5 More Tips for a Smoother Relocation Transition

1. Don’t listen to folks who discourage your move. Sometimes the grass really is greener.

If there’s one thing I hate, it’s people who say, “If you can’t be happy here, you won’t be happy anywhere.”

Not true.

2. Do tons of research – and take nothing for granted. Talk to people who actually live there.

Recently someone from Los Angeles told me seriously, “You never get snow in Seattle.” Really? What was that white stuff coming down last January?

3. Line up a job or be prepared to take a step forward, sideways or backward.

Local businesses may distrust newcomers. In a small town, I’ve seen professionals detouring to wait tables, serve espresso and clean houses.

4. Identify friends and friends-of-friends in your target destination who can jump-start your social life and show you the ropes.

But don’t count on friends being available once you move. Relationships change when you’re the neighbor instead of “Mary who flies in a couple of times a year.”

And to be part of the gang, you may have to invest time in everything from pet-sitting to potluck dinners. Do you need this?

OK, I’l try to be more positive. College alumni groups are great. I’ve gotten some of my best local info that way. They’ll rarely turn up their collective noses at a fellow alum.

5. Become a commitment-phobe for the first six months.

This step is the single biggest factor in a successful move.

Rent before you buy, if at all possible. Don’t pay dues to a group – check out half a dozen meetings.

Your first contacts — people, organizations, groups — are like dandelions that show up at the first sign of spring. The roses come later.

So…why am I writing about relocation? I wrote a book on moving, now available as a download. Check it out here.