If your heart is in the country, it can be a big adjustment if your job or family obligations require you to move to the city. Make the transition easier by finding ways to take advantage of the favorable features and alleviate the less favorable conditions.
Embracing the Favorable Features
1. Broaden your cultural horizons. Cultural attractions are what many people love most about city living. Become a member of your local museums. Subscribe to theater and concert programs. Browse community calendars for lectures and street fairs.
2. Sample the local fare. You may forget all about fried chicken once you taste shawarma. Many cities have loads of inexpensive ethnic eateries that serve generous portions. Look for specialty markets where you can buy the ingredients to make your favorite dishes at home. Frequent your local farmers markets for fresh produce and back-home country flair.
3. Spend more time out of your car. You may no longer need to own an automobile. Get more daily exercise by walking everywhere you can. Some rental services let you pick up a car for a few hours and drop it off when your errands are done.
4. Enjoy shorter commutes. If you’re lucky enough to be moving closer to work, you’ll now have lots more free time. Take more family outings or sign up for piano lessons.
5. Find more career opportunities. Even in a digital world, some companies still want to locate their headquarters in major urban centers. Check out new professional opportunities.
6. Make a fresh start. If your hometown still thinks of you as the kid who won the spelling bee, you can reinvent yourself in new surroundings. Think about what you want to be famous for in the next stage of your life.
Mitigating the Negative Features
1. Manage mental stress. Studies show that urban residents display more symptoms of mental stress than their rural counterparts. To handle moving at a faster pace, get plenty of rest. Try relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
2. Downsize your belongings. You’ll probably be living in tighter quarters. Getting rid of stuff you seldom use helps you feel like you have more space.
3. Prepare for sticker shock. You may be paying higher prices for food and other necessities. Look for store specials or use more coupons.
4. Reduce the noise level. Give yourself a break from traffic or upstairs neighbors. Wear earplugs or keep a fan running part of the day to drown out the city noises and help you feel like you have some peace and quiet. Listen to music on ear buds while you take the train to work.
5. Monitor air quality. Many cities have cut down on air pollution in recent years. You can protect yourself further by watching the air quality readings in the daily weather forecast and limiting your time outdoors on the worst days.
Additional Suggestions
1. Hold onto keepsakes. Bring along memories from home like photographs or childhood toys. They can help you feel connected.
2. Stay in touch with old friends. If you move far away, video calls are the next best thing to being there in person. Use email, social media and other technology to maintain long distance relationships.
3. Make new friends. Introduce yourself to your neighbors. Join a club or take a class where you can meet people who share your interests.
4. Locate the necessities. Wherever you settle in, you’ll feel at home faster if you take care of the daily essentials. Ask your coworkers for suggestions for a good dry cleaner or child care service.
City living and country living both have their advantages. Keep an open mind so you’ll enjoy both the stimulation of your new city and fond memories of your old country home.