Moving to a new city at 25

Moving cities is never an easy task. Packing up your life, and starting over somewhere new. You may not have friends, or a job, or a clue on how to navigate these new streets you now call home. It can be a very daunting task, particularly in your 20's, and especially if you haven't moved from your hometown before. BUT, this big life change is also a time of excitement, fun and exploring. YUMM! chatted to Kate, who decided to move cities in her mid-20's, about what motivated the change, unexpected challenges and what are the best parts of moving cities and being in a new place.

How old were you when you moved to a new city?

25. I am 27 now.

Where are you living now and where were you living previously?

I moved to Melbourne, Australia. I grew up and lived in Brisbane my whole life previous that.

What motivated you to want to move to a new city?

Funnily enough, I’ve always wanted to live in Melbourne, however, could never see a way of getting myself here. However, once I moved to Canada for a snow season and met my boyfriend (who coincidently was from Melbourne), I saw an opportunity to move back to Australia and live in a city I’ve always dreamt of living in. I feel like I was motivated by the fresh start Melbourne would provide me. I was no longer scared or nervous about starting fresh in a new city, and more so saw it as a challenge.

What is your favourite part of living somewhere that is different from where you grew up?

I love that everything is new. New restaurants, shops, beaches, walking treks, new places to enjoy an afternoon drink. With everything being so new it can be confusing at times. But it’s also really refreshing to be able to explore so many new places.

Is there one thing you wish you had of been told before you decided on moving cities? 

If I could go back and give myself some advice I’d say, take your time. You are not going to know your way around or know everything instantly. I’ve learnt that moving cities and being comfortable living in a new place takes time and that you need to be patient whilst you figure everything out. Google Maps will honestly be your best friend for the first few months; but that’s okay, as it will be able to help you explore and eventually find your new favourite places within the new city.

What were the most stressful aspects of the move?

I think one of the most stressful aspects is making sure everything aligns in terms of employment, living situation, and lifestyle. It’s hard to find a job when you don’t have a place to live, and it’s also hard to find a place to live if you don’t have a job. You’ve really got to hit the ground running with this, take opportunities when they come and work hard to find out exactly what you want your city to give you.

Do you ever feel homesick and if so, what do you do to help overcome the feeling?

I still do feel homesick at times. Strangely enough, I feel homesick the most right before I’m about to go home for a visit. To help me overcome this, I always try and do something that I’m comfortable with. I will watch some Netflix, read a book, or go for a walk. Being able to ease my mind with something I know I enjoy always helps with being homesick. As well, simply talking to someone from home is really great too, as this helps make me still feel connected.

How did you make new friends and do you have any advice to others in the same situation? 

Put yourself out there, and recognise opportunities when they come. Whether it is at work, at home with new roommates, or through friends of friends – if you find someone you get along with, do the groundwork to make sure you will see them again. It isn’t too hard – try and find some common interests or a reason that you’d both like to meet up for again.

What have been some unexpected stresses what have you done to get through these challenges? 

I think I’ve had it all. Not liking my job, not having the best of roommates, and not liking the apartment we were living in. You just have to remind yourself that nothing is permanent. This is just a rough patch, however, if you work at it, it will get better. I also think it’s important to identify what I didn’t like about said certain situation, and what I could change if I could. This is really important – otherwise, you may get stuck in a similar situation again. Finally, simplify it for yourself as much as you can. Don’t like your job? Be patient, apply for ones you’re interested in, and eventually you’ll find one you love. It will always get better.

Did your reality of moving cities align with the expectations?

In some ways yes, in some ways no. Initially, I struggled with a few things – both at work and at home. Unfortunately, these issues all occurred around the same time, which was something I’ve never experienced before and made it all a bit overwhelming. I wasn’t expecting to have so many issues at the same time, however, this taught me to really look at the situation, break down all the relevant issues (I’m a list writing person personally) and then just to start tackling one issue at a time.In saying that though, Melbourne has been the most welcoming city and it has really blown my expectations in terms of a city. I really love being able to explore and am fortunate for my set up now, that I did work hard for.

Do you have any advice for someone struggling to adjust to life in a new city?

Take it slow, do things at your own pace. You’re not going to have a whole group of friends or know your way around the city instantly. These things take time. Enjoy your time getting to know the new city your way.

How do you stay in touch with friends and family?

All I can say is, thank god for Facebook Messenger! I’ve really taken advantage of group chats with both friends and family. Still being a part of the ‘everyday’ chat in these groups (the day to day chat that I sometimes found boring before) really makes me feel like I’m still connected.

What is your favourite way to de-stress when life is getting busy or stressful? 

To de-stress, I really benefit from creating lists or plans, so I can visually see what I have to conquer. I and also lucky enough to live close to work. So I take the opportunities to walk to or from work whenever I can. I enjoy listening to a podcast or music when I’m walking, and really using this time just to reset my brain.

Thinking of moving abroad? Read our chat with Zoe about making the move overseas and her thoughts on taking on such a big adventure!

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