I live in California, and am considering, seriously, a move to be with extended family in Oklahoma. So many considerations… I’ve never lived there, but have visited many times. Am I just hoping for the best, or is it a real possibility?
No matter what age you are, making any major life transition can be a challenging and scary time. But it can also be a really excitingtime and a time for personal growth. Like most things, it’s important you set yourself up for success and be a good friend to yourself. Here are some tipsto consider before and during moving…
Know that there will be stress – everybody handles stress differently, but expect that there may be some bumps inthe road. By keeping this in mind and acknowledging that things may not happen exactly the way you want them to, will help you be prepared for the unexpected.Don’t be discouraged by this, but try to embrace the challenge. Whenever you experience something new, know that you are learning…it’s up to youwhat you do with that knowledge.
Reach out – it’s important to learn and experience things on your own, but it’s just as important to share this with others. This ishow we connect and form bonds with the people around us. This will help you stay connected to the people you leave behind and help you form stronger relationshipswith the people you are building a future with. It also makes life a lot more fun.
Embrace the new chapter – you’re stating off with something new! Take it all in. Ever think…mmm, I would loveto finish off my college classes, or start a new degree…would like to join a basketball league, take some music classes, or get involved with makingtraditional crafts…well this might be the perfect opportunity to do this. Dive in! This is also a good time to look at some routines you’ve gotstuck in, or bad habits you want to change. How do you want to live your life? What are the important things in life? Go get them!
Be realistic – things take time. Expect that at some point you might start to really miss where you just came from. This is natural.Some experts say that this can be a type of grieving. Work hard at being patient and positive, especially when meeting new friends and reconnecting withfamily. Things don’t happen overnight and you might have to put in more time than you expected. That’s okay. I like to think that in the long run all thehard work I put into the present makes the future more of what I want it to be.
Last thing…
Be open and kind to yourself – this is a big deal! Try to stay positive and keep an open mind. Everything is a possibility.
Go onward and create the life you want for yourself. Good luck!
Auntie Manda
