I have just relocated to Miami and I have been asked by many people, what my favorite city is. I haven’t been able to answer this question because right now, of course I will say, Miami. However, I would not be being true to all the lessons and blessings I have received along the way.

God, people and places have been good to me and I can’t just brush that off. I have had the fortune of living in 3 different countries and residing in 5 different big cities. And for that, I will always be grateful.

Here are 3 Things that I have learned from living in different cities in The World:

1. We get what we need when we need it.

A few months ago when I decided to leave Los Angeles, I felt sad about it. A part of me regretted even moving there from New York because what people had told me Los Angeles was, I had come to see for myself. I saw a lot of superficial people, transactional relationships and a scene that depends on who you know or date. This is so not me.

Then I remembered when I first moved to Los Angeles, I felt a sense of safety there. I could do tons of yoga, hike and soak in the sun. I have had to remind myself that just because it was short-lived, it doesn’t mean that I should regret it. It served its purpose, even if it was only four years. California gave so much to me and I will always hold it dearly in my heart.

2. Life is about moving forward.

I spent most of my twenties in New York City, hustling and bustling. And as someone who is nostalgic and sentimental, I have memories that take me right back to walking down Broadway or taking the bus down Empire Boulevard past Eastern Parkway during The Fall. Remembering smells and scents that take me back ten years ago can feel painful sometimes.

During the lockdowns, I fell into a depression and sometimes it was hard to see any light but I kept my hope. Focusing on being present daily helped me immensely. It put into perspective that while (sometimes the past) seems enticing, it is over and done. I have today to make the most of and I am grateful.

3. Live like you can’t go back.

After having lived in different places, sometimes I catch myself saying that I should’ve done something that I really wanted to in a particular city or place that I didn’t. I’ve had to remind myself that I can’t go back but moving forward, I will live life to the fullest.

Moving forward, I will say yes to that date, I will take that adventurous trip and, I will connect with as many people as possible.

I promise to live life like if I couldn’t go back, I wouldn’t change anything- as much as I can.