#17: big moves

Everything you've ever wanted is sitting on the other side of fear.

I’ve always loved this quote by George Addair, and recently, it’s been on my mind as I navigate a series of big (and frankly, pretty scary) decisions.

Before we dive in, let me say this: I’m a big believer that if something is calling to you, it’s for a reason. That “something” could be an opportunity, a person, a career, a place—anything.

Learning to recognize and trust your intuition is so powerful because it gives you the courage to make bold changes in instances where fear or uncertainty might hold otherwise hold you back.

That said, no matter how in tune you are with your inner knowing, it can be daunting to leave things behind—whether that’s leaving a job, a city, friends, relationships, or the routines that you know.

Which brings me to my next update: after four expansive and beautiful years in Dubai, I’ve officially moved to Miami.

This decision was guided by proximity to people I love, lifestyle compatibility, and ultimately, a powerful gut feeling.

Sitting down to write this newsletter, I realized I’ve moved continents four times in the last eight years: from New York to Paris and back, New York to Taiwan and back, New York to Dubai, and now from Dubai to Miami.

With each move, I’ve refined my own personal playbook for settling into a new city.

Today, I want to share a few of the strategies that have helped me hit the ground running.

Because if I can do it, so can you. 🙂

I hope this inspires somebody out there to take the leap they’ve been daydreaming about.

P.S. Know someone moving soon? Forward this to them!

How to Thrive in a New City: The Playbook

1. 🔎 Find your passions, find your people

Social media is an incredible tool for finding communities that align with your passions. For me, that’s fitness, wellness, diving, and networking groups for women in business, founders, creators, and operators.

Try a simple Instagram search for “your city + your interest.” For example, I searched “Miami fitness” and found a mix of wellness groups, running clubs, and fitness studios. Look for events or reach out to community leaders directly to get involved.

2. 🤝 Ask for intros

Even if you don’t know anyone in your new city, chances are you know someone who used to live there, worked there, or studied there—or you have a connection one or two steps removed.

Let those people know you’re moving and ask to meet up. You can also announce your move on Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn and ask for introductions.

Intros beget intros, and it often only takes getting to know 1 or 2 people for your social and professional circles to start opening up.

3. 🫡 SAY YES!

Moving to a new city is a beautiful opportunity for reinvention.

Try to show up to everything with genuine curiosity and stay curious about trying new things. It is extremely important to say yes to everything in the beginning—social events, meetups, activities.

Leave your assumptions behind and fully immerse yourself in the adventure of it.

4. 🏙️ Show up consistently

Building trust and relationships takes time and consistency. Commit to showing up for events, activities, and gatherings regularly. This will keep you top of mind with new friends and professional networks.

The kiss of death in a new city is spending too much time in your own apartment.

Get out as often as you can and increase your surface area for luck.

5. 💎 Add value 

Always aim to give more than you take. Offer to help, host events, or support the people you meet in any way you can. Acts of kindness and service build lasting relationships and open unexpected doors.

And on the flip side, accept help when it’s offered.

💭 Closing thoughts

Sometimes decisions will feel black and white and other times, less so.

It took me years to learn to truly hear and trust my intuition, but that inner knowing is available to all of us.

If something is calling to you, there’s a reason for it. Developing the self-trust to make bold decisions with confidence is a gift that keeps on giving.

I’m working on something special that dives deeper into this topic. If reconnecting with your intuition is a 2025 goal for you, reply to this email, and I’ll add you to the list for early access.

🎙️ An update on the podcast

The Well Path Podcast is coming back! After a brief hiatus while I (quite literally) moved across the world, I’m so excited to be getting back on the mic.

Starting next Wednesday, January 15, we’ll bring you new episodes every other week.

Our first episode of the year features someone I deeply admire. She’s mastered the art of positive thinking, achieving incredible physical feats as a result. This conversation is a masterclass in transforming your reality through mindset—it’s going to leave you inspired and ready to take on the world.

Subscribe on Spotify:

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts:

🫶 A few more changes…

1. We’ve moved to beehiiv!

You may have noticed this email is formatted differently than previous ones. That’s because we’ve moved from Substack to Beehiiv. Nothing is changing for you – I’ll still meet you in the same place (your inbox).

2. Switching things up

The Well Path Podcast will continue to come out on Wednesday mornings. This newsletter will now follow on Thursday afternoons. We’re also moving from weekly to bi-weekly episodes & editions.

See you next week!

Love, Brooke

P.S. If we’re not connected already, follow @brookechapinrobbins on Instagram for more podcast clips, behind-the-scenes content, and your daily dose of wellness