Embracing Change: From Nothing to Everything, all at Once

In the year 2024, I made the conscious decision to break free from the monotony of routine and embrace a life filled with new experiences. In the span of a few weeks, I quit my job and booked my one-way ticket to London. Shy, introverted and timid me didn’t think this was a possibility. The mere idea of stepping into a room filled with acquaintances was daunting enough, let alone immersing myself in the bustling energy of a foreign city. But the sheer need for change can make you do wonderful things. Now, standing here in London I am reflecting on how this city has already changed my life for the better...

Park Run: Overcoming Childhood Fears

In the UK, Parkrun was established in 2004 as a free, community-based event held every Saturday morning, where individuals from all over the world come together to run 5km in their local park. Running has always been a personal hell for me, stemming from the days when my primary school sports teacher made fun of my running style, leaving me feeling self-conscious and reluctant to run, 15 years on. The only time I would consider running was when I risked missing a bus. However, faced with the high costs of gym memberships in London, I sought alternative ways to stay active. It was Eleanor, a regular at Parkrun, who encouraged me to join one Saturday morning. Reluctantly, I agreed, and to my surprise, I found myself enjoying the experience. Despite the initial discomfort and fatigue, what struck me most was the sense of community fostered by Parkrun. People of all ages and fitness levels come together in a spirit of camaraderie, supporting one another regardless of pace or ability. Participating in Parkrun taught me a valuable lesson: everyone runs differently, and ultimately, no one judges you for it. It's not about how fast you run or what you look like while running; it's about embracing the joy of movement and the shared experience of being part of a supportive community. Today, I am a proud member of the Parkrun community!

Embracing Side Hustles: Unleashing Creativity

In the hustle and bustle of London life, side hustles abound as a means of navigating the city's exorbitant expenses. From dog walking to mystery shopping, these endeavours not only provide supplemental income but also foster creativity and innovation. It's inspiring to witness individuals expanding their skill sets and exploring new avenues of opportunity. Since arriving in London, I have set up an Etsy store where I have created my own designs to sell on mugs and t-shirts. While it's true that my shop has only secured a single sale thus far, the experience has been immensely gratifying. Immersing myself in the world of Canva and exploring the intricacies of the Print on Demand business has been an experience in itself. Who knows? Perhaps my next sale will fund my next cup of coffee.

Discovering the Joy of Writing: Therapy in Expression

I've always found peace in self-reflection, my mind constantly abuzz with thoughts and reflections that I diligently jot down in my journal or notes app. However, since my arrival in London, I've found a new outlet for expressing these musings – my laptop. Transcribing my thoughts, ideas, and stories onto the screen has been remarkably liberating; once I start typing, the words flow effortlessly, and I find it hard to stop. Discovering the joy of blogging has been a delightful surprise, a newfound passion I never knew I possessed. While my readership may be modest at present – mostly consisting of my dear friend Abbey, and perhaps the occasional glance from my Mum – the act of writing itself has proven to be profoundly therapeutic. The mere act of putting pen to paper, or fingers to keyboard, allows me to untangle the complexities of my mind and find clarity amidst the chaos. Whether or not I garner a larger audience in the future, the intrinsic value of writing for my own sake remains immeasurable.

Friendships: Finding Community in the Concrete Jungle

I've often felt like I struggled to connect with other girls, even going back to my high school days. There was this lingering feeling of inadequacy—like I never quite fit in or met the unspoken criteria for friendship. Moving to the mid-west only seemed to amplify this sense of isolation. The tight-knit social circles that already existed made it challenging to break in. One particularly awkward encounter stands out in my memory: I confided in a colleague about my desire to make friends in the area, only to later find out that my name had somehow become synonymous with being "the girl in Horrocks looking for friends." The incident left me feeling exposed and vulnerable. It was puzzling how word had spread about my search for companionship, yet invitations for a casual wine or a coffee never seemed to materialise, and I went for long walks down the beach wondering if there was something wrong with me. 

In contrast, London has been a revelation—a place where I've encountered some of the most extraordinary individuals. Here, finding genuine connections isn't an anomaly; it's celebrated. I've been fortunate to cross paths with like-minded souls who appreciate my presence as much as I do theirs. In a city where loneliness can seem daunting, I discovered a lifeline in unexpected places, such as the "London Lonely Girls Club" Facebook page, boasting a staggering 60,000 members. It's a testament to the inclusivity and diversity of London's social fabric. In this vibrant metropolis, I've thrived in ways I never thought possible. Here, I've come to understand that my struggles with friendship wasn't a reflection of my worth, but rather a consequence of growing up in small, insular communities where finding "your people" was a challenge. London, with its population of nearly 9 million, offers a sanctuary for every soul, a place where acceptance and belonging are not just ideals but lived realities. 

Introvert or Extrovert: Redefining Identity

Growing up, I always identified as an introvert. As a child, I kept to myself, and social situations often triggered my anxiety. However, my perception of myself underwent a profound transformation upon arriving in London. Here, I found the courage to push beyond my comfort zone and embrace new experiences with an unexpected sense of ease and confidence. Surprisingly, I discovered facets of myself that I never knew existed—I realised that beneath my introverted exterior, there lay a dormant extroverted side waiting to be unleashed. London provided the perfect backdrop for me to shed old inhibitions, reinvent myself, and cultivate the person I aspired to be, rather than the one I believed myself to be.

Closing on a note of gratitude, I find myself deeply thankful for this fresh start in London. As I look ahead, I'm brimming with excitement for the countless new discoveries awaiting me in the coming years.

Thank you for joining me on this journey and reading my blog!

A x