I live alone in St. Louis and want to be somewhere but here. I like to know when will it all come together. When will I be content. I think I need to move out of this apartment and live in community. Don't know how to make it happen.
i want a different job. I want to move back to NC. I have not much money. I need inspiration and creative fellowship. How to find it?
Tell me what you think!
Catsunshine

Cat,

Sorry to hear you're lonely and wanting to make some changes. I know how hard that can be.

I've always found that the more active I am in making myself think happy, the more happy I am. Even though it's really easy to focus on what isn't right in my life, when I stop to remember and be grateful for the things that are working, I find I brighten up immediately. Practicing gratitude has been one of the best things I ever did.

Also, how active are you in your community? When I've felt lonely and unhappy, I've done volunteer work. It's great because I feel I'm making a difference in someone else's life, I usually make new friends and if I'm lucky I learn new skills. Maybe there is a Woman's Chamber of Commerce or other women's group you could join.

Also, I think being spiritually active is important. If you're religious, joining a church is one of the best ways I know to feel part of a community. And, if you're not reliigous, just going to a book store or library to see what they have in self-improvement or self-help can give you some great food for thought in how to create a life that's more satisfying to you. Maybe there is a book or discussion group on the subject.

I hope that helps. Those are some things that have made a huge difference to me.

Hello Catshunshine!

I can hear the loneliness in your writing. And yes change can be very hard!

I moved to NC almost three years ago to start my new life. Yes, it’s a beautiful place! There have been many challenges especially concerning making social connections. I was so surprised at how hard it is meeting others as you get older and your life situation changes!

I do not work, but I knew I wanted my life to be meaningful, so I put a lot of thought into what my passions are, what’s important to me.

I have done several volunteer activities, which accomplished a couple of things for me. I ended up meeting great people and have been so grateful for the opportunity to help others.

There is a great social networking website called meetup.com. They are in most cities/metro areas and offer activities and events for nearly every interest. I joined several after I moved here and have met the nicest people! My most active ones include a walking group and a singles dining out group. Meetup will have anything you might be interested in, from spirituality to hobbies to business ventures to girls’ night out or single groups, etc. You can spend hours looking through all the groups in your area.

City-data.com has a wealth of information too. Lots of people networking about jobs, relocation advice and places to live.

Do you have a timeframe for moving to NC? Will you be able to live with your family temporarily while you get settled?

Best of luck to you, Cat! I hope your dream of moving to NC comes true!