When facing your first big move, it is normal to be apprehensive. Usually, the first thoughts that come to mind are the things you will lose. Things like friendships, family, and your sense of security are all things you may part with, but it is only temporary because there is more to gain when you move away.

Here you are, in a new town where you do not know anyone. You are taken out of your comfort zone and put in an unfamiliar place. Being alone is a scary feeling, but this is the time to focus on yourself. Moving gives you the opportunity to discover, reinvent, and grow into the person you have always aspired to be. All the mistakes you have made in the past reside in your old town and no longer define you. You can move on from them, learn to be confident and most importantly love yourself again.

As for friendships, whoever said that they come and go was not lying. When you leave your friends, many empty promises are made. These include, but are not limited to "we will talk every day", or "I will visit you as soon as possible", and even "distance will not change a thing." Sadly, the harsh truth is, distance changes everything. You will go from talking frequently, to communicating maybe once or twice a month. Eventually, you will not talk at all. The only communication you may have with old friends is indirect and through social media posts. People you have had in your life for five to even fifteen years become strangers to you. In some cases, there is still that one amazing friend who still makes an effort to check up on you. To them, you may be out of sight but you are not out of mind.

The most exciting factor about moving is getting to meet new people. In time, you make new friends, and these are the people that will help you cope and adjust from the move. They become your backbone and make you wonder how you ever got by in life without them. Most importantly, these friends will make you feel like you are finally home.

Lastly, the culture shock you may experience can be exhilarating. Take advantage of this and dive into your surroundings. Get to know your new home. Try new foods, go sight-seeing, discover the history of the town, and learn what makes it different. Appreciate the culture and what it has to offer, and you will never want to leave.

No one said moving was easy, but the personal benefits are abundant. Saying goodbye to your past and hello to a new life is refreshing. Although your hometown will always be your first home, that does not mean it will be your last.