The Newcomer's Guide to New York City

Every year, thousands of people move into New York City. Thousands move out too, but that's not important. It's you—the newest New Yorker—who’s important right now.

But before you get too settled into your new life in the Big Apple (also, don't call it that), read on for some knowledge, tips, and perspective on navigating New York as a newcomer. This city isn't quite as scary as it can sometimes seem to first-timers, but life here will be a lot easier, and a lot more fun if you get a few things figured out ASAP.

Walk for fun.

New York City is great in part because it's so huge, yet so easy to navigate. Sure, the subway isn't exactly dazzling people these days, but it's still quite easy to get from Manhattan to Brooklyn and back again. New Yorkers are always hopping in cabs and Ubers or onto subway trains.

But New York City is also very walkable. And walking around your neighborhood is a great idea. It will give you more time to appreciate the details that make New York City so unique. It will help orient you in the big city. And it just might lead you to the door of your new favorite after-work place for drinks or food.

Join the team.

There are lots of clubs and activities in New York City. So join one! Get into trivia, join the softball team, or start volunteering. Treat your first year in New York City like your freshman year of college, and deliberately seek out small group activities where you'll be able to socialize. It will make it much, much easier to get to know a few of the eight and a half million strangers that will be here when you arrive.

Watch out for your mental health.

This piece of advice could be useful anywhere. Far too many of us are doing far too little to care for our mental health. While most Americans are pretty good about visiting the doctor or treating physical illnesses, lots of Americans neglect their mental health and possible mental illnesses.

And in New York City, there are so many stresses, and so many great mental health resources that it would be especially silly to ignore your mental health. So pay close attention to how you're feeling. Check in with yourself. Give yourself some breaks. Maintain your work-life balance as best you can in this busy place. And visit a mental health professional every once in a while.

A therapist can be a huge help as you navigate New York for the first time, even if you don't suffer from depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issues. Therapy can give you great insights into your own thoughts and behaviors, explain the pros at NYC Therapy Group. It can do everything from make you a better romantic partner to help you handle your emotions when the subway doors close in your face.

Don't take the mystique too seriously.

If you blow into New York City from some place less famous and dazzling, it's easy to be intimidated. And New Yorkers love to feed into this stuff: they're quick to decry other places and show off their own cred as a "real" New Yorker.

Don't buy too much into this stuff. New Yorkers can get lost in New York. Sometimes we swipe the Metrocard, and the stupid machine doesn't read it. New Jersey is much nicer than people say. As great as New York City is, it's just a place. And every New Yorker is a real New Yorker. Now, you are too!