Career transitions
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
If you only read a few
Take a step back sometimes to come back stronger.
It allows you to return stronger.
one person who lived it
Work on your portfolio before starting freelance work, as it is the primary factor in client decisions.
It is the first thing clients see and likely determines most of their decision.
one person who lived it
Recognize that long-term trips taken while poor and young can be more rewarding than shorter, high-budget trips later in life.
Personal relationships and time spent in the country are better during long, low-budget trips compared to quick, high-dollar ones.
one person who lived it
Ask your CPA firm for a mock tax return projection to see in writing how financial decisions may affect you.
It shows how the decision may impact your finances.
one person who lived it
Use work-exchange platforms to trade labor for food and accommodation if you plan a long-term stay.
It is often better than couch surfing for longer stays and can help you get fitter while learning about other lifestyles.
one person who lived it
Build freelance skills now to create a remote income, making traditional jobs optional rather than mandatory.
A remote income allows you to choose whether to work traditional jobs.
one person who lived it
Save up money before leaving your current situation to ensure you have enough funds to return home if needed.
To ensure financial stability during the transition.
one person who lived it
Focus on learning new skills and trying adventures closer to home as you get older, especially if you have children.
International travel becomes more difficult and expensive with kids, involving multiple tickets and logistical challenges like finding bathrooms instead of wandering freely.
one person who lived it
Focus on internal changes rather than expecting travel to provide novel experiences.
Internal change matters more than external experience.
one person who lived it
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Distinguish between manufacturing in China and simply ordering goods from China.
There is a difference between the two approaches.
one person who lived it
Actively engage with local people during travel to learn their history, opinions, values, and feelings, building empathy primarily for your own enlightenment and growth.
Do this for your own enlightenment and professional/personal growth, not for them.
one person who lived it
Volunteer or do community service in your spare time.
One person found it incredibly rewarding, providing perspective, direction, and opportunities to meet great people.
one person who lived it
Avoid setting super high or unrealistic expectations.
You won't be disappointed.
one person who lived it
Be cautious of scammers contacting you via direct messages after publicly disclosing accumulated wealth.
Admitting to having accumulated wealth can attract scammers sliding into DMs.
one person who lived it
I'm on a similar path.
Solidarity.
one person who lived it
Awesome achievement!
Praise.
one person who lived it
Understand that entrepreneurial success is rented, not owned, requiring daily effort.
one person who lived it