Embrace Life’s Journey: From a Greek Island to the Wider World

When people ask me where I’m from, I tell them it’s a small Greek island (yes, this is it in the photo, Samos). And, without fail, they respond with a puzzled, “Why are you here? You had the dream life!” But the truth is, I didn’t always feel that way growing up. It’s a lesson I’ve wholeheartedly embraced: sometimes, the life we dream of isn’t necessarily the life we’re meant to lead.

I’ve always yearned for adventure, the hustle and bustle of big cities, and the chance to meet people from around the world. I craved the vibrant energy of big cities and the exciting chances they offer. And I found it, first in Madrid, then in Amsterdam and finally in London. London had everything I felt I’d been missing on the peaceful island — the lively streets, the cultural diversity, the fast pace of life, and endless avenues for personal and professional growth.

But here’s the unexpected twist in my journey: as I fully immersed myself in London’s dynamic lifestyle, I came to appreciate my island upbringing much later. I found myself missing the simple pleasures I’d once taken for granted. Waking up by the sea, the sense of community that felt like one big family, the intimacy, the trust and care that defined every interaction, and of course, the amazing food and never-ending sunshine! These aspects of life that I initially…