Millennial Guide To Building Meaningful Life In Rural America

Living in rural America offers a unique lifestyle that many millennials are now starting to embrace. The serene landscapes, close-knit communities, and slower pace of life can provide an environment conducive to building a meaningful and fulfilling life. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various aspects that millennials should consider when looking to establish themselves in rural America and create a life that goes beyond the hustle and bustle of urban living.

The Benefits of Rural Living for Millennials

Before delving into the finer details, let's first understand why rural living can be so appealing to millennials. After years of being immersed in fast-paced city life, many young adults are seeking a change. The allure of being closer to nature, enjoying cleaner air, and having more space for personal growth are just a few reasons why rural living is drawing the attention of this generation.

Think Small: A Millennial's Guide to Building a Meaningful Life in Rural America

by Matthew Hoagland (Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4636 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	60 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

In addition, the cost of living in rural areas is generally lower compared to urban centers, making it an attractive option for millennials looking to establish themselves financially. With lower housing costs, less competition for jobs, and reduced expenses overall, millennials can experience a better work-life balance and have more time to engage in meaningful activities.

Finding the Right Rural Community

One of the keys to building a meaningful life in rural America is finding the right community that aligns with your values and interests. Start by researching different regions and towns that meet your criteria. Consider factors such as community engagement, access to amenities and healthcare, educational opportunities, and the overall culture of the area.

Visiting potential communities is crucial to get a feel for the area and connect with local residents. Attend local events, join community groups, and speak to individuals who have already made the move to rural America. Their insights can provide valuable information and help you determine if the community is a good fit for your lifestyle.

Embracing Self-Sustainability

Living in a rural area often means being more self-sufficient. Embracing self-sustainability not only benefits the environment but also allows millennials to take control of their lives in a more meaningful way. Consider starting a vegetable garden, raising chickens for eggs, or exploring renewable energy sources through solar panels or wind turbines. Taking steps towards self-sustainability can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment, while also reducing living expenses in the long run.

Professional Opportunities in Rural Areas

Contrary to popular belief, rural areas offer a wide range of professional opportunities for millennials. While larger cities may offer more job prospects, the competition can be fierce. In rural America, there may be a higher demand for certain skills and professions, offering millennials a chance to make a significant impact and contribute to the local community.

Explore industries that are thriving in the rural area you are considering moving to. This could include agriculture, renewable energy, education, healthcare, or even technology. Additionally, remote work has become increasingly prevalent, so millennials can bring their urban jobs to a rural context while enjoying a different lifestyle.

Becoming Involved in the Rural Community

To build a meaningful life in rural America, it is necessary to become an active participant in the community. Attend local events, volunteer for community initiatives, and join local organizations that align with your interests. Building relationships and connections with fellow residents will not only enhance your sense of belonging but also provide opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Rural communities often rely on the collective efforts of their residents to address local challenges and improve the overall quality of life. By getting involved, millennials can make a difference and contribute to the sustainable development of their chosen community.

Building a Supportive Network

Living in a rural area may sometimes be isolating, especially if you are used to the constant buzz of city life. Building a supportive network is crucial to building a meaningful life in rural America. Attend local networking events, connect with like-minded individuals through social media platforms, and seek out mentorship opportunities.

Additionally, consider joining online communities and forums specifically catered to rural living or the interests that are important to you. These online networks allow you to connect with individuals who share your vision and can provide guidance and support through your rural journey.

Exploring Recreational Opportunities

Rural America is filled with breathtaking natural landscapes and an abundance of recreational opportunities that can contribute to a fulfilling life. From hiking and camping to fishing or horseback riding, there are countless ways to explore and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you.

Take the time to research local parks, trails, and recreational facilities that offer activities you enjoy. Engaging in physical activities not only promotes a healthier lifestyle but also provides a connection to nature, reducing stress and promoting overall well-being.

Adapting to Rural Living Challenges

While rural living offers numerous advantages, it is important to acknowledge and prepare for the challenges that may arise. Limited access to certain amenities, transportation limitations, and potential isolation from urban conveniences are aspects that require planning and adaptation.

Research alternative solutions to mitigate these challenges, such as carpooling with other residents, exploring online shopping options, or creating partnerships with nearby towns for shared resources. Building resilience and adaptability will be vital when establishing yourself in rural America.

Millennials looking for a meaningful life beyond the confines of urban living can find solace and purpose in rural America. By immersing themselves in a close-knit community, embracing self-sustainability, and actively participating in local initiatives, millennials can create fulfilling lives while connecting with nature and enjoying a slower pace of life.

Rural America offers endless possibilities for personal and professional growth. By embracing the unique opportunities and challenges that come with rural living, millennials can build lives that are rich in purpose, meaning, and satisfaction.

Think Small: A Millennial's Guide to Building a Meaningful Life in Rural America

by Matthew Hoagland (Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4636 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	60 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

In 2015, Matthew Hoagland and his fiancée were living typical millennial lives in trendy Asheville, North Carolina, when they decided to move to one of the smallest towns in the state. They suspected they were in for a big lifestyle change and they were right. But in exactly the opposite way you’d think!

This memoir/how-to hybrid takes readers on the journey of how Matthew and his wife not only managed to adjust to living in a small town, they established a much better life there. From creating their own wedding venue, to buying a house for just $39,000, and landing one of the most high-profile jobs in town, Hoagland uses his own experience to give struggling millennials a step-by-step guide to use while building their own meaningful life in “the middle of nowhere.”

In a post COVID-19 world, this book gives readers in their twenties and thirties a roadmap for success where they least expect it: rural America. Many millennials are college grads, have a drive to succeed, and a desire to be part of something bigger than themselves. But they’re also stuck with jobs that don't match their degrees; paying just enough to cover rent but leaving them feeling unappreciated. Then there’s the record student loan debt! The solution to their problems may come from the lower cost of living, limitless career opportunities, and more meaningful connections found in rural America.
This book shows them how.