1. You have always felt that you didn't belong in your hometown.
Growing up, I always knew that I did not belong in the small town environment. I always knew that there were bigger and better things out in the world for me. I felt out of place because I had dreams and ideas that involved me leaving home. Others would describe their dreams and they would always include ties to home; I knew I did not want that.
2. You always wanted out of your hometown.
Your dreams did not ever involve your hometown. You wanted a career that you obviously couldn't have within the vicinity of the small town you had grown to be a part of. You always pictured your future outside of your home. I always wanted to be out of the small town element, to take on the big world and leave the tiniest speck on the map. I had decided that my dreams were more important to me than staying in a place that I wanted to be out of so desperately.
3. You never enjoyed the normal small town kid stuff.
While everyone was out riding backroads and mudding, you were the one who would stay in and read a book or binge another season on Netflix. I did this multiple times throughout my high school experience. Those things just never excited me, and I didn't think I'd miss anything by not doing it.
4. You just wanted pack up everything and go where things change and nothing is always the same.
In small towns, it is pretty normal that nothing ever changes. When something does, it is mind-boggling, and the whole town gets so excited. It was almost as if something absolutely revolutionary came to the small civilization, even though it would be something simple like a Baskin-Robbins. I loved (and still love) the idea of an environment where nothing is always the same. Yes, there are events and people you don't want to change, but I have learned that change is usually for the better.
5. You always knew that there was some place better for you.
The idea of something bigger and better has always had a hold on you. You have always wanted something beyond the boundaries of your small town. When I was able to move away from my hometown, I took the first opportunity I could. I am so happy that I did because if I hadn't, I'd still be there. I'd be stuck in the town where nothing changes, but I have found what I consider to be better. I have found people who I have a common ground with, people with a more accepting attitude, and people who want to follow their dreams.