Stop Fighting It

Whelp, I'm here now, so I need to make the most of it. Life has a funny way of nudging us toward the places we’re meant to be, even when we’re not entirely sure why we’re being nudged in the first place. For me, that nudge came in the form of a big move, well another big move—from the 5 Star staycations, spas, and restaurants, not to mention THE most fantastic shopping, of Las Vegas back to the familiar streets of Cleveland.

I spent ten amazing years in Las Vegas. It was a time filled with amazing peolple (who I'm still very close to), incredible experiences, professional growth, and the thrill of living in a city that never sleeps. Las Vegas was a place where dreams were big, opportunities were plentiful, and the pace of life was exhilarating - if you wanted it to be. I was comfortable there, like maybe too comfortable. Comfort is a beautiful thing, but it can also be a trap that keeps us from pushing ourselves further.

When the decision to move back to Cleveland came, it wasn’t an easy one. I’d built a life in Vegas that I loved, and leaving it behind felt like stepping into the unknown. Which is crazy because I know Cleveland, right? But deep down, I knew that staying in my comfort zone was no longer an option if I wanted to truly grow as a person and a "potential" content creator, blogger, reviewer.

Returning to Cleveland meant reconnecting with family and friends, rediscovering the city and experiences that shaped me, and finding new inspiration in familiar surroundings. I'm looking at you Cleveland Museum of Art! It’s funny how the place where you grew up can hold the keys to the next chapter of your life. Being back home has grounded me in ways I didn’t anticipate. There’s something about being close to those who know you best and being in an environment that feels like home that can ignite a new sense of purpose.

This move has been more than just a change of scenery; it’s been a shift in perspective. I’ve realized that comfort, while cozy, can stifle creativity and ambition. Big time! Sometimes, you need to shake things up, challenge yourself, and step into the unknown to discover what you’re truly capable of.

Since moving back to Cleveland, I’ve found myself more focused, more driven, and more inspired than I’ve been in years. It’s as if being back among my roots has given me the clarity and courage to pursue my passion with renewed vigor. The support of my loved ones, the familiarity of my hometown, and the space to reflect have all contributed to this new chapter of growth. Now, let me not discount the fact that this environment has been DIFFICULT! Cleveland was not named the worst place for a Black woman to live for nothing, but more on that later.

I may have left behind the razzle dazzle of Las Vegas, but I’ve also gained something valuable—a sense of purpose and while the path forward may not be exactly clear, it's definitely a path of sorts. Sometimes, the journey back home is what we need to rediscover ourselves and reignite our passions. For me, Cleveland is a return to my roots; the foundation for what's next. But even with that said, I need to stop looking back longingly at a past that's gone so I don't miss the future in front of me. #NotLotsWife