I love our home. Our three boys have hit their stride at a fantastic school. We deeply cherish our friendships in the community and greatly value our family nearby. I’d say that one of our happiest places as a family is gathered around our kitchen island on a cozy fall evening, football game in the backdrop, while dishing out savory goodness that has been simmering on the stovetop for hours. Familiar feels comfortable. Comfortable feels warm. Warmth feels good.
So, why disrupt such a cozy ecosystem?
Venturing out of the comfort zone from time to time is where we grow…really grow. “Outside the comfort zone” is a well used phrase that actually merits its popularity. Much has been written about stepping outside one’s comfort zone to gain a greater perspective on real life. As anyone who has ever packed a suitcase can attest to, traveling is one way to do that.
For over a year, I’ve had a printed copy of The Emotional Journey of Doing Anything Great staring at me from behind my Mac. I can’t recall where I came across it, but it instantly resonated with me. I printed it, tacked it up, checked a box somewhere to feel productive, and went on with my day.
Over the next several months, the occasional glance matured into a thoughtful stare. A mental dual ensued between achieving this is one of the things I’m most proud of knowing that you have to pass through the dark swamp of despair. Is it worth it?
We’re leaning towards yes.
For our honeymoon, Sean and I traveled to Australia and New Zealand. With limited time off from jobs, we raced through eastern Australia and the south island of New Zealand in just under 3 weeks, savoring every inch. Most travelers we met settled in for 4 months, minimum, for the same journey. We were amazed this was possible as non-backpacking, professional adults, and were immediately planning such a journey in our minds. We knew that another level of travel awaited us, at some point down the road.
Fast forward, 16 years and three kids. We continued to talk about it and realized that kids, careers, and everything else aligned to create an ideal window of opportunity. They can all swim, read, and carry their own bags. Technology, as much as we hate it sometimes, now affords us seamless communication with friends, family, school, and work. Most importantly, we are ready to step out of our comfort zone to experience, challenge, and grow.