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Moving needn't bring loneliness |
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By Donetta Harrison » It's hard enough dealing with the turmoil of moving home but moving to a new country, where you know no one, makes it even harder. How do you handle those first few weeks and months in a new country? Here are some tips that might help.
- You may not want to be best friends with your neighbours but it is important to have a good relationship with them. Greet them when you meet them - whether in the elevator or out in the front yard - and strike up a polite conversation. The weather is always a good subject. In time, you can be more forthcoming, telling them as much as you are comfortable revealing.
- If you meet someone regularly who you think might be good to have as a family friend, invite them over one morning, one afternoon and one evening. Keep it simple - just ask them over for coffee and a snack.
- Think about your interests and hobbies and look for a local organization or club where you can go to meet like minded people.
- It will be tempting to stay indoors and hide yourself away but please don't! Get out everyday. If you don't run/jog go for a walk instead. Greet the people you meet - make eye contact and smile. Canadians are a friendly lot, and a pleasant demeanour goes a long way!
- Look at the local newspaper to see what is going on. There are always requests for help, usually on a volunteer basis. If you see a request for something you can do - volunteer.
- Look out for other new people moving into your street or in your apartment building and go across and say hello.
- If you have a partner, encourage them to follow steps 1-6 to expand your network of contacts.
- Don't lose touch with your old friends back home. Stay in touch with them by email, letter or phone. It feels good to know you have friends when you are lonely.
- Know that we need to give out to the world that which we would like to receive back. If you want to be befriended you must also be prepared to be a friend.
- Guard your attitude. You can choose to view your move as a trial to be borne and suffered or you can view it as a great adventure - the choice is yours.
Attitude really is everything - stay bright and positive, join in and don't wait for people to contact you. Give your new country a fair run and don't be tempted to scurry back to your old stomping ground too soon.
Get to know your neighbourhood - ask questions of the person who sold or let your accommodation to you - and don't put yourself at risk. Save an ICE (In Case of Emergency) telephone number on your mobile telephone and be sensible without being fearful - there really are a lot more good people out there than bad!
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