#1. Don't go at it alone:
-Take advantage of military and civilian resources that are available to you.
- Ask other military families about their experience and available resources in your new community.
#2. Get organized and prepare for your move:
- Start preparing as soon as you receive written or verbal orders.
- Being organized helps to reduce the level of stress for you and your family.
#3. Assess your and/or your families situation and needs:
- To help your kids stay positive, make a list and discuss the things you are looking forward to.
- Review your financial situation (debt and cost of living needs) and establish a budget.
- Determine housing cost at your new location (contact me for a relocation package).
- Ensure your personal affairs information is up to date (i.e. wills, power of attorney).
- Determine child care, school aged children, and adult educational needs.
- Remember, overseas moves are more complex, so allow yourself enough time and get the resources you need to address unique concerns.
#4. Develop a plan and checklist:
- As we learn in the military, a plan must be executed; establish a system to execute your plan; use a notebook, a planning device or pre-established checklists.
- Create excitement, involve the entire family in the planning process for your new duty station.
#5. Establish a schedule:
- Be optimistic yet realistic; don't try to do everything at once. Break larger task into smaller components. Spreading smaller task over a longer period of time makes things more manageable.
- Remain flexible. Our military lifestyle teaches us that even the best made plans can change. Remaining open to change and new opportunities will create a more positive experience.
#6. Household goods:
- Inventory and photograph your belongings just in case you need to file a claim (let's hope not).
- Determine requirements for storage, moving pets, and vehicles.
#7. Don't forget to make time for family and individual needs and emotions:
- Talk it out! Make the time to sit down as a family and discuss your feelings about the move.
- Keep familiar patterns or routines as much as possible; familiarity provides security.
- Make it a fun by incorporating fun activities along the way.
#8. Say Good-byes:
- As we know, we meet many good friends along the way. It's important to say good-bye and express feelings of sadness so you can move on emotionally as well as physically.
- Keep an eye on the children...moving can be especially traumatic for them. Help children to meet new teachers and friends at their new location.
#9. Welcome to your new home:
- Along with meeting your new military family, be sure to meet your new neighbors.
- Get up, get out, and get involved! The best way to overcome loneliness is to be around people and to quickly put down roots in your new location.
#10: MAKE THE BEST OF YOUR NEW ASSIGNMENT:
- Each assignment provides you with a chance to meet new people and explore new opportunities. Don't allow circumstances to impact the great things that await you; make the best of each day!
|