Moving to new places and learning more about yourself is tons of fun, but sometimes it can feel a bit strange living in an unfamiliar location.
It may take a while to become acclimated to your new house, especially if you’re renting. It isn’t easy to see an apartment as home at first if you only plan on living there for a couple of years.
But it doesn’t matter how long we plan to live somewhere; what matters is how we perceive our home. If you see your house in a negative light, you’re not allowing yourself the chance to be happy there. It’s all about perception. Learn the four ways to make your new house feel like home.
Meet Your Neighbors
Going out and meeting your neighbors will help you to adjust to your new environment. You’ll not only make new friends, but you’ll also learn how to get to know your neighborhood directly from the locals.
A great way to make your new house more familiar is by taking a walk around the neighborhood and introducing yourself to your new neighbors to initiate a friendship. Breaking out of your comfort zone and starting a conversation will help you feel more welcomed and comfortable in your new home.
Adopt a Pet
Pets add extra love and snuggles to your home, which can help you feel more relaxed.
These sweet friends help us heal, especially when we’re anxious or weary. Visit your local shelter to adopt your furry companion. Chances are, as you try to help them become comfortable in their new home, you’ll start to feel more content with your surroundings too.
Your new house will feel like home if you already have a pet because home is where the heart is!
Improve Your Lighting
Fluorescent lighting can be helpful in some cases, but this type of lighting can make the whole space feel uninviting and eerie when one is in a new place.
Every morning, open your windows to let the sun shine in your home. Exposure to sunlight releases the serotonin hormone in our brains. In addition, hanging up string lights can add more warmth to your home by giving the room a soft, comfy glow.
Hang Up Pictures of Family & Friends
A great way to instantly make your space feel familiar is by hanging up photos of all your loved ones. Seeing your family and friends’ faces will help you relax and maybe even encourage you to give them a call. Leaning on your support system is okay and will help you to feel closer to home.
Now that you’re in your new space, give yourself time to get used to your surroundings and be patient. It can be a long process, but it’ll be worth it when you invite your friends over and say, “welcome to my home!”
Whenever you feel a little lost, remember that only you can make your new house feel like home. If you’re happy where you are, that’s all that matters.
