Over the course of my life, I’ve moved quite a bit. From a small island to a big city; from the big city to the countryside; from the country back to the islands; and now, I’m headed to yet another metropolis.
I have been all over; but, it seems like I've never really had a choice. Every new home, new city, new stage of my life, has been as a result of school or work.
For a long time, I felt like I was coasting along; I was accomplishing things, but none of the things I actually wanted were happening in those moments. I realized that my whole life was moving past me with some semblance of a plan; but one that I wasn't totally in control of. Where I was and what I was doing always just sort of happened and nothing was ever my first option for how my life would play out.
So, what happens when where you are isn't allowing you to fully blossom or accomplish certain things that bring you closer to your purpose?
Don't get me wrong, I've always been a firm believer in the idea that you can do anything --- no matter where you are; but, the truth is sometimes your zone just doesn't offer the opportunities you need to reach your full potential. In a case like this, it's time to make a change and the decision to move somewhere else is definitely on the table.
I'll be honest, uprooting your life is a hard one -- especially if you're headed into the unknown.
Without a job offer or a tangible reason to relocate (like marriage, etc), sometimes moving just seems so crazy and unrealistic. But trust me, it can work in your favor!
Sometimes, the way to move forward is changing your perspective — and choosing a new place that can allow you to accomplish your goals may be just the right shift in perspective you need!
But, before making the big move, the first thing you must consider is WHY.
1) All too often, people use moving as a way to run from their problems; but, what they don’t realize is that problems aren't a result of location -- they move right along with you. You need to make sure you move with a specific goal in mind - whether that be for networking opportunities, more exposure, to advance your career, or because you simply want to be closer to family.
Once you have your goal in mind, it's time to do your research.
2) Before you start narrowing down the where and when, the MOST important thing to consider is one that most people never talk about: the laws of immigration. Sure, jet-setting off to some foreign country sounds whimsical; but the reality is, every country has laws -- and there are serious penalties if you break them. So, if you aren’t a citizen of the place you’re trying to go to, you MUST consider how you’ll be able to stay in the city or country legally.
When, after exploring all of your legal options, you've determined that it's possible to make your move, then it's time for the fun part.
Finding your new city.
3) Start looking for cities/countries that best serve your purpose. If you're looking to expand your career in the arts, find places with a large creative community. If you're looking for a place to build a family, look for cities that are affordable, with good schools and communities with a family oriented environment. Pinpointing cities that have the things you are looking for will narrow down your choices tremendously and will ensure that your move allows you to do the growing you want/need.
The next thing to consider is the cost of living.
4) Unfortunately, this will be a huge factor in narrowing down your choice for a new home. Unless you have an abundance of money, life gets expensive -- especially when you're starting over. The amount of money it will take to relocate and get yourself set up again is no cheap venture, so you want to make sure you’re moving to a place that won’t break the bank.
This brings me to my next point: lower your expectations.
5) Moving WILL overwhelm you. Don’t think you’re going to get to your destination of choice and love your life immediately. It will take time to build bonds, find the right job, develop connections, and break into your industry. All of these things won’t happen overnight; but with a little hard work and carving out your place in your new space, it can not only happen, but also be AMAZING!
All in all, moving is a huge undertaking; but, the benefits can be well worth it .
So, if you're debating the big move, we say go for it but only go for the right reasons and we hope that these "things to consider" make your decision about moving a little easier!
*I made my big move this week so check the blog again next week for tips on what to do after you've decided to relocate :)
-Cheers