You know how some cities have a certain energy? NYC has high energy hustle-and-bustle. Vegas has always-on lights-and-sound. Austin’s famous bumper sticker, “Keep Austin Weird,” summarizes the openness of that college and tech town.
Elmira, NY has peace. I was there last week and had the best nights of sleep I’ve had in a long time. Because it was quiet, yes. But because there was something else - intangible - going on. The energy of the place was just right. Everyone was incredibly friendly…. and chill. In the same way that the Sedona red rocks are said to have a certain energy, Elmira has energy in its trees and hills and rivers and people. It was very calming. Centering even.
I wonder how the cities like Elmira - those with a “tranquility dividend” - will fare in the race for talent? Anyone who works digitally - outfitted with mobile phones, laptops and connected to their work teams through robust intranets - can live anywhere and still contribute to a project, a client, or a team.
So for anyone whose “live first, work second” ethic requires tranquility, may I recommend Elmira?
