There's More to Life Out There Than This Small Town

Do you ever feel like you’re stuck in a never-ending loop?

Same streets, same faces, same stories—almost like living in a real-life rerun. Don’t get me wrong; there’s a certain charm in knowing that Mrs. Iyabo next door will always have fresh akara (bean cakes) ready on Saturday mornings. The smell alone can pull you out of bed and make you sing her praises.

There’s something comforting about the rhythm of it all, like your neighborhood and your current life experience have their own heartbeat—one that smells like home-cooked meals and sounds like familiar voices echoing through compound walls.

But then, it gets irritating when that one weird family member keeps forgetting you’ve already finished your first degree and annoys you to your marrow—like you need to hang your certificate around your neck for proof. And don’t even get me started on the unsolicited career advice from relatives who barely understand what you do. The unending drama, one that makes you question your existence and choices.

Deep down, you know, sometimes, you want more than what meets the eye.

Finding Comfort in this Small Town? It's Just Never Enough

Never been on a flight or even taken a bus to the nearest city or a neighboring country? Or are you feeling that intense urge—like there’s so much adventure out there, and somehow, you’re stuck in this mediocre city?

There’s definitely a certain charm to living in this small town, believe me. But at some point, that comfort can start feeling like a cage. You know every shortcut, every back road, and exactly what’s on the menu at every restaurant in town.

There’s a world beyond these city limits, calling your name.

Here's Why You Should Explore Beyond Your Hometown

1. Growth Happens Outside Your Comfort Zone

When you step outside of what’s familiar, you challenge yourself in ways you never thought possible. Whether it’s moving to a new city, traveling solo, or starting a new career, growth happens when you push yourself beyond what you already know.

2. More Opportunities Await

Now, do you know that these small towns can have limited career and educational opportunities? Larger cities or new environments often provide more networking options, diverse industries, and a wider range of experiences that can help you reach your full potential.

3. Exposure to Different Cultures and Perspectives

There are so many cultures and adventures out there waiting for you to explore. Staying in one place can make the world feel small and make you feel small. But when you travel or move somewhere new, you meet people from different backgrounds, experience new traditions, develop a new purpose, and gain a broader understanding of the world. Sounds like something you’ve been dying to tick off your bucket list, right?

Well, this is a sign. We’ve been overthinking this for far too long. The real question is: What’s holding you back? Family? Friends? Money? Work? Or that significant other? For me, it’s the fear of making silly mistakes and regretting my decisions. Yeah, we're in the same boat, but! I'm embarking on my scheduled trips this year, and I can't wait to share them with you all.

So, what are you scared of? Care to share? 👀👇

4. Adventure Makes Life Exciting

Routine can be comforting, but it can also be boring. Exploring new places, trying different foods, and stepping into unfamiliar situations add excitement and spontaneity to life.

How to Break Free from the Small-Town Bubble

• Travel: You don’t have to pack up and leave everything behind overnight. Sometimes, all it takes is a weekend trip to shake things up. Try visiting a nearby city you’ve never explored, or go on that road trip you keep talking about with your friends. Even small getaways can help you see what life feels like outside your comfort zone. I remember the first time I went to a new state for a wedding—I came back thinking, “Wait… people actually live like this? I want this!”  That little trip planted a big seed.

• Expand Your Network: You know that friend of a friend who’s now living their best life in another country? Reach out. You’d be surprised how many people are open to sharing their experiences. Social media, LinkedIn, online communities, or even local networking events are full of people who’ve made the leap. Hearing their stories can give you both inspiration and real-world tips. One quick message might turn into the conversation that shifts everything for you.

  
  

• Set Some Goals: If relocating has been on your mind, it’s time to stop dreaming and start planning. Ask yourself—where would I actually want to live? What’s the job market like there? Can I afford the lifestyle? Don’t worry; you don’t need all the answers today. Start with Google searches, YouTube vlogs, or even virtual meetups with locals. Breaking it down into small, manageable steps makes the whole thing less scary—and a lot more doable.

  
  

• Take That First Step: The truth? The first move is always the hardest. Maybe it's applying for a role in another city, signing up for a course across town, or even just getting your passport ready. Whatever it is, it doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be something. I know someone who simply booked a solo trip to a country she’d never been to before. Two years later, she’s living there, thriving. It all started with one bold move.

  
  

  

  
  

Don’t Let Fear Hold You Back

It’s easy to let fear keep you in the comfort of your small town. But remember—every big adventure starts with a single step. The world is waiting for you. The question is: Are you ready to step out and see what’s beyond the horizon? Share your story with us in the comments below.