Moving to a New City? - Mace® Brand Can Help

Over the past year and a half, the opportunity for remote work has risen dramatically. And with this shift to remote work, many people have taken the opportunity to move to a new city. According to the National Association of Realtors, more than 8.9 million people have moved since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Further, remote work is allowing people to try out temporary living situations and explore multiple cities for a few months at a time. USPS data shows a nearly 27% increase in temporary moves in 2020 compared to 2019.

Moving to a new city - whether for a month or permanently - can be both exciting and nerve-wracking all at the same time. If you recently moved or are planning to in the future, you might be thinking "how do I make new friends?" or "what are the best areas to explore in my new neighborhood?

When we face these new challenges, how you approach each makes a big difference on how things will turn out for you. At Mace^® Brand, we're here to help guide you through the challenges of moving to a new city. We're here to help ensure your personal safety, and we're here to help make things smoother during the process. We also have sound advice for moving to give you a little extra confidence as you acclimate to your new place.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

What do you know about your new city? Hopefully you've already figured out  where it is and how you'll get there, but where will you live? Should you rent first, buy later? Can you live a few months without your stuff? How will you stay safe in unfamiliar territory? These are questions that need exploring. While you don't have to check all the boxes at once, it's best to do your homework now.

Google your new city, and be sure check out these apps: "Spotted by locals" for larger cites, and "Trip advisor" for just about every location out there. If possible, plan a pre-move trip to your new city to scope out the living situation in-person. This will help you feel confident that you'll be living in a space, and neighborhood, where you feel safe and happy.   

EMBRACE EXTROVERSION

One of the top concerns when moving to a new city is how to make new friends. Oftentimes, especially if you're naturally introverted, you'll have to force yourself out of your comfort zone. Exploring and trying new things is sometimes a job in itself. Here's how to make it more enjoyable:

• Take a new class or attend a workshop in something you're passionate about. Immersing yourself in what you love will help you meet people with similar interests.
• Meet "friends of friends." Relatives and friends of friends in your new city are great resources. It's an easy way to meet someone who's familiar with the area and can connect you with more people.
• Try something new or something you have not tried in years. Maybe that's attempting a new sport or hitting up a restaurant with a new cuisine.
• Explore your new city with a pet or bicycle. Find the dog park, explore the biking trails. These are great ways to run into people and spark conversations.

When participating in activities and meeting new people, always keep personal safety top of mind. Meet new people in public places, and let a friend or family member know your plan in advance.

GET OUT AND EXPLORE

One of the most exciting aspects of a move is the opportunity to explore a new area. Take time to check out parks, bookstores, coffee shops, and restaurants to immerse yourself in your new city. Exploration will help you get acclimated to your new home and familiarized yourself with the area.

But, before you step out the door, take a minute to do some research. Map out your routes and read reviews of shops and neighborhoods - this will help you explore the city with confidence.

CONSIDER PERSONAL SAFETY DEVICES 

Empower yourself by knowing you have help when it comes to staying safe. Confidence grows with familiarity, and confidence grows with knowing you have the ability to protect yourself if necessary. At Mace^®Brand, we've put together two kits made especially for those on the move. The apartment safety kit gives you three ways to stay safe. It includes an ear piercing alarm with a built in whistle, a powerful stun gun for up-close self defense, and a powerful pepper gel equipped with an LED light to provide night or daytime defense.  

The Mace^® Brand home defense kit provides you with our largest, most powerful pepper gel and a powerful stun gun. You just never know, especially when you're moving to a new city.

BRING YOUR FURRY FRIEND

Let's face it, moving to a new city with pets can add some additional challenges to the journey. This may sound odd, but veterinarian and experienced pet mover Walter Woolf suggests talking to your pet, explaining where they're going and what life will be like. No, your pet won't understand the actual words, but your projecting calmness will set a positive mood. 

Other tips for moving pets:

• Make sure your pets are microchipped and have ID tags with your new address.
• Review local pet-related ordinances and laws in your new city.
• Word with your current veterinarian to find a veterinarian in your new neighborhood.
• Assemble moving boxes a few days before the move so your pet becomes accustomed to seeing a similar look in your own home.
• Pack a to-go bag for your pet with food, water, treats and a favorite toy in case these items aren't easily accessible once you arrive at your new home.

While moving to a new city with a pet can be challenging, having your pet with you in your new home will provide some familiarity and comfort amidst all the changes. Bring your pet with you to explore your new neighborhood so you can both get acclimated and build confidence in your new city.

KEEP IN TOUCH WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Remember, we live in a small world thanks to technology. A quick text, call, video chat, or social media post can really pick you up if you're feeling isolated. 

We live our mission of providing community and family safety through individual empowerment. If you're joining a new community, approach the journey with optimism and an open mind. We're here to help. 

Another story you would enjoy: "I Can't Save Everybody, But I'm Trying To Do What I Can" - Her Empowe (mace.com)

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