Reasons. I can think of a million of them that tell me why I SHOULDN’T put everything on hold and walk across America for nine months.
The one reason that beats that million: Knowing that I’ll discover a million + 1 more reasons why I SHOULD go along the way.
Don’t be shortsighted in your reasoning when it comes to pursuing (and not pursuing) big goals and dreams.
Reasons (AKA excuses) to not do something risky are easy to come up with. They usually heavily outnumber the reasons to do it. Many folks like to use a pros vs. cons list in this situation.
But that’s the beauty of a journey. There is no other way to discover the pros than to get out there and do it. The cons are staring you in the face. The pros need to be discovered.
It’s risky and difficult. But if it was easy, everyone would do it.
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{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
I always like to say that, for me, the greatest reward of traveling has been the opportunities that have arisen along the way, the opportunities that I would never have even known existed had I not taken that first step.
So I completely agree with you, there’s not a “Con” out there that stands up to that one fact!
So you are doing it then?
@ earl – Thanks! That’s what I find really draws me to wanting to travel. Life is so predictable at home and quite honestly it gets me very, very bored. Since I haven’t had the chance to really do any traveling yet in my life I’m really chomping at the bit to get this thing started.
@ jonny – Yes sir! 189 days until I start (not that I’m keeping track or anything) :-)
Nate,
Now is exactly the right time in your life to do something like this! Go for it!! How are you preparing for it, by the way?
Scott
@ scott – The timing is very good. Obviously not perfect, but I’ve never been so sure that something is the right thing to do. As for preparation: Physically, I’m going to start walking on a treadmill with a 40 pound backpack on in December. Logistically, there really isn’t much planning that goes into a trip like this. I kind of just start walking and my biggest objective for the day is to find a place to sleep once the time comes. Pretty awesome! Thanks for showing interest, hope all is well.
Well, I think that’s such a cool thing to do. Keep us posted on your training and other preparation.
I have a suggestion. Start a journal and turn your journey into a book. This could definitely be a journey of self-discovery. Your adventure and the lessons you learn might be very valuable to others and the book can intersperse “how-to” information for others who might want to do what you did. This is a seriously cool idea for a book. And you are in the best position to write it. Start your journal today! Even if you don’t publish it, you’ll be glad you kept the journal anyway.
All the best for everything!
I love the last line, “If it was easy, everyone would do it.” There are so many instances in life when this mantra hold true. Do extraordinary things. Live an impassioned life. The rest will fall into place. Best of luck to you, Nate!