Moving to NYC? How to Adjust to Life in New York

Mar 13

Moving to NYC? How to Adjust to Life in New York Emotionally

Moving to New York City is a major life decision. Whether it’s for college, for work, out of simple desire, or for a romantic partner, it can be both a tough and rewarding choice to make. Perhaps you even feel overwhelmed by emotions related to the decision: a mix of excitement and nerves, or, on the other hand, dread and a bittersweet feeling of leaving your previous home.

We’re here to help you with the emotional adjustment. From feeling at home in a new apartment to being comfortable with new friends, we’re here to remind you of ways to find balance and an inner sense of calm in the midst of the buzzy NYC streets. We’re also here to tell you it’s okay if you want to feel swept up by the NYC energy for a bit. There’s a reason people want to move to the city, and it’s rarely to live a very quiet lifestyle, though there are still ways to seek that out.

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Navigating Your Commute with Confidence and Grace

If you’re commuting to work, or even just trying to get to dinner or traveling to check out a new bakery, you will be confronted with many other NYC dwellers on a mission to get to their destination. Moreover, there will be cars rushing to cross the street or turn a corner before the light turns red. Not to mention the bikers racing around in all directions.

It’s okay to get frazzled and frustrated! Take a moment for yourself.

And then try to remember:

You’re amongst fellow humans just trying to do their thing, albeit in a rushed manner.
You don’t have to be the fastest walker.
You can let people pass you at intersections.
You can model the grace you hope to see in others.
You can be late to dinner and explain that the Subway was too packed, so you waited for the next one.
Finding Peace at Home

Yes, your new apartment might be much smaller than what you’re used to, but there’s still a way to make it feel homey. This might be key to allowing yourself to recharge after busy days and nights.

We encourage you to:

Frame and hang some favorite photos with friends and family.
Stock your cupboard with some comfort snacks. Maybe you can always have plenty of your favorite relaxing tea in your cabinet.
Light a candle with a scent that brings back good memories.
Invest in nice window shades that help you sleep in the dark at night.
Allow yourself a piece of decor that brings joy. Perhaps a beautiful vase that can serve as a water pitcher or hold flowers.

Making Connections

You will most likely meet a variety of people in New York City. Some already have a large group of friends to join, while others may only know a few coworkers. Either way, you will meet and befriend new people. If you’re searching for connections, we encourage you to think about the kinds of activities you want to participate in.

Here are a few ways to make some new connections:

Free gallery exhibition openings.
Bumble BFF. You can check off a new coffee spot or wine bar on your friend date!
Asking your home friends if they know anyone you might get along with in the city. Family friends might come in handy here, too.
Book clubs or talks.

Once you’ve established these connections, you’ll have to manage your busy schedules to keep up with each other and share new experiences together.
Remember

While New York City is one of the most populated cities, many people encounter feelings of loneliness. Sometimes you can sit with that discomfort and take yourself on a solo date at a swanky restaurant bar, but sometimes you will want support and connection. Make use of your support system, even if they’re in a different country. It’s okay to have a night in FaceTiming your childhood best friend.

You might also find that this life transition is a good time to find support through therapy.

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Thinking About Starting Therapy?

If you’re considering therapy, we’d love to support you.

Submit a contact form or email us at hello@gluckcollective.com to get started.Feel free to explore our services menu and specialties to see if we click.

AtGluck Psychology Collective, we offer in-person and virtual therapy across NYC for anxiety, burnout, relationships, life transitions, trauma, self-worth, and identity development.

It is our goal to make therapy as affordable and accessible as possible —we are in-network with Aetna and offer reduced rate therapy as well.

If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Let’s talk about it.

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