""While reminiscing about my late grandmother, who once boarded a one-way boat ride to the US in the 1950s and never returned home to her then-fiancé, I began thinking about what it takes to leave everything behind - whether that's friends, family, or familiarity - and start anew. Curious, I turned to Reddit and the BuzzFeed Community to hear from people who've done exactly that. Their stories were a powerful reminder that we are all just one decision away from a completely different life:""
""I faked a big move and cut ties with family and friends. I live about 20 miles from my old home and kept my job. It has been two years, and my anonymity remains intact. I live a happy life now without the drugs, drama, and abuse in my prior life. I still keep in contact with my little brother, but that's it. Everybody else thinks I now live in Russia.""
""I met with my managers ASAP and gave my notice. They basically said I wasn't allowed to leave, and they tried to use my inexperience and naivety to force me into staying. So, I called out that night, emailed a resignation letter, and was on a plane the next morning. It was 1000% worth it. I've had a successful, more fulfilling career ever since with actual work-life balance and a comfortable salary." -Anonymous, 35, New York City"
A grandmother boarded a one-way boat to the US in the 1950s and never returned to her fiancé. Memories of her inspired a collection of personal accounts about leaving everything behind and starting anew. One person faked a move, severed most family ties, and kept only contact with a sibling to escape drugs, drama, and abuse while retaining anonymity. Another left an overnight-shift job mid-contract after confirming no legal barrier, resigned immediately, and moved states for a dream opportunity that improved work-life balance and salary. A 19-year-old packed belongings and disappeared from an obsessive, controlling boyfriend to gain safety and independence.
Read at BuzzFeed
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