Relocating your life while relocating your lab
08/01/2020 / General help and advice / posted by Jane Wood
As laboratory relocation specialists we deal with the physical removal of assets, research samples, equipment and chemicals for our clients. But sometimes in addition to relocating their lab, our clients are relocating their life; packing up their work and their home and family for a new start elsewhere.
Our experience has given us some insight into the effect this can have, and strategies to help post-relocation.
Moving is one of the great stresses of modern life, but moving home, country and employment all at one time is undoubtedly a traumatic experience.
Experience shows that you will be happier and settle more quickly if you were totally responsible for the decision to relocate. If you were persuaded, by an employer or family member, you may become resentful of the party who persuaded you when things go even slightly wrong.
If you feel despondent, your family, friends and work colleagues will be aware of it. To avoid this you can take proactive steps to build your own life in your new location, and to make your own friendships. During the first few weeks after relocation people will be kind and go out of their way to help you settle in, but after this initial honeymoon period you will be left to your own devices.
You may be able to join clubs or organisations which existed in your previous town (Park Run, Rotary Club etc) but your new group may or may not resemble the one you have left behind. There will be new clubs to join, but try things that are genuinely of interest to you.
It can be a good idea to avoid long-term commitments for the first six months. When you join something new your absence will quickly be noted if you stop attending, and you may inadvertently burn your bridges.
Take advantage of what is unique about your new town – there will always be something special – and learn about its history.
Finally, expect to wait between six months to three years to feel completely settled in your new home, and if you feel that you have made a mistake, admit it; you can always go back!