It's Officially Been 2 Months: How I Am Doing?

First off, I still can't believe that I live in Florida, let alone that I have been here for over two months. I am pretty sure I have a mark on my arm for pinching myself so much to see if I am dreaming. But here I am. I would like to say that everything went smoothly with moving down here and making this transition, but that would be a total lie. And that would defeat the whole purpose of this post and honestly this blog.

The first few weeks were really great; ate at my favorite places during my last week in Maine, roadtrip down to Florida with my long time boyfriend, stayed with friends once I arrived and then getting started with my new position. Sounds great doesn’t it. Well, let’s just say after about two-three weeks of this, reality started to sink in. As my BFF Brynne from college told me, the honeymoon stage ended.

I get stressed pretty easily and have general anxiety disorder, so I was definitely having a difficult time with things. My main stressors for sure were and are finances and being homesick. Finances are tight, which you can imagine when moving so far but it never occurred how tight until after the honeymoon stage. Thankfully, I have a much better understanding of what I am spending and taking in; will the Adult, Sam Wheeler please stand up!

What has really gotten me is how homesick I am. About two weeks ago I had a panic attack and mental breakdown that made me question everything I have done. I began questioning why I made this move, why I took this job and am I good enough for this job (major imposter syndrome creeping in), and how could I just leave everything behind. I called my parents an absolute mess, texted my BFF and my work wife, and boyfriend that I wanted to move back to Maine. To say that I am blessed with some amazing people in my life would be an absolute understatement. They helped me remember why I did this in the first place, that this is normal, and to stick with it. My new position is such a great opportunity to grow professionally, where making this move will help me grow mentally, emotionally, and personally.

Overall, it’s been a rough two-three months but it has shown me a lot about myself. I am excited to learn more in this role and explore the area. If any of you (yes I am already making the assumption that people are going to read these posts haha) have suggestions on places to go/visit in Central Florida, let me know!