According to several different U.S. surveys, Americans move an average of 11.7 times in their lifetime. Perhaps you are dealing with this situation right now or you will be in the near future. When you have to pick yourself up and move to a new location it’s not an easy task to give up the security of your familiar surroundings, lifestyle and friendships. It may feel like your entire foundation is about to crumble and disappear.
It’s natural to have many concerns. I hope this article “The Artist’s Success Plan For Moving” makes it easier for you and more enjoyable.
Whether you’re moving across the country or from the suburbs to a major city (or vice versa) this article aims to minimize your fear of the unknown and feelings of isolation that often come with moving to a new environment.
One of my clients, named Sue, has been in the process of moving from one state to another several hundred miles away. This was a major change for her as she had to give up the security of her familiar surroundings, lifestyle and friendships. Naturally, she had a variety of concerns. Her situation called me into action to create the artist’s success plan for moving.
Focus on the Benefits
After you make the decision to move to a new place list all of the advantages and remind yourself about them whenever feelings of doubt or fear enter your mind. Make an accompanying list of all of the disadvantages of staying where you are.
I encouraged Sue to perceive this event as a journey of self-discovery and the potential for many positive benefits in her personal life, creativity and art business. She soon agreed and exclaimed, “You’re right. I can start with a blank canvas and paint my own future.”
Get Familiar
Visit the many websites and blogs of the country, state, city and county you’ll be living in to learn about the business, education, lifestyle and modes of transportation of the region. If possible, make several trips to your future location to familiarize yourself with it and its residents. Take guided tours if they’re offered.
Make Adjustments
If you’re moving from a large house to a small apartment, spend a few days in a smaller area in your home or a local hotel room to see how it feels as you adjust to the change of square footage.
Create New Art Plans
Reevaluate your creative, career and financial goals. Factor in the cost of living expenses as well as income sources that will require rewriting your art marketing plans and strategies. Read How to Create An Art Business Plan.
Downsize and Sell
Give yourself several months to downsize as this may cause feelings of anxiety when having to decide what belongings to keep, sell, donate and toss. This is a good time to plan some pre-moving art sales, open studio events and exhibitions.
Establish Your Network
Prior to the move, take time to further develop your social media connections with individuals and businesses that reside in your new region. Nourish and grow them into friendships and professional relationships, via Skype, text and email.
Be A Joiner
Before you move, become a member of art organizations and museums in the new city. Consider volunteer work where opportunities for making new meaningful acquaintances and a sense of purpose can be found.
Rent An Art Studio
If you plan to have a studio outside your living space, avoid delay in acquiring one, so you can get to work immediately.
Find A Good Broker
If you’re considering renting an apartment or plan to buy a house, having a good broker is essential. You’ll save time and effort and eliminate the confusion that may come from searching without one.
Use Helpful Apps
You can download apps and visit blogs that will help you organize your move and get adjusted once you do. Nextdoor is a free, private social network for your neighborhood.
In Conclusion
As emphasized in this article perception and preparation are the two important factors in the artist’s success plan for moving. It’s your choice: It can be traumatizing and painful or adventurous and liberating. Decide to make your new habitat your sacred space in which you can grow and evolve. Then, take the necessary steps that will make the transition enjoyable and rewarding.
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