“You mention on your blog that you sold everything and ‘just left’, I don’t understand”
I paraphrased a recent conversation with one of Traveling 9 to 5’s readers. We write about the concept of “Just going” a lot, but for some reason it doesn’t seem to be resonating – so I thought I would share and hopefully simplify the meaning!
Yes, Just Go! It is that simple. Stop thinking about all the reasons you shouldn’t go, and making up excuses. Buy a plane ticket and just go. You will never regret spending your time, energy and money on travel – it is the one thing that will reward you more than you can ever imagine. Just Go.
“What about your job?”
Your job will be there. If you are good at what you do, they will want you back. After a year of experiencing the world first hand, taking risks and new adventures you might have a new idea of what you want to do for your job. You will be a bigger asset to your company after you return from your travels with more creativity, better negotiation skills and ability to adapt to changing environments. Just Go.
“What about your family?”
Your family loves you and will support you. If they don’t support you they will hopefully come around when they see how happy you are and understand that you are safe. If they never understand, that’s ok too – this is your life and you need to create a life that you are proud of. Just Go.
“What about finances?”
If you’re in debt, put every extra dollar you bring in to the sole purpose of becoming debt free. This will take a huge weight off your shoulders and allow you to be flexible with your plans. I wouldn’t recommend it, but some people are able to live this lifestyle while still paying off your debt, so that’s an option as well. Save. Save ruthlessly. Cut out all the extra fat, daily Starbucks lattes, buying rounds at the bar for your friends and lavish splurges. Determine a daily budget, based on where you are traveling and set your sight on the goal. You will be surprised how quickly you can save a large amount of money if you are driven by a purpose. Just Go.
“What about your stuff?”
Get rid of what you don’t need and keep what you do. You can always buy new stuff. Selling (almost) everything you own is a crazy therapeutic experience that I suggest everyone goes through. You will realize how little you need to be happy and how easy it is to accumulate stuff that you never use. Post everything on craigslist and watch it walk out the door! Just Go.
But… This just isn’t a good time…
Set a date. Buy a ticket. There is never a good time. You will never have enough money, or be at an ideal place in your relationships or at an ideal time in your career. Just Go.
“But…”
Stop creating more barriers and saying how lucky other people are to follow their passions. Make plans, and start making them happen!
”So many people live within unhappy circumstances and yet will not take the initiative to change their situation because they are conditioned to a life of security, conformity, and conservatism, all of which may appear to give one peace of mind, but in reality nothing is more dangerous to the adventurous spirit within a man than a secure future. The very basic core of a man’s living spirit is his passion for adventure. The joy of life comes from our encounters with new experiences, and hence there is no greater joy than to have an endlessly changing horizon, for each day to have a new and different sun.”
– Christopher McCandless
Maybe travel isn’t for you, so I’m not saying you have to Just Go. But I’m sure there’s something that you’ve always wanted to do, and fear, uncertainty and doubt are holding you back. If that’s the case, then, Just Do That Thing You’ve Always Wanted.
What’s your passion that you should ‘Just Go’ for?
I know what you mean. I lived in Quebec City for over a year. Before I left, I was like AM I freakin’ nuts? What am I doing?
I would have kicked myself if I didn’t take that opportunity. And you’re 100% correct on the job thing. And the money thing. I think I am going to stop the lunches, lattes and go to Iceland. Travel is expensive, but just take a look at monthly expenses and it’s easy to cut those down.
Yes! Lattes vs. Iceland – I’ll take the travel experience 🙂 It definitely takes getting control of your savings, but once that is done – it’s impressive how quickly it comes!
Awesome post! I feel inspired. I have this frame of mind a lot, but I let life get in the way (of Life?). Yeah. So, this is exactly what I needed to read today.
It is so easy to get caught up in Life – I struggle the same which is why I am always asking myself – What is my priority, and that is where I spend my money and time!
Thank you for writing this post and for sharing!
The great thing about breaking down the barriers is the freedom that comes with it. I first said “Just go” back in December 2009 and have been travelling on and off ever since.
Wonderfully written, thank you again.
It is such a great feeling of freedom to say Just Go – and can’t be explained unless experienced! Always love hearing from others who also Just Go! 🙂
Thank you for writing this post!! I completely agree with every point, but as I’m currently planning a big round the world trip there are times when I can’t help but think these thoughts. What about my career? Shouldn’t I be saving for a house? Is this really the best time? I need to remember that all these worries are so meaningless and I should, and will, just go! Thanks for reminding me of this.
There is never a good time and careers and homes will be there when you get back – promise! 🙂 When do you leave for your trip?
Love the quote…I am working on getting us to “just go”. Hopefully by the end of the year it will happen!!
Where is your first destination!?
Your “Just Go” message is a little different for us, considering we have a 6-year-old and zero interest in home schooling him so we can all travel. But it is an important reminder on our plan to move to the UK. My wife can apply for British citizenship because her mom is a British citizen. We keep putting off the application (mainly because of the outrageous fee associated). But it’s good to read reminders to do it.
Great point! My Just Go at that stage of my life allowed me to pick up and literally go – but depending where you are Just Go and Just Do can mean drastically different things.. but still that same good kick in the butt to get it done!
Caroline this is so perfect! I might have to borrow for it next someone gives me an ”excuse” for why THEY can’t do it but other people can.
It all comes down to the fact that there is never a perfect time, you can always come up with excuses…but if you want something that bad, all you need is a quick read through this great post and the determination to make it happen!
love it! thanks for sharing
We’ve heard so many excuses about why it’s their dream, but they can’t do it .. like we did. It’s a lie, they are scared to admit that they can actually, easily, put their life on pause and Go!
This is awesome. Perfect answers to common questions and excuses. Having travelled as part of a couple on and off for three years, this is what I try to explain to people all the time! 🙂
Brilliant point! My husband and I faced all of these excuses and moments of self doubt, before we decided to just go. We’re now travelling the world indefinitely and couldn’t be happier!!
Sadly most people I speak to don’t understand that they could just go too *and do whatever makes them happy*
Thanks for a great post!