Take Time Off to Travel: Meet, Plan, Go!

I remember buying my first “Life Is Good” t-shirt – you know, the ones with that stick-figure mascot “Jake” and those simple slogans. I was particularly drawn to their tagline: “Do What You Like, Like What You Do.” Words to live by for sure.

Years later, my wife and I took a trip around the world — 28 different countries in a year’s time — with our two young boys. When I think back, there were many factors that influenced our decision to take a break from our careers to travel, but I wonder if wearing that “Life Is Good” philosophy on my back could have rubbed off on me – literally?

I would soon come to learn that we weren’t the only ones to choose this path when I stumbled upon Meet, Plan, Go!, an organization dedicated to launching a career-break movement in North America. After experiencing firsthand how life-changing and liberating taking a career break can be, I immediately wanted to get involved.

On October 16, Meet, Plan, Go! will host events in cities across the U.S. (and in Toronto) to help people fulfill their long-term travel dreams without jeopardizing their careers. Participants get the chance to chat with both experts and fellow aspiring travelers to get the motivation, contacts, and resources they need to start taking concrete steps toward global adventure.

As the host of last year’s event in New York City, I had the privilege of meeting some pretty amazing people. Some, like me, had already fulfilled their own dreams of long-term travel. Others were just getting started in the planning process, and needed a little encouragement to take the final plunge.

It didn’t take much to persuade most people. Just answering the basic questions and addressing some ABCs of logistics was enough to push them over the edge.

Then there were those who really wanted to do it, but were struggling with anxiety about making such a bold move.

Having now seen several Meet, Plan, Go! “graduates” successfully make the break, I’m humbled to think that I might have played a small role in influencing their decision.

So join me on October 16 in New York or find an event closer to your hometown (in addition to NYC and Toronto, there are events taking place in Austin, Boston, Chicago, Minneapolis, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, and Miami).

I can guarantee one thing: after hearing stories from people (just like you) who managed to overcome the unique challenges that long-term travel entails, it’ll be hard to say no to the ride.

After all, life is indeed good!

Learn more about Meet, Plan, Go! by watching this short introductory video:

Follow Rainer’s story on Twitter @JenssTravel.