Moving to a brand new city and starting university has to be one of the most exciting, significant and perhaps even scary moments of your life so far. Throw in the mix everything we have all been through in the last couple of years on top, from pandemics to the unprecedented use of the word unprecedented, and you have a real cocktail of change!
So… We wanted to pull together some thoughts on the thing that might just be your greatest constant over the next few months – and that is change itself. Your ability to navigate transition and roll with the season might just be a key factor to making the most of your time at university.
Here are our essential keys to navigating change.
Focus on what you can control (not what you can’t)
When change happens around us, it often gives us a sense of not being in control. As frustrating as this can be, our instinct is often to be drawn to the external which lies outside of our control.
Instead, start to think about what you do have control over. You might not be able to change everything in your favour but you can control your response to what’s happening around you.
Your attitude and your mentality are within your control. Focusing on what you can change creates a positive mental loop that leads to practical solutions and a better sense of well-being overall.
Celebrate the old but not at the expense of the new
Moving away from home can have all sorts of emotional reactions. In particular, the sense of nostalgia and missing old friends and haunts can affect us all. But don’t let that stop you from creating new friendship groups and getting to know a brand new city.
Avoid the temptation to visit the family home every weekend and instead put some roots down with the people around you who may well just turn out to become your next best mates. You’ll never know unless you put yourself out there.
Take the pressure off being perfect
It’s a brand new season and you’d be surprised how much mental energy is required to do new things. It takes time to get to know the local hotspots and to find your daily rhythms. Even being productive takes time. Give yourself time to settle in and you’ll find yourself enjoying uni life much more.
Find your new local rhythm
There’s so much to explore in the city of York, complete with new surroundings to get used to. Why not head out for a walk from time to time to get to know your locality? Every city has a different feel and this one is no different. Enjoy your time here!
You should already have your copy of our guide to Yorks Hidden Gems (if not, click here), full of everything from artisan coffee to gorgeous gardens and indie cocktails. Download it, explore it, and find your new favourite place!
We hope you enjoy your time in York! Make yourself at home.
The Global Church crew x
P.S. If you are on the hunt for a church in York, want more in life or just a great community to be a part of (all or three!) we would love to meet you.
We meet every week at Manor School in York at 10.30 am on Sunday, for our Global Church Live, which you are welcome to check out – don’t worry, we will pick you up! If you want to know more, use this link so one of the Global Crew can get in touch and book a coffee or beer with you soon!