How to Quit Your Job and Travel the World

You see it every day. Another article about how some girl quit her corporate job in a big city and moved to an island, or started traveling across the globe, or became a yoga teacher in some far off land. Every time you read these things you find yourself envying these mystical beings in all their zen, and you wonder how you can possibly get out there and join the ranks of liberated, travel-weary humans. 

But how?! How do these people do it?! Where do they get the money, the time, the courage to just leave everything and go? The answer is right in front of you.

First, make a decision. You've obviously already had conscious thoughts about desiring a change, or you wouldn't be reading this article. Ask yourself, is this something you really want to experience right now in your life? If you're not ready to commit 100%, close out this window and go back to work. You need to be ready to take action if you want to see things happen.

After you've decided, make a plan. Even if it's just in your head, that's the first step. Tell yourself, I'm going to take these steps in order to get where I need to go. When I was first making my plan, I knew I could never continue to live in New York if I wanted to save up money. That was the first step. The city I lived in was sucking me dry and I wasn't getting anywhere living paycheck to paycheck. I made a decision to move back in with my Mom once my lease ended. I asked my job to continue working remotely, and they agreed. Don't be afraid to ask for the things you want! If you assume something won't happen, you've already set yourself up for failure. Allow positive thinking. The world may surprise you.

The next step is to take action. You've made a decision, you have a plan, now it's time to DO. Start saving up, put in your notice, move home, book your tickets. Whatever your plan is about, begin to make some moves. Remember to have patience. It took me 9 months to save up for my trip. Be content day to day with the little gains. Eventually you'll get where you're headed as long as you stay on the path.

If you find yourself filled with anxiety and dread when the time comes to actually go through with your plan, don't be afraid. Perhaps there are a number of factors holding you back from actually taking action. Fear is the number one crusher of hopes and dreams, but it's also useful in telling us what we want to create. If you're afraid of quitting your job because you're already thinking of what will happen when you get back, stop. No one knows what the future will bring. Your employers may be perfectly fine re-hiring you when you return. You may realize on your journey that you want to pursue a different career. Maybe you'll meet someone abroad who will offer you a job. Allow yourself to be free from the stress of the future. You will be able to handle whatever situation comes your way when the time comes. Focus on the present moment. 

Now you've set things in motion. You've done the thing, saved the money, bought the tickets, had all the patience. Don't freak out. There were times on my journey that I was scared. What if something bad happens, right? What if no one speaks my language and everyone is mean and I'm stranded somewhere? Trust me when I say, it will be okay. Believe that people are generally good. Be aware and don't be overly stupid on your travels and you'll be just fine. Don't be afraid to take risks, to meet new people, to go somewhere you weren't planning, or to be alone. The world is not as dangerous as people want you to think.

These steps are all you need to quit your job and travel where ever you want to go. Once you've done it, you'll realize that it wasn't that big of a deal after all. The rest is up to you! Make your plan, set your course, take action, and believe that your dreams can be your reality. Good luck!