I’ve got a big announcement today! Read on to see what exciting changes are coming to Fitful Focus and what it means for all of my fabulous readers.
Hey! Hi! Hello to all my fit & focused friends. I’m going a bit off script today because I have a really big announcement to share.
As you can probably tell from the graphic above, I’m leaving New York.
Gasp! (Sounds of shock) She said whaaaaa?!
I know. It’s crazy. I’m still trying to wrap my head around the idea, but the truth is: Will and I have been toying with the idea of leaving the city for a while. While we absolutely love it here, neither of us can see ourselves settling down in the city forever. We want a house and outdoor space, and while we can have those things here, the cost of those things would mean giving up a lot of other things we love – like travel and well… money to do anything besides commute and pay a ridiculous mortgage (#adulting). We want to be somewhere less expensive and, admittedly, less stressful.
So, where are we going?
Wait for it….
….
….
….
We’re moving to Austin, ya’ll!
Will got a great job down in Longhorn Country, so we’re packing up our Brooklyn apartment and heading down south. Will is actually already down there getting the hang of things at his new gig, and I’ll be heading down after running the New York City Marathon in a couple short weeks!
I’m not going to lie, I’ve been an emotional rollercoaster throughout this whole process. Will and I talked the pros and cons of moving and not moving to death. Here’s just a little taste of what we’ve been wrestling with:
Both of our families are up here. We both have good jobs up here. We have amazing friends up here. Our Brooklyn apartment is amazing, and our neighborhood is fantastic. On top of all that, we live in New York freaking City. It’s incredible here.
However, as incredible as it is, it’s also extremely stressful. Will was commuting at least 3 hours a day to work, and it was taking a toll on him. I have never been a fan of crowds, and you can’t go a day in NYC without being overwhelmed by at least one sardine can of a subway car or tourist-packed side walk. Everything is rushed here. It’s always go-go-go, and sometimes a girl just wants to chill-chill-chill. We both love the outdoors, and while there are beautiful parks nearby, it’s not the same as being just a few minutes from a big lake or a mountain you can hike up. And buying property here? I just can’t justify spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on a teeny tiny apartment.
We talked and talked about moving vs not moving, and in the end, all signs pointed to Austin.
I’m extremely excited…
…and utterly terrified.
I’m excited for a new adventure. I’m excited for a more laid back city. I’m excited for warm weather. I’m excited to live in a new apartment with a gym and a pool and a dishwasher and laundry in unit (those last two = the stuff of dreams!).
I’m terrified of being far away from our parents. I’m terrified of leaving our friends. I’m terrified of going somewhere and not knowing anyone. I’m beyond terrified to leave my job.
Yep – I’m leaving my full-time job, and that scares the crap out of me. I’ve never not had a job. There are advertising jobs in Austin, but there aren’t nearly as many as in NYC. I know I can find a good gig down there, but knowing I’m going to be unemployed and not knowing when I’m going to stop being unemployed freaks me out. And I’m doing this voluntarily? Am I crazy? Is this the right thing?
But I know it is. The unknown is possibly the scariest thing in the world. Change is extremely difficult, but at the same time, change is the only way we can grow. Stepping out of our comfort zone and trying something new is the only way we can know what we want out of life.
I know this all sounds terribly cliche, but it’s true. If Will turned down the job, and we decided to stay in NYC, we would always wonder what could have been. We would regret not trying.
We may hate Austin, but you know what? We can always come back. New York isn’t going anywhere.
That said, I don’t think we’ll hate it. In fact, I think we’ll love it. Everyone I know that’s been to Austin has loved it. It has awesome food. It has a huge health and fitness scene. It’s outdoorsy but still city-like. The cost of living is better than New York City. The stress levels are lower. It’s exactly what we want.
I have to be out of my apartment this weekend, and it’s bittersweet. I’m going to miss it here so much, but I know Austin will be a great new adventure.
This move also makes running the New York City Marathon about 100 times more special than it already was going to be. It will be my last time running in the city before I move, and I am going to cherish those 26.2 miles more than any other mile I’ve run in the past. I’ve never cried at a race, but I wouldn’t be surprised if this one makes me bawl.
I will always, always, always love NYC, but I’m excited to create a new place in my heart for Austin.
What’s more, this opens up a whole new world of stuff to share with you all! I’ll be able to share new fitness adventures and what the health scene is like in my new city. You’ll get to come along with me as I attempt to discover where all the best allergy-friendly eats are in Austin and hunt down the best taco. I’ll get to explore new running routes and fitness classes. There are so many new things to be excited about!
Get ready, Austin, Fitful Focus is comin’ for ya!
Let’s Chat – I’m seeking lots of advice from you all (or should I say ya’ll now?) today:
Have you been to Austin? Any of my readers LIVE in Austin? Tell me all the things!
Have you ever made a big move? How did you deal with the change?
Have you ever been unemployed for an unknown amount of time? How did you deal?
YAY for finally announcing the big news! I’m just so excited for you. Yes, it will be huge change, and yes, there are many, many unknowns. But you will land on your feet–though your legs may be a little bit tired!
Susie @ SuzLyfe recently posted…Weekend Wins #FlyTheW
My legs will definitely be tired, but they’ll also be feeling awesome from PRing ;-P
How exciting!!! What an amazing new adventure. I really liked Austin when I was there earlier this year. AND just think you can wear cowboy boots anytime you want now!
I moved twice by myself in my early 20’s to completely new places and it was such a growing and defining experience. I’m sure it will be the same for you, and even less hard because you guys are doing it together.
Soooo swweet you get to run the Marathon before you leave though!
Julie @ Running in a Skirt recently posted…Living for More than the Weekend {Craggy Pinnacle in Fall}
Thanks, Julie! I’m definitely excited for cowboy boots 🙂
I’m so excited for you! While I know leaving NYC will be bittersweet, I’ve heard amazing things about Austin and I think you will really like it there!
Kimberly G recently posted…#MusicMonday – Smashing Pumpkins Edition
Good luck to you on your big move! One of my best friends moved out of NYC for the exact same reasons you listed and she has not regretted it at all. She loves to visit, though.
I relocated from Va to NC so not a huge move…. But my advice to you is to give yourself an entire year to adjust and meet new people before deciding whether you dislike the city. The good thing is that the health and fitness community is usually pretty welcoming so that is a great way to meet people!
That is great advice! Thank you so much! I’m definitely excited to meet new fit friends down there 🙂
Congrats! That’s so exciting! It’ll be a change but as someone who lives out in the forest/rural country I could not imagine living in a big city. The slower pace and peace and quite is good for the soul.
Bri recently posted…It’s time to woman up and stop apologizing
Oh my goodness!I’m so excited for you! H and I have been toying with the idea of moving too and I’m terrified of leaving my job.
Carmy recently posted…Creamy Avocado Pasta
Come move to Austin! hehe
Awesome girl! I am trying to move to Austin or San Antonio area in the next couple of years. I love it out there.
Ivanna recently posted…How To Start a Personal Training Business
Yes! Come! I’d love to have a fit friend down there.
Yay, I’m so excited for you!! And girl we were in the exact same position 2.5 years ago. I moved here with my boyfriend cause we were doing long distance and neither of us wanted to live where the other person was. I didn’t have a job when we moved here either. There are so many opportunities here though you will def find one soon. And the food and fitness scene is great here. I can’t wait for you to get here and we can hang out! So many new adventures coming your way!
Kelly @ Eat the Gains recently posted…Spicy Crockpot Pumpkin Soup
Wow that really is the exact same position! I’m so happy to hear that you are loving it, and I can’t wait to meet you!
Wow!! I did in fact gasp at the news! I totally get it and I’m so glad you said Austin and not Long Island (well, that could’ve been fun but not financially responsible!). You guys sound like you’ve weighed it all out and I think it’s a great move. I’m so excited to see what you get to share from your new digs!! Maybe I’ll see you at the marathon!!
Michelle recently posted…What to Do When Your Marathon Training {or half!} Does Not Go as Planned
Thanks, Michelle!!! I hope I do see you!
Wow, congrats on the big decision! It sounds like it will be a wonderful adventure and I’ve heard great things about Austin from everyone I know that’s been there.
Chaitali recently posted…Race 13.1 Baltimore – training week 8
This is SO exciting! I can see being terrified. I’d be terrified as heck to move so far away from friends and family but it seems like the right choice and what an adventure. I seriously can’t wait to follow you on this adventure.
Jen @ Pretty Little Grub recently posted…Weekend Recap – Food and Fitness Adventures
Gahhhh!!! I move in a week and can’t believe it!
I have not been to NYC or Austin so I cannot compare but I am a big fan of huge life moves… we sold our large suburban home fully furnished and moved onto oursailboat for 12 years… now in an urban apartment in a different city. I love big changes and wish you lots of fun and excitement as you move and get adjusted. Explore lots and keep a great sense of humor.
That is amazing. My fiance’s dream is to live on a boat!
How exciting! I know it’s not NYC but I have heard wonderful things about Austin! Best of luck and hopefully see you in some festivities during NYC Marathon 🙂
I am so so so excited for you friend! I will be sad that I don’t get to see your smiling face when I come down to the city but now I have a NEW city to come visit you in!!! I know you will love it and can’t wait to hear all about it when you get down there!
Annmarie recently posted…Dairy Free Dark Hot Chocolate
So exciting for you! I’ve never lived in NY, but I can understand that it would be difficult to leave. I’ve heard great things about Austin (about the only place in Texas I think I could live 🙂 ). Good luck!
Debbie recently posted…Tram Road Challenge Recap and Anniversary Run!
Haha yes. It’s the only non-Texas part of Texas.
Congratulations!!! What a huge, exciting change!
Congrats on the big move! Change is always exciting, and scary, but the important thing is that you’re on this adventure with the love of your life. I can’t wait to read all about the transition from NYC to Austin.
Kathryn @ Dancing to Running recently posted…Wine and Dine Half Marathon Training Log – Week 4
I’m definitely biased 🙂 but Austin rocks. So much so we moved to the bay area forever… And ended up back in the ATX two years later.
Carla recently posted…3 Reasons I Swapped Coffee Breaks For Outside Time.
That’s so good to hear! I hope to see you when I’m down there!
wow that’s a HUGE change. I love love NYC & the big city feel, but i could never live there (or at least, not for long), so i totally get what you’re feeling! But Austin is so south.. haha, and so different! I hope you love it! Best of luck with the marathon and the move <3
masala girl recently posted…Power Roasted Veggie Bowl with Tofu & Greens
Haha it definitely is south, but I hear it’s the only city in the south that doesn’t feel like the south.
So exciting!! I’m sure it’s scary but I know a few people who have made the move to Austin and absolutely LOVE IT there!! Can’t wait to hear more and see how this move goes for you!
I’ve heard only good things about it, so I hope that’s the same for us! I will definitely keep everyone posted 🙂
Nicole, I understand your pain. I’m a lot older than you but we left 50+ years of living in Utah, leaving family and friends to move to beach in Florida. It was the hardest thing that we had ever done but it was the best thing that we have ever done.
You have to take chances in life and go with your heart ❤️ Life is about living it to the fullest and not letting anything hold you back. Enjoy your new adventure!!!
Thank you so much, Julie! I will keep reminding myself of that whenever things get tricky 🙂
I’m pretty sure you won’t hate Austin! I was just there with my sister and we absolutely loved it! I’m so excited for you!!!
Where’d you go? What’d you see? Give me all the tips! haha
That’s so exciting!!
When I moved to Calgary I moved with nothing and no plans and it was an awesome decision. Scary, yes, but also amazing.
I’m actually HOPING to be in Houston/Austin next year to visit friends and take in the F1 Race!
Ange // Cowgirl Runs recently posted…Ange + Leslie Weekend Recap
I’ve always been so inspired by people that just pick up and move, so I can’t believe I’m actually doing it! Definitely let me know when you come visit!
WOW! that is big news!! But if I ever make it to Austin I know who to visit! 🙂 There are some great races down there too!
Mar @ Mar on the Run recently posted…Race Recap: Monster Mash Half Marathon
I’m really excited for new races, and when you visit, you’ll have a place to stay 🙂
Ah Nicole!! CONGRATS! This was me almost exactly 6 months ago to a T. My husband even moved first and everything! So I can 1000% relate. Such a roller coaster of emotions but don’t be afraid to let it all out. And like you said, “change is the only way we can grow”. It will totally feel weird for a little bit and it’ll take some getting used to, but life is an adventure. Good luck with the moving process!
Ashley @ Fit Mitten Kitchen recently posted…The Most Flavorful Goat Cheese Avocado Toast
Ah I’m so happy to hear that! I’ll be coming to you for all the moving and adjusting advice! haha
Nicole, what you wrote here, ‘Everything is rushed here. It’s always go-go-go, and sometimes a girl just wants to chill-chill-chill’ …. I totally know what you mean, and that’s why I love coming back from the city to our house out in the country because everything does move slower here.
It sounds like you’re moving into a much more ideal situation, but I know that moving always comes with so many bittersweet feelings. I hope it goes super well! I can’t wait to hear what adventures you have in Austin. 🙂
Thank you so much, Emily!
Wow, how exciting!! I bet you’ll love Austin!! Good luck to you both!!!
xoxo
What an adventure!! I love your attitude about it – yes, it’s scary but no matter what NYC will always be there. It’s worth taking a chance, you could love it!
Thanks, Katie!
Austin is a great city. I have been there several times living just south in San Antonio. There’s lots to do and places to travel/see
That’s so good to hear! I hope we can meet up in person once I’m settled 🙂
Wow, that’s a big change, but I think you will love exploring Austin!
Coco recently posted…Pondering A Destination Race
Yay! How exciting for you and Will. I was in Austin last year for a few days and really liked the city and area. I hope to get back again and for a visit. Hopefully we can meet up on Marathon weekend 🙂
Let me know whenever you visit next. I’ll be there! And definitely let me know where you’re stationed for the marathon 🙂
Congrats!! How exciting and emotional and all the ups and down! You know they have lots of advertising jobs in Minneapolis, and we still have winter like NYC! Haha! Can’t wait to hear all about your amazing adventure and follow along as you get to know a new city! Umm and guess what Nada Moo Ice Cream is based there! 😉
YES! I am so excited for Nada Moo!!
How exciting! I have been through two big moves (well, not quite as big as what you’re embarking on)…we moved from Iowa to the East Lansing area when our first munchkin was a year old. It was scary, but also such a fabulous opportunity for the husband and a beautiful place to live. Fast forward seven years, 9-11 happened, and we decided to move back to be closer to family. That was scary, too. But, change is good….it allows for growth and exploration. You’ll do great!
Kimberly Hatting recently posted…Not my #typical week…
I’m glad you liked both of your moves. I moved a lot growing up, but this is my first big move as an adult. I’m excited for the new adventure!
Wow! That’s huge! And such a drastic move, too!
However, like you said… if you don’t try it, you’ll always wonder about the “what ifs.” Now is the time!
I was in Austin once, a looooong time ago. I prefer living close to a coast, but there is a lot to love about the city. Best of luck in this new adventure!
Jenn recently posted…weekly wrap: 10.16 – 10.22 + rock ‘n’ roll savannah/space coast half training week 4
What an incredible adventure for you all! I have some friends in the Austin area and they love it so much! You will be amazing no matter where you go!
I’ve heard so many great things about it. Everyone seems to love it there, so hopefully we will, too!
This is extremely exciting! It’s scary, yes, but also so amazing. I can’t wait to hear about your adventures in Austin – it’s such a cool city!
That’s so exciting! I know it’s terrifying too, but you’ll adapt and I’m sure will LOVE it. Moving to a new city isn’t easy at first, but you’ll find little places you’ll love and people are completely different in their own quirky way out there. It’s the music capital so I’m sure you’ll find something that will make you feel at home.
Thank you! I’m happy that I’ll be making the move with my fiance, so we can explore together. I’m definitely excited for the music scene!
Shut the back door!!! I was so hoping when I read the caption that it would be closer to me. Ok Austin is still a long way away but I can see myself visiting Texas in my near future!
This is great Nicole! I can hardly wait to take this journey with you.
Tricia @MissSippiPiddlin recently posted…Do You Need Variety in Your Workouts?
Thank you so much, Tricia! Let me know if you do come visit. I’d love to meet you in person!
EXCITING NEWS!!!! I know you are scared to death but you and Will have each other and like you said, so many new things to look at! Enjoy those last moments in NYC!
Mary Beth Jackson recently posted…Week 3 and I am ZOOMA ready!
Congratulations! This is very exciting! Moving to a totally new area is scary but it’s also wonderful. We’ve done it a few times and never regretted it. Enjoy the new adventures ahead!
I’m so happy to hear that you never regretted a move. Thank you!
Congrats and good luck. I moved from NY to Florida and it was the best move I made!!!!! It’s hard sometimes but totally worth it.
Toni recently posted…Caramelized Banana Coconut Chia Seed Pudding
I’m so happy to hear that from a fellow New Yorker!
Wow, what a big move! I hope you and Will love it in Austin! I’ve never been but have heard great things. It’s very scary to make such changes but I hope it’ll be a great experience for you both.
Janelle @ Run With No Regrets recently posted…12 Quick and Effective Core Workouts for Runners
Congratulations! That is really exciting news. Austin is a very cool city. You will love it there.
I’ve made so many BIG moves in the past five years. It can be terrifying if you haven’t done it before, but once you get the hang of it a big move can be so exciting. I know many people who love Austin – good luck to you both 😀
Thank you so much! Everyone who has been there seems to love it, so hopefully we will, too!
Oh my that’s a big change but I am sure it’s the right one. I’ve heard only great things about Austin. Based on all the points you considered, I would say you’re pretty ready to go and that it’s going to be a wonderful adventure. When I was 24, I left Jamaica – I left my job and my family behind and just moved to New York to follow my dream. It’s been a long, tough road, many adventures I never envisioned taking but I wouldn’t have taken back that decision for anything.
Now that I know that you’re leaving, I’ll be sure to be out cheering for you on marathon day. I’ll keep in touch with you so I’ll know what you’re wearing and how to spot you.
So excited for you, lady!
Thank you so much, Karen! It sounds like you took a huge leap too, and I’m happy to hear you don’t regret. That makes me feel so much more at ease. Definitely let me know where you’ll be watching the race!