Moving to a new community is a thrilling time. Although it may be a little intimidating at first, this can be a time of positive personal growth. When you are taken from your typical environment a whole new set of opportunities arise. What can you do to make the most of it? Below are a few tips to help you make the most of of your community. 

Start At Home

The transition to a new neighbourhood will be easier if you feel established at home first. Make getting settled a priority. Get your furniture situated and your belongings organized as soon as possible. 

Once you are settled in, you can really begin to personalize your new home. Decorate it to your tastes by painting feature walls or hanging your favourite artwork or family photos. Get your room established. Create comfortable indoor and outdoor sitting areas so you have welcoming places to relax. 

As soon as you are able, establish a daily routine; this will help you feel settled and grounded until you get your bearings in your new neighbourhood.

Get to Know Your Next Door Neighbour(s)

Your immediate neighbours are likely to be your biggest allies as you get to know your new community. Once you’re settled, make an effort to introduce yourself as soon as possible. You may discover they have similarly aged children or interests and are a great resource for learning about your new area. 

Get Outside

Take your kids or your dog to the park; sit on the bench and find another parent or dog owner to connect with. Get a feel for the area. Say hello to your neighbours when you are headed down your street exploring.  This is a simple yet effective way to open yourself up to others and invite conversation.

Explore Nearby Amenities

Take a drive through your new community and see which amenities you'll use frequently. Go to the local coffee shops. Talk with locals and find out their advice on the best places to check out. Visit other nearby stores and make conversation. Taking the time to speak with others is a good idea because they may share bits of important community information with you. This will give you a better picture of the area and builds connections with others at the same time. 

You may even want to consider spending time at your local library or bookstore to get to know a few new people and check out a some great reads.

Volunteer

Volunteering is a great way to contribute to a worthwhile cause while getting to know others at the same time. Choose a cause you feel passionate about and commit a few hours of your time every week. You’ll provide some much needed assistance, feel good about your efforts and make new friends.

Get Physical

As you know, physical activity creates a chemical response in the brain which leads to both temporary and long-term health benefits; if you’re having trouble adjusting, this is a great way to keep positive.

Get healthy and engage in your community at the same time by joining the local recreation centre. You may even want to consider joining a running, walking or cycle group in your area. Get out and get moving and you will see multiple benefits.

Do you enjoy biking, swimming, yoga, music or dancing? There are several recreational amenities throughout the greater Edmonton area offering a wide variety of classes for all levels. All of these options will renew your sense of self and have potential to create the community you are longing for. 

Try New Things

Develop fresh start thinking. Do you hunger to branch out and try something new? For instance, you could try pottery making or a baking class. Have you always wanted to play an instrument?  There is plenty to choose from when it comes to engaging in your community. More information on local activities, parks, arts centres, attractions, and more can be found here. 

Moving to a new community is not always an easy adjustment and may require you to challenge yourself, but with a little effort a few days a week, you will soon start to feel settled and enjoying all that a new community can offer. Today, you may visit a new place and explore. Tomorrow you may pick up a pizza from a local restaurant and watch a movie on your couch.  Settle in, explore, and enjoy your new community.

Photo credits: family, pictures, walking trail