Moving to Smögen
Good morning! I’m sitting here enjoying the most wonderful breakfast at the Scandic Hotel near Landvetter Airport. A complete spread of everything: cold cuts, various cheese selections, beautifully presented yogurt fruit cups, herring with dill, fresh bread, and so much more. I was in breakfast heaven.
My flight landed close to midnight, so I decided to book a night at the hotel and pick up the rental car this morning.
When I told the receptionist that I was driving to Smögen today, he shuddered and said, “Brrrr! It’s a summer destination. What are you doing there?” I smiled and said, “I’m moving there.” But first, breakfast!
It was during breakfast that I was reflecting on how much I have compromised my happiness in my life to keep others content, calm, and happy. Sitting at the breakfast table, it felt strange to make a choice purely for myself. I felt guilty, but I realised it was that guilt that had kept me trapped in an inauthentic life. I have learned that it is not selfish to put yourself first. I believe that we all came to this planet to enjoy our true selves and to share our joy with the world. But how can I lift others up if I am not happy within myself and my own life choices? How can I attract genuine relationships into my life if I am not being genuine with myself?
The reality of moving to Sweden had not fully sunk in yet. My body was exhausted from the travel, but in my heart I knew I was finally taking responsibility for my future happiness. That felt empowering.
I made myself a sandwich for the drive ahead and enjoyed all my childhood favorites. I was like a kid in a candy store, having pancakes, apple juice, and a cheese sandwich.
I kept telling myself, ‘I’m here, I’m really here,’ but it felt surreal, as if part of me couldn’t believe it was real. For the longest time, all my decisions had been to accommodate other people’s feelings, opinions, and expectations. I had compromised my happiness for far too long. This was my moment to overcome codependency and come alive again.