Travel Quote Series: The Misunderstood Escapist

“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” – Anonymous

You’re an adult now. School is out. You’re living an independent lifestyle, away from family perhaps, or rooming with friends. You’ve got your first real job, maybe at a high-rise in town. Or maybe you’ve been in the game for a few years…or 10. You’re holding it down with a mortgage and family life knocking at your door. You think your clock is ticking and it’s time to move onto the next proper phase in life. No matter your situation at this moment, you may have heard some of this helpful advice along the way:

“Pay your dues, get in line, and go after the American Dream.”

“If your job is tough, suck it up. No one “loves” their work.”

“Put down some roots and start a family before your window of opportunity passes.”

“If you’re feeling a little restless and like you don’t belong in this rat race called life, there are pills for that.”

Right…helpful.

There is an annoyingly permeating belief that wanderers, or those who strive to always be “anywhere but here” are just trying to escape their responsibilities, their jobs, their lives. The assumption is that they just can’t handle real life and grown up obligations. 

The truth is there are simply different types of people in this world. Some seek security and a more rooted life – either out of innate desire or a respectable sense of duty to themselves or their family. Others seek novelty and a less rooted life – either out of innate desire or a respectable sense of duty to themselves or their family. Different goals, same drives - both valid.

The travelers, the wanderers, the free-spirited risk takers – and those of us who are wondering if we are – we are not escapists for the sake of dodging reality. We are escapists of a “reality” that doesn’t quite fit us. If you’re reading this blog, there’s a good chance that you’re leaning toward the way of the novelty seekers. I have no doubt that for us, incredible experiences are just waiting to happen. It’s a matter of choosing to go where life can take us.

I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Please share below.