I started working in downtown Chicago June of 2012 because I couldn't pass up the job opportunity. I used to work in the suburbs and swore I would never work in the city because the commute would suck and the city is so crowded....
Five and half years later... I'm still working in the city. This is how I feel I have changed and how I feel it's the cities fault:
Crowds
I know a lot of people hate crowds that don't work in a crowded city, but I never had a huge issue with them before. I'd go to that packed bar or that crowded concert and have no qualms with it. I thrived on the people, the experience etc! Now.... I don't step foot in a bar if I see a line out the door. Those concerts are not fun anymore because people are in my bubble....
Smiles
Ever walk by a stranger and just smile because they're walking by you and why not? Well if not, that person smiling at you used to be me. I used to think everyone was smile worthy. Now.... don't make eye contact... there are a lot of people out there who will actually just try having a creepy conversation with you.. like creepy.. don't make eye contact.
Eye Contact
I used to like people watching. There's a lot of interesting people out there. Now.... don't look up keep walking. Ignore everyone until you get to your destination.
Touristy Stuff
Chicago is known for so many touristy things. Architectural tours, Navy Pier, Taste of Chicago, fireworks, other boat tours etc.. Now... I'm not in the city, I don't want to go... too many people and too expensive. All those things are so expensive. Everything is the city is super over priced...
Obviously some of these are pretty humorous and I wish I was making it all up.... but no. Its all true.
