Everyday Women: Andrea Bunod on Moving – and Moving On

Andrea Bunod is part of Everyday Women, a series that highlights the experiences of plus-size women navigating life, change, and self-discovery.

At 24, this Parisienne shares her personal journey of moving to the French capital and embracing the challenges that come with starting fresh. From practical steps to emotional growth, her story offers insights into making bold life changes with confidence.

Taking the Leap: A Fresh Start in Paris

I’m Andrea, a 24-year-old nurse who moved to Paris a little over a year ago. A food lover, art enthusiast, and city explorer at heart, I was eager to experience everything the capital had to offer. As a plus-size woman, I’ve learned that embracing new opportunities means trusting yourself, even when stepping into the unknown.

Leaving my quiet southern French town for a fast-paced metropolis was daunting. But change is about growth, and I knew that moving forward required courage. Today, I look back and see it as one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Planning for a New Chapter

Once I chose Paris as my new home, organization became key. I relied on detailed to-do lists to stay on track, using the Notion app to manage everything from bureaucratic procedures to must-visit locations. Planning my budget was essential, as life in Paris is far more expensive than in my previous city. Keeping finances in check allowed me to enjoy the transition without unnecessary stress.

Embracing Career Growth and Challenges

Finding a job was the next step. In my previous role, I worked in a psychiatric unit for incarcerated patients, a field I was passionate about. But I saw my move as a chance to push my professional boundaries. Now, I work in a psychiatric unit specializing in the care of women with severe mental health conditions—a demanding yet deeply rewarding experience that has allowed me to flourish.

Adjusting to a new work environment tested my resilience, but I learned that taking risks often leads to unexpected strengths. Paris, with its endless opportunities, proved that stepping out of my comfort zone was worth it.

Creating New Routines and Breaking Old Habits

Moving to a new city also meant reshaping my daily life. While some find comfort in established routines, I needed a fresh perspective. I reintroduced hobbies like drawing, a passion that had once been my creative escape during nursing school. Rediscovering activities I loved gave me a sense of stability in my new environment.

Building friendships was equally important. I made it a priority to spend quality time with new people, explore Paris, and even take up fitness to care for my body and mind. Self-care became a ritual, whether it was getting my hair done or enjoying a cozy evening with a good movie and a takeaway meal. These small, intentional moments helped me settle into my new reality with joy.

Building Confidence and Embracing Change

Facing insecurities head-on has been a powerful part of this journey. Relocating meant doing things I never thought I was capable of, and I am grateful for the growth it brought. My self-confidence has never been stronger.

One of the most surprising aspects of my move was meeting someone who challenged my perspective on relationships. This connection helped me confront fears and embrace happiness in a way I hadn’t before. Learning to trust new experiences has been both liberating and empowering.

Final Thoughts: Moving Forward with Purpose

Moving to a new city is about more than just changing locations; it’s about evolving. Whether it’s adjusting to a new job, finding community, or stepping outside your comfort zone, embracing change opens doors to endless possibilities.

For anyone considering a fresh start, preparation is key. Stay open-minded, embrace challenges, and remember: prioritizing yourself is the first step toward a fulfilling journey.