The Search for Home as More Than a Place

We often think of “home” as four walls and a roof—somewhere to sleep at night, store our belongings, and find a sense of stability. But for many of us, the search for home runs deeper. It’s not just about a physical space; it’s about finding a feeling—a sense of safety, trust, and belonging that isn’t tied to an address.

For much of my life, I’ve been searching for home—not just in houses, but in relationships, in roles I’ve played, and in the ways I show up for others. Growing up with frequent relocations, navigating early marriage and divorce, and eventually transitioning from a 20-year career to create a business aligned with my values, I’ve had to redefine what home truly means. Through all these changes, I’ve learned that home isn’t just a destination. It’s something we carry within us.

Redefining Home as an Inner Haven

I used to believe that if I just found the right house—the perfect layout, the cozy spaces, the welcoming energy—then I would finally feel at home. But after moving time and time again, I realized that home wasn’t a structure I could step into; it was a sense of belonging I needed to cultivate within myself.

I remember when I moved into my current home in Rhode Island. On paper, it had everything I wanted—spacious rooms, natural light pouring through the skylights, and a peaceful setting. But despite its beauty, there were moments when I still felt restless, like I hadn’t truly arrived. I found myself organizing and rearranging, searching for a way to make the house feel like home.

Then, I noticed a pattern. It wasn’t the space itself that determined whether I felt at home—it was how I felt within myself. When I was overwhelmed, clutter would pile up. When I was in balance, the home reflected that peace back to me. I realized that home wasn’t about getting everything just right externally; it was about finding steadiness inside, no matter what was happening around me.

This shift in perspective changed everything. Instead of looking for home outside of myself, I started creating it within. Breathwork, yoga, and mindfulness became essential tools—not just for stress relief, but for grounding me in my own body, my own life. I began embracing my home as a reflection of my internal world rather than an escape from it.

Bringing Belonging into Every Environment

When you nurture a sense of home within yourself, you begin to feel at ease wherever you go. Instead of searching for stability in external circumstances, you trust that you are capable of creating it. This is something I bring into my real estate practice as well—helping clients recognize that the home they’re seeking isn’t just about square footage or curb appeal. It’s about finding a space that supports the life they want to build.

Whether you’re moving into a new house, transitioning into a different phase of life, or simply feeling unsettled, ask yourself:

• What makes me feel most at peace?
• How can I bring more of that feeling into my daily life?
• What small practices help me feel grounded and at home within myself?

Because when we cultivate that sense of belonging inside, any place can become a haven.

Embracing Home Wherever You Are

Home is not just four walls—it’s a feeling. It’s the way we exhale when we feel safe, the quiet confidence of knowing we belong, and the steadiness that comes from trusting ourselves.

As I continue this journey—balancing my business, my relationships, and the ever-evolving search for ease—I remind myself that home is something I can always return to. Not just in a house, but in my breath, in my body, and in the spaces I create for others.

And maybe that’s the true meaning of home—not a fixed location, but the ability to feel at peace, no matter where life takes us.