In less than 450 square miles, just over eight million residents call the New York City their home. It is the most populace metropolitan area in the United States: the city of opportunity, the city of success and the city of failure. So, what does it take to succeed living in the city? What does the city have to offer you, and what do you have to offer it? Delving into these questions will help inform whether moving to New York City is right for you.
Living in the city is something that no native New Yorker takes for granted. Just like natives from Boston, Philadelphia and Los Angeles, you can easily spot a true New Yorker in a crowd. What makes New York a special place is the attitude of the citizens who created their life here. Outsiders are quick to characterize the city as arrogant, no-nonsense and fast paced, but the city and outer boroughs are filled with unique, interesting, and driven individuals who are some of the most compassionate and generous in the country. New York City is one of, if not the most, culturally diverse and socially accepting places to live. The city can offer refuge to those who cannot find a niche in other places; it can offer opportunity through jobs and social connections that other areas of the county do not possess.
The most important trait about moving is having an open mind. One must be eager and ambitious. Remember, there is always a place to fit in. For those that are already social butterflies, the city can enhance your life to the fullest. Restaurants, bars and clubs are open to the early hours of the morning, and there is always a packed place to go. This might seem overwhelming to someone from a rural area, however, each person finds their favorite place to spend their weekends and blow off steam. If taking it easier is more on pace with your lifestyle, the New York City offers more than enough. With a coffee shop on almost every block, a huge public park in the center of most boroughs, and shows, gardens, concerts, and two baseball teams, the city really does offer something special to everyone.
New York City is driven. Succeeding here is tough, but enjoying the moments you have along the way is key. The friends and people you will meet here will be different than any you already have. Leaving your own footprint can be one of the more exhilarating aspects of calling New York home. Remember, the city will have a lot to offer you, but you will also have a lot to offer the city.
If you are on the fence about moving to New York City, know that the risk you take will more than likely be rewarded. The city is not for everyone, but it is for most people. You may be very overwhelmed at first, but finding your track, conquering and reaching your personal summit provide no better feeling.
Written By: James Glassman, James@psofnyc.com