by 
I’ve been extra nomadic over the past few months. Since I’ve started my journey, my normal has been to be in one city for 10-14 days, at least, before traveling again. Lately I’ve been averaging maybe 4 days in city before moving on to the next. It has been exhilarating and exhausting! But at the end of the day, I love it.
What being a nomad means to me…
- Sometimes forgetting what city I’m in… I’ve woke up on more than one occasion with a cautious survey of the room to remind myself whose house or hotel I was sleeping. I’ve forgotten where I parked, and I’ve even gotten into the wrong car.
- Being flexible. With the frequent travel, plans change, work schedules evolve, and flights get canceled. Being able to adjust on the fly and adapt is necessary.
- Learning how to pack enough, but not too much. I travel with the same items for 4 to 12 weeks depending on my schedule. I have to prepared for not only seasonal changes but also clinical work, recreational activities, formal events, workouts and who knows when I’ll find my way to the beach or a pool. In addition to clothes, I need my laptop, toiletries and hair essentials (that I may not be able to find in some of the towns I find myself).
- Being content my own company. Honestly, I probably hang out with my friends more than most. I’ve seen 2 of my friends who live in separate states, at least 6 times over the past 6 months. But there are weeks that I see no one. I am comfortable taking myself out to dinner or happy hour or just on a walk.
- Though I’m constantly traveling, I’m not constantly on vacation. Being mindful of my spending, eating habits and physical activity is a must to be responsible and provide some level of consistency.
How long will I live this way? Short answer, I don’t know… Being nomadic is definitely a personal journey and not for everyone. I’ve met a several people over the last few years who have been location independent for various amounts of time in their lives. Some planned to be nomadic for a finite number of months or years. Others became fatigued with the travel, some stopped to start families or for a permanent job opportunity. We’ll see what life brings my way. For now, my journey continues.
