A breakup sent me back to my hometown at 36. A layoff made me stay.
A 36-year-old professional shares her personal journey of returning to her hometown after a breakup and a layoff. She describes how the transition, initially perceived as a failure, ultimately led to personal healing and career growth.
Why it matters
The story reflects broader societal trends regarding the 'boomerang generation' and the shifting relationship between remote work, personal identity, and community connection.
I moved back to my hometown at 36. Lauren Paige Woulard Last year, I went through a difficult breakup, lost my job , and moved back home with my mom. At first, returning to the city I grew up in made me feel like a failure. Surprisingly, reconnecting with the community healed me and inspired my next career move. At 36, I had everything I ever wanted. I was a senior communications leader at one of the world's biggest entertainment companies, earning a title and salary that I had worked my entire career to get. Not only did I have my dream job , but also an amazing group of friends and family, a healthy relationship, and a passport that was getting stamped almost monthly. I felt like I was finally creating the life and family I always wished for. Until, suddenly, everything changed.
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