The decision to relocate

What says ‘a new beginning’ better than a new environment. A fresh start. A clean slate. A blank canvas where you can rewrite your life story without the shame, trauma and darkness of your past. That magical place where no one knows your name.

The reasons that prompt people to relocate are relative for every individual. It might be a new job opportunity, an escape from a toxic relationship maybe or even a decision to be more adventurous and live life. Who really knows? Truly the reasons are endless and you're the only person who knows your story better than everyone else.

The decision to relocate is not a light one and it's rarely random and unplanned, for most. A lot of meditation goes into the thought process before taking the step. It's quite frankly, ‘taking a leap of faith’. There is a massive hope for positive change that people anticipate. You know, the expectation that the grass is greener on the other side.

As human beings, we are bound to form emotional attachments with and within our areas of residence. We create cultural systems within these areas and become conditioned to them as our version of normalcy. This is why home feels like home. We settle into familiarity and become creatures of habit. We learn how to create coping mechanisms and work situations to our advantage in a bid to survive.

Without a doubt, relocation signifies a change in the system. It's the next page - anything is to be expected. You might not be able to take your old home and friends with you, but the beautiful thing is that, you take yourself everywhere you go. The environment might vary but you remain a constant.

Yes, of course you will experience a level of struggle in settling some place new. It will take you time and it's important to take yourself through the process with grace. Be gentle and patient with yourself as you figure out the new dynamics. One of the most impressive traits about human beings is our ability to adapt. This feature is innate, it's in you, a gift from our ancestors. So trust me when I say, you'll be fine.

This period is among those in life where your relationship with yourself will be tested. It's key to keep yourself aware and conscious of your thoughts and emotions. Check on yourself, call your best friend, prepare your favourite meal, watch a couple of episodes of your favourite TV show. Remember that you are responsible for taking care of yourself. Also, it helps to spend some time outside. Explore the scenery of the new neighbourhood, say hi to the next door neighbour. Who knows, you might just end up finding out how much you like the new place.

I wish you all the best on the adventure if you're contemplating on relocating.