Statistics say about 40 million Americans move out of their homes and in to new cities every year. Industry demands mobility of labor; and of course Americans never fall short. So, an average American changes home about five or six times in their lifetime. Apart from career opportunities, paucity of space in cities, and also the general American way of life contribute majorly to the huge moving population every year.

Moving has its own hassles, but with professional van-line companies stepping in to the scenario, moving has now become easy for everybody. Moving companies these days work hand in hand with storage and packing material companies. Everything, starting from packing to unpacking is done by the movers themselves. So, in a matter of hours the complete furnishings and other bric-a-bracs of a whole household is efficiently wrapped, packed, and transported to a new city.

Most people, also, take relocations in their stride-like they should, of course. They console themselves saying-it's only a matter of few months before I get settled; oh, it's such a great new city; anyway, I work almost 16 hours a day, when do I have time to bother; and such other excuses. If you still believe in these excuses, I suggest you come back and read this after you have relocated a couple more times. Relocation can amount to a lot of mental pressure and confusion. While a lot of people manage to maintain a straight face through the ordeal, it can have tremendous effect on a few others. Kids and teenagers, for instance, are very prone to culture shock.

I remember reading this line somewhere, "Men are social beings...." It sounds stupid and obvious, alright-but it carries a lot of meaning. Human brain develops its understanding, and its ways of reaction based on observation. You may not believe this, but everything, starting from how you talk to how you sleep is determined by a lot of external factors. Once you change places-sooner or later-the difference in patterns of behavior start registering in your mind. For your children learning the new ways of life is a wee bit easier, because several faculties of their brain remain active up to a certain age; while for you it may be very stressful and frustrating. On the other hand, children tend to have more long-standing repercussions of the culture shock.

There are huge cultural differences between the different cities and states in America. So, what can you do about it?

I would say start by taking your relocation in a slower manner. Start reading about the new city, gathering facts and information, tidbits about culture and traditions. Share this exercise with your children, there's no point keeping them in dark. Do a thorough research and find out a locality in your new city, which is similar to the place you've been living in. Most importantly, find a proper school for your children. Organize a farewell gathering at your old place and make sure you leave with happy memories.

Moving to a new place and extending your horizons is all very fine, but make it slow and steady.

Vidya Garapati (GV)

Movers.com Team
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