I was born and raised in South Florida, and for the past 20 years, I have known nothing more than the sand and the sea. Following a recent shift in my father’s career, my family decided to trade their swimsuits in for hiking boots and move to a small town just outside of Boulder, Colorado. Upon arrival, I began to notice differences immediately, mainly in the fashion, health choices, and activities chosen by the people. From beach bum to mountain chick, my family’s move to Colorado has been a lifestyle adjustment that has ultimately taught me a thing or two about change.
Since the move, I have been hiking in the Rocky Mountains, skydiving, crawling up waterfalls, and crawling down into caves. I have found myself wearing activewear that hadn’t seen the light of day before. I learned the importance of being eco-friendly, both with a balanced diet and the products we use. It is safe to say that my daily habits have been altered in Colorado, but I have learned something even deeper from this whole experience. My mindset has also been altered.
Change can be scary and uncomfortable. Despite the disapproval change may bring, it is often times inevitable. As college students, we are incredibly familiar with this concept. Leaving our safe place of 18 years and going to a university with different people and different routines was certainly a challenge. Changes like these will only continue to be present in our daily lives. From starting a career to moving to a new place, to meeting new people, we are forever encountering the latest shift that can be difficult to adjust to.
For myself, my family’s move to Colorado was particularly hard to accept because of the unfamiliarity and uncertainty it brought about. However, this experience has taught me some important lessons on how to cope with change. Keeping a positive attitude is key. A shift in a different direction does not mean a shift towards the end of the world. Surrounding yourself with those who offer love and support will only raise you up in times of doubt.
Exploring the unknown and putting yourself out there will open doors to internal and external growth. Change can be frightening, but it can also be exciting. I urge every Fashionista to embrace their upcoming changes with open arms and an open mind! Though Florida will forever be my home, I have officially given my heart to the mountains of Colorado.
What are upcoming changes you will soon encounter? Let me know in the comments below!