We were doing everything “right.” We had the house, the routine, the checklist of things that were supposed to mean we’d “made it.” But even when everything looked good on paper, something was missing. We were busy, but not fulfilled. Comfortable, but not truly living.
It took walking away from all of it—choosing a life on the road, in an RV, full of uncertainty and adventure—to realize what was wrong. We were living by default, not by choice. We were chasing expectations, not values.
The Power of Choosing What Matters
When we started this journey, it wasn’t about escaping responsibilities or running away. It was about getting honest with ourselves about what mattered most. For us, it was:
– Freedom to explore, learn, and grow together.
– Connection with each other, with nature, and with people who value experiences over things.
– Authenticity—living in a way that feels real and true, not just checking boxes off a societal to-do list.
But choosing to live by your values isn’t the easy route. In fact, it’s the opposite.
Discomfort Is the Price of a Meaningful Life
Here’s the truth we’ve learned: Living by your values is uncomfortable. It means stepping into uncertainty. It means feeling fear, doubt, and vulnerability—and choosing to act anyway.
We felt it all. When we sold most of our stuff, we left behind everything familiar, and we questioned if we were completely crazy. But we did it because comfort wasn’t the goal. Meaning was.
Discomfort is the price of a meaningful life. If you wait until you feel ready or fearless, you’ll wait forever. If you choose what’s comfortable over what matters, you’ll never live the life you truly want.
Turning Towards Discomfort
So we did the uncomfortable thing. We chose adventure over routine, experiences over possessions, and values over expectations. We didn’t do it because it was easy. We did it because it was worth it.
And we’re still learning. There are days when it’s messy, chaotic, and full of uncertainty. But those are the days that remind us we’re truly living. We’re feeling it all—the good, the bad, the beautiful, and the difficult—because we’re alive and engaged in what matters most.
What If It All Works Out?
Values-based living isn’t about having it all figured out or being fearless. It’s about being willing to feel discomfort in service of what matters. It’s about choosing actions that align with your values, even when your mind is screaming at you to play it safe.
We chose this life because it aligns with who we are and who we want to become. We chose to redefine success, to live authentically, and to show our kids that there’s more than one way to live a good life.
We chose to believe in the possibility that it could all work out.
What Matters Most to You?
This isn’t about RV life or travel. It’s about living in alignment with your values, whatever they are. So ask yourself: What matters most to you? Are you living according to those values, or are you playing it safe, waiting for the “right” time or the “perfect” plan?
Because here’s the truth: The right time never comes. But the opportunity to live your values is here, now, in this moment.
You just have to be willing to take the leap.
