So I know we’ve only just met.
But I’d guess that we could toss around words like hectic, frenetic, and hustle to describe your current lifestyle.
Maybe the used-to-be dream job feels especially draining lately.
Maybe you’d love to build some solid new friendships, but your tank is on low by the end of the work day.
Maybe you’ve been in that city a few years longer than planned. (You’d relocate in a heartbeat, of course! Just haven’t had the chance to catch your breath long enough to make a game plan for the next chapter of your life.)
On the deepest level, you know you’re ready for that chapter. The downshift. The relaxed nervous system. The healthier lifestyle. The community that feels like a welcome mat in front of your bestie’s house, instead of a competition.
So today, I’m sharing a story about decision fatigue and how it relates to life in State College. It’s a small peek into a lifestyle that just might be the sigh of relief your brain is ready for.
Options, without the decision fatigue.
A sigh of relief for your busy brain
So the other day, my husband was in line at Crust & Crumb, this feels-like-a-special-occasion-every-time-you-go local café. (Their baguette sandwiches and cheesecake are like no freaking other. It’s a “go for breakfast, go back for lunch” kind of place.)
Anyway, he was talking with a woman in line next to him who had moved here from NYC and she mentioned how much she loved this café. She was used to having all kinds of options in the city and even though there were clearly a lot fewer to choose from in State College, this was her go-to spot when she needed to satisfy her “cute city café” craving.
It made me appreciate the fact that State College may have fewer options than a city, but 9 times out of 10? You’ll find something great that totally hits the spot, without spending a ton of energy, mentally scrolling through and considering a never-ending list of choices.
(Side note: Did you know that NYC has more than 3,000 coffee shops? I’d bet money that most people who live there regularly frequent… 3 of them.)
While there are definitely times when having a few more options around town would be great, after 6 years of living here, I’ve found that State College consistently comes through.
There are enough options to meet the moment, without the decision fatigue. (And we’re close enough to NYC, Philly, Pittsburgh, and DC that weekends away to soak up some city vibes and the option-overload that goes along with them are always accessible.)
Having fewer options and removing lots of little decisions from my plate has cleared up so much brain space for other priorities in my life, like building my small business and keeping better tabs on my mental health.
There’s lots more to say about the many ways that State College makes a slower (not the same as boring!), healthier, and more balanced lifestyle accessible, but more to come. I hope you’ll browse the blog to learn more about what’s possible here in the valley and reach out if you’ve got any questions we can answer about relocating!
Much more soon. In the meantime, I’m sending you off into your week with lots of great small-town vibes from State College.
Have a good one!
Laura Mustio made her way to State College via Pittsburgh in 2015. Her writing celebrates our area’s hidden gems, treasured locals, and not-to-be-missed experiences.
