is emotionally challenging.
You’re in a new space, miles away from friends and family. Everything from your home and neighborhood to the workplace and other surroundings is different. The experience is isolating, scary, and sad. Although these feelings are common when you step outside of your comfort zone, remaining stuck in your emotions causes you to miss out on the positive experiences ahead.
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Make New Friends
Some feelings will subside as you make your house a home and develop routines. However, a certain level of emptiness and isolation remains. You’ll always feel disconnected and lonely without social interactions and authentic relationships. After handling the basics of a long-distance move, begin socializing with others and making new friends. If you’re nervous about this process as the “new kid on the block,” these tips below will help.
Introduce Yourself To Neighbors
Not all communities have a welcome wagon that makes new neighbors feel comfortable. Don’t wait for your neighbors to come knocking on your door. Make the time to introduce yourself. Visit the homes of people on your block and say hello. If they seem inviting, start a conversation about the community to learn more about your surroundings. Bringing cards, baked goods, or other small gifts is a great way to break the ice and build genuine connections.
Get To Know Your Coworkers
Introductions shouldn’t stop at your neighbors. You should also open the lines of communication with your coworkers. You spend 8 to 10 hours a day in the office, making your coworkers the people you socialize with the most. They also live in the area and can help you learn more about the town.
During your breaks, walk around and interact with your coworkers. Talk about things other than work, like where you’re from, outside interests, and adjustment challenges. The more you open up, the more likely your coworkers are to want to get to know you better. Soon, making jokes at the water cooler will turn into authentic friendships.
Visit Local Restaurants And Bars
Don’t allow your daily routine to become home, work, running errands, and home again. You’ll never feel comfortable if you don’t get out and explore. Although going out alone may feel awkward, it’s one of the best ways to make new friends.
Wherever you end up, it’s very easy to search LA, Houston, Phoenix, Miami, Chicago, or Jersey City bars online. Check out the official website to get an idea of the environment, cuisine, and activities. Then read a few reviews to see if it’s a bar or restaurant that people in the area frequently visit. Lastly, find a day to go out and mix and mingle with the crowd. Eventually, you’ll build connections with people who become your best friends.
Get Involved In Your Community
Sometimes, the best way to meet great people is to get lost in helping others. Research the community programs and events in the area and determine how you can use your skills, talents, time, or financial resources to help.
Whether it’s becoming a basketball coach at a community center, donating school supplies, joining neighborhood watch, reading to school-aged children, or offering your professional services to a small business, it creates an opportunity to meet new people.
No matter how beneficial your long-distance move is, it doesn’t take away the feelings of loneliness and discomfort. While there’s nothing wrong with grieving what was or feeling uneasy about a new environment, you shouldn’t remain in that headspace. Unless you start being intentional about adjusting and making new friends, you’ll never be able to experience the full potential of this next chapter in your life. Use the advice above to get to know the people surrounding you and build friendships that make your long-distance move worthwhile.
