23 Aug LEAP | 8 YEARS IN NYC
Today exactly eight years ago I got on the plane in Hamburg, Germany to fly to JFK, NYC. The plan was to stay for only one year, to learn the language better, to experience the American culture, and to explore the paths of Carrie Bradshaw and Serena van der Woodsen. What I didn’t know when I got on the plane eight years ago, was that I would end up living here and build my entire life in the States.
There is this quote that I stumbled upon this week “New Yorkers are born all over the world, and then they come to New York City and it hits them: Oh that’s who I am.” When I left the airport and saw the tall buildings, all the lights, the masses of people, everyone unique in their own way, I knew that this was the place where I belonged.
My road to permanently living here was definitely not easy, I had so many obstacles in my way and I was so close to throwing the towel and going back home to Hamburg, Germany. BUT because I have the best and most supportive parents and brother ever in Germany, I stayed. I know that sounds backwards, but they encouraged me to keep fighting for my dreams when I felt like giving up. They have always been there for me, and thank goodness to today’s technology What’s App and Skype in particular, I’m able to stay in touch with them all the time. I’m also so grateful for my friends in Germany and all the wonderful friends I’ve made in the states, that have become my family here. I’m so thankful to have such a great support system! I am very excited to see what my future has in store, if it’s living another eight years in the states or if it’s traveling the world, or moving to Paris. Who knows, anything is possible!
My message to you is that sometimes you just have to hold your breath and jump, take the leap. Yes, it will not be easy leaving your family and friends, and going WAY out of your comfort zone can be terrifying, but the best life is lived outside of your comfort zone. Keep on pushing. Take the leap. Learn a new language. Experience a new culture. Travel. Meet new people. Fall in love. All these experiences will shape the strong person you are meant to become. I am so grateful for all the experiences over the past eight years, good and bad, because I learned so much about myself and about how strong I really am. The best life is lived outside of your comfort zone! Take a leap!
I would love to hear more about your stories. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done outside of your comfort one? Are you thinking about taking a leap, but are second guessing yourself? Thank you so much for reading and I can’t wait to read your stories. xx Joëlle
*This is not a sponsored post*
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