Moving away from home can be complicated and confusing. It is hard to know where you belong and where to call “home.” Moving away from home forces you to come out of your comfort zone, and it can be hard to land on your feet.
From my journey stretching from Miami, Hong Kong, London, Texas, and back to London before heading to The University of Tampa, I’ve consistently found myself pushed out of my comfort zone. Fortunately, acclimating to new environments and making friends has never created a challenge. The primary struggle lies in staying true to myself despite the diverse cultural landscapes I’ve encountered.
Navigating different cultures while maintaining my authenticity has been the constant challenge accompanying my global lifestyle. I grapple with the balance of not drawing a lot of attention due to my accent or distinct habits while resisting the urge to conform blindly. This delicate tightrope walk defines my daily life as I navigate the intricate balance of being a woman with a blend of cultures that don’t neatly fit into any single place.
The essence of stepping out of my comfort zone permeates every day, as my identity spans varied cultures, making it challenging to fully belong anywhere. To counteract this, I’ve developed a unique strategy: I celebrate at least one significant holiday from each culture I’ve been exposed to. Whether it’s Chinese New Year, July 4th, or the Queen’s Birthday, I ensure that all of these holidays are acknowledged and celebrated. This ritual serves as a reminder not to forget the diverse aspects that contribute to my identity, fostering a sense of connection to each cultural thread in the tapestry of my life.