I mentioned in my last blog that my identity is shifting to being a ‘continuous multi-country traveler’, rather than an ‘occasional traveler focused on singular destinations’. For me to really embrace that change I need to believe that that is who I am now.

One thing that has really helped me make the shift is being in hostels where so many young people (and an occasional older person) are living that life style. Most are ages 22-39 by my estimation. Some are here is Australia on work visas and are holding down jobs to make some money. Some are traveling as they prepare to go back to school. Some are world vagabonds, travel junkies looking for great experiences in all parts of the world.

Because I’m surrounded by people doing ‘continuous travel’, it’s much easier for me to see what’s modeled and be inspired to see myself in the same way. Obviously, I’m way past age 39, but I can still learn and be inspired by people that are the ages of my children. In fact, I’m always learning from my kids. They inspire me and set the pace for me to live in a modern world.

Here I’m with some fellow hostelers on a walking tour in Melbourne, Australia, seeing the laneways with restaurants, bars and shops tucked into open (and sometimes hidden) nooks and crannies.

Jim Rohn says you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with. In your organization or in your life, are you surrounding yourself with people who inspire you, model for you what you want to achieve? Are you selecting others to hang out with who will move you forward? In your organization are you selecting leaders who see your vision, or are you dealing with ‘professional againsters?’ You get to choose.

#travelingwhileworking #workingwhiletraveling