Throughout my life, I have transitioned from the lively and fast-paced environment of Mexico City to the serene and intimate setting of Burlington. Each successive move to a smaller city has not been a retreat but rather an evolution—an external reflection of the internal stages of my personal and professional growth. In the beginning, the energy, ambition, and vibrant pulse of large urban centers mirrored the drive I felt within. They offered endless opportunities for connection, creativity, and exploration—a space in which ambition could stretch to its limits.

However, as the years passed, I discovered that fulfillment did not solely arise from motion, noise, or constant stimulation. Gradually, my priorities began to shift: balance replaced busyness, and depth took precedence over speed. The progression from one city to the next—each smaller, quieter, and more introspective—mirrored a conscious redefinition of success. Living in smaller communities brought a heightened sense of clarity and belonging, encouraging a life more focused on meaning rather than momentum.

Mexico City, with its restless dynamism, represented youth, aspiration, and exploration. Later cities, with slower rhythms and closer-knit communities, became places of stability, reflection, and deeper connection—both with others and with myself. Burlington, my current home, captures this final harmony perfectly: it offers tranquillity without isolation, purpose without pressure, and beauty that is not overwhelming but quietly profound.

In embracing smaller city living, I’ve learned that growth is not always measured by expansion—it can just as easily be defined by refinement. Sometimes, the most meaningful development comes not from adding more but from carefully subtracting, creating the space for authenticity and peace to flourish. Every chapter, whether in a hectic metropolis or a peaceful town, has provided precisely what was needed in its moment. Ultimately, this journey has taught me that genuine progress often begins the moment we allow ourselves to slow down and simply breathe in the life we have built. 🌆➡️🌄

Sourse: https://www.businessinsider.com/lived-in-different-cities-age-mexico-city-washington-dc-burlington-2026-1