The obstacle before my travel life: Photo taken using Iphone X

THE OBSTACLE — I used to spend plenty of time behind the desk, isolated in a cube just like the majority of the working class. I had expectations to meet, parents to make proud of, and a stable future to build. However, I always dreamed of traveling. In my heart, I knew there is a whole planet to explore, people to meet, and cultures to experience. The strictures of my full-time job was a huge obstacle to my backpacking dreams. The people closest to me even frowned upon my unconventional version of the future. They say life is an adventure, but I certainly won’t be able to find that within the four corners of my cubicle. Don’t get me wrong, I loved my job. I was secure. And yet, I was unhappy. Quitting my job was a hard pill to swallow, but not allowing myself to reach for my dreams of traveling was like shoving a knuckle down my throat. A life of traveling is not a luxury for most- it’s, in fact, A CHOICE. It was a choice I made when I ventured out to become a digital nomad. The truth is there are no shortcuts to achieving this goal. Like me, you have to be strong, you have to dismiss the negativity society is telling you about this lifestyle, and you have to always make tough choices. Look what it did to me? It helped me grow in every way, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually. I may not have Bill Gate’s billions, but I’ve become rich in experience and a whole lot happier than I was a few years ago. If you’re sitting at your desk all day thinking of what ifs, then something isn’t what it should be. Follow your heart, take risks, and learn about yourself along the way. If you follow your heart’s calling, you’re headed in the right direction.

Location: Bulusan Lake, Sorsogon, Philippines