How Did I Get Here? by Debbie

Have you ever found yourself gazing out of your office window, pondering the possibilities of what retirement will hold? Maybe you are already “pre-tired” or fully retired. Perhaps you've envisioned exploring the world or indulging in hobbies like gardening or painting. The transition into this new phase of life is deeply personal, and for many, it's a time of self-discovery and reinvention. This has been a reality for me over the past few years, and a time of change. Each person may be enduring changes in their lives, and wanted or not, change is inevitable.

For me, the sudden change brought on by the pandemic propelled me into a new journey sooner than expected. After decades in corporate roles, with a position as top producing sales channel manager in the educational technology sector, I was unceremoniously discarded with 14 others in a Zoom call due to the compliments of the pandemic and a brutal CEO capitalizing on taking government funds! This was the first time in my adult life that a job ended that was not of my own volition. Although I was already pondering my future as it related to downsizing my 60 hour a week high stress job, I wanted the change to happen on my own time and terms. However, this unwelcome and abrupt life alteration ultimately led me to embrace teaching online as an adjunct professor, a role that has become a true joy and allowed so many other doors to open. You know that old saying “when one door closes…” well that couldn’t be truer for me. I love teaching virtually, and it helps fund my wanderlust! Win-Win.

Life's twists and turns often resemble a winding mountain road, full of uncertainties and unexpected driving challenges. When faced with a medical diagnosis of severe Osteoporosis, while not life threatening, the vulnerability and fragility of our only body slapped me in the face. A spinal fracture could end my ability to ambulate. I made a conscious decision to prioritize experiences and travel while I was still physically able to see all those bucket list places.

Having spent years traveling solo for work within the United States, I found myself yearning for international adventures. Despite initial setbacks during my planning, and an injury during my first adventure, to London and Ireland, I persevered in my pursuit of exploration and creating new and wonderful journeys.

With careful planning and a keen eye for discounts and deals, I found a trip to see the Northern Lights in Iceland…yes, please! Then as my mind continues to work, I tell myself, if you are going all the way to Iceland, why not go on to Europe and so I did! These experiences exceeded my expectations and fueled my desire to continue exploring.

After deciding to let go of a contract role as a trainer early in 2024 (one of my three part time jobs and a source of travel funds), I found myself pondering how to fill my days with purpose and joy. When you’ve worked 50–60-hour weeks for decades, then filled your days with teaching and training, slowing down isn’t easy. I am a notorious overachiever, and it is hard to relax. Drawing upon my passion for education, I embarked on creating content for senior travelers, blending technology and travel to share my experiences and insights. I love to take pictures, and I love to write – so a perfect combination.

It will be easy I told myself, but not so fast…

Navigating the world of content creation has been a learning curve, from mastering video editing to building a following on various social media platforms. Gaining momentum takes time, and I favor instant gratification. Yet, the journey has been rewarding so far, filled with opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and advocate for solo travelers, particularly seniors. I’ve been fortunate to already come across opportunities to interview solo traveler gurus, and plan for new trips as a result. I also discovered that people are protective of their "territory" even if you aren't trying to infringe. Because I was already hosting a show on technology called “Let’s Talk Tech” in a small active adult community and they offered me a second show! Senior Travel Adventures aired the first episode in March 2024, and is available on YouTube.

Through it all, my mantra remains clear: Erase the fear and Embrace the fun. Life is too short to let uncertainties hold us back from embarking on new adventures. Take off the age goggles, it is just a silly number. So, whether it's exploring distant lands or pursuing newfound passions, let's seize the moment and take the trip now.

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Senior Travel Adventures