Tips for Adjusting to a New City

As a military family we have grown accustomed to moving quite a lot. In the 10 years that Kyle has been active duty we have lived in 7 homes and 5 states. While this is something that we are used to, it isn't always easy. There are difficulties that come with the constant moving. This could be things like not knowing where anything is or the daunting task of making new friends and building those relationships. This does not just apply to military life, if you are relocating because of a job or family circumstances these tips can help ease the tension from a move.

Here are some tips that have helped me adjust to a new area.

1. Get lost. 

Now this may seem a bit confusing, but if you stick with me you will understand what I mean. When Kyle and I got married and I moved to NC I was absolutely terrified. I had never lived outside of Las Vegas and the idea of essentially flying solo was hard. He encouraged me to "get lost". What he meant was just get in the car and drive. Drive around your new city and figure out where everything you need is. For me I had to learn both the military installation as well as the surrounding areas. Find the gym, restaurants, shopping areas, grocery stores, etc. This made all the difference for me during my transition. I still do this and it's a game changer.

2. Get plugged in to the community. 

This directly ties into #1, when you are driving around look for the local newspaper, figure out what local organizations are around that can helped you get plugged into all the things happening in the community. Also, find FB pages, this has always helped me. Most towns will have a FB page with local events happening and volunteer opportunities. The majority of the events that I find are due to the FB pages and word of mouth. If you are a churchgoer find a church home and get plugged in that way, I've had friends attend multiple ones before they found the right one for them. 

This is especially important when it comes to children. Find playgroups that you can take your children to and get them involved as well. We have a pretty active local library that does story times and wiggle time. If they are old enough get them involved in gymnastics or sports. 

I was lucky enough to find a workout group on post that I love. I am able to take E with me, not only do I get a great workout in but I have also begun to build great friendships with these ladies and it's been wonderful. 

3. Volunteer.

This one is pretty self explanatory. Look for ways you can give back to the local community. This could be anything from volunteering time at a local animal shelter or becoming involved with Habitat for Humanity. For me getting involved with the FRG (family readiness group) really helped me connect with other military spouses. You will forge a lot of great relationships and be able to help a great cause. 

4. Have a BBQ or Open House.

This is one thing that we have recently adopted and it has been a game changer for us. When we first moved here we made the decision to be more social. We decided to host a BBQ and we invited a lot of our neighbors. It was perfect because we had it outside in the driveway (block party style) with a ton of food and drinks, it was extremely casual with people coming and going as they wanted. Not only is this a great way to meet new people it's a great way for your neighbors to meet each other especially if most people are new. This is what we ran into during this move, pretty much everyone had just moved here and it worked great. Now we all have such a great rapport and almost every weekend someone has a bonfire and we all get together. 

5. Embrace it!

While not every location is ideal it is so important to make the most of it. I know some people hate hearing that but it's true. We have not lived in ideal locations but every place has their own charm and being able to embrace that can change your outlook. Step outside of your comfort zone and truly embrace where you live, even if the location might not be ideal you may just end up loving it more than you thought. 

I hope that these relatively simple tips are helpful for those who are preparing for (or have just completed) a move.