Last month, we talked about The Meandering Career Path and how having a single job at the same company for the entirety of one’s life is incredibly rare. Today, we extend that zig-zag of a challenge into our homes, literally, as we chat about what it’s like to move one’s entire HOME to a new location.
Yes, a fresh start sounds wonderful but, by GAWD, it is terrifying.
We have both been on the UHaul end of one of those “start over somewhere else” decisions and thought it would be fun to share the things we learned along those dark, confusing and lonely treks.
Key thoughts?
Have a plan prior to packing. Are there clubs or organizations you can join? Get yourself on their radar before you say “So long!” to your old life. If you are opting for temporary housing until you can get on your feet–set a finish line. Know when you want to be on your feet and where those feet will be standing and stick to the goal.
As you settle in, take the road less traveled and do it without the benefit of your GPS. Really. The quickest way to feel comfortable in your new skin is to get lost - especially if it means asking a stranger for help. You will find most people are quite helpful and welcoming to the new kid in town.
Leave your house/apt/condo/tent. Leave it a lot. We have so many avoidance techniques at our fingertips but put them all away and get out in public. It may seem much more appealing to spend days on the couch catching up on Gilmore Girls but now is now the time to wallow under a blanket.
Embrace the Suck. This is true in many aspects of life, but especially in starting anew. It will suck. You will cry. You will feel lonely. You will feel like you will never be happy again. Embrace it all as, eventually, those feelings will be a thing of the past.
You are not alone. Ask. Really. Find yourself standing in a checkout line? Half of those in line with you were new to the area at some point. Be brave and ask.
This episode was not sponsored by Fly Away Products, providing the best alternative to swatting those picnic pests directly into your potato salad. Buy several! They make a great holiday present!
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Jyl Barlow has all things Jyl! Also, it’s pronounced, “jill.”
Which Way's Up is Jyl’s blog, home of weekly epiphanies and often overshares
What to Expect When You Weren't Expecting is Jyl's best-selling memoir about her hilarious struggles as a (step)mother. Buy it online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Goodreads, and Target!
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Wine & Whine is part of Bearlow Productions and is created Jyl Barlow and Kathy Crowley.
