When is the right time to make a change? And, a new April playlist just in time for spring break.

Plus, a bit of This & That.

What a Time to Be Alive

There's a lot of emotion in the air right now—uncertainty, tension, restlessness. Not just in the US but everywhere. Only a few years ago, we all were deep in it together as COVID turned the world upside down. That collective shake-up pushed many of us to reevaluate everything. It wasn't unusual to hear of people quitting jobs, ending relationships, moving across the globe—finally giving space to those "crazy" ideas that had always been easy to dismiss.

With another Trump era in full swing (love him or hate him), a similar sense of unease is back, it appears, much stronger than before. That feeling of standing on shifting ground. Of something big coming. And once again, people are questioning: Am I where I'm supposed to be? Is it time for a real change? We asked ourselves these same questions nearly two years ago. And, we made the leap. We let go of our life in Los Angeles and moved our family to Italy. But, if these questions are starting to pop-up for you, it doesn't just have to mean moving across the world...it could be finally moving to that city or state you've been thinking about for years or leaving the job that no longer satisfies you in the pursuit of something new. Whatever you might be contemplating, we relate, as we've gone through so many changes like this over the years.

We've learned that the right time to make a big change often comes when you're just done—when you can no longer stand the idea of repeating yesterday, today. That realization is the signal and starting point for a new reality to begin taking shape. We've heard it echoed by many others who've done the same. But it's not a moment anyone else can call for you. You'll feel it when it comes.

But don't rush. Reflection is crucial. So is preparation. Monumental change demands clear thinking, a stable mindset, and as much information as you can get your hands on. Research like your life depends on it—because, in many ways, it does. Don't just read the stuff that agrees with what you want. Study the counterpoints, too. Make lists. Map things out. Ask questions—lots of them. Talk to people who've already walked the road you're considering taking. If someone knows someone who knows someone, get their information and reach out. Don't be shy, and don't worry about bothering people. These conversations are imperative. The more people you talk to, the more you'll learn. And what you learn will help to shape and inform your journey.

Understand and know upfront that you will need a ton of acceptance within. Accept that, even with all the planning in the world, it'll still be hard. Likely one of the hardest things you'll ever do. But preparation makes it less overwhelming. You'll need a high tolerance for discomfort. You'll need guts. Curiosity. Patience—not just with the process, but with yourself and anyone you take along with you...your partner, kids, family, and friends. If, like us, your change involves moving to a new country, know this: the culture won't adapt to you. You'll need to meet it where it is, with humility and openness.

With the tumultuous nature of everything happening right now, many people have reached out lately asking about our story—especially the before part, the lead-up, and the decision-making. If you're curious, want to dive deeper, or need someone to talk it through with, we're here. There's plenty to explore on our Substack, but a real conversation can sometimes unlock things in a way reading alone can't. Use us as a resource to discuss the big life change you are contemplating...and this doesn't only apply to moving to Italy. It could be moving abroad in general, moving to a new state (we did this some years ago, too!), running a business from afar, moving with children and the emotional impacts this will have on them, trying to understand international schools and the application process, understanding how to find a new community and build new friendships, or any other topics we might be able to shed some light on. Connecting and asking questions was the best thing we did before moving. It can change your plan's entire trajectory in the best way. If that sounds like something you'd find helpful, we invite you to book a call with us. We’ve added this service to our offerings and you can now always find it in the navigation bar. Let your new adventure begin!

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Spring Break Tunes

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This & That

• If you want to read someone’s opinion on why not to move to Italy, this one had me roaring with laughter. Definitely some valid points in there though, lol.

• The Rudest Things Americans Say While Traveling Abroad. This was pretty funny too!

• I’ve been using this Roz Foundation Mask the past few weeks and it adds incredible hydration to the hair.