My dear friend, gather 'round, for I have a tale to tell — a tale of self-discovery, bold decisions, with a sprinkle of sass. It's a story that resonates with anyone who's ever felt the need to pivot, to change course, and to reclaim their narrative. It's about understanding that walking away isn't about imparting lessons to others but embracing the lessons we've learned ourselves.
The Epiphany: Recognising When Enough is Enough
We've all been there, haven't we? Stuck in situations that no longer serve us, clinging to relationships, jobs, or places out of sheer habit or fear of the unknown. But there comes a moment — a glorious, liberating moment — when we realise that staying put is no longer an option. It's not about punishing others or making grand statements; it's about honouring ourselves.
As one insightful blog aptly puts it:
"Walking away is an art — an art of letting go of situations, relationships, or circumstances that no longer serve our well-being. It's a conscious decision to release the weight that hinders our growth."
My Canadian Sojourn: Maple Leaves and Mounties
Picture this: a young, ambitious soul setting foot in the land of maple syrup, Mounties, and moose — Canada. Twenty-two years I spent in the Great White North, building a life, raising a family, and navigating the challenges that come with being an expat. Canada was kind, offering me experiences, making wonderful life-long friendships and memories I'll cherish forever. But as the years rolled on, I felt an insistent tug — a call to return to my roots, to the bustling streets of London.
The Universe Aligns: Signs Pointing Home
They say when the universe wants you to move, it doesn't whisper; it shouts. And shout it did. The cost of renting in Canada was skyrocketing to absurd levels. I mean, who wants to work just to pay rent? My landlord decided it was the perfect time to sell, and my work contract was nearing its end. It was as if the universe had conspired to give me that much-needed nudge. Everything aligned, pointing me back to London.
Seeking Closure: Healing Old Wounds
Returning wasn't just about escaping high rents or job uncertainties. It was a deeply personal journey — a quest for closure from past traumas and life lessons accumulated over the years. Walking away from a life I'd built wasn't about teaching anyone a lesson; it was about acknowledging the lessons I'd learned and choosing to heal.
The Heart-Wrenching Decision: Family Ties Across Continents
Now, let's address the elephant in the room. Deciding to move continents when your children are still in Canada? Heart-wrenching doesn't even begin to cover it. But sometimes, to be the best version of ourselves, we must make choices that seem impossible. One of boys chose to join me in London, embracing the opportunity to start afresh. Together, we embarked on this new chapter, supporting each other through the transition.
The Challenges of Repatriation: It's Not All Tea and Crumpets
Returning to the UK after years abroad isn't as simple as hopping on a plane and shouting, "I'm back!" There are challenges — oh boy, are there challenges. From navigating the trains to understanding changes in the cost of living, it's a rollercoaster. Luckily, I have our family home!
Embracing the London Vibe: A City of Endless Possibilities
Ah, London! The city that never sleeps (or is that New York?). The vibrant streets, the eclectic mix of cultures, the history seeping from every corner — it's intoxicating. Moving back felt like slipping into a familiar, albeit slightly snug, pair of shoes. There were adjustments, of course, but the city's energy was invigorating.
Reinventing Myself: The Birth of 'Happilicious'
With change comes the opportunity for reinvention. I channelled my experiences, both joyous and challenging, into creating something meaningful. I am working on creating and updating course content, keep a eye on social media. I want my courses to be dedicated to empowering women to live confidently and joyfully, especially the Indian community. Women are treated so unfairly, and I see it every day here. At the temple, the grocery stores, and the parking lots, it's an absolute disgrace and these women feel stuck! I want them to release their limiting beliefs and uncover the secrets to living their best lives.
As I often say:
"Investing in your well-being is the BEST INVESTMENT you will ever make!"
It's not about material possessions or societal expectations. True happiness stems from the relationship we have with ourselves. And sometimes, to nurture that relationship, we must make bold decisions — like moving continents or walking away from situations that no longer serve us.
The Reality Check: London Isn’t All Sparkles and Fairy Dust
I've only been here three weeks, and sometimes it feels like I’ve been here forever. But other times, wow. Everything has changed — some for the better, some for the worse. And let me tell you, the worst? The absolute state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) in some areas. It’s horrendous. Downright ugly.
I have never seen so much garbage dumped in the streets, by the lampposts, in the parks. I take Samosa for a walk every day in the park, and I can’t believe how much rubbish people throw around the benches when there’s a bin just a few steps away. And the broken booze bottles? Everywhere. It’s like a minefield of glass shards. So sometimes, we have to resort to walking in the streets, where at least people are terrified of my beautiful pooch. The silver lining? They step aside and let us pass first — and I love it!
As more and more people come from afar for whatever reason, instead of following the example of the clean streets of London, they choose to dump their rubbish everywhere as they did back home! I've seen it happening in Canada too. It’s absolutely disgusting.
I loved living in the area where I grew up, but now? Everywhere I look—people’s front and back yards, the streets, even the public bins — are overflowing with waste. It breaks my heart that people can live like this. There’s a lack of pride in the spaces they inhabit, and it’s such a stark contrast to the London I remember.
Maybe the universe brought me back home to open my eyes to all this rubbish — and perhaps, just perhaps, create awareness, a campaign to do something about it and clean up the place! Who knows? But the Universe will let me know why I am here soon enough!!
The Power of Walking Away: Embracing Self-Love and Growth
Walking away is often misunderstood. It's not an act of defiance or a tactic to elicit reactions from others. It's a profound declaration of self-love and growth. It's recognising that our well-being takes precedence and that we deserve environments and relationships that uplift us.
Final Thoughts: Cheers to New Beginnings
Life is a series of choices, each leading us down different paths. Some are exhilarating; others, daunting. But every choice shapes our journey, teaching us invaluable lessons along the way. Walking away isn't about teaching others a lesson; it's about embracing the lessons we've learned and choosing paths that align with our true selves.
So, here's to new beginnings, bold decisions, and the unwavering pursuit of happiness. Remember, you deserve to have it all. Embrace your journey, trust your instincts, and never be afraid to walk away from anything that doesn't serve your highest good.
Stay Happilicious!
