Why should I continue to live here in Pennsylvania? It was the question that stopped me in my tracks.

I had recently lost my Human Resources job and had just received my certification to become a Life Coach. I had moved Pennsylvania because of the job I no longer had. I knew I could build my coaching business anywhere. But where?

I was 60. Born the first official year of the Baby Boomer generation and ready for the next phase of my life. Of course, I considered where I had lived before, where my daughters were, where my friends were. None of those areas seemed to be right.

Having lived in Rochester, New York for most of my adult life, I dreamed of moving to a warmer climate; someday. I figured I would get a Human Resources job that would get me there; someday.

With no HR position in sight, I knew I was at a cross road. I loved my house, but without my former income--it was too expensive for me to maintain. Yes, I had moved before, but this was the first time I didn’t have a good reason.

Was it enough of a reason to move simply--because I want to? It seemed so selfish. Suppose I picked the wrong place? Being single, I couldn’t blame it on my partner or anyone else. The weight of total accountability was like a ton of bricks.

In the end I had to do it. I spent several weeks to identify my top five choices and planned a two week exploration tour. When I saw Asheville, NC, I knew I was home. Three months later, I was there.

Do you have what it takes to not only survive a major move—but thrive in your new community? Here are four qualities you need to bring with you.

Risk taking

You wouldn’t even consider a move without having an adventuresome spirit. Relocating is like going through an earthquake; there is nothing to hold onto. Everything in your world will be shaken up for a time. So why put yourself through this? You will experience enormous personal growth as well as the satisfaction to achieve a life you have dreamed about.

Inner guidance system (IGS)

Sure, money is a big factor in any major move. Is there something missing in your life now? Can you visualize what you’d like your new life to include? What does your new home look like? Describe your ideal community. Let your heart lead the way.

Faith

What happened when you had a gut feeling and didn’t follow it? You will be spending significant time in the space between what is no longer and what is next. Can you make a decision and hold on as you ride the waves to your future?

Resilience

At times it may seem over whelming, but you have enough determination to get the pieces of your life back together one by one. Some things may be easier—finding a grocery store, a bank, a gas station. Finding a new doctor and church may take some trial and errors. Stick with it—there are good people everywhere.

You are in the middle of an extreme life make-over. Hang on, it will all be worth it.