The author, originally from Virginia Beach, moved to New York City for grad school and later returned home, believing a tight-knit community would help her find writing work. However, she felt misplaced there and ultimately decided to return to NYC for better job prospects. Although she built a writing career through networking, the city's competitive atmosphere overwhelmed her as an introvert, compounded by financial strain. The COVID-19 pandemic heightened her sense of unmoored as she reevaluated her life choices and ambitions during lockdown.
I've lived in New York City and Virginia Beach, but never fully belonged. After returning to my hometown to save, I realized I wanted to travel.
In NYC, networking was easier and I built a satisfying writing career. However, the fast pace and competitiveness felt off for me as an introvert.
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