To Move or Not to Move

Have you ever felt like you could have a successful career if you were in a different city? Do you feel as though your "dream job" isn't the one that you are currently in? Is it possible that you are jeopardizing your career by not relocating? These are all valid questions that only you can answer and if you're not sure of the answers, pondering these questions isn't such a bad idea. I have read articles listing the best places to find employment, the best states to purchase homes, and even the fastest growing cities. As I absorbed this information, I realized that there are places in this country that offer better-better career options, better quality of life, and better housing options. Life for many of us is good, but in order to have better, we sometimes have to leave our comfort zone, which includes changing our immediate geographic surroundings.

In speaking with a friend recently, he'd decided that he wanted better. He'd looked for employment in his then current demographic and found employment, but with limited growth opportunities and limited monetary compensation. As he searched for jobs in other cities, he realized that he needed to do things differently if he really wanted different results. Ultimately, he found a job in another state, earning more and obtaining a position with a company that offered more opportunity for growth. It isn't always easy to leave your family, to leave your friends, and to leave that which is comfortable. I decided for many years to stay close to home and when I relocated 3 years ago, it was the best decision that I could have made for my professional career. Of course, my story isn't the same as everyone else's, but if you have the opportunity to succeed elsewhere, it's worth pursuing.

Relocation can occur internationally, in the same country, or even in the same state. Should you decide that you want to pursue other career options outside of where you currently reside, perhaps your company offers relocation packages. This is free money that your employer will provide when you are offered a role elsewhere within the company. Sometimes you are required to pay relocation funds back should you leave your employer within a certain amount of time, so please check your company's relocation policy to ensure that it is feasible for you. You may be pleasantly surprised! Having a relocation strategy is a must and should include the following if you are contemplating a move: researching the new city's climate, culture, and cost of living; a relocation budget detailing amounts that you will need to pay out of pocket; and potential job opportunities in your new location. The question to consider is simply this-to move or not to move? The answer can only come from you and you owe it to yourself to seriously ponder your options. After all, good is the enemy of better and being your best self should always be a goal.