Travel abroad. Seriously.
by Matt Critton
Everyone likes to be comfortable, wherever that may be.
Throughout our lives we have all found our own niches and over time we have become accustomed to and dependent on them.
Whether this is the basement of your parent’s house, the town you grew up in, or in my case, surrounded by those people whom I have spent the better part of my life with.
Although there is nothing wrong with this, believing it is all life has to offer is making a huge mistake.
I reached a point where I had to get away. I had to leave behind everything and everyone I had grown so accustomed to. I needed a challenge.
I wanted to be afraid for once.
Where should I go? New Zealand sounded nice.
I boarded the plane nearly six months ago with nothing but mountainous expectations leaving everything I knew behind.
What a feeling that was.
I got on the kiwis earlier for not having been to the south island. So, maybe this is a little too much to ask, but it is a lot to ask of anyone. Monetarily and emotionally. Yes, coming to New Zealand has put quite a dent on my bank account (and my parents), but I (and they) wouldn’t have it any other way.
As for the fear of living in an unfamiliar place so much of us have… Get over it.
I couldn’t think of another situation that forces adaptation and survival on a person. (Actually I’m sure there are many, but that would render my story ineffectual).
Even if you have the chance to go to another country for just a week, do it. Seriously. It is an experience you will never regret. Stepping out of your comfort zone is something that everyone must do. It is truly a learning experience. You will return home with a whole new perspective on life. I know I will.