What You Need To Know Before You Quit Your Job & Move Across the Country

You aren’t happy with where you're living and you're dreaming of finally making that big move across the country. You're scared though. Scared of leaving the stability of your job and familiarity of your current city. Does this sound like you?

Don't be scared, you’re in your 20s so your whole life is ahead of you so quitting a job and moving is not world ending. I promise you it is really just the beginning of living within your purpose.

Truth is this was me at the beginning of 2021. I was burnt out, unhappy with where I was and itching for change. I moved from Columbus, Ohio to Dallas, Texas in September 2021 leaving behind my job at Frito-Lay as a Sales District Leader and some genuine friends. This was a life altering experience and while it was long term planned it felt like it all went so fast. I gave my two weeks notice in August and two weeks later I drove across the country with my loved ones and my Wheaten Terrier, Bruno in a U-Haul. I would describe this experience as beautiful chaos.

It was beautiful because it was the start of a new chapter for me. It was chaotic because I did not have a job lined up. In actuality, I was applying, interviewing, and cross-comparing job offers from September-October before I accepted my current position. I don’t recommend this but if you find yourself in a similar situation, I promise you it will work out. Trust the process, do not settle, and don't take the first offer thrown at you. A better total compensation package is coming.

I lived through this experience so I am here to break down exactly what you need to know to have a successful transition. There are four areas that you must focus on before making this big move: career planning, financial planning, logistics planning, physical and mental health planning.

Strategic Career Planning

1. Use your remaining PTO!

2. Schedule time to apartment shop before making the big move. If you need help, consider using an apartment locator.

3. Give your employer at least two weeks notice of your resignation.

4. Create a transition packet so you leave on good terms with your employer and set up the person who will fill your role with success.

5. Save yourself the stress and secure a job before moving. If you're struggling to find jobs in your desired location book a full time job search with me here. I will put together a curated list of 10 personalized job opportunities within your desired industry, work location, and positions of interest.

Financial Planning

1. Stack your money! Moving costs more than you think.

2. Research the cost of living in your new city to make sure your job offer is competitive enough. If not, negotiate your salary. If they are unwilling to negotiate, keep job searching.

3. Create a file with your pay stubs and offer letter. This will be important for showing proof of income for rentals.

4. Budget for upfront costs. Ex: Application fees, security deposits, etc.

5. Carefully review your lease BEFORE signing. If something doesn’t look right, seek legal advice.

Logistics Planning

1. Determine how you will bring all your stuff to your new home. Do you need to rent a Uhaul?

2. Collect boxes! If you think you have enough boxes, YOU DON’T! Pro Tip: Go to your local grocery store and ask for boxes. They have an unlimited availability of boxes in their back rooms.

3. Determine how you will get to your new home. Are you driving or flying and shipping your car?

4. If you’re driving, plan out which states you will stop in and research how much money you need to put aside for gas.

5. How will you be picking up your keys to your new place? Will they be left somewhere? Do you need to pick them up from a leasing office?

Physical & Mental Health Planning

1. Visit all your doctors and refill all your medications before quitting your job in case you have a lapse in health benefits.

2. People will doubt you and might even call your decision "impulsive" or "risky", but don't let their comments make you question your decision making nor your intuition.

3. Understand that things won't go perfectly. Trust the process.

4. Once you're settled in, consider joining a gym.

5. If you need more assistance and have the means, get a personal trainer and start seeing a therapist.

As 2021 comes to a close, I am proud of myself for choosing me and my happiness over everything, taking calculated risks, and for being me unequivocally. I am happy, healthy, and settled in. Now, what is your next move?

Stay Creative,

Lauren

If you enjoyed this article, read "2021 Holiday Gift Guide for Young Professionals" for insight on unique last minute Christmas Gifts.