What if our “happy place” is closer than we think?

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about the importance of place - the feeling of being content exactly where you are, here and now.

We often dream of being somewhere else, of going further, seeing more, exploring endlessly - as if we have a kind of FOMO for places, like the grass is always greener somewhere else. But maybe our 'happy place' is closer than we imagine.

Sometimes, it just takes a shift in perspective to appreciate the details around us: the light, the way things are set up, the smells, the sounds. Whether at home, in the office, or visiting somewhere new, there are little spots that can become mini-refuges.

We all have this ability to create our own 'happy places,' no matter where we are. Because, really, the grass is greenest where you water it. So this November, take time to recharge in the places that feel good to you.

5 QUESTIONS TO LOUISE☀️

For a while now, I’ve been following Louise’s newsletter, where she shares great content. Louise always kicks things off by proudly saying, “I’m Parisian.” This introduction caught my attention, so I asked her a few questions about her connection to Paris and what makes the city special for her.

You always start your newsletter by affirming that you’re Parisian. For you, what makes Paris your “happy place”?

I've spent most of my life in Paris, and I’ve often felt a kind of dissatisfaction (for reasons I’ve shared here).But today, I feel good here. Like many Parisians, I’m used to constantly being distracted by new theater performances, exhibitions, new encounters... It’s a kind of energy that’s hard to find elsewhere in France! Beyond the city, I love its location in France and Europe, which is perfect for someone who loves train-hopping. And, most importantly, I have a lot of my family and friends here, which is huge for me.

I’ve often had to reinvent my relationship with Paris, though, because I had changed or just felt bored. For instance, I changed neighborhoods. I’d always been obsessed with living in the center, but recently I moved near the Ourcq Canal, close to La Villette, in an area that feels more open and peaceful, with quick access to green spaces. I feel much more at home here, and right now, I’m loving Paris!

And how do you manage to feel at home even when you’re just passing through somewhere? Do you have any routines or habits to make yourself feel settled?

It’s the little details that help me make a place my own. In a house, it’s about taking the time to settle in: hanging my clothes in a closet, putting my toothbrush over the sink, placing a book on the nightstand, cooking, and spending a little alone time to feel anchored. I also love going for a walk or a run around my home base, exploring nearby shops, chatting with shopkeepers, or having coffee somewhere. I love discovering new places, but I need to create a small routine, a few familiar reference points and habits – a sense of familiarity, really – to feel good!

People often say the grass is greener on the other side. Do you ever feel that urge to leave? And if so, how do you fully appreciate where you are?

Absolutely, there are phases, and I often feel the need to get away for a weekend in the countryside, the mountains, or by the sea!

In recent years, a good number of my friends have left Paris, a trend that’s picked up since college. Whether it’s for work, to be closer to nature, escape high rents, raise kids in a less urban environment, or simply for a change, I see more and more friends and acquaintances leaving. And, naturally, it makes you question things! I don’t rule out moving one day, but if it happens, it’ll be in another phase of life.

To fully appreciate where I am now, I remind myself that I might not stay here forever! That thought encourages me to make the most of the city’s best features. So, I try to stay active, plan outings (exhibitions, theaters, events, conferences…), and meet interesting people. I also try to get involved in the local community – for instance, I’m signed up with the local CSA, and I love going there. Not only do I adore the pretty setting and the earthy vegetable boxes that make me happy, but it also gives me a great sense of connection. I may not talk to all my neighbors who pick up their vegetables on Tuesday nights too, but knowing we share the same neighborhood creates a little feeling of camaraderie – it’s a nice little joy!

You often share recommendations on Paris. In your view, what makes a place a “happy place”? Is it the place itself or the way you approach it?

It’s a bit of both, I think. A place can meet our needs better than others (in terms of pace, connections, sunlight, aesthetics, proximity to nature, events, discoveries, social mix…). Rent prices and the cost of living play a big role too, of course. That said, I believe we also have some freedom and responsibility in how we approach a place! A location can be experienced in so many different ways, especially in big cities, and it’s up to us to engage with it in a way that makes us happy.

What’s inspiring you right now?

Oh wow! A bit of everything, honestly, and it’s not necessarily tied to Paris. Newsletters, social media, podcasts, books, series, movies, conferences, conversations with my friends, my sisters, my parents.

BITS AND BOBS TO GET INSPIRED THIS MONTH 🌈

• My go-to music for feeling good at home: Hermanos Gutiérrez.

  
  

• T’as de beaux lieux: a podcast that explores unique, community spaces through the eyes of Déborah and Anaïs.

  
  

• Three female artists to brighten up your space: Ana Clerici , Romy and

Leona Rose.

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OLI-REFLECTION 💭

Grab a notebook and settle into your "happy place" - maybe a cozy corner at home or your favorite café.

List out your happy places: What makes them special? Do they have anything in common (nature, calm, favorite people)? Has your idea of a "happy place" changed over time? When you go on holidays, what kind of places do you naturally gravitate toward?

Happy November💌