Embracing Change: Moving Countries
This year has been one of constant change and adaptation. At the beginning of the year, I was living in Mexico City, immersed in its vibrant culture, art, and exciting new experiences. After a few months, I moved to Brussels, a city I had lived in before, so it felt more like returning than starting fresh. Still, moving back brought a new perspective, as I rediscovered the city’s diverse, creative atmosphere in a completely different phase of my life. Then came Lisbon, where I embraced the warmth, energy, and creativity that the city had to offer. And now, just this past week, I’ve made my way to Copenhagen—another new city, another new chapter.
With each move, I’ve learned to embrace the changes that come with starting fresh in a new place. It’s a process that’s both thrilling and overwhelming, full of moments of clarity and moments of doubt. And while each city has shaped me in different ways, one thing has remained constant: my need to ground myself amidst the whirlwind of change.
Throughout these moves, one thing I’ve learned is that I’ve always had to leave behind people, routines, and familiar comforts. As exciting as it is to explore a new city, it comes with the feeling of loss. It’s the little things—meeting friends for coffee, walking down familiar streets, or even just the comfort of a routine that’s become second nature. The grief of leaving these behind is something I’ve experienced with every move, and it’s something I’m learning to embrace as part of the process.
One thing that has helped me through it all is having a few concrete hobbies and rituals that I prioritize no matter where I go. Yoga, for example, is something I immediately seek out, whether it’s finding a studio in the new city or simply rolling out my mat in my apartment. It’s a physical and mental reset that helps me stay centered, no matter how unfamiliar the surroundings may be.
Another practice I embrace is taking myself out on solo café dates. There’s something comforting about sitting in a quiet café, sipping coffee, and observing the world around me. It allows me to slow down, reflect, and soak in the atmosphere of a new place without feeling rushed. These moments of solitude are vital—they give me space to connect with myself before diving into the bustle of a new city. Walking is also key for me. No matter where I am, I always make a point to explore the streets on foot. It’s an opportunity to discover hidden gems and experience the rhythm of the city at my own pace. I’ve found that it’s in these walks where I truly begin to feel a sense of belonging, even if the city is still new to me.
At the beginning, it’s inevitable to feel lonely. The initial isolation is part of the process, and accepting it as normal helps me manage expectations. Spending a lot of time alone is simply part of moving to a new city. Over time, these moments of solitude become the foundation of personal growth and self-discovery. Embracing it, rather than resisting it, is what helps me adapt to and appreciate my new surroundings.
And let’s not forget the eternal struggle of finding a place to live. It’s like dating—sometimes you get lucky, and other times, you’re left swiping through listings wondering if you’ll ever find the one. The search for a perfect home is always a little chaotic—especially in a new city. But I try to remind myself that it’s a process, and as with any good love story, the right space will come along when the time is right. It’s not about the destination; it’s about enjoying the hunt.
Sometimes, the best moments of adaptation come from the most unexpected sources. While I’ve been busy settling into Copenhagen, I’ve also noticed how the smallest, seemingly insignificant things can inspire me. From discovering the perfect smørrebrød at a neighborhood bakery to stumbling upon an intimate art gallery tucked away in a side street, these little gems make me feel like I’m uncovering the city’s secrets—one corner at a time.
It’s funny how even the most ordinary experiences can spark something extraordinary. Maybe it’s the act of stepping out of your comfort zone that opens up new perspectives, or perhaps it’s just a way to make the unfamiliar feel like home. Whatever it is, I’ve come to appreciate these moments. They remind me that there’s beauty in the chaos of it all, and sometimes it’s those simple things that make the biggest difference.
And then, there’s the quiet. When you’re new to a city, it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle. But I’ve found that embracing the stillness, the solo moments of reflection, is key to moving forward. Whether it’s a few minutes of deep breathing or taking off my headphones while walking to work to listen to the city, these moments of solitude have become grounding.
It’s like the city itself is constantly moving, but in these moments of stillness, I’m able to find my place within it. As I continue my journey of adapting, I realize that the key isn’t to rush through the transitions, but to savor the process—letting each step forward, no matter how small, is still a step toward finding home.