Outfit Details: Top: Vestique (only $34!) | Skirt: Vestique (my faveee), similar | Necklace: Moon and Lola | Boots: similar | Hat: similar | Bag: Forever 21
Whether you’re ready to start a new career or patiently awaiting post-grad life, moving is not as easy as it seems. Even for an extrovert like myself, it’s hard to put yourself out there and make new connections. I’ve moved 3 times in the past year (I know, I’m crazy): Back home after Auburn, New York City, and finally, Greenville. Whether it’s big cities or small towns, check out all of my moving tips below!
1. Triple-check your housing options: Seriously. This should go without saying, but I needed to pass this wisdom on. When moving to New York City, I heavily researched where I should live in terms of commute, grocery, etc. The idea of moving to a bigger city was so daunting that I put a lot of emphasis on having an ideal apartment situation. However, when I moved to Greenville, I assumed that the “cheaper” rent and larger square footage was all I needed to satisfy me. I.Was.Wrong. I moved from my first apartment after 2 months because of pest control issues 😭 but I’m happy to say I’m in a place that I love now! Always go with your gut and don’t sacrifice your top priorities or you’ll probably just end up moving again.
2. Social media is your best friend: I always search for Facebook groups when I move because it’s obviously a great way to connect with others. I also make a point to search through Instagram hashtags (shoutout to #yeahthatgreenville) to see where local people are eating and hanging out! I’ve made the most connections (professionally and personally) since moving to Greenville with these tactics!
3. Get involved and find your community: By community, I mean friends who sincerely care about your wellbeing. My NYC group would meet every Sunday for a potluck dinner and it was honestly the best part of my week! You can also find ways to volunteer and give back to your new community. If you love animals, check out your local shelter or join Big Brother/Big Sister to become a mentor. You get to meet new people while making a difference!
4. Get lost…on purpose: It’s easy to take the same route to work -> church -> grocery store -> home. Don’t be afraid to drive around and discover new areas of town! *Note: I suggest trying this when it’s lighter outside and with a navigation system present just in case you get too lost.
5. Keep up with your old hobbies: If you’re a runner or gym rat who exercises every day, don’t stop! Not only is it good for your mental health, but the routine will relax you and give you the opportunity to make your town feel more like home.
6. Ask the locals: And by locals, I mean people who have lived there for more than 2 years. When I moved to NYC, a lot of people tried to tell me where to visit… from the tourist perspective. It was still welcomed advice but there are some things you can only get from real residents. That article for “50 things to do in X” may be nice to pin and read for later, but don’t be afraid to ask your barista what their favorite part of the city is.
7. Convenience is key: Even though you’ll eventually be able to navigate yourself without the help of Google Maps, it’s nice to go ahead and think of location. Factor in traffic times, grocery store proximity, where your closest Target is (wait is that just me?) and more. If you’re in your 20’s, living close to the social scene is probably a high priority. Missing out on opportunities to make new friends and connections because of the distance is not worth it. After you’ve established your circle of friends, then feel free to move to a quieter area of town.
8. Give yourself time to acclimate: I’ve been blessed to have been able to make friends with my fellow co-workers and students, but those relationships didn’t form instantaneously! Moving from New York City to Greenville, I definitely had concerns about culture shock. I constantly told friends I would find my way back as soon as my program was over. Now, I’ve fallen in love with this town and can see why so many people love its quaint, southern charm!
I’m not sure where I’ll move to next, but I’m ready to take on the challenge! Do you think it’s harder moving as a young adult or when you’re older? Let me know below!
xx
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This was somethings I was looking for, absolutely flawless moving tips and I agree social media has drastically changed the whole landscape where you can find tips and tricks and nowadays some local movers have shifted their businesses on the internet which has made life a whole lot easier. Keep up the good work! :)
This outfit is absolutely fabulous!
Thanks so much, Dree!
I love this post girl! These are great tips and I know I have utilized some of them in the past when it came to networking and finding local things to do.
-xo, Azanique | http://www.lotsofsass.com
This article hits the nail on the head. I moved to Nashville before and after Auburn and all 3 of those moves were drastically different from one another. It took a lot of time to acclimate myself to each town. Nashville has changed so much in the 3 years I have been gone that it feels like I am starting over and I love these tips so much!! They are a lot of what I have done here to make it feel more like home :) Thanks Tomi! <3
Love it, Kalee! It’s crazy how fast everything can change. Glad you’re enjoying Nashville and making it feel like home! :)