The Corporate Trap

If you would’ve asked me 4 years ago what my life plan was, I would have probably given you a pretty defined answer. I wanted to land a job that paid well and would relocate me. My top priorities were money and growth opportunities in a stable career.

Why is that? Society tells us that security is the most important and happiness can only sprout from this. It teaches us to associate safety and comfort with money and fulfillment with belongings- all things we’re told a job will provide.

But now? I’ve been without a job for a year and traveling with as few possessions as possible and I am truly the happiest I’ve ever been.

For the past year, every time I tell people that I’ve quit my job to explore the world and myself, they cheer. They congratulate me. Rewind to the months leading up to quitting my job, most of my American peers were confused. How could I leave behind a good paying job with nice benefits? Was I crazy?

Maybe so, but isn’t everyone?

I understand that not everyone has the opportunities that I’ve been blessed with. But I also recognize that a lot do, they’re just reluctant to risk security and safety. Because yah, it is scary to jump into the unknown without a stable plan. But if the other option is a lifelong rat race, rushing through my days stressed out about what to buy next or invest in or build, I will risk it every time.

Maybe the trap isn’t the job itself. Maybe it’s the belief that there is only one path to a successful and happy life.

Society showed me there is one clear path. Traveling has shown me there are endless paths.

And who says I can’t have it all? I can settle down one day and commit to one job. I can start a family and plant roots in one location. But in the meantime, I will enjoy my life how I want.

Because if there is one thing travel has taught me, it’s that there are endless lives I can live.