What I am finding out now is that the most beautiful things in life are real and raw. The very first draft before you start to over-analyze. An uncontrollable laugh. A life without fear of judgment. That’s the type of life I am looking to attract and if that resonates with you, then join me on this journey.

I’ll start by sharing my very first recorded diary entry expressing an idea I had that was so different from the norm. An idea that would allow me to quit my 9-5 job. Before I open up my diary to you, first I must share a few important details leading up to this pivotal moment.

From an outsider’s perspective, it appeared that my life was nothing less than perfection, but that’s the problem with social media- it only highlights the best parts of existence creating false expectations for your own. We are all human. We all have secret struggles we wouldn’t dare exploit. But life wasn’t designed to revolve around popularity, followers, and keeping up with a self-image of success longed to be portrayed. 

I was running in the rat race, climbing the corporate ladder, working a 60 hour-work-week, and by the grace of God still managing to maintain a social life, drink enough water, exercise, and stay ‘somewhat’ sane. My quest for perfection left me feeling empty and the expenditure of blood, sweat, and tears was wasted for a company that would have me replaced the next day if I dropped dead. Sure, I enjoyed the finer things in life for a moment. I was making an income that was more than most people my age, maybe even more than some of my friends’ parents, but was it worth it? My soul felt like it was being sucked by a vampire. My Gucci bag looked really nice, but no one really cared. The “newness” of all my expensive purchases wore off after a few short weeks and I was always left feeling like I needed more.

I started desperately searching for answers to questions I never even thought to ask before, and in my efforts came across a YouTube channel of two girls who were able to find work online and started traveling the world. They called themselves “digital nomads”. Ever since then, I was hooked. I couldn’t stop thinking about how much I wished I was living that kind of life. My thoughts began to manifest at such a rapid rate that I spent every minute of free time I had doing research. How was I going to survive my first year as a “digital nomad”? I discovered all sorts of information and started following all the latest blogs. I came to the conclusion that Costa Rica would be the perfect first destination based on the cost, local community, and a plethora of tropical adventures that awaited.

I was having a ground-breaking epiphany that rocked my world and my thoughts about life rapidly transformed into new territory.  Once I have my mind set forth to do something, there is no stopping me. I recorded this diary entry on August 22, 2018, and the following Monday I formally submitted my letter of resignation.

---

“ I can’t compete with this ridiculous quest for perfection. Society tells us to work our 9-5 jobs and save as much money as possible, but what if the success you’re craving is much simpler than that? I know what you’re thinking, what’s more simple than working and saving? Well, a lot of things because honestly, I can’t save money for shit. Living here in this world we share, there are so many temptations, such high expectations, so much shit to buy. I don’t even want it, but I convince myself I need it in order to keep up with the Joneses. I want to feel the warmth in the air and salty wind in my hair. I want to run the beaches and feel the gritty sand in-between my toes. I don’t want to stress about hair, makeup, or nails ever again. I want organic soaps that smell of fresh lavender and vanilla. I want a simple life with all real ingredients. I want real friends and my family close. I want to see them often and spend time sharing experiences about life. I want to ride my bicycle to the local market and handpick organic fresh fruits and vegetables. Better yet, I want my own garden that I grow myself. I want to spend time learning to cook amazing dishes for my friends and family. I want to learn yoga and do it every day. I should be living on the beach of Costa Rica where I can watch the sunrise every morning while drinking a good cup of Cuban coffee.” 

8/22/2018

---

It’s been 14 months since I first dreamt of a life I felt was truly worth living. The only move I made was across the state to my mother’s house, and now I am currently sleeping on my friends’ couch. I found myself back where I started, only this time I’m five steps back. From an outsider, it may appear that I hit rock bottom, but I believe I’m exactly where I need to be because I’ve never been more motivated than I am now. I don’t have all the answers to success, but I am confident I will figure it out- there really is no other choice for me. I refuse to go back to the old life I lived. The good news is I don’t have to do it alone, and neither do you!

The more I spoke about my desires the more connected I felt with people because what I found was that there is a community of people with similar dreams waiting to be built. It helps to be around people who echo your spirit, which is why I wanted to form a community of like-minded individuals to share their experiences, ideas, and dreams.  Luckily I found your first two friends, my fellow world travelers, and collaborators- Krystina and Alisa!

I can’t wait to reveal real answers to these five questions:

1. How do I create a life full of meaning and happiness?
2. How do I start a successful company online?
3. How do I become my own boss and travel the world with people who want to explore as badly as I do?
4. How do I find friends who encourage me to leap out of my comfort zone?
5. How do I create a life that gives me the ability to spontaneously take on the globe?

Let’s come together as a community and quit the rat race! You can help by leaving a comment and answering one of the following questions:

My Fellow Dreamers:  If you could start an online business and move anywhere in the world where would you go and what would your business be? 

My Fellow Digital Nomad Successors:  Share an experience you’ve had while becoming a digital nomad. Where would you say is your favorite place to live or travel? What would you do differently? If you have an online company feel free to share it in the comments below! 

Girl Versus World Supports your success and is full of encouragement and ideas when plans don’t go as planned.