Instagram story viewer> @averypaulen> Post
3 days ago
13
Posted On: July 22nd 2026, 03:39 pm
Real talk (and I’m usually not this vulnerable on social media)

To those who see this, this was meant to find you.

New York can sometimes feel like you either eat or get eaten. Over the last 2.5 years, no matter how prepared I thought I was for it, this city has beaten me down and made me question whether I even belong here.

I grew up coming to New York every weekend from New Jersey, but nothing could have really prepared me for the struggles that come with actually living here — financially, professionally, and personally. I constantly go back and forth about what I want to do with my life. I question whether I’m in the right industry or chose the right career path. I question who I want to surround myself with, who I can trust, and whether the financial struggle is worth it when there are so many other challenges beyond just paying rent.

But at the end of the day, I’ve grown so much over these last 2.5 years. This city has turned me into someone more resilient, more determined, and more hungry for everything life has to offer.

Even though New York is tough, I love the spontaneity it’s brought into my life. I love the people I’ve met who I know will have my back no matter what. And even through all the struggle, there is so much opportunity here to learn, grow, meet people, take chances, and become an even better version of yourself.

I will forever be grateful that I get to call this city home and for all of the beautiful, unexpected opportunities it has given me.

So, if you’re struggling, feeling lost, or questioning whether New York is right for you, please know you’re not alone. Don’t ever hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to talk. 🤍

#manifestation #growth #nyc #explore #life
Comments (13)
jodi.paulen1 2 days ago

jodi.paulen1

My strong beautiful resilient daughter!! I'm so proud of you and all that you have done in such a short amount of time. The sky's the limit! ILY🔥💪❤️

mlrehak 2 days ago

mlrehak

❤️

nycvipvic 2 days ago

nycvipvic

🔥

lilydrasutis 2 days ago
bishan_chaudhary30 3 days ago

bishan_chaudhary30

Manifestation 2026

return.queen 3 days ago

return.queen

🔥🔥

newyork_.explores 3 days ago

newyork_.explores

Forward to me

averypaulen 3 days ago

averypaulen

#selfhealingjourney #healing #newyork #newyorkcity

newyork_diarys_ 3 days ago

newyork_diarys_

Share me this post 😍

More posts

back to up