Looking for advice on whether I should move to Hawaii
I’m 20F, born and raised in the Midwest, and I currently live in a very rural area that honestly doesn’t suit me at all. Lately I’ve been struggling to figure out what I want from life, and I’m starting to feel like I need to take a leap and get out of my comfort zone. I’ve also been dealing with anxiety and depression, and I think a major change of environment might help me grow.
A family member of mine may be getting stationed in Hawaii, and I’ve been considering going with them for a while to experience something completely different. The opportunity feels exciting, but also intimidating. I’ve heard mixed things about how locals feel toward mainlanders, and I really don’t want to come across as disrespectful or entitled. I’m naturally pretty quiet, shy, and socially anxious, but I do genuinely care about being respectful and learning about local customs/culture before going.
One of my biggest concerns is whether I’ll be able to find “my people” there. I’m more alternative/creative, and I tend to feel out of place already where I live now. I’m worried I’ll end up feeling isolated or disconnected if I move somewhere so unfamiliar.
For anyone who’s moved to Hawaii (especially from the mainland), what was your experience like? Did it help you grow as a person, or did it end up feeling lonely? Any advice or reality checks are appreciated.