Life in the City vs. Living Close to Nature: Tips to Achieve Your Dream

Living in the city can be a fast-paced and often unyielding experience, especially if you find yourself yearning for the embrace of nature. However, this doesn't mean that your dream of moving away from the city and living close to nature is out of reach. Here are some steps to help you transition to a more natural way of life.

Let Nature Wash Over You

Start by indulging in some simple, yet profound, experiences. Visit a park on the weekends or spend your lunch break in a green space near your workplace. Simply walking barefoot in the grass can rejuvenate your spirit. Engage with nature by exploring new trails or simply sitting quietly in a natural setting. These experiences can provide a sanity-saving reprieve from the urban environment.

Seek Employment Opportunities in Conservation

If your passion for nature leads you to seek employment, consider job opportunities with agencies such as the US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Forest Service, or the National Park Service. While a degree in environmental sciences can enhance your prospects, even voluntary work or internships can give you invaluable experience and exposure to the natural world. These roles will not only fulfill your desire to be in nature but will also contribute to the conservation of our planet.

Explore City Nature Spots and Nearby Vacancies

While it might seem challenging to escape the city entirely, you can find pockets of nature within the urban environment. Many cities have public parks and green spaces that offer solace and tranquility. Even if the nearest park isn't ideal, it can still fulfill the need for nature and relaxation. Additionally, consider visiting green spaces on your weekends or during your day off. You might be surprised at the variety of ecosystems hidden within cities.

For those days when you long to stretch your legs beyond the city limits, cities often have easy access to nature through public transport or personal vehicle. Plan a day trip to a nature reserve, a riverbank, or even a stretch of beach. These outings can offer a refreshing change of scenery and a much-needed mental break.

Take a Step Back and Reevaluate

If you are feeling particularly desperate to move, it's important to take a step back and assess your situation. Why do you feel you are stuck? Is it the city, a specific job, or a personal circumstance? It's important to understand the root of your desire to live in nature. Once you have clarity, you can develop a plan to address these underlying issues.

Options might include finding a new job, relocating to a suburb or rural area, or even starting a side project that blends your love for nature with a creative endeavor. Each step you take is a step towards a more fulfilling life.

Apps and Resources for Guiding Your Adventure

To help you plan and execute your vision of a life close to nature, consider utilizing apps and resources. Many apps, such as Note Taking apps for trip planning, Google Earth for exploration, and trail maps for hiking, can assist you in navigating your new lifestyle. Additionally, forums and groups dedicated to outdoor living can provide support and advice from others who have made the transition.

Finding Your Dream Cabin

For those with a more long-term vision, buying a neglected cabin on a lake or in the woods can be a rewarding investment. With the right approach, you can turn this project into a personal sanctuary. Here’s how:

Research and Selection: Look for properties that are overgrown or abandoned on public lands or private properties. Note that acquiring such properties can vary widely depending on local laws. Finance and Negotiation: Save money and offer a fair price for the property. Initially, the cabin might be cheap, but as your improvements pay off, the value of the property will grow. Improvements and Investments: Use weekends and evenings to work on the cabin, whether it’s cleaning, painting, or rebuilding a patio. Every task will bring you closer to your dream and increase the property’s value. Enjoyment and Pride: Once the cabin is your own, you’ll have a place to relax, connect with nature, and create lasting memories. This project will be a lifelong achievement and a source of pride.

Embrace Life and Make It Happen

Life is a precious opportunity to live your best life. It's not just a rehearsal, but a chance to make dreams a reality. Don't let uncertainty or fear hold you back. Take action, make a plan, and take the first step towards a more fulfilling life.

Remember, every step towards nature is a step towards a more vibrant, joyful life. Don't let the fear of change prevent you from experiencing the serenity and beauty that nature offers. Embrace the journey and make it happen for yourself.