Have you ever stopped and asked yourself what it is that you want in life? What are your priorities? How close are you to the vision you had of yourself as a kid?

Little Lauren dreamed of future Lauren as being confident and adventurous. I never want to stop learning, dancing, or loving the world around me. I dream of experiencing different cultures, and sharing laughs with people from around the globe…

August 2014 rolled around, marking one year since graduation. I think the most proper way to describe how I was feeling– stuck. Don’t get me wrong, there is no place like home. There is nothing like your personal oasis of unconditional love. However, I was stuck in my comfort zone. You know what they say– the comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing grows there. I needed a push, and that push was purchasing a one way flight to Los Angeles for Monday, September 22nd… the last day of summer.

The weeks that followed were filled with dedicated work and planning. If you’re not familiar with Airbnb- it is a hosting service that allows you to travel on a budget, and stay with people in locations over 190 countries. A true gem if you do you research.

Getting ready for this journey was nothing but exciting, however, I avoided thinking about one main part of it all: actually leaving home! The weekend before I left was a whirlwind of emotions. Let me tell you, there is nothing quite like an adventure of this magnitude to show you who your true supporters are.

The sun set on Sunday the 21st, and that’s when I broke down. I finally felt the fear, the nerves, and the loneliness. I allowed myself a hot shower of freaking out, and then reminded myself why I was taking this adventure. If I was going to let the negative emotions take over, then I might as well stay home.

The Bottom Line:

• You are only as stuck as you believe yourself to be. You want to get unstuck? Make moves in the direction you want to head in. 
• Negative emotions will accompany an overwhelming experience, but don’t lose sight of what you’re doing, or let the negative outweigh the positive.
• Don’t take your support systems for granted! Love them and appreciate them with all of your heart. 
• Pack light, don’t overthink things, and just do it!!!