It’s Not What You’re Doing, But Where

2 min

One thing I’ve come to appreciate about living in New York is how it nudges me out of my comfort zone, even in the most mundane parts of life, like my commute. Recently, I switched things up by taking the ferry instead of the subway—a small change with a surprisingly profound effect. As the ferry glided across the water, the city unveiled itself in ways the subway never could. I wasn’t just moving from point A to B; I was immersed in a panoramic experience. The skyline stretched out before me, the iconic Pepsi-Cola sign in Long Island City stood tall, and the bridges spanning the East River offered a new perspective of the city’s vastness.

The ferry ride was more than just a visual treat; it was an auditory one. The gentle lapping of waves against the hull, the hum of the engine, and the wind whipping around created a calming ambiance. Conversations seemed less rushed, as if the water’s calm was contagious. For once, I wasn’t just another hurried New Yorker; I was reconnecting with the elements—the sun warming my face, the breeze awakening the hairs on my arms—finding a rare moment of peace in the city that never sleeps. Without the usual distractions, I found clarity on issues that had been clouding my mind for months. This simple shift in environment sparked new ideas and allowed me to see old problems with fresh eyes.

This experience reminded me how much our surroundings can influence our mindset. When life feels overwhelming, it’s often not about what we’re doing but where we’re doing it. It’s easy to think that gaining a new perspective requires a grand change, like moving to a new city or traveling across the world. But you don’t need a dramatic leap to benefit from changing your space.

Sometimes, small shifts can make a big difference. It could be as simple as taking a different route home or having an offsite meeting. When things aren’t working, it might not be due to a lack of effort or intention but because we’re stuck in an environment that no longer serves us. Moving to a new space—whether it's a different city, a new country, or just a different room—can shift our perspective in unexpected ways. It can broaden our worldview and reshape our understanding of ourselves and our surroundings.

So, if you ever find yourself feeling stuck or uninspired, consider changing your space. It doesn’t have to be a grand move; even small changes can bring new energy and perspective into your life. Embrace the discomfort that comes with change, for it’s often in those moments of uncertainty that we discover the most about ourselves. Stepping into a new space might lead to unexpected growth and transformation—sometimes in ways you never imagined.

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