As we prepare to bid farewell to 2020 and build hope for a better 2021, many Americans are considering a move in the new year. On average, 14% of Americans move in an average year, but, according to migration experts, that number is expected to jump to 20% in 2021. While the word “moving” strikes fear in the hearts of many, given this past year, moving in 2021 could improve the quality of both your physical and emotional health.
This past year was one marked by a rampant pandemic, social distancing, masking, shutdowns and quarantines. Although it was a horrendous time for everyone, it had at least one silver lining for many – realizing the importance of family. If you live far from your friends and family, this year’s quarantines were probably especially difficult for you. It’s one thing to be quarantined with the support of family nearby and the ability to visit even if separated by six feet, but it’s a whole different story to be isolated without that kind of familial support. That’s why moving could be just what the doctor ordered.
Consider the data coming out on the mental health effects of long lockdowns on America’s nursing homes. Long-term care facilities like these are responsible for 4 in 10 COVID deaths with more than 70,000 residents and staff dying of the virus this year. Experts and resident advocates have stated that lockdown is fueling a mental health crisis in the long-term care industry. Social isolation is detrimental for mental health regardless of age, so moving in 2021 to be closer to those you love could have the effect of improving your quality of life. This will be especially true if the COVID pandemic continues to cause lockdowns and isolation.
Given the pandemic and its widespread lockdowns, many businesses moved to a “work-from-home” setting with the aid of home offices, virtual meetings and more. Given the recent upswing in COVID cases, it doesn’t appear many people will be returning to the office anytime soon. The beauty of this situation is that you can work from anywhere! Have you always wanted to live in Seattle? Maybe you yearn for the mountains of Montana or the horse country of Texas. Whatever your wish, 2021 could be the perfect time to do what makes your heart sing. If COVID has taught us anything it’s that life is short and we need to live every moment to the absolute fullest. Maybe now is the time to start taking that dream and make it a reality.
The events of this past year caused many of us to vastly change our lifestyles, reorder our priorities and focus more on the love and support we get from friends and family. If you live far from your loved ones, or have always wished you lived in a different state, moving in 2021 could really help improve your quality of life.
