Got a job offer in a new city but you’re happy in your current one? As yourself these questions first:
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Will the new opportunity open doors for you in the long-run? I used to live in New York and I loved it. I worked for an awesome company that was based in San Francisco but was lucky enough to work for them in New York. I loved my job, city and had zero desire to move. Ever. New York was my jam (and honestly, still is). However, I switched teams, started to take on even more responsibility at my company, and it was becoming increasingly harder to do my job from New York. With most of the team in San Francisco, I was missing valuable opportunities to collaborate with my colleagues and operate efficiently. When I was asked if I’d be open to moving to San Francisco, I was reluctant. But, I also knew that moving was going to many more doors for me in the long-run professionally. I also knew that if I hated it I could always come back to New York. So, I packed up my tiny walk-up apartment and moved into a much larger one in San Francisco with a dishwasher (the dream). From a professional standpoint, I’m glad I made the move. Personally, I miss New York but I know I’ll make it back there eventually with a whole new skillset under my belt. And, I’ve really enjoyed having a dishwasher.
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What’s the financial risk? Moving is expensive. And, it only gets more expensive as you get older and accumulate more things and people. If your company is relocating you, awesome. If they aren’t, take into account how much it costs to move and decide whether or not it’s worth it. And, consider the worst case scenario. Let’s say you get to your new city (relocation package or not) and you just hate it. While I am a firm believer in giving a place at least a year to adapt, I’ve also been in scenarios where sometimes the city isn’t your place and you’ve got to get out. Be prepared for that scenario and assess whether or not you can financially move again. It will make you feel a lot less anxious about the change.
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Does the idea of moving to a new city scare you, but in a good way? If the answer is yes, then you should probably move especially if you’re in a situation where you have very little responsibility. When I was in my twenties with no husband or real adult responsibilities, I grabbed every opportunity I could to move somewhere new. During that time, I lived in 9 cities across 5 countries. Living in different places has shaped so much of who I am today and has opened many doors for me in my professional life. So, if you’re in a situation where you can go for it and the answer to #1 is yes and the answer to #2 is low, then well, go for it.