Moving to a new city can be an exciting, yet overwhelming experience. It’s a fresh start, a new chapter, and a chance to explore a new environment.

It might feel like there’s no way you can have any kind of self improvement or growth with everything else you have going on during a move- but the opposite is actually true.

According to a study done by the Journal of Environmental Psychology, having environmental discontinuities, which just means having a change up in your environment, is a key habit changing success indicator.

Half of the study participants went along in their day-to-day activities with no major change. The other half moved.

There was a significant increase in the creation and maintenance of new habits among those who made a relocation.

And it’s not surprising at all- right? The change in a new year, the change of a job, heck even a new outfit seems to give us that willpower boost we need to make the changes we’d like to make in our lives.

This is a forgotten gift of moving. Not to take away from the many challenges- but worth remembering. If you have a big move or relocation coming up- take advantage of this season of change as a springboard into a habit or lifestyle change you’ve been wanting to make.

Here are 6 great things you can do after moving to a new city:

1. Join a community group or club.

Joining a community group or club is an excellent way to meet new people and get involved in your new city. Whether it’s a sports team, a book club, or a volunteering group, finding a group with similar interests can help you feel more connected to your new community.

I don’t know if I would have survived our relocation to SC if not for the love and support we found in our church after moving to town.

People who relocate don’t usually think about the importance of community until they’re in the depths of loneliness. Prioritize this ASAP, and avoid the 6 month slump after a relocation.

2. Explore your new city.

One of the best things you can do after moving to a new city is to explore it. Take a walk, ride a bike, or even hop on a bus or train to see the sights. Check out the local museums, restaurants, and shops to get a feel for the area.

Making your new town feel like home has a big effect on your mood. Getting lost on simple errands can turn a bad day into a catastrophe- this is coming from the girl who has pulled over to cry in a new city a number of times.

3. Learn a new skill or start a new habit

Moving to a new city is a great opportunity to learn a new skill or hobby. Take a cooking class, learn to dance, or try your hand at pottery. Learning a new skill not only keeps your mind active, but it can also help you meet new people and connect with your community.

I don’t need to continue to convince you that this might be the BEST time to start a new habit… so hop to it!

4. Start a new routine.

Starting a new routine can help you settle into your new city and establish a sense of normalcy. Find a gym or fitness class, schedule regular coffee dates with new friends, or explore the local farmer’s market on weekends. Having a routine can make your new city feel more like home.

And with all the change moving brings… normalcy can be a lifeline.

5. Embrace the local culture.

Every city has its own unique culture, and embracing it can help you feel more connected to your new home. Attend local festivals, visit historical landmarks, and try the local cuisine. By immersing yourself in the local culture, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for your new city.

Don’t know where to start? Asking a real estate agent who specializes in relocation is your best bet. They know all the right people.

6. Keep an open mind.

Finally, the most important thing you can do after moving to a new city is to keep an open mind. Be open to new experiences, new people, and new ways of doing things. Embrace the unknown and embrace the adventure that comes with starting fresh in a new city.

And if you’re a few months in to a relocation and really struggling to get settled in- shoot me a message on instagram– if anything I can let you know you’re not alone!