DISQUS

Almost Fearless: Getting the Nerve to Go

  • Nomadic Matt · 1 year ago
    I realized what your blog needs. A links page. What's up with no blogrooll? :)

    and what's this about deferring student loans? I can defer my direct loans...hmmm
  • Gillian · 1 year ago
    My story is similar. I always thought I would travel, and have also researched various options over the years only to have the books, magazines, articles languish in a dusty corner because I didn't take it seriously and realize that I can do it. Time has come though and this time I vow to look at each fear in the face, break it down and kick it's ass!!

    I worry about money (but there will surely be enough), career (but, here in my country there is a job glut out there right now), housing (but I can buy another house) and family/friends reaction (but they love me, won't they be happy?).

    Most of all, I worry I won't like it and/or that I won't have the courage to face the whole world. I will though, I know I will...I just have to get out there...and I will. Your story, and others have inspired me. I am already facing those fears one by one - 2009 will see me out there!
  • K. · 1 year ago
    My biggest fear is that I will love traveling so much, I will never want to go back.

    Actually, that's my mother's biggest fear, lol.

    I'm moving to Germany in September to do research. The threat of my research failing is far greater than the fear of moving to a foreign land by myself.

    I agree that you need to let go of your fear of "not doing it right." If you do make a bad choice, learn from it. That's your journey, and it's perfect just the way it is.
  • Anthony · 1 year ago
    Where should I go? That is a great one. I researched every livable and habitable continent (scientist on Antarctica doesn't count) until I did what was logical: go somewhere you understand the language (or in my case, speak!). And if I don't speak the language (ahem Brazil), learn the basics and get over it. My mother and I had a conversation with an old Italian couple in Rome speaking Spanish and Italian and it was brilliant. Don't get cold feet!

    Anthonys last blog post..A Ticket to Ride and Permission to Enter
  • Chad · 1 year ago
    Isn't this the question we ask ourselves about every major endeavor..."Do I have the nerve." I haven't had the nerve for a few things myself. I'm trying to shake that off...the weight of society is a difficult yoke.

    Chads last blog post..Rules of Thumb are Useless and Dangerous to Your Financial Future
  • Christine · 1 year ago
    Matt: Too true. I need to put that together.

    Gillian: I can't wait! And believe me, it will fly by faster than you know.

    K: Germany, how exciting. Although, you're right, you're research will be the main focus...

    Anthony: I can't believe you're leaving so soon. You'll have so much fun!

    Chad: Agreed. There are plenty of people who will tell you wait not to do...
  • Shrishti · 1 year ago
    So, where exactly are you now? In Spain still? Also, how did you figure out what kind of visa you needed because don't you need a different one(as opposed to the tourist visa) to be able to work there?
  • Tanya · 1 year ago
    Wow, this post really struck a chord with me, except that my situation isn't about getting the nerve to go, it's getting the nerve to stay! Thanks for putting some of those questions and answers in writing. It's reassuring to know I'm not the only one thinking those thoughts.
  • Christine · 1 year ago
    Hi Shrishti,

    I will be in Spain on 6/28. I am staying on a 3 month tourist visa. I will be working remotely for a US company if I chose to pick up some freelance contracts. To the company's perspective, there isn't much difference between me working at home in Boston or working at home in Spain. It's all online.

    Tanya,

    Thanks and I'm glad that it was helpful. You know if you want to do it, just accept nothing less than making it work. The only thing than can prevent you is indecisiveness!
  • Lily · 1 year ago
    Good luck Christine, i can't wait to hear how things go once you're in madrid!!

    I'm really curious as to how you managed to find a freelance gig for US company... sounds like the perfect thing. I'm trying to get into freelance writing (possibly fashion related) but dont know where to start... if you get a minute i'd really appreciate your ideas/advice! Thanks, and have a fantastic trip.