Moving to a new country isn’t easy. If you go as a student, you’ll have a lot of structured ways to learn about the place and settle in. But if you go for work or to be with a partner, you’ll have to make your own way socially to a greater degree. To build a new life, you have to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Here’s a few ideas on how to get out and create your new social life independent of work or your partner.
• Language exchange: If you are a native English speaker in an area where English is not a primary language, you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding people who would like to learn. You can join an existing group or start your own to trade conversation in English for conversation in the local language. And if you speak a bit of Irish and find yourself in the US, Canada or Australia, odds are that people in the Irish diaspora community would love some informal lessons.
• Volunteer: If you want to meet really good people, volunteer to do something good. Find a local animal shelter, soup kitchen, neighbourhood clean-up group or whatever and get stuck in. You’ll be surrounded by people who are making an effort to help others. They will no doubt make an effort to help you learn how things work locally.
• Sports: If you are an active type, you can find a local sports group or team to join. Whether it is a competitive team or a few folks who kick a ball around in a pick up game at the park after work, sports can break the ice. Even if you aren’t sporty, a walking group is a great way to get out and learn about the area while making new friends.
• Classes: If you have the language skills, you can take a class. You don’t have to be a university student to take a craft or gardening class – and you’ll learn far more than what is being officially taught. It’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
The older we are, the more our peers have established social lives. That means that if we move to a near area, we’re going to have to get out there and make a deliberate effort to meet people and develop a social life. It isn’t always easy. The first couple attempts might not work out. But if you keep getting up and getting out, you’ll learn lots about your new home and even more about yourself.
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