Moving away to Florida from my hometown in New Jersey 2 years ago was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for my personal development. I’ve grown more confident, competent, and most of all, happier.
While moving away from your hometown can feel daunting at first, it’s also one of the most beneficial things you can do for your self-growth.
If you’re on the fence about moving away from your hometown, here are some reasons to give you insight on what it’s like and why you too should take the leap.
1. Self-growth.
It’s no surprise that your self-growth can feel stifled when you’re experiencing zero change in your everyday life.
Living in your same childhood bedroom, going to the same places with the same people is a recipe for what I call the “hometown rut.” You aren’t filling your life with any new, independent experiences which doesn’t give you the opportunity to grow.
Moving away from your hometown opens the doors you need to create a life for yourself and achieve growth. I’ve noticed tremendous maturity in my emotional and cognitive abilities, and even my personality.
2. True independence.
Learning to not rely on others’ assistance for every little thing is an extremely important lesson as a young adult.
You’ll figure out what to do if you get a flat tire or you’re cooking a new recipe – without immediately relying on family and people you know. It feels good to figure things out on your own.
3. A fresh start.
Here are a few signs you need a fresh start and should leave your hometown:
- You don’t feel challenged.
- You’re bored with everyone knowing you.
- You wonder what life is like elsewhere.
- You’re surrounded by negativity.
If any of these resonate with you, I suggest moving on to a new beginning. By leaving your hometown and expanding your horizons you will realize how big the world is, and how there are endless opportunities waiting for you!
4. Different perspectives & new friends.
At home, you only know the perspective of people who had very similar experiences to yours. You all went to the same high school, knew the same people, and went to the same places.
Moving out of your hometown allows you to meet people whose mindsets and backgrounds will inspire you and maybe even teach you something about yourself that you never knew before.
5. Confidence.
Making a move (especially far away from your hometown), maintaining your apartment/household, meeting new people, and navigating around your new city is no easy task.
You will have way more confidence knowing you made it there yourself. One day you’ll look around at your life and realize, wow, I did that. It’s amazing to look back and realize how much you’ve grown.
6. Discovering new interests.
You don’t know what you don’t know.
Moving to a new place might introduce you to something you didn’t know existed or never thought to try.
Through your new surroundings and experiences, you might end up going down a path you hadn’t originally planned. Whether it be finding a new passion or figuring out your dream job – the opportunities are endless!
7. Appreciating your family.
If you clash with your family while living at home, you might be pleasantly surprised to find that this is no longer the case when you put some distance between you and them.
Sometimes, our relationships with others can be strengthened with some boundaries (literally).
Maybe your relationship with your family feels overwhelming and strained when you’re living together. But you might get along much better when your time with them becomes less frequent, and therefore, more valued.
8. Viewing your hometown in a more positive light.
If you disliked your hometown while living there, you might grow a newfound appreciation for it after being away.
You might find that you miss certain aspects about the landscape, the activities, the food (oh don’t get me started on New Jersey Italian food), etc. that you now have a sense of appreciation for.
For example, Florida (although beautiful) is all flat land. Now when I visit my hometown, I appreciate the little things like the hills and mountain views that I don’t get here in Miami.
9. Money Management.
I know, BORRIING. But absolutely essential.
I’ve lived in both Key West and Miami – believe me, it gets expensive.
New places means more things you want to do/try, which ultimately means more spending. You learn to manage your money pretty quickly.
10. Freedom.
You might be thinking, “Isn’t this the same as independence?”
Hear me out – what I mean is that you can make literally whatever decision you want. Buy a car. Adopt a pet. Quit your job. You can make huge life decisions without dealing with the judgment of people around you.
The freedom that comes from no one limiting you is the increased ability to make your own decisions.
With that I say – not all of your decisions will turn out to be good decisions, but that’s life! Trial and error gives you the opportunity to learn.
Ultimately, being in charge of your decisions and learning how to navigate their consequences is incredible for your growth.
