Day 280: Cuenca, Ecuador
You may notice that I’ve been unusually silent for the past five days.
Despite my tendency to keep a regular publishing schedule I wrote the 2010 Review and then couldn’t put pen to paper, not even to write about Ecuadorian food.
Writers block…creators block…whatever you want to call it.
I’ve been afraid to write.
Seems silly but there’s been a seed of an idea growing in my head and then it reached my heart. Somehow by not sharing it with you I feel like I’m lying to you – the people who know me best.
I can’t write a post if I’m not completely honest so I wrote nothing. But I can’t keep delaying telling you the truth.
This is my confession.
I’m trying to find a way to travel indefinitely. I want to be location independent. After ten months of writing and traveling I’ve decided I can’t go back to my old job. I can’t go back to my old life.
It’s not the right life for me.
There have been clues along the way that I had ignored: my deep attachment to the Latin culture, my need to cut the tie that made me want to come back, my anxiety that I would have to leave Latin American and this would all end.
I’m a different person now.
I’ve been scared to share it for fear of judgement. For fear of people telling me there’s no way I can make a living on the road. Fear that no one will want to hear what I have to write. Fear that I will fail.
But last night I had an amazing coaching session with Catherine Caine and I realized I have something to share with the world. If I don’t at least attempt to pursue this it will be my biggest regret.
So now I’ve publicly thrown my hat into the ring and everyone knows. I’m relieved and petrified that I’ve shone a spotlight on myself and hope I don’t fall on my face.
I don’t know how I’ll fund this lifestyle. I hope it’s a combination of this website, outside writing and some other work.
It’s all a dark unknown.
Sounds like a great plan to me. I’m trying to work out how to do the same thing, with my handsome man and beautiful baby in tow.
You’re a determined kick-arse chickie-babe. If that’s what you want, that’s what you’ll get. I know it.
Oh, and as for the baby thing… that’s possible to, if you decide that’s the way to go.
Go for it Ayngelina! You have nothing to lose and everything to gain (even if that is a huge cliche.) I admire your bravery and envy all that you have ahead of you. Best of luck!
You can do it. I’ve been writing full-time for 17 years now, not always making the money I want to make, but enough to live comfortably. I’m a big believer in the old adage that there is no Plan B, and that if you do what you love the Universe will find a way to make it work. Align yourself with people and organizations you believe in and who believe you, work hard, and stay patient and perseverant. You can do it.
Good for you Ayngelina!!Do what is in your heart!!!
It’s about time!
No ones judging you! You’re choosing to do what makes you happy and most people don’t have the guts to do that… if someone judges you for this choice, just kick them in the shin.
This is a really big secret! I too can hardly imagine going back to my old life. I know precisely what you mean. I am sure you can do this. You will find a way 🙂
So you haven’t got writers (bloggers) block after all…
A brave decision, but I’m sure you’ll achieve you dream – good luck!
Oh, and that is a lovely photo 😉
That’s a very big secret! I am 100% behind you. I know you’ll find a way to achieve your dream 🙂
I’m so happy for you! I’m sure you’ll figure it out with your determination 🙂
You know it makes sense! Good luck!
And about time too.
😉
It’s hard to pursue things people don’t understand, but those are the only good things. What you’ve done takes a lot of guts. I acknowledge that and applaud you. I know you won’t regret going for it. Best of luck to you, Ayngelina!
Follow your dreams lady!
Just bloody go for it, Ayngelina! You’ll regret it more if you don’t try! Good luck!
I say go for it and follow your dream! Good luck!
Very brave of you! I’m mostly happy for you and just a little bit jealous that you are now bouncing around South America indefinitely. I am looking forward to seeing all the great things you’ll do!
And when you’ve figured out how to do it, please let me know too 🙂 Good luck!
This sounds a lot like the very confession I have been longing to make. I know that once I start rolling I will be completely spoiled to ever come back to a cube, and the idea of resuming the same old life would shatter me.
While other travelers might be terribly homesick at this point, the way I see it it is only natural that after experiencing all these colors, flavors and life experiences there is no happy way to return to a gray world. This is nothing to be ashamed of.
So, go for it! Details like the income and daily life will be sorted out when the time comes. Keep going for as long as you feel it is right.
I think I speak for most of your readers when I say that you have been giving us a great gift by taking us along with you on this ride, and we want to keep going with you. We understand how you feel, because we have been living it through your words and photos.
Anything you want to do so much that you can’t stop thinking about it is absolutely worth a try – and anyone who tells you you can’t do it should be ashamed of themselves. Good luck, Ayngelina! (And I love that photo!)
I hear ya loud and clear. I realized a while back that I can’t go back to my old job / life.
Now my priority is to maintain my current lifestyle, which is based on location independence.
Best of luck with the new challenge! We’re all in this together…
Love it! Good luck, and I can’t wait to see how it all goes!
I’m psyched for you Ayngelina!!! I applaud you for putting it all out there honestly and I truly hope you do find all the opportunities you are looking for.
Wow, that’s a way better New Years Resolution than mine (eat better and exercise more). 🙂
I’m sure you’ll find a way to make it happen!
Nothing to be ashamed of here.
Good you are being open and sincere about it! The best thing you can do is to try it, and if you fail (hopefully that won’t happen), don’t be ashamed, be proud you tried it the best way you could.
Keep on going with what your heart is telling you… live the life you truly want for yourself!
You’ve got courage and determination. Good luck – I’m sure you’re doing the right thing and you’ll find your way or rather follow your way. And don’t worry about writer’s block, it’s always temporary. I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you 🙂
Did you notice how many comments you got and each and every one applauding your decision? How can you possibly fail? The future lies ahead, not behind. Bravo.
I imagine you feel how I did when telling our family/friends of our plans to quit our jobs and travel for a year…scared of what those you love and respect will say. I have found that people are very supportive and even want to help! I’ts important to follow your dreams…there is no falling on your face..the safety net follows you closely! Cheers, and congratulations!
Wow, kudos and high fives Ayngelina! Excited to see what comes of this. I, as you know, am on the road full time and don’t know when and even if I’ll go back. There’s something from existing and living this way that I never felt, even with the best job I ever had. If you have a way to do it and still live, then I say go for it. This is obviously is your passion and what you love. Meanwhile, I’ll be cheering from the sideline and here to help in any way I can!
That’s awesome! An important step for me to make things happen is telling people about it. And you might be judged (although not from travel bloggers!), and you might even fail (I did at my dream), but it’s ok. This path will lead to others, and it’s so much better than going backward.
You can do it! I hear you too. Every day is somewhat terrifying thinking that I have to make this happen because come hell or high water I am not going back to the last really well paying job I had. It’s pretty electrifying too – Being on the edge of something brand new and a HUGE change is pretty exciting. Good luck and let me know how I can help!!
This is the best post ever! I’m so glad that you have finally made this decision (although I’d be lying if I said I didn’t see it coming!) I hope that the support you have in the community is clear to you!
You have already taken the “big” step, you’re on the road and all the ties you mentioned are cut! The rest should (hopefully) be the easy part!
Congratulations!
Congrats on putting it out there and making the choice. The rest will come, you’ll find the way to make it stick 🙂 Yay for joining the location independent people! 🙂
Do it! I would LOVE to do that. I think it sounds like an excellent plan. I’m happy for ya.
Yeah! Congrats! It would so difficult to go back after all the amazing experiences you’ve had and your passion for Latin America shines through in every post! You’re a talented writer so I’m sure you’ll find some way to make it work! I’m looking forward to seeing what you do next!
Wow, way to go and confessing it. I always feel like if I don’t put it out there for people to know then it isn’t real & I can always back out of it. Congrats for putting out there now you just have to go for it. You can do it, if you set your mind to it & I am sure you will.
You can’t go wrong if you’re following your heart. That sounds really cheesy but I honestly believe that it’s true.
Go. You will be fine. It will never be as scary in reality as it is in your head.
It is possible! Just keep thinking about, planning for it, and saying it to yourself and you’ll make it work.
I think it’s definitely possible. If you want my advice, think hard about what you are really good at, and if you can come up with something that others are willing to pay for, then go for it! I think you are smart to not rely completely on blogging. It’s about creating a lifestyle business, doing something you love and helping others. I wish you the best of luck!
Bret nabbed my paraphrase of The Alchemist quote I love so much — follow your dream and the universe will find a way to help you achieve it. Amazingly, it has worked for me so I’m a true believer, and I know by declaring your interests publicly, you’ve taken the first step down an exciting new path!
“Anything you want to do so much that you can’t stop thinking about it is absolutely worth a try – and anyone who tells you you can’t do it should be ashamed of themselves.”
And this Jessalyn is a wise commentator!
good for you! congratulations on your decision and having the guts to share it here! it is possible. that’s not to say i don’t think it’s tough but it’s definitely possible and i think if it’s something you want bad enough, which it seems like you do, you’ll make all the efforts to make it your reality.
i have a similar type of ‘confession’ i’ve been meaning to share on my own blog…not to be location independent but about a new career direction…but i don’t have the guts to share yet for all the same reasons you didn’t share this earlier. maybe i should talk to your life coach!
i look forward to following your blog to see where you go from here.
I am not surprised! It happened to us on our last trip too, although we didn’t realise it until we went back to the UK and I returned to my old job. Big mistake! A year later we left permanently.
You’ll regret it if you don’t pursue your dream. There are so many other people making a location independent income that there’s no reason you can’t too. Good luck!
Congrats for doing this first step! I believe that everyone should do what they feel like doing. For example, I don’t have a job now and everyone’s getting shocked when I say “I’m unemployed”. But to be honest ..I love it and if travelling makes you happy…than just don’t listen to what others are saying:)
Good luck! I’m sure you will be very successful!
Just got chills!
Whew, wasn’t it such a relief to say that out loud, erm write it online? Good luck Ayngelina and here’s hoping you find the key to living your dream 😉
Ayngelina–you were one of the first travel bloggers I started following. I was drawn to your infectious enthusiasm, passion, and general bad-arseness. No way you were destined to live an ordinary life. It’s time to step into your rightful place in this world. If anyone can make this work, you can.
I’m sure it feels great to get it out there in the open! Plenty of support from your followers too – it can’t be a bad decision to aim for a life that makes you happy.
Thanks for sharing, like many of the others above-Good luck and I’m sure you can do it. I wouldn’t read your blog if it wasn’t worth reading 🙂
I have no worries about you, Ayngelina. You’ll conquer the world (in a good way, of course)!
LA
Wow. It must be something about the New Year — but I was having the exact same epiphany this week. I don’t want to stop traveling. I don’t want to stop writing. Now I just have to figure out how I can do that without becoming destitute. If you figure out how you’re going to do it, let me know!
Thank you everyone for your kindness and words of support. This has been the scariest most wonderful day.
I had no intentions of writing this post and as most of you know I started out thinking I had writers block. And as you all generously offered up suggestions on the Facebook page I realized I couldn’t write about any of them.
I had to be honest.
To answer @Jeremy
Travel of one of the ways I’ve been able to step out of my comfort zone to discover what I truly want in life.
I don’t think everyone should do it. But I do think there are a lot of people who could be just a little bit happier. I hope that my journey using travel inspires others to work on what they really want in life.
So in the next year you’ll see me pursuing my passions and taking a more active role in inspiring you to pursue yours.
I think you should go for it. It’s funny what different worlds we live in but have similar realizations. I think once I go back I may love it again but I think you have an amazing opportunity and should seize it. If you don’t try you’ll never know. I’m pretty sure this life will be here waiting for you if you need it back. Same may be true for that life. Cheesy me says Follow the heart.
Good for you : ) and I’d say Good Luck, but I don’t think you need it! Viva Cuenca!
Nice decision Ayngelina! I think a little street food can also be part of the mix!
We’re all in this together! I admire your guts. It’s exactly what everyone wants. I guess the question is: How badly do we want it?
Take your shot and see where it leads! What do you have to lose? What’s the worst that can happen? It didn’t work out and you had to return home? If this is what you feel called to do, then seek out advice and take a chance.
Call me a bit philosophical these days but I am curious what your motivation is for traveling and what is it you are seeking (this comes from my latest post so your struggle only confirms my questions)
I am super-proud of you, Ayngelina! You’ve got loads of amazing wisdom to share and lots of lives to brighten.
Excellent. Setting the intention and sharing your goals with the universe (not to be confused with the blogosphere) is a key first step… and a scary one.
The next step is allowing yourself to lean into uncertainty. Don’t panic when you don’t have it all figured out right away. You need to be responsible, of course, but don’t be too quick to craft back-down or deferment strategies – they have a way of undermining your goal.
Having been through the process ourselves (and come out victorious!), we know the confusing mix of emotions. The fear, the uncertainty, the exhilaration…
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need some positive affirmation or have questions. You have friends in Seattle who are backing you 100%!
You only fail by not trying!
p.s. great title. saw it on twitter and HAD to see what the secret was. I’m going to copy this one day 😉
Good for you – a new year means new beginnings…go for it you will do just fine…i’m following you…
good luck!!
I’ve been thinking about this too. Technically I am location independent now I suppose, I’m just not using my freedom yet. Think it will be next year that’s the big one. This year I have to see how freelancing pans out. My main goal for 2011 is not to return to full time 9-5 work.
being British I will put a slightly downbeat slant on it. I say go for it and tell us how it can be done. My logic is that if you can’t make it work, no one can! And if that’s the case I’ll save myself some dreamtime. 😉
As an aside, I really like what you did with the large font colour text for the big points. If you suddenly see a similar effect on my blog one day it will be a complete coincidence, honest.
@NVR Guys: Wait, so there’s a real world beyond the bloggodrome? Whoa, this a red pill blue pill moment for me. Must eat less cheese before bed.
YAY!!! we get to read what you write all the time forever and ever and ever 🙂
Bravo! Hurrah! Am I allowed to say those words? Well I did and you deserve praise for giving your idea a red hot go. Hopefully paid opportunities fall into your lap.
Congratulations! What an exciting step! The first step to doing something is knowing what you want to do–and making it public is awesome motivation.
You’re great Ayngelina you’ll be successful. Sure you might fall on your face once or twice, but you can’t be successful without doing that. Just pick yourself up, brush off the dirt and keep moving forward. You have something amazing to share. Good for you for being brave enough to chase your dreams.
I’ve been doing similar thinking recently as well and Craig and I are coming up with a plan as to how to take this up a couple of levels. It will work for you! Can’t wait to hear where the new road takes you
i think you came up with a great solution to writer’s block, to write about it. sure you will continue your worldwide domination!
When I read it I felt like it was me talking. I know how you feel, because I’m going through exactly the same process. I feel confused and a bit scared but I guess the best part of the process of realisation of what we want from life, is the fact that we finally can see options we couldn’t see before.
I am sure you will succeed. Just stick to it, be persistant and never give up. That’s what I am telling myself 🙂
When you want something bad enough you will get it! Dont let anyone tell you no and keep going hard! 🙂
Ayngelina, good for you for following your heart and your dreams. I believe that if you follow your passions, you will be happy and the path will become clearer.
Wow, you are Audrey Tatou’s twin in this picture. It’s gorgeous, and so is the post.
hi gutsy chick! Wow, am really excited for you. Whatever fears you have are justified but, I have faith in u to work things out! how bout working where you are..?
Best of luck to you Ayngelina! Your blog is one of my favorites and I always enjoy reading your posts. I can completely relate to your feelings….I just wish I had the ability right now to travel permanently too. I think all of us are behind you! 🙂
Good for you, hun. Don’t ever be ashamed of who you are.
I’m in the same boat. I’m heading to Central and South America at the end of the year and will be doing a course that qualifies me to teach English. I want to be able to combine my love for travel with something I enjoy (languages) and I managed to find the perfect result. 🙂
Just follow your heart and do whatever it is you want to do. Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you need to be settled in one place and get married and have kids and find a 9-5 office job. That’s just society’s expectation. You find your passion. You do what makes you happy. You only get one life. We all need to make the most out of it with no regrets. 😀
Hey Aygnelina, I tried commenting about four times last night, but I guess my internet connection was too slow for it to get through. I’m behind you 100%. I totally relate to your feeling that you can’t go back to your old life. I’m sure you can achieve your new goal!
You’re already a success. You’re just getting ready for a different kind of success. Congratulations on following your heart. More people, including me, should do more of that. You are an inspiration!
Awesome! You’ll get no judgment from me since I’m doing the very same thing. I hope to make this trip last my lifetime. I haven’t even left yet, and I can’t imagine coming back to “life as usual.” Awesome for you!
Wanting to be location independent and have a portable source of income seems like every travelrs dream! It sure is mine. Good luck in your endeavor. Can’t wait to see where it takes you!
How EXCITING! Sure it’ll be scary, but where there’s a will, there’s a way. Good luck!
This is so exciting! I’m sure you can find a way to make this work if it’s something you really want. Can’t wait to read more about your adventures!
Congratulations Ayngelina! It’s a very brave thing to do and I’m sure you’ll do well!
This is very exciting news. I’m sure you’ll be able to achieve whatever you set out to do, and more.
Good luck reaching location independence. That’s my goal too. But in the meantime, I’ll be funding my travels with English teaching and other part-time/temporary jobs.
I can totally relate to you experience! After traveling straight for 12 months, I came back to New York and was overcome with the feeling of being a stranger in a foreign land. I think that’s the inevitable result of traveling for such a long period of time. It makes it very, very hard to go back to the “old” routine. I’m still adjusting– and I got back in the summer of 2009! Hope you can find a way to continue your travels and stay in Latin America 🙂
I wish you the best of luck! Traveling indefinitely sounds amazing and I truly hope you find a way to make it work!
You’re already a success Ayngelina, just look at all these comments. I have complete, utter faith in you!
Whoever tells you you can’t make a living, it’s a lie. I’ve been doing it for two years, you won’t get billionaire, but you can make it. Besides, if you want to travel a lot, I believe you won’t want to carry too much stuff, so you’ll set your own priorities.
There are many freelancing jobs you can do from anywhere, they’ll help you fund your travels and live the life you want.
I totally understand you don’t want to go back to your old job, same for me. I might not have all comforts “settled” people have, but the only thought of going to the same office every single day and having only 2 weeks holiday for traveling makes me go nuts.
Enjoy your life the way you like 😉
I know how you feel when you say you are scared of judgment from other people. My family doesn’t even believe that I will travel to the places I want to go to.
I am so happy for you that you have realized that this is what you want 🙂 I am sure you will find out the perfect way to become location independent. I am excited to read about it as it happens for you 🙂 Congratulations ! Your life will be so much more fulfilling than those who think you can’t do it and who can’t imagine even stepping outside their normal 9 to 5 lives
Congratulations and good luck, Ayngelina. You’ll have lots of well-wishers (people who read your blog, for a start) and you’ll have people who think you definitely will fall flat on your face. Who cares about the ones trying to hold you back!?
We could never go back to our old jobs or lives in Britain now and you made the big move in quitting your job to travel in the first place. I know it’s a cliche but because you made that move, opportunities will find you. 🙂
I’m going to be more direct in my comment than just saying ‘go for it and follow your dream’. Most of us don’t want our travels to come to an end so it’s natural to feel as you do. The question I would ask is, what are the underlying reasons for this change. Is it an escape from something, is it about living in the moment or is there more to it. I’m not suggesting you reveal the reason to us, but to think about it openly and honestly. If this lifestyle becomes the daily grind for you, where would you get your time away from it, and so on.
Just in case my comment sounds ambiguous, I’m not saying don’t do it, but do it for the right reasons.
Good luck with the decision 🙂
PS I love the photo!
you are a perfectionist, happy new year
YES!! Good on you for being true to yourself and sharing it — there are so many people to encourage & support you!
I admitted out loud to two friends in the last week that I’ve realized I can’t go back and work full-time after my visa here is up…I have *no* idea what I’ll do to make enough money…but I can’t go back to one 3-week trip abroad every year. Just won’t cut it.
You have heaps of people who eagerly look forward to learning about the next steps 🙂
Good Luck on your journey. As long as it means we will be getting much more of your witty posts along the way, I back you 100%.
why not a bright, glowing unknown! you say-“I can’t write a post if I’m not completely honest so I wrote nothing. But I can’t keep delaying telling you the truth.” and i feel as though you’ve crawled into my head! ayngelina i have a post in drafts right now called “confession” (which of course i’ll change!) and have been sitting on some pretty big news. i really understand the feeling you’re describing here and absolutely believe that you’ll make it work. my mom says 11 is an auspicious number- so let’s believe this is the year for dreams to come true. go for it!
Woohoo! Awesome! You can do it!
No idea why you would be afraid to share that. I think it’s a wonderful idea and I truly wish you the best in pursuing your dream.
Just keep an open heart and an open mind and I’m sure you’ll find jobs along the way which will allow you to keep travelling. You have skills and talents that can be used to do work on the road, so you may not even have to stop too often.
Best of luck, my fellow traveller!
xox
It’s a bright unknown, Ayngelina, a bright unknown 🙂
Good luck Ayngelina;
I have nothing more to say. I am sure you will be fine.
Wishing you all the best.
Hi, from China … You are right to be worried – cos life changes constantly and it is intense ( sorry, if I offended you on Twitter). Travel, travel travel … and die happy
the candy trail … a nomad across the planet, since 1988
PS: i fell in love with your icon …
no condemnation here! only a wee bit ‘o jealousy!
Rock it. And write for me =) You’re doing all the “right” things from my perspective – building a fascinating life for ya self.
Whoo-hooo!!!
After coming up for a year, I’m on a similar path to you. I don’t want to go back to big city life, big city costs, big city time, that old life I left behind, so I’m hoping to make the jump to location independence, too… I really hope it works out for you. And, tell me, is the man in the mix, too?
@Theodora
Alas no man in the mix but we parted amicably. He was the last tie I cut and once I did it I realized I had no reason to go home. A wonderful feeling that also made me want to puke 🙂
Go for it! Many have done it before and you won’t be the last. You do have lots to share and plenty of support, screw the neigh sayers. I will continue to read the blog and follow your adventures on Twitter and continue to find inspiration to one day (sooner than later) do the same!
ADT
I only wish I could have an opportunity to travel like you. Enjoy every moment on your journey 🙂
An amazing experience, isn’t it? A self realization that you CAN follow your dreams.
I cannot relate 100% just yet, but my time is coming, and its coming fast.
Follow your dreams, you owe that much to yourself. Make 2011 EPIC.
Welcome to the wonderful disease of travel addiction. It’s all about following your dream. It IS possible to set up a lifestyle to do what you want & love. GOOD LUCK!
Well, judging by all the awesome comments of support, I’m sure it’ll be no surprise when I say: Go for it!!
I know it’s scary to go after a dream that seems almost unattainable. But you’ll be so much happier once you go for it.
Good luck! I can’t wait to follow along on the journey.
Sweet Blog! Does the .ca mean you’re a fellow Canadian. I love your photo’s and would love to use some on my blog if possible. JSJ
I think this sounds like a great idea Ayngelina!!! Good luck with it and I hope for the best! Let me know if you need help with anything 🙂
You only live once so go for it. Worst case you fall on your face and have to crawl back to an office gig. Best case you live your dreams and live happily ever after. That fear of failure is tough to overcome BUT are you more fearful of failing or more fearful of regretting not going for it years later?
Change is constant. We all [hopefully] continue to learn, grow, and evolve. Moving forward with a dream takes courage, especially when we can’t see the outcome. As scary as it may be, follow your heart. Personally, I think looking back and saying “if only” or “I should have” is the worst kind of failure. Trying and going for your dream, regardless of perceived success/failure is a triumph in and of itself. Wishing you all the best in your new adventures in 2011!
Girl, every time you doubt yourself all you have to do is read the comments for inspiration and encouragement. We all know you can do it!!!!!!!!
NEVER GO BACK! Or not until you’re ready. And don’t listen to anyone that tells you that you CAN’T do it.
Hi Ayngelina,
So, so, so brave of you to 1.) acknowledge what you really want and 2.) to articulate it to the world and put yourself out there for both the fans and critics.
All I have to say is, Go for it! You can do it!
– Lily
As someone that has followed you since 1977, I am happy that you are looking/finding ways to live your life in a way that is meaningful to you…most people can’t, won’t or don’t…but, as your mother, it is often difficult to have you so far away.
Although I do not personally know you, I’m very proud of you. I am 10 weeks into a planned year-long sabbatical traveling Latin America, and I’m already beginning to wonder how I will ever go back to my previous life.
Make it happen!
You’ve already fought half the battle in admitting it to the world, but I know it is hard. I have unfinished business here where I am, but I am mentally ready for it. Cheers!
Brava! YOU CAN DO IT. figure out the website/income thing (we did, and it’s a great income), travel, write, live your dreams. somehow, the universe will align – and you’ll be SO glad you took this step.
Hubby and I traveled around S.A. for a year, went back to Canada and said EFF this. We are back on the road, sitting in Honduras, going down the same path as you – trying to make this a state of permanence. Scary, exciting, but it’s just one of those things that MUST be done. Good luck! =)
P.S. We loved Cuenca, but fell in love with Baños – make sure it’s on your list!
This is great! I wish you loads of luck and some money as well in your new endeavor 😉
I am sure you will do well, as long as you sure that this is what we want to do. Its a brave decision nevertheless!
A mentor of mine would always tell, not to be afraid to share whatever talent that I have, but I fear of failing.
First: I love your Amélie-style photo for this post. Second: I feel ya, I took off the summer on parental leave and that much time out of the rat-race altered my perspective forever. Third: This is a way girl. JSJ
Take a look at the Location Independent website started by Lea Woodward.There’s heaps of information that will help you. She has also written various guides that will help you get on your way. I strongly recommend it.
Hey girl, don’t be afraid. Do what make you happy. Sometime writing come from inspirations too, and I think traveling inspired you. Go for it still!
You’re so talented, Ayngelina that I just know you’re going to be able to do something completely excellent! Good luck =)
Hey, i liked the phrase “It’s all a dark unknown”. It happens that we actually have a vision, a clear vision where to go but we can’t define it. Thats what is happening to you 🙂 So keep on traveling and follow your heart 🙂
Come to Pakistan and experience some unique culture and landscapes here 🙂
Keep it up. We are trying to be able to fund this lifestyle too. We don’t know whether we will be successful or not. I guess if the mobile-works we are doing don’t work, we will need to settle down somewhere and work 9-5 like others…
You are brave to admit that, to allow the critics to comment. But I DO know you and know that you are a pretty determined little character. LOVE your blog, love reading your adventures and am inspired by you. You are living life with freedom, living it with more honesty and happiness than most of us do. Keep on your path as long as each new day brings you happiness and new challenges. This BLOG is marketable…make it pay your way.
And even if you fall flat on your face, which i doubt you will my magic friend, you will pick yourself up and compose a killer blog.
You fly by not being afraid to fall out of the sky.
You Rock, we love you, now go grab life by the bacon!
I hope it works out for you. It is better to shoot for the stars and hit the moon than to aim for the moon and hit a rock.
It’ll work it’s way out. One way or another. Keep telling yourself that. It will. I speak from (recent) experience.
xoL
kudos to your courage ayngelina… in a few months from now i’ll be travelling again and same as you i know i cant go back to my old job and i cant go back to that “old me’ because everything has changed already…. wish i know how to help you but as of now i can only wish you well… see you on the road…
I LOVE this. I think it is a brilliant idea. DO IT!! I understand completely how you feel … and if this is what you want, then you should embrace it and live your dream. I can’t wait to read more. Congratulations!
Do it! Do it! Do it!
You are living a life of learning, love and…good food! A large part of me wants to do what you are doing. The one question I have for you is do you have a goal? Do you want to accomplish something that you are on a direct path with or is this more of a lifestyle choice?
I quite literally JUST found your blog and I already love it. The name itself makes me swoon. 🙂 You go for it girl, and you’ll rock at it. I’m sure it’ll be a learning experience, but one that you can share with the rest of us. I would love to travel indefinitely as well. You’ll be an inspiration for so many. Tell the story you want to live. Live the story you want to tell.
I found you on Blog Top Sites. It’s was a great find 🙂 Also, I’ll have to pick your brain on Ecuador. The mister and I are planning a little trip there and to the Galapagos in June/July. Any input would be more than welcomed!
Me too, leaving soon and not planning to come back,perpetually travelling, scares me to death, but I have to do it or regret for the rest of my life. so absolutely GO for it! PS love your content
Do it! Enjoy it! And just keep writing so we can all enjoy it with you 🙂
Once you do it and make the decision – you’ll probably realise it wasn’t such a big deal after all if it feels right. A friend gave me a lovely piece of advice when I was in a similar position. She told me to write down all the reasons why I wanted to do this and all the reasons why I didn’t want to do my old job any more – as a way of getting me through the inevitable moments of doubt later on. Turns out I never once looked back at that list but it made things feel much easier once I’d written them all down. Good luck!
You only live once. Make the most of the time you have and don’t look back.
I’ll be happy to listen to any tips you might have on achieving this. So far I haven’t been sucesful…but maybe someday?
Good luck! Do your best to make it work… You can always change your mind and return home but for now I think you should just keep on going.
Good luck with your decision. There are many ways to make it happen. I’m sure you’ll find what works best for you. I’ve been living in Asia for the past ten years and for the last five have been able to travel 5-6 months out of the year, which works great for me.
I spent a lifetime making money. I worked since I was 11 years old chasing the “Jones” and I caught them! Then one day I realized what it all had turned me into after an accident that for me was a game changer. If I could offer you three words of advise : LIVE, LOVE AND LAUGH there is no life without it. Anything you really want you can achieve. Have confidence in yourself and enjoy!!!!!
good luck, follow your dreams!
Hell yeah! Go for it… that is all.
The phrase ‘where there’s a will there’s a way’ comes to mind. If you want something enough. I believe you can make it happen.
Really Good luck with it Ayngelina!
Sounds incredible! Just remember that you’ll never steal second with your foot on first base. You have to take the chance! And don’t worry about the money part yet, I hear money follows passion so just keep living passionately!
Best of luck, Ayngelina 🙂
Best of luck!! You are doing what most of us, myself included, also want to do. I hope you have so many excellent adventures! (And I hope to one day follow your lead)
I say go for it! You’re obviously a talented writer and have a way of drawing people into your stories so I think you will find much success! Good luck to you!
Yes, we have ‘writer’s block’ time to time. I think that way we grow, right? And it’s all unknown, sometimes just can figure out ‘why’.
But you know, you’ve been doing such a great job, and I strongly believe you will. 🙂
I am rooting for you. Follow your passion and you will be rewarded..sounds like you already have been in so many ways. :o)
I would say, Go for it! I believe that you are a talented writer and I admire you. God Bless!
Please keep doing what your doing! It’s people just like you that inspire me to travel and just live for happiness. I’m taking off a week after I turn 18, but I never would have considered a nomadic lifestyle if it weren’t for inspiring blogs and websites like yours.
thanks for showing me that its okay to do what you want and not what you should.
Best of luck!
Thanks so much Becci, if you have any questions about Latin America don’t hesitate to contact me.
Hi Ayngelina–I’m new to your blog, but I love, love, LOVE it. I am a wanderer at heart, but I’ve lacked the courage to just get up and go like you. You’re website is an inspiration and I love your work. 🙂
It’s probably too late that I saying this…but you are talking for a million voices out there who would want to do what you have set out to do. The difference is they (like myself) can’t do it, whereas you can. And as they say, follow your heart…and happiness will follow u.
Thanks Bhavesh, that’s so kind of you. But I truly believe ‘can’t’ doesn’t exist, you just need to find a way you ‘can’
well said 🙂 share your experiences, i can live my wishes thru it 🙂
Thank you for sharing 🙂
And good for you! I know many people who have done this and I’m sure you can too.
It’s not as hard as it seems you know, you just have to really want it and then go for it!
Thanks so much, I’m certainly going to give it my best shot!
I have no idea of your specifics, but at this time about a year later in my opinion you have made it. Best of Luck and I look forward to reading more from you in 2012.
Thanks Ryan that is really so nice of you to say.
Awesome post Ayngelina! I too used to work full time at IBM and quit my job to pursue a career working online. That was over 7 years ago, and I haven’t looked back!
I love reading these kind of inspirational stories because at times I get worried about if I am gonna stop making money online one day, and this is the kind of thing that keeps me going!
Good luck with your adventure!
Despite to the fact that your post is a bit older, I can totally relate to it. And look at you now, things have been worked out for you! Reading your post, that’s exactly how I feel, there is now way I’m going back to Germany and doing my old office job again. Since I started traveling in 2008, I feel so much more alive. Gosh I hope I can go on with my dream and living life without a fixed address.
Thx for this post 🙂
I am starting to get to that point that I also don’t want a regular job. I feel you :). Thankfully, I never had a ‘regular job’ but I dont want one.
Stepping out there and becoming location independent is a major step in life. You are responsible for finding your own world and managing projects. I jumped into writing as I seen it as a way to keep traveling and not have to do monotonous jobs. Living in Thailand now 🙂
It looks like you’ve found a way by now, that’s very inspiring 🙂
Hopefully getting there too soon.
I know exactly the feeling. I have now been away for a year, and it all has been unplanned, I didn’t know for how long I was going to stay until I more or less ended up going home. You miss everything you had there, and at the same time when I was away I missed certain things and people that I had at home. I also went through a break-up from a longterm relationship, so I know the exact feeling of not belonging. I live with my parents now, and I was scared of it at first, but its actually a good thing I think to “start from scratch”. take this time to go back, think about what YOU really want. And don’t forget to try to live life where you are, always.
Life is full of surprises. Of course sometimes we lost ourselfs but we have to keep moving and the way will show. Keep moving Ayngelina you are doing great!
This may be a post from a few years ago, but the inspiring words are still true today. From looking around the rest of your site it sure seems like you took your own advice and I say congrats on that, I hope to make the same kind of leap here soon and reading this confirms I’m on the right path!