"Maybe we all have different definitions of what home is."

Home means something different to everyone. At its core, it's a place where you feel safe, content, and yourself. For some, it's a physical location – a house with a white picket fence or a bustling city apartment. For others, it's the people they're with or even a state of mind.

Think back to the early 20th century. Immigrants were arriving in America in droves, seeking better lives. For them, home wasn't just a place; it was a dream, a hope for a fresh start. They often lived in crowded, unfamiliar neighborhoods, but as long as they were together, they found comfort. Their definition of home evolved from a distant memory of a land they left behind to the new community they were building.

Imagine you're a digital nomad bouncing around the globe with just a backpack. Your "home" might be the cozy café in Bangkok where the barista knows your name or the beach in Bali where you find peace. It's not about permanence; it's about the feeling of belonging, even if it's fleeting.

Consider Sarah, a friend of mine. Growing up, she moved almost every year because her dad was in the military. She didn't have the typical childhood home. Instead, home for her was the rituals her family kept – weekly movie nights, Sunday morning pancakes, and the feeling of her mom's hug. Wherever they were, those traditions made any place feel like home.

So, how do we apply this idea in our lives? Start by identifying what makes you feel at ease. Is it a favorite armchair, a beloved pet, or certain scents and sounds? Incorporate these elements into your living space. Create routines and traditions that anchor you. If you're constantly on the move, find small ways to make each new place feel familiar – maybe you always buy fresh flowers or cook a specific meal.

Imagine this: You're on a work trip, staying in yet another hotel. It's sterile and impersonal. But then you unpack a few small items – a photo of loved ones, a book you've been reading, and your favorite tea. Suddenly, the room feels a bit more like home. You call a friend and chat like you would if you were back in your own living room. Those small touches help bridge the gap between where you are and where you feel at home.

In essence, home is deeply personal and unique to each of us. It transcends four walls and a roof. It's about where you find joy, who you're with, and the little things that make you feel grounded. So next time you think about what home means to you, remember it's okay if it doesn't match someone else's definition. Your home is your sanctuary, whatever form it takes.