Relocating should be exciting and enjoyable, not scary and overwhelming! If you plan ahead, there’s no reason why your move shouldn’t run smoothly, so it’s important to make sure you’ve covered all the bases. From choosing your location, finding a home and moving your belongings across borders, there’s a lot to think about, but there’s always somebody available to help you every step of the way! Of course, it’s worth planning on what to do once you reach your destination too. So here are some of our top tips to help you settle into your new home…
Start big
We’re all guilty of tackling the little jobs first, because they’re easier and seem more manageable. However, sorting out the big stuff as soon as you arrive will help you to relax and make settling in much more enjoyable. Start unpacking those bigger boxes, arrange the large pieces of furniture in the room you’re going to be spending your time in as a priority. These are things that will help to make you feel more at home – you don’t want to spend your first few days or weeks sleeping on a blow-up bed or eating dinner on the floor!
Don’t rush
You can settle in quickly and efficiently without rushing. Rushing will only encourage you to feel more overwhelmed and uneasy about your move. Take on one project at at time. Rather than attempting to multitask, allow yourself a certain amount of time for each job you have. If you move systematically you’ll remain calm and focused. Want to get those books up on the shelf? Set aside half an hour, put on some music and enjoy the task!
Take time to explore
It’s important you find the time to explore your new area, even if you visited in the past, now that you’re a resident of the area, you might find you view the place differently. Take some time to locate your nearest convenience store, park, ATM, doctor’s surgery, introduce yourself to your neighbours. The sooner you know your way around, the sooner you’ll start to feel at home.
Keep it tidy
If you put off unpacking or don’t allow yourself enough time to unpack properly you’ll end up living amongst boxes and you won’t feel truly settled. As you unpack, make sure you find a proper place for everything – the last thing you’ll want is to be unable to find something because you can’t remember where you put it. It can be a truly sensitive time relocating to a strange place, and living in a comfortable environment will make all the difference.
Ask for help
If you don’t ask you don’t get! Asking your neighbours for help when you need it is a great way of making new friends and the perfect opportunity to find out more about the area. If you need help settling in, connecting your WiFi, changing a fuse, finding the nearest store, go ahead and ask. If you don’t, you’ll only be delaying the moment you finally feel at home.
