Taking Time to Explore Your New Duty Station

You’ve navigated the move and now you are at your newest home. Maybe it’s temporary, maybe not? Hopefully your stuff has arrived, and if you are really efficient, maybe you have even unpacked.

You have a million things to do. Everyone who has ever moved with the military knows this. And those million things are all very important. But one thing that is also important is getting out and having fun. This part of your PCS usually falls to the bottom of the list. 

It’s time to reconsider enjoyment as an important part of the relocation process. Here are four reasons we thing everyone should make time to explore (and enjoy) their new duty station. 

1. Find what you already love.

It’s important to supplement your life with things and experiences that enrich you. It doesn’t matter what those things are. Taking time to explore can lead you to find things that make your heart happy. Like books? Seek out the area used bookstore and dig for treasures. Love to create art? Find the craft store so you can make sure you have everything you need to create. Love to take photos? Find the local areas that make the perfect backdrop for some pictures. Love a perfect grilled cheese? Get online and find the place that makes the best around. They don’t have to be big things, but even small reminders of the things you love can give you something to enjoy around your new home. 

2. Find something new to love. 

What seems to be the popular thing around your new duty station? Whatever it is, get out and try it! Everyone chatting about a great hiking trail or a new exercise studio that’s going to be the next big thing? Why not get out and try it? If we only ever stick to things we know and love, we close ourselves off from experiencing new things we might love just as much (or more.) Trying new things doesn’t have to be a long process. Taking a new exercise class can usually happen in under an hour. If something seems too new and intimidating for you to try alone, maybe keep reading. 

3. Meet new people.

So you did some exploring and you’re interested in trying something new. But maybe you’re not comfortable going alone. This is the perfect time to introduce yourself to that girl in Zumba who told you about that great hiking trail outside of town. Experiencing new things is how you create friendships. Maybe she can give you some tips, drive with you to the trail, and help you experience an incredible view of the area. And if you hit it off, maybe you can do other cool things. And then all of a sudden, you have a great new friend! We know it’s not that magical in real life, but it’s important to build a support system, and making new friends is part of that.

4. Create precious memories. 

Whatever feelings you have about your new duty station are always subject to change.  While you might not love it now, you’d be surprised how much making great memories can change that. Never miss an opportunity to experience, take pictures, do new things, explore, and find the good in any situation. Things will change, it’s the only constant and the memories you shape now will carry you through all the challenges that military families face. 

Do you have any tips or tricks for exploring and enjoying your new duty stations? What do you do to fill your heart up when you’re in a new place? Let us know in the comments below!