Moving to Ghana has been nothing short of a life-changing experience for me. It’s the first time I’ve experienced such a major relocation—not just to another city or state, but to an entirely different country with a vastly different culture. The sense of freedom I feel here really puts a spotlight on the tension and stress I endured living in America. Now, if I were a multibillionaire living an isolated life in the U.S., I might have had a different perspective. But even then, I’d probably still say the same, because now I’m living a very simple and uncomplicated life away from the noise.
For those who know me, it might come as a surprise to learn that while I’m quite outgoing, I’m equally reclusive. That reclusive side of me is the dominant one. I can handle being in the spotlight and can easily be the life of the party, but what shocks most people is that I can also disconnect from the outside world for long periods without missing it. My social circle is small and consists of people who are driven and accomplished in their own fields, and a few lifelong friends who’ve known me for over 50 years. These are the people who knew my parents, spent time at my childhood home, and understand the essence of who I am.
As for others who’ve drifted in and out of my life, their departures don’t faze me much. I gauge closeness by whether or not they’ve known the essence of my roots—my parents, my upbringing. It might seem like a strange metric, but it’s one that helps me put things in perspective.
From Accra’s Hustle to Mountain Serenity
For the first three years in Ghana, I lived in Accra, the bustling city. Despite the relatively low crime rates and the overall peaceful environment, there was still a constant hustle and bustle. The economy here is tough, and money is on everyone’s mind. I get it; people are out there trying to survive. But for someone like me, who is retired and financially stable, I stand out in ways that I hadn’t expected. The simple fact that I don’t have to worry about a paycheck makes me seem wealthier than I actually am. Add in the way I speak, walk, and carry myself, and I stick out like a sore thumb. Yet, despite the occasional feeling of being out of place, I find the people here to be approachable and kind—a stark contrast to the uptight tension back in the States.
My first visit to Ghana in 2019 was a wake-up call. It felt like I was newly released from a 50-year prison sentence, trying to acclimate to freedom. Those first steps were hesitant, filled with a lingering tension that reminded me of the pressures back in the U.S. It wasn’t until the last week of my three-week visit that I finally began to feel the deep stillness and peace that Ghana offered. But just as I started to settle in, it was time to return to America, and to be honest, I didn’t want to go back.
Life Beyond the American Bubble
Sure, America has its amenities. Many folks can’t let go of them and tend to look down on other places as subpar. But if you look at the various “Top 10 Places to Live” articles, how often do you see an American city at the top of the list? It’s rare, and there’s a reason for that. Now, I won’t pretend to know the whole world just because I left the U.S. for Ghana. But I’ve had conversations with well-traveled individuals who’ve shared their global perspectives, and what I’ve learned is eye-opening.
I recall speaking with Minister Akbar Muhammad of the Nation of Islam on two occasions: once in Fort Pierce, Florida, and another time in Tampa for a Malcolm X celebration. He spoke of his experiences visiting nearly 200 countries, further solidifying my feeling that America was like a prison—where the repetition of working a job and going through the same old rhythms kept you trapped.
As I near the completion of my home here in Ghana, I’m excited about the freedom to travel, create content, and explore life without the weight of America’s disorienting noise. But I also know that some of you reading this might still be caught up in that madness, tied down by responsibilities, debts, or family duties. It’s important to understand that even if you can’t relocate, there are ways to escape the noise, find peace, and create a sense of freedom where you are.
The New York Hustle and Lessons Learned
Growing up in New York City, I experienced life in one of the noisiest places on Earth. The city was a teacher, offering valuable lessons in human nature. While Orlando, Florida, provided a less intense environment, it wasn’t devoid of crime or hustle. But despite the chaos, I cherish the experiences from New York that shaped me, guided by loving parents who taught me how to navigate life’s complexities. Now, in Ghana, away from the distractions, I can retreat into my own “innerverse”—a sanctuary where I reflect, heal, and live life on my terms. It’s like living my second childhood, only this time, armed with the wisdom earned through a lifetime of lessons.
5 Practices for Escaping the Noise Within a Hectic Environment
- Establish Daily Quiet Time
Even in the noisiest environments, carving out time for silence can be transformative. Whether it’s early in the morning or late at night, set aside at least 30 minutes for uninterrupted quiet. Use this time for meditation, deep breathing, or simply sitting in stillness. It’s about disconnecting from the external chaos and reconnecting with yourself. You’ll find that this practice not only lowers stress but also sharpens your focus and helps you make more deliberate decisions. -
Set Boundaries for Your Energy
Not everyone deserves access to your time and energy. Just because someone wants to chat doesn’t mean you have to engage. It’s okay to let calls go to voicemail or skip social events. The people who genuinely care will understand, and those who don’t, well, you’re better off without them draining your spirit. Protect your mental space like it’s sacred, because it is. -
Limit Social Media Consumption
Social media has become a massive distraction, creating a false sense of connection while feeding our anxieties and insecurities. Limit your time on these platforms, and when you do engage, make sure it’s purposeful. Follow content that enriches your life, and unfollow or mute anything that drains your energy. The goal is to prevent social media from dictating your thoughts and emotions. -
Invest in Experiences, Not Things
Material possessions often come with hidden burdens. Instead of buying the latest gadgets or fashion trends, invest in experiences that enrich your life. Take a road trip, learn a new skill, or simply go for a walk in a park. Experiences bring you joy and memories that last longer than the temporary high from buying something new. They also help you connect with the present moment, providing a much-needed break from the daily grind. -
Embrace Minimalism
Simplifying your life is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress. The fewer things you own, the less you have to worry about. Clear out clutter, both physically and mentally. Let go of old grudges, toxic relationships, and any lingering regrets. When your life is simplified, you’ll find it easier to focus on what truly matters, allowing you to reach your full potential.
Conclusion
Living in a society as chaotic as the U.S. can make it easy to forget who you are and what you want out of life. It’s no wonder so many people feel lost or burnt out. But you don’t need to move to a different country to find peace. By making conscious choices to eliminate distractions, prioritize your time, and simplify your life, you can create your own sanctuary—even in the middle of a hectic environment.
As I look back on my journey, I realize that escaping the noise isn’t just about changing your location—it’s about changing your mindset. For years, I was caught up in the rhythms of American life, where stress and distractions were the norm. But the truth is, we carry the noise within us. It follows us in our thoughts, our habits, and the company we keep. The real challenge is learning to quiet the noise wherever we are, and that starts with making conscious decisions to protect your peace, cultivate your energy, and embrace a life that’s truly yours.
Living in Ghana has taught me that simplicity isn’t a step backward; it’s a step towards clarity. When you strip away the unnecessary distractions, you gain a deeper appreciation for the small moments, the genuine connections, and the things that truly matter. The peace I’ve found isn’t about running away from problems but creating a space where solutions can naturally emerge. It’s about fostering an environment where my mind, body, and spirit can thrive without the constant pull of external demands. I’m not suggesting that everyone pack up and leave their home country, but I am saying that we all need to redefine what “living” means for ourselves.
So, as I continue to explore this new chapter of life, I invite you to take the first step in tuning out the noise in your own life. Start small—find your quiet time, embrace minimalism, or simply set boundaries to protect your energy. It’s about reclaiming your time, your space, and ultimately, your freedom. You don’t have to be surrounded by chaos just because it’s the norm; you can create your own world of calm in the midst of it all. The journey to inner peace is yours to shape, but trust me, it’s a journey well worth taking.
Much Love & Appreciation To All who Took The Time To Visit!
Sincerely,
LanceScurv
[email protected] / 407 590 0755 (Whatsapp)
