This isn’t just a whimsical tale spun from daydreams; it’s a journey many have embarked on, myself included, and one that has been both celebrated and cautioned against. The allure of casting off the chains of the daily grind, swapping fluorescent lights for the glow of a sunset on a distant island, is undeniable. Yet, as captivating as it sounds to live life as a nomad, there’s more to this story than meets the eye, and it’s important to understand the full picture.
The Dream: Embracing the Nomadic Lifestyle
“Live, travel, adventure, bless, and don’t be sorry.” This quote by Jack Kerouac perfectly captures the dream of a life spent traveling and exploring. The idea of walking into your boss’s office, announcing your departure from a perfectly good job to embrace the unknown, is an exhilarating thought. I did exactly that, pursuing a life of intentional living and vagabond bliss. The stories of others who have done the same buoyed my spirits, convincing me of the one-sided story of extended travel’s benefits. I’ve even encouraged others to take the leap in a talk to around 400 people.
The Highlights: Freedom and Discovery
My narrative isn’t just about the highlight reel of traveling through 8 countries with my wife, living out of backpacks. It’s about setting the record straight on the harsh realities that accompany such a drastic life change. The freedom, constant variety, new people, and the wonders of the world are intoxicating. Health benefits alone, such as my personal loss of 40 pounds without dieting or working out, are appealing. But let’s dive into the less discussed side—the challenges, perils, and reality checks that come with quitting your job to travel the world, which are often overlooked.
Financial Realities: The Cost of Adventure
Firstly, the financial aspect is a hard pill to swallow. Our year of travel in 2014 wasn’t cheap, costing approximately $60,000. While there were moments of living frugally in places like Thailand and embracing the simplicity of ‘freedom camping’ in Southern Utah, there were also significant expenses. From airline tickets to boarding our dogs, and handling unexpected home repairs, the costs added up quickly. The lesson here is to save more than you think you’ll need and plan for reentry into society post-travel to avoid the stress of financial issues, which can be overwhelming.
Emotional Rollercoaster: The Ups and Downs
Another reality is the emotional rollercoaster. I met with a friend, a corporate executive, who contemplated a break from his high-stress career. Reflecting on my own journey, I shared that it took me 8 months to fully unwind from 14 years of intense work. The initial relaxation soon gave way to doubts and regrets, exacerbated by peer and family skepticism. It wasn’t until nearing the end of our travels that I found peace with my decision, highlighting the importance of traveling with an open mind and allowing life’s next steps to emerge naturally, without forcing them.
Social Challenges: Navigating Connections
The social aspect is also challenging. The stark realization that everyone else’s life goes on, with their schedules and responsibilities, can feel isolating. Making lasting friendships is hard when you’re constantly on the move, underscoring the importance of being comfortable in your own company and being open to new connections, even if they’re fleeting. This can be a significant adjustment for many.
The Job of Traveling: When Paradise Becomes a Task
Perhaps one of the biggest surprises is how travel can morph into a job itself. The logistics of planning, the discomforts of nomadic living, and the eventual yearning for the stability of home life reveal that even paradise can lose its luster over time. Spending more time in fewer places can mitigate this, allowing for deeper connections and experiences.
The Verdict: Was It Worth It?
Was it all worth it, despite these drawbacks? Absolutely. The experiences, the growth, the insights gained from stepping outside our comfort zones and living differently, were invaluable. Extended travel is not all sunshine and rainbows, but the diversity of experiences makes it rewarding. It offered us a fresh perspective on life, the courage to reboot, and ultimately, a satisfactory resettlement back in the USA, albeit in a new place, which was a new adventure in itself.
For those contemplating this path, know that the challenges are real but surmountable, and the rewards can be profound. Extended travel forces you out of your bubble, offering a unique outsider’s perspective on your life and the world. If you’re drawn to the idea, approach it with eyes wide open, prepared for both the highs and lows. And to those who may be considering quitting their job on a whim for this adventure, remember, the grass isn’t always greener. Take the time to weigh the realities against the dream, and if you decide to go for it, may your journey be as enriching as it is enlightening, providing you with memories and lessons that last a lifetime.
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