Surviving Outside of Your Hometown
Photo Credit: Shutterstock / Ground Picture
By: Jordan King
If you are thinking about moving out of your home town this is your sign to take a chance and do it. What does it mean to be from a particular place or space? Also, how is it that we can understand where we’re from if we’re not able to ever see beyond our physical or even personal boundaries? In learning and understanding, both ourselves and others, having a chance to see more of where you come from will always result in a profound impact on your overall journey.
Being able to relate to others is an important characteristic to have during any stage of life, especially if you plan on moving to a new place. Of course, we will learn and gain many perspectives from our natural environment just by growing up and being exposed to things through family and friends. But seeing different ways of life in other cities, states, or even countries also allows us to learn new views and see life through a new lens.
We truly are the sum of both what we learn as well as our collective experiences. As we form into ourselves through our different paths and journeys, there will be times we interact with others from different places and regions than we find familiar. Having a bank of various experiences and interactions with people from different places with different ways of living and beliefs fosters a sense of connectivity between you and those you meet along your journey.
Interacting with people from diverse backgrounds is enriching, but it also requires cultural sensitivity. Understanding and respecting different perspectives is crucial for meaningful connections in new environments.
Home will always be where the heart is. Loyalty to your roots is far beyond maintaining a consistent presence in your city or state. However, extending your ties and connections beyond that helps reinforce lessons and growth in ways that will benefit you and your city.
For example, you moved across the country for a job opportunity. Initially homesick, you immersed yourself in local activities, gradually forming connections instead of isolating yourself. This experience will broaden your perspectives and enrich your life in unexpected ways.
While the allure of returning home during challenging times is undeniable, moving away often comes with its set of difficulties. Homesickness, adapting to new environments, and building a support system are common challenges. To navigate these hurdles, consider researching your new location beforehand, actively seeking social connections, and maintaining ties with your home community to create a support network. Join local clubs or organizations, and stay connected with friends and family from home to maintain a sense of familiarity and support.
It can be so tempting to pack up and head back to the place you know as home when things seem to be turning sideways or even falling apart. It’s never wrong to go back home to revamp and regroup, yet when you’re back out and trying to regain your footing; remember that what you learned and where you’re from is never too far from you. Being able to adapt and glean in various environments will ultimately make you a great representative of where you’re from, as well as a better citizen of any community you choose to contribute to!
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