My favorite story from my childhood is the same as my mother’s least beloved. I only remember this story because it is one my mom still constantly reiterates. When I was in Kindergarten, my mom and I were walking downtown in Warsaw and she said I was holding her hand and looked up at her with the utmost sincerity as I told her I was never living in my hometown when I “grew up”. Though it took a few years (20 to be exact), I accomplished what I always said I would and moved to Nashville, TN nearly a month ago.
Anything new is always frightening but part of that rush is what makes it even more exciting. I knew moving to a new city and starting a new career path would be rewarding, but I’m also not naïve to the fact that its going to be lot of hard work at times will be straining. Even though I have been waiting for the big day to move since I was 6-years-old, I would be lying if I said I wasn’t terrified of such a drastic lifestyle change.
One thing that was nerve wracking was leaving behind my entire family and starting a new life with strangers. I love meeting new people, but everywhere I have been and lived, I had a small group that I was comfortable with. Now in Nashville, I have two close friends and some distant family, but I didn’t let this stop me.
Going into my first real work day in my new city, I knew one thing for sure: confidence is always half the battle. I wore a new outfit that made me feel positive and secure. I also reflected on a conversation with a dear friend who told me that I belong everywhere I want to be, and to not allow anyone the power to make me feel otherwise. If I ever feel out of place, I could always pretend and everything would be OK. Everything from my first day went smoothly.
Near the end of the day I wanted to explore Nashville and discover some new coffee shops. I walked into one I found online and not far from my work. It was definitely different than my familiar spot back in Warsaw, but I felt like I could adjust to this one smoothly. I asked the barista their preference on a drink and ordered their signature latte.
Almost every seat in the coffee shop was filled with faces staring at their computers or phones. I saw an opening at the window, a seat I wouldn’t normally choose, but I had no other option. There were two seats open next to me, one that was filled almost immediately after I sat down. We made small talk as you do with strangers and I told him I had recently moved. He told me he had been in Nashville for 10 years and assured me that I would absolutely love it. We talked about work and discovered that we have a mutual friend. I was quickly reminded that even when you’re somewhere unfamiliar and feel out of place, the world is indeed a very small place. And I knew it that moment; everything in Nashville is definitely going to be just fine.
After being in Nashville for a few more weeks, I am entirely grateful for the new relationships that are starting. I have a group of people who show me sincere generosity and my roommate has made this transition as simple as possible. With her, I have co-written five songs, discovered some hidden gems in my new city and already making a name for myself. (Love you Jess!) By the way, check out her soundcloud, Jess Mosby, she’s pretty incredible! She even gave me the top I’m wearing in my photo, just because. Every bit of hesitation I felt has almost disappeared. Moving forward (and away) was definitely the best decision I have made and I have my family, friends (new and old) to thank for their support throughout this entire process, and I have no plans to look back.
Along with co-writing a few songs, I was also interviewed for a podcast with my roommate about restarting. Check it out here!
Also, starting next week, I will have a weekly interview and bio for some musicians I have been working with. Be sure to lookout for the section, I have NOTHING to listen to! SO MANY EXCITING THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO!
Steal my look today: Glitter Leggings: Nordstrom, Black Top: Courtesy of Jess’ Closet!