How to Build a Support System After Moving: 3 Simple Tips (Okinawa & Beyond)

Let’s face it, moving sucks. Having to uproot your life when you’re a full-fledged adult is hard. All the people you had to leave behind (or maybe, you’re glad to have some breathing room from them). Having to relearn how to make friends and find community takes time, and in this day and age, who has time for that?

But, actually, it’s really important that you make effort to finding your support and community in your new location, one step at a time.

For me I’ve lived in 3 countries and a handful of cities. Currently it’s been 20 months since moving to Okinawa, Japan, and it has its fair share of challenges, but also joyful surprises, too.

Here are 3 tips to building a support system in Okinawa, Japan or wherever you are:

1. initiate conversation with anyone (and follow up)

   Whether you’re out on a walk or shopping, strike up a conversation (in English or Japanese). Courage speaks volumes. Afraid of misspeaking? You will. Just this past week, I said the japanese word for eraser, when I meant to say trash box…it’s okay, it might feel embarrassing, but you’ll live.

2. use online resources strategically

   it’s true that okinawa island runs on facebooK, but as you speak with someone in-person, they can be your expander/connection person if you’re limiting time on social media.

   check eventbrite for local happenings and attend an event!

   CHECK MCCS Calendar of Events or download the MCCS Liberty App

   Check USO Okinawa events.

   Facebook groups to check out: Making Female Friends in Okinawa, Ladies of Kadena, Okinawa Military Spouse Entrepreneurs, Kadena Air Base Community, Okinawa International Community, Okinawa Wellbeing Collective

   pro tip: reserve 2 tickets for an event and invite a new friend to join you

3. make time to (re)discover your interests

   You may feel really doubtful of your path, your worth and your why. that’s normal because you’ve been through major transitions, personally and/or professionally.

   Use this time to attend cultural events, solo or with a new friend, check out a new coffee shop, visit a “power spot,” get a massage, learn pottery, piano or Japanese, or volunteer.

That may feel overwhelming. It’s okay. Take it easy. Breathe more than do. Check in with yourself.

I’m a champion of counseling and coaching to help build support system.

I meet regularly with my counselor and coach, and if you’re looking for personalized support, in-person in Okinawa or online worldwide, I’m here for you. Send me a message. Military discount available.

My aim is to help you feel more clear, calm and connected through transitions.