My 7 Reasons For Starting Over in a Small City
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If you are familiar with the storylines of many Hallmark or Lifetime movies, they often follow a similar pattern. Typically, a man or woman with children experiences the loss of a spouse through separation, divorce, or death. They then make the decision to either return to their hometown or start fresh in a new small city or town. I used to ponder why this recurring theme was so prevalent in these storylines. However, something unexpected happened to me, which put me in a similar situation. In 2019, while going through a separation and divorce, I found myself facing the same questions: What should I do next? Where should I go? How do I start over and reimagine life as a single mom?
| Also Read: 4 Ideas to Get Through Indecision (lalocreativity.blogspot.com)
In summary, I decided to move back to a small city in Virginia to allow my eldest child to finish high school. By the way, I am thrilled to share that he recently graduated, and I couldn't be prouder.
In this blog, we will delve my 7 compelling reasons why beginning anew in a small community can be a wonderful option following a challenging phase in life. I will also share how it has personally helped me (and continues to do so) on my own journey.
1. Embrace a fresh start.
Moving to a small city or town provides a chance to reinvent yourself and start anew. It allows you to leave behind the reminders of the past and embark on a journey of personal transformation. While the end of my marriage marked the initial phase of my time in the new small city, returning after a four-month trial period away felt like the natural next step in the process of starting anew.
2. Gain a firm sense of community.
Small communities often foster a profound sense of community and belonging. People tend to be closely connected and supportive, making it easier to cultivate new friendships and build a reliable support system, especially during difficult periods. I have had the pleasure of meeting several individuals who have demonstrated their willingness to lend a hand when needed, and I've also learned valuable historical insights from long-term residents. These interactions have provided me with a deeper understanding of the challenges and benefits associated with living here.
3. Embrace a slower pace of life.
Small towns often offer a more relaxed pace of life in contrast to bustling cities. This slower rhythm can be instrumental in reclaiming peace of mind, reducing stress, and prioritizing self-care and healing. It was through this deceleration that I found myself gradually embracing a life rhythm that helped me become a better version of myself.
4. Reign in cost of living.
In many instances, the cost of living in small cities or towns is considerably lower than in larger metropolitan areas. This provides valuable financial breathing room as you rebuild your life and pursue your goals. In my case, I had already embarked on a journey of remote freelance work a year before my separation and divorce, exploring it as a long-term solution for income generation, freedom, and work-life balance. Following the separation, managing income became even more challenging, making the flexibility of lower expenses crucial for adapting to new circumstances.
| Also Read: 5 Habits to Simplify Your Budgeting Journey
5. Explore areas closer to nature.
Many small cities and towns are blessed with stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, lakes, rivers, beaches, and forests. The proximity to nature can be exceptionally therapeutic, providing a profound sense of peace, serenity, and the opportunity to engage in outdoor activities that enhance both physical and mental well-being. In my neighborhood, I am fortunate to have easy access to several parks, nature trails, and a recreation center. One of my favorite destinations is the city park, which boasts a year-round riverfront and a picturesque walking trail spanning the Appomattox River. Additionally, my backyard is graced by a magnificent pecan tree that, when in season, yields a bountiful harvest of pecans for myself, my family, and friends.
6. Opening more opportunities for personal growth.
Beginning anew in a small city or town opens doors for personal growth and introspection. With fewer distractions, you have the chance to embark on a journey of self-discovery, delve into new interests, and cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself. Personally, my creativity has soared to new heights, and I often find myself immersed in a whirlwind of capturing the abundant details and fresh perspectives that shape my creative path. This very blog serves as a testament to this transformative process in action!
7. Charting a new course of life on a blank canvas.
A small city or town provides a blank canvas for pursuing your future endeavors. It allows you to shape your life according to your values, goals, and aspirations, free from the constraints or expectations that may have existed in your previous environment. To capture the essence of this, I personally find creating vision boards to be immensely helpful. It serves as a visual representation of reimagining and reconnecting with myself, allowing me to realign with my passions and set a clear direction for my journey. It's like using a blank canvas to paint my aspirations and dreams.
Final Thoughts
While going through a separation, divorce, or major life crisis event can be overwhelming, starting over in a small city or town can bring about a range of positive experiences and opportunities. From a fresh start and a supportive community to a slower pace of life and closer connection to nature, these factors contribute to personal growth, healing, and a renewed sense of purpose. I am learning to embrace the potential that a small community holds and embark on a journey of self-discovery and fulfillment as I rebuild my life.
Have you recently started over in life? Would love to hear from you. Leave a comment below! #wellness #personalgrowth
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