Whether you’re a freshman in college and new to the city or a graduating senior who’s about to live alone, city life can be hectic and overwhelming. At times, it can feel like you’re drowning in a sea of people with no one to turn to. Other times, the city can revive you and make you feel invincible. For when those low moments hit, here are seven tips for making city life a little more manageable.
1. Remember to call home.
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Your parents are probably just as nervous are you are about moving away from home and they’ll be happy to hear about your experiences. Hearing their voices over the phone might even help you feel a little less homesick. It is a great way to bring a little bit of home to the hectic city days.
2. Find local restaurants.
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Find at least three nearby restaurants that you like. Even if you’re a student living in a dorm, this still applies to you. There are going to be days where the thought of eating dining hall food will make you sick and you’ll be glad to know a few local restaurants. For those seniors who will be living on their own soon, these restaurants will come in handy when you’re not in the mood to cook.
3. Learn the ins and outs of public transportation.
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\When you’re living in a city like Boston, driving around can be more trouble than it’s worth. You’re way better off using public transit! It can be confusing to understand at first, but with a little time, you’ll soon come to appreciate it. Downloading a transit app, which clearly shows the routes and arrival times of trains, will be a huge help.
4. Explore the city.
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Get out of your dorm or apartment and explore! Visit local parks, museums, and cafes. All of this will make the city feel a little more like home. Find some spots that you like and visit them often. It will be nice to have a place to go to when you want to get away from campus or your apartment.
5. Find a new hobby.
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Moving to a new place is the perfect time to also get involved in something new. College campuses are full of opportunity and are a great place to try something new. Want to start hiking, learn photography, or maybe even play a sport? There’s definitely a club for you to join. Even after college, you can find a group within your community for virtually anything you like to do.
6. Practice self-care.
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Schedule some relaxation time into your busy schedule. Do something that allows you unwind. Whether it be watching Netflix and doing a face mask or going for a run, make some “me-time”. The city can be overwhelming sometimes and you’re going to need to step back and relax.
7. Don’t sweat it.
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So maybe living on your own isn’t what you thought it would be, and that’s okay. Adjusting will take some time, but you will get there. Don’t beat yourself up if you’re not where you thought you’d be by now. Relax, take a deep breath, and remember to keep your head up.
When the city gets overwhelming, (and it will!) it’s good to have a routine to fall into. Hopefully, these seven tips will help you feel a little less anxious about living on your own in such a big place.
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