I have written before about how challenging it can be for a single parent to balance work and family obligations and ambition. We want to do what is best for our selves and our families and it can be tough to figure out what comes first and how to fit everything in. Many single parents eventually face the challenging issue of deciding whether or not to move or relocate to take a better job, go to school, or make other major life changes. For a single parent who might have custody realities to contend with, as well as trying to do what is best for a child who has already experienced loss—this can be a very big deal.
Moving and relocating are stressful—even if it for a great job or a fabulous opportunity. For a child, leaving a comfortable situation where they know the house and neighborhood, having to change schools, or increasing the distance between the other parent and family can be very painful and cause considerable angst. For a single parent, leaving behind a familiar world and support system to go someplace “unknown” all on your own, it can also be scary and anxiety-ridden. It can be tough to figure out what is the right thing to do!
Likely, everyone will have opinions on the matter—wanting to tell you what they think is best or right, but deep down, the decision will be yours. You will have to weigh out what is best for the family both short-term and long-term, and keep your child’s best interest at the center of things. The child’s (or children’s) age, temperament, and your family history should all be taken into consideration.
It can seem like there are limited options or choices when relocation has presented itself. It is important to try to keep things in perspective and consider all the options. Try to take some time to think things through, weigh the pros and cons, consider the custody agreements, and get in touch with your intuition and gut instinct. A major change often takes a combination of practical consideration and intuition.
Also: Balancing Security and Ambition for the Single Parent
Expect Your Financial Picture to Change