Why you should move

If you’re unhappy and have the means, move to a different city.

I grew up in Eugene, Oregon. I’m very thankful for my loving family, childhood friends, and earnest teachers. It was a fortunate upbringing.

But as I got older, I grew apart from the culture of the city I was born into. I didn’t feel like I fully belonged, compounding social anxiety and introverted tendencies. I isolated myself, avoided connection[1], and buried myself further into tinkering with tech. That served me well professionally, but my social life and happiness suffered.

After college, I moved to San Francisco. It felt like I was given glasses for the first time. I didn’t realize how poor my vision really was. In SF, I found people that shared similar ambitions and nerdy interests. I found new energy, exposed to new people and experiences. I quickly realized how unfulfilled I had been in my hometown.

Of course, SF may not be your place. Maybe Eugene is your place.

The point is: If you feel disconnected from your surroundings, consider moving to a different city.

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‍[1] Real human connection is one of my core values, a core ingredient to a fulfilling life.

[2] The photo above is a pic of SF's iconic Delores Park, shortly after I moved to the city.