Chapter 1: The Call of the Sea

The words of famed sailor Cristoforo Colombo resonate deeply with me: “You can never cross the ocean until you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.” This reflection perfectly encapsulates my life’s current chapter. Driven by a profound love for sailing and a rich appreciation for Aegean culture, I made the pivotal choice to leave the vibrant city of Istanbul at just 25 years old, aiming to create extraordinary blue water sailboats.

The decision to part ways with the familiar hustle of Istanbul was intimidating, yet I recognized that to truly chase my passion, I needed to embrace the uncertainty ahead. With unwavering determination, I embarked on my journey to design the ultimate sailing vessels.

Before diving into the intricacies of this endeavor, I want to share the motivations behind my choice to leave Istanbul “prematurely.” Living in a bustling metropolis like Istanbul often gives the impression of being at the heart of the nation. The city’s vibrant life is filled with both advantages and challenges, and it has become second nature to find oneself amidst the most significant events and activities. Extraordinary happenings are part of daily life and often make headlines.

Owning a substantial piece of Istanbul's dynamic landscape means having access to unparalleled modern amenities, including top-notch infrastructure and job opportunities. The energy of Istanbul can be both thrilling and overwhelming. While some thrive in the city's constant buzz, others may feel like outsiders, struggling to find their place. For many, the pursuit of wealth and professional experience may eventually lead to a yearning for a home that provides a greater sense of belonging. Despite its hurdles, Istanbul remains a city brimming with opportunities for the bold.

My journey in Istanbul began at age 18 when I secured a spot at university. This vibrant city has pushed me to question the conventional paths laid out by society and family, leading me to realize that the relentless chase for metropolitan success is often an empty pursuit.

As I immersed myself in my career, I found a growing dissatisfaction, compounded by the country's economic decline. My detachment from social circles only heightened my disillusionment with life in Istanbul. However, upon reflection, I began to see these challenges as gateways for personal growth. The prospect of starting anew, free from routine and brimming with possibilities, filled me with excitement. Taking the plunge into change is often reserved for those willing to step outside their comfort zones and pursue their dreams.

For me, major life decisions are not driven by heightened emotions but are carefully considered reflections on my experiences and desires. I identify what I don’t want, then navigate my options to initiate change, all while embracing the emotions tied to my journey. I strive to shape my life around outcomes, understanding that the journey is just as important as the destination.

Now, let's explore the compelling factors that influence the decision to leave behind the familiar and start anew. Whether you're considering a move or simply intrigued by the topic, this article will dissect the elements that shape the choice to embark on a new adventure.

Istanbul is a vibrant metropolis with a wealth of opportunities — from its diverse geography to its job market and rich cultural heritage. Yet, many of these opportunities are only accessible during limited hours, particularly on weekends. I believe cities should be designed to maximize life enjoyment, as suggested by thinkers like Sartre and Camus; life is about personal development and breaking away from convention.

However, one major issue is the overwhelming crowds at social venues during weekends, as many flock to popular spots. To enjoy life, you often have to share the experience with throngs of others. This overcrowding leads to pollution and misinformation, particularly on days when public transport is free. Navigating the city can become tedious, prompting many to avoid crowded areas. Each neighborhood in Istanbul boasts its own unique culture, yet the influx of visitors can disrupt these local traditions.

Another pressing concern is the rising insecurity linked to irregular migration. Turkey's strategic location has made it a migration hub, leading to overpopulation and safety issues in already strained urban areas. Despite these challenges, Istanbul remains a city rich in potential and charm, waiting to be explored.

While perceptions of these issues may vary, many would agree that Istanbul has become increasingly daunting. For those who can clarify what they don’t want in life, the notion of leaving the city becomes appealing. In our modern world, opportunities like remote work have changed the narrative, allowing individuals to reconsider their ties to urban chaos.

Ultimately, life presents itself uniquely to each individual. To me, it mirrors a journey akin to those depicted by Jack Kerouac, filled with guides and obstacles. Our choices shape our experiences along the way.

Life is about resilience; it’s a pathway filled with challenges, but overcoming them leads to growth. Each hill we climb makes us stronger and prevents stagnation. While the struggle may differ for everyone, avoiding challenges often leads to a monotonous existence.

In conclusion, my reasons for leaving Istanbul — shaped by my acceptance of life, my approach to living, and my mindset — align perfectly with the famous words of Steve Jobs during his 2005 Stanford commencement speech. This speech has inspired me greatly, and I’d like to conclude with a quote that encapsulates my journey:

“You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something — your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. Because believing that the dots will connect down the road will give you the confidence to follow your heart even when