Leaping to move abroad is always challenging, from the worries about building community in a new country, to figuring out new customs and ways of life, the adventure is nerve-wracking. Yet, amidst these challenges, the courage to return home is often overlooked.
Paige Mariah, a content creator and marketer, recently returned to her roots in the Chicago suburbs after a transformative five-year stint in London. During her time in the bustling city, she obtained her Master’s degree, appeared in a Netflix series, built a thriving digital community, and cultivated lasting friendships.
Despite the outward success in London, Paige Mariah felt in her spirit that it was time for a new adventure. The next adventure wouldn’t involve crossing literal borders but rather delving into the depths of her expectations upon returning to America.
Below, Paige Mariah candidly discusses her life after returning to America with Travel Noire, aiming to encourage individuals to embrace and honor the unique seasons they find themselves in.
Travel Noire: Looking back, how would you describe your time in London?
Paige Mariah: My time in London was a challenging yet rewarding experience. It exceeded my expectations in terms of the benefits. It brought many opportunities. I grew my YouTube channel and built a fantastic community. But living in London was also really hard. When I first left Chicago, I was just excited to leave. I felt so miserable and stagnant in my career and life. I was hopeful I could leave all my problems behind and move abroad, and life would be amazing. After the first three months, the honeymoon phase ended, and I was hit with reality. London gave me the chance to do a lot of self-work.
TN: What situations led you to move back to the United States?
PM: I originally moved to complete a one year Master’s program and ended up staying for four years and seven months. My visa ended, and I didn’t want to fight for another one. I had gotten to the point, especially after turning 30, where I was craving more stability and a change in my life. I also knew I wanted to be closer to my family, especially wanting to start a family of my own one day. I felt like I had done everything I needed to do in London. I was also ready for a career pivot and desired a more stable role than what being a full-time digital content creator and entrepreneur offered me.
TN: How did you know you were ready to move back?
PM: People can’t believe I wanted to return to the States. I was just really ready to be back home. I don’t think every decision I make has to be super permanent. I can feel differently in a few years. Right now, being back in Chicago aligns more with my current goals.
TN: How would you compare and contrast your lifestyle in London versus Chicago?
PM: My life is so much slower now that I live in the suburbs of Chicago. In London, I was a full-time content creator. London is a big city, and I traveled and attended different events because my job was to create content about my life. I work in Corporate America in the suburbs, so life is much slower. I plan to move into the city once I hit my savings goal to help rebuild my social life.
TN: What would you say to people who think moving back is a failure?
PM: Over time, I realized that London would be an adventure rather than my final destination. Everybody’s journey is their own. You have to do what works best for you at that time. I’m allowing myself to do what feels best for me and honor that time. Before I left for London, I was a person who would stay in uncomfortable situations way longer than I needed to, and I’m no longer that person.
TN: What advice do you have for those considering a move back to the United States?
PM: Before I left, I tried to find people on social media who had done the same thing. And honestly, I primarily saw negative experiences being shared. You will determine your experience when you return to the States with your mindset. I believe in the power of the tongue. I decided that when I returned, it would be a positive thing for me— and it has been. A lot of people will project their fears onto you. You can’t please everybody. Somebody will always have an opposing opinion to what you’re doing. You have to do what’s best for you.
This article has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.