She Strengthens

Embracing the Thrill of the Unknown: A Guide to Starting Anew

As T.S. Eliot so eloquently put it, “We shall not cease from exploration. And the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.” For my wife and me, this quote resonates deeply, as we’ve made a conscious decision to live life on our own terms, constantly seeking new experiences and adventures.

A Life of Movement

We’ve called six cities home in the past ten years, averaging a move every twenty months. It’s not about running away from our problems; it’s about embracing the thrill of the unknown and refusing to settle into a stale routine. As we often joke, the day we decide to put down roots may as well be the day we pick out our own coffins – a morbid thought, perhaps, but one that highlights our passion for living life to the fullest.

The Art of Starting Over

Over the years, we’ve honed the art of starting anew, and we’ve distilled our experiences into a simple guide to help others do the same.

Recognizing the Need for Change

It’s essential to recognize when it’s time to shake things up. For us, that moment arrives when our days become indistinguishable from one another. It’s a signal to introspect, to ask ourselves what we want out of life, what our goals are, and whether our routines have grown stale.

Planning Your Escape

Dreaming of a new city? Now’s the time to make it a reality. But don’t be impulsive – plan carefully, and give yourself at least six to twelve months to prepare. Get your ducks in a row, and have a solid game plan in place.

The Financial Reality

Moving is expensive, with start-up costs ranging from $5,000 to $7,000. Create a moving budget, track your expenses, and save accordingly. A good rule of thumb is to multiply your monthly expenses by six to create an emergency fund, and then add another $2-3K on top of that.

Nurturing Relationships

In today’s digital age, relationships shouldn’t hold you back. While it’s essential to prioritize your partner or those you live with, don’t compromise on your goals. Distance can give you a fresh perspective on the relationships that truly matter, and those are the ones worth making an effort for.

Ditching the Clutter

We view possessions as mere inconveniences. When preparing for a move, we sell or donate our furniture and purge everything that doesn’t fit into two large suitcases. Keep only what enhances your life, and consider ditching your car if possible – it’s often enough to justify an entire move.

Scouting Ahead

Take a scouting trip to your destination beforehand to avoid costly rookie mistakes. Ask questions, meet locals, and explore different neighborhoods to get a feel for the area.

Savoring the Countdown

As you prepare to leave, you’ll develop a new appreciation for the city you’re about to leave behind. Starting over isn’t about running away; it’s about embracing the present moment.

Finding Your Rhythm

Once you’ve made the move, strike a balance between exploring new things and developing a routine. It’s a delicate dance, but one that will help you settle into your new surroundings and make the most of your new adventure.

Jennie and Ivan are a twenty-something couple based in Los Angeles, where they run a simple living blog called The Origami Life. They’re preparing for a global search for the simple life, set to embark on this journey in September 2018.