METCALF MOVING BLOG
Making Friends As An Adult In a New City — These Tips Make It Easier
When moving, adjusting to a new home, neighborhood, and job can take a toll on anyone. However, it’s easy to forget that social connection is vital for settling into a new space. Here are some ways to connect with others as you get used to your new city.
1. Get Outside
It’s tough to meet others when you’re cooped up inside your home. But, no matter the season, getting outside is a fun, healthy way to meet others active in your area. Joining a running club, an intramural sports team, or simply taking your dog for a walk or to the dog park are all great ways to get to know others in the area.
2. Chat With Your Neighbors
Don’t just do the awkward half-wave every time you and your new neighbors happen to be in the driveway at the same time. Instead, be neighborly, walk over and introduce yourself. It can be fun to bring a home-baked treat to greet your neighbors if you feel so inclined. This is also a perfect time to ask questions about your neighborhood. For example, find out where the best pizza place is, where to go for happy hour, or even when to put your trash out.
3. Volunteer in Your Community
Volunteering is an exciting way to get to know others in your area, making you feel great. No matter your interests, it’s likely that you can find a place to volunteer nearby. For example, animal shelters, soup kitchens, church charities, local sports organizations, and non-profit healthcare organizations can often use volunteers. When you volunteer in your community, you don’t just get to do good — you get to know others with similar interests. If you’re not sure where to start, check out online volunteering apps. Another way is to visit your local government website or give them a call for information about area organizations that could use your help.
4. Pursue an Interest
It can be tough to put yourself out there when you move somewhere new, and choosing to meet up with other people who share an interest with you can be a great way to break the ice and keep the conversation flowing. Joining a bird-watching club, a church, a book club, or another special interest group can help you quickly connect with others.
5. Take a Class
Learning something new puts you in a vulnerable position, and it can be nerve-wracking to dive headfirst into learning a new skill when you’re in a new city. Doing so, however, is one of the most effective ways to create connections with others. So whether you’re interested in taking a wine tasting class, hitting up your local yoga studio, or learning how to cook, you’ll be surrounded by people who are also just getting started with a new skill.
Settling Into Your New Community
Making new friends when you move means that you’ll need to put yourself out there — depending on your personality, that can feel scary. But, take it one step at a time, and remember, it’s not a race. It can take some time to develop lasting connections, but it’s well worth the effort.
Let us help make the transition to your new home easier. Contact us for a free quote today.
