I come from a small town in New Jersey. I grew up with almost all of my family within a thirty minute radius of my house...minus one uncle. Although I loved being close to everyone, I found that I was starting to feel trapped. I felt trapped in this small-town mentality and this small-town bubble. It was making me feel suffocated.

For those who don't know what a "small-town mentality" is, it's when you believe that staying put in that very town is the best thing for you. You believe that you cannot leave this small bubble of life and explore the world. You were meant to live with the same few dozen people for the rest of your life until you are buried at the local cemetery only five miles away.

I couldn't do that. I've watched so many family members and friends get sucked into that life and every time, I would ask myself, "How can someone live like that?" I couldn't understand why you would want to stay in one spot when there is a whole world that offers so much. They would get sucked into this thought process that because their entire life is built in this small town, they cannot branch out. Maybe it's because of fear of the unknown or maybe it's because people lack the opportunity to leave?

I want to tell you that there is more in the world than just your small town. There are more people in this world with more stories to be heard. Take that leap and get out. Your family and friends will still be there for you to visit or go back to, but for now, gain a new experience and explore. Who knows, maybe you will meet the love of your life or discover a newfound love of skydiving or road-tripping?

Even now, I am one of the few members in my family who actually escaped it. It was hard breaking away from a lifeline that I've had my entire life, but I knew it was what's best for me. It gave me a sense of freedom and independence. It gave me breathing room. I can live my life without the same people I grew up with judging me. Everyday I meet new people and gain new experiences. It's like a new adventure every time I leave the house.