10 things i've learned while living in los angeles

I moved to L.A. in the summer of 2015 with a dollar and a dream. Although the circumstances that got me here weren’t ideal, I am thankful for all that I have experienced these past ten years. It has truly made me the man that I am today. With that being said, here’s my list (in no particular order) of what I’ve learned while living in Los Angeles.

1. How you do one thing is how you do everything - Moving to L.A. provided an opportunity to reinvent myself. It was a clean slate to create good or bad habits, ultimately the choices I’ve made whether big or small have dictated the longevity I’ve had over the years. It hasn’t been easy but it’s definitely been worth it.

2. Proximity over merit - Professionally speaking, this is not absolute but it happens more often than not. Who you know, who knows you and how y'all know each other is way more important than if you’re actually good at your job. I don’t make the rules, I’m just an observer of the game. Succinctly speaking, relationships are and always will be everything. 

3. Police chases make the news weekly - Sometimes it seems daily, either way the media loves police chases, it’s practically a sub-genre of reality TV. Helicopters in the sky, breaking news, whether it’s a main highway or local streets you’ll inevitably see police in a high-speed pursuit. 

4. I will not live here forever, but I could - Living in L.A. was not on my life bingo card but here we are. I figured I would always live between South Jersey/Philly and visit as necessary for work/leisure. Family will be the only reason that I ultimately move back, but as the saying goes, “If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans”. Los Angeles is top-tier for a lot of reasons and I’ll stand 10 toes down on that (See what I did here).

5. Kendrick was right - Yes they not like us, but I’m referring to the line in Dodger Blue, “Don't say you hate L.A. when you don't travel past the 10”. The 10 is the Santa Monica Freeway, Black culture resides and thrives below the 10. That is where you’ll see more of us than anywhere else out here. If you only move around The Valley, WEHO or other suburban areas you’re doing yourself a disservice. Tap in with the real L.A. it’s worth your while.

6. As great as the weather is, the traffic is equally as bad - Generally speaking the weather is undefeated. There’s no greater feeling than flying back to L.A. knowing 9 times out of 10 it’s going to be warm and sunny. The traffic on the other hand is trash. There’s no rhyme or reason, it doesn't matter the time or the area, it’s as if no one has a job. 20 miles away is an hour drive, if you can get across town in 30-45 minutes consider that a small miracle. 

7. The food is phenomenal - I’ve seen commentary online in which people have visited the city and talked down on the food, I can’t relate. From the food trucks, to the hole in the wall at the strip mall, to the posh spots with scenic views, they are all fire. 

8. I may not be exactly where I want to be but at least I’m here - Perspective is paramount. Like others who came out here with entertainment aspirations, we’ve all seen how the industry has changed over time. Many come, most leave, few make it here and even fewer make this place a home. The only way I won’t succeed is if I give up and giving up is not an option. I’ve made it this far, there’s no turning back now.

9. Love will find you when you least expect it - Dating in today’s society is a daunting task, dating in L.A. is even worse. Thank God I found my person. I wasn’t seeking it out but I was aware when she crossed my path. A private life is a blessing, protect your peace and protect your happiness at all costs.

10. Moving to L.A. was the best decision I’ve ever made in my life - I recently spoke to my mom about this specifically. Coming out here was and has been a full testament of my faith. I had no idea how things were going to play out but I’m convinced that this is where I’m supposed to be. I moved out here with two suitcases and a couple hundred bucks in my pocket and I’ve had so many incredible life experiences since being here. May gratitude, hope and resilience lead the way, Godspeed.