There are so many things to consider and questions to contemplate when asking yourself if you should move and set up shop somewhere else. Relocating for a job is not only possible, it is done all the time. Since the economic downturn, Americans have been forced to face their financial futures head-on.
If your job is not paying you enough or the cost-of-living is too high where you are, you have to consider moving. Ask yourself the following questions before agreeing to relocate for a job.
1. Do the pros outweigh the cons?
Either the advantages will outweigh the disadvantages, or the other way around. Make a list weigh the positive against the negative. Often, when we can see facts in black and white, they become more real rather than just a notion in our heads. This will make your decision easier.
2. Am I only relocating for more money?
Chances are, the reason you are considering relocation is because you've been offered more money. The old expression "money cannot buy happiness" is quite true. According to the American Psychological Association, many members of the upper-class are miserable.
Though you might make more money in a different location, it does not guarantee anything -- rather it should raise more questions on whether or not the move is wise.
3. Will I enjoy my new job?
There is an old adage that if you love what you do, you will never have to work another day in your life.
Imagine yourself in your new position. How is the new commute? Are you conversing with your new co-workers and communicating effectively with your new boss? Can you accomplish everything that needs to be done daily? Rather than believing it before you see it, see it to believe it.
4. Will this relocation help or hurt my family?
Though it is said change is good, sometimes altering an already content situation could be a bad move. If relocation is not good for one family member, it can be bad for all.
While you are considering your own growth, you should consider your family's development as well -- especially if you are married with children.
- Since your spouse's employment is just as important as yours, especially if you depend on two sources of income, can you afford your spouse not finding a new job immediately?
- After you have seen a future career for you and your significant other, it is time to consider moving kids. Even if you don't have children now, you may have them in the future. Research the school district and safety of the neighborhood playgrounds.
- Discuss the move with your family. Talk about the true reality of the change since culture shock could rock your family's world.
5. How does the cost of living compare with where I am now?
It won't matter if you make more money if the cost of living in your new location is higher. Research the new region's real estate market, average utility costs and food prices. Compare these to your present community and current income to know if you can successfully survive in that area.
6. Does the company have a solid and successful future?
Research the business that pays your bills and see that they will remain successful -- your future depends on it.
Once you have found out the company is not going anywhere, then you can ask yourself if there's a career ladder you can successfully climb, or does relocating mean staying stuck in the same position? Without promotion, there is no growth on a personal level or financially. Find out from your employer how long you will be in the present position before you can step onto the next ladder rung.
7. Will I live close to the company or should I commute?
If you decide to relocate, remember that you don't have to live in the exact region your job is located. If you are not happy with the location, seek out adjacent areas that you and your family can find happiness in. It is better to commute a short distance daily than working a long day, hating the idea of going home.
Research crime rates in the region before you purchase or rent a property to ensure you feel comfortable in your new home. No matter how much money you make, your life and the lives of your family are priceless, so do not put them in jeopardy over a job.
8. How will I pay for the move?
If it is a local move, chances are you will be driving to your new address. However, if it is a long distance move, you might have to fly and ship your vehicle. It will all depend on whether your employer is picking up the relocation tab and how much money you have to work with. Either way, moving and saving money is possible if you plan well ahead of time.
Moving your household in an organized and efficient manner can turn it into an experience of a lifetime. With the right attitude, relocating to a new region for your job can wind up being the best thing that ever happened to you and your family.
Though we would like to believe it all works out in the end, sometimes it just doesn't. Life circumstances can sometimes become so complicated that the only answer is to rethink the route in front of you. If relocating turns out to be the worst move you have ever made, remember it is not the end. As long as you and your family have your health, happiness will find its way back into your future no matter where you live.