I’ve seen it a lot, Emma, that many people are apt to try jumping into relationships quickly after a move to a new place. I am sympathetic to people who crave connection; it’s an instinct after all, and the modern world isolates us in unnatural ways. But I agree with you that the habit is a risky cop-out. When we enter relationships based on a sense of need and lack, there’s a lot of potential to sell ourselves short, not even to mention the potential to place unfair expectations on our partners. I hope that you adjust happily to your new job and new place (or, if you don’t, that you reach a point where you can feel comfortable taking a new direction!) and that when the possibility for a life partnership presents itself, you can be confident that you’re starting your relationship for the healthiest of reasons. Kudos to you for coming to this epiphany!