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I’ve always been curious about what’s out there—different places, people, and experiences.
But if I’m honest, it wasn’t curiosity alone that led me to plan this journey.
It was losing my mom in 2013. She was my rock, and when she passed, it felt like everything shifted.
It’s a cliché to say life is short, but when you’re hit with that kind of loss, it stops being a saying and starts being a reality.
I’m 36 now. I don’t have kids, any large financial obligations of importance, or anything tying me down. For 10+ years, I worked as a mechanic.
It was honest work, but it left me feeling stuck. In 2020, I quit and switched to remote work in digital marketing. That choice was scary, but it was the first step toward creating a life I could be excited about—a life that lets me explore freely.
Now I’m gearing up to hit the road, starting with the U.S. in my RV before heading overseas. Here’s what’s motivating me to take the leap.
Loss That Changed My Perspective
When my mom passed, I started asking myself questions I hadn’t considered before: If I only had a few years left, how would I spend them?
Would I keep doing what I was doing? The answers were obvious. I’d want to see the world, experience as much as I could, and live a life worth remembering.
Her loss didn’t just motivate me—it gave me a sense of urgency.
It made me realize there’s no guarantee we’ll get “someday.”
That’s why I’m doing this now, not waiting for retirement or the “perfect” time.
Why 36 Feels Like the Perfect Time
People might think 36 is an odd age to shake things up, but I think it’s just right. I’m old enough to appreciate the opportunity but young enough to dive into new adventures without too much baggage.
No kids and no big obligations—it’s freeing.
I know not everyone has the same freedom, but if you’re in a similar place, ask yourself: What’s holding me back? For me, it was fear of change and the unknown.
I had to push past that, but once I did, it felt like the world opened up.
Curiosity: The Fuel for Adventure
I’ve always been a “why not?” kind of person.
Why not drive across the country in an RV?
Why not see if Paris really is as magical as they say?
Why not taste street food in Thailand?
There’s so much to learn and experience out there.
Curiosity is what keeps me moving forward. I don’t have all the answers about what this journey will look like, but I’m excited to figure it out.
And I think that’s the point—stepping into the unknown and trusting that it’ll be worth it.
Taking the Leap
Making this decision wasn’t easy. Fear is real—fear of running out of money, getting lonely, or just screwing it all up.
But staying in my comfort zone felt riskier. I’d rather try and fail than look back and regret not trying at all.
Here’s what’s helped me prepare:
- Planning financially: I’ve set a budget that includes travel costs, emergencies, and income from my remote work.
- Getting comfortable with minimalism: Living in an RV means less stuff. It’s been freeing to let go of what I don’t need.
- Learning as much as I can: I’ve been reading blogs, watching videos, and talking to people who’ve done this before. Their stories make it feel possible.
If you’re thinking about doing something similar, start small. Research your options. Take a weekend trip to test the waters.
You don’t have to figure it all out at once.
Why This Journey Matters
This isn’t just about seeing pretty places or posting cool pictures. It’s about living a life that feels authentic to me.
My mom didn’t get the chance to do everything she dreamed of, and I feel like I’m honoring her by making the most of the time I have left on this earth.
Travel is also a way to grow. It pushes you out of your comfort zone and challenges you to see the world differently.
I’m ready for that challenge.
What’s Your Inspiration?
If you’re reading this (I highly doubt anyone is btw..lol) and feel stuck, I get it. Big changes are scary, but they’re also where the magic happens. Think about what inspires you. Maybe it’s a loss like mine, or maybe it’s the simple desire to try something new.
Whatever it is, let it fuel you.
Start with small steps. Save for a trip. Research a place you’ve always wanted to visit. Talk to someone who’s done what you’re dreaming about. And remember: You don’t have to wait for the “right” time.
The right time is when you decide it is.
For me, that time is now. I can’t wait to hit the road and see where this adventure takes me.
And I hope that by sharing my story, I can inspire you to chase your own.
Next Steps You Can Take:
- Reflect on what inspires you. Write it down.
- Start saving for your dream trip, even if it’s small.
- Research destinations and create a bucket list.
- Follow blogs, podcasts, or social media accounts that align with your travel goals.
- Plan a mini adventure to test the waters.
Life is short, and the world is waiting.
