She Strengthens

Embracing the Unknown: Navigating the Challenges of Starting Over

As I reflect on my post-graduation journey, I’m reminded of the daunting task of building a new life from scratch. Many of my friends are about to embark on this journey, and I can’t help but think about the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

Leaving Comfort Behind

Securing a job in my chosen field, moving to a new city, and hitting the reset button on my life seemed like the ideal post-grad plan. But the reality has been far more challenging than I anticipated. Doing it outside of a school setting has been particularly tough.

The Loneliness Factor

One of the biggest surprises has been the overwhelming sense of loneliness. With my friends scattered across the country, making new connections has been an uphill battle. The initial thrill of being alone wore off quickly, and I found myself struggling to cope with the isolation. It took a conscious effort to reach out and start building a social life in my new city.

Discomfort as a Constant Companion

Starting over in a new place can be liberating, but it’s easy to forget that discomfort is a constant companion. Every day, I’ve faced challenges that have pushed me out of my comfort zone. While discomfort can prompt growth and learning, it’s been difficult to find a sense of balance.

Questioning Every Choice

In this state of discomfort, I’ve found myself questioning every decision I’ve made. From wondering if I should have taken a different job offer to doubting my career choices, the uncertainty has been overwhelming. It’s been a struggle to find the growth amidst the pain.

Finding Growth in the Struggle

Despite the challenges, I’ve learned valuable lessons about myself. The loneliness and discomfort have given me space to self-reflect and confront my own weaknesses. It’s not been easy, but I’ve come to realize that growth often requires embracing the pain.

Holding On to Hope

Starting over is a deliberate choice to put yourself in a vulnerable position. It’s not always easy, and sometimes it feels like there’s nothing to hold on to. But it does get better. I may not know what the future holds, but I trust that everything happens for a reason. With a positive attitude and a willingness to grow, even the toughest challenges can be overcome.