In ADVICE + THOUGHTS, LIFE

ChicagoMove

Well guys, it’s official. I spent my first full week in Chicago and it feels so right. Granted, I love-tapped two cars parallel parking last week, locked myself out of my apartment twice, and got lost trying to figure out public transportation, but I’m hoping it’s only a matter of time until I grow into this place. I love the feeling of being in the city. There’s something so refreshing about the idea of moving on and starting over that’s been making me so happy lately and this move couldn’t have come at a better time.

I haven’t written on here about personal stuff in a while for a few reasons, but mainly because when I’m sad or in a funk/angry, it’s hard to find inspiration to write about anything. And especially about feelings. I can’t sit here and tell you the past few months have been easy, some days have been very far from that. But I can say it’s definitely been a ‘growing process’ and a time for me to develop some great relationships with the people in my life that probably wouldn’t have grown to the point they are now if my life didn’t take such a big turn a few months ago. Which is something very important I realized: never get so wrapped up in something or someone that you forget who your true supporters are! We tend to get caught up in a relationship, career, etc., and push the people who matter the most to the side. That’s selfish and unhealthy – don’t do that!

Your heart is an incredibly powerful thing. It controls everything you do/think/say/feel. I’m sure some of you who are guarded because of past relationships can agree that it’s not easy to open your heart up again once you’ve been hurt, it’s actually terrifying. But you also can’t expect to find true happiness in a relationship if you don’t open up again. It’s a constant battle – but you have to believe that keeping your heart open is the best decision you can make. People will hurt you and disappoint you, but don’t give them the satisfaction of hardening your heart. Being vulnerable is scary but completely necessary. It’s easy to play the victim and feel sorry for yourself and think about how hurt you are or how lost you feel. It’s more than okay to take the time you need to heal, but there comes a point where if you want to be your happy normal self again, you have to make an effort to snap out of it and get the show on the road.

You really never know what each year will bring or where it will take you. I like to believe in fate – and that everything that’s happening is meant to be and that God is shaping us into the people He wants us to be by each unique experience. Big changes can be scary, but you can’t grow and experience your full potential unless you take risks and follow your gut. And that’s the hard part – making the decision to do whatever that may be. I hate making decisions. In the moment they feel so permanent – that’s why we’re so timid when it comes to making a choice that could potentially be the wrong thing. But honestly – if something isn’t right for you, you can ALWAYS change your mind. My mom always tells me that you can try anything for a year! Don’t be afraid to do something bold.

It’s always the big life changing moments – like a move to a new city – that end up challenging you in all the right ways. And with every year comes new obstacles, people, experiences, hard things, happy things, etc. This new chapter of my life is scary but so exciting. For those of you in the same boat as me and about to take a risk with a big move or huge decision, congrats & good luck! I’m excited to take this journey with you…


What I’m looking forward to as I start over in a new city:


Having a place to call HOME.

For the past few years I’ve kind of felt like a gypsy without a home base moving from different cities and living in temporary places. I’m so excited to finally have my own space that I can customize and put together and hopefully be in for a while.

Know myself better.

Starting over in a new city gives you the chance to really learn about yourself and what you truly want without any distractions or influences from people close to you. And yes, I’m still figuring that out at 25.

Network & meet new people.

I’ve been scared to make the move but I’ve been wanting to live in Chicago forever and I knew it was the next step for both my personal life and career. It’s going to push me to go outside my comfort zone to meet and network with new people and live the fast paced big city lifestyle I’ve always imagined. Plus, it will be so cool to constantly be surrounded by other creatives in the fashion/lifestyle industry.

Become more independent.

This year I realized that I’m much more independent than I gave myself credit for, but I still have a lot of room to grow. I’m not the kind of person who loves doing things and going places alone. I think it’s so important to learn how to be truly content with solitude.

Get my bearings.

The most exciting part about moving somewhere new is getting to know all the ‘trendy’ new places to go and finding your favorites. I’m looking forward to finding all my go-to spots (bars, food, nails, hair, coffee, gym, food, etc.). Also – I’m still completely clueless when it comes to naming street names and neighborhoods, but I’m forcing myself to look over the map and just get out and walk around to make things feel more familiar.


Thanks for stopping by, have a great week guys! xoxo, liv

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Showing 26 comments
  • Grace
    Reply

    Yay!! Welcome to Chicago❤️

  • Grace
    Reply

    Yay!! Welcome to Chicago❤️ So fun!

    • http://oliviarink.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/gravatar-olivia-rink.jpg
      Olivia Rink
      Reply

      Thanks Grace!! <3

  • Jenn
    Reply

    Thanks for your transparency, Olivia. Change is tough but it seems like you’re maneuvering through the highs and lows as gracefully and confidently as possible. Cheers to this new chapter!

    • http://oliviarink.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/gravatar-olivia-rink.jpg
      Olivia Rink
      Reply

      It’s overwhelming but in a VERY great way. I’ll be seeing you very soon sweet friend!

  • Ian Gaston
    Reply

    Not sure if you remember me or not but welcome to Chicago! This was a great read. I wish you the best!

    • http://oliviarink.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/gravatar-olivia-rink.jpg
      Olivia Rink
      Reply

      Ian! Of course I do – thanks so much for the comment. I heard you live here too – let me know if you want to get drinks some time!

  • Blakelee
    Reply

    Olivia, thanks so much for the past few posts on your blog. I follow you on Instagram and happened to see the post talking about your blog so I clicked on it and I am so thankful I did. I recently have gone through a breakup and it has torn me apart. It’s been a month and it’s still really hard for me. He is moving to a new city and I feel like he gets a new beginning but I want one too. I get so caught up in thinking about if he’s happy and how he is doing that I go through this ridiculous self-pity cycle that makes me forget the new beginning that I have: I’m just about to start college! However, I know God has a plan far better than you and I could ever imagine and I am so thankful that He knows what is best for us. The “Type A” in me hates to give up control, but I know God is in control and is taking care of me. Thank you SO MUCH for this post. It is refreshing to know that I am not alone in this journey. Sorry for the long comment, but I am so comforted by your post! I’ll be praying for us both during this rough time. Thank you.

    • http://oliviarink.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/gravatar-olivia-rink.jpg
      Olivia Rink
      Reply

      Hi cute girl – I totally feel you on everything you commented. It’s so hard and your heart can be so darn controlling when it comes to your emotions. Focus on making yourself happy in this process and put all of your energy into the people you love!! The right thing will happen for you when the time is right. You have so much growing to do still – college will be so eye opening! Thanks so much for reading – I’m glad you came across my post, xoxo

  • Lauren Nowaczyk
    Reply

    If your looking for a new friend to grab coffee with (or a donut-we have a ton of awesome donuts shops!) feel free to email me. I live in the suburbs but work in the city and am constant down there for coffee, drinks and all the other fun things Chicago has going on. 🙂

    • http://oliviarink.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/gravatar-olivia-rink.jpg
      Olivia Rink
      Reply

      YOU KNOW I love me some donuts!! I’d love to – oliviarink@gmail.com whenever you’re free we can set something up!

  • Alexandra Adams
    Reply

    I just moved to a new city too! And I’m totally in the same boat as you–excited to make a new place into a real ‘home,’ finding my favorite places to frequent, and learning more about myself. I know NOBODY here, as I’m starting a new job, so getting out of my comfort zone and just getting to know people is scary and exciting all at the same time! Can’t wait to hear about your journey as I’m going through mine! <3

    • http://oliviarink.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/gravatar-olivia-rink.jpg
      Olivia Rink
      Reply

      That’s so exciting for you!! New cities can be kind of scary but it’s seriously the coolest thing at the same time. And I’m sure it will feel like home to you in no time. Sounds like we are on the same journey – keep in touch xoxo

  • Haley
    Reply

    Great read – welcome to Chicago!! I’m a native (and hoping next year to live in the city after graduation) so if you need recommendations on places to eat or things to do let me know!! Also check Facebook for city events since a lot have been popping up recently like movies in Millennium park and an “adult” day at Lincoln Park Zoo with cocktails. Can’t wait to hear about your future adventures!

    • http://oliviarink.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/gravatar-olivia-rink.jpg
      Olivia Rink
      Reply

      Hi Haley!! Oh my gosh will you please keep me updated if you hear about any more fun events like this? I am still so unfamiliar with the city so I’d love to hear more fun things to do – my email is oliviarink@gmail.com. Thanks so much for stopping by!

  • Amy
    Reply

    I love your life posts – lets me know I’m not alone. Just know you are such an inspiration to others, and it’s ok to not always ‘have it all together’.
    Enjoy the city! There is no better time than now to explore/grow!
    Take care sweet girl 🙂

    • Amy
      Reply

      P.S. I love ALL of your posts, but your life posts are so relatable and always on point 😉

    • http://oliviarink.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/gravatar-olivia-rink.jpg
      Olivia Rink
      Reply

      Amy! Thanks so much for the sweet comment. But you’re totally right – it’s more than ok to not have it all together because you KNOW none of us really do. xoxo

  • Jess
    Reply

    Good luck and have fun with it all!! I’m in the same boat as you and will be moving in August so I’m excited to follow along with your journey
    Xoxo

    • http://oliviarink.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/gravatar-olivia-rink.jpg
      Olivia Rink
      Reply

      Thanks Jess!! Enjoy the journey – it’s such a fun time! Thanks for the comment 🙂

  • Kristyn Royster
    Reply

    I 100% agree with everything you said!! I found myself in the exact same situation about a year ago, and it’s the hardest thing to get through. But like you said, it’s all about His timing and His plan. So keep your head up and know you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be!! Enjoy the new city and place. Chicago is a fantastic place to live as a mid-twenty year old!!

    Have a great week!! Xo

    Kristyn
    Primp and Proper

    • http://oliviarink.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/gravatar-olivia-rink.jpg
      Olivia Rink
      Reply

      You’re so right. Life is so confusing sometimes – especially at this age – but if you just chill out and learn to go with the flow a little bit and trust in His timing, it’s not so bad!! Thanks for stopping by to read Kristyn!! xoxo

  • Ashley A
    Reply

    Olivia,
    Your blog is truly so refreshing! I recently just moved to Fort Myers, Fl for a job… relocating from Indiana! I feel the exact same way as you wrote. I also left my boyfriend of 5 years as he wasn’t ready to move. I choose my fashion career to work for a head quarters of a brand over him. Hard to do but felt right. Please know I love your blog and how your not scared to be exactly who you are. Thanks for being you!

    • http://oliviarink.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/gravatar-olivia-rink.jpg
      Olivia Rink
      Reply

      Ashley – GOOD FOR YOU GIRLFRIEND! Sounds like you’re on your own incredible journey. Thanks for stopping by to say hi and I appreciate that comment so much. <3

  • Josh
    Reply

    Awesome thoughts, Olivia. You seem to be moving in the right direction and Chicago seems to be a good fit for you. Just out of curiosity: Why Chicago? Why not L.A. or NYC? I, myself, have always dreamed of living in NYC and plan to make that move – eventually.

    So happy to hear that things are better for you! Keep that positive attitude and pretty smile! (:

    xoxo
    -Josh

  • Tori
    Reply

    Hi Olivia! I have been a reader for quite some time but just moved Chicago a couple weeks ago and found myself coming back to this post. I would absolutely love to see more posts related to this in the future- maybe lessons learned through your experience so far, ways to make friends as an adult in a new city, some of your favorite spots in Chicago, etc. <3

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