The title might sound absurd to many of you living in metros, but if you have ever lived in a small town (Population ranging from 1 to 2 million), you might agree! If you have grown up watching or reading those fictional fairytale-like stories imagining yourself as the protagonist of the story, trust me! those things actually happen in small towns. To boost your imagination, if you have seen the "Gilmore Girls" web series - the fictional town "Stars Hollow" life is what I am talking about here with " la la la..." playing in the background. I have lived in such a town for almost 15 years and looking back now I can totally resonate. In small towns, everyone is friendly, there are big bungalows, clear air, the weather's not too hot and the vibe is very peaceful. I never fully appreciated the unique charms of growing up away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities. It's only now, after spending nearly as much time living in metropolitan areas, that I can see the stark contrasts clearly. Life in the metro is a world apart: you blend into the crowd, unknown and knowing none; friendly neighbours are a rarity, if not a myth; the air is often hot and heavy with pollution; and living spaces are notably smaller.
Living in big cities undeniably offers a plethora of opportunities and exposure, but it often leads me to wonder: must I always be in pursuit of these opportunities, and what exactly is the payoff? When I consider the typical career trajectory in the corporate world, not everyone reaches the C-suite, not everyone becomes a renowned entrepreneur, and few achieve financial freedom by their 30s through investing. Indeed, most people do end up leading decent lives and perhaps pave a smoother path for their children based on their experiences.
Conversely, when I look at the average demographic in small towns, the picture seems quite different. There, people often accumulate multiple real estate properties, enjoy a richer social life, hold a certain popularity in their circles, and generally lead healthier, happier, and more contented lives. This stark contrast between city and small-town living raises important questions about the true cost of urban opportunities and the quality of life we ultimately attain.
Indeed, while I'm not suggesting that everyone should pack up and move back to small towns, this observation does prompt a moment of reflection. It's an opportunity for us to pause, look back at our journey, and consider where we are heading. Are the choices we're making in pursuit of opportunities genuinely leading us toward the life we aspire to? This introspection can help us assess whether our current path aligns with our long-term goals and personal definitions of success and fulfilment.