On the Road: Nature, Vitality, & Belonging

Since moving back to the US this summer, one of my key missions has been to find my next home and community. After careful consideration, I distilled what’s most important to me to three main points - proximity to my immediate family, proximity to nature, and a community I can connect with, contribute to, and feel a sense of belonging. This past week I went back on the road to Knoxville to attend the Innov865 Week and further explore Tennessee’s third largest city.?

Here are a few things that impressed me most about my time spent there:?

?? First, it goes without saying, this area of Tennessee is gorgeous! Located along the Tennessee river and in between the Cumberland Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville is surrounded by outdoor beauty. I especially appreciate that the city also offers several parks to connect with nature, such as Cherokee Farm Park/Greenway, Fort Dickerson Quarry, and Ijams Nature Center, all within a 10 minute drive from downtown. Be still my tree hugging heart!?

??? Second, the energy in this city is palpable! In every neighborhood I went to there were always people coming and going and something going on - places to shop and eat, multiple events and meetups each week, housing being built, and roadways being improved. In addition, in the events I attended it was impressive to see what entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, and small businesses were building - from advancements in sustainable manufacturing and bioengineering, to service providers, and handmade crafters/makers. This city has a lot going on!?

?? Third, the diversity of people all coming together here in support of each other is amazing! I met people from different places, with different backgrounds and experiences, all willing to share, encourage and make connections. In addition to the City of Knoxville, the Knoxville Chamber, the University of Tennessee Knoxville, and the Knoxville entrepreneur center, I found several more regional and local establishments promoting business and community events. The network here is vibrant and welcoming!

A brief note of appreciation and gratitude to Chris McAdoo of Knoxville Entrepreneur Center , Jaclyn Kinney of eXp Realty , and Tiffany Mynatt of Persevere , all of whom immediately and selflessly made connections and recommendations to me. Your openness and eagerness to support me has fueled my excitement and desire to further know this community and explore making it my next home. I look forward to reconnecting when I am next in town.

? Making major life changes is not easy, it takes a lot of courage and patience to go for the things we want in life. While only you can take the actions to make your desires a reality, you don’t have to go at it alone. I guide people through transitions whether driven by work, life, or personal growth, by getting clarity on the changes being made, nurturing the confidence and strength to walk through the changes, and following through to realize the changes in full. Reach out today, and let's explore, grow, and thrive together!

#Community #NewBeginnings #Entrepreneurship #Coaching #LifeTransitions